0~»»«?»««C*~ 1 m THE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE FIEST SESSION OF THE FIFTY-FIRST CONGRESS. 1889-'90. Is" IN FORTY-SEVEN VOLUMES. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1891. INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. CONTENTS OF VOLUMES. VoL 1 . .Nos. 1 to 76, inclusive, except Nos. 4, 5, 6, 41, 44, and 45. Vol". 3"v« U Hellion .Records, VoL 24, parts VoL 4 Vol. 5 VoL 6 VoL 7 VoL 8 VoL 9 Vol. 10 Vol. 11 Vol. 12 Vol.13 Vol. 14 Vol.15 Vol. 16 Vol.17. Vol. 18. Vol. 19. Vol.20. VoL 21. Vol.22. Vol. 23. Vol. 24. .No. 44 ? Rebellion Records, VoL 25, parts .No. 45$ land 2. .Nos. 77 to 175, inclusive, except Nos. 105, 106, 146, 147, 148. .No. 105 ? Rebellion Records, VoL 26, parts .No. 106 5 land 2. -§°- }J5 \ Rebellion Records, VoL 27, parts ..No. 147 > i o nnj o .No. 148 5 1'2'and3- .No. 176, Tariff Hearings. .Nos. 177 to 260, inclusive, except Noa. 194, 211, 223, 224, 228, 229, 231, 232, 233, 234, 237, 238, 239, 240, 241, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247, 248. 249, 257. .No. 194, Monograph VoL 1, Geological Sur- vey. .Nos. 211 and 261, Fish Bulletins, etc. .No. 223, Rebellion Records, VoL 28, part 1. Jo! lit p£t 2 } SmithsonianR^port, 1889. .No. 228, Rebellion Records, Vol. 28, part 2. .Nos. 229, 243, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266. .No. 231, Consular Reports, 105 to 107$. VoL 25.. Nos. 232 and 233, Consular Reports 108 to 111, and index to vols. 18 to 31. VoL 26. .No. ?34, Consular Reports 112 to 115. VoL 27.. No. 237, Opinions of Attorneys-General, VoL 17. VoL 28.. No 238, Opinions of Attorneys-General, VoL 18. VoL 29.. No. 239, Opinions of Attorney-General, VoL Id. Vol. 30. .No. 240 ? Rebellion Records, VoL 29, parts Vol. 31.. No. 241 5 land 2. VoL 32.. No. 244, Bulletins 55-01 Geological Sur- vey. VoL 33.. No. 245) VoL 34. .No. 246 (Rebellion Records, VoL 30, parts Vol. 35. .No. 247 f 1, 2, 3, and 4. Vol. 36.. No. 248 J VoL 37.. No. 249, Monograph Vol. 16, Geological Survey. VoL 38. .No. 257, Observations, 1885. Vol. 39.. No. 267, Consular Reports 116 to 119. VoL 40. .No. 268, Special Consular Reports. VoL 41 . .No. 269, Fifth Report Entomological Com- mission. Vol. 42.. No. 270, Animal Industry, 1889-'90. Vol. 43. .No. 271, Hayden's Volume 13, Scudder. Vol. 44.. No. 272, part 1 ? American Ethnology, Vol. 45.. No. 272, part 25 VoL 2, Gatschet. Vol. 46. .No. 273, American Ethnology, Vol. 6. VoL 47. .No. 274, Fish and Fisheries, 1888. Subject. No. Vol. A. Alaska, report on the salmon aud salmon rivers of, etc 211 18 Resolution requesting the Secretary of the State to report to House all correspondence between the Government of the United States and foreign governments concerning the seizure of vessels, for violation of seal fisheries laws 54 1 Alfrey, A. H. , findings of the Court of Claims in case of 132 9 Allen, Lewis D., findings of Court of Claims in case of 34 1 Anderson, Anna M., and others, findings of Court of Claims in case of.. 78 9 Anderson, Allen E., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 16 Anderson, William H., findings of Court of Claims in case of 151 9 Appropriations, conference report on riverand harbor bill 250 16 Architect of the Capitol, letter from the, transmitting estimate of the cost of erecting a basement story under the National Museum 126 9 Arrears of Pensions, estimate of the probable cost of the repeal of the.. 196 16 A.skew, Allie V., administratrix, findings of Court of .Claims in case of.. 71 1 Attorneys-General of the United States: Official Opinions of (vol.17) 237 27 Official Opinions of (vol. 18) 238 28 Official Opinions of (vol. 19) 239 29 B. Badeaux, Ulger V., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 16 Bailey, J. J., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 212 16 Ballot-box forgery, resolution for appointment of committee to investi- gate alleged 27 1 Banks, Charles, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 216 16 Barksdale, Thomas M., findings of court of Claims in case of 40 1 ill 573594 IV INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. Subject. No. Beard, Daniel, administrator, findings of Court of Claims in case of 153 Beard, J. D., and others, resolution to refer claims to Court of Claims.. 175 Beard, J. D., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 212 Beauchamp, Stephen E., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims. .. 213 Belt, Alfred M., and others, findings of Court of Claims in case of 67 Billingslea, Walter R., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 Bishop, Clarissa, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 Blackiuan, M., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 Blue Book. (See Official Register.) Borders, William H., findings of Court of Claims in case of 36 Briant, Mrs. E. H., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 Brig Juno, findings of Court of Claims in case of 61 Brig Polly and brig Little Sam, findings of Court of Claims in cases of 74 Brooks, Moses, findings of the Court of Claims in case of 131 Brown, Thomas, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 Brown, Thomas J., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 235 Bryan, Ella, administratrix, findings of Court of -Claims in case of 98 Burditt, Augustus P., findings of Court of Claims in case of 236 Bureau of Labor, annual report of expenditures of 30 Burnett, Chesley, findings of Court of Claims in case of 93 Butler, Hannah B., administratrix, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 213 C. California, resolution of the Legislature relative to the improvement of the Sacramento, San Joaquin, and Feather Rivers 135 Canada, resolution relative to reciprocity with 195 Canada and United States, resolution relative to northwestern bound- ary between 253 Carlin, Mary, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 213 Carlin, Mary, heirs of and others, resolution to refer claims to Court of Claims 174 Carter, Robert, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 170 Chairs, Calvin, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 183 Chambers, Smiley N., resolution for appointment of a special committee to investigate the conduct of United States district attorney and others of the State of Indiana, in connection with charges against W. W. Dudley 47 Chinese laborers, resolution of inquiry relative to immigration of, from Canada and Mexico 202 Choice, J. H., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims _ . 171 Claims, list of, submitted to the Court of Claims under the Bowman Act 56 Clarke, Maria T., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 Clerk's office, House of Representatives: Report of expenditures by the Clerk of the House, on account of the, for 1889 13 Report of Clerk of House showing expenditures from July 1, 1889, to December 2, 1889 14 Inventory of public property in the possession of the 10 Cloud, A. M., administrator, findings of Court of Claims in case of 128 Coal. (See iron and manufacturers of.) Coleman, James E., findings of Court of Claims in case of 20 Columbia Institution for the Deaf and Dumb : Report of receipts and disbursements of .172 Columbian Centennial Exposition, resolutions relative to 254 Cornan, Broussais, findings of Court of Claims in case of 25 Commissioner of the Freedman's Savings and Trust Company, annual report of the 33 Commissioner of Labor : Annual report of, of expenditures of Bureau of Labor 30 Concurrent resolution authorizing the printing of additional copies • of the first and second annual reports of the 121 INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. Subject. No. Vol. Committees, list of standing and select, of House of Representatives, Fif'ty-firstCongress, first session 2 Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds. Resolution instructing the, to report as to the practicability of constructing an elevator at the main entrance of the Capitol 107 Committee on Ways and Means. Hearings before the 176 Congress, list of contests for seats in the Fifty-first 82 Con nell, Hiram D., and others, resolutions to refer claims to Court of Claims 259 Consular reports, 1889 : Volume 30 (Nos. 105 to 107*) '. 231 Volume 31 (Nos. 108 to 111 and index to vols. 18 to 31) • 232 Volume 32 (Nos. 112 to 115) 234 Volumes 18 to 31, index to 233 Contested seats, letter from Clerk of House of Representatives trans- mitting list of contests for seats in Fifty-first Congress 82 Corn, resolution instructing the Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries to investigate the subject of allowing subsidies to ships to pay each farmer for each bushel of, produced 140 Coulter, Charles, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 Court of Claims : List of claims submitted to the, under the Bowman Act 56 List of judgments rendered by the 9 Findings in cases of— Alfrey,A.H 132 Allen, Lewis D 34 Anderson, Anna M., and others 78 Anderson, William H 151 Askew, Allie V., administratrix 71 Barksdale, Thomas M 40 Beard, Daniel, administrator 153 Belt.Alfred M.,and others 67 Borders, William H 36 Brig Juno 61 Brig Polly and brig Little Sam 74 Brooks, Moses 131 Bryan, Ella, administratrix 98 Burditt, Augustus? 236 Burnett, Chesley 93 Cloud, A. M., administrator 128 Coleman, James S 20 Coman, Broussias 25 Davidson, William C 97 Davis, F. M. and JosiahE 29 Davis, George A., administrator 130 Davis, William G., administrator 94 Dooley, Mary J 141 Eakle,Elias 21 Eminert, Leonard Ill Experience, the brig 164 Flinn, James M I 169 Foltz, Samuel M I Gloyd, Jacob A. and Samuel S., executors 155 Gloyd, SamuelS 35 Grantham, Joseph .•. 80 Grantham, William J 108 Graves, Ann E., administratrix, etc 23 Gruber, Isaac, executor _ 149 Holloway, John G., executor of 177 Holt, Benjamin 129 Hopkins, John W 15 Hughey, Harrison H 189 Johnston, J. L 37 Jones, John T., and others 57 Keedy, Jacob H 91 Kenuey, Benjamin 188 VI INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. Subject. No. Court of Claims— Continued. Findings in cases of: Kilmer, Robert and Dennis 22 Kimbrough, John W., administrator .. 39 Knuckolls, William 95 Leary, John S. and MathewM.Jr 90 Lovell, Albert G., executor 154 McDonald, Roberts 187 McGhee, John B 58 Mclnty re, Patrick ., 204 Marr, Duncan 90 Marsh,. Samuel 81 Metteallary, E 137 Miller,Lydia 85 Montgomery, R. W., guardian 38 Moore, William F 143 Mullett, Alfred B 218 Murdock, John 110 Newcomer, Victor H., executor 16 Osborne, John 117 Owens. William, administrator, and others 68 Pamais, Pierre, administrator 127* Parker, William C., administrator 208 Poffinberger, Alfred 19 Posey, William P 109 Prewitt,M.W. and J K. Gates, executors 102 Priddy, Piety 100 Reaves, John R., administrator 89 Reilly, Betty B 65 Resley, James 156 Robinson, J. W.B., administrator 186 Robinson, William 120 Rogers, Benjamin P 217 Rogers, Melinda 92 Routzahan, Herman L., administrator 112 Rouzer, Reuben ., 151 St. Amand, Joseph, executor 150 Salmon, Robert D., and others 7 62 Schooner Commerce 60 Shiner, William 17 Shreve, Charles W 79 Sloops Union and Packet 66 Smith, John Hoffman....*. 118 Sneuffer,A.T 59 Snively, Hiram B., executor 154 Spoliation claims 69 Stewart, Thomas 26 Sydenstricker, Mary 18 Tearney, Ed ward, administrator, and others 70 Thurman, Oliver M 16! Tilghman, Hilliary, jr 24 Travis, W.C.M 179 Vietch, Fletcher R., and others 139 Wade, Watson J., administrator 94 Walters, Luther 84 Ward, Enoch P'. 210 Webber,W.R 101 Wood,CharlesW " 63 Wording,CharlesH 7 Wyndham, Thornton O 64 Resolution to refer claims to — Claims of— Badeaux,Ulger V., and others 214 Banks, Charles 216 Beard, J.D., and others j 212 INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. VII Subject. No. Vol. Court of Claims— Continued. Resolution to refer claims to — Claims of— Brown, Thomas J 235 Carlin, Mary, and others < £13 Carter, Robert 170 Chairs, Calvin 183 Choice, J.H 171 Connell, Hiram D., and others -.. 259 Dowdy, LucyE 183 Farrar, C., administrator 183 Galloway, W. A 183 Gibson,William F 226 Goude, Charles F., and others 203 Greer,J.S.O.G., and others 242 Haigh.A. V 235 Henkel, Philip 201 Hobbs, Thomas M., and others 205 Hundley, William T 192 Judkins, James H. and William T 116 McElmore, Sarah C., administrator 183 Meath, Patrick G 256 Moore, Stephen, administrator 225 Morat, L. F 183 Parham,R.H., administrator 183 Rice, Jamison W.,and others 258 Richmond, Charles, children of 200 St. Charles College, of St. Charlea, Mo 220 SuavS, Peter 251 Tomlinson, E. G., administrator 183 Urquhart, C. Aagusta, and others 221 Vallean, Sarah J., and others 215 Vance, George T. and Guy P., executors 167 Courts of the United States, substitute for resolution to investigate the practice of certain district, and other officers in criminal cases.. 124 Cox, Samuel Sullivan, eulogies upon. Death of 243 Davidson, William C., findings of Court of Claims in case of 97 Davis, F. M. and Josiah E., findings of Court of Claims in case of 29 Davis, George A. , administrator, findings of Court of Claims in case of. . 130 Davis, William G., administrator, findings of Court of Claims in case of. 99 Dent, Warren R., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 Department of Agriculture, bibliography of important contributions to American economic entomology, prepared by the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture 133 Di Brazza, Cora A., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 221 Disabled Volunteer Soldiers, letter from the president of board of mana- gers National Home for, submitting deficitsncy estimate in appropria- tions for expenses of disabled soldiers in State Homes 48 District of Columbia: Resolution to print 500 extra copies of the report of the health offi- cer of 166 Report relati ve to fast dri ving, etc. , in the streets 209 Rock Creek Park, assessed valuation of property within bounds of. 184 Document room, House of Representatives, resolution for necessary shelving lor the _ 181 Dooley, Mary J., findings of the Court of Claims in the case of 141 Doorkeeper, House of Representatives : Report from the, of sales of waste paper 11 List of public property in possession of 12 Dougherty, Mary A., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 212 Dowdy, Lucy E., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 183 Dudley, William W., resolution for appointment of a special committee to investigate the official conduct of Smiley N. Chambers, U. S. dis- trict attorney, and others of the State of Indiana, in connection with charges against... ,, . 47 VIII INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. Subject. No. E. Eakle, Elias, findings of Court of Claims in ease of 21 Elevator at main entrance of Capitol, resolution instructing Committee on Public Buildings and Grounds to report upon the practicability of constructing 107 Eleventh census, resolution of inquiry relating to the 46 Emmert, Leonard, findings of Court of Claims in case of Ill Entomology, bibliography of important contributions to American economic 133 Eulogies upon death of: Samuel Sullivan Cox '243 William D. Kelly 229 Executive Departments, disposition of useless papers in the 207 Resolution relative to telephones in 180 Experience, the brig, findings of the Court of Claims in case of 164 F. Fagot, Emilie, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 213 Farrar, C. C., administrator, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 188 Panic-oner, John H., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 220 Fifteen-cent silver coin, petition in favor of the coinage of a 104 Flinn, James M., findings of Court of Claims in case of 169 Folding room, House of Representatives, list of public documents in the. 8 Foltz, Samuel M., findings of Court of Claims in caseof 86 Fort Douglas, Utah, resolution relative to military reservation at 173 Freedinan's Savings and Trust Company, annual report of the commis- sioner of the 33 Fuller, Chief Justice, address of, inauguration of George Washington as the first President of the United States , 168 G. Galland, Washington, resolution requesting appropriation to pay claim of 191 Galloway, W. A., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 183 Garrett, W. T., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 Geological Survey : Monograph (vol. 1) 194 Monograph (vol. 16) 249 Bulletins Nos. 55-61 244 Georgetown and Tennallytown Railway Company, statement of the con- dition of the,foryear 1889 125 Gibson, William F., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 226 Gloyd, Jacob A. and Samuel S., executors, findings of Court of Claims in case of 155 Gloyd, Samuel S., findings of Court of Claims in caseof 25 Goodrich, E. A. and M. E., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims. 213 Goude, Charles F. and others, resolution to refer claims of to Court of of Claims 203 Grantham, Joseph, findings of Court of Claims in case of 80 Grautham, William J., findings of Court of Claims in case of 108 Graves, Ann E., administratrix, etc., findings of Court of Claims iu case of 23 Great Britain and Mexico, resolution relating to negotiations with 198 Greer, J. S. O. G. and others, resolution to refer claims to Court of Claims 242 Gruber, Isaac, executor, findings of Court of Claims in case of 149 H. Haigh, A. V., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 235 Hartlove, Wesley, heirs of, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 221 Henkel, Philip, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 201 INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. IX Subject. Higgins, Richard, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 212 16 Hill, Joshua, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 16 Hobbs, Thomas M. and others, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 205 16 Holland, Mrs. Mattie S., resolution to refer claim of, to Secretary of War 206 16 Holloway, John G., executors of, findings of Conrt of Claims in case of .. 177 16 Holt, Benjamin, findings of Court of Claims in case of 129 9 Holt, John M., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 16 Hopkins, John W., findings of Court of Claims in case of 15 1 House of Representatives : Alphabetical list of Members and Delegates and committees of which they are members 3 1 List of Members arranged by States 1 1 List of standing and select committees 2 1 Report of expenditures by Clerk of, for 1889 $ Jj| j 1 Report of public property in possession of the Clerk of 10 1 Rules of the, proposed by Committee on Rules 87 9 Code of rules of the, as reported by Committee on Rules and ordered printed 88 9 Resolution for appointment of committee to investigate alleged forgery of ballot-box contract 27 1 Resolution of inquiry relating to the Eleventh Census. 46 1 Resolution to pay Harry B. Keffer as messenger in 178 16 Resolution to print annual message of the President 28 1 Resolution for amendment of the rules of the, in respect to appro- priations 32 1 Resolution to provide additional shelving for document room 181 16 Resolution authorizing the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House to offer a reward for the arrest of Craven E. Silcott, absconding cashier of late Sergeant-at-Arms 31 1 Hnghey, Harrison H., findings of Court of Claims in case of 189 16 Hundley, William T., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 192 16 I. Immigration: Concurrent resolution instructing the Senate Committee on Immi- gration and House Committee on Immigration and Naturalization to investigate jointly the subject of 103 9 Resolution of inquiry relative to Chinese 202 16 Import duties : Resolution Iowa legislature relative to placing on the free list jute and sisal grass 190 16 Resolution relative to duty on lead ores 42 1 Hearings before the Committee on Ways and Means 176 15 Petition of proprietors of woolen manufactories in relation to duties on wool 49 1 Petition of Jesse Metcalf and others for removal of duties on raw wool 52 1 International arbitration, concurrent resolution to invite, as to differ- ences between nations 113 9 International Marine Conference, concurrent resolution to print the pro- ceedings and final acts of the 119 9 Interstate Commerce Commission, annual report of the 50 1 Iowa: Memorial of legislature in favor of a law compelling the nse of auto- matic couplers and automatic air brakes by railroads on freight trains 142 9 Resolution of legislature of, relative to Hennepin Canal 157 9 Resolution of Iowa legislature relative to arrears of pensions 158 9 I 159 9 Resolutions of the legislature of, relative to adulteration of lard. {160 9 I 163 9 Resolution of the legislature of, to place iute and sisal grass on the free list. 190 16 No. Vol. INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. Subject. No. Iron and manufactures of, preliminary report on the cost of production of pig-iron, steel ingots, steel rails, coal, coke, iron ore, and limestone. J. 222 Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Halifax River Railway Company, re- port of Chief of Engineers in relation to bill (H. R. 5972) granting right of way to the, across St. Augustine military reservation 136 Jeffrey, Rosa Vertner, reference of claim to Secretary of War 227 Johnson, Fannie T., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 Johnston, J. L. (guardian), findings of Court of Claims in case of 37 Jones, John T., and others, findings of Court of Claims in case of 57 Judgments, list of, rendered by the Court of Claims 9 Judkins, James H. and William T., resolution referring claim of, to Court of Claims Jute and sisal grass. See Import duties. K. Keedy, Jacob H., findings of Court of Claims in case of 91 Keegan, Mary E., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 Keffer, Harry B., resolution relative to salary of 178 Kelley, William D., eulogies upon death of 229 Kenney, Benjamin, findings of Court of Claims in case of 188 Kennedy, Lenora J., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 Kilmer, Robert and Dennis, findings of Court of Claims in case of 22 Kimbrough, John W., administrator, findings of Court of Claims in case of Knuckolls, William, findings of Court of Claims in case of 95 L. / i rq Lard, concurrent resolutions of Iowa legislature relative to adulter- > ation of } 163 Lannaux, Adele, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 213 Lawrence, L. J., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 Lead ores, resolution relative to duty on 42 Leary, John S. and Mathew N., jr., findings of Court of Claims in case of 90 Ledett, Henry E., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 Leedom, J. P., testimony in relation to the investigation of the office of Sergeant-at-Arms under 55 Leedom, John P., preamble and resolution relating to sums of money due from, to members of the House 73 Leiper, John, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 Letter carriers, resolution relative to increase in pay of 197 Light-house, Detroit River, letter from the Secretary of the Treasury declining to recommend an appropriation for 138 Long, Henry W., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims Lovell, Albert G., executor, findings of Court of Claims in case of 154 M. . McDonald, Robert S., findings of Court of Claims in case of 187 McElmore, Sarah C., administrator, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 183 McGhee, John B., findings of Court of Claims in case of 58 Mclntyre, Patrick, findings of Court of Claims in case of 204 Mclntosh, Janet, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 213 Marr, Duncan, findings of Court of Claims in case of 96 Marsh, Samuel, findings of Court of Claims in case of 81 Massachusetts, resolution of legislature of, relative to guard-rails on top of box and stock freight cars 185 Massich, Francis, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 213 Meat products, resolution relative to transportation and sale of 199 INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. XI Subject. No. Vol. Meath, Patrick G., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 256 16 Mexico and Great Britain, resolution relative to negotiations with 198 16 Mette, Mary E. , findings of the Court of Claims in the case of 137 9 Members and Delegates of the House of Representatives, alphabetical list of . 3 1 Miller, Lydia, findings of Court of Claims in case of 85 9 Mineral resources of the United States, statistical report of, for 1888.. . 230 16 Mississippi, memorial of legislature in favor of compelling railroads to equip their cars with automatic couplers and power automatic brakes. 145 9 Mottatt, Hon. Seth C., response of Public Printer to resolution of House relative to the delay in printing eulogies on 83 9 Monahan, Mary E., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 212 16 M outgomery , R.W., administrator, findings of Court of Claims in case of. 38 1 Moore, Stephen, administrator of William Hopper, deceased, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 225 16 Moore, William F., findings of the Court of Claims in the case of 143 9 Morat, L. P. , resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 183 16 Mullett, Alfred B., findings of Court of Claims in case of 218 16 Mnrdock, John, findings of Court of Claims in case of 110 9 N. National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers: Estimate of president of board of managers of the, of deficiency in appropriations for expenses of disabled soldiers in State Homes.. 48 1 Report of board of managers of the, for year 1889 77 9 National Museum, estimate of Architect of the Capitol of the cost of erecting a baseement story under the 126 9 National Museum and North American Ethnology, report of the Secre- tary of Smithsonian Institution of expenditures for international exchanges for v 43 1 Newcomer, Victor H., executor, findings of Court of Claims in case of.. 16 1 O. Officers of United States district courts, substitute for resolution to in- vestigate the practices of 124 9 Official register of the United States, containing list of officers ) pp . ., , 41 and employe's in the civil, military, and naval service on > *- 'ion < Ott'utt, George C., administrator, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 16 Ogdeu, Utah T., memorial of the governor and legislature in favor of an appropriation for public building at 144 9 Ohio River, etc., resolution relative to obstruction to navigation in 260 16 Oklahoma, resolution for appointment of select committee to investigate the action of United States officers in connection with the opening of theTerritory of 123 9 Osborne, John, findings of Court of Claims in case of 117 9 Owens, William, and others, findings of Court of Claims in cases of 68 1 P. Pamais, Pierre, administrator, findings of Court of Claims in case of... run-American Congress, concurrent resolution requesting the President to invite the king of the Hawaiian Islands to select delegates to the. Parham, R. H., administrator, resalution to refer claim to Court of Claims ,. Parker, William C., findings of Court of Claims in case of Pensions: Arrears, estimate of the probable cost of the repeal of arrears lim- it at ion Arrears of, resolution of Iowa legislature to repeal limitation clause. Resolution calling upon the Secretary of the Interior for certain in- formation in relation to... 127 114 183 208 196 158 122 9 9 10 10 XII INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. Subject. Pension Office, resolution requesting the Secretary of the Interior to furnish the House with the evidence taken by the committee to in- vestigate the management of the, under the late Commissioner Tanner. Pig Iron. (See Iron.) Poffinberger, Alfred, findings of Court of Claims in case of Posey, William P., findings of Court of Claims in case of Postal service, resolution relative to increase pay of letter carriers Powell, Sarah E., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims President of the United States: Resolution to print annual message of Concurrent resolution requesting the, to invite the King of the Hawai i an Islands to select delegates to the Pan-American Congress . Prewitt, M. W., and J. K. Gates, executors, findings of the Court of Claims in case of Priddy, Piety, findings of Court of Claims in case of Public Buildings : Ogden, Utah T., memorial of the governor and legislature, in favor of an appropriation for , Salt Lake City, UtahT., memorial of the governor and legislature of the Territory of Utah, in relation to appropriation for Public documents : List of, in folding-room of the House of Representatives Resolution to print extra copies of report of health officer of the District of Columbia.. Resolution to print annual message of the President Resolution to print 5,000 additional copies of the report of the gov- ernor of Wyoming Territory for 1889 Public officers, list of annual reports to be made by, during the first session of the Fifty-first Congress Public Printer: Response of the, to inquiry of House relative to the delay in printing eulogies on the late Hon. Seth C. Moffatt Response to resolution of House requesting information respecting the delay in printing the report of Chief of Engineers relating to the improvement of rivers and harbors Public property : Inventory of, in the possession of the Clerk of the House of Rep- resentatives List of, in possession of the Doorkeeper of the House of Repre- sentatives R. Railroads : Memorial of the legislature of Iowa in favor of a law compelling the use of automatic couplers and air brakes on freight trains Resolution of legislature of Massachusetts relative to guard rails on top of box and stock freight cars Memorial of the legislature of Mississippi ou the subject of the adop- tion and use of automatic couplers and power automatic brakes on Statement of the Georgetown and Tennallytown Railway Company for year 1889 Railway Mail Service, report of the General Superintendent of the, urging passage of bill for the reclassifi cation of postal clerks Reaves, John R., administrator, findings of Court of Claims in case of.. Rebecca, resolution relative to the seizure of the schooner Reciprocity treaties, resolution relative to Reciprocity with Canada, resolution relative to Reilly, Betty B., findings of Court of Claims in case of Reports, list of, to be made to Congress during the first session of the Fifty-first Congress Revision of the tariff, hearings before the Committee on Ways and Means Rice, Jamison W., and others, resolution to refer claims to Court of Claims INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. XIII Subject. No. Vol. Resley, James, findings of Court of Claims in case of 156 9 Richmond, Charles, children of, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 200 16 Rivers and harbors : Conference report on appropriation bill 250 16 Response of Public Printer to resolution of House inquiring in re- lation to the delay in pritting the report of the Chief of Engi- neers relating to improvement of '. 75 1 Resolution relative to obstructions to navigation in the Ohio River, etc 260 16 Resolution of Iowa legislature asking liberal appropriations for con- struction of the Heunepin Canal 157 9 Robinson, J. W. B., administrator, findings of Court of Claims in case of 186 16 Robinson, William, findings of Court of Claims in case of 120 9 Rock Creek Park, assessed valuation of property within bounds of 184 16 Rogers, Benjamin P., findings of Court of Claims in case of 217 16 Rogers, Melinda, administratrix, findings of Court of Claims in case of. . 92 9 Routzahn, Herman S. administrator, findings of the Court of Claims in case of 112 9 Rouzee, Reuben, findings of Court of Claims in case of 152 9 Ruebling, Adam, representatives of, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 220 16 Rules of House of Representatives : Resol utioii for amendment of the, in respect to appropriations 32 1 Code of, as reported by Committee on Rales and ordered to be printed 88 9 Code of, proposed by Committee on Rules 87 9 S. Sacramento, San Joaquin and Feather Rivers, California, resolution of the legislature of California relative to the improvement of 135 9 St. Augustine military reservation, report of Chief of Engineers in re- lation to bill (H. R. 5972), granting right of way to the Jacksonville, St. Augustine and Halifax River Railway Campany across the 136 9 St. Amand, Joseph, executor, findings of Court of Claims in case of.... 150 9 St. Charles College, of St. Charles, Mo., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 220 16 Salmon and salmon rivers of Alaska, report on 211 18 Salmon, Robert D., and others, findings of Court of Claims in case of .. 62 1 Salt Lake City, Utah, memorial of the governor and legislature of the Territory of Utah, protesting against reduction of the amount hereto- fore asked for public building at 134 9 Sanderson, W. F., administrator, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 213 16 Schooner Commerce, findings of Court, of Claims in case of 60 1 Scott, William E. , resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 16 Seal fisheries, resolution requesting the Secretary of State to report to House all correspondence relating to seizure of vessels for violation of laws regulating the 54 1 Secretary of the Interior, resolution calling upon the, for certain infor- mation touching matters 122 9 Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, letter from the, transmitting report of the Zoological Park Commission 72 1 Secretary of State, resolution requesting the, to transmit to House copies of papers, relative to damage claim of S. F. Tolsma 53 1 Secretary of the Treasury, communications from, light-house, Detroit River, declining to recommend an appropriation for 138 9 Sergeant-at-Arms, House of Representatives : Resolution authorizing the, to offer a reward for the arrest of Craven E. Silcott, absconding cashier of the late 31 1 Testimony in relation to the investigation of the office of, under J. P. Leedom, late ., 55 1 Preamble and resolution relative to sums of money due to certain members of the House by John P. Leedom, late 73 1 Shifler, William, findings of Court of Claims in case of 17 1 Shre ve, Charles W., findings of Court of Claims in case of 79 9 XIV INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. Subject. No. Silcott, Craven E., resolution authorizing the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House to offer a reward for the arrest of, absconding cashier of the late Sergeant-at-Arms 31 Slave trade in Africa, memorial of Indiana "Friends," asking co- operation against 255 Sloops Union and Packet, findings of Court of Claims in case 66 Smith, John Hoffman, findings of Court of Claims in case of 118 Smithsonian Institution : Annual Report for 1889, part 1 224 Annual Report for 1889, part 2 (National Museum) 224 Report of the Secretary of the, of expenditures for "International exchanges for National Museum and North American Ethnology " 43 Snively, Hiram B., executor, findings of Court of Claims in case of 154 Spelling, resolution directing the Public Printer to adopt short method of 76 Snoliation claims, findings of Court of Claims in certain cases of 69 Sneuffer, A. T. , findings of Court of Claims in case of 59 Steel ingots. (See Iron and manufactures of.) Stewart, Thomas, findings of Court of Claims in case of 26 Stowers, Mary A. and Samuel, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 212 Suave", Peter, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 251 Subsidies, resolution instructing the Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries to report on the subject of granting, to ships, to pay each farmer for each bushel of corn produced 140 Sydenstricker, Mary, findings of Court of Claims in case of 18 T. Tanner, late Commissioner of Pensions, resolution requesting the Secretary of the Interior to furnish the House with evidence taken by the committee to investigate the management of the Pension Office under 51 Tearney, Edward, administrator, and others, findings of Court of Claims in cases of _. 70 Telephones, resolution relative to, in Executive Departments..... 180 Thurman, Oliver M., findingsof Court of Claims in case of 162 Tilghman, Hilliary, jr., findings of Court of Claims in case of 24 Tolsma, S. F., resolution requesting the Secretary of State to transmit copies of papers relative to damage claim of 53 Tomlinson, E. G., administrator, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 183 Travis, W. C. M. , findings of Court of Claims in case of 179 Trotter, Nathan, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 Tucker, T. M., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 214 U. Union Pacific Railroad, resolution in reference to the lands of the 252 Urquhart, C. Augusta, and others, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 221 V. Vallean, Sarah J., resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 Vance, George T. and Guy P., executors, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 167 Veitch, Fletcher R., and others, findings of the Court of Claims in the case of 139 Vignes Polona, resolution to refer claim to Court of Claims 215 W. Wade, Watson J., administrator, findings of Court of Claims in case of. 94 Walten, Luther, findings of Court of Claims in case of 84 INDEX TO HOUSE MISCELLANEOUS DOCUMENTS. XV Subject. No. Vol. War of the Rebellion, official records of: Series 1, vol. 24,partl 4 2 Series l.vol. 24, part 2 5 3 Series l,vol. 24, part 3 6 4 Series l,voL 25,partl 44 7 Series 1, vol. 25,part2 45 8 Series l,vol. 26, part 1 105 10 Series 1, vol. 26,part2 106 11 Series l,vol. 27, part 1 146 12 Series 1, vol. 27,part2 147 13 Series 1, vol. 27, part 3 148 14 Series 1, vol. 28,partl 223 19 Series 1, vol. 28, part 2 228 22 Series 1, vol. 29, part 1 240 30 Series 1, vol. 29, part 2 241 31 Series l,vol. SO.part 1 245 33 Series 1, vol. 30,part2 246 34 Series 1, vol. 30, part 3 247 35 Series 1, vol. 30,part4 248 36 Ward, Enoch P., findings of Court of Claims in case of 210 16 Washington and Georgetown Railroad Company, annual report of 161 9 Washington, George, address of Chief Justice Fuller in commemoration of the inauguration of 168 9 Waste paper, report from the Doorkeeper of the House of Representa- tives of sales of 11 1 Ways and Means, hearings before the Committee on 176 15 Webber, W. R. , administrator, findings of Court of Claims in case of. . 101 9 Wood, Charles W., findings of Court of Claims in case of 63 1 Wool: Petition of manufacturers relative to the duty on 49 1 Petition of Jesse Metcalf and others, for the removal of duties on raw 52 1 Wording, Charles H., findings of Court of Claims in case of 7 1 Wyndham, Thornton O., findings of Court of Claims in .case of 64 1 Wyoming, resolution to print 5,000 additional copies of the report of the governor of, for 1889 182 16 z. Zoological Park Commission, report of the 72 1 51ST CONGRESS, ) HOUSE OF EEPRESENTATIVES. i Mis. Doc. 1st Session. ] \ Xo. 268. SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. Volume I. ARRANGEMENT. Page. 1. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES 1-238 2. FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA 239-268 3. CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. . 269-324 4. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA 325-390 5. FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES 39I-937 WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1890. REPORTS. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. REPORTS, FROM THE CONSULS OF THE UNITED STATES, ON THE COTTON TEXTILES IMPORTED INTO THEIR SEVERAL DISTRICTS, ETC. I>SI-ED FROM THE BUREAU OF STATISTICS, DEPARTMENT OF STATE. ALL REQUESTS FOR THESE REPORTS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1890. CONTENTS. CONTINENT OF AFRICA. Page. British Africa : Cape Colony 5-7 Sierra Leone 8-10 Kgy pt 16 Liberia 11 Morocco 11 Portuguese Africa : Cape Verde Islands 12 Madeira 12 St. Paul de Londa 13 Zanzibar 14 CONTINENT OF AMERICA. British North America: Gray Cotton Manufactures of Canada 15, 16 British Columbia 17-19 Ontario : Fort Erie 19 Nova Scotia : Windsor 20,21 Newfoundland: St. John's 22 Quebec : Quebec 22, 23 Prince Edward Island 24-27 Mexico : GuayimiH 28, 29 Talcahnano 29-31 Central America : Costa Rica 31,32 Guatemala 33,34 Salvador 34,35 South America: Argentine Republic 36-44 Brazil: Bahia 44-51 Para 51 Pernambuco • 51, 52 Rio Grande do Sul 53-56 British Guiana 56, 57 Dutch Guiana ">7 Chili 58 Peru 59 608A 1 i II CONTENTS. Page. South America— Continued. Republic of Colombia : Barranquilla 59-62 Carthagena - 62-64 • Panama ...-, , 65-67 Venezuela : La Guayra 67, Ik* Puerto Cabello 69-72 West Indies: British. West Indies : Antigua 73 Anguilla 74 Bahamas 75-77 Bermuda 77 Dominica 78 Jamaica 78-81 Danish West Indies 81,82 French West Indies 83-85 San Domingo 85, 86 Spanish West Indies: Cienfngos 86,87 Santiago j 88-95 CONTINENT OF ASIA. British Asia : British India : Calcutta 95-126 Bombay .. 127-129 Ceylon 129 Hong-Kong 133 China: Ohin-Kiang 130 Foo-Chow 130-133 Ningpo 134-136 Province of Kwang-Tung (Canton) 136-141 Shanghai 141-145 Siam 145,140 Spanish Asia : Philippine Islands : 146-152 Turkey in Asia : 'Palestine fc 153 Syria 154-159 AUSTRALASIA. Fiji 159,160 New Zealand 160-162 New South Wales 163-168 CONTINENT OF EUROPE. Austria- Hungary (Trieste) 169, 170 Denmark 171,172 Belgium (Antwerp) 173-176 France : Havre 176 M arseilles . 176-179 CONTENTS. Ill Germany : Hamburg ............................................................. 179-181 Sr.ttin ............................................................... 181,182 Holland ................. . ...... . .................... ..................... 183-185 Italy (Rome and all Italy) ................................................ 185-199 Catania ................................................... ......... 199-202 Florence: .............................................................. 202-205 Genoa ........... ..................................................... 206-208 M.-ssiua .............................................................. 208-211 Naples ................................................................ 211-218 Palermo .............................................................. 218,219 Venice ............................................................... 220 Portugal: Azores ............................................................... 221,222 Lisbon ............ ................................................... 223,224 Spain ..................................................................... 224-231 Switzerland .............................................................. 232-234 United Kingdom : London ............................................................. 235 Li verpool ............................................................. 235 Leith ............................................................... 236 Gibraltar.. 236 DEPARTMENT CIRCULAR. DEPARTMENT OF STATE, Washington, May 27, 1889. GENTLEMEN : You are directed to prepare, at your earliest conven- ience, reports upon the cotton textiles imported into your districts, covering the following points : 1. Quantity and kind imported, per annum. 2. Weight per yard. 3. How purchased. 4. Place of manufacture and whence imported. 5. Duties charged thereon. It being represented to the Department that reports upon these points will be of great value to the cotton manufacturers of the United States, you are expected to give the fullest information thereupon ob- tainable. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant, WILLIAM F. WHARTON, Assistant Secretary. The CONSULAR OFFICERS OF THE UNITED STATES. 3 SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. CONTINENT OF AFRICA. BRITISH AFRICA. CAPE COLONY. REPORT BY CONSUL HOLLIS. Having given much time and attention to this subject, as directed in the circular of the Department of May 27, 1 regret exceedingly that the report submitted is so unsatisfactory. QUANTITY AND KIND IMPORTED PER ANNUM. During the year 1888 there was imported into this colony cotton text- iles to the value of £543,888 ($2,647,000), distributed as follows : Blankets £75,500 Piece goods 368,088 Hosiery 100,300 WEIGHT PER YARD. To this question I am unable to give any satisfactory reply, for the reason that no weight is shown or indicated upon the cotton goods im- ported from the United Kingdom, and therefore to determine the weight it would be necessary to weigh each bale of the various kinds and qual- ities and thus calculate the weight per yard, a procedure manifestly out of the question. Importers informed me that they paid no attention to the weight, as that could be much affected by sizing, and their opinions of the value of goods was based entirely on the evidence of examina- tion. HOW PURCHASED. Goods are purchased almost entirely through commission houses either after an inspection of samples, or, more generally, by ordering well known goods, such as had been previously furnished. TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE AND WHENCE IMPORTED. The places of manufacture were as follows: Piece goods : United Kingdom £367,642 Germany 200 United States ; 246 Blankets : United Kingdom 75,000 All other countries 500 Hosiery : United Kingdom 100,000 All other countries * 300 DUTIES CHARGED THEREON. The value of the goods imported are declared at the customs at the cost price at the place of purchase, with the addition of the usual charges, commissions, etc., as in the United States, and a duty is levied thereon, 12 per cent, ad valorem. Some four or five years ago no inconsiderable amount of cotton goods was sold here, the product of the United States. At the present time it will be seen that a relatively small amount is imported from the United States. One importer informed me that he was forced to dispose of the last of his stock of unbleached goods at a loss. One of the largest im-' porters of cotton goods in Gape Town informed me that he had recently; gone so far as to get out samples of nearly all descriptions of cotton fabrics, such as duck, denims, bleached and unbleached cottons, cotton-' ades, and prints, and had established his private telegraph code. Upon comparing his line of samples with his goods in stock of English manu- facture he came to the conclusion that he could get better value by the purchase of the latter. I made an exhaustive examination of the sam- ples, comparing them with like quality of English goods. I could not, of course, argue the question as an expert, and, though the admission was made that the American goods were of high quality, they could not compete in price with the English. . These samples were furnished by a New York commission house, and embraced the product of many mills, from Maine to Georgia. Whether the prices quoted were unduly enhanced by excessive cominissioifrcharges I have no means of knowing. GEO. F. HOLLIS, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Consul. Cape Town, July, 1889. PORT ELIZABETH. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT CHABAUD. 1. It is impossible to give quantity — the Government, as will be seen from annexure A (customs comparative returns), only give the value — to wit, for the year 1888, £230,360, and keep no record of quantity or kind. From the principal importing merchant of cotton goods in this COTTON TEXTILES IN FORKIGX COUNTRIES. 7 town I have ascertained that the kinds imported are cords, calicoes (gray and white), prints, blankets for natives, in short, cotton fabrics of all descriptions. 2. Can not give weights. Manufacturers alone can give this. 3. Indent sent from here to London house who negotiate. 4. Great Britain and Germany supply the goods. Larger quantity from Manchester. A small proportion of colored prints from Germany. 5. The imported goods are simply declared at the local customs at English cost. The duty payable thereon to 30th June 1889, was 15 per cent, ad valorem. From 1st July 1889, this duty has been reduced to 12 per cent, ad valorem. I annex pro forma bill of entry B, applicable to an entry for such goods. JOHN A. CHABAUD, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Port Elizabeth, July 24, 1889. B. — Pro forma bill of entry. — For payment of duty. [Sadler & Co., importers, in the steam-ship Garth Cattle, whereof Webster is master, from London, British ship.] Nos. pack- ages. Particulars of the quality and quantity of al tained in the several packages, and whether the produce or manufacture of the United some British possession or not. the goods con- such goods are Kingdom, or of Quan- tity. Current value of goods at the jortwhence imported. Duty. 39i Cotton piece goods bales 3 £ 86 £ ». d. 394 Woolen piece goods . ... . . do. 1 34 395 do cases 1 53 396-8 Haberdashery do 3 104 399 Oil-baize do 1 3 400-1 Haberdashery do 2 46 402 Wrapping paper ..... .. bales 1 2 403-6 do 4 2t> 0 407 Mats . do 1 3 0 408 Woolen clothing cases 1 23 0 409 Cotton clothing do.. 1 25 0 410 Woolen clothing do 1 24 0 Charges 1 0 Wharfage, £1 13*. lid. 430 0 21 10 Total 20 451 10 67 14 8 I, E. G. Palmer, for Sadler 88. I Description : (1) Gray or unbleached cottons. <2) White cottons, such as shirtings, etc. (3) Blue balta. (4) Striped or printed cottons. Years. Quantity. Value. Tears. Quantity. Value. 1879 Package*. 6 086 £ 8. d. 156 097 2 8 1886 Packages. 4 068 SL ». d. 93 621 14 7 1880 6 959 179 539 16 8 1887 7 368 143 411 18 0 1881 6,540 153 404 10 3 1888 4 584 88 713 12 7 1882 6 634 161 599 8 11 1883 8 461 194 537 4 4 1884 7 264 171 936 9 7 62 723 1 447 970 IS 3 1885 4 759 105 108 9 8 6* 272* 144 797 1 3 Duty is not levied on cotton goods by quantity. By ordinance No. 13, of December 30, 1887, cotton goods are made subject to an ad val- orem duty of 5 per cent, in addition to wharfage duty at the rate of 10s. per ton. 10 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Measurement or weight, whichever mode of computation shall in each case be capable of yielding the larger wharfage duties. The falling offin both quantity and value in 1883 is owing to a larger importation about the close of 1887 to escape the new duties in pros- pective. CORNS. MAY, Vice- Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Sierra Leone, October 16, 1889. EGYPT. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL SCHUYLER, OF CAIRO. The trade in foreign cotton textiles is almost entirely in the hands of British importing houses at Alexandria, who are very jealous of com- petition. I had hoped to obtain some information from a friend con- nected with one of these merchants, but he had at last to confess to me his inability to give me what I wished, as he was " flouted and jeered at, and accused of being unpatriotic, and of taking part in the con- spiracy to substitute American for British goods in the Egyptian market.*7 EUGENE SCHUYLER, Consul- General. UNITED STATES AGENCY AND CONSULATE-GENERAL, Cairo, November 29, 1889. Note by the Department : The exports of British cottons to Egypt were as follows during the year 1888 : Description. Quantity. Value. Price. pounds. . 4, 499, 000 $890, 000 Cents. per lb., 19.78 Piece goods, unbleached yards.. „. yards 55, 621, 000 46, 800, 000 2, 072, 000 2, 265, 000 per yd., 3.73 per yd*, 4.84 Piece goods! printed and dyed yards.. 19, 956. 705 1, 429, 000 37, 000 per\d., 7.16 All other 243 000 J Total 6 930 000 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 11 LIBERIA. REPORT XY CONSUL-GENERAL SMITH, <>F MONROVIA. COTTON TEXTILES IMPORTED INTO LIBERIA. (1) During the fiscal year ending September 30, 1885, there were iin- pcwted into the Republic 971,615 yards of cotton textiles, valued at $73,114.08, of which there were imported from — Countries. Quantity. Value. Great Britain ... . ... - Yards. 420 840 $38 40? 53 218 659 17 353 51 United States 56 744 3 643 29 Holland . 175 372 13 714 75 Total . 73 114 08 In 1886 the total imports from the above-mentioned countries, and from Belgium, amounted to 923,289 yards of cotton textiles valued at $71,201.40. These years may be taken as fair sample years of the im- port of cotton textiles, comprising the following kinds of cotton goods : Printed calicoes, shirtings, sheetings, bleached and unbleached cottons, denims, tickings, domestics, printed and dyed handkerchiefs, muslins, etc. In the customs returns they are not classified, but simply given as cotton goods. (2) In Liberia, imported cotton textiles are not tested by weight. (3) They were purchased in exchange for products of the country, viz: Palm-oil, palm kernels, camwood, ivory, gold, rubber, sugar, ginger, coffee, and a small portion in remittances of cash and bills. (4) They were manufactured in Great Britain, Germany, the United States, Holland, and Belgium, and imported from the same countries. (5) An ad valorem duty of 10 per cent, is charged upon these goods. B. E. SMITH, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE GENERAL, Monrovia, Liberia, August 26, 1889. MOROCCO. Quantity and kind imported per annum : 11,981 bales, manufactured. "Weight per yard : From 4 to 5 ounces. Purchased by commission agents. Manufactured in and imported from Great Britain. Duties, 10 per cent. WM. REED LEWIS, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Tuxpan, September 19, 1889. 12 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. PORTUGUESE, AFRICA. CAPE VERD ISLANDS. REPORT BY CONSUL PEASE, OF SANTIAGO. Statement showing the imports of cotton textiles into the Cape Verd Colony for the year ended December ',51, 1888, and the countries from which imported. [Quantities converted into avoirdupois pounds; duties into United States currency.] Description. Portugal. United States. England. Total. Quantity. Duty per pound. Quantity. Duty per pound. Quantity. Duty per pound. Pounds. 48, 157 28. 097 953 55,000 7,000 Cents. 5.3 9.5 35.4 17.1 14.0 Pounds. 32, 000 18, 250 1,100 28, 000 43, 000 Cents. 7.4 12.3 39.2 Pound*. 35. 290 19, 870 3, 222 40, 000 Cents. 7.4 2.3 39.2 Pounds. 115, 447 66, 217 5,245 123, 000 50, 000 Bleached cottons - Colored cottons and prints. 20.0 20.0 Total 139, 177 122, 350 98, 382 359, 909 I have to state that owing to the method of accounting for cotton goods in the different custom-houses of this colony the desired informa- tion required by the circular is unobtainable. HENRY PEASE, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Santiago, Cape Verd, October 20, 1889. MADEIRA. REPORT P.Y CONSUL JONES, OF PUNCH AL. In answer to your circular in regard to the importation of cotton tex- tiles into this district, I beg to hand you the inclosed report. These tables were made for me by the officer of customs. * The largest importation into this city is from Lisbon, and as no Gov- ernment duty is charged on this no accounts are kept by the customs- officer. One piece calico, manufactured in Manchester, 36 inches wide, 60 yards in length, 13 pounds per piece, cost 7 cents per yard ; discount, 7J per cent. ; weight per yard, 0.108 pound ; duties and other taxes per pound, 24 cents; duties per yard 2.5 cents. One piece of unbleached calico, from Manchester, 28 inches wide, 81 yards in length ; weight per piece, 22 pounds ; cost per yard, 3 cents ; discount, 1 J per cent. ; weight per yard, 0.136 pound ; duties and other taxes per pound, 17.8 cents ; duties per yard, 2.5 cents. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COl'NTKIKS. 13 Freight and expenses average 6 to 10 per cent, on the first cost. As a rule these goods are bought on a credit of three months. t'ntton tf.rtiles \mp6rh-d tluriny the year 1889. Articles. Duties per pound. Total imports. Value. Articles. Duties per pound. Total imports. Value. Cotton, wool, and Cents. Hi Pounds. 3 >l> 6 $610 00 Calico Cents. 91 Pounds. 82 516.6 $23 888 00 111 29 8.00 "Work ed calico Twisted cotton ..... tffi 17, 347. 4 7, 91 h 60 (towels) 134 281.8 301.50 8? IT) 4 015. 70 T willin^ and drill .. 16i 7,644.4 2, 661. 00 Crinoline 13i 999.4 228. 30 Printed cotton 26? 30, 970. 6 11,969.40 N't tt 59 1 220 8 1 013 20 Ribbons 30 6, 341. 2 1 068 50 Faucv net 58.'. 17 59.00 Handkerchiefs 32 2, 388. 8 1,378.20 Ill 23 4 29 50 Wicks 28i 217 4 194 10 45 719 6 864 80 Knitting 5»f 1, 618. 6 2 159. 10 Worked cambric Blankets 67i 262 12 33 30.00 22.00 Cotton fancy lace . . . Twilling and drill 38 1, 055. 6 743.00 Canvas 6 142 52.60 workf d 24f 634 943.80 g 188 769 25 *?95 30 Total go 076 60 UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Funchal, November, 1889. THOMAS C. JONES, Consul. ST. PAUL DE LOANDA. REPORT BY CONSUL NEWTON. (1) It is difficult to ascertain the quantity imported, etc., as this is more or less regulated by the prospective crop of coffee in each year. As the crop is expected to be large this year, a large quantity of cotton goods of all descriptions has been imported. (2) The weight varies according to the styles of cloth, of which there are so many varieties to suit the different markets and articles of pro- duce that no reliable weight can be stated. The principal kinds are in the following sizes, of yard, length and inches width: Grey domestics : 10 yards, 21 inches; 12 yards, 21 inches ; 12 yards, 15 inches ; 30 yards, 22 inches ; 20 yards, 21 inches ; 20 yards, 27 inches; 30 yards, 28 inches; average cost, 4 to 5 cents per yard ; other sizes in proportion. Striped and checked domestics: 7 yards, 21 inches; 12 yards, 27 inches; 18 yards, 27 inches; 18 yards, 40 inches ; 18 yards, 22inches ; 18 yards, 29 inches ; 4J to 6J cents per yard ; other sizes in proportion. Prints : 12 yards, 24 inches ; 23 yards, 28 inches ; 5 to 7 cents per yard ; other sizes in proportion. Satin stripes: 12 yards, 24 inches ; 3J to 4 cents per yard. Blue baftas : 18 yards, 38 inches ; 18 yards, 40 inches ; good heavy cloth ; 12 to 14 cents per yard. Handkerchiefs of all sorts and sizes. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Moreens : 24 yards. 28 inches ; 24 yards, 35 inches ; 7 to 9 cents per yard. (3) Usually all purchased in Lisbon from agents established there by Manchester houses, and also in Manchester itself. (4) Manufactured principally in Manchester and Glasgow and shipped to Lisbon, where they pay a small duty and are afterwards classified as Portuguese goods, and coming by Portuguese steamers pay only 70 per cent, of the full duties. No cotton goods come in vessels under foreign flags, otherwise they would pay full duties. (5) The full duties on cotton goods are : Cents. Plain cotton Per kilogram.. 16 Prints do 43£ Stripes and checks do 43£ Bluebaftas do 43| Moreens do 27 ... 43* ... 21f ... 76 ... 43* Handkerchiefs do. Colored cotton blankets do. Woolens ... ... do , Baize blankets do KOBT. S. NEWTON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, 8t. Paul de Loanda, August 15, 1889. ZANZIBAR. REPORT BY CONSUL PRATT, OF ZANZIBAR. Cotton textiles imported. Description. Average quan- tity imported per annum. How pur- chased. Place of manu- facture and whence im- ported. Duties charged thereon. Unbleached shirtings 28 inches Sales. ] 250 United States Per cent. 5 Unbleached sheetings 36 inches. ...... 2 000 . do do 1 5 Unbleached d tills 30 inches 800 ....do .. do 5 Unbleached shirtings ) rln Unbleached sheetings (of all sorts) 5 Bleached goods (limited quantity of va- do 5 rious kinds). United States. In former times America supplied this market with cotton goods. But within the past twelve years, the products of the Bombay mills, while in no sense being an imitation, have by their remarkable cheap- ness taken possession of the markets. SETH C. PRATT, Consul UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Zanzibar, September 2, 1889, CONTINENT OF AMERICA. BRITISH NORTH AMERICA. GRAY COTTON MANUFACTURES OF CANADA. EEPORTS BY CONSUL TANNER, OF PIOTOU, NOVA SCOTIA. The manufacturers in Canada of gray cotton recently held a conven- iton for the benefit of that industry in the Dominion. Delegates from all the mills in Canada were present, including an agent of a New York commission house with factors in China who have hitherto been the chief purchasers of cheap Canadian manufactured cotton goods for the Celestial markets. Owing to the present condition of the trade in Canada it was proposed that prices should be augmented and terms modified. After some discussion and objections on the part of small mill owners this proposition was postponed until the quarterly meeting in March next when it is confidently expected an advance in prices will take place and terms be reduced to sixty days and a discount of 2 per cent, for cash. The trade with China, owing to the presence of Mr. Frazon, formed a principal subject of discussion. It appeared that the total capacity of Canadian mills working on gray cotton is 35,000 to 37,000 bales per annum, and that the home consumption absorbs almost 30,000 bales of this. How to get rid of surplus has been a problem to the Canadian manufacturers for some years past. Communication with South America was more difficult than with China, hence the latter country offered a better field, and after many efforts successful negotiations with selling agents were effected and special arrangements were also made with carrying companies at ex- ceedingly low rates which enabled the manufacturers hereto send their goods half around the globe at rates that would enable them to com- pete to advantage with manufacturers in the United States. An inferior quality of goods as well as goods at a low price are an essential to trade in China, and those requisites seem to be met in the productions in Canada. This will readily appear when the fact is un- derstood that Canadian goods which cost from 26 to 28 cents per pound to manufacture are sold to the trade here at 23 cents, and the cloth consumed by the Chinese can be manufactured for 10 to 17 cents per 15 16 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. pound. The prices realized on the latter in Chinese market are from 17£ to 19 cents per pound, which will net a slight margin of profits. It can be seen by the prices quoted above that the profits are so small that the carrrying rates must be next to nothing, and it is this one fac- tor that in all probability enables Canadian manufacturers to enter the field as competitors in any class of manufactured cotton, and pocket a small profit. The advantage of long runs in the manufacture of textile goods is well known. The goods required for the Chinese market are low and of coarse quality, and the amounts secured from their sale is equitably divided among the different mills, each agreeing to confine its produc- tions of these goods to 15 per cent, of its capacity, but with the option of keeping the same proportion of machinery at a standstill. The total exportation of Canadian gray cottons to China during the past year was 8,000 bales, and from recent demands there is not much probability that this will be decreased. On the other hand, the exporta- tion from England in the same time into China shows a falling off' of 105,000,000 yards, and a total falling off of 150,000,000 yards, the United States bemg the next greatest sufferer with England. This deserves attention from our manufacturers. Stock on hand in China at the present time is not one-half of what it was at a corresponding period of last year. This stock was estimated very recently to amount to 4,980 bales, while the orders on hand amounted to 4,505 bales, or that the supply is not in proportion to the demand, and this was one of the reasons for the discussion of an ad- vance in prices on the part of Canadian manufacturers, alluded to at the outset of this dispatch. The position of the Canadian consumer is improved from that of ten years ago, when the change in the tariff gave such an impetus to their cotton industry. At that time stuff' that had to pay 30 cents a pound for the same goods can now be purchased at 22 cents. The mill-owners complain, however, of discouragingly small profits, but reap some satisfaction from the fact that the u Yan- kee" suffered as well as themselves. This dispatch it is hoped will be of some value to our manufacturers of the class of goods spoken of therein by showing them in ^hat way Canada can enter the competitive field with them. In my opinion the ability to do so hinges on the low rates of carriage effected with steam-ship lines (lines which, in my opinion, are subsidized by the Government) and organization and judicious co-operation among the manufacturers of cotton goods in Canada. The Canadian manufacturer learned at once how to cater to Chinese prejudices. The Chinaman must have his gray cotton exactly 40 yards long, it must be exactly 36 inches wide, and the bale must be fastened with 8 ropes, no more no less. GEO. C. TANNER, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Consul j Dwmber 26, 1889, COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 17 BRITISH COLUMBIA. REPORT OF CONSUL STETEXS, OF VICTORIA. GENERAL TRADE OF THE PROVINCE. In replying, under instructions conveyed in circular of May 27, 1889, concerning importation, into tbis consular district, of cotton textiles, it is proper in explanation of the meager matter set forth that I should give a brief description of the business of this place and the commercial scope of the consulate. This town, situated on the southern extremity of the island of Van- couver, is the principal port of entry, and mainly the distributing point of the province. The town of Vancouver, on the mainland, at the ter- minus of the Canadian Pacific Kail way, which has been built within the last three years, consequent upon the completion of the railway, and is now nearly as populous as this, and fast increasing, of late somewhat divides the business. Neither of these towns has cotton manufactories. The general mer- chandising business of this town is not systemized. Besides the Hud- son's Bay Company's store, in which almost everything can be pur- chased, there are some seven other principal firms carrying on business in the same manner, and combining a shipping business. These two towns, Victoria and Vancouver, are the principal towns of the province. Nanaimo is not much more than a coal port, and New Westminster, on the Fraser River, is as yet comparatively unimportant ; the interior towns are unimportant and remote. During the last fiscal year ten vessels, bringing a total of 11,812 tons of freight, arrived in this port from the United Kingdom. A consider- able portion of this was assorted merchandise from London and Liver- pool, and a part of it naval stores for the station at Esquimalt. Add to this constant arrivals by regular packets, from San Francisco principally, from the ports on Puget Sound and other ports, and the total imports cf last year were $2,922,395 in value, upon which $748,- 613.98 duty was paid. A certain quantity of such goods, of which no record is obtainable, may be received at a town, small and remote, along and near the line of the railway which spans the width of the province, as well as at the ter- minal town of Vancouver. 608A 2 38 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. IMPORTS OF COTTON TEXTILES. The following from the Dominion revenue-books shows the imports of cotton textiles for the last fiscal year, entered principally at Victoria: Articles and whence imported. Quantity. Value. Duty. Bleached and unbleached sheetings, drills, ducks, not stained, painted, nor printed : 27 620 $2 5£1 $665 30 United States * " do 31 954 5 719 1 177 39 Ginghams or plaids dyed or colored : Great Britain . . . . . do ' 906 102 33 37 "United States do . . 7 136 741 253 95 Denims, drillings, bed-tickings, Canton flannels, ducks, and drills, dyed or colored, checked and striped shirtings, cottonades, etc. 23 393 2 741 679 01 United States do 75 984 14* 183 3 847 14 Printed or dyed cotton fabrics, not elsewhere specified: Great Britain yards 163 074 13 019 4 206 38 United States do 75 059 5 016 1 630 20 France . .. . . do *119 54 17 55 China do 917 57 18 5C Japan .... . do 310 16 5 20 Damask of cotton bleached, unbleached, or colored : Great Britain do 17 337 1 410 352 50 United States - do 4 716 *378 94 50 Handkerchiefs, plain or printed, in the piece or otherwise : Great Britain do 4 228 1 057 00 United States do . 134 33 5C Shirts, of cotton : 292 1 702 802 50 United States ... do 116 1 063 434 9ft China . . do 9 50 24 00 Bed comforters or quilts, not including woven quilts or counter- panes : 300 904 314. 15 United States - - . . . . do 13 43 15 05 29 85 29 75 Clothing, or other material not otherwise provided for, including corsets and similar articles made up by seamstress or tailor ; also tarpaulin, plain or coated with oil, paint, tar, or other com- position : Great Britain 9 447 3 297 61 United States 9 967 3 488 45 Fiance 483 169 05 China 823 288 05 Japan 91 31 85 Clothing not otherwise provided for : Great Britain 73 21 90 United States 201 60 45 China ... g 2 40 Colored fabrics, woven, of dyed or colored cotton yarn, or part jute and part cotton, or other material, except silk : Great Britain yards 177 45 11 25 United States .. do 240 37 9 25 Cotton bags, made up by the use of the needle, not elsewhere specified : Great Britain 3 1 05 United States 605 211 70 Lamp- wicks: United States 264 279 20 China 13 3 90 Prunella, for boots and shoes : Great Britain . . 72 7 20 Parasols, umbrellas, and sun-shades : Great Britain. 3 731 1 119 30 United States 119 35 70 Japan . . . 4 1 20 Shawls: Great Britain 123 30 75 United States 2 50 Socks and stockings: Great Britain pounds.. United States do 4,825 430 4,295 293 1, 768. 79 130 90 Germany do 224 133 62 30 China do 461 322 142 70 Towels : Great Britain 2,715 668 75 United States 75 28 85 China 11 2.75 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 19 Articles and whence imported. Quantity. Viilm-. Duty. Velveteens and cotton velvets : Great Britain . ... yards 8 3°5 $2 450 $491 00 United States , do 166 66 14. 20 Winceys of all kinds, not elsewhere specified : Great Britain yards 10 543 741 166 6 Winceys, checked, striped, or fancy cotton winceys, n< 25 inches wide : )t over yards 717 57 22 89 All other manufactures of cotton, not elsewhere specified Great Britain . . ... . 9 002 1 800 40 United States 1*906 381 67 China ' 3 60 Total 10° 416 30 245 17 It is almost impossible to arrive at a practical estimate of the quan- tity of cotton textiles imported from eastern Canada annually. One of the dealers, the most intelligent and the heaviest, puts it at $100,000 value ; others, again, place it at a less figure, and most of them can give no statement. ROBT. J. STEVENS, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Victoria, June 27, 1889. ONTARIO. FORT ERIE. REPORT BY CONSUL WHELAN. The importation of cotton fabrics, of which entry is made at the port of Fort Erie, is insignificant (as this is not a distributing point), and con- sists of small quantities brought in from the United States by a few retail dealers and by families for private use. Such goods coming into Canada at this point go through in bond, and entry is made at Hamil- ton, Brantford, London, St. Thomas, and other interior ports of entry. The cotton textiles of which entry is made here are manufactured in the United States and are imported from Buffalo. There are no direct importations from any other country, dealers being supplied from Ham- ilton, Toronto, and Montreal. The following tables show the kind, quantity, and value of manufact- ures of cotton imported aud entered at Fort Erie for the fiscal years ended June 30, 1886, 1887, 1888, aud 1889, and the rate of duty charged thereon : Articles and year of importation. Quantity. Value. Duty. Bleached and unbleached sheetings, drills, ducks, etc., not stained or printed : 1886 .. Yard*. 2 968 $195 1887 . . . 2 487 201 and 15 per cent. Do 1888 2 260 176 Do 1889... 2.091 170 Do. 20 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Articles and year of importation. Quantity. Value. Duty. Ginghams, plaida, drillings, etc 1886 . , dyed or colored : Yards. 2,195 1,007 943 597 2,204 5,620 3,389 3,432 $205 122 156 65 431 364 213 222 $644 608 379 372 644 608 379 372 647 97 103 50 2 cents per square yard and 15 per cent. Do. Do. Do. 27* per cent. Do. Do. Do. 25 per cent. 30 per cent. 20 per cent. 1887 1889 Printed or dyed cotton fabrics, 1886 not elsewhere specified : 1887 - - 1888 1889 Towels : 1886 1887 . 1888 1889 Clothing, or other material made up by the tailor or seam- stress, including corsets, lace collars, and similar arti- cles: 1886 - 1887 1888 1889 All other manufactures of cotton, not elsewhere specified: 1886 1887 1888 1889 UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Fort Erie, Ontario, July 30, 1889. JAMES WHELAN, Consul. NOVA SCOTIA. WINDSOR. REPORT BY CONSUL YOUNG, OF WINDSOR. I have the honor to submit the following statement of the imports of cotton textiles into this consular district, of which Windsor is the chief port of entry : QUANTITY AND KIND IMPORTED. Imported during the fiscal year ended June 30, 1889. Articles. Quantity. Value. Rate of duty. Printed or dyed yards.. Other cotton goods: Cotton cloth in y 1JO. T>n 1887 do 9,730 1,599 5* 1 32 477 14! 862 2^076 460 02 x/o. Do 1888 do.... 5,879 1,126 6,640 548 12! 519 1^674 376J 29 Do! 1889 do . 2, 912 783 5, 061 442 7,973 1,225 970 fift Do. Ginghams and plaids, dyed & |U, Oo or colored : 1884 square yards.. 129 10 494 69 623 79 24.31 2 cents per square yard and 15 per cent. 1885... ...do... 440 48 1,588 187 2,028 235 75.81 Do. 1886 do.... 1,359 159 824 67 2.183 226 77.56 Do. 1887 do.... 2,753 328 1,594 147 4,347 475 158. 19 Do. 1888 do ... 516 53 67 16 583 69 oo 01 Do 1889 do.... Denims, drillings, bed tick- 254 31 1,086 146 1,340 177 -i£. U L 53.35 Do! ings, canton flannels, ducks, and drills, dyed or colored, checked, etc., striped shirt- * ings, cottonades, etc. : 1884 square yards . . 23, 378 2,130 18, 409 2,320 41, 787 5,450 1, 654. 21 2 cents per square yard and 15 per 1 cent. 1885 do.... 10, 879 1,484 10, 569 1,463 21.448 2,947 871. 01 Do. 1886 do 5,674 813 3,512 515] 9,' 186 1,328 382. 92 Do. 1887 do.... 320 126 3, 522 459 3,842 585 164. 59 Do. 1888 do.... 106 17 7,027 785 7,133 802 262. 96 Do. 1889 do 7,144 840 7,144 840 268. 88 Do. Printed or dyed cotton fabrics. not elsewhere specified : 1884 yards.. 31,095 2,303 184, 686 15, 872 215, 781 18, 175 4. 566. 28 20 per cent, to Jan. 1, 1884, 27i pei- cent. from'Jau. 1885 do... 1886 do 3887 ...do.... 34, 627 68, 000 34,460 3,145 4,069 2, 140 221, 645 188, 188 257, 625 22,159 16, 127 19, 701 256, 272 256, 188 292, 085 25, 304 20, 196 21,841 6, 960. 50 5,558.11 6, 067. 56 1, 1884. Do. 27£ per cent. 27i per cent, to May 13, 32* 1888.. ...do... 1889 do.... 17, 078 10, 950 1,311 630 140, 397 178, 936 11, 602 13, 549 157,475 189, 886 12, 913 14, 179 4, 198. 12 4, 608. 63 after. 32J per cent. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. n festih>s imported into Prince Edward Island, etc. — Continued. 25 Articles and year of impor- tation. From United States. From Great Britain. Total quantity. Total valne. Duty. 1 9 1 Quantity. i f Amount Rate. White cotton jeans and cou- tilles, including cambrics, caatins, and silicias : 1H84. yards.. ,1885 do ... 44, 339 $2, 695 79.625 $0,970 123,964 $8,665 $1, 734. 41 20 per cent. 2 cents per pound and 15 percent. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. 2 cents per pound and 15 percent. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. 3 cents per pound and 15 per cent. . Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. 3 cents per pound and 15 per cent. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. 2 cents per pound and 15 per cent. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. 30 per cent. Do. Do. Do. i $1 per dozen and 30 per cent. Do. 20 per cent. 1 Do. Do. Do. i 25 per cent. ! Do. 1886 do 1887 ...do 1888 do 1889 do Wadding, batting, batts, and warps, and carpet warps, not bleached, dyed, or col- ored: 1884 pounds.. 1885 do 2,132 2,371 1,260 1,036 "J05 284 239 134 149 27 2,132 2,371 1,200 1,036 205 284 239 181 149 27 85.24 83.27 45.30 43.07 8.15 1886 do 1887 do ... 1888 do 1889 do .. Knitting yarn, hosiery yarn, or other cotton yairn, un- der No. 40, not bleached, dyed, or colored : 1884 pounds 190 46 40 132 31 24 13 45 309 70 60 17 499 116 40 132 91 % ..« 23.63 8.47 2.75 9.39 1885 . .do ... 1886 do 1887 do 1888 do 1889 do... Wadding, batting, batts. and wraps, bleached, dyed, or rolored : 1884 pounds . . 260 393 176 120 182 40 84 92 204 124 74 75 39 22 34 8 23 36 75 43 46 4 1C 13 4 303 439 180 120 186 44 916 86 92 204 124 90 88 43 22 28 11 215 24 36 75 36 22.59 26.37 11.86 6.90 11.28 2.97 59.73 6.18 8.16 17.37 9.12 1885 . . . do. . . 1886 do .. 1887 .... do 1888 do 4 4 916 1 4 1 215 1 1889 do... Knitting yarn, hosiery yarn, and other cotton yarn, under No. 40, bleached, dyed, and colored: 1884 pounds.. 1885 do 1886 do 1887 do.... 1888 do . 36 1889 do... Seamless bags : 1884 pounds 62 367 335 141 568 466 13 69 65 28 74 80 305 62 367 345 141 581. 466 13 69 66 28 75 80 1,947 3,291 2, 100 1,757 77 74 819 1,026 123 45 163 21 3.19 17.62 16.80 7.02 22.93 21.82 584.10 987. 30 630.00 542.89 32.60 35.07 163.80 205.20 24.60 9.00 40.75 — 2.25 1885 do 1886 do.... 1887 do 10 1 1888 do.... 1889 do 13 1,642 2,934 Skirts and drawers, woven or made on frames, and all cotton hosiery and knitted cloth : 1884 . 1885 357 1886 379 1,721 1887 502 1,255 1888... dozen.. 1889 do.... Sewing thread on spools : 6} 53 9 9 6 77 21 812 9 12f 1885 1,026 123 45 1886 1887 1888 163 21 1889... 26 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton textiles imported into Prince Edward Island, etc. — Continued. Articles and year of impor- tation. From United States. From Great Britain. Total quantity. 1 "« i> '3 "o H Duty. Quantity. £ & 1 $100 57 1 16 Quantity. Amount. Rate. Bed comforters, or quilts of cotton, not including woven quilts or counterpanes : 1884 number.. 67 37 ' 1 20 30 21 28 2 $51 34 22 9 97 58 29 22 $151 91 23 25 $41. 53 25.0^ 6. 83 6.89 27J per cent. Do. Do. Do. 35 per cent. Do. 30 per cent. Do. Do. Do. 35 per cent. Do. 30 per cent. Da Do. 35 per cent. Do. 30 per cent. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. 25 per cent. 30 per cent- Do. Do. Do. Do. 26 per cent. Do. 3t Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. 1885 do 1886 do .... 1887 do 1888 do... 1889 ..do Clothing or other material, nototherwise provided for, including corsets, lace col- lars, aiid similar articles, made up bv seamstress or tailor; also' tarpaulin, plain or coated with oil, etc. : 1884 1885 4,011 5,979 2,776 2, 167 6,787 8,146 6,073 6,038 3,459 3,159 2, 036. 10 2, 443. 80 1, 821. 90 1, 826. 50 1, 189. 36 1, 105. 38 1886 4,133 1,940 1887 2,796 1,168 3,242 2,3151 1888 1889 1,787 1,372 Cotton bags, made up bythe use of the needle, not else- where specified : 1885 141 141 42.30 1886 1887 15 74 165 1 59 66 38 28 62 15 74 165 1 60 66 38 28 62 93 225 945 1,443 1,059 1,291 4.50 25.90 57. 75 .30 18.40 19.80 11.40 8.25 18.60 23.25 63.85 283. 50 432. 90 317. 70 387. 30 1888 1889 Lamp-wicks : 1884 1885 1 1886 1887 ... - 1888 - • 1889 Parasols, umbrellas, and sun- shades : 1884 93 1885 225 930 1,438 1, 059 1886 15 5 1887 1888 1889 17 1 °74 Damask of cotton bleached, unbleached, or colored: 1884 yards 1885 .do .. 8,720 83 895 430 131 1,745 8 226 52 11 8,720 130 951 430 181 1,745 20 237 52 14 438. 40 5.00 59.25 13.00 3.50 1886 do 47 56 12 11 1887 do 1888 do 1£8!» do 50 Handkerchiefs, plain or printed, in the piece or otherwise : 1884 1885 %' 1886 rj 95 102 1,672 1,117 1,293 25.50 421.45 279. 25 323. 25 1887 43 1 629 1888 14 1,103 1889 1, 293 Towels: 1884 1885 1886 154 365 154 377 169 182 38.50 94.25 42.45 45.50 1887 12 1888 18 160 1889... 15 167 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton /rjr/»7f» Imported into Prince Edward Island, etc.— Continued. 27 Articles and year of impor- tation. From United From Great States. Britain. Total quantity. Total value. Duty. ::• i 1 | "3 > £> a 5 B 3 13 > Amount. Rate. Colored fabrics woven, of dyed or colored cotton yarn, or part jute and part cotton, or other mate- rial except silk, not else- where specified: 1884 yards 25 per cent Do. 10 cents per pound and 30 per cent. Do. 20 per cent. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. 22* per cent. Do. Do. Do. Do. 20 per oent. Do. Do. Do. Do. 1885 do 1886 do 1887 do ... 1888 do 40 480 $19 111 $715 2,324 $209 481 $755 2,804 $228 592 $57.00 148.00 1889 ..do . Socks and stockings of cot- ton: 1884 pounds.. 1885 . do 1886 do .. 1887 do 1888 do ... 125 101 142 108 1,435 1,812 9,731 16, 099 14, 786 12,699 6,718 5,896 31, 508 65,878 4,760 3,130 «J, 980 6,658 1,052 1,152 4,353 6,271 5,164 3,594 1.730 1,330 :.», 861 5,440 381 197 •28 447 11, 755 7 541 1,560 1,913 9,731 16,099 14, 786 12, 699 6,718 5,896 31,508 65, 878 4,760 3,130 9,980 G, 658 1,194 1,260 4,353 6,271 5,164 3,594 1,730 1,330 2, 861 5,440 384 197 628 447 12,903 8,127 7,932 2,906 2,373 2,846 514.30 569.30 870.60 1,254.20 1,032.60 718. 80 346.00 266.00 572.81 1, 089. 95 86.41 44.30 141. 31 100.58 2,580.60 1,625.40 1,586.40 581.90 474.60 572.45 1889 do Velveteens and cotton vel- vets: 1884 yards.. 1885 do 1886 do 1887 do 1888 do 1889 . do Winceys of all kinds: 1884 yards.. 1885 do ... . 1886 do 1887 do . 1888 do 1889 dn All other manufactured of cotton, not elsewhere speci- fied: 1884 1886 1,148 586 522 201 159 97 1886 6,481 2,705 2,214 2, 749 1887 1888 1889 RECAPITULATION. 1884 $74,902 1885 69,074 1886 46,318 1887 43,640 1888 28,025 1889 29,248 28 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. MEXICO. GUAYMAS. REPORT BY CONSUL WILLARD. IMPORTS. The greater portion of the importations for this consular district, which formerly came entirely by sea, are now brought via Nogales on the Mexican- American frontier by the Sonora Railroad, American manufactured goods, as well as European manufactured goods sent in transit through the United States via Galveston, New Orleans, and New York. These goods are dispatched at Nogales paying duty, etc. (our consul at Nogales no doubt will obtain the data of both Amer- ican and European goods), for this reason I can only give approximate figures as to quantities and values during the year 1888 for Guaymas. Two-thirds of the cotton goods consumed in this consular district are of American manufacture, and they now occupy the place formerly held by European goods (English and German). Up to 1874 the great bulk of cotton textiles consumed on the west coast of Mexico was of European manufacture. The northern states of Mexico now consume but few European goods in comparison with former years, as the facil- ities of importing American goods by rail has made this change, and besides the quality of the goods as a rule are superior. This, no doubt, will be confirmed by the reports of our consuls along the Mexican and American border (Paso del Norte, Laredo and Matamoros). There are no American mercantile exporting houses established in this consular district, the leading commercial houses being German, Spanish, and Mexican. Neither French nor English houses exist that import manufactured cotton goods. I can state in reply to the five points in which information is re- quested as follows : QUANTITY AND KIND IMPORTED. I can only give that which came by sea to Guaymas for 1888, which is more or less the same for the past two years preceding. The cotton goods so imported of American manufacture brought from San Fran- cisco to Guaymas by steamers (none by sailing vessels), according to the values entered at this Guaymas custom-house, was $105,145 (the number of yards I am unable to obtain), consisting of cotton drillings, sheetings, calicoes, and lawns. Importations of same class of goods of European manufacture from Germany and England, value $68,000. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 29 tin: table thawing width*, weight per yard, price and duties paid on certain cotton good* imported to Gaaymas, Mexico, from the United States, England, and Ger- many. Articles. Width of piece. Weight per yard. Pru Guaymas, Mexico. Import duty. American : Inches. 28 Ounces. g Gents. 33 17 cents per square meter. Prints 244 2 16J 12 cents if not over 30 threads to half Bleached sheeting. Gray sheeting 26 32 28 ii if 14 20 21 centimeter square ; 15 cents if over 30 threads. 9 cents if not over 30 threads to half centimeter square ; 11 cents if over 30 threads. Uo. Do. EngU*h: 28 21 18 12 cents if not over 30 threads to half Bleached sheeting. Lawns 26 22 1* i 12 22 centimeter square ; 15 cents if over 30 threads. 9 cents if not over 30 threads to half centimeter square ; 11 cent sif over 30 threads. Do. German : Cotton drill 30 40 17 cents per square meter. Prints 32 01 25 12 cents if not over 30 threads to half centimeter square ; 15 cents if over 30 threads. The established importing houses of this port, as a rule, purchase their goods on time. If in the United States, from thirty to sixty days, and in Europe from six to ten months. The goods are manufactured in and imported from the United States, Germany, and England. Duties are charged by the square meter, and with prints, sheetings, etc., according as there are under thirty threads to the half centimeter square or over thirty threads. This distribution is not made with denims, drill, and similar heavier goods. A. WLLLARD, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Guaymas, July 20, 1889. TALCAHUANO. REPORT BY CONSUL VAN 1NGEN. In reply to the Department of State's circular of May 27, 1889, with regard to the import of cottons into this consular district, I have to state that no statistics are published here, and only general statistics at the capital (Santiago), and these not for separate districts. This district includes Concepcion Bay, Talcahuano, Coronel, Valdivia, and, in short, all ports south of this. I inclose the only data I have been able to obtain, and which I trust may be found useful. 30 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Iii addition to the tariff duties noted on annexed table, and which are calculated in paper money, there is an additional charge for exchange or gold value, being for the current injnth of August 39 per cent., and for September will be 38 per c.'nt., reaching in December 35 pet- cent., which may probably be the rate for the coming year. JOHN F. VAN INGEN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Talcahuano, August 23, 1888. Cotton textiles imported, and which have paid dulies into this port, during the year 1588. Articles and whence imported. Quantity. Tariff value. Total value. Duties. Bleached cottons : Germany . . . 50 347 $1 00 $50 347 00 Per ct. 25 . . do 22 221 1 60 22 221 00 25 England do 93 110 1 00 93 110 00 25 CTnited States do 926 1 00 926 00 25 Spain do 78 1 00 78 00 25 Osnaburgs : Germany . - do 26 872 50 12 279 00 15 England do 43 189 50 18 020 00 15 France do 7 090 50 3 545.00 15 United States do 28 090 50 14 083 00 15 Prints: Germany do 96 426 1 50 37 018 00 25 England do 39 244 1 50 58 611 00 25 France do 8 656 1 50 11 937 00 25 Spain . . do 45 1 50 67 00 25 Italy do 104 1 50 156 00 25 Cotton cloth for pants : Germany .. . do 72 419 90 67 670 00 25 England -. .. do 45 238 90 41 511 00 25 France do 6 222 90 5 515 00 25 United States do *170 90 155 00 25 Cotton cloth : Germany . 5 415 °0 1 083 00 25 England do 6 228 20 1 245 60 25 France do 2 490 20 498 00 25 Twilled cottons: Germany 576 2 50 1 412 00 25 England do 314 2 50 1 259 00 25 France ... . do 196 2 50 681 00 25 Cotton drills: Germany do 4 506 95 4 280 00 25 England ...... do 4 157 ' % 4 113 00 25 France do 644 95 617 00 25 Ticking: Germany kilograms 4 828 1 20 3 907 00 25 France. 2 370 1 20 1 8S4 00 25 England do 7 453 1 20 6 341 00 25 United States do *258 1 20 32^ 00 25 Sheeting: Germany . . do 2 197 2 309 00 25 England do 469 469 00 25 France do 1 075 .... . 906 00 25 Serged drills : Germany do 6 791 95 6 451 00 25 England ... do 3 956 95 3 614 00 25 France do 1 288 95 1 231 00 25 Cotton thread in balls : Germany ...do 5 347 1 50 7 889.00 25 England do 6 628 1 50 9 257 00 25 France do 1 342 1 50 1 885.00 25 Cotton thread in spools : Germany do 876 4 50 3 554 00 25 England do 3 416 4 50 12 859 00 25 France do 123 4 50 705 00 25 Lawn cotton : German / England meter., do 31, 214 70 458 .06 06 1,891.00 4 119 00 25 25 Franc« ...do.. 4,256 .06 255.00 25 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 31 Cotton textiles imported, and which have paid duties into this port, etc. — Continued. Articles and whence imported. • Quantity. Tariff value. Total value. Duties. Striped cottons : Ill $0 90 $100 00 Perct. 25 do 883 90 707 00 25 France ... . do . 170 90 134 00 ''5 Cotton stockings: Germany . . . . dozens 12,621 1 20 11 342 00 25 England do 9 728 1 20 9 369 00 25 France .. . do 3 563 1 20 3 314 00 25 United States do 524 1 20 584 00 25 Spain .. . do . 131 90 97 00 25 Cotton wlcking : England . ....... kilograms 602 75 293 00 25 United States do 230 .75 127 00 25 Shawls: do 2 956 1 50 4 4g3 oo 25 do 1 469 1 50 1 588 00 25 France ....do . 110 1 50 152 00 •J5 Spain do 26 1 50 44 00 25 Handkerchiefs : 3 073 1 50 5 424 00 25 England . ..do. . 5 *70 1 50 8 344.00 52 France do.... 404 1.50 706.00 25 Towels : Germany ...do... 159 1.25 248.00 25 England do 705 1 25 1 137 00 25 France . .... . do... 425 1.25 492. 00 25 Unbleached cotton sheeting: England do . 80 165 .75 61 270.00 25 France , do.... 12, 660 .75 9, 647. 00 25 United States do 600 75 453 00 25 Germany . ...do.... 25,235 .75 19, 308. 00 25 Total 661 648.60 RECAPITULATION. England $337,236.60 Gemany 240,995.00 France 66,325.00 United States 16,650.00 Spain 286.00 CENTRAL AMERICA. COSTA RICA. REPORT BY CONSUL WINGFIELD, OF SAN JOSfi. Cotton textiles imported into Costa Rica /«>r year 1868. Articles. Quantity. Weight. Width. Contents of package. Brown cotton Kilograms. 142, »«5 58,886 106, 498 6,258 104,634 28,998 5.556 Inches. 27 40-48-96 28-36 28J 30 |U 26J Yard. 40 50=100 40 20 Sail cloth for cart covers ........ 1 to 2 pounds per yard Bleached shirting . . 4 J to lOf pounds per piece ac- cording to width . . Croydon Brown and bleached drilling Blue denims .. (United States, 7i pounds per (England. 4£ pounds per piece . . 12£ pounds per piece According to quality and size . 20 31 Bed-spreads . . 32 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton textiles imported into Costa Rica for year 1888 — Continued. Articles. Quantity. Weight. Width. Contents of package. Kilograms. [United States, 6 pounds per 1 piece Inches. 25 Yard. 53 (England and France, 3| pounds 25 30 Pique 6 258 4^ pounds per piece 26 30 5,650 4 pounds per piece 25 28 Muslins 13 518 2A- pounds per piece ... 24 31 9,928 2 and- 3 pounds per piece, ac- cording to width 32 and 39 20 TT i\ 1 ' 4 287 430 Damask goods for towels, nap- 93 633 72 Handkerchiefs 29 861 426 Tape, trimmings, cord, garters, etc ... ...... Beady-made clothing : 20, 710 435 Underwear for men 11 012 648 In addition to information called for by the circular of the Department, I have given the width and number of yards in piece of goods. As to some articles this is insisted ou by importers. Quantity given is the gross weight, as duties in Costa Rica are charged on the gross weight and the statistical report is made up accordingly. This is a point to be specially considered by United States merchants. It is the common complaint here that our merchants do not know how to pack goods. They should be packed strong to stand transport across the mountains and as light as possible. Articles. Whence imported. How purchased. Duty per kilogram. Brown cottons United States Cash $0 26 Sail cloth for cart cover. . .... . . do do .26 England for most part • 6 to 12 months' credit* inter- 43 Croydon . from United States too fine thread. England est, 6 per cent., added. do 43 Brown and bleached drilling. Blue denims United States and England. do United States, cash ; England, 6 and 12 months' credit. do .43 .43 England 6 to 1 2 months' credit 43 Calicoes Cheap from United States ; United States, cash ; Eng'and 54 Piques better from England and France. England and France, 6 to 12 months' credit. r>4 Percales do do . 54 Muslins do do 54 Victoria lawns. do .do 54 Undershirts do do . 65 Drawers . . do do 65 Damask goods for towels, etc .do do 65 Handkerchiefs England and Germany do .. 65 Collars and cuffs England and France . . do 87 Tape trimming, cords, gar- do 1.09 ters, etc. Ready-made clothing do 1 09 Each kilogram is equal to about 2| pounds. The above tariff of duties is in Costa Rican currency. Exchange here is so variable that it is dif- ficult to say what the equivalent would be in United States gold. During the year 1888 the rate varied, sometimes $1 United States gold was worth $1.35, and sometimes $1.50. The average for 1888 was about $1.40. J. BlCHARD WlNGFIELD, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, San Jose, Costa Rica, July 30, 1889, COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 33 GUATEMALA. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL HOSMER. While attempts have been made to manufacture cotton goods in this republic on a small scale, nothing of a successful or permanent char- acter has been effected. COTTON GROWING IN GUATEMALA. Some twenty-five years ago Sea Island cotton was planted near the Pacific coast, and an abundant crop of the raw material was raised. It seemed, as I am informed, both practicable and profitable to extend its growth, the soil and climate favoring, to a remarkable degree, the cult- ure of the plant, but during the second or its following season the fatal u army-worm" put in its destructive appearance, committing such rav- ages that the planting and cultivation was abandoned, and has not been resumed since that time. IMPORTS BY COUNTRIES. Hence the republic of Guatemala depends upon foreign markets for the supply of cotton textiles, the principal portion of which is imported from England ; next in quantity is from the United States. I am unable to follow strictly or exactly the requirements of the De- partment's circular of May 27, 1889, but have endeavored, by careful inquiry, to acquire such facts and figures as will afford approximate in- formation to the cotton manufacturers of the United States for the ben- efit of their trade. The custom-house of Guatemala classifies cotton goods of all kinds, with the value of and duty on same, in gross sums, as follows: From England. — Prints, white shirting, brown cottons, sheetings, bed- spreads, cotton clothing, hosiery (half and long hose), undershirts, handkerchiefs, all of cotton, to the value of $873,594.20 ; duties there- on, $721,676.10. From United States. — Prints, brown cottons, sheetings, drillings, hosiery (half and long hose), all of cotton, to the value of $89,286.17 ; duties thereon, $64,298.30. From France. — Prints, white shirting, calicoes, cotton clothing, hosiery (half and long hose), all of cotton, to the value of $27,395.48 ; duties thereon, $26,514. From Belgium and Germany. — Drillings, hosiery (half and long hose), all of cotton, to the value of $26,983.80 ; duties thereon, $16,619.82. Total import value, $1,017,259.65; duties, $829,108.22. These sums are based upon the Guatemalan j?eso, or Peruvian so?, which is worth 68 cents United States gold. The specific kinds of cotton goods imported into this market from the United States are Pacific H sheeting, 36 inches; Massachusetts C, 608A 3 34 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. of same width: Warregan Mills No. 1, of Pawtucket, K. L, and white, and brown drills. These are favorites among the native population, and preferred to any of European manufacture. The weight per yard is not obtainable for the reasons already stated. Cotton goods from the United States are purchased through commis- sion-houses in New York. The place of manufacture and whence imported is included in the general statement of the custom house under the reply to the first inter- rogatory of the Department's circular. The duties on cotton goods imported into this republic are levied upon the gross weight of the packages, including boxes and coverings, and not per yarcj. They vary from 20 cents per pound for cotton sheet- ings and its kind, to 30 cents for white calicoes. JAMES R. HOSMER, Consul General. UNITED STATES CONSUL ATE- GENERAL, Guatemala, July 31, 1889. SAN SALVADOR. REPORT BY CONSUL TUNSTALL. IMPORTS. In compliance with directions I have prepared and have the honor to submit the following report upon the cotton textiles imported into this consular district during the year 1888. The number of packages or bales and the countries whence imported were as follows : England 13,715 United States 1,854 France 768 Germany 700 Italy 220 These packages or bales are constituted each of fifty and sixty pieces, and each piece contains so many yards of a given witdh, varying as per the following table: Width. Length. Pieces in bale. Weight per bale. Inches. lards. 34 24 50 356 34 24 50 367 34 24 50 298 26 24 60 330 26 24 60 349 24 24 60 302 24 24 60 326 24 24 60 296 These bales of domestics or cotton textiles present the shape or bulk in which these importations are shipped, and the weight per yard may COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 35 be readily ascertained when the deduction of from 9 to 11 pounds tare is allowed on the gross avoirdupois of the bale, the heaviest being about 3J yards and the lightest 5£ yards to the pound, or, as I estimated it, about 4i ounces for the heaviest and 3} ounces for the lightest per yard. HOW PURCHASED. These goods are purchased on a credit of six months in the United States and on nine and twelve mouths in the European markets. WHERE MANUFACTURED. All this class of goods imported from Great Britain is manufactured at Manchester, while those from Germany are imported through Ham- burg, but where manufactured I am not prepared to state; nor have I succeeded, after diligent inquiry, in ascertaining where the cotton im- norted from France and Italy are shipped or manufactured. DUTIES. The duty charged upon these goods is 30 cents per kilogram on the gross weight of the bale or package, which amounts to 110 per cent, on cost; 80 per cent, of which is paid in cash, and the remaining 30 per cent, in Government bonds. EUROPEAN VS. AMERICAN COTTON IN SALVADOR. In my interview with the merchants I discover that the larger share of American cottons are marked " Indian Head Mills and Mas- sachusetts shirtings." I am informed by the merchant that there are serious obstacles to overcome in the introduction of this class of American goods, notwith- standing their acknowledged superiority. He has in the first place a credit of only six months in the States with 6 per cent, interest on his bills, while in the European market he has nine and twelve months with 5 per cent, interest. Besides this dis- crimination, he alleges there is a difference in freight and exchange in favor of the European market. Hence it is the manipulations of trade in dry goods and cotton textiles seem to operate against the development of this branch of American interests in this quarter. Aside from all these drawbacks, however, I have the assurances of some of the most intelligent and enterprising merchants ot San Sal- vador that in view of the superior merit of the American fabrics they are inclined to make some sacrifices in order to introduce them perma- nently into these markets. T. T. TUNSTALL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, San Salvador, August 9, 1889. 36 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES SOUTH AMERICA. ARGENTINE REPUBLIC. - REPORT BY CONSUL BAKER OF BUENOS AIRES. All cotton goods consumed in the Argentine Republic are imported from abroad excepting a very small amount manufactured by hand looms in a few of the upper interior provinces, and which to some extent supplies the local demand. And as but little of the cotton fiber is raised in the country, and as there are no facilities for its fabrication I presume the Argentine Eepublic will go on receiving its supplies from other countries, l- to the end of the chapter." The annual supply, how- ever, does not vary very greatly in quantity or value. The following figures show the amount of the cotton imports for the last ten years: Tears. Amount. Years. Amount. 1878 $5, 555, 647 1883 $8 008 221 1879 5 213 852 1884 . ... 6 459 146 1880 5, 494, 043 1885 5 436 487 1881 6 489 270 1886 6 434 914 1882 7, 468, 451 1887 7 270 656 IMPORTATIONS OF COTTON GOODS. The following table gives a comparison of the kinds, quantities, and values of the importations for the years 1886 and 1887 : 1fi_J_ 1R ML 18 87. Quantity. Value. Quantity. Value. White cottons Do ...kilograms.. . ..... meters 5, 277, 485 1,654 195 $3, 688, 715 211, 961 7, 181, 859 $5, 078, 596 Printed, colored, and stamped cottons .. .kilograms.. 2, 292, 278 2, 534, 238 2, 456, 860 2, 192, 061 Since 1886 the duties on cottons have been assessed entirely accord- ing to their weights. I regret that I am not able to give the figures for the last year, but the custom-house statistics of the country for 1888 have not yet been published. WHENCE IMPORTED. As to the countries from which the cottons consumed in the Argen- tine Republic are imported, it is hardly necessary to say that the great bulk was from the British islands. Years ago Great Britain, by its su- perior trade methods, succeeded in securing the monopoly of the tex- COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 37 tiletradeof this country, and, although other nations have since managed to make small inroads upon it, she still continues to maintain her su- premacy. As showing how uniform has been the course of the cottons trade for the last ten years, I have compiled two tables, the first show- ing the countries from which the importations were made in 1878, and the second showing the same thing for 1887 : Imports of cottons into the Argentine Republic, 1878. Countries. Amount of meters. Value. Amount of kilograms. Valu . 687, 815 $90,819 31, 678 $18,135 898,886 131 850 26,368 15,334 United States 558 433 66 881 56 793 39 031 700 056 81*441 3 472 2,415 Italy 545, 533 51,419 3,118 1,870 En "land 18 217 070 1 897 866 1 759 553 1 285 283 Chili 1 762,102 178 683 177, 651 120, 530 Uruguay - • • 1, 409, 953 103, 679 73,468 48,024 214, 840 21 440 30,999 20,905 Transit 7, 819, 902 782 347 329, 092 597,685 Total 32, 805, 590 3 406 425 2, 992, 192 2, 149, 222 It will be seen that of the total value, $5,555,647, imported during the year 1878, England is credited with furnishing $3,183,149. But to this amount should be put down what in the above table is given to Chili, Uruguay and " transit" (the original shipments being from England), thus making a total of $5,014,097 furnished by England, and leaving only $541,538 as the amount furnished by all other countries; whereas the custom-house returns in the foregoing table puts white cottons and printed goods in the same category ; those for the year 1887 very properly separate the two. The following table shows the im- portations for 1887 : Imports of cottons into the Argentine Republic, 1887. Countries. "White cottons. Printed, stamped, and colored cottons. Quantity. Value. Quantity. Value. Germany Kilograms. 778, 070 376, 471 214, 115 260, 398 319, 473 4, 763, 083 323, 558 143, 691 $530, 233 309, 529 156,007 240,001 237, 399 3, 275, 350 215, 813 18,263 Kilograms. 67, 196 19,122 254,855 42,182 l!647 1, 874, 185 147, 910 49,763 $60, 476 17, 210 210, 688 37,964 1,584 1, 686, 766 133, 190 44,185 Belgium United States Fr^nC" , , .......... Italy . England Uruguay Other nations Total 7, 181, 859 5,078,595 2, 456, 860 2, 192, 061 Of the total value, $7,270,656, of the cottons imported during the year 1887, it will be seen that England is credited with furnishing $4,962,116; 38 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. but adding what is put down to Uruguay, the total furnished by Great Britain amounts to $5,311,117, against $1,959,539 furnished by all other countries. Comparing the present returns with those of ten years ago, it appears that Great Britain has somewhat lost ground, but it does not neces- sarily signify that her supremacy is any the less assured now than it was then. It further appears that during the same time the United States have more than trebled their imports of cottons, those of 1878 amounting to $105,912, and those of 1888 to $366,695. IMPORTS OF COTTON THREAD. In the above tables I have not taken into account the importations of cotton thread into the Argentine Republic. I give the folio wing- returns for 1887 : Importations of cotton thread into the Argentine Republic, 1887. Countries. Spools. Value. Dozens. 12, lf>6 $3,619 Belgium .... 25, 035 5, 862 United States 48 29 25, 690 7,570 Italy . 3, 150 1,890 1> 608, 795 400, H35 59,643 13,910 41, 820 10 329 Total . . 1 831 337 444, 174 Adding what is put down to Uruguay, we have England furnishing $414,875 worth out of a total of $444,174, while the United States is credited with importations of cotton thread to the amount of $29. WIDTHS, LENGTHS, AND WEIGHTS. In regard to the make-up and weights of the cotton textiles imported into the Argentine Republic there is such variety as to make itiimpossi- ble to give an exact statement. In these matters there is probably as little conformity to any fixed rules as you would find in the city of New York. There are no fixed weights ; and every mill that turns out such textiles for this market has its own figures. As elsewhere, while you will find on sale here cottons of the very heaviest weights, you will also find millions of yards in stock which are so made up of sizing that after a good washing there is scarcely anything left of them. I suppose, however, that ordinary cotton textiles will run from 2J pounds per piece of 20 yards up to 6 pounds of European make ; while pieces of 40 yards, mostly of American manufacture, will run from 8 pounds to 14 pounds per piece. The following note of a sale of cottons made by an import- COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 39 ing bouse a few days ago will give an idea of the range of weights, per- haps iu better form than I could otherwise state it : Pieces. Yarda. Net weight. 60 2 400 Pounds. 496 Do 60 2 400 528 Do 60 2,400 613 Do 60 2 400 734 Do 60 2,400 802 Gray drills 60 2 400 792 Blue drills 30 1 340 345 Bleached drills 30 899 290 Blue drills 30 1,356 463 Bleached aheetin"1 30 1 200 315 There is also the same variety in widths and lengths that there is in weights. The favorite width, however, is 32 inches, and the favorite length is 20 yards to the piece, this being the size which finds the most buyers among the people of the interior of the country. Except where otherwise ordered, the American cottons sent here are in pieces of 40 yards. But there will be found in stock here cotton textiles of all widths, all lengths, and all weights that are known to the trade. HOW PURCHASED. It may be said, with reference to all commercial transactions in this country, that credit is the rule rather than the exception. And the trade iu cotton goods is not one of the exceptions. All cottons bought in Europe are purchasecj on credit. The usual credit given by the cot- ton mills of England is six months, and the importers from France, Germany, and Belgium have a corresponding credit. While, however, six months is the specified time, it is no unusual thing for such bills to run unpaid for twelve and eighteen months; indeed, in many cases the manufacturers quite wait on the convenience of their Argentine custo- mers for their money. Perhaps the reason for this is the fact that the mercantile firms doing business here are, in many cases, branches of established houses in the business centers of the Old World, or are the immediate agents, if indeed not part owners, of manufacturing estab- tablishments in England and France. They are thus enabled to obtain their goods at times and in quantities to suit the trade, accompanied by the most favorable terms and credits. Besides this many wholesale houses in Buenos Ayres now have agents in Europe who, in consider- ation of the business put in their hands, give an open credit in propor- tion to the amount of business done ; and in this way a large trade which used to be transacted by importers does not now pass through 'their hands at all. Owing to these facilities for obtaining credit Argentine merchants are very independent, and they have no trouble in obtaining even more cotton goods than the trade calls for on pretty much their own terms. A case was related to me the other day where an English manufacturing company had waited two years on a house in thiscity for the payment of its overdue bills, and finally sent out an agent to collect 40 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. the amount, which reached to nearly $100,000. The agent was told to call on the next day, and the balance was promptly paid ; but when he asked for a new order it was respectfully declined on the ground that the house had just arranged better terms with another manufacturing company. This incident illustrates the unrelenting competition which exists among the manufacturers of Europe to obtain a market for their goods. It is this facility in getting long credits in Europe which, among other things, militates against the rapid increase, not only of the cotton, but of the general trade of the Argentine Kepublic with the United States. Except in a very few cases, where the financial standing of the importing house is above all criticism, I believe that American cot- tons are still sold here for cash, or for what is equal to cash — the goods in many cases being invoiced to some banking house to be delivered on the payment of the bills drawn against them. Of course, when the business of our manufacturers is thus done through a bank, which charges commissions and interest, or when they pay some banking house in Europe a commission for accepting their drafts, the remittance going through the same house, the intervention of so many middle-men makes the transaction expensive. But all this outlay and percentage is saved by the European manufacturers, who can afford to wait for their money, and in many cases the saving is equal to a fair profit on the goods. DUTIES CHARGED ON COTTONS. In regard to the duties charged on cottons I have to say that the Argentine customs tariff is not a continuing law, but runs only for the year for which it is enacted ; and that for the imposts levied by the Government the custom-house valuations on imported articles are offi- cially regulated and fixed by the executive department at the begin- ning of each year. The tariff and official valuations on cotton goods for the 1889 have been fixed as follows : Argentine cotton tariff — 1889. [Rate of duty 25 per cent.] Tariff classification. Unit. Custom-house valuation. Tariff classification. Unit. Custom-house valuation. i Ser^e Kilogram . do do $1.50 .90 $0. 80 to 1. 00 .24 .70 . 24 to 1. 50 2. 50 to 4. 00 2. 50 to 4. 00 .80 2. 00 to 3. 80 .80 .70 .80 .80 .'JO .H) 1.30 .43 Brilliantines and Kilogram . do do .. .. $4.00 .80 .75 1.00 2.00 to 4.00 .40 3.50 1.25 . 70 to 1. 60 2.00 1.00 . 80 to 1. 30 2.00 .70 2.00 .90 .so Alraanesques.... Colored twills Duck do Brauiant do Mantles and shawls. S'ockings . . ... ....do do do Counterpanes, imita- do Socks do Anti-Macassars . do Curtaius . .... . .. do Handkerchiefs and scarfs Pocket handker- chiefs ....do..... ...do .. Ticking Damasks , ....do ....do .... Drilling do do do Diaper . do Napkins .. do Blankets do do Prints of all kinds.... Satinets ...do .. do Velvet ........ ...do do Zephyr, muslins, etc. . Sheeting and twilled ....do do Veiling ....do Chintz do Checks do COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 41 Where the fabrics are mixed with wool they are classified as woolen goods, and pay duties accordingly. I would further state that the duties established by the foregoing tariff' are recharged with an addition of 1 per cent, fixed by the Law of the Estimates (Ley del presupuesto). CAUSES OF ENGLISH SUPREMACY IN THE TRADE. It will be seen from the statistics I have given in the foregoing tables that the great bulk of the cottons consumed in the Argeatine Republic continues to be imported from Great Britain, and that the United States are still without an assured foothold. The figures, however, of the last ten years show that our cottons trade with this country is gradu- ally growing into proportions which are not only encouraging but which render it well worth our while to make increased efforts for a better showing. From $105,912 of importations in 1878 to $366,695 in 1887 proves that there is a movement, although it may be a slow one, in the right direction. There are, however, several very serious obstacles which interfere with our headway, and against which we must continue to contend : (1) The cottons trade of the Argentine Republic, through all the years since the establishment of an independent government here, has become so firmly fixed, and is so irresistibly set towards Great Britain that it will require an uncommon effort to divert the steady stream from its present channel or, even in a measure to divide it. (2) Great Britain constantly keeps on hand in the bonded warehouses of the Argentine Republic such an oversupply of cotton goods that it will require more than ordinary inducements from outsiders, like our- selves, to obtain orders for more, especially when it is considered that the stocks on hand are not yet paid for. (3) The cotton millers of Great Britain are so thoroughly posted in reference to the styles, patterns, make-up, and general details of the Argentine market, a knowledge which they have obtained by long and persistent personal inspection of the field, that they have by long odds the advantage over those who are commercially isolated as we are from the Argentine Republic. (4) The trade methods of Great Britain, in the matter of regular steam communication, liberal banking facilities, and branch busines houses here in the Argentine Republic — in all of which essentials to a close and reciprocal trade we are so absolutely wanting — are so well estab- lished and are of such a permanent and reliable character as to almost defy outside competition. THE OUTLOOK OF THE TRADE. In spite, however, of these disheartening conditions, the cottons trade of the Argentine Republic is certainly deserving of the serious atten- tion of American manufactures. As I have heretofore said, in a report 42 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. to the Department, it is a trade which, in all the future years, must continue to offer a wider and wider field for the expenditure of enter- prise— a field in which there is no local competition and in which prob- ably there never will be any. It is a trade which is not only large now, but which must go on increasing with the growth and development of the country. And in the midst of the monopoly which Great Britain now enjoys, and of the unpromising prospect which is offered to the cotton-millers of the rest of the world, there is at least one circumstance very greatly in our favor, and that is that English cottons are not to be compared with those turned out by the mills of the United States — our fabrics commending themselves at once by their superior body and strength, and by their freedom from dirt and sizing. It is on this fact, and on this alone, that we are able at present to build any hopes of the future. Trade, we know, has a tendency, where other things are equal, to keep in its i% old rut," but it can be diverted by furnishing a better article as cheap. Let us proceed in the business on the line of the trade methods which have done so much for British commerce in South America, and the superiority of our cotton goods must eventually com- mand the1 market of the River Plate. LOST OPPORTUNITIES. I regret to have to say that if the sales of American cottons have in- creased here at all during the last ten years, it is not because our Amer- ican mills have done anything themselves to assist the situation. On the contrary they have even neglected to take advantage of opportu- nities when they offered. A few years ago one of the leading commer- cial houses of Buenos Ayres, well posted by many years' experience in all the details of the cottons trade, not only succeeded in successfully introducing American cottons to the notice of its customers but even pushed the trade overland into Bolivia, and, as the market at home was at that time dull and slow, our mills rejoiced in being able to fur- nish all that was required by the increasing demand down here. But what ensued ? Just then our home trade began to revive, and the very same mills, which had previously been so anxious to gain a permanent foothold in the Eiver Plate, coolly n plied to the orders for more cot- tons, that they had at present a market in the United States for all the cottons they could furnish, and that the orders from the Argentine Re- public could not be supplied ! The result was that, disgusted with this method of doing business, the importing house, which had worked so faithfully in the matter, was compelled to drop the American trade as unreliable, and go back again to English cottons. Our American mills must understand that, if they would establish a foreign market for tbeir fabrics, they can not temporarily suspend a trade which they have inaugurated, and then take it up again at their pleasure. The millers of Manchester do things better than that. If they have once caught on to the trade of any country they never let go or give it up. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 43 HOW WE MAY YET SECURE THE MARKET. In a report which I made to the Department nearly ten years ago I offered some suggestions in reference to the cottons trade with this coun- try, which, though they seem to have been neglected then, may per- haps have more weight now, and I therefore venture to repeat them: To secure a strong and permanent foothold in this market it is necessary that the American cotton manufacturers should do something more than send samples or ask consuls for information. The field is a large one, and it needs to be worked. The manufacturers should unite together and send an agent or agents here, not necessa- rily to sell or even to solicit orders, but to " spy out the land ; " to obtain exact in- formation in regard to the wants and demands of the market, the kinds of fabrics best suited to the trade, the number af yards to the piece, and the proper widths, the most satisfactory weights per yard, with such other points as experts in the business fully understand. Consuls, of course, are ready and willing to atf'ord their country- men all the assistance in their power, but it is not all of them who are sufficiently acquainted with the details of the business to be able to decide on the qualities of different fabrics or report on the most approved trade-marks. Our cotton mills, I am satisfied, can ultimately have the trade of the Argentine Republic in their own hands, to a very great extent, if they will quietly and systematically work for it; but to effect this it requires time, and, it may be, the expenditure of a little money for the expenses of agents to secure the " points" which the manufacturers must possess to work intelligently. Even then, however, almost an indispensable prerequisite to securing the Argentine market for cotton fabrics (as indeed for nearly all descriptions of dry goods) is the establishment of a direct line of steam-ships with tbe River Plate. I have referred to this subject so often that I hesitate further to enlarge upon it. It is next to impossible for American manufacturers, even with better goods to sell, to compete with the English market on equal terms without the advantage which sure and quick intercommunication affords. Since the opening of the ocean cable such large stocks of merchandise are not required to be held in this market. They are ordered by cable as they are needed, ami the saving of time and the dispatch with which orders can be tilled in England and other maritime countries of Europe will still give those markets the preference. When the fleet of ocean steamers by which Europe is connected with tLe River Plate can put down at this port goods ordered by cable in from twenty to twenty- five days, merchants here, however well disposed they may be, will hesitate about sending orders to the United States, know- ing that they can not be filled except by sailing vessels, which require from sixty to ninety days to make the voyage. Should an American line of steamers be put on direct to the River Plate, in my opinion it would not be long in working great changes if not a revolution in our trade, and especially our cottons trade with the Argentine Republic. Not only from selfish considerations, however, for the development of our foreign trade, but from a broad, political point of view, in its influence ic strengthening, confirming, and en- couraging this Republic in tbe promising career which is before it, it is to be hoped that our Government may see its way clear to assist such an enterprise. Our inter- est in the political prosperity of the South American Republics, nearly all of whose business associations are now monarchical instead of democratic, should prompt us, if possible, to bind our own to the Republics of the River Plate by the strong bonds of a mutual reciprocal trade. Commerce is the great civilizer and political missionary of the world, and the ideas and methods by which the United States have advanced to their present commanding position among the nations of the earth, if brought into close contact and communion with this country, could not fail to act and react most favorably upon its commercial, industrial, and political destinies. In no other way could we better spread and propagate the principles and ideas which have built us 44 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. up as a great nation, than by the secret, silent influences of a closer and more intimate intercourse. As it is, we are in a measure isolated from this port of South America. Its possibilities are a sealed book to us. Its heroic struggles against the fearful odds of the old Spanish conquest to rise to a higher level of civil and political freedom have thus far met with no recognition by us, except the cold sympathy of diplomacy. Let us show by practical methods the deep interest we take in the welfare and advancement of the Argentine Republic, and republican government, not only here but everywhere, will be the gainer, and we will be stronger and more firmly estab- lished by the re-assuring company of the strong republics we will see marching for- ward with us in the race of empire. Such are the triumphs in a national point of view which would result from the establishment of a regular line of steam-ships between the United States and the republics of the Eiver Plate, to say noth- ing of the stimulus which it would give to our trade, and especially our cotton trade, with this part of South America. But the future which would thus be opened up to our cotton-mills, by placing them on an equality in respect to transportation with those of Man- chester, can scarcely be estimated. And it is to be borne in mind that the trade which would thus be placed within the reach of our country is not for a day or for a season, but for all time to come, with an importance .which will increase with the growth and development of the Argentine Eepublic. E. L. BAKER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Buenos Ayres, August 19> 1889. BRAZIL. BAHIA. REPORT BY CONSUL BVRKE. Information on the first point in the circular, viz, "Quantity and kind of cotton textiles imported per annum," I found could best be obtained from the custom-house. Accordingly in this connection I inclosed a table of such importations covering the year ending Decem- ber 31, 1888. In this table, in addition to the quantity and the kind of cotton tex- tiles imported, the duties levied are also given, thereby covering the fifth point in the circular, viz, " Duties charged thereon." I might say right here that the number of cases for the year 1888 differs but little from each of the four years preceding, with the exception of 1885. In 1884 the number was 27,9G3 ; in 1885, 10,955 cases; in 1886, 23,589; in 1887? 22,098; in 1888, 28,895 The first six months of the present year show an importation of but 5,267 cases. The falling off is due chiefly to the hard times prevailing. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 45 Quantity, kind, and weight of cotton textiles imported into Bahia from January 1 to Decem- ber 31, 1888, unth the duty paid thereon. Kinds. Whence imported. Quantity. Duty. Cloaks, shawls, and handkerchi I ong-cloth piqn6 and prints . efs < Germany kilometers 80,925 338 27,964 7,158 40 8, 626 12,480 1,954,227 1,394 2,802 2,585 69 24,160 16 2,478 934 4,005 225 380 79 2,825 2,927 133 3,805 26,219 7 157 799 56 1,148 192, 332 2,994 75, 399 301, 953 5, 132 78 903 931 3 1,301 423 8 3 1,339 86 7,351 240,580 345 576, 109 361 1,058 8,359 236 1,168 1,187 41,554 61 9,817 684 2,519 310 8,178 6,036 102 1,819 25 2 898 223 76 612 10 5 1,041 118 677 1,939 2,575 1,399 661 1 Milreis. 158,453 812 58,534 57,937 80 17,772 24, 951 2, 812, 176 2,374 5,604 3,087 86 20, 179 78 2,743 1,292 4,042 225 3,922 792 24,654 11,540 333 13, 185 58,832 28 628 2,957 141 4,179 193,795 2,994 85,438 285,786 9,887 1,004 13, 759 1,342 4 2,977 4,316 102 5 2,089 138 12, 081 235, 510 817 406,061 541 1,317 8,750 423 2,443 4,715 35,541 258 14,943 960 10,628 784 35,541 ] 27, 182 16, 719 75 16 4,503 j 720 3,856 28 64 \ 4,221 1,302 \ 7,569 \ 5,464 Belgium do France do.... { \ England . do do Germany . do France do England do I United States.. Bef the official value of the goods. As storage on all goods entering the custom-houses of Brazil must be paid for at least one month, if the goods do not remain one hour, it is a mat- ter of interest to the exporter to know something of storage rates. Now, under the tariff regulations, there are eleven different razaos, rang- ing from 4 per cent, to 60 per cent., but as I only have to deal with two in this report, will endeavor to show the full force of the regulations on storage, or armazenagen, which is required to be calculated separately for each month. Under a razao of 12 per cent, the storage for each month 56 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. not exceeding two months will be 4.16 per cent, of the duty charged = for each month not exceeding four months, 8.32 per cent. ; for each month not exceeding six months, 12.48 per cent. ; and for each month exceeding six months, 16.64 per cent, of the duty ; so under a duty of 20 cents per kilogram the storage would in six months amount to 99.84 per cent, of the duty. On articles paying a duty of 20 cents per kilo- gram would be due for storage at the end of six months the sum of 19.96 cents per kilogram. The duty on articles followed by 15 per cent.razao pay for each month not exceeding two, 3.33 per cent, of the duty ; for each month not exceeding four, 6.66 per cent.; for each month not exceed- ing six, 10 per cent., and for each month over six, 13.33 per cent. By calculation it will be found that the storage for each month not to exceed two equals 0.5 per cent, of the official value of the goods ; for each month not exceeding four, 1 per cent, of official value; for each month not exceeding six, 1.5 per cent, of official value, and for each month exceeding six, 2 per cent, of official value of the goods. There are some minor expenses connected directly with the act of dispatching goods from the custom-houses, but if regulated by law the regulations are not generally followed, and I am unable to give information on that point. LEBBEUS G. BENNINGTON, Consul UNITED STA.TES CONSULATE, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, July 29, 1889. BRITISH GUIANA. REPORT BY CONSUL WALTHALL, OF DEMERARA. A circular from the Department of State, dated May 27, 1889, calls for information relative to cotton textiles imported into this consular district (as well as others), in reply to the following questions: 1. Quantity and kind imported per annum? 2. Weight per yard ? 3. How purchased f 4. Place of manufacture "and whence imported? 5. Duties charged thereon ? (1) No definite answer can be made to the first query, for the reason that the custom-house records include "linens and cottons" under one caption, without distinction between the two classes of goods, and it would be impracticable to ascertain the proportion of each without a close and minute examination of the original invoices — a task which would require much time and labor, even if the officers iii charge of COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 57 those papers sbonld be willing to submit them to the prolonged exam- ination that would be necessary. The " linens and cottons n imported into British Guiana during the year 1888 amounted to 5,108 packages — a package of cotton goods con- sisting of from 10 to 25 pieces of 40 to 50 yards each. The value of the whole, $609,703.85 Of this total, the United Kingdom furnished 4,861 packages, valued at $592,100.85. an'd the United States furnished 212 packages, valued at $16,051.28. The remaining 35 packages, valued at $1,542.72, were chiefly from the British West Indies, though partly from other countries and colonies. (2) The weight per yard, not being an element either in the purchase or sale of the goods, cannot be ascertained. (3) The goods are purchased by the yard in pieces of 40 to 50 yards each. (4) The British goods (cottons) are manufactured in Manchester and other places in Lancashire, England, and imported thence. The cot- ton goods from the United States are generally imported from New York or Baltimore. As far as can be ascertained, they are manu- factured chiefly in South Carolina, but partly in Massachusetts. (5) The duty on all linen and cotton goods is 7 per cent, ad valorem. W. T. WALTHALL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Demerara, August 26, 1889. DUTCH GUIANA. REPORT BY CONSUL BROWNE, OF PARAMARIBO. I am nnable to state the quantity of cotton textiles imported in this colony per annum, as no separate account of such is kept at the cus- tom house office in this city. The different kinds imported are, as far as I could learn, known under the names : Long cloth, croyden, shirting, unbleached cotton, twilight- cotton, and madapolanas. I could not succeed in learning the weight per yard, as of the above- named kinds different qualities are imported, and the merchants are not inclined to give such minute information. The cotton textiles used in this colony are shipped at the ports of Glasgow, London, and Amsterdam, and are manufactured in Manches- ter and Liverpool. The duties charged on cotton textiles are : 10 per cent, of the amount of first cost-price (packing, insurance, commission, etc., not included) 58 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. plus 20 per cent.; for instance, first cost-price $2 + 20 percent. = $2.40; 10 per cent, duties = 24 cents. The population of this colony amounts to 57,000, of which nine- tenths wear cotton clothes. THOMAS BROWNE, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Consul. Paramaribo, July 24, 1889. CHILI.* IQUIQUE. REPORT BY CONSUL MERRIAM. Immediately on receipt of the circular of May 27, 1889, concerning cotton textiles, I at once took steps to obtain the requisite data at the custom-house. 1 was treated very courteously and referred to the chief of the section on statistics, who offered me his hearty co-operation and promised to give me the information required as soon as the pressure of official business should permit. After waiting a proper time 1 reminded him of the subject, and on that occasion and several subsequent ones I was put off with plausible excuses, proffered with much politeness and apparent regret for his non-compliance with his agreement. On the last occasion referred to he expressed his regret that through inadvertence the re'sume' of statistics of importations had all been sent to Santiago, and that no copies had been preserved on file at the custom- house. I thanked him for his promise to have his subordinates go ovet the work again and extract the data required from the original mani- fests. The time named by him for the completion and delivery of the work has already expired more than fifteen days ago and I have given up all expectation of obtaining the information necessary to enable me to comply with the instructions of the circular. J. W. MERRIAM, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Iquique, Chili, November 6, 1889. * See foot note on. next page. CUTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 59 PERU.* CALLAO. REPORT BY CONSUL BRENT. In reply to the Department's circular of the 27th May last, regarding cotton textiles, I beg to report the following : Imports per annum $67,815 of all kinds, principally fine. Weight per yard from 2 to 3 ounces. Purchased in Germany for cash. Places of manufacture, England and Germany ; very little from the United States. Duties, 50 per cent, ad valorem. H. M. BRENT, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Callao, July 12, 1889. REPUBLIC OF COLOMBIA. BARRANQUILLA. REPORT BY VICE-CONSUL WKELPLEY. On complying with the request of the Department circular of May 27, in regard to the importation of cotton textiles, I found it necessary to compile the accompanying tabular forms from the custom-house records 1888. Table No. 1 gives names of the ports of shipment and monthly re- ceipts of cotton fabrics in kilograms 2,990,557. Table No. 2 gives the tariff classification, with the exception of classes 4, 11, and 15, there being but a small item in the two former and none * NOTE BY THE DEPARTMENT. — The export of cottons from the United Kingdom to Chili and Peru during the year 1888 were as follows: Description Chi] LL Pen 1. Yards. Value. Yards. Value. Piece goods, unbleached ......... . .. ..... 16 542 600 $840 866 8 597 900 $387 782 Piece goods, bleached Piece goods, printed and dyed 20, 477, 400 24, 913 500 1, 066, 294 1 468 206 11. 880, 200 20 155,800 615, 276 1 048 492 All other 6->9 &>Q 259 038 Total 4, 005, 192 2,310 588 60 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. in the latter. These omissions, principally mining fuse (No. 4), will ac. count for the difference of 397 kilograms between the tables Nos. 1 and 2. The limited space devoted to this report must exclude the mention of all and every article in the respective classes. The duty paid per kilogram on gross weight of packages is the national tariff j the ad- ditional 25 per cent, is the provincial. Table No. 3 comprises the data furnished by the principal importers of white goods and prints. Without making a full and complete list of ail the fancy names in use, I have endeavored to present an average variety in grade and quality. The names or brands are placed upon the goods at the option of the purchaser when ordering, or stencil plates are furnished by desire of the purchaser importing them. The same class that one house maybe selling as "KosaBlanca" or "Coloinbi- ana," may be "Elephante" or " La Lola" with another. In prints, purple tints prevail, 30 yards to the piece the general rule. The retail trader buys by the piece, but sells by the "varra;" the " varra " varies according to the distance from the coast towns. In remote, sparsely settled districts it often shrinks to 28 inches, but 30 and 32 inches are the ordinary retail measurements. S. M. WHELPLEY, Vice- Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Barranquilla, August 7, 1888. (1) Cotton fabrics imported in 1888. [Record of Barranquilla custom-house.] Whence imported. Whence imported. Whence imported. Antwerp . . ... Kilograms. 1 539 Kilograms. 140 ]06 Marseilles Kilograms. 2 943 Belfast 595 Havre T ..... 11 339 New York 39 277 Bordeaux 590 727 Paris 54 573 Bremen 6,374 Liverpool ..... 599 148 91 701 Barcelona 218 London .......... 138, 477 San Nazaire 16 549 15 943 Malaga 163 Cadiz 143 Manchester 1, 866, 800 Total 2 990 557 Colon 3 346 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. (2) Cotton fabrics imported at Barranquilla in 1888. [Classification by tariff] 61 Whence imported. Candle wick, fifth class, 10 cents. Lamp wick, sixth class, 20 cents. Thread, eighth class, 40 cents. White cottons, ninth class. 50 cents. Colored cotton prints, tenth C!HHS, 60 cents. Kilogram*. Kilogramt Kilogramt. 242 Kilogramt. Kilogramt. 300 295 337 2,516 1,000 1,274 7,889 7,000 143 1,750 1,000 1,373 6,280 50,000 51,881 Havre 431 4,000 2,534 113 291 724 14,888 270, 506 284,506 739 357 904 100,000 31,964 163 .846 1,170 36, 410 974, 412 800, 427 Marseilles 231 78 2 123 New York 295 355 220 500 231 Paris 995 1 733 12 940 18 793 3 573 46,000 40, 030 158 938 1,160 4, 100 2 171 5 363 68 °13 1 470 457 1 246 914 Whence imported Handker- chiefs, shawls, ponchos, twelfth class, 80 cents. Hosiery, corsets, ready-made clothing, thirteenth class, 90 cents. Braid and twist, batting, etc., fourteenth class, $1. Total. Kilogram*. Kilogram*. 1,297 Kilograms. 1 539 Belfast 595 178 75 590 870 714 6 374 218 218 505 549 15 943 Cadiz 143 Colon 5% 3 346 Hamburg ..................... 13, 826 16 662 84 140 106 Havre 36'' 4, 012 11 339 Havana . ........ . .... 614 727 15 307 12 926 599 148 3 445 1 068 138 477 Malaga 163 Manchester 38,056 15 545 1 866 866 Marseilles 146 365 2 943 New Yoik 1 454 36 922 39 277 Paris 1 538 18 029 78 54, 106 Southampton 1 451 657 91 711 3 064 7 129 16 549 Total 80 816 116 064 162 2,990 160 Total duties paid. Fifth clans *$542.75 Sixth class 1,340.77 Eighth class 34,104.80 Ninth class 919,035.65 Tonth class 935,185.50 Twelfth class 80,816.00 Thirteenth class 143,322.00 Fourteenth class 162. OC Aggregate 2,114,809.41 •The Colombian dollar (pesos) a 68 cents American. 62 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. (3) White and colored cottons imported at Barranquilla. [Prices given are the prices per piece at Manchester. Duties payable by kilogram on gross weight of bale, 25 per ceat. Provincial duty being added to the national tariff rate.] Local name. From. Weight of bale. Pieces in bale. Yards in piece. Width. Weight of piece. Prices. WHITE. * Rosa Blanca Man Chester ....... Kilo- grams. 180 100 20 Inches. 31 Lbx. oz. 4 0 S D. 4 1 do 190 100 20 35 4 4 4 4 .. do 165 100 20 31 3 10 3 H La Perla do 173 100 20 35 4 0 4 1 do . 93 100 20 21 2 2 1 10 do 206 100 20 40 4 8 4 Ci ...do 80 100 20 22-23 2 0 2 9 do 140 100 20 30 3 8 3 do 123 100 20 23 3 4 2 61 do 200 100 20 33 4 8 4 6 do 144 100 20 27-28 3 0 3 1 Savage Mills (duck) United States 264 24 50 29 8 0 COLORKD.t Manchester 70 60 30 22-23 5 8 3 4 81 60 30 22-23 5 4 4 10 do 58 100 30 23 4 2 3 5 Holancillos Morados Zarazas Fantasia ....do do 96 72 88 66 30 30 23 22-23 5 12 5 1 5 6 4 3 do 73 64 30 24 5 4 4 7 Do do 60 50 30 22-23 5 0 5 6 * Duty, 50 cents per kilogram ; ninth class ; purchased for cash, t Duty, CO cents per kilogram ; tenth class ; purchased for cash. CARTHAGENA. REPORT BY CONSUL MAOMASTER. Over 550 tons (554,433 kilograms) of cotton textiles were imported during the fiscal year 1889, of which a little over 1 ton (1,258 kilograms) came from the United States. It is within my personal knowledge that American cotton goods are preferred by the consumers of Colombia, but the refusal of American manufacturers to cut their " prints " in pieces 30 yards long, renders their sale impossible in these markets. ^ As all duties in Colombia are charged on the gross weight of the pack- age, goods should be packed in the lightest way consistent with their preservation during transport. Cotton textiles generally come in iron- banded bales, with a layer of water-proof cloth (or paper) under the outer sacking. When destined for the interior, the bales should strictly conform in weight and size to the directions sent with the order. Table A gives number of pieces a bale for this port should contain, yard- age, etc. " Zarazas " (ordinary calicoes) must be 30 yards long and seven- eighths wide, as the bulk of these goods is used by the poorer people, who make three dresses from each piece of this length and width. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 63 Where lengths or widths are given in table, goods must conform thereto, if manufacturers expect to sell in these markets. I transmit (in a separate envelope) twenty-seven samples of " prints" and a sample of white goods ; prices are marked on these samples, which also show the quality, width, and designs in demand. The usual credit given in England is six months from date of invoice, in special cases, nine months. A discount of 1£ per cent, is allowed on prices quoted herein, and a further discount of 2.J per cent, for cash. No data concerning net weight per yard are kept. I therefore weighed several pieces, and place the weight of such pieces in the table. Considerable weight is added by filling the goods with foreign sub- stances; the weights would be less after washing the goods. Judging from my experience, during a residence of nearly twenty-two years. American prints would soon control the South American mar- kets, if the manufacturers would cut their pieces to the lengths required, and pack their goods properly. American shirtings and sheetings are much preferred, but no trade can be built up until the manufacturers make their pieces of the lengths in demand. 8-8, 10-8, and 12-8 wide domestics are especially liked. W. B. MACMASTER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Carthagena, August 1, 1889. Statement* showing Ihe imports of cotton goods at Carthagena for the fiscal year 1889. A. DESCRIPTION. Articles. Pieces in each bale. Contents of each piece. "Weight per yard. Price. 100 Yards. 20 Ounces. 4 2 to 6 shillings. Crehuelas (Cregiiplas) 50 30 2 2£ to 5 pence. 100 18 3 2 to 5 shillings Dril (drill) 24 •AD 4 4 to 8 pence. Fulas (blue shirting) 40 20 2 2 to 4 shillings. Liencellott (domestic shirting) 100 18 4 2 to 5 shillings. Lintados (checks) 50 21 2 5 to 7 marks. Mnselinas (muslins) 200 10 2 5 to 6 shillings Olancellos (prints) ................ 60 30 1* 4 to 5 shillings. Zarazas (prints) .... 50 30 if 5 to 7 shillings. Taladello (tape) 200 Meters. 100 3 francs Camiaas (shirts) 25 Dozens. 30 to 40 francs. Canii.sefus (undershirts) 40 do 30 do Mediae (stockings) 100 do 2 to 12 shillings 200 do Pafiolones (shawls) 100 do Iluanas (ponchos) ... 50 do 1 to to 2 shillings Toallas (towels) 50 do Trencellas (braid) 200 do 64 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. B. WHENCE IMPORTED.* Articles. Amberes. Belfast. Brad- ford. Bremen. Dundee. Glasgow. Ham- burg. London. 3 147 37 530 Cregiietas 43 Drill 3 342 ''O: 7 953 11 Checks 9 162 290 737 Prints 56 Shifts 697 1 436 10 835 83 1, 6°0 16 ie 421 Handkerchiefs 477 326 983 676 Shawls 224 3, 112 605 355 Braid Prints . .. Totals 7,560 205 3,434 4,731 37, 530 2,709 14, 874 20, 645 C. WHERE MANUFACTURED.' Articles. Liver- pool. Manches- ter. Milan. New York. Paisely. Paris. Totals. Duty in kilo- grams. 217, 949 258, 626 $0.65 7 894 8 466 50 134 39 736 39 870 50 Brill 1.725 133 352 13 710 .75 Blue shirting 1, 242 1,242 .75 Domestic shirting 161 111 949 .62* Checks 1,748 18, 240 .75 Muslins 851 1 878 1 10 Prints 16, 396 17. 147 .75 Shirts 144,501 157, 469 .75 D~n dersbirts 628 73 2 404 1.10 2 919 1 690 5 062 1 50 Tape 194 220 414 90 Stockings 110 110 1 10 Handkerchiefs 3,231 156 786 6 635 1.00 Shawls 1 885 8 039 13 865 75 Ponchos . ..... 3 172 2 488 6 015 1.00 593 593 1 00 Braid 406 406 1 00 Prints 90 90 LOO Dresses 297 304 614 i 242 1 00 Totals 2 180 452, 498 133 1 258 156 6 520 554 433 * There are some omissions in the details in tables B and C, but the totals arc cor&ct COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 65 PANAMA. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL ADAMSON. My report upon cotton textiles imported into this district, which is called for in circular instruction of May 27, 1889, has been delayed in the hope that some information of possible value might be obtained, Thus far, however, my earnest efforts have failed to procure any im- portant information. IMPORTS. The local government does not keep records to show the quantity, kind, or value of the textile fabrics or other goods imported here, this being a free port. The merchants who might be expected to be able to estimate the value of such imports do not show any willing- ness to mention an estimate. This may be explained thus : During the flourishing times of the canal enterprise, the imports were large, prob- ably much larger than the Government officials supposed. The com- mercial tax was enormously high, and would, perhaps, have been in- creased had it been known how large the importing business really was. The merchants have, therefore, always been reticent as to the amount of their imports. I think it probable that the value of the cotton textiles imported here from all countries, during 1888, approached nearly $1,000,000, and I doubt its amounting to one-fifth of that sum in 1889. In fact, there is such a stagnation in business here, owing to the fail- ure of the Canal Company, and such an excess of supply over the de- mand, that imports- must almost entirely cease for some time. KINDS IMPORTED. The kinds of cotton textiles imported here are principally bleached and unbleached shirtings and sheetings, printed calicoes, and a moder- ate quantity of colored drillings, denims, and various goods for men's wear, and that light class of goods for women's use which is known to the dry-goods trade in the United States as " white goods," and which embraces cambric, muslins, lawns, etc. The bulk of the cotton textiles imported consists of bleached and unbleached shirtings and sheet- ings and fancy prints. As to the weight per yard, it would be no guide to American manu- facturers to state weights, for the goods intended for the local trade are chiefly of inferior cloth, heavily weighted with starch, clay, and other substances used for that purpose, as the trade may demand. All the cotton goods imported for local consumption are weighted with for- eign substances, because it gives them a seeming body, and as there are no customs duties on goods brought to this Isthmus the cost is not in- creased to the dealer. But Panama sells goods to the ports of the Department of Cauca, which embraces thr whole west coast of Colombia, 66 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. south of the department of Panama, and in those ports duties are col- lected and are charged on the weight. It follows as a matter of course that the Panama merchant orders the goods for his trade with Cauca to be made of light weight, and a light starching gives the requisite finish without the weight given by other processes of load- ing. I have examined prints weighing 2 ounces per yard and others of similar cloth weighing 1J ounces to the yard, so that stating the weight gives no indication of the quality. The buyers here, as in the greater part of Spanish America, are not judges of quality, and their past ex- perience with poor goods does not teach them the greater cheapness of a good article even at a higher nominal price. HOW PURCHASED. Cotton goods are generally purchased on a credit of six months, for which a commission is paid to the Manchester agent of 3 per cent., ami interest of 5 per cent, per annum on account current not paid at matu- rity. WHERE MANUFACTURED. The greater part of the cotton goods sold in Panama are imported from England, being manufactured at Manchester. A fair trade was growing up in American cotton fabrics, but advanc- ing prices there, higher rate of exchange here, and other causes here- inbefore mentioned have nearly closed this market against American goods. DUTIES. There are no import duties levied at the ports of this isthmus, and as to the duties in other ports of the Republic, the consuls at the duty ports will report. HOW TO INCREASE AMERICAN TRADE. The buyers are also very conservative about changing styles of goods and ignorant of the laws of trade, consequently they adhere fpr a long time to accustomed articles or styles and resist advance in price. When, therefore, cotton rises in price or the currency depreciates in exchange value, the dealer can not put up his prices, but in sending a fresh order he directs his Manchester commission merchant to send the same pat- tern put up in the old way but with one or two threads less in the square inch or a trifle less in width, and consequently at a rate that enables him to appear to sell the same goods at the old price. Importers here say that American manufacturers will not do these things ; that they will not cut the prices to the lengths they may de- mand, and that they will not pack as the trade of various sections may require, COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 67 It may not be out of place here to remark that local dealers who are good judges freely admit the superiority of American cotton goods and even the greater cheapness of certain kinds when quality is considered. For instance, two of the most prominent dealers told me they had sent samples of the best pink and purple Merrirnac prints to Manchester, England, and that they could not have them duplicated there at the American price. But this market does not require many goods of such superior quality, and in the inferior grades Manchester can undersell the United States. This may partly be owing to the fact that lower grades of cotton are used there and partly to the other fact that American manufacturers are not such adepts in the art of a weighting n goods. If our manufacturers seriously wish to build up trade with Spanish America, they should come in person and see exactly what these coun- tries demand. The writer of this was bred to the dry-goods business, and can assure his countrymen that they can learn very many useful points by personal observation which they would fail to obtain even though they should read a thousand pages of consular reports on the subject of cotton goods, and those things are what they should know in order to compete for foreign business. THOMAS ADAMSON, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Panama, July 13, 1889. VENEZUELA. i LA GUAYRA. REPORT BY CONSUL BIRD. KIND IMPORTED. Owing to the fact that no digested records of imports into Venezuela are obtainable, it is quite impracticable to approximately state the quantity of goods imported. Even though a customs officer should be employed to collate the statistics, it would be impossible to separate the imports of cotton goods from linen and woolen fabrics, and hence any figures he might offer would be unsatisfactory. Ail the staple cot- ton goods in fair quantities are imported into Venezuela. WEIGHT. The weight of all classes of imported cotton goods is so variable ac- cording to kind and quantity that it is deemed unnecessary to furnish 68 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. any figures ; all kinds and qualities, from the lightest to the heaviest, are imported. HOW PURCHASED. Goods are purchased by order from samples on six months' credit, with interest added. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. The great bulk of staple cotton goods imported here is manufactured in England and shipped from Liverpool and Southampton. Many of the finer fabrics are made in France and are imported from Havre and St. Nazaire. The cheaper light-weight staple goods come from Ger- many through the port of Hamburg. About all the ducks, drills, denims, and first-class heavy-weight white goods come from the United States and all are imported from New York. The English and French prints are much superior to those of the United States in delicacy and variety of figure and color, and hence those countries import quite all of that class of goods. DUTIES. Duties are levied on the gross weight of packages, and an additional tax of 12£ per cent, on the amount of duty collected is levied for inter- nal revenue. These duties vary according to the quality of goods, as follows : Canvas, duck, twine, furniture cloths and sails pay $6.63 per 100 pounds. Brown cottons, unbleached osnaburgs, and domestic and regatta stripes pay $10.06 per 100 pounds. Unbleached drilling, ginghams, bleached shirting, sheeting, and hoi- lands pay $22.12 per 100 pounds. Knit underwear, socks, and stockings, bombazine, table-covers, bed- spreads, damask, fustians, table-cloths, nainsook, towels, doylies, hand- kerchiefs, percales, pique's, poplins, and calicoes, pay $44.23 per 100 pounds. Shirts, zephyr, gauze, curtains, corsets, shawls, gloves, grenadines, lawns, garters, insertions, laces, fringes, velveteen, muslins, organdies, and tarletans pay $88.46 per 100 pounds. Ready-made clothing of all kinds pays $176.92 per 100 pounds. WINFIELD S. BIRD, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, La Guayra, June 24, 1880, COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 69 PUERTO CABELLO. j;i PORT BY CONSUL DE KLANO. QUANTITY AND KIND IMPORTED PER ANNUM. There are no official data concerning the quantity and kinds of cotton goods imported inro Venezuela. In the statistics which are published yearly by the minister of finance at Caracas the total amount of duties collected on imports at eacli custom-house of the Republic is given, but no details as to the kinds of goods imported or their quantity are furnished. The last report of the minister of finance for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1889, states that the total duties collected at the port of Puerto Cabello on imports during that year amounted to 11,844,721.46 bolivares (*2,277,S31.04 American gold), but it gives no information with respect to the value or kinds of goods upon which these duties were levied. If it be true, as the principal merchants at this port have assured me, that the duties on imported merchandise in Venezuela average 54 per cent, of the cost price, we may calculate the total value of the imports at Puerco Cabello for the year above stated at about $4,218,205.62 (American gold), but there is still no means of ascertaining the amount of each kind of goods composing this aggregate. In the absence of official statistics with regard to the quantity and kinds of cotton goods imported into this consular district, I have had recourse to private sources ; and, as the importing business in that class of goods at this port is almost exclusively in the hands of five leading houses, who have very courteously given me all the information I asked of them, I am enabled to state approximately the quantity and accurately the kinds imported. The total quantity of cotton textiles imported into this consular dis- trict yearly is estimated at $2,500,000 (American gold), distributed as follows: From Great Britain, 81,200,000; Germany, $600,000; France, 6400,000 ; United States, 8300,000. The following list shows the kinds of goods imported and the class of the tariff to which they belong: List of cotton goods imported into this district. Articles. Class. Articles. Class. T'ndfrshirts white, brown colored 6 Victoria lawn, white 7 '•fl :u:d checked 5 White shirtings 5 Stockings ami socks white, brown colored 6 Mu.iliiis white colored .... 7 Shirts v.hitr colored 7 4 ;:i8, striped 5 Towels 6 Collars white coinicd 8 Xets 7 (Mitt's, white, colored 8 Dowlas white..... .... 5 i. ri ;i v sheetings . 5 6 White drills ' 5 5 T'rint.-d drills . 5 6 I'rinted duck g ii 7 Curt.iui-iiets white colored 7 70 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The two articles most largely imported into this consular district are prints (Zarazas, duty sixth class) and white shirtings (Madapollam, duty fifth class). Prints, 26 to 30 inches wide, are imported almost exclusively from England (Manchester) at a price which varies from If to 4d. (3J to 8 cents) per yard. The most salable are those which do not cost over 2J to 3d. (5 to 6 cents). Pink, and especially u purple pad," are the favorite colors, although " fancy styles " are likewise largely sold. Some houses here have tried to introduce American prints, but the experiment has not proved successful, either because they are not of the width to which the people are accustomed, having 24 to 25 inches in- stead of 26 to 30, as the English prints, or because, considering this shorter width, they are dearer. Besides, the designs or patterns are too sober for the tastes of the people, who are accustomed to the bright colors and great variety of styles of the English and French prints. White shirtings.— This article is mainly, almost exclusively, imported from England. The kinds which sell most in this port and the adjacent country, are : Madapollams, 31 to 37 inches, 1 J- to 2f $. per yard ; Savajes 28 to 32 inches, 2 to 2$d. per yard. Domestics and drills. — These goods are imported largely from the United States, and some also from England ; but the preference is given to the United States because, as one of the largest importers said to me, " people are confident of getting always the same honest quality." The following kinds are those which are chiefly imported : Gray or brown sheetings, gray or brown drills, printed cotton duck, printed cotton drills, duty fifth class ; gray duck, 44 inches, Nos. 5 and 6, Stark mills gray duck, 28 to 30, duty fourth class ; blue stripes, 27 inches, at 4J to 6 cents per yard, duty fifth class. Of the above-mentioned gray or brown sheetings those which are chiefly imported into this district are : Massachusetts C, 27 to 28 inches, at 4 cents ; P, 26 to 27 inches, at 3f cents ; J, 27 to 28 inches, at 4J cents. Of the gray or brown drills, Massachusetts D K, 27 to 28 inches, at 6 cents ; Appleton, 29 to 30 inches, at 6£ cents. And of the printed ducks and drills, Bedford A, 24 to 25 inches, at 6J cents ; thistle duck A, 27 to 28 inches, at 12£ cents ; drills B F D, 25 to 26 inches, at6£ cents ; duck B B, 26 to 27 inches, at 11 j cents. Blue stripes or regattas are also imported from England, and to a greater extent than from the United States. Cotton blankets (duty fifth class) white, colored, and striped, 52 by 72 inches and 54 by 75 inches, are also imported here from the United States at prices varying from 65 to 85 cents per blanket; but a larger importa- tion of different qualities and descriptions is made from England and Germany. Cotton colored handkerchiefs, duty sixth class, of varied descriptions are largely imported from Great Britain, principally from Glasgow, at COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 71 7 pence to 4 shillings per dozen, and from Germany, (called "Madras," and " Piguas ") at 4 to 5 marks per dozen. Cotton stockings and socks, duty sixth class, are brought largely from England and from Germany. Those made of fil d'Ecosse thread pay a higher duty, viz, seventh class. Sewing thread, duty fifth class, is an article considerably imported into this district (it comes almost exclusively from Glasgow), viz, white sewings on reels 6-cord at 200 yards. No. 30, 40, 50, 60, at 10«. 6d. No. 8, at 11*. 2rf. White cotton balls, No. 50 to 150, at lljtf. No. 30 to 120, at lOJd. Cotton undershirts, white and striped, duty sixth class, are imported from England, at 6 to 14 shillings per dozen. Germany, at 8 to 15 marks per dozen. Spain at 7J to 14 pesetas per dozen. The middling qualities are those which are in demand ; colored and striped do not sell as well. WEIGHT PER YARD. All inquiries with respect to the weight per yard of the different cot- ton textiles imported into this district have failed to elicit a satisfac- tory reply. The commerce of Puerto Cabello takes no special notice of the weight except as it affects the amount of the duties to be paid. In that respect all the firms I have consulted agree that American goods generally weigh more than European goods. " The prints are too heavy and too good for this market ; " "On all white goods the United States pay higher duty than English goods, " are the answers which I have obtain- ed on all sides. One of the largest importers of cotton goods estimates the duty on English prints at 40 per cent.; on American, at 60 to 70 per cent. ; on drills, the duty on American is 40 per cent. ; on English, not quite 34 per cent. The same informant tells me that samples of American white goods have been sent to England, where they are made lighter to suit this market. HOW PURCHASED. Purchases are made in England, France, and Germany on terms of credit ranging from three up to nine months ; but the most usual is six months, counting from the date of the invoice. These credits bear in- terest at the rate of 5 per cent, per annum. The usual commission to agents for purchasing is 2J per cent., and the buyer gets all discounts allowed to agents by the manufacturers. These discounts, on cotton textiles, are : In England, 1 \ to 5 per cent.j in France, 2 £ to 6 per cent. ; in Germany, 2 to 6 per cent. 72 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. DUTIES CHARGED THEREON. Duties in Venezuela are entirely specific, and are levied on the gross weight of packages. All foreign merchandise is divided into nine classes, on which duties are collected as follows : Class. Duty per kilogram. Class. Duty per kilogram. First Bolivars. Free. Sixth Bolivars. '2 50 Second ......... .... .10 Seventh. 5 00 Third 25 Eighth 10 00 Fourth .75 Ninth :.. . 20 00 Fifth 1 25 The above duties are collected by the "aduana maritima"; the im- porter has to pay, besides, 12J per cent, of the amount thereof to the " aduana terrestre." The duties are payable in cash; but the importer may obtain six months7 credit by furnishing his bond, with two sureties, approved by tbe administrator of the custom house. In that case he pays 1 per cent, interest on the amount of his bond for each month of credit. CONCLUSION. From the testimony of all the importers with whom I have con- versed (none of whom are Americans, but nearly all Germans) two facts may be considered as established : (1) That American cotton textiles are superior in every respect to the fabrics which are introduced into this consular district from Europe, chiefly from England and Germany. (2) That the present tariff of Venezuela on gross weight 'discrimi- nates against American textiles, which, on account of their superior quality, are much heavier than the English and German goods. Under these circumstances, our manufacturers find themselves under the necessity of choosing between the two following courses : (1) To change their methods, and make the same class of inferior goods as are imported from Germany and England ; or — (2) Discarding immediate profit, and looking to future and lasting results, persevere in their honorable course in the full confidence that honesty is the- best policy and will win in the long run. CHARLES DE BLANC, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Puerto Cabcllo, August 14, 1889. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 73 WEST INDIES. BRITISH WEST INDIES. ANTIGUA. HE PORT BY CONSUL JACKSON. Upon the matter of cotton textiles imported into the consular district of Antigua I have to report that, owing to the want of statistics at the custom-house, the correct number of yards can not be ascertained. All imports of cotton goods are placed under the head of u cottons, woolens, and linens/' and no separate values are rendered. The whole amount of invoiced value of imports of fabrics, excepting silks, for the year ended December 31, 1888, was 890,408.48; of this amount it is es- timated fully 75 per cent, may be credited to imports of cotton fabrics, mostly confined to calicoes, bleached and unbleached cottons. The value of cotton goods imported from the United States for the above period amounted to $1,248.66 only. These goods were confined to ducks and denims, and were purchased much cheaper there than they could be purchased for in Manchester, and the trade has been diverted to the United States in consequence. All cotton goods imported come from Manchester, England, and the United States, and pay a duty upon entry of 6| per cent, ad valorem. Three months' time is generally given from Manchester, or 5 percent, off for cash, while goods from the United States come through general commission houses which give thirty to sixty days' time. In order to present a fair and suggestive view of the situation of the trade in cotton goods in Antigua, I submit a list of samples, obtained from one of Antigua's merchants, which I had analyzed by the Govern- ment analyst there, and which covers the merchant's importations for the year 1888, and which is estimated to cover one-eighth of the busi- ness done in that line in Antigua for that year. CHESTER E. JACKSON, Consul. HOLLEY, N. Y., September 18, 1889. WHITE COTTONS (SHIRTINGS OR BLEACHED). No. of sample. Price per yard at manufac- tory. Width. Weight of 1 yard. Weight of dress- ing in 1 yard. Percent- age of dressing. No. of yaids iin- ^wea 1 3 4 5 Cent*. 3* P Inches. 33 25 Qraint. 872 1,038 1,260 1,453 771 Grains. 163 77 213 210 270 18.7 7.4 16.9 14.5 34.9 54,321 29, 328 63, 372 43, 656 14, 368 74 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. FEINTS (CALICOES). No. of sample. Price per yard of manufac- tory. Width. Weight of 1 yard. Weight of dress- ing in 1 yard. Percent- age of dressing. No. of yards im- ported t1888. 0 7 8 8a Cents. H ft 4£ Inches. 2B| 2PJ 28i 28J Grains. 1,093 1,167 1,439 1,203 Grains. 240 456 28 519 22.0 39.1 2.0 43.2 11, 389 12, 689 2,436 108, 504 BKOWN COTTONS (LIKE UNBLEACHED). 9 3i 24£ 1,625 640 39.4 54,782 10 30| 2,671 988 37.0 7,876 11 3j 23 1,541 772 50.1 48, 672 12 4g 28 1,958 662 33.8 14, 796 13 3 23 1,350 499 37.0 11, 628 a Weight of cloth taken after drying at 212° Fall. FHANCIS WATTS, F. C. S., Government Analyst. GOVERNMENT LABORATORY, Antigua, West Indies, August 17, 1889. ANGUILLA. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT RET. It seems impossible, even after a careful examination, to arrive at a correct estimate of the quantity, expressed in yards, of the cotton goods imported into this island, for the reason that almost every boat and sloop trading to the neighboring islands brings back goods bought by the crew for the use of their friends or family, and wnen entered their values alone are given. Exact figures being therefore out of the ques- tion, we must depend for information on the subject on as close an ap- proximation as may be made in the circumstances. All cotton fabrics imported here for the year ending 30th June, ul- timo, with exception of a small parcel of blue and of white ducks, of the value of $250, from the United States via St. Thomas, were manufact- ured in Manchester, and imported from London via St. Kitts, and con- sisted of prints, shirtings, domestics or greys, checks, lawns, lace, and trimmings. The goods are usually paid for in three months, but the shippers al- low very indulgent terms to the buyers who, besides freight and charges, pay an ad valorem duty of 8 per cent, on all importations. During the year under review — July 1, 1888, to June 30, 1889 — there were imported by the regular dealers 62,432 yards of cotton goods, vary- ing in weight between 2£ and 3J ounces per yard, and in width between 27 and 36 inches, and 4,000 yards of cotton lace and trimming. And, as COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 75 the boatmen bring home more than half the goods imported by the dealers, we may safely put at 95,000 to 100,000 yards, the cotton goods brought to this island during the past year. WAGER REY, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Anguilla, July 10, 1889. BAHAMAS. REPORT BY CONSUL M'LAIN, OF NASSAU. QUANTITY AND KIND IMPORTED. There are no data obtainable to enable me to state with precision the quantity of cotton textiles imported into this colony per annum. The customs authorities can give me no reliable figures, for the reason that cotton goods are not entered for duty under that name, but are entered indiscriminately with woolens, linens, silks, hardware, boots and shoes, earthenware, and sundry other merchandise, styled " articles paying an ad valorem duty of 20 per centum ;" nor are the local merchants to whom I have applied for assistance able to give satisfactory replies. The only information bearing upon this point that I can furnish is to say that after a thorough examination of the subject, including the opinions of well-informed dealers, I believe I can safely state that the total value at wholesale prices of cotton textiles imported into this colony during the past year is about $200,000. As to the kinds of such textiles imported, they may in general terms be specified as follows, viz : bleached and brown cottons, prints, muslins, ducks, denims, cot- ton flannels, and jeans. WEIGHT PER YARD. As merchants here do not order their cottons by weight per yard when ordering from the United States, I can not ascertain the weight of American cottons. The purchaser, as a rule, designates what he wishes to buy by giving the width in inches and the price he is willing to pay. Nearly all American cottons are also known by certain names, perhaps the name of the manufacturer, or of the mills, or by some fancy name, and these are used by the merchants here in ordering. In fact, I have observed from the price lists sent here by our manufacturers that they largely designate their cottons by width and price or name, and seldom, if ever, give weight per yard. With British manufacturers the custom, at least for colonial pur- poses, is to give width, weight per piece, and price, though merchants here are not in the habit of mentioning the weight when ordering. The 76 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. following table, furnished by merchants here, will show the weight of .some of the cottons sent here from England : Kind. Width. Yards in piece. "Weight per piece. Printers Indies. 26 58 5 pounds 12 ounces to 8 pounds. Do 32 47 6 pounds to 7 pounds. Do . 34 50 7 pounds 8 ounces to 10 pounds. Do 36 50 9 pounds 4 ounces to 11 pounds 8 ounces. 32-34 47 6 pounds to 7 pounds. 36 36 7 pounds to 8 pounds "DO . ... 39 36 8 pounds to 9 pounds. 39 371 5 pounds 4 ounces to 9 pounds 4 ounces. Do 45 37* 6 pounds to 10 pounds 8 ounces. Do 50 37* 9 pounds to 11 pounds. Jaconets 89 20 1 pound 14 ounces to 2 pounds 14 ounces. Do 44 20 2 pounds 12 ounces to 3 pounds 4 ounces. Mulls 39 20 1 pound 1 ounce to 2 pound**. Do 44 20 2 pounds 1 ounce. HOW PURCHASED. The bulk of the cotton goods imported are bought of jobbers and commission houses, or through agents located in the United States and Great Britain. In the United States cash or short credit is expected. In England very much long time credit is given, some large firms keeping an open account with customers and charging small rates of interest on balances after six mouths. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. The cottons sold here are manufactured mostly in Great Britain and the United States, fully two-thirds being imported from America. A few French and German goods are imported through London houses. DUTIES. A uniform duty of 20 per cent, ad valorem is imposed upon all cot- ton goods imported, without reference to the country whence they may come. REMARKS. I The trade in cotton goods for a number of years has been slowly drifting from Great Britain to the United States, until now fully two- thirds of all these articles are imported from the latter. The causes of this change are many. Our market is nearer; exchange is cheaper on New York than London ; we have steady and reliable steam communica- tion between New York and Nassau, with none direct from England ; most of the colonial exports goto the United States; the style and quality of our goods suit the people, and usually our prices are as low as prices are in England. There are two objections urged by some dealers here against buying their cottons in the United States. First, the fluctuations in prices are COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 77 more frequent and are greater in the United States tban in England, so that buyers never feel certain that an order filled in January can be duplicated at same prices in April in the United States, whilst they can rely almost to a certainty that there will be no material alteration in England. Secondly, whilst cash or short credit is the rule in the United States, a responsible merchant can, in England, obtain long credit, say six, nine, or twelve month?, or even longer by paying a moderate rate of interest, or he may keep an open account running for years. As, how- ever, despite these objections, we have gradually acquired two-thirds of the cotton trade of the Bahamas, I look to see our manufacturers in due time obtain the whole of it. THOS. J. MCLAIN, JR., Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Xassau, .V. P., October 4, 1889. BERMUDA. REPORT BY CONSUL BECKW1TH, OF HAMILTON. Imports. — The imports during the fiscal year ending June 30, 1888, were as follows : From Great Britain, 103 packages, valued at $7,095.15 5 from the United States, 85 packages, valued at $ 2,394.51. For kinds and weights see inclosed samples, as the weight varies materially.* The textiles imported are purchased through foreign merchants and dealers. The countries of manufacture are England (Manchester) and the United States. The goods imported from the United States represent various mills, but are all purchased in New York through wholesale agents or dealers. The duty is 5 per cent, ad valorem. HENRY W. BECKWITH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Hamilton, Bermuda, July 25, 1889. * The consul inclosed 10 samples, as follows: Kinds. Price per yard. Weigbi per yar< . Kinds. Price per yard. Weight per yard. Bleached: Cent*. g Ounces &\ Unbleached : g 41 Second sample 10 ]•> & 4; Eipbth sample 7 H ij 4& Fourth sample 14 4j ]1 5| jMllh "ampin 16 4. Sixt ii sample 20 4. 78 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. DOMINICA. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT STEDMAN. Return of cottons, woolens, and linens imported into the island of Dominica during the year ending 3lst December, 1688, shoiving the value and places from whence imported and duty paid thereon. Whence imported. Value. Whence imported. Value. & s. d. 12 073 19 3 St Thomas £ s. d. 414 °97 17 7 45 15 6 8 18 5 Trinidad 40 5 4 511 2 7 1 0 i Martinique . ... ....... 6 3 10 Moiitscrrat .. . .... . 4 0 374 780 0 0 Total 13 786 9 11 St. Kitts 13 14 8 Duties charged thereon. .. 1, 606 4 6 Cottons, woolens, and linens are kept under one head at the custom- house. It is therefore not possible to obtain a separate value of the cottons imported, or the quantity, kinds, or weight per yard. WM. STEDMAN, Comtuiar Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Dominica, August, 1889. JAMAICA. REPORT BY VICE-CONSUL FORWOOD, OF KINGSTON. I have the honor to report upon the cotton textiles imported into this island, viz : QUALITY AND KIND IMPORTED. From United Kingdom „ $1, 518, 209. 28 From United States From foreign states From British West Indies From Germany 22, 179. 18 1,016.74 452. 98 588. 66 Total 1,542,446.84 All kinds are imported from Osnabnrgs to muslins and largfc quanti- ties of prints. WEIGHT. Weight varies from 6J ounces for Osnaburgs to 2§ ounces for mus- lins. No positive information can be obtained on this head, as the cotton textiles imported here are very numerous and textures variable. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. HOW PURCHASED. 79 Purchased through agents at the above-mentioned countries, and in >ne or two instances English houses have established branches in this sland. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. The goods are manufactured at and imported from the above-men- tioned countries. Duties charged thereon 12.J per cent. W. PEPLOE FORWOOD, Vice- Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Kingston, Jamaica, June IS, 1889. TRINIDAD. REPORT BY CONSUL SA WYES. IMPORTS. The quantity of cotton textiles not being given in any one of the reports of this Government, and to obtain it from the books of the im- porters here being impracticable, the correct quantity imported can aot be given ; but, as a knowledge of the approximate amount may be of some value, such quantity is here given by taking the correct total rallies of all woolens, silks, muslins, and cottons as a base, and deduct- ing the approximate quantity of cotton textiles by analogy. A leaf from the Trinidad Blue-Book for 1888 shows the following imports of textiles, and this is the only report upon imports of cotton textiles published by the Government: Imports in 1888. Articles and whence imported. Value. Articles and whence imported. Value. Wrarinjr apparel and haberdashery. £943 goa Wearing apparel and haberdashery. £6 l»ritii»u West Indies 1 197 10 Kritinli East Indies 208 g JJr.ti.su* Guiana 30 10 French West Indies 25 United States 4 006 ' Venezuela 340 France 11 331 2 789 Germany 2 292 Do 326 40 British West Indies 17 Holland 14 Franco 15 Total value of all manufactured texiles imported into Trinidad during the year 1888 amounts to $1,295,476: The average estimate of ten importing firms as to the proportion of cotton textiles imported into this colony during 1888, to the amount of 80 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. all — including silks, muslins, woolens, wearing apparel, and haberdash- ery— is about five-eighths, or $809,674; number of yards, 11. 423,957, being about 7.08 cents per yard. The kinds of cotton textiles imported are printed cottons, long-cloths, ducks and drills, bed-ticks and shirtings, muslins, Victoria-lawns, fancy dress stuff's, corduroy, and velveteens. WEIGHT. The average weight of white cotton textiles is found to be 2| ounces, and the brown cottoa textiles 4£ ounces per yard. HOW PURCHASED. Cotton textiles are (like many other kinds of goods) purchased by short and also by long accounts. The short account is cash, which means payment in 15 to 30 days. The long account is for six months or one year, and carries interest at 5 per cent, in England, 6 per cent, in France, 6 per cent, in Germany, and 6 per cent, in the United States. As a rule the charges for buying are 2| percent, in England, France, Germany, and the United States ; but there are exceptional cases where it is done for less, according to the amount purchased and other circum- stances. English merchants in London often charge their clients 5 per cent., but return them all the discounts, that are generally 2 or 2 J per cent. When a client covers the indent by remittances the merchant allows him 5 per cent, and buys the goods for him at 2J per cent. Some firms of long standing get credit without security, but as a rule the loan must be secured. Life insurance policies are much used as securities here by the as- signment of the policies. A large number of life policies have been ef- fected in Trinidad during the past two years, in the New York Life, New York Equitable, and some English and Canadian companies. When retailers buy of importers in this colony (either for use here, or in Venezuela or the adjacent islands) it is done at ninety days without charge of interest to the clients, the bank discounting the notes at the lawful interest of the colony — 6 per cent. — which of course is Against the importers. There are sometimes other private arrangements made between men of business, but what I have written is the general custom adopted in Trinidad. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. In England these cotton textile manufactured goods are produced in Manchester, and they are imported from Liverpool and London; in France they are manufactured in Rouen, and shipped at Havre ; in Germany they are made in Dresden, and imported from Hamburg; and jn. the United States £hey are manufactured jnpstly in Waterbury^ Conn,, COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 81 and imported from New York. These latter goods are cotton sail-cloth, in which article the Americans supply this market entirely, the goods being held in very high estimation. DUTIES. The import duties here are 4 per cent., excepting for a small por- tion (mentioned above) that are used by the church, the Government, and the troops. MOSES H. SAWYER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Trinidad, July 20, 1889. DANISH WEST INDIES. REPORT BY CONSUL TURNER, OF ST. THOMAS. The quantity and kind of cotton textiles imported into the Danish West Indies (St. Thomas and Santa Cruz) can not be ascertained from the custom-house statements, as the usual yearly reports show the value only in bulk of each class of goods. The weight per yard, how purchased, and place of manufacture are not given either, but through the courtesy of one of the largest (probably the largest) importers here, I am able to present herewith a statement showing the amount annually imported by said firm during the past two years, giving these particulars ; and what is true in this one case is the general rule. IMPORTS. The value of all cotton goods imported to the Danish West Indies is as follows lor the fiscal year ended March 31, 1889 : Imported into. Whence exported. Total value. Great Britain. United States. France. Germany. Italy. Other countries. St Thomas $166, 408 $8,580 $4,250 $8,639 $140 $179 19,400 31,197 $188, 196 19,400 31, 197 Fredericksted Chrititiansted Total 4,250 166,408 8,580 8,639 140 50,776 238, 793 There is no method of determining the several countries from which the importations to Santa Cruz come, as the custom-house report classi- fies them as coming from St. Thomas, Denmark, and foreign countries. The amount imported from Denmark is only $175. It is estimated by 82 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. the merchants of that island that about one-fifth only of the cotton textiles — about $10,000 in value — imported thither comes from the United States ; the total value, as can be ascertained from the above tabulated statement, being $50,597. HOW PURCHASED. The purchase is always made through commission merchants. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. The place of manufacture is Manchester, England, where the goods come from Great Britain, and the place of exportation is Liverpool. When from the United States, the place of exportation is New York. DUTY. The duty on cotton goods imported to St. Thomas is 2 per cent., and to Santa Cruz 12J per cent. ; in each case, ad valorem. MORTIMER A. TURNER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, 8t. Thomas, August 1, 1889. Statement of annual importation of cotton textiles imported to St. Thomas ly one firm, shoiv- ing class of goods, width, quantity, weight per yard, how purchased, and where manu- factured. [Manufactured at Manchester, England. Purchased through commission merchant. Duty, 2 per cent, on value. J Class of cotton textiles. Width. Quantity. Weight per yard. Shirtings Inches. 25 31 33 34 38 25 28 24 28 24 28 29 30-31 24 23 26 26 *> 5, 500 pieces, 40 to 50 yards e|tch . . . 1 > 1,200 pieces, 50 to 60 yards each.. \ 11.500 pieces, 26 to 30 yards each . 1.300 pieces, 50 to 60 yards each. . . 350 pieces, 30 to 40 yards each 500 pieces, 30 to 40 yards each Ounces. ( 2* 2f j if 1? 1 5* I 3 I 11 I 4* X)o Do . . Do Do Do Do Do . . Prints § Do Prints $ ... W^hite cotton checks Colored cotton checks .. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 83 FRENCH WEST INDIES. GUADELOUPE. REPORT BY CONSUL BARTLETT. On the receipt of circular, I immediately addressed myself to the chief collector of customs of this colony, who graciously sent me all the in- formation it was in his power to give. His reply and statistical statement I have the honor to transmit here- with to the Department. I will endeavor to answer the interrogatories above mentioned ac- cording to the best information I have obtained from the collector of customs and importers. There has been imported to the value of 1,062,658 francs worth, during the year 1888. There is imported of all the kinds that are manufactured in France, England, Belgium, and Switzerland, excepting unbleached cotton. Most every kind has a different weight, impossible to ascertain. Most all these goods are purchased in France, England, Belgium, and Switzerland, on credit, mostly through merchants in Paris. The greater part of these goods is manufactured in England and France, and smaller portion in Belgium and Switzerland. Most of these goods are sent to France, where they are admitted in bond and re- shipped on board the French transatlantic steamers for this colony. A small quantity only comes direct from England by the English royal mail steamers. Duties charged thereon are 10 per cent, ad valorem. CHARLES BARTLETT, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Guadeloupe, August 8, 1889. Mr. Laure to Consul Bartlett. BASSE-TERRE, July 9, 1889. Mr. CONSUL: lu reply to your honored demand of the 2d instant, I beg to point out in the statement hereunto annexed, all concerning the introductions of cotton textiles during the year 1888, such as stated by the commercial balance for the pres- ent year. The customs service do not possess informations more complete than these on the trade of cotton textiles in the colony, but it is a well-known fact that France, Eng- land, Belgium, and Switzerland are the markets from which all the products of that kind are imported. Please accept, Mr. Consul, the assurance of my most distinguished feelings. L. LAUKE, The Inspector, Chief of Customs Service, 84 COT I ON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton fabrics imported into Guadeloupe in 1888. Articles. From France. From French warehouses. Directly from for- eign countries. Total. Quan- tities. Values. Quan- tities. Values. Quan- tities. Values. Quan- tities. Values. Madras handkerchiefs Madapollan handkerchiefs. Laces Pkys. 676 515 Francs. 9,698 5,145 36, 580 48, 150 7 867 Pkgs. 2, 056 1,603 Francs. 2:$, 454 15, 416 705 14, 338 Pkgs. 156 62 Francs. 1,973 536 Pkgs. '2, 888 2, 18n Francs. 35, 125 Si, 097 37, 285 65, 492 11, 273 1,062,658 Hosiery, etc 3,004 Oil-cloth 1 988 1,418 124, 008 Calicoes cottonades etc 164, 491 774, 159 Basse-Terre, July 9, 1889. L. LAURE, Inspector, Chief of the Bureau of Customs. MARTINIQUE. REPORT BY CONSUL GARESOHB. In reply to circular of the Department of State, bearing postmark of June 13 and dated May 27, 1889, concerning importation of cotton text- iles, I have the honor to inclose herewith translation of a letter from M. Emile Lefebvre, chief of the customs service, in reply to my com- munication to the administration on the subject. WILLIAM A. GARESCHE, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Martinique, July 19, 1889. M. Emile Lefebvre to Consul Garesche. FORT-DE-FRANCE, June 9, 1889. MONSIEUR LE CONSUL : In conformity to instructions of the director of the interior, I have the honor to furnish you, at foot hereof, with two points of information which you have asked of the governor under date 24th June (ultimo). (1) There were imported into the colony, during 1888, 340,325 meters of French cotton manufactured stuifs and 2,160,627 meters of foreign cotton goods ; total importation, 2,735,068 yards. (2) The French manufactured stuffs, in pieces, are submitted (or are subject) to a local or municipal duty as follows : Per meter. Single width francs.. 0.116 Double width .. ,...., 0,026 Plus 20 per cent, additional on above, COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 85 The foreign cotton stuffs pay independently or additionally to the duty above stated a customs duty (droits de douane) as follows: Per meter. Single width francs.. 0.05 Double width 0.08 LEFEBVRE. SAN DOMINGO. PUERTO PLATA. REPORT BY CONSUL SIMPSON. In answer to circular of May 27, 1889, in regard to cotton textiles im- ported into this district, I have embodied in the accompanying table all the information it is possible to obtain on the subject. It has been difficult to classify the articles under their proper heads, as I am not conversant with the trade names, in English, of some of the articles, nor are any of the mercha nts ; neither is the tariff any guide, as there are a number of different names for the same class of goods. The weight per yard is never declared or required, as duties are based on width and apparent fineness ; each 3 inches, in excess of 24, paying one or more cents per yard additional, according to class. On goods purchased in Europe, merchants are allowed a credit of six months, and from the United States from cash to two months. Duties are specific on all classes of cotton textiles. THOS. SIMPSON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Puerto Plata, September 25, 1889. 86 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton textiles imported into the district of Puerto Plata during year 1888. Articles. England. United States. Germany. France. Total. Yards. Duties. Yards. Duties. Yds. Duties Yds. Duties. Yards. Duties. Bleached cottons : 24-inch 54, 728 $1, 953. 75 54, 728 80, 081 51, 642 70, 130 11,536 1,430 82, 798 141, 437 32,390 36, 867 18, 115 720 28, 324 119, 169 226, 842 85, 995 38, 021 7,756 668 2,460 102,299 8,036 6,976 870, 577 108,197 24, 981 4,100 41, 678 140, 082 9,243 14, 340 $1, 953. 75 3,267.30 2,369.96 3, 397. 79 688.33 116. fll 6,333.65; 10,309.92 2,477.83^ 1, 316. 15 - 7.,9.00 33.00 1,443.70 - 6, 077. 60 10, 412. 04 4,378.45,, 1, 692. 16 395.55 37.47 175.64 4, 113. 79 368. 85 3 5.90 39, 959. 48 6, 069. & 1, 656. 20 376. 00 1, 301. 00 5, 000. 90 377. 11 877.60 78, 202 51, 642 70, 130 4,416 3, 190. 64 2, 369. 96 3, 307. 79 225. 21 1,879 $76.66 30-inch 33-inch •. 36-inch. 72-inch 7,120 1,430 45, 375 39, 750 32, 390 363. 12 116. 68 3, 470. 80 2, 530. 87 2, 477. 83 Denims Drillings: 27-inch 37, 423 95, 877 2, 862. 85 7, 334. 59 5,810 $444.46 27-inch (un- bleached) . . . Ginghams : 24-inch 36, 867 18, 115 720 24, 314 119, 169 222, 292 77,844 38, 021 7,756 668 1,316.15 739. 00 33.00 1, 239. 70 6, 077. 60 10, 203. 20 3, o threads Per kilogram Per 100 kilograms .. 23 threads up (see third group). SECOND GROUP. Texture, straight threads, stamped, painted, striped, or whose threads were dyed before weaving, such as chintz, pe-cale, figured gros detoni, haraga, chiutz striped, and similar textures : Up to 12 threads 17 to 19 threads Per kilogram do 20 to 22 threads . 23 threads up (see third group). 90 COTTON TEXTILES I NT FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Translation of section of cotton textiles in Spanish customs tariff,. etc. No Group. Base on which duty is calculated. Spanish manu- facture. Foreign maim- facture. Under Spanish flag. Under foreign flag. Under Spanish flag. Under foreign flag. 386 387 388 389 390 391 392 393 394 395 396 397 398 399 400 401 402 THIKD GROUP. Textures, light, fine or ordinary, be they dense or light, and all those which contain more than 23 threads, straight or worked on the loom, bleached, white, stamped, or dyed as muslin, jaconet, organdi and cambric, muslin lining : Up to 8 threads Per 100 kilograms . do $12. 00 20. 550 34. 300 .412 .515 .686 .857 10 p. ct. .345 1.035 .311 .690 .345 .345 7.500 13.150 $28. 00 48.00 80.00 .900 1.200 1.600 2.00 23p.ct. .793 2.380 .714 1.586 .793 .793 15.00 26. 250 $35. 00 60.00 100. 00 1.200 1.500 2.00 2.500 29p.ct. 1.00 3.00 .900 2.00 1.00 % 1.00 20.00 35.00 $43.00 73. 700 122. 850 1.475 1.843 2.452 3.072 37p.ct. 1.276 3.828 1.149 2.552 1.276 1.276 26.650 - 46. 659 9tol2 threads 13 to 16 threads ....do 17 to 22 threads Per kilogram ...do 23 to 28 threads 29 to 34 threads do 35 upwards do The textures contained in the above group embroidered by hand or on the loom or adorned by appliqu6 work, pay accord- ing to their group with an addition of 20 per cent, on duties. The same textures, embroidered b^ hand or on the loom or adorned with silk or wool, the twisted wicks for candles Ad valorem FOURTH GROUP. Tulles, plain, flowered, or embroidered, white or colored: Up to 5 threads 6 threads upwards do FIFTH GROUP. First species. .Laces, common machine worked Second species. Laces, of lighter material or not contain- ing linen and the borders and points plain, worked, or embroidered, white or colored Per kilogram Third species. Netting, in pieces, shawls, large or small ; adorned on top and other forms Per kilogram SIXTH GROUP. First species. Textures, quilted, plain, or worked piqu6, white or colored Per kilogram Second species. Textures, crossed threads or like serge, white, stamped, or colored, of common kind, as ticking, canvas, or cotton duck, the wicks for lamps, and others of like kind, also cotton hose (for liquids) . Per 100 kilograms. . . Per 100 kilograms . . . Third species. Textures of superior kind to the preced- ing, as drills, flowered weaving, cotton damask, such as German cloth and calico and Madapollam of crossed threads COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIi 91 Translation of section of cotton textiles in Spanish customs tariff, etc.— Continued. No. 4o:t 404 405 406 407 Gronp. SEVENTH GBOUP. Textures, lueshed ami stockinnet, in un- dershirts, drawers, socks, and stock- ings, gloves, caps, and other forms EIGHTH GROUP. Textures, carded, cotton velvet, cotton plush, and carpet in^s : First tpecieg. Textures, carded, cotton flannel, shawls, blankets, be they raw, bleached, or colored , Second species. Textures, velveteened, as corduroy, be they plain or worked Third species. Textures of plush, Brussels carpets in pieces, shawls, large and small Fourth species. Textures of plush, cut, or shaggy cloth in pieces, and towels, such as Turk- ish towels 409 410 NINTH GBOUP. First species. Ribbons, narrow, white or colored Second spei ies. Ribbons of other kinds, plain or worked, white or colored, used for hat ribbons and adorning of dress, be they of vel- vet (cotton), called velveteen 411 412 413 414 415 Third species. • Ribbons of other kinds, such as are used for loops for shoes and reins for horses TENTH GROUP. First species. Cotton stuffs in pieces or detached, with or without fringes, but without hand work, pay as per preceding group. ( Handkerchiefs. ) Second species. Cotton stuff hemmed or with some hand work belong to the above groups and pay an additional 20 per cent, on the duty. (Handkerchiefs.) Third species. Stuffs open-hemmed, or with lace, pay an follows : Handkerchiefs up to 17 threads 18 to 20 thtfeads 21 to 22 threads 23 threads upwards Base on which duty is calculated. Per 100 kilograms. Per 100 kilograms. Per kilogram Per kilogram Per kilogram Per kilogram Per kilogram Per kilogram Per kilogram ...do ...do ...do... Spanish manu- facture. Foreign manu- facture. Under Spanish flag. Under foreign flag. Under Spanish flag. Under foreign flag. $48. 7fX) $97.500 $130. 00 $173. 350 7.500 15.00 20.00 26.650 .207 .476 .600 .760 .250 .575 .725 .925 .155 .357 .450 .574 .113 .225 . .300 .400 .345 .793 1.00 1.276 .132 .263 .350 .476 .449 .655 .880 1.311 1.031 1.507 2.023 3.014 1.300 1.900 2.550 3.800 1.659 2.424 3.254 4.849 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. No. 416 417 418 419 I Spanish manu- Foreign manu- tacture. facture. Group. Base on which duty is calculated. Under Under Under Under Spanish foreign Spanish foreign flag. flag. flag. flag. ELEVENTH GROUP. Ready-made clothing in general pays ac- cording to the textures of this section, with an additional 100 per cent, on the duty. The counting or the number of threads in shirts will he made on the bosoms, collars, and cuffs. Shirts of cotton, with bosom, collar, and cuffs of linen, pay as liuen textiles with the additional 50 per cent, on the duty on linen in the same manner as demands the foregoing number (416), just as if they contained no cotton. Umbrellas and sunshades, of cotton Per dozen .-, $0. 450 $0.900 $1. 200 $1. 600 Textiles with base of elastic, called cot- ton elastic Per kilogram .300 .600 .800 1.067 (') The number of threads in valuing cotton textiles are counted in the space of six milli- meters. (2) Doubts are decided, should the textiles contain a thread more in the space above men- tioned, in favor of the importer. (3) Percale, scarlet, pays according to the second group. (4) Also poplin. (5)It is decided that cotton shawls the texture of which is of crossed threads and of light damask only, marked on one side, pay according to No. 402. (G) Shawls or blankets bound with tape or ribbon pay according to No. 404, without the 20 per cent, additional. Imports of cotton textiles from Barcelona, Spain, to Santiago de Cuba during the years 1887 and 1888. Kind of goods. Weight. Duties paid in Spanish gold. Textures, 10 threads Kilograms. 33 934 $1 190 49 Shirts 1 604 *111 72 Up to 16 threads 26 787 1 346 09 Drawers 1 959 t!86 78 Up to 22 threads 27 2 13 Dyed, 12 threads 4 415 280 50 Plain. 16 threads 1 240 179 61 Shirts 270 *41 61 Dyed, 19 threads 692J 77 93 24 threads in shirts ; 64 *43 05 Awning ticking 12 154 550 77 Handwork 50 t2 95 Crossed threads 12 033 * 1 186 17 The same i n trousers 567 t61 09 Meshed and stockinnetted t... 4 334£ 1 488 10 Blankets 20 140 997 15 Counterpanes 103 6 05 Total 121 374 7 745 19 * This lot pays 50 per cent, additional, t This lot pays 20 per cent, additional. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 93 imports of cotton textile* from the United States to Santiago de Cuba during the years 1887 and 1888. Kind of good ». Weight. Duties paid in Spanish gold. New York : Textures 10 threads . .. ... . 4 Kilograms. 41 $7.31 g 2 48 8 543 2 027.56 Philadelphia: Textures 8 threads 16 5 58 Total 8 606 2 042 93 Imports of cotton textiles from Havre, France, to Santiago de Cuba during the years 1887 and 1888. Kind of goods. Weight. Duties paid in Spanish gold. Embroidery, lace: Kilograms. 485 *$303 67 370 *166 68 8 threads 19 7 90 Handkerchiefs hemmed 22 threads H *9 41 Embroidery 24 threads . .. .. .. 20 *42. 75 Textiles crossed threads 18 7.48 Shawls 17 9 33 Total 934i 547 22 * This lot pays an additional 20 per cent. Imports of cotton textiles from St. Thomas, West Indies, to Santiago de Cuba during the years 1887 and 1888. Kind of goods. Weight. Duties paid in Spanish gold. Textures, embroidered, 16 th Textures, light, 2'J threads . reads . .. ........... ............ Kilograms. 181 39 498 328 360 *$90.64 55.59 206.98 *163. 56 555.30 Handkerchiefs, crossed thres Textures, meshed and stocki Total ids 1,406 1, 072. 07 * This lot pays an additional 20 per cent. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Imports of cotton textiles from Liverpool, England, to Santiago de Cuba during the years 1887 and 1888. Kind of goods. Weight. Duties paid in Spanish gold. Textures 10 threads Kilograms. 698 $124 33 AVhite 10 threads t 7 1554 1 274 32 ^V^hite 16 threads . .... .... 6*636 1 681 49 113 *33 81 Embroidery up to 16 threads . . 3 315 *1 652 65 Handkerchiefs ^hemmed, basted) 104 '*51 88 Textures dyed 12 threads 2 503 970 94 2 999 1 191 75 279 t!22 09 Li 3 ,00 riN-M-rs 2,150 68to70vai 8, 200 68 meters 7.200 ! 40 yards.. 3, 388 40 yards . 4, 300 1 70 meters ds ds 1.12 reales vellon per meter. . . 1.50 reales vellon per meter... 4* fid per yard 7a cents Spain 9 J cents Do. $''£ per 40 yards England 4s. 10d. per yard ..... ... 5 cents yard Do. 5s. lOd. per yard 8s 4kd per yard $2.75 per 40 yards $3. 75 per 40 yards 5 cents per ; ard . . 4| cents per yard. 9 cents per yard . . 7 cents per yard . 18 cents per yard. 4 J cents per yard . 8£ cents per yard. 13 cents per yard . $3.50 per 40 yards 9 cents per yard . . Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. France. England. Spain. Do. England. Spain. 3* 8^ 123 22 662 2 300 626 Italy 726 338 83 198 Italy 31 900 8 661 Eastern Coast Aden 5, 500 1,266 of Africa Arabia 2 595 627 245 010 20 296 Ceylon 28 162 9 545 Egypt 43, 249 5 300 China, Hong-Kong 28, 730 2,588 Aden 6,578 335 Straits Settlements 16 428 3 g4Q Ceylon 51, 736 4 026 Other countries 1,798 322 Straits Settle- 2 314 834 166 927 51, 542, 549 11, 939, 684 Other countries 11, 804 1,008 Manufactures : 320, 463, 785 15,426,150 ( unbleached f: United King- Yards. 1 178 757 7°6 44 584 741 Colored, printed, or dyed: United King- i Austria 6 165 334 dom 332, 599, 443 16 941,362 France 6,240 755 Austria 2, 601, 382 167, 194 Italy 25 096 4 555 Belgium 149, 904 15 218 Egypt 16, 650 681 France 1, 667, 255 285, 028 687 000 46 837 Germany .... 58 870 5 159 Aden 121, 528 7,971 Holland 16, 028 1 900 21 600 713 Italy 642 070 47 220 379 849 18 630 FjfYDt 29 620 3 342 Persia 11, 756 440 i*->r? Arabia 82, 350 Ii!l88 Straits Settle- Ceylon 14, 886 1 178 ments ...... 133, 768 5,823 China, Hong- Other countries 7 892 293 8 096 1 207 28 704 1 970 1, 180, 175, 270 44, 671, 773 Straits Settle- 1 188 236 139 315 Piece goods, white (bleached) : Turkey in Asia Other countries 5, 425 10, 558 354 469 dom 315 782 387 15 009 287 339 102 827 17, 626, 104 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOK'KICN COUNTRIES. 101 Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta each month from 1883 to 1888, inclusive. [Compiled from the Monthly Statement of Imports, published by D. M. Traill, 20 British ludian street, Calcutta. 1883. Mouths. Gray goods. Shirtings. |i j 1 S | S 1 >o eo 37 to 39 inches. 44 to 45 inches. ! ! oo •** ,2 •* •* • 3 o ft to 2 C-* •# "~ a 00 « _o «* 0 • rS 00 rs a s oo oo 3 ** oo | 1 o 5 0 1 1 t- 1 a 00 1 p o A 0 Jan 288 78 221 191 122 66 35 178 76 179 219 138 671 280 518 465 454 269 232 •-'87 209 2<>:j 295 356 20 240 157 322 547 141 127 77 63 138 51 77 30 24 42 53 66 109 68 84 117 32 127 24 25 594 122 577 862 1,033 484 463 464 114 15f> 150 46 401 118 476 599 852 573 215 233 387 428 222 149 8, 332 3, 417 7,056 9, 052 6,719 6,652 5,971 8,034 4,370 5, 849 5, 438 4,277 5,356 3,212 4,697 5,018 3,646 3,511 3,565 5,751 3,833 5,773 5,523 4,842 8 12 5 21 13 13 7 "44" 43 7 8 38 26 46 29 46 48 32 48 723 599 694 857 690 620 559 869 552 627 568 426 Feb Mar Apr 8 2 49 44 71 63 106 68 8 11 14 22 May 48 29 20 31 77 40 7 Jane July Sept "Y 7 Oct 50 63 57 Nov Dec . . .. Total... 1,791 4,329 419 63 273 1,970 771 5,064 4, 653 75, 167 j54, 727 181 483 7,784 Months. Gray goods. Shirtings. Madapollams. Jaconets. Mulls. 50 inches. 54 inches. 32 inches. ] 50 nches. 1 i 1 5 I 1 i 3 5 . a 5 1 51 s 3 8 ri rs a P. o 1 a. 00 00 WTS SS 31 «» ^oo 0^3 Or3 "a 3 a £23 co 3 -S. "I 4 •^ 10 Jan... 41 145 15 24 54 34 98 160 307 233 521 298 149 43 50 69 40 115 99 134 163 52 123 98 61 251 115 95 32 157 68 516 129 473 160 327 44 i:;r. 63 368 126 359 84 588 296 636 327 312 194 144 114 54 10 38 35 113 183 68 126 102 99 429 231 533 427 419 547 578 606 285 659 373 399 1,006 479 909 755 962 658 1,022 1,214 756 1,129 914 723 6 67 Feb 63 Mar .... 25 43 57 48 137 697 544 660 264 128 30 24 97 92 176 130 Apr ... May j une July 4 2 6 17 17 2 --" 165 131 67 66 Aug . . Sept Oct.! Nov... 25 Dec. . 8 12 Total... 2,644 2, 038 1,047 4, 217 1, 638 1,086 f.,486 10,527 48 68 1,091 102 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc.— Continued. 1883— Continued. • Months. Gray goods. T-cloths. BJ tc q "S y> £ 05 q cS V T3 q ^n *C Q Chudders. ! P 3,959 2,H5 4,210 4,557 4,417 4.392 4,246 7,300 4,267 5,978 5, 862 5, 024 Dhooty bordered. Sundries not classified. • i3 a 1 •* _o as 5 pounds. 6 pounds. 7 pounds. Shirtings. Madapollams. 5 « 1 J2 3 T-cloths. Jan 569 373 403 195 275 267 275 494 244 239 226 214 361 93 176 35 11 "74 44 12 4 50 263 88 138 122 108 72 119 411 306 262 65 51 287 52 41 23 133 75 88 190 115 123 124 115 28 16 24 2 2 18 9 4 73 10 5 729 408 863 246 196 147 98 371 322 321 350 208 295 67 98 53 89 351 233 988 1,122 1,305 913 367 25 29 48 8 21 13 37 37 14 4 24 4 50 52 87 24 65 41 31 6 10 50 18 70 10 29 14 13 37 73 46 56 10 Feb... Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov 40 49 Dec Total . . . — 3,779 860 1,005 1,366 196 14,259 5,881 56, 657 264 455 426 Months. White goods. Shirtings. Jaconets. Mulls. Cambrics. | I Book muslins. of Jl ti f* ifi Lappets. 39 inches. 44 inches. 39 inches. A V 1 9 *• 1 .g-es o 0 2 *s s Jan 1,357 822 1,113 1,391 961 575 670 1,004 753 830 891 834 925 611 905 871 701 642 65L 1,045 814 1,065 1,047 968 761 407 748 625 ' 870 1,049 862 1,369 864 1,103 906 631 469 224 496 614 447 459 472 581 292 484 471 517 710 437 1,314 1,153 687 410 738 1,110 567 732 87fi 698 259 36 45 211 186 47 120 244 160 263 52 632 62 61 209 264 198 100 146 161 i 210 152 432 27 15 79 65 63 69 21 12 20 42 20 344 64 127 104 218 164 144 104 112 140 26 2 81 62 45 56 28 32 57 36 41 72 38 71 85 35 159 233 245 296 207 206 110 134 173 87 452 269 368 430 297 177' 398 417 H6 390 335 261 Feb Mar Apr May June July... Au- Sept . . Oct Nov . Dec Total . 11, 201 10, 245 10, 195 5,526 9,432 1, 707 J2, 546 440 1,549 6J9 1,970 3,940 1 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 103 1883— Continued. Mouths. Jan ........ Feb ........ Mar ....... Ar ....... June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec... Total Months. Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Dec. Total.. White goods. I 733 484 K49 980 948 1,066 1, 074 1,799 1,049 1,541 1, 037 870 64 90 50 97 M 50 69 121 30 76 50 40 308 136 267 258 265 180 424 672 328 495 489 428 12, 380 I 776 |4, 250 7614,2 f- 114 772 Colored goods. Turkey-red. Cambrics. 7-8. 2,276 1,221 986 1,221 780 830 574 1,112 764 | 959 j 996 i 558 ! 9-8. 102 66 291 299 114 39 7 88 70 119 69 26 12,277 j 1,290 773 490 395 531 387 427 448 531 316 534 412 402 5,646 49 12 78 53 is 47 69 10 40 26 II 258 121 85 199 81 14 23 10U 10 488 1,076 142 Colored goods. Turkey-red. Prints. 7-8. 31 165 100 75 210 68 183 139 84 9-8. 167 95 56 56 92 155 04 226 84 213 147 127 1,114 1,482 167 113 80 128 120 144 121 172 5 154 156 341 1,497 Dyed. 95 63 81 66 54 58 66 111 132 276 105 55 1,162" 8- 8 F, . 21 28 46 131 156 5'{f> 2 1 6 4 6 1 47 20 L'9 (5 'l22 201 108 151 180 122 210 246 334 339 592 4fil 187 3, 131 J 11 358 190 168 280 180 178 2.r>3 48H 277 366 361 I", 520 3,254 104 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOKEIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1883- Continued. Months. Jan.. Feb.. Mar. Apr . May. June July . Aug. Sept. Oct.. Nov . Dec.. Total.. Colored goods. Printed. 264 636 962 758 750 1,841 2,883 4,160 1, 630 2,173 1,211 575 18, 576 82 99 64 105 65 42 117 74 54 21 24 3 27 103 60 43 117 136 72 76 130 Woolens. 21 8 8 19 37 64 50 177 126 74 52 666 23 21 7 108 199 284 473 249 380 270 118 2, 164 254 49 30 24 10 21 65 47 105 153 113 78 55 750 4 24 119 164 80 37 140 655 525 §•8 319 201 95 165 87 115 195 380 349 557 495 203 3, 163 Sundries. Months. Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 93 23 73 46 45 42 33 26 33 12 64 109 Total 55 27 19 44 47 60 94 82 136 90 87 51 47 16 23 34 58 38 15 50 62 67 Cl 37 25 ! 9 1 43 ia a 14 12 '28 !) 7 1 10 63 72 12 133 56 78 90 94 42 54 122 171 17 14 47 161 179 290 414 557 447 427 205 792 507 172 896 j 389 2, 929 Thread. Cotton. 342 238 223 164 98 145 141 75 158 i 103 ; 257 2,136 18:5 258 174 233 155 113 161 215 422 380 405 387 204 3,107 658 407 639 635 524 257 218 357 279 404 289 330 4,997 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COl'NTKIi 105 Statement ahowiny piecs good* imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1883— Continued. Months. Yarn and twist. Gray yams. 00 3 I .1 ' ! 1 "5 44, 725 24. L'O'J 138,532 42, 607 36. 326 35, 083 35,648 54,470 34, 870 47, 452 33,' 023 i £ <] 1 c 3 11 I 25 41 125 CM I GO W ^ c 3 t^ 3 00 co CO _o • co 0 c- co s Jan 110 °45 8 34 15 119 168 5 021 5 945 2 U 474 Feb 73 394 8 30 f, 140 158 3* 892 4* 761 17 4 388 Mar 116 430 22 39 291 204 1 55H 5*578 18 12 339 Apr .. 77 554 3 3 89 28 720 357 i 6,615 7 4.79 • 38 479 May.. 82 634 16 11 11 3? 584 257 i 5.035 r» 912 253 Jane 51 586 20 71 58 2fi4 5 491 5 047 9 Q 972 July 123 385 40 5 161 122 891 561 fi 45.-. S M7 314 Auc 266 547 55 5 40 218 1911 MM 805 fi f>°ri r. 987 18 392 Sept 185 272 586 1 031 58 20 13 10 49 33 244 82 489 185 f>8 701 1 010 5^219 7 773 4,219 8 042 20 23 37 8 569 888 Oct Nov 111 784 15 52 18 77 10O 2ft3 1* 101 6 006 5 513 8 65 737 Dec 128 894 14 213 78 9Qfi 1 151 7 247 « Qrtft 34 in 800 Total... 1,594 7,070 211 96 189 1,355 738 5,630 6,742 69, 337 70,986 142 i 211 5,905 106 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1884— Continued. Months. Gray goods. * Shirtings. Madapollams. Jaconets. Mulls. 50 inches. 54 inches. 32 inches. 50 inches. 1 a 10 pounds. 11 pounds. 3* CO co CO « CO 5.4 pounds. a i 357 433 313 482 309 510 547 537 487 830 486 478 .9 49 to 50 39 inche 44 inche Jan . 127 78 30 42 59 55 255 680 705 634 175 96 112 37 40 61 42 156 372 702 617 1,081 348 132 119 32 52 135 54 84 14 146 193 507 282 265 478 170 209 514 98 135 112 216 248 357 126 99 148 166 208 370 83 105 205 327 310 199 111 148 8.5 36 119 125 78 80 146 121 35 42 93 691 600 686 845 489 535 583 732 424 555 383 502 10 4 6 20 5 15 8 14 8 6 23 14 31 94 99 63 88 87 65 69 Feb Mar Apr 6 6 io 8 24 26 5 23 May June July A Off Sept Oct Nov 61 Dec 10 75 Total... 2,936 3,700 1,883 2, 762 2,156 1,114 5, 769 7,025 122 92 769 4 Months. 1 Gray -goods. T-cloths. Sheetings. Drills and jeans. Chudders. Dhooties. Dhooty bordered. Sundries not classified. M ts ro *-> «a — oo co 3 to 4 pounds. 5 pounds. 6 pounds. 7 pounds. 1 1 Maflapollams. 1 at 4S 3 T-cloths. Jan 382 240 249 227 338 425 665 392 381 459 382 615 120 140 43 76 44 44 129 384 93 289 173 223 179 79 70 173 135 282 185 122 70 338 145 180 295 289 88 183 82 185 188 256 91 86 74 220 4 5 20 20 36 10 4 10 5 11 103 6 493 706 375 856 495 305 507 1,736 121 328 557 694 250 85 49 63 35 169 352 158 1,048 2, "32 617 215 4,719 4, 246 3,508 4,608 3,851 4, (546 K 556 4. 678 4.847 3,377 3,553 7 Feb 53 3 6 ""ie 24 23 28 59 5 70 16 32 29 21 12 21 Mar Apr Mav 11 42 43 74 26 20 13 July Aug Set>t Oct Nov 22 90 Dec * Total... 4,755 1,758 1,958 2,037 234 7,173 5,273 53, 588 ,287 250 307 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. . Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1884- Continued. 107 Months. White goods. Shirt- ings. Jaconets. Mulls. Cambrics. Tanjibs. Bouk muslins. •Z. M 8 o •§* li •s * 53 00 ! 39 inches. 44 inches. 39 inches. 44 inches. 50 to 64 in- ches. } i 36 39i Jan 844 760 654 628 419 641 526 9B8 468 1,110 935 1,331 965 570 502 402 234 268 256 151 248 261 221 382 86 179 I 108 134 41 111 130 134 8!{ 286 70 118 l.i'Sl 409 5i;j 510 390 611 8ld »if.l 620 071 6,16 516 528 512 300 381 -m RM 591 470 :{;w 748 428 6KJ 907 1,321 1, 4:i2 1, 559 801 921 809 788 68 32 46 If. 14 25 54 32 42 13 • 47 41 34 25 35 20 7!) 32 12 1] 156 71 86 ll:t 107 56 97 42 14 90 111 66 109 81 133 171 is; 201 156 102 37 109 119 120 468 505 316 505 281 306 488 2.'2 114 299 208 285 Ft'b Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec .. . . Total... 8,704 4,460 1,450 7,403 5,946 11,090 2,306 2, 299 396 214 1,008 I, 528 3,997 Months. White goods. Colored goods. | Sarries. 1 I Drills and jeans. Sundries not class- ified. Turkey-red. Cambrics. Shirtings. _« >-3 A 3 Mull stripes. Twills and diuieties. 3 B ! 7.8. 3 Jan ......... 1,071 1,075 1,065 1,251 809 737 1,239 1,127 962 1,076 1,048 1,009 33 57 34 41 17 26 39 20 10 44 18 23 494 395 432 476 314 357 702 499 455 6(>8 322 333 37 34 23 39 6 20 ie 16 4 ?:« 1 10 51 75 108 103 93 90 114 122 57 60 24 42 670 1, 075 638 8)9 485 718 853 684 477 736 624 731 164 104 114 262 129 167 144 42 148 14", 29 28 399 663 605 989 721 l,i>79 957 776 820 1.IM4 794 76-< 51 58 1 3 29 68 82 12 "49" 23 61 45 66 52 71 128 116 198 126 112 312 168 195 7 20 14 33 i Feb Mar \pr May 7 3 39 19 20 47 16 12 June 24 27 53 20 48 2G "14" 15 29~ Julv Aug . Sept . . . Oct Nov .. Dec Total . . . 12,469 369 5, 387 282 939 8,510 1,474 9. 60."i 437 1,589 280 164 108 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1884— Continued. Months. Colored goods. Turkey-red. Dyed. Prints. Scarfs. Sarries and dresses. Sundries not clas- sified. 02 t/, a t« 1 Jaconets. fl 0 3 Cambrics aud road- ie pol lams. •% '£ P Sundries not clas- sified. 7-8. 9-8. Jan ........ 76 153 65 140 117 127 176 155 119 147 149 42 195 80 111 87 27 28 66 71 43 61 40 64 76 110 14 73 57 110 118 74 61 108 58 34 90 145 113 114 72 39 29 42 25 18 34 75 796 100 50 48 70 45 44 25 20 10 32 43 14 3 39 105 210 265 283 137 156 170 125 127 171 143 148 2,070 57 25 20 3 35 14 6 7 27 30 10 82 316 211 254 178 158 • 76 149 212 252 267 509 186 122 2,574 Feb Mar 16 1 5 11 ...... 11 5 Apr 11 May June 2 3 3 2 4 1 1 1 5 152 July . . . Aue Oct 1 1 Nov 3 Dec Total . . . -IT ~~487~ 1,466 873 48 888 Colored goods. Printed. Woolens. . ? 02 a X i Months. "C *s 9 | I 0 a •s . i'g « to i'g • 03 cc3 0 P 9 • fe cocfl | a 1 1 o | 6 .rq o 1 1 M *3 l" 6 jn i « O £ S s E PQ 0 cc Jan 362 53 43 19 87 10 41 15 77 193 Feb 76 431 37 49 12 24 30 12 71 176 Mar 40 291 57 26 20 10 9 30 3 27 89 Apr 67 502 36 27 15 47 6 57 4 38 137 May 7 489 28 22 12 155 6 12 3 36 134 June 38 1 024 29 10 1 8 116 4 11 32 46 123 July 2 1,751 49 35 39 393 47 84 36 42 344 Aug f) 1 826 61 48 74 5-^8 51 148 71 57 572 Sept 8 1,835 55 45 133 351 24 125 87 546 Oct 2,426 91 119 82 454 85 157 84 TT 682 Nov . 1 424 27 65 99 191 29 88 70 430 Dec 944 52 34 71 143 13 56 72 110 207 Total . . . 240 13, 305 575 523 584 2,499 284 819 466 702 3,633 COTTON' TKXTILKS IX FOKKI^N COUNTRIES. 109 Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1884— Continued. Months. Sundries. I i tt Z | 1 1 H 4 C3 8 t ! a 6 i $ Thread. a 3 j| 1 1 I t> Cotton. | 13 K 8 Jan » 44 72 34 33 18 24 4 13 40 76 43 35 39 29 25 30 70 125 88 176 67 104 69 56 67 21 21 30 52 41 90 65 43 2 1 •> 6 5 11 2 6 8 11 70 138 79 171 71 197 1-20 86 51 74 71 55 46 60 26 17 11 19 6 5 5 10 17 34 137 26 13 66 113 99 299 641 412 589 310 137 92 33 99 38 40 45 114 196 309 414 200 85 245 210 155 181 1(50 169 230 159 114 265 •J47 369 33 21 1-2 20 18 19 •21 27 33 19 26 4i 111 71 52 78 34 69 81 96 159 279 121 90 665 701 (119 776 710 852 K>7 624 475 722 454 439 Fob 5 Mar A pi- 23 4 8 5 10 "~3 1 May . Jnlv Allff Sen; Oct ... . Nov Dec 1 Total . . . 505 831 609 5'J 1.183 256 2,842 1,659 2, 504 293 59 1,241 7,894 Yarn and twist. Gray yarns. .2 ' a g •^ i.' a > 1 05 CST3 * — g ^ 3 "c8 i i 1 1 i t i I 1 !» •x •z a 1 ^ g Jan 1 816 14 628 fifi 47 84 63 ti 38 31 1 °33 1 379 37 534 Feb. 1,606 109 1,161 64 39 40 38 24 19 •23 10 431 2, 1'26 35,061 72, 595 Mar 1 702 80 874 66 86 59 28 - 1 T 295 i fi.'U. 32 916 105 511 Apr 1, 372 743 54 92 GO 67 38 41 28 4 265 2, 378 43, 005 14«, 516 May 1 254 17 445 78 56 52 26 21 21 20 2 168 993 30. 755 17!) ->71 June 1 296 9 78ti :;r> 25 57 51 24 21 0 293 2,088 36,298 215.569 July 738 764 Q'» 150 39 °5 45 13 6 449 1 824 43 411 *>S8 980 622! 47 71 Bfl 14 IS 22 503 1,290 44 096 303, 076 Sept 1 012 57 833 115 31 51 15 17 17 IS 1 27 1576 36. 477 339, 553 Oct 2 389 70 1 277 150 «t 61 r>\ 27 •>?) :;<> 7 302 1 220 55 640 395 193 Nov . 2 430 55 969 61 55 56 36 14 14 10 3 394 1,035 38, 795 433, 988 Dec 1,832 17 1.104 169 134 47 85 24 20 12 .... 229 1,088 43, 049 477, 037 Total . . . 19, 171 =• 866 740 561 299 307 265 63 37589 17, 751 10,200 1,003 477, 037 2, 929, 289 110 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc.— Continued. 1885. Months. Gray goods. Shirtings. 34 inches and under. 35 and 36 inches. 37 to 39 inches. 1 O & 0 3 ••* •^ • rr Q 1 P» iri 3 •& 02 'O 0 B C o 1 o fk 406 7K3 746 1,091 535 713 469 673 934 278 231 207 oo 3 00 Jan 204 174 144 96 237 169 58 50 144 162 59 20 853 1, 331 1, 329 1,503 6 A o _g i 3 O f 7.7 pounds and tinder. t~ «« £1 oo ^ t-- 8 8 pounds and upwards. oo c4 . H3 3 ° TJ< ft ci M . ! s| si frl •pt 41 Oct . .. N«»V Dec Total... 160 178 7,239 2,677 2,238 2,151 1, 939 j 2, 134 615 8,984 5,127 127 cor ION TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement *ho icing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1885— Continued. 111 Gray goods. Mulls. T-cloths. Dhooty bordered. I OD 3 Months. i I I « S 1-g i • o — . _= | oc 1 •f 1 1 1 | 1 1 1 a 5* = C5 CO 1 3' 1 "* 3 CO 1 m 1 CO 1 I 1 s A O | 1 I I ** 1 3. o H 1 Tan 10 10 314 186 189 ' ""> 4 349 79 I 939 44 25 °6 269 115 261 70 34 39 3,267 4 8 14 Mar g 64 293 177 150 «>0 335 46 3, 721 o IS A nr "0 75 358 42 86 i 67 1 17 4 632 56 10 M iv 30 185 48 103 j 34 4 676 67 3 020 9 0] 55 391 86 110 72 1° 1 923 208 5, 032 28 »i 14 T 11 1 v 41 243 4 52 149 17 188 228 3 394 5 ?7 44 627 105 83 126 58 210 254 5.953 14 in 34 Sept fi 91 484 93 123 162 T> 648 1, 256 5, 973 31 17 44 2 24 318 48 109 133 64 301 1,166 4,754 78 37 77 X,,v 9 Q- 280 81 137 77 9 265 806 3, 332 14 i 68 Dec SO 185 125 33 78 44 163 930 3, 408 Itt ft 50 Total ia =>m 3 947 1 110 1 436 1 111 282 5 504 5 1^" .18 4.1 8 9 U •>14 338 '1 Months. I 1 Jaconets. Mulls. 00 1 "O I 1 O 1 S 1 m S f 1Y p,® s 0 ! 1 SSi 11 s i | 1 3 31 & 14 H 1 a s *s is f f *g §•§ f O ! 3 3 3 1 Q 5 3 § 1 5 o 973 326 918 608 923 733 997 636 620 250 610 374 458 267 828 606 780 361 692 22C 602 221 392 168 189 345 349 343 134 192 251 •240 221 182 193 231 549 995 1, 026 858 496 684 669 1,588 1,206 1,185 692 440 256 221 274 135 21 89 8 137 107 103 105 76 97 120 183 159 60 97 34 148 133 66 37 68 577 •937 975 718 413 582 604 893 821 569 527 589 66 121 86 102 81 57 104 59 131 149 186 188 2 50 71 13 59 24 1 9 8 7 9 5 25 37 42 16 34 22 16 42 18 74 36 100 30 19 51 57 20 44 27 24 41 35 37 70 148 96 140 129 49 75 30' 60 62 55 55 36 035 106 79 169 134 41 154 37 147 97 82 102 92 574 347 359 645 152 320 69 273 123 621 161 244 Feb M:ir Apr Mav June Julv . Sept Oct Nov Dec Total . . 8, 793 4, 776 2,882 ,10,388 1,532 1,202 8,205 1,333 258 462 455 1,240 3,888 11 2 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1885— Continued. Months. White goods. Colored goods. 4 1 1 1 p 306 295 254 144 108 444 339 594 487 333 281 122 05 a cS 39 16 37 31 42 15* 270 178 128 94 14 60 3<.) 22 67 71 43 136 i:> 124 14 249 41 146 53 58 8 70 12 87 6 116 7 4 20 120 107 208 94 492 636 459 287 193 24 49 44 3 67 4 34 6 24 13 68 14 39 150 182 2136 254 47 208 9,r> 155 56 124 254 302 426 350 220 240 185 201 185 210 138 227 25 13 31 20 16 23 14 19 52 29 16 19 143 118 184 111 87 200 276 310 331 189 215 212 437 649 745 635 203 299 182 148 264 258 202 204 «,- :: Apr May Jmif July V)ct SOT Total.... 602 1,092 323 1,292 2.627 678 1,248 ! i : 2,938 277 2, 376 . 4, 226 1 60SA- 114 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported Into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1885— Continued. Months* Yarn and twist. Gray yarns. 8 15 31 37 13 26 25 27 18 31 21 17 269 1 Colored yarns. .2 i i H Monthly total. Totals from Jan. 1. $ « 01 g I 1 i § 1 79 53 29 51 56 127 90 194 139 111 69 28 t- jj 110s. and up- ward s. Assorted numbers. 2 055 638 600 812 1.272 879 1, 195 808 1,700 557 405 789 788 28 35 37 85 97 91 151 173 177 64 108 18 1,064 38 30 95 81 24 64 29 36 35 56 30 63 37 23 52 78 20 39 55 57 40 78 48 35 11 15 34 34 13 19 14 18 12 26 22 16 4 17 27 19 9 12 5 14 19 15 21 14 1 8 2 10 12 2 1 12 52 148 209 304 316 258 157 169 167 190 181 283 278 395 1,103 1,245 1.188 1J327 909 1,186 441 755 539 739 923 1,041 29, 016 36, 488 42, 164 41, 437 25, 614 38, 712 28,516 51,904 47, 655 37, 854 32, 510 31, 623 Feb 1, 542 1,179 842 1 6 42 65, 504 107, 668 149, 105 174, 719 213,431 241,987 293, 891 341, 546 379, 400 411, 910 443, 533 Mar Apr May Juno 1,176 1, 492 2,175 2,190 1,070 701 2,230 38 32 20 25 2 July All£ Sept Oct Nov Dec Total.... 17, 378 248 10, 443 1,026 581 234 176 2,907 11. 396 443, 493 2,822, 694 1880. Months. Gray goods. Shirtings. I* o> "3 a 3 «g o • 1 o p JJ CO _o cs 4 t I m t^ 3 •<*< t-^ rf p p 0 Pi 00 o oc 1 • o 04 ai £ 54 CO 93 T3 p 1 .H O _o w os ^3 d il l| f» s ^ Jan 154 210 189 98 107 130 118 55 152 2,689 3, 158 4,046 5,317 5, 129 6, 433 5,846 4,840 6 492 13 ..... 11 23 39 11 2 49 93 67 65 107 38 32 74 2 32 114 95 117 237 168 44 66 13 8 25 195 246 552 351 344 322 317 162 45 31 30 405 507 657 7'»1 470 938 618 360 336 240 281 360 3,378 3,723 4, 334 5,433 4, 954 5, 034 4,797 3, 355 3,064 1, 885 2,496 2,155 3,013 3.304 3,151 3,544 3, 079A 2. 924* 2, 835 1,828 1,806 1,224 1,025 1,310 2,299 2,876 2, 941 3,332 2,252 1, 637 1,495 1,435 1,115 653 710 704 846 910 1,325 1,203 509 571 494 574 509 226 320 346 Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept ... Oct 140 88 136 5,013 5, 988 8,274 "10 Nov Dec Total. .. 1,577 62, 225 271 105 529 925 1, 127" 2,873 5,873 44, 608 29, 043 21 449 7,833 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 115 Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1886 -Continued. Months. Gray goods. Shirtings. Madapollama. Jaconets. 42 to 45 inches. 47 to 51 inches. It = s & 32 inches and under. 45 inches and upwarda. 39 inches. 44 iuches. 49 to 50 inches. 7.7 pounds mid under. =4 S| • a S.Spounds iilld up- wards. 00 -.3 «s M "* n si li si 923 1,380 1,617 1,645 941 1,016 964 664 540 468 898 793 167 157 194 241 <;;* 216 389 804 767 571 486 177 40 56 39 127 176 81 383 692 523 382 260 179 46 170 131 124 90 181 191 •J85 453 378 449 343 74 159 197 309 333 157 260 144 I'O 138 195 175 242 195 218 226 136 203 221 279 190 89 39 59 63 96 93 132 6H 89 27 54 GO 23 11 15 429 811 730 1,000 1,138 743 1,241 1,190 1,216 1,200 1,150 1,571 196 291 292 332 316 381 480 425 450 216 141 216 3 »1> 7 116 195 301 112 17 52 Mar 4 8 15 16 17 7 18 25 13 11 Apr MAY 12 17 July A ne 10 Sept Oct ... . 34 Nov Dec 5 Total... 80 798 11,849 4,232 2,938 2,841 2.271 2, 097 731 12, 419 3,736 137 Months. Gray goods. Malls. T-cloths. 1 1 02 B T; g I 1 1 1 Dhooty bordered. Sundries not classi- fied. 1 D ja i 3 — o = 3 1 TJI 3 n a5 ! ! d 3 t~ 1 *J i 1 1 4 • ^ ,3 9 1 H Jan 10 14 8 14 41 18 40 15 20 60 84 107 123 74 75 24 18 21 224 426 375 675 367 376 298 535 485 391 498 422 127 174 66 72 65 104 78 38 31 51 224 242 62 34 75 43 145 123 84 43 40 14 9G 124 159 113 112 168 110 67 71 91 23 37 81 144 15 71 20 6 8 26 30 7 26 14 392 293 1542 530 505 371 223 416 555 557 715 953 109 46 49 136 40 299 286 780 866 1,783 1,438 254 2,856 3,514 4,506 5,001 4,654 5,103 7,053 6,045 7,274 4,892 6,190 7,173 64, 261 20 25 36 23 36 28 44 16 11 23 36 11 30 40 30 24 1 8 13 17 46 38 40 22 Feb Mar Apr May 5 50 92 85 46 56 79 July . Sept Oct 8 Xov Dec 15 Total . . . 180 726 ...5,072 1,272 883 1,176 233 |6, 152 6,086 309 171 559 116 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1886— Continued. Months. "White goods. & a 2 cc Jaconets. Mulls. ^=t CO 0 O i S A o .2 \n «W _0 o ro V A o a '5 _0 o •^ I a ft i h 9 > O 25 36 9 10 30 67 19 9 16 29 13 38 Jan 650 636 652 1,141 689 1,069 1,137 1,199 1,164 1,103 1,164 1,069 139 209 331 563 481 418 392 510 599 445 391 405 196 524 338 415 315 466 513 477 713 382 383 383 579 8!-0 1, 282 1, 659 1,145 935 1,738 1,557 1,569 1,108 1,172 1, 052 67 186 168 208 157 138 226 116 173 74 187 147 98 110 155 183 140 140 260 256 366 229 362 625 1 1 1 1 723 867 796 346 983 076 003 836 660 738 812 ,235 94 150 212 237 279 240 233 167 90 142 96 63 13 26 38 54 34 18 23 18 26 3 7 4 69 54 98 132 111 60 «4 113 136 76 72 54 168 172 123 157 220 231 201 114 93 132 127 127 522 492 369 374 253 272 272 99 400 160 251 398 Feb Mar Apr May July Aug ........ Sept Oct Nov Dec Total... 11, 673 1.883 5, 135 j 14, 676 1,847 2, 924 ill 075 2,003 301 264 1,059 730 1,865 3,862 Months. White goods. Colored goods. <£ 1 i I j 2 | P i I "3 rt « "S p *» •8-d s« «,S 2 °° 1 § Turkey-red. Cambrics. | 1 ,a cc n 1 1 ,2 "3 .1 £ B 3 ij =! |S ! 7-8. 9-8. Jan 666 946 953 909 998 ,033 ,361 ,435 ,674 ,445 ,319 ,109 76 70 57 65 73 54 84 73 64 63 107 111 282 241 215 2-22 170 302 307 370 417 235 235 389 86 56 110 56 121 67 70 20 30 19 29 2t 49 35 94 59 100 70 45 9 41 15 41 54 1, 458 1,460 1,468 1,737 1,670 1,854 2,425 1,868 1,776 1,017 1,905 2, 099 57 171 134 155 210 23!) 167 187 154 333 234 109 398 695 678 1,038 1, 206 1,201 1,540 1, 102 906 735 1,022 1,299 29 39 70 61 38 47 100 93 70 29 18 18 108 210 169 45 100 95 139 103 115 69 21 45 Feb 3 17 2 2 9 7 Mar Apr ""37" 6 5 May Jnlv 4 Au2 46 9 20 28 25 Sept Oct Nov 14 11 37 Dec 3 Total . . . 13,848 897 3,385 685 612 20, 737 2,150 11, 820 612 1,219 1$2 109 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement shouting piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1886— Continued. 117 Months. Colored goods. Turkey-red. Dyed. Prints. £ Sarries and dresses. o |« a 03 Shirtings. •j 1? 1= Cambrics and mad- apollams. A g Sundries not classi- fied. 7-8. 9-8. Jan Feb .. . 90 140 61 102 81 53 286 256 198 163 168 129 65 84 94 79 47 118 184 46 10 5 62 31 182 128 99 178 113 110 135 133 245 119 154, 156 74 114 188 210 97 115 48 101 182 67 94 28 49 14 46 32 2 12 3 20 7 10 5 4 153 180 230 301 180 213 178 164 280 94 175 105 9 30 24 93 55 47 48 16 17 26 51 48 190 210 206 258 225 202 334 325 323 202 165 159 ~2,~799 M ir 5 15 Mav .Inn.- Julv . . 3 0 An-- 10 Sept 3 12 28 3 4 Oit •to* 3 11 Dec . . . is 3 56 Total 1,727 825 45 1,752 23 1,318 201 2,253 464 uoiorea gooas. Printed. Woolens. Months. Cambrics. •d 1 S J % § i •N d | 1 0 1 II ----- w aj ^ i i |1 ** "3 <~z "o a .2 "3 a I •c s f f a; £ H 1 K e — O S i 1 Jan 2 43 979 249 15 53 50 103 27 27 69 138 F.-I, 37 595 202 32 22 14 79 9 14 45 106 Mar 17 863 316 28 51 19 75 16 29 79 227 Apr 1 74 900 476 34 68 27 80 3 22 57 134 M 'iv 4 8L ills'.) 690 39 64 10 77 14 59 109 JllllH 51 1 ti1'1' 70(5 37 58 79 230 30 13 25 235 Julv <; 115 2 496 ^"'l 95 64 CO 639 on 70 45 orin An" 173 2 950 "•*' 19° 83 140 661 65 203 60 508 4 172 3,679 1,052 50 52 238 626 67 19J 80 669 0<-t M 1,900 900 10 184 190 361 36 97 74 351 Nov 4 131 1,735 533 50 64 192 365 38 76 103 383 Dec 2 n 934 310 7 29 77 220 2 25 72 260 Total... 22 1,046 19,592 7,126 589 792 1,094 3,516 323 789 768 3,420 118 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1886— Continued. Months. Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Got Nov Deo... Total Sundries. 79 45 41 103 51 38 39 9 43 7 3 44 502 1,780 13 24 25 32 23 29 2(3 23 21 20 8 10 "254" 76 69 52 48 95 68 76 110 69 26 126 93 Shawls. "3 a as 67 7 14 8 51 28 233 829 990 743 462 115 3,547 23 22 43 85 198 150 96 30 42 706 w 128 39 27 34 20 27 59 91 168 154 193 106 1,049 Cotton thread. 159 175 158 243 125 152 160 197 235 166 217 143 2, 130 54 25 10 37 7 14 24 29 12 55 55 28 350 190 261 276 189 155 194 205 271 446 225 210 162 I 2,784 4, IK; Months. Jan Feb Mar Apr May June Yarn and twist. Gray yarns. Aug ________ Sept ........ Oct ......... Nov ........ Dec ......... Total... 2,082 1,732 2,013 1,570 1,104 1,609 1, 783 3, 176 837 ! 738 1,352 1,720 19, 716 1,146 1,561 948 502 811 817 291 435 690 901 9,607 57 60 118 210 359 91 105 145 99 54 81 100 1,279 100 41 71 ' 45 165 I 58 121 47 92 80 51 57 29 i 49 53 40 93 j 80 83 34 140 32 127 59 1,125 (i22 a? 10 18 30 24 26 30 ! 27 28 ! 24 255 265 455 287 220 260 346 321 479 236 97 29 308 300 1 1, 240 1,213 1,425 1,317 1,409 1,770 2, 230 1,597 1,431 624 735 1,082 34, 587 39, 028 44, 497 52, 571 44,818 46. 749 55, 035 51, 755 53, 000 38, 495 43, 929 88 3,338 16,073 550,103 3,46i.6:>2 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 119 Statement slowing piece goods imported Into Calcutta, i't<:— Continued. 1887. Months. Gray goods. Shirtings. 1 rz - c; 1 =. A 35 to 39 inches. 41 to 44 inches. 47 to 51 inches. j 52inclu's and ujiv, t- ^i , ,2 | * ••* o ••* • \ 0 o 3 r2 s I 0 227 170 374 91 10 75 84 366 279 183 238 157 | | ift t^ o t~ 00 . t3 I 2 2 00 •r 1 5 2 CM cc 9.12tol0.11iHMinds. 10.12 pounds and upwards. 1 1 11 \ a° | t- X OD * 168 123 52 146 137 94 49 36 88 35 214 42 46 59 ~ 50 15 28 1,021 1,155 1,232 1,418 1.470 1,087 720 1,592 1,445 1,604 1,174 899 4,024 4,674 5, 754 5, 306 4.H54 3,961 4,069 4, 99'2 4, 094 5, 434 5,086 4,374 2,454 3,569 3.747 5,829 4,181 3,209 3, 204 3, 251 2, 925 3,732 4,460 3, 418 1, 897 456 2,040 645 2,841 5 1C 4,003 1,013 3, 099 697 2, 070 498 1,816 314 3, 144 673 2, 569 675 3, 295 888 3,086 1,031 2,909 1,015 "54" 12 3 13 525 896 667 S94 800 443 4-j:; 636 488 104 068 980 18 64 6-2 171 100 If 7 251 501 482 473 204 138 Feb Mar 5 52 74 Apr 7 64 176 169 565 554 548 175 16 May... Julv 103 154 121 278 244 250 3 10 ""5 .... Si-pt Oct 15 .-> 1 5 1 9 Nov Dec Total... 1,878 147 662 2/254 14, 817 56, 622 43, 979 32,769 8.421 118 8,924 2,631 2, 282 Mouths. Gray goods. Madapollams. Jaconets. Mulls. T-cloths. 32 inches and under. t;> in. In .naiid up- \\ ards. I Q s g 1 o H> -!• 1 i s » •^« A V 1 g • 6 | H< T | $ 2 g • HI 2 CO m | i- no "^ •o •/ 1 i- 00 li p 14 -i 3 C4 "* si si Jan 108 133 113 132 143 61 109 149 185 237 184 81 121 89 6.'. 167 287 215 262 354 2.^7 •299 278 115 117 71 1G4 241 154 2u6 91 292 177 MS 390 134 30 63 87 17 59 119 76 33 25 "is" 1,112 1,214 862 806 905 910 978 1,611 1,030 1,097 1,357 862 90 170 14-2 163 189 9-2 18:5 218 131 209 267 241 6 5 & 31 6 6 14 3 2 8 21 17 5 15 46 52 66 18 44 21 16 8 27 5 34 58 69 40 18 35 57 20 24 35 40 277 262 . 386 . 484 143 . 1!»U . 201 . 235 . 117 . 236 . 879 92 102 07 166 89 15 19 63 6i 143 37 29 78 77 74 e7, 2 80 119 5'2 39 18 74 75 94 99 40 97 53 •J7 35 62 66 37 Feb Mar Apr M»y June ""5 July Aug Sept Oct . Nov DIM- Total ... 1, 63f. 2, 469 •2, r,«c 527 12,744 2,095 156 335 4:5.-) 5 |3,324 8fc'8 120 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1887— Continued. Months. Gray goods. White goods. 1 1 QQ 13 P i 6 t 1 P Dhooty bordered. |S p p 02 & a 1 Jaconets. t/ a tj 0 ^3 cs 5 CO 1 1-5 13 03 J5 H CD CO < •4 I '! $ ll "3 £ o ° Jan . ... 379 889 381 132 149 581 140 384 588 891 531 641 84 83 145 105 229 224 491 1,383 1,193 1,149 730 388 4,213 5,640 6, 074 6,890 5,911 5,403 6,405 7,721 4,531 4,388 3,946 3, 675 23 11 41 66 45 41 101 90 42 97 140 102 17 13 3 22 720 824 853 1,129 1,093 651 853 842 424 765 1,033 949 8U 431 445 269 132 145 156 184 140 177 179 157 345 225 201 228 184 238 222 258 259 371 595 410 488 646 903 1,230 850 550 586 832 746 863 843 732 Feb 13 18 35 31 36 13 14 24 Mar 13 17 .Apr May June 11 4 17 58 57 67 63 28 July Aug 20 14 8 7 7 Sept . . Oct.. Nov . 11 9 204 Dec 4 Total . . . 5,686 5,204 34, 797 799 97 f 4 349 10, 136 2,729 3,536 9,268 Months. White goods. Mulls. p 3 1 cS I cd 0 03 I Book muslins. Checks, spots, stripes, etc. Lappets. Scarfs. 2 P 1 "3 3 P 1 1 '3 o p I 1 £ a ft ja f t> O 4 o •8 o t A O a i I J O Jan . . . 141 195 205 216 64 75 83 115 88 67 39 15 699 404 178 345 280 405 216 128 107 143 93 j 501 1,058 1,054 1,039 968 661 381 627 540 669 678 604 139 73 112 125 «3 80 88 163 59 86 129 102 14 30 8 ! 14 17 14 46 28 12 8 21 7 5 21 16 9 '"l2 10 33 17 15 29 10 34 7 ' 10 29 11 10 55 4 "22" 35 51 108 548 682 78 i 160 357 ! 905 73 183 288 1 1, 'J38 117 99 412 1,032 56 165 228 904 24 77 j 92 630 54 63 205 1,203 75 132 256 2,142 49 42 122 1,246 158 68 302 1,621 117 87 313 1,180 185 90 265 677 136 115 40 83 85 52 130 215 45 32 70 56 420 537 406 262 363 303 499 935 400 371 337 34| 26 63 44 44 101 50 51 90 44 93 49 105 27 27 98 178 88 31 97 63 51 85 138 177 Feb Mar Apr May . June. July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Total . . . 1,303 3,267 8,780 1,239 219 177 235 937 1,274 3,383 13,460 1 1,059 5,178 760 1,060 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued, 1887— Continued. 121 Months. Colored goods. Turkey-red. Cambrics. Shillings. d 55 45 23 590 777 ,037 ,690 ,428 ,596 ,057 ,618 809 ,368 ,381 929 39 45 18 95 43 24 41 44 17 22 5 •-' 54 107 22 82 95 28 72 119 68 83 86 82 5 99 106 9 79 34 9 61 53 4 35 25 5 167 10 5 97 197 119 222 128 187 200 403 96 2 1 7 24 2 2 2 3 1 Mar 5 1 Apr Mav 10 10 ~mi 60 112 lulv 12 60 17". 27 165 274 12 148 47 36 113 94 41 80 87 12 . 7 98 5 Auj; S«.pt Oct 212 26 119 43 1'Jl 90 Nov Dec Total . . . 14, 148 786 14, 280 395 898 6 1 167 914 VJti'J 40 J2, 171 202 Months. Colored goods. Dyed. Printed. Shirtings. • ^3 £ .2 "z, Cambrics and madapollams. oc 5= •£ - Sundries not classified. Muslins. Cambrics. Handkerchief 8 and scurfs. Sundries not clas- sified. fe« 8 ^ £j Sg a-g °f- 1-5 t-CJ 0 Over 30 inches. Jan 25 54 121 37 9 6 8 11 7f. i:n 84 13 7 5 7 3 2 84 79 93 77 97 88 8L 21)3 123 200 184 97 16 3 22 46 75 19 20 94 M 48 7/ 49 181 187 128 159 116 119 228 £48 157 232 215 212 5 10 .A... 5 33 399 82 577 321 «2 601 2.1 565 696 30 Mi:i 74 ],•<:«] 12U G7f> 22 722 47 598 10 293 308 561 331 496 475 252 523 424 282 470 380 252 44 70 58 41 15 12 133 113 30 45 67 52 36 74 68 65 30 25 52 60 46 58 55 136 Feb 20 29 23 1 Mar Apr il.lS •Jinn- . ... Julv An" "23" oU 7 4 4 3 3 14 11 Sept O.T . Nov. Dec Total . . j 574 159 59 1,316 529 2,174 25 i 570 7,352 4.754 680 705 122 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1887— Continued. Months. Jan ...... . Feb ...... . Mar ..... . Apr ...... , May ..... June ..... July ..... Auij ...... Sept ..... Get ...... Dec Total . . Colored goods. Woolens. 84 52 44 03 73 64 243 084 537 551 470 107 i 742 3,032 1521,172 If) •24 37 Ifl 34 52 12' 2:: 21! 7 209 98 1)3 Sundries. 627| 1,495 225 1,38 2,230 52 58 67 151 94 111 114 2C3 124 109 141 101 Shawls. o a .23 |I i 20 87 263 614 605 377 131 1 1 57 42 71 74 71 50 102 258 1771 263 102 339 45i 173 49, 123 16 125 Cotton thread. 213 189 211 245 175 105 112 129 47 111 112 93 142 185 157 157 218 177 226 433 273 387 315 27:; 5971,623 1,742! 136J2, 943 5, 676 261 420 622 833 687 562 563 664 179 327 263 275 Yarn and twist. Gray yarns. Months. Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Sept ..... . Oct ...... Nov ...... Dec... 1,327 1, 925 22 1,720 j 65 1,049 132 986 " 2,270 1,849 2,091 1, 628 1,576 1,922 2,074 Total ... 20.417 339 667 896 1,181 1,217 250 322 59!) 466 717 815 479 978 8,587 1,125 37 50 23 59 83 I 63 48 f78 •M 52 15 35 103 40 113 j 98 98 54 140 81 123 83 89 94 908 787 19 .12 20 25 14 18 32 40 25 29 32 23 289 Is £ H B 3 £ 'O "S 1 fl e 5 5 « ,£3 o ^ fl "o O H o H 297 1,078 31, 667 216 1, 182 38, 822 70, 489 245 1, 198 40, 632 111,121 292 1, 993 47, 828 158, 949 383 1,677 39,631 198, 529 110 1,225 34, 225 232, 754 235 823 36, 469 269, 223 403 1,124 51, 272 320, 495 253 681 37, 092 357, 587 376 1,059 46, 167 403, 754 485 1,246 44, 000 4 1 7, 185 443 1, 022 36, 653 484, 153 3,738 14, 308 484, 45fc 3, 054, 239 COTTON TEXTILES IX FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement allowing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. Mouth*. Gray goods. Shirtings. 9 1 3 36 to 39 inches. 41 to 44 inches. B O A % io 2 s OB • £ Pi Z 1 as i> | £J 00 -3 s 1 •* d 9 «o tfj 2 10 <9 1 JO 2 3 0 1 1 to t~' 3 t- 4 I r-t 3 3 CO | I £H 0k 2 S 1 1- 0 3 S »o 1! i» c_=_ ss 2 1 11 a0 t- 00 i ft oo oo Jan 168 35 *> 231 194 270 473 578 645 460 607 511 492 304 316 1, 080 3, 234 1, 140 3, 589 1, 092 4, 476 1, 567 5, 282 1,470 4,835 1, 492 5, 965 1, 655 4, 128 1,981 5,126 1,839 5,314 1, 840 5, 536 2, 125 6, 852 1, 885 5. 220 3,245 3, 632 3,343 3,112 2,671 3,104 2,189 3,265 2,817 3,130 4,460 3,594 2,679 2,377 2, 22! 1,850 ] ,9H ; ,977 1 ,085 ,529 ,765 ,582 2,288 2,356 23,620 i 840 994 969 ,116 705 666 290 494 647 732 744 508 19 MB 1,298 1,306 Qpfi 806 1,018 555 890 989 1,311 1, 193 1,070 81 30 21 4(1 20 124 78 51.1 507 f.f.O 2(52 6 18 Feb Mar 114 2 101 21 . .. Apr Mav 207 124 196 142 214 263 256 441 291 3 9 90 70 29 40 36 55 39 125 120 110 165 76 62 39 69 111 17 28 1IC 3M -l(il 556 502 133 y*J June July 25 11 G 16 26 15 13 Aug ... Sept Oct Nov Dec Total... 2,577 373 938 5,081 19,166 1 59,557 38, 582 J, 705 152 L2.327 3,167 J, 199 Months. Gray goods. Madapollams. Jaconets. Mulls. T-cloths. 32 inches and under. If o f a P. .« p 3 z 1 i 1 o — I | i 3 sf • • § I 9 I o s 2 S ! •^ 3 eo :{ 34 49 80 Feb Mar .... Apr Mav"' June July Aug Sept Oct Nov 2 7 28 26 13 18 "io" Dec.. Total... 942 2,276 2,067 506 16,752 1,818 70 551 481 19 3,859 429 329 477 124 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1888— Continued. Months. Gray goods. White goods. 1 1 GO • 13 s§ Q i A 0 1 e D booty bordered. 3 cd "S 1 •4J I -5 a E CC S, p Ti 1 Jaconets. 1 2 cc • S S3 "3 3 « 1 ^ 09 *3 s ! "o H ti o 15 p 1 1 o a i m i> ^3 O S |4H a> CO _o i 599 537 663 849 849 I '044 787 1,071 866 828 1,024 555 P< p M S0 «> = 0 Jan 15 7 28 4 12 33 7' 63 9 8 10 7 261 200 552 655 544 710 686 907 686 594 1,116 965 280 620 260 464 408 356 556 1,385 1,282 2,142 1.221 927 4,309 4,823 4,686 4,642 5,973 5 892 65 123 78 115 74 40 5 1 19 28 7 8 17 ,151 , 130 ,461 , 528 ,334 1, 495 9!),r) 977 863 776 952 721 312 479 311 426 294 282 166 230 171 222 295 264 812 925 9S7 ,458 ,187 ,501 ,076 , 432 ,588 ,108 832 480 Feb Mai- Apr .. 11 5 25 45 80 90 56 56 38 May June.. .. July... 4, 731 6,688 6,697 5,421 6,215 4,992 18 All** . Sept 12 97 156 90 Oct 2 4 2 Nov. Dec Total... 203 7,876 9,901 165,069 868 68 ...1 431 13,383 .0,452 ),672 13,386 1 Months. "White goods. Mulls. rr. S O ts S CS 01 .2 ,s O J ? H 03 a "a! s S 1 "1 is s- of 1 ft O .2 a> 1 • 1 1 1 | 1 S • p CS S T3 S 1 96 94 111 133 186 226 46 103 97 62 , 69 55 1 o ~0 p 05 'G 1 p p ni o ac t I* O .9 8 £ Si sl b O> S i 1 3 _o 5 1 0 .S $ 3 % 1 s 1 O Jan ....... 49 47 31 138 101 197 51 52 135 81 143 83 169 182 173 149 214 233 2;i9 510 613 525 525 481 67* 846 737 650 489 512 385 476 598 860 880 799 161 231 225 197 183 116 164 112 89 107 151 308 11 58 21 31 51 13 61 81 32 141 30 16 29 53 90 24 15 16 37 20 20 22 36 26 388 67 53 26 32 22 9 ""29 11 75 21 lie 10< 15< 12? 9£ 5S 64 104 66 72 174 74 66 11J 87 157 176 log 12? 130 104 85 34 85 50? 401 39f 294 22C 9C 354 ]4C 21 f 318 342 246 983 1,762 1, 161 975 i727 ,023 ,099 ,614 ,498 ,390 ,462 956 9' 184 13C 9t 7* ¥1 5C 7C 11C 71 46 49 390 3«S 317 344 178 253 35(j 613 526 823 271 151 113 100 187 124 150 99 92 55 35 81 36 79 Feb Mar May Jnlv - . Ansr . Sent Oct Hov Dec Total... 1,109 4,013 7,910 2,044 546 345 1,211 1,328 3, 524 14, 650 1,011 4,110 1,278 1,151 COTTON TEXTILES IX FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 125 Statement shomny piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. 1888-Continued. Months. Colored goods. Turkey-red. Cambrics. Shirtings. Jaconets. 1 1 Mull stripes. Twills and dimities. Prints. (H 1 Sanies and dresses. Similri' classified. i 1 t :i 1 00 Jan ,384 ,408 ,405 .466 ,463 1,564 1,316 1, 001 975 996 1, 051 903 23 83 98 83 23 73 93 16 26 14 64 16 662 535 5 735 2g 1,011 53 958 46 955 71 1, 343 99 847 39 717 21 1, 1*9 42 1, 557 80 1, 186 27 137 107 100 118 95 101 143 211 136 122 170 130 10 ... 17 107 37 176 141 73 185 115 60 60 17 46 59 69 91 75 90 89 32 75 47 60 17 lO'J LTO 181 157 334 68 287 307 186 -.": 141 113 86 10 12 19 19 12 56 44 56 Mar i Mav 10 1 12 2 July 57 5 3 6 18 16 7 Sep't Oct 19 1 If ov Dec Total... 14, 932 612 11,695 511 1,570 57 66 988 750 45 2,345 ! 492 Months. Colored goods. Dyed. Printed. Shirting* Jaconets. 3 Cambrics and madapol- lams. § Sundries not classified. Muslins. Cambrics. Handkerchiefs and scarfs. Sundries not classified. 7-8, under 25 inches. 9-8, 26 to 30 inches. 8 1 o p 0 Jan 22 21 87 5 15 4 10 3 3 11 9 16 8 14 4 10 16 1 4 82 147 147 132 85 69 99 171 207 158 129 77 103 96 36 42 58 73 67 56 47 45 27 56 295 298 317 282 240 175 166 246 306 206 231 223 24 13 18 47 14 67 11 183 143 65 187 121 893 214 352 265 389 336 428 823 889 867 1,030 1,002 539 248 239 452 485 489 471 578 630 838 744 571 432 103 86 59 83 49 61 57 297 37 69 34 41 57 125 45 88 98 193 211 379 174 65 52 33 Feb. . 5 Mar Apr 9 30 20 ""5" 2 9 4 1 May 15 26 39 50 60 65 17 29 10 June July . . Aug Sept . . . Oct Nov Dec Total... 376 49 99 1,503 706 2,985 85 7,134 6.177 976 1,520 126 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Statement showing piece goods imported into Calcutta, etc. — Continued. \ 1888-Continued. Colored goods. Sundries. Woolens. 0! Shawls. Cotton •Jj thre0'1 CQ a • £ . W) a •3 Months. a a — .2'S «, 5 o 1 to CS §^ 9 £? oo 8 1 ~ O 'C 3 a CS I 3 CG 05 ^A I a O § "o O 1 1 OJ 1 1 g Jan 26 169 35 30 84 226 66 109 4? 100 11 20 119 15 250 508 Feb 14 32 2 63 78 110 110 64 45 76 5 18 74 174 12 215 Mar 55 34 4 56 62 204 116 94 50 39 3 18 65 175 230 987 Apr May 381 40 31 67 3 1 39 60 81 150 147 102 98 22 92 135 2! 32 102 «•? 9 2 7 H 97 144 111 14 11 352 949 918 June 47 201 36 59 55 181 64 23 96 14 8 81 104 15 299 999 July 431 193 Ifi 77 79 235 134 9! 95 1871 381 76 120 14 359 657 Aug . . . 80' 498 27 174 89 634 4 39 104 934 38 1 99A 173 14i 420 419 Sept 63! 451 53 18V 82 453 17 169 30 83 651! 127 426 61 7! 350 289 Oct 102 276 50 185 75 477 4 125 5o| 74 518 89 371 144 19 303 499 120 150 45 267 103 329 25 145 4 81 498 851 Sfi.> 132 8 306 480 Dec 471 99 50] 117 222 7 70 \')\ 102 216 23 141 186 16 219 414 Total . . . 666 i 1Uw 2,210 2851,24211,055 3,320 483 1,331 357 1,034 3,048 475 2,167 1,643 145 3,556 7,885 Months. Yarn and twist. Gray yarns. Colored yarns. If "1 1 >) 1 H Monthly total. Totals from Jan. 1. S3 9 ^ cS^ I I J 1 1 1 55 45 76 88 62 87 49 69 44 38 50 75 , I 110s and up- wards. Assorted numbers. Jan 2,055 133 2,328| 15 1, 229J 49 770 36 898 15 1,2731 27 3, 412 20 2,346 5 2, 689i 11 1,676! 88 1,293 84 2, 940 .... 757 1,008 937 893 939 865 841 698 535 1,199 1,120 908 76 129 93 104 18 50 100 152 57 149 175 139 94 146 196 175 143 77 65 62 8 2 63 63 100 130 84 71 46 s ?! 71 27 27 42 38 17 37 21 32 21 28 28 29 21 38 39 30 16 21 18 34 25 23 27 26 26 40 31 18 13 20 19 36 17 21 18 16 "*3 o 3 4 "*6 11 1 1 2 4 429 575 642 662 445 170 161 164 151 257 527 633 1,498 1,240 1,333 1 429 1,264 841 880 564 457 636 925 1,026 36, 848 40, 847 40, 362 42, 267 39, 669 42, 732 38, 867 48, 642 46, 752 47, 224 52, 491 42, 779 Feb 77, 695 118, 057 160, 324 199, 993 242, 725 231, 592 330, 234 376, 986 424,210 476, 701 519,480 Mar Apr May June July Aucr Sept Oct Nov Dec Total... 22, 909 483 10,7001,2421,192 919 738 347 318 275 37 4,816 12, 093 519, i 80 3,207,997 COTTON TEXT1LKS IN roiJKKiX COUNTRIES. 127 BOMBAY. THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, Bombay, July 24, 1889. B. F. FARNHAM, Esq., Consul for the rnitcd States, Bombay : DEAR SIR : With reference to your letter No. 476 of the 18th instant, I am directed by the committee of the Chamber of Commerce to hand you the accompanying statements showing the quantities and values of textile fabrics imported into Bombay from foreign countries during the years 1887->88 and 1888-'89. As to the weight per yard, I regret it is not possible to give this in each particular case, but the average values of the different descriptions of goods imported have been shown, and these may also give you an idea as to how the various goods are purchased. As regards the place of manufacture, this also can not be given, but the countries from which the goods have been imported are shown as fully as possible. There are no import duties on any kind of cotton goods. I am, dear sir, yours faithfully, JOHN MANHALL, Secretary. Quantities and values of cotton textile fabrics imported into Bombay from foreign countries during the official years 1887-'88 and 1888-'89. Articles and countries whence imported. 1888-'89. 1837-'88. Quantities. Value. Quantities. Value. PIECE GOODS. Gray (unbleached) : Yards. 324,974,641 8,717 8,000 :;«.», 740 1,550 2, 5J8, 800 44,790 10,433 44, 029 Rupee*.* 37, 256, 705 4,113 3,906 21, 650 325 548, 333 9,544 2,226 7,773 Yards. 299,224,112 Rupees* 32, 653, 295 \ ii-itvia Italy 25,096 1, 950 627, 000 121, 528 21,600 64 78 10,156 900 13,566 230 128. 512 23, 914 2, 141 13 7 1,020 150 United States Aden Arabia . China JYrsia 3,015 2,157 280 :<27 Straits Settlement Total 'r!7, C66, 47* 37, 855, 182 300, 032, 484 32, 822, 848 White (bleached): United Kingdom 176,017,058 375, 499 6,800 134, 962 21, 480, 823 117, 541 900 49,007 118, 564, 498 562,383 22, 325 34,879 436 350,945 2,000 245, 000 15, 900, 841 177, 018 3,231 11,187 463 110, 954 600 60,888 Austria France < r^nnanv - - Italy 793, 783 230, 179 United States 600 100 2,912 4,600 3,580 3,191 4.138 225 22 315 890 1, l!r, 630 692 Natal... . . . \ 1,470 Italy -Egypt China 1, 200 50 Straits Settlement 36 3,330 199 64 5 6, 985 66 128 Turkey in Asia Victoria .. 180 20 24 9 Total < 12, 092, 06!) = 1,007,672 dozens. S 1, 345, 041 i 10, 851, 8-14 < —904 390 V 1, 172, 674 "I Lace and patent net: United Kingdom ( dozens. Yards. 1, 264, 866 86, 087 10, 009 53, 5*8 6, 231 283, 538 39, 2(i9 6, 524 29, 3U6 1.724 Yards. 1,804,409 67, 462 11,919 31, 575 I 387,611 38, :«:!9 5, 525 20, 172 Italv EffVDt Cevlon . ...... 200 353 100 104 451. 851 China Total 1, 420, 781 360, 421 1,915,918 Thread, sewing: "United Kingdom Pounds. 308, 928 463, 490 Pounds. 361, 075 760 2, 857 2,526 484, 792 713 2,671 2, 647 Austria Belgium . . 426 2, 254 186 7,206 70 155 2,856 343 1,328 70 Germany Aden Persia China 1,000 1 3 2,500 1 1 Straits Settlement Turkey in Asia Total 319, 070 rupee = 32.3 ce 468, 242 tits. 368, 222 493, 325, *One COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 129 Quantities and values of cotton textile fabrics imported into Bombay, etc.— Continued. 1888 -'89. 1887 -'88. Quantities. Value. Quantities. Value. PIECE GOODS — continued. Hosiery, canvas, etc.: United Kingdom Yards. Rupees.* 046 M) Yards, Rupees.* 615 136 Austria 61 176 17 396 18 135 9 217 France 1 310 'g96 33 415 6 096 8 182 882 pt 75 580 United States 37 29 488 150 Ceylon 146 175 177 Straits Settlement g 62 547 6 778 Turkey in Asia 1 665 Total 776 651 658 226 Total imports of cotton fabrics 84, 625 998 79 374 350 * One rupee = 32.3 cents. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Bombay, July 26, 1889. B. F. FABNHAM, Consul. CEYLON. REPORT BY VICE-CONSUL PATERSON. (1) The quantity imported per annum is about 3,000,000 pieces. (2) The weight per yard depends on the kind. Gray shirting, for instance, varies from 7 to 12 pounds per piece of 30 yards. (3) They are purchased by the piece. (4) They are manufactured chiefly in and imported frqm the United Kingdom and British India. (5) The duty charge is 5 per cent. W. B. PATERSON, Vice-Consul, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Colombo, September 2, 1889. 608A 9 130 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. CHINA. CHIN KIANG. Table of cotton goods imported at Chin Kiang (from Shanghai and Hong-Kong) during 1888. "Weight ] Duty. Description of goods. Pieces. Length. per piece. Per piece. Total. Shirtings : Gray plain . . . 892 971 Yards. 39 Inches. 39 Pounds. 10 m. c. c. 080 Hk. tls.m.c.c. 71, 437 6 8 0 Manchester, England. White, plain 113, 894 40 36 7 080 9, 111 5 2 0 Do. White, figured, etc. Dyed plain .... 50 770 40 40 36 36 7 6 100 150 5000 115 0 0 0 Do. Do. Dyed, figured, bro- caded etc 19 936 40 36 7 150 2, 990 4 0 0 Do. T-cloths 06, 481 24 32 7 040 3, 859 2 4 0 Do. Drills: English 41,216 40 29 15 100 4, 121 6 0 0 Do. Dutch 2,280 40 30 15 100 228 0 0 0 21 660 40 30 15 100 2, 166 0 0 0 Massachusetts. Jeans : English 1 810 30 31 8 075 135 7 5 0 Manchester, England. American 280 30 31 8 075 21 0 0 0 Massachusetts. Sheetings: English 38 565 40 36 15 080 3, 085 2 0 0 Manchester, England. American .... 1,548 40 36 15 080 123 8 4 0 Massachusetts. Chintzes, furnitures, etc 69 213 24 30 5 070 4, 844 9 1 0 Manchester, England. Printed twills 12, 993 25 31 3 070 909 5 1 0 Do. Turkey red cottons Cotton las tings, plain and figured 30, 926 44, 475 25 30 31 31 4 5 150 200 4, 638 9 0 0 8,895 000 Glasgow. Manchester, England. 403 40 36 10 200 80 6 0 0 Do. Velvets 2,846 35 22 6 180 512 2 8 0 Do. Velveteens 1.112 35 18 9 150 166 8 0 0 Do. Jaconets and cambrics. Lawns and muslins Dimities V 6, 150 < 24 ] 12 f 12 30 42 40 7 2 3 SO 7 0 430 5 0 0 Do. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Chin K.iang, November 8, 1889. A. C. JONES, Consul. FOO-CHOW. REPORT BY CONSUL CAMPBELL. COTTON TEXTILES IN CHINA. The principal imports from foreign countries into China are received first at Hong-Kong and Shanghai and from thence are carried by coasting vessels to other points and find their way into the country Regular communication by steam-ships and sail vessels is kept up be- tween the great shipping centers of the world and these two ports. The carrying trade with foreign country is largely done through this medium, coasting vessels3 however, run regularly from these points to COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. the several ports along the sea-board thus distributing the cargoes dis- charged at Hong-Kong and Shanghai. The returns made by the cus- tom-house officials of imports received at Hong-Kong and Shanghai should show from what countries the goods received at these points were imported, whereas at other points all imports received through these two places are tabulated under Hong-Kong and Shanghai re- spectively. This statement is made to show that there is no way of ;isrt'i'tainiiig here the place of manufacture of the goods received here i through Hong-Kong or Shanghai. FOO-CHOW IMPORTS. The importation of cotton textiles for the year 1888 shows an increase over the preceding year. The total importation of cotton goods of all kinds in 1887 amounted i to 762,046 taels ; in 1888 the imports amount to 783,792 taels, showing a net increase of 21,746 taels. The cotton productions of America i show an appreciable gain over the preceding year. The value of American drills imported in 1887 amounts to 13,313 taels. In 1888 the returns show their value to be 15,330 taels. There is quite an increase in the imports of English drills. Iii 1887 the fig- ures were 927 taels, while for this year they are 3,226 taels. Coit-jns imported into Foochow in 1888. Kinds. Value. Kinds. Value. Shirtings: Plain Tael*. 139 763 Cotton damasks . .............. . Taels. 456 A\*hit« 68,321 10 004 Dyed 8 218 285 Fi "ured etc 6 044 Jaconets, cambrics, lawns muslins T-cloths 464 703 11 351 Drills- 5 967 English 3,226 Towels .. 1 363 15 330 1 738 Jeans English 870 Cotton goods un classed 3 677 Sheetings, English 7 Cotton yarn .... ...... 4 285 Ch'ntzes and furniture 9 533 Cotton thread 2 606 984 Turkey red, cottons 16,884 Total 783,792 Cotton lastings, plain and figured 8,175 IMPORTS PROM THE UNITED STATES. There are no means of ascertaining the kind and quality of goods imported at this port. There are two large American houses engaged in trade here, but, strange to say, most of the goods sold are pur- chased from London instead of from American cities. Various explana- tions are given for this, but the most convincing is that goods can be laid down here at less cost from London than from the United States cities. Trade is rarely governed by patriotic principles ; profit is its guiding star. 132 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. It is certainly true that the American merchants do not exercise that care and judgment in packing goods shipped to foreign countries that the English or Germans do, and this is having a deleterious effect upon the American foreign trade. « I witnessed an English ship discharging its cargo here and the dif- ference in the packing of goods put up in London and San Francisco was plainly seen. There was not that strength and neatness in the packages from San Francisco as in those from London. The officers of the ship spoke of this, and demonstrated clearly the loss and damage which resulted from careless and insufficient packing. The English predominate in business affairs in this country. The banking houses and steam-ship companies are largely under the control of the English. DUTIES ON IMPORTS. The officials at this port do not keep a separate record of the amount of duties paid on piece goods alone. If imported from Hong- Kong full import duties would be charged thereon, but if imported from Shanghai or other Chinese ports they would probably be covered by exemption certificates, and therefore would not be chargeable with import duties at this port. The import duties are levied in accordance with the British Treaty of Tientsin of 1858, agreed upon at Shanghai in November 1858. This tariff is identical with the tariff appended to the treaty between China and the CTnited States of America concluded Juy 3, 1844, and proclaimed April 18, 1846. Class 10 of that tariff covers all cotton fabrics and is as follows. \Extractfrom Chinese tariff.} *T.M. o. Fabrics of cotton and canvas : From 75 to 100 chik long and 1 chik to 2 chile 2 tsun wide, per piece 0 5 0 Cotton, allowing 5 per cent, for tare, per 100 catties 040 Long white cloths 75 to 100 chik long 2 chik 2 tsun to 2 chik 6 tsun wide, formerly divided into superior and inferior fine cotton cloth, per piece 015 Cambrics and muslins from 50 to 60 chik long and 2 chik 9 tsun to 3 chik 3 tsun wide, per piece 015 Cottons, gray or unbleached domestic, etc., from 75 to 100 chik long and 2 chik to 2 chik 9 tsun wide, formerly classed as coarse long cloths, per piece 0 1 0 .Twilled cottons, gray, same dimensions, per piece 0 1 ^ Chintz and prints of all kinds from 60 to 75 chik long and from 2 chik 9 tsun to 3 chik to 3 tsun wide, formerly called ornamental or flowered cloths, per piece 020 Cotton yarn or cotton thread, per 100 catties 1 0 0 Linen, fine, not formerly in the tariff, from 50 to 75 chik long and 1 chik 9 tsun to 2 chile 2 tsun wide, per piece 001 Bunting, per chang 0 0 1| *The tael is the Haikwan tael, and of the value of $1.21 in gold. 1 Haikwau tael equal 10 mace. 10 mace equal 100 caudareens. 100 caudareeus equal 1,000 cash. T. stands for tael. M. for mace. C. for candareeua. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 133 All other imported articles of this class, as ginghams, pulicats, dyed cotton, velveteens, silk, and cotton mixtures and mixtures, of linen and cotton, etc., 5 per cent, ad valorem. Articles not enumerated on the tariff list nor on the free list pay an ad valorem duty of 5 per cent. CONCLUSION. There is no information obtainable covering the manner of purchas- ing from abroad of goods imported, nor is it possible to give an esti- mate of the weight per yard of the cotton cloth used here. The greater portion of it is manufactured in Manchester, England. In time the manufacturers of the United States may be enabled to increase the sale of their goods in the far East, but competition is strong and active, having well-established communication and a net- work of agencies con- necting the treaty ports of China with the places of supply. A knowl- edge of the wants of the people is almost indispensable, but judgment in the selection of articles, care in packing, and quick dispatch, should never be lost sight of by the exporter. JNO. TYLER CAMPBELL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Foo-Chow, July 31, 1889. HONG-KONG. REPORT BY VICE-CONSUL WITHERS. Hong-Kong being an entirely free port there are no customs returns, and as no regulations exist (with the exception of those referring to opium) requiring returns of merchandise either imported or exported, the trade of Hong- Kong, large as it is, is not officially recorded. In the absence of recognized statistics, reference to figures is of little value ; but even a partial reply to the inquiries contained in the circu- lar of instructions may be of some interest. Hong-Kong being a distributing center rather than a place of con- sumption, the bulk of the goods entered here find their way by dif- ferent routes to the coast ports and ultimately to the interior of China. The greater part of the cotton goods sold in Hong- Kong are the prod- uct of Lancashire looms and are divided into two classes, plain and colored. These are shipped to this country direct from Liverpool and London. Some few imports of cotton goods manufactured in India have taken place, but so far only in insignificant quantities. The trade done in Indian cotton yarn, however, is considerable. American cot- tons that come here are merely passing through on their way to Chi- nese ports. Goods are purchased for cash by a class of middlemen acting between the importers and the Chinese dealers. 134 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The following figures are compiled from returns made to the Hong- Kong General Chamber of Commerce during the year 1888, and are, I am informed by the secretary who kindly furnished them, incomplete, as a large part of the trade is carried on by firms who are not members. These figures therefore serve only to show the nature of the trade, as they are misleading as regards quantities : Articles. Quantity. Weight. Width. Length. Gray shirtings White shirtings pieces.. do 470, 000 406, 000 6 to 10 pounds.. Inches. 39 36 Yards. 38A 40 T-cloths do 417 000 6 pounds to 8 32 24 English drills do 19 000 pounds 4 ounces. 30 40 do 10 000 do 11 000 40 do 3 000 28 28 Velvets black do 4 000 , 22 Velveteens . ........ . .. .... .... . do. . 3,000 18 10 000 UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Hong-Kong, July 30, 1889. R. E. WITHERS, JR., Vice-Consul. NINGPO. REPORT BY CONSUL PETTTJS. I have the honor to inclose my reports on cotton textiles imported into this consular district as instructed. It has been a hard matter to arrive at the facts outside of the quantity. As I had to procure information from native merchants, which but few of them would give, my report is not as full as I would wish. We have no merchants here who are direct importers; all cotton textiles are bought by native merchants here from importers at Shanghai. I have only given the weight of cotton goods imported from and manu- factured in Europe. I find that our American goods are of full weight, of better quality, and much liked by the Chinese. They are growing in favor with the intelligent Chinese merchants and customers. McCaslin & Co., American merchants here, inform me that they have just got in a few hundred pieces of American sheetings, drillings, etc., imported direct; this is their first venture in this direction. I hope it may lead to further importation of our cotton textiles. THOS. F. PETTUS, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Ningpo, August 21, 1889. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 135 Import of cotton goods at Ningpofor the half year ending June 30, 1889. Description. First quarter. Second quarter. One-half year. EUROPEAN GOODS. Shirtings: Pieces. 88 910 Pieces. 171 601 Pieces. 260 501 White t 25 671 14 413 40 084 T-Cloths 50, 695 53 520 104 215 Drills English 1 260 690 1 950 JVans: English... 425 370 795 Dutch -• . 180 180 Sheetings English 1,545 2 833 4 378 Chintzes 3 976 3 327 7 303 Turkey-red cloths 3 630 963 4, 593 Velvets 100 144 244 AMERICAN GOODS. Drills ... . . 1 875 1 410 3 285 Sheetings 6 120 6 580 12 700 American goods imported into Ningpo (in bales) via Shanghai, in the year 1883. Articles. Quantity. Weight per yard. Drills 13 984 Ounces. jj 4,060 G to 8 Sheetings . . 17 270 5 to 5J T-Cloths 1,000 4. European cotton piece-goods imported (via Shanghai) into Ningpo in the year 1888. Description. Quantity. Weight per yard. Manufact- ured. Duty, United States Gold. Shirtings ^rav Dlain Pieees. 421, 786 41,893 30,496 200 2,195 141, 876 7,730 60 9,900 2,670 4,250 11,660 3,202 1,676 8,820 840 Ounces. 2-5 3-5 5i-6 3MJ 4i-5 4i-5 51 "ilsi" 4-5J 2-2* England . . ....do ....do ....do ....do ....do ....do ... . Holland . England . Holland . England . do ....do ....do ....do ....do ? Per piece 40 yards by — inches, £ 8. 8 cents. Per piece 40 yards by — inches, 1. 65 cents. Not over 24 yards by 34 inches, 4. 4 cents ; over 24 yards by 34 inches, 8. 8 cents. Not over 30 inches by 40 yards, 11 cents ; not over 30* inches by 30 yards, 8. 35 cents. Per piece, 8. 8 cents. Per piece, 7. 7 cents. Not over 34 inches by 48 yards, 8. 8 cents; not over 34 inches by 24 yards, 4. 4 cents. Exceeding 34 inches by 40 yards, 8. 8 cents. Not over 46 inches by 24 yards, 7. 7 cents. Not over 46 inches by 12 yards.3.85 cents. Do White Irishes Shirtings, dyed : Plain Figured, brocaded, and spotted. T-Cloths Drills: English Dutch Jeans : English . . Dutch Sheetings, English Chintzes and furnitures Printed T-cloths Printed cotton twills Turkey red: Shirtings Cambrics 136 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. European cotton piece-goods imported (via Shanghai) into Ningpo, etc. — Continued. Description. Quantity. Weight per yard. Manufact- ured. Duty, United States Gold. Cotton lastings: Plain Pieces. 1 584 Ounces. Figured » ..... 60 Cotton, Italian : Plain . .. 2 248 Italv Per piece, 3. 85 cents. Figured . 910 do "Velvets 1 320 England Velveteens .. ....... 102 do Not over 34 yards long, 1. 65 cents. Muslins 3 550 do i Not over 46 inches by 24 yards, Taffachellas 5 781 5-10 do > 8. 35 cents ; not over 46 inches Blue Denims. . 300 6 do > by 12 yards, 3. 85 cents. Cottonades 20 5-8 do Dyed shirtings, shortcuts (5 yards 840 *3i do Japanese cotton cloths ......... 1,715 Japan Cottton goods unclassed. 624 * Average. PROVINCE OF KWANGTUNG. REPORT BY CONSUL SEYMOUR, OF CANTON. QUANTITY AND KIND IMPORTED PER ANNUM. The official return of the six Imperial custom-houses at the coast port of the province of Kwangtung, show that in 1888, which was nearly an average year, cotton manufactures or textiles were imported to the value of $3,062,640 United States currency. Of this amount about three-fourths (or $2,300,000) consisted of white and gray shirtings ; including the better qualities gray shirting cloths, which are designated in custom-house returns, and by British traders and merchants in mar- ket reports, as T-cloths, which are really " gray shirtings." The other fourth of imported cotton textiles (stated in their relative order as to value of imports), consists of chintz and furnitures, velvets and velveteens, dyed, figured, brocaded, and spotted shirtings, drills, towels, plain and printed cambrics, muslins, and lawns, damasks, quilts, and handkerchiefs, cretonne, mosquito netting, Turkey reds, etc. WEIGHT AND QUALITY. The circular called for " weight of cotton textiles per yard ;" t>ut in China, as in all other countries, such goods as " gray and white shirt- ings " are described, bought, and sold, with reference to width, length, and weight per piece ; and buyers and sellers also take into considera- tion the fineness or coarseness of texture, and styles of dressing, with the presence or absence of pipe-clay or other materials affecting weight and appearance; as many European goods are "loaded." Gray ehirt- ings in lengths of 38£ to 39 yards, and from 36 to 39 inches in width, vary from 6 to 10 pounds per piece in weight. Gray T-cloths (gray shirtings) in lengths of 24 yards, and 32 inches in width, vary from 6 to 8J pounds per piece. White shirtings, in COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 137 lengths of 40 yards, and 36 inches in width, vary in weight from 9 to 13 pounds, or even more for strong cloths ; and are designated as to quality by reeds 54 to 56 reeds being common, 58 to 60 reeds middling, 64 to 66 being good. HOW PURCHASED. Having carefully compared the descriptions and valuations of custom- house appraisers at Canton, with the commercial reports of the Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce, and the most reliable trade reports of Shanghai, for the week ending July 26, 1889, and reduced the Mexican dollar currency of Hong Kong, the " commercial taels" of Shanghai, and of China generally, and the " Haikwan taels" of the Chinese Im- perial Customs, to the standard of United States gold currency, I beg to state the following particulars, showing how cotton textiles, and especially gray and white shirtings, are bought and sold in Canton, and at the two great or chief mark ets for cotton textiles on the coast of China, or Eastern Asia, for Chinese consumption, or use. Canton and the other ports of Kwangtung province and of southern China get or buy imported or foreign textiles principally in Hong-Kong, where stocks are kept by the large and wealthy foreign merchants, who are well and widely known as commission merchants, ship agents, and owners, etc., to whom consignments are made direct from Europe and America — sometimes, perhaps, on joint account. The sales are made through Chinese brokers and compradores to native jobbers and dealers in Hong-Kong and Canton ; and payments are usually made promptly, or within a week or ten days, if not on de- livery of the goods. At Canton, as at most of the Chinese ports, the foreign merchants give their attention chiefly to execution of orders from Europe and America for the productions of China. The two ports at which foreign cotton textiles are bought and sold in large quantities are Hong-Kong (for southern China trade) and Shanghai (for central and northern China trade). The quotations of prices at Hong-Kong are given or stated in trade circles in Mexican dol- lars and cents currency ; 74 cents United States currency being about the present value of the Mexican dollar. When the goods are purchased in Hong-Kong they have not been subjected to any duty, as that is a free port; but upon reaching Canton and other ports of China the Chinese imperial customs collect a specific duty on the goods on the basis of pure silver, stated in the Haikwan taels, of the value of about $1.56 Mexican currency, or about $1.15 United States currency. At Shanghai, as throughout China, the commercial tael is about $1.39 Mexican, equal $1.04 United States currency; and the price quoted includes the duty. Traffic between Canton and Shanghai is extensive enough to keep in motion about fifteen steam- ships, aggregating 20,000 tons. Freights are moderately low. The trip seldom exceeds four days each way. Can- 138 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. ton capital seeks aiid finds employment and investment in all portions of the Chinese Empire and along the cost of eastern Asia, between India and Japan, and it is reasonable to assume that Canton merchants watch the markets of Shanghai and Hong-Kong to get the benefit of the lowest prices of imported cotton textiles, although the two markets might be supposed to assimilate by the ordinary tendency of trade. Fluctuations in prices of imported cotton textiles are more frequent, sudden, and severe in Shanghai because of the prevalent custom in that city of selling these goods at auction sales, which occur several days in each week, and tend to disturb and unsettle valuations. Thus Canton and other Chinese trade centers have to look to the two prominent markets-- of Hong-Kong and Shanghai for supplies of im- ported cotton textiles, and the prices of those two markets determine valuations of cotton goods of foreign manufacture. At Shanghai and Hong- Kong regular and accurate trade reports are published on Friday of every week. It should be kept in view that the Hong-Kong markets are reported in Mexican dollars and cents, and the Shanghai markets are reported in commercial taels, and the Chinese custom-house tariff of duties and valuations is in Haikwau taels. Quotations need explanation. In each tael are 10 mace. In each mace are 10 candarines. In each can- darinej are 10 cash. The value of the cash i» about 1 mill, or one- tenth of a United States cent. The commercial tael is about $1.39 Mexican, equal to $1.04 United States currency, and the Haikwan tael is about $1.56 Mexican, equal to $1.15 United States currency. PRICES. Cotton textiles, mostly for this province of Kwangtung, were sold in Hong- Kong during the week ended July 26, 1889, as follows (United States currency): Gray shirtings, 36 to 39 inches wide, 3&£ yards long : 6 pounds weight - -- $0. 89 7 pounds weight 1.40 8J pounds weight (3,550 pieces) 1.37-1.80 9 to 10 pounds weight (1,550 pieces) 2.00-2.25 T-cloth, 32 inches wide, 24 yards long (ordinary) : 6 pounds weight --. .89 7 pounds weight 1.22 T-cloths (Mexicans), 32 inches wide, 24 yards long : 7 pounds weight (7,650 pieces) 1. 37-1. 80 8 to 8£ pounds weight (1,250 pieces) 1.52-1.63 Drills (English) 14 pounds weight, 40 yards long (300 pieces) 2. 03-2. 26 White shirtings, 36 inches wide, 40 yards long : 54to56 "reeds" 1.27 58 to 60 "reeds" 1.63 64 to 66 "reeds" (1,250 pieces) 1.78-1.85 Bookfolds and fine (11,200 pieces) 1.27-3. 40 Bombay cotton yarn (1,490 bales) 45. 00-60. 00 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 139 The Canton or Chinese duty, added to the above prices, is about 10 cents, United States currency, per piece (8 candarines) on gray shirt- ings, heavy T-cloths, and white shirtings ; and 5 cents, United States currency, on light T-cloths and about 1 cent per pound on cotton yarn. Cotton textiles, mostly for northern China, during the week ended July 26, 1889, were sold (United States currency) in Shanghai (duty paid) viz: Article. Quantity. Weight per piece. Price per piece. Pieces. 3 000 Pounds. 51 $0 93 Do 3,000 6 0 98 1 05 Do 3,000 7 1. 10 1 65 Do 200 000 g| 1 42- 2 00 Do 9-10 1 73- 2 45 Do 6,000 92-11 2. 08- '*'. 29 Do 12 2 57 2 70 T-cloths 6 . 78- 1. 10 Do 7 90 1 25 T-cloths (Mexican) ... 6 1 04- 1 15 Do 7 1.04- \.40 Do 8-8i 1 40 2 02 English drills 15,000 2. 25- 2. 78 American drills .. .. ................... ..... 25, 000 2. 57- 2. 74 White shirtings 12,000 1. 69- 2. 10 English sheeting's ... .... 30 000 14 2. 32- 2. 60 American sheetings . .. 70,000 «4 2. 30- 2. 80 6 000 8-84 1 78- 1 82 Bombay yarns . ... *2, 130 56. 00-65. 00 *Balea. Probably three-fourths of these goods went to Tien-Tsin for distri- bution in northern China. The yarn was for central and southern China. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. Fully nine-tenths of the imported cotton textiles brought to Canton (exclusive of yarn) were manufactured in England and imported from Hong-Kong. The Japanese cotton manufacturers caught the idea of making nar- row, plain, and dyed cotton textiles of the ordinary width of native cloth in China, viz, a Chinese foot, or about 14J English inches; and last year Canton imported these Japanese textiles to the value of about $14,000. Probably three-fourths or four-fifths of all imported cotton textiles in China are of British manufacture, which are kept in large quantities in hands of foreign merchants in the two principal markets for foreign goods — Hong- Kong and Shanghai. With my No. 127, dated June 30, 1887, 1 sent to the Department of State twenty-five specimens of native cotton textiles, made at Canton and vicinity, used in Chinese garments. Cotton manufactures are being built up in southern China. This province last year imported (mostly from India) yarn to the value of $!>,612,000, or more than three times the value of all imported cotton goods besides yarn, and used large quantities of native and imported 140 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. raw cotton, which are indications that cotton manufactures are here assuming important and significant proportions. The Chinese will not change the styles or materials of garments, which have been the same for centuries, and they greatly prefer " home manufactures " to foreign goods for use. It is merely a question as to time when Chinese prejudice against the improved machinery of Europe and America shall be cast aside for the application of cheap labor to manufactures of cotton and other goods that formerly came from the western nations. In the meantime British goods take the lead, because there are so many and strong British interests working for the supremacy of British commerce in the East and throughout the world. DUTIES CHARGED THEREON. The imperial maritime customs tariff of duties is based partly on the ad valorem and partly on the specific plan. On gray shirtings, sheetings, and better qualities of T-cloths, and also on white shirtings, the duty is 8 Haikwan candarines per piece (about 10 cents). Narrow and light or thin T-cloths pay a duty of 4 candarines (about 5 cents). Drills call for a duty of 1 mace, or about 15 cents per piece. Jeans duty is about 9 cents per piece. Printed twills pay about 9 cents per piece. Chintz pays the same. On spotted shirt- ings (white) the duty is 15 cents per piece, and on dyed spotted shirt- ings the duty is 22 J cents per piece. The treaty provides for exemption of foreign goods, for interior markets, from all likin and other taxes, upon payment of one- half ad- ditional duty, but the exactions of likin-tax officials effectually defeat this treaty stipulation. COUNTERFEITING AMERICAN BRANDS. I once took the liberty, in my dispatch No. 75, dated June 15, 1885, to the Department of State, to endeavor to indicate " the best means of extending American commerce in the East," in competition with the formidable organizations of British and German merchants, manufact- urers, and capitalists, in strong and close alliance with enterprising business friends from Europe, in all of the cities and trade-centers of the eastern countries, and am now more than ever persuaded and con- vinced that nothing short of systematic effort and pressure by Ameri- can manufacturers and merchants upon native dealers in foreign mer- chandise, through trained and judicious American salesmen, will secure for American productions a merited share in the benefits of Chinese and other Asiatic markets. British cotton goods are branded to suit the favorable regard of Asiatic buyers with dragons in various forms, elephants, tea-caddies, and Chinese characters giving assurances as to quality, weight, etc., COTTON TEXTILES IX FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 141 with occasional mention of the u hong "or firm by or for whom the merchandise was specially made and imported. At the Industrial and Cotton Centennial Exposition of New Orleans, in 1885, were exhibited, through the attention of the Department of State, samples of cotton drill, of which large quantities, bearing as the brand or trade-mark the Dragon of China, and the words "Pure and Best American Cotton," with the name of a German firm, found in the Directory of Manchester, England, where the goods were manufactured for the Chinese market, where I found the goods on sale, and more re- cently, as you are aware, I obtained from the Canton authorities a proc- lamation for the vindication of a highly reputable trade-mark of an American firm, fraudulent imitations of whose labels were used in sell- ing an inferior article of food in the Chinese market. Such matters need attention. By concert of action, in promoting their interests in these distant markets, the American manufacturers and merchants would achieve many benefits. I see no means that would be so effective in guarding and furthering commercial, manufacturing, and industrial interests of the United States, by supplying Asiatic markets with American productions, as the adoption of a vigorous system of exploration and supply, by an efficient corps of well-equipped American salesmen, backed by strong and enterprising merchants and manufacturers in the United States. CHARLES SEYMOUR, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Canton, August 7, 1889. SHANGHAI. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL KENNEDY. In making reports on the trade of Shanghai, which I have done as often as the arduous and varied duties of the office has permitted, I have from time to time furnished the Department with all the informa- tion I have been able to obtain on this the most important branch of our trade. I can not obtain such information as will enable me to give a technical report on the numerous phases of this intricate business. The merchants here meet the sharpest of competition, and naturally will not disclose their own secrets. In answer to point 1, I beg to refer to inclosure No. 1, which shows the import of cotton goods from foreign countries for 1887 and 1888, and inclosure No. 2, showing the import and stocks for the first half year of 1889. In answer to points 2 and 5 I refer to inclosure No. 3, 142 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOKEIGN COUNTRIES. which is a report made by the Shanghai Chamber of Commerce, dated July 13, giving weight, duty, and market price of the principal lines of cotton goods. In answer to points 3 and 4, our merchants either have branches or correspondents in the leading cotton goods markets of the United States through whom they buy or receive consignments on commission. I have no data regarding the place of manufacture. Cotton goods are imported from New York principally. The Haikwan tael, in which the customs revenue is paid, is equiv- alent to United States $1.15. The Shanghai tael and the United States dollar are, for all practical purposes, the same. The picul is equivalent to 133J pounds avoirdupois. J. D. KENNEDY, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Shanghai, July 26, 1889. 1. Imports (net) of cotton goods from foreign countries, 1837-'88. 1887. 1888. Quantities. Value. H. taels. 7, 122, 074 3, 624, 469 3,653 295, 081 178, 223 2, 512, 468 515, 076 86,133 1, 110, 297 324, 440 C3, 788 72, 847 1, 358, 766 3. 311, 198 768, 509 83, 957 349, 159 1. 733, 991 18,920 251, 075 105, 503 53, 667 241, 846 51, 356 220, 855 12, 547, 653 42, 927 Quantities. Value. Shirtings : Gray, plain White plain pieces.. . ..do . 5, 340, 363 2, 196, 127 2, 268 141, 230 84, 285 2, 321, 512 288, 781 43, 501 465, 674 228, 002 39, 134 40, 486 662, 960 1, 368, 114 6, 094, 638 2, 941, 433 25, 678 195, 581 78, 361 2, 610, 426 542, 826 56, 970 496, 096 106,342 22, 650 8, 412 1, 039, 642 1, 557, 830 556,414 182,788 ' 494, 868 920, 741 3,238 51, 645 24, 294 368, 965 604, 032 648, 472 284, 229 683, 468. 40 1. 490. 63 H. taels. 8, 389, 516 5, 108, 698 39, 726 330, 106 169, 973 2, 973, 875 982, 324 113, 940 1, 244, 193 149, 251 35, 787 15, 603 2, 128, 646 3, 894, 641 689, 394 A 350, 925 513, 133 2, 454, 678 10, 718 256, 699 120,140 220, 686 241, 695 184, 403 323, 043 13,427,150 68, 582 White! figured, brocaded Dyed, plain Dyed, figured, brocaded, T-cloths , and spotted . . do do.... and spotted . . do do Drills: English do Dutch do do . . Jeans: ...do .. Dutch do ...do Sheetings : English do ...do... Chintzes, furnitures, and plain prints do — Twills printed - - .An ... 661, 875 46, 012 316, 823 636, 649 5,146 51, 129 22, 612 61, 992 597, 058 172, 444 242, 235 592, 867. 55 859. 96 do Lastings, plain and figured. Damasks .. .. .... do.... . do...- Velvets do Velveteens . do .. Jaconets, cambrics, lawns, muslins, and dimities pieces - - - - - - Handkerchiefs . .......dozens.. Towels do Goods nnclassed pieces . . Yarn Thread piculs.. .do Total 37, 047, 931 44, 437, 525 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOKEIGN COUNTRIES. 2. Description of imports. 143 Goods. Total deliveries. Total imports. For the fortnight. For the year from Jan. 1,1889 Against last vear to July 12. For the fortnight. For the year from Jan. 1, 1889 Against last year to July 12. Gray shirtings * pieces . . T-cloths : 161,472 46,258 8,314 45, 919 7,755 17,620 1,060 3, 050, 592 750, 893 184, 182 1, 002, 562 147, 518 163, 803 64,717 640 289, 443 587, 300 97,340 1,754 17, 359 130 140. 540 85, 381 43, 041 209, 657 17, 579 6,883 246, 108 160, 071 100 88,234 20,75 48,507 9,117 45, 026 35, 936 52, 402 1,040 244,998 2,206 14,745 3, 374, 115 778,824 110, 095 1, 006, 878 175, 200 155, 165 68, 714 6,945 503, 306 473, 886 85, 047 200 18,765 600 146, 099 99, 133 47, 736 204, 091 13,534 7,784 163, 806 183, 359 630 86,629 26, 718 19, 915 11, 067 48,334 29,929 59, 387 790 311, 742 1,039 17,129 152, 629 29,116 21,155 47,502 2,925 3,435 4,710 3, 273, 078 689, 657 274,941 996, 481 244,934 344,625 48, 791 3, 174, 654 832, 539 195, 955 1, 369, 379 288, 762 259, 490 91, 983 9,000 632, 653 965, 305 121,477 2,502 24,432 1,132 218, 880 107, 564 103, 411 242, 077 27, 386 9,615 368, 252 310, 033 758 91,196 29, 520 29,480 16, 228 43, 268 41, 237 80,978 540 712.483 3,296 18, 216 36-inch . do "White shirtings do Drills: English and Dutch. . ..do.... Jeans : English and Dutch do Sheetings: .English «do 21, 250 42, 075 2, 740 107 1,030 3,260 18, 865 2,332 182,585 433, 715 57,934 1,006 13,376 12 83, 610 42,991 38,961 185, 427 11, 495 7,430 197, 213 204, 055 9 87, 092 14, 939 21,146 8,243 56,015 46,560 60, 540 820 162, 172 2,002 9,117 Brocaded and spotted shirtings : "VVhit6 ........... do. 500 9 895 4,581 744 7,733 835 431 11,990 5,897 3,341 4,128 4,591 1,432 300 43 10,533 13, 691 630 54 746 126 2,250 Liao 3,730 *"*6"297' Printed T-cloths do.... Printed twills ... ........do.... Turkey-red shirtings .....do. ... Velvets - do Velveteens . ............ do Muslins pieces .. Dimities .-- .....do.... Cotton yarn : Bombay . . ...... parcels 5,312 417 1.162 253 2,490 2,420 2,156 50 11,223 Spanish stripes pieces . . Medium and broad cloths. - . . . .do Camlets do Long ells do Lastings crape do Cotton lastings and Italians. . -do L/u°*'crs plain .... ..........do Figured Orleans do 1,090 160 Goods. Stocks at date based on the chamber of com- merce returns Jan- uary 1, 1889. Stock as returned by import- ers, June 30, 1889. t At date, estimated. Against July 12, 1888. Gray shirtings* T-cloths: 32- inch pieces.. .. do . 1,181,625 385, 034 232, 514 571, 056 359, 601 183,857 26,150 616, 616 778,824 83, 400 449, 987 190, 334 88,640 88,337 22,260 326,946 632, 590 36,946 1, 280, 997 561, 194 201,454 565, 866 338, 409 170, 610 28, 703 do.... WTiite shirtings . ... do Drills: do do Jeans: do do.... Sheetings: do . 397, 148 540, 050 6,550 436, 315 580,650 21,581 do.... Dyed shirtings... ...do... * Including English and Dutch 12-lbs. t Exclusive of undeclared import cargoes per Malwa, Glenavon. Ghazee, Dardanus, Tangts6, Glau- cus, Antenor, Jaeon, and Pekin. 144 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. « 2. Description of imports — Continued. Goods. Stocks at date based on the chamber of com- merce returns Jan- uary 1, 1889. Stock as returned by import- ers, June 30, 188?. At date estimated. Against July 12, 1888. Brocaded and spotted shirtings : White 302 3,337 210 | 182, 340 93,380 154, 960 16, 800 9,070 199, 875 183, 031 1,775 14, 970 11,820 22, 152 27, 610 31, 749 30, 575 72, 748 660 409, 140 530 24,856 3,680 4,400 4,730 303 C 17, 965 i 263,423 19, 309 111, 263 32, 169 7,670 287, 829 122, 328 2,753 10, 904 7,590 22, 468 28, 287 29, 930 25, 950 78, 919 520 513, 674 598 28, 538 2,248 9,259 4,999 16, 619 157, 518 135, 096 154, 693 15, 880 13, 230 287, 552 165, 766 1,613 21, 260 12, 510 22, 432 25, 861 34, 750 31, 923 89,316 1,708 420, 065 1,598 30, 018 2,050 Dyed . .... do Damasks dyed do Chintzes do Printed T-cloths . . . do Printed twills do Turkey-red shirtinga do Velvets do do Handkerchiefs . Muslins do. Cotton yarn: English do Spanish stripes Medium and broad cloths pieces., do Camlets do Long ells . do Lastin^s . .. .. .... do Castings, crape - do Cotton lastings and Italians do Lusters plain .... do do Lusters crape do Import cargoes declared during interval: Sachsen, G-lenearn, Djemnah, Deucalion, Ulysses, addi- tionals ex Telemachus, Patroclus, Kohilla. 3. Weights, duty, price, etc. Piece goods. Duty in Haik- wau Sycee, at ex- change 111.4 sh. tls. per 100 tls. Prices at pri- vate sale. Prices realized at auction. Gray shirtings, 38J yards 39 inches : 5 and 6 pounds . .per piece., do m.c. >0 8 per piece- $0. 86|-1. 11 1.16|-1.43| 1.30 -1.90* 1.83i-2.22i 1.94 -2.40 7 pounds . .. do $1. 43-1. 87£ 2. 06-2. 20 | 2.29 9 12 to 10 pounds do 10.8 to 11 pounds . . do Heavy do Continental 12 pounds ... ... do T-cloths : Mexican : do 0 8 per piece £ 0 4 per piece < J I 0 8 per piece < L87| 1.00}-1.42i H231-1. 65J 8 pounds do Common: 7 pounds . ... do 1.05 8 pounds ................ -do Printed do Bombay : 6 pounds do 7 pounds . . . . do 8 pounds - do "White shirtings, 40 yards 36 inches: 60 to 64 reeds do 1. 721-2. 02£ 1.41-1.47ft 1. 61|-1. 90J 2 07 2. 10| 66 to 72 reeds do Fine to finest do "White Irishes An 2. 50 -2. 21J American drills, 40 yards '50 inches do American j 7 0 per picul ^ 1 1 2 chang of C 5 141 inches. \ 1 2 chang of 141 inches. 0 5 chang of 141 inches. /O 4i chang ofC 5 141 inches. > 0 5 chang of 141 inches. > 0 34 per piece 57.25-63.00 English 04-3'2 do English twist 28-32 do VV oidens and worsteds : Spanish stripes: Scarlet Assorted .per yard.. *do - .399-. 471 tin Camlets, English, 56 yards 31 inches . . per piece . . Long ells: Scarlet, 24 yards 31 inches, 12 pounds. do Assorted . dn 8. 88 -10. 28 4. 60 -5. 17$ Lasting*, 30 yards 31 inches Cotton listings and Italians Orleans, figured, 30 yards 31 sorted . ... do.... do ... inches as- per piece 6. 25-8. 10 6.80-8.70 SIAM. REPORl BT CONSUL-GENERAL CHILD. Cotton textile imports of Siam during the year 1888. Kind. Pieces. Value. 128 729 $259 458 177 015 283 224 16 180 2^6 696 Turkey red cloth 11 030 14 856 109 025 152 275 245 1 220 62 040 74 448 9 580 10 533 5 090 7 657 74 321 74 321 653 068 489 598 Chowls ........ ..... 102* 587 671 460 Total 1, 146, 910 2, 265, 746 COS A -10 146 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton textile imports ofSiam during tbe year 1888 — Continued. Kind. Quantity in piece. Weight. Yards. 38£ Pounds. 6-12 38} 6-10 * These goods are purchased from commission houses in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Penang. They are imported from Singapore, Hong Kong, and Penaug, and are manufactured in Great Britain, Germany, and Switzerland. Three per cent, duty is charged on these goods, JACOB T. CHILD, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Bangkok, September 8, 1889. SPANISH ASIA. PHILIPPINE ISLANDS. REPORT BY CONSUL WEBB, OF MANILA. As may be supposed, in a country where the climate forbids at all sea- sons of the year the wearing of woolen or other heavy clothing, cotton textiles form an exceedingly important feature of the imports of the Phil- ippine Islands. The millions of natives, the thousands of Chinese, and the majority of the European residents here wear cotton clothing, and, as frequent changes are necessary, the latter, as a rule, consider it expe- dient to have an abundant supply at all times. The majority of the natives and Chinese generally wear nothing but a shirt and pants of the lightest, cheapest cotton goods, usually white, allowing them to become very much soiled before exchanging them for clean ones. But as the material is the cheapest and flimsiest imaginable, it soon wears out and the wearer is therefore continually replenishing his waidrobe, thus assisting materially in sustaining the cotton-goods trade. IMPORTS. The only place at which reliable statistics concerning importations can be obtained is at the Manila custom-house, but the methods of compiling these statistics in vogue there are so very deliberate that it is exceedingly difficult, not to say impossible, to procure the footings of recent entries. And as the Government report for 1888 has not yet been issued, I am compelled to use the report for 1887 in order to reply COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 147 to the first question iu your instructions regarding the quantity and kind of cotton textiles imported per annum. But as there is no good reason to suppose that there was a marked increase or diminution of the cotton imports in 1888, or that there has been thus far in the cur- rent year, the report for 1887, maybe taken as representing a fair aver- age of the annual imports. In the following table the quantities are expressed in pounds and tons instead of in yards, as the custom-house records show for cotton goods kilograms only, and the weight per piece varying so widely it is impossible to estimate the yards imported with any degree of accuracy : Countries whence imported. Coarse goods, plain, twilled ; fig- ured cloth, double-dyed and stamped, inclusive of warp and woof'connted under a 6-milli- meter glass. Up to 25 threads. 26 to 35 threads. 36 threads and upward. Transparent. England Spain Scotland Germany France Switzerland .. Holland Belgium Austria United States. China Pounds. 4, 794, 944 23,388+ 37, 019+ 24, 389+ 8, 837+ 792 2, 017+ 26+ 858 9, 631+ Pounds. 1, 73 9, 837 30, 278+ 70, 334 26. 353+ 60,9264- 22,356+ 402+ Nil. Nil. 440 189+ Pounds. 372, 363+ 255+ 3, 920+ 6,784+ 17, 591+ 1,966 1,553+ Nil. Nil. Nil. 90+ Pounds. 524, 334+: 466+' 10,922+: 4, 349+! 12,432+ 20,092+' 3,951+, 451 : Nil. Nil. 264 ! Pounds. 82, 242+ 8 4, 017+ 270+ 5,880+ 4, 615+ 336+ 1,001 Nil. Nil. Nil. Total. Countries whence imported. Quilts and piques. Velve- teens, plushes, and veils. Tulle, lace, edging, crochet cotton. Pieces of stufffor suits, -etc. Total value in United States gold. England Spain Scotland Germany France Switzerland Holland Belgium Austria United States. China Pounds. 17,019+ 22 1,715 1,005+ 226 Nil. NiL NiL Nil. Nil. Nil. Pounds. 4, 078+ 149+ NiL 803 1,529 22 34? 9 NiL Nil. Pounds. 13,824+ 242 NiL 2,426+ 1, 141+ 319 19} Nil. Nil. Nil. Nil. Pounds. 9, 477+ 87, 491+ Nil. 8,186+ 2,884 275 Nil. Nil. Nil. Total Tons. 3, 779+ 71+ 63+ 37+ 78+ It 2 + *35 *1,298 5+ $3, 310, 937. 60 107, 316. 80 75, 364. 80 49, 595. 80 93, 108. 80 51, 056. 80 6, 295. 20 3, 095. 20 24.20 472. 00 655.20 4,067+ 3,697,962.40 * Pounds. Two thousand two hundred and forty-eight pounds of cotton lamp- wick, valued at $490.40 (United States gold), was imported from Spain during the year, and 242 pounds, yalued at $52.80, from the United States; 292 pounds of cotton rubber cloth, valued at $425,60, was also imported flom the United States, 148 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. WEIGHT PER YARD. The weight per yard is said to vary somewhat even in what are classed as the same grades of goods, and hence it is not possible to give a fixed standard of weight for each class. The following tables, however, will show the weight and wholesale price of, and the duty charged on, eight of the leading white and gray staples : Class. Width. Length. Weight. Duty, Manila Currency. Wholesale price per piece. Threads counted under a 6- millimeter glass. White shirtings: Fine white Inches. 31 Yards. 40 Pounds. 5.70 $0. 68£ *$3. 62i 44 Medium fine . .- 32 40 6.25 • 54J 2.87£ 34 32 40 6.80 .59i 2.874 31 35 40 7.25 .63 3.00 31 32 40 6.50 .354 2.50 25 Gray shirtings:', 'JTino gray .. . 33 36 7.50 .40* 2.374 24 33 36 a 50 .46 2.50 23 Heavy drill 30 40 14 1.21 4,00 27 * The value of the Manila dollar will average 80 cents, United States gold. Colored goods, prints, ginghams, etc., usually come in pieces of 24 yards each, weighing 3J to 5 pounds ; the wholesale price to jobbers is from $2.25 to $5 per piece, Manila currency. Prints of the ordinary grades sell to jobbers at from $1.62J to$ 2.25 per piece. HOW PURCHASED. Nearly all the large importing houses in Manila that handle cotton goods are branches of establishments in England or Scotland, which purchase their goods in Europe on private terms and send them here for sale. The managers of the Manila houses are, therefore, principally interested in the actual cost of the goods and their selling price here, and, as a rule, are not authorized to purchase new lines of goods with- out consulting the heads of the firm in Europe. This applies to the wholesale importing houses only ; the larger retail houses of course are at liberty to buy wherever they can make the best terms, although nearly all of them have agents or representatives in Europe through whom most of their goods are bought. When goods of a particular class are needed by the wholesale houses a cablegram or letter is sent to Europe and the goods are sent on by steamer as soon as possible. Goods are usually bought, I am told, on thirty days, or longer time if special arrangements are made between seller and buyer. Agents or traveling salesmen for cotton goods manufactories very rarely, if ever, come here ; a gentleman who represented an English woolen house and who made a business trip to Manila more than a year ago, told me that he could sell no goods here as the retail houses had representatives in Europe, and besides were not willing to accede to COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 149 any terms which he considered would warnint his giving them credit. He left, I believe, without making a sale. Quantities of fancy cotton goods are consigned to the larger houses to be sold on commission, but nearly all the staples are purchased reg- ularly at thirty and sixty days. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. As will be seen by the first table, England furnishes the greatest amount of cotton textiles to the Philippines, the major portion of which comes from Manchester. Probably 75 per cent, of all the white cotton fabrics received at Manila come from and are manufactured in that city. Last year there were imported from Manchester alone 4,374 bales of 50 pieces each, and 13,200 cases or 41,087,164 yards of plain cottons ; 7,603,542 yards of dyed and colored ; 50,964,227 yards of prints, and 1,074,700 yards of twist. Much of the underwear found in the larger retail stores — the better class of goods — is imported from Spain and France. These stores are generally conducted by Spaniards, and as all goods imported from Spain are admitted free of duty they quite naturally give the preference to them, although, as a rule, the prices are considerably higher than those asked for the corresponding classes of English and German goods. It will be seen that American cotton fabrics are not largely repre- sented in the list of imports, and although very few of them are seen in this market their reputation is excellent, as is shown by the fact that English made goods are stamped "American"' in order to give them character. I was shown recently a piece of goods made at Manchester, which was stamped in large blue letters, "Gray American drill," while 2 or 3 inches below in very small letters were the words : " English manufacture." The merchant who had these goods told me that the American cotton fabrics were much better and more durable than those now sold here, and that this fact was generally admitted, but that the prices were too high to justify their importation. The masses, he said, wanted cheap goods, and while those of American manufacture would wear much longer than any other, this was not deemed a sufficiently strong consideration to warrant the payment of the extra price asked; that several houses here had tried the experiment of importing Ameri- can cotton goods, but it had never been successful. AMERICAN VS. ENGLISH COTTONS. This information is given me by English merchants and importers, who are of course interested in English trade and in maintaining the credit of their country and the reputation of its exports. There is no American house here that imports cotton goods. In reply to my ques- tions upon the subject propounded to merchants here, the statement is invariably made that the high price of American cottons, as well as of 150 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. some other classes of goods, is what keeps them out of this market, but it seems to me that I have seen better muslin retailed for 5 cents a yard in Chicago and St. Louis than that which retails here at 7 and 8 cents a yard. It appears possible, therefore, that American muslin could compete here with the English and German goods if the proper effort were made to push it into the trade. The market is here, and it re- mains with American merchants and manufacturers to say whether it shall be monopolized by England and Germany without a vigorous effort at competition. While I have received circulars and letters from American manufacturers of other goods who are showing a disposition to get into this market, I have never seen any evidence that the cotton manufacturers desired to place their products in this archipelago, where there are over 7,500,000 who, as a rule, wear nothing but cotton clothing. At present there is not a single house here that imports American cotton goods direct from the United States; those that come here are usually shipped from England or are brought in by the captains of sail- ing vessels who have a piece or two, sometimes, to give or sell to friends here who want something better than can be had in the stores at about the same price they would have to pay to a Chinese peddler for English or German cotton. Spanish cottons would be quite as scarce as American were it not for the fact that they are admitted free of duty, for their price to the im- porter, I am told, is very little, if any, less than that of the latter, and their quality is not as good generally. -German and Swiss muslins and ginghams have a better reputation here than those of any other country, as it is believed that they hold their color better. The " American drill of English manufacture,77 just referred to, comes in pieces of 30 yards, 31 inches wide, weighing 11 pounds, and costs $1.87 J per piece, Manila currency ; the duty of 96 cents per piece added runs the total wholesale cost up to $2.83 J. American goods of the same weight cost, I am told, at least $1 more per piece. There are shirtings of English and German make that cost $3.50 per piece laid down here; American goods of the same grade, it is asserted, cost $4.50 per piece. An English importer tells me that a good American brown cotton*drill, 30 inches wide and 40 yards long, weighing 14 or 15 pounds, would have a large sale here if it could be bought for from $4.31J to $4.37J per piece. THE RETAIL TRADE. Excepting the half-dozen large retail dry goods stores on the Escolta, the principal business street of Manila, and a few little shops kept by natives in San Fernando, the entire retail trade in cotton goods is in the hands of the Chinese. They occupy little shops or dens, perhaps 8 feet wide and 10 deep, against the three walls of which are piled or stored in compartments their stocks of English and German cotton fabrics. Some COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 151 of the Chinese merchants have quite large and attractive stores, but the majority are the little dens just described. They fill one entire side of a wide street less than a quarter of a mile long, called the Kosario, a small portion of the Escolta, and one side of a block of Calle Nueva. Many of them sell at wholesale to, or supply on commission, hundreds of Chinamen who plod about the streets of the city and suburbs with packs of prints and white goods on their backs, or follow a coolie who carries a load of cotton goods large enough for a horse at each end of a bamboo pole resting on his shoulders. They sell to Europeans as well as to natives, and by far the greater portion of the cotton goods sold at retail are disposed of in this way, for the climate is not favorable to " shopping/7 and white goods can frequently be bought more cheaply from the Chinese peddlers than at the stores or shops. The peddler usually fixes his price at from 50 to 100 per cent, more than he expects to receive, and trusts to the ignorance or indifference of his customer to regulate the amount of his profit. I was somewhat surprised to learn that the average profit made by one of these peddlers on a piece of cotton goods of 30 or 40 yards was not more than 5 or 6 cents; that the profit made by the Chinese jobber was from 2j to 3 cents a piece, and that the importer was quite well satisfied if he made from 5 to 8 per cent* on his stock. For instance, a piece of gingham, 24 yards long, of the best English or German make, costs $5, list ; the Chinese jobber gets a discount of 5 per cent, by paying cash and divides this discount with the peddler. The latter will at first ask $7.50 for the piece but will sell it for $5 rather than lose the sale. It has become a fixed rule among people who have re- sided here any length of time never to pay the first price asked, but to offer from 50 to 100 per cent. less. Occasionally a peddler will meet a stranger who will pay him a profit of a dollar or more on a piece of cot- ton goods, but this is always considered an unexpected bit of good luck. But the profit of the importer and jobber is invariable, and the mar- gins being so small it will be seen why the extra price said to be asked for American goods may act as a bar to their importation. DUTIES. The import duty on cotton goods is as follows: Up to 25 threads counted under a six-millimeter glass, per kilogram 10 From 26 to 35 threads, inclusive 16 From 36 upward 22 Diaphanous cotton goods up to 30 threads 22 From 31 threads up 34 Added to this is 20 per cent, for the construction of the new port. EXPERIMENTS IN COTTON GROWING. Until a comparatively few years ago considerable bush cotton was raised in the Philippine archipelago, and nearly all of it was made into 152 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. coarse cloth for the natives, by means of rude machinery •; but it was found that the English ami German cotton fabrics could be bought for very much less than the Philippine goods, and the industry was allowed .to languish until it died out entirely. The rapid growth of the hemp and sugar trade here probably contributed largely to this result, for the natives, as well as the Europeans, soon learned that there was much money to be made out of hemp and sugar and very little, if any, out of cotton. But within the past two years interest in the subject of cotton grow- ing has been revived by the experiments made with American and Egyptian cotton seed by some Spaniards and Mestizos, who have con- ceived the idea that the Philippines can. be made to yield to Spain a rich revenue if the plant is cultivated after modern methods. The cli- mate and soil in some parts of the archipelago have been declared fa- vorable to the rapid growth of cotton, and the experiments, which thus far have been conducted on a small scale, have supported this conclu- sion. Last year a small quantity of excellent cotton was raised and sent to Barcelona, where it was manufactured into table-cloths and napkins and returned to Manila, where they were exhibited in the re- tail dry goods stores as evidence of the possibilities of cotton culture here, and attracted a great deal of attention. This has encouraged those who have taken an active interest in the subject, and it is consid- ered possible that within a few years cotton may have a place among the exports of the Philippines. TREE COTTON. The tree cotton, which is very plentiful in nearly all the islands, has been experimented with to some extent, but, I am told, without satis- factory results, the fiber being too short for spinning. Again it is as- serted that if the proper machinery were used for cleaning it it would be found that it .could be spun and might take the place of bush cotton for many purposes. Its production would cost nothing except the ex- pense of gathering, as it needs no cultivation. Samples of it were sent to England a short time ago, where it was mistaken, it is said, for Tahiti or Sea Island cotton, the fiber being found quite long enough for spin- ning if properly cleaned. Here it is used for stuffing pillows, cushions, mattresses, etc., but I believe that no attempt has ever been made here to spin it. It is thought, however, that if a proper machine for clean- ing and preparing it for market could be had it might be made a good profit-yielding article of export. ALEX. E. WEBB, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Manila, August 8, 1889. COTTON TKXTM.F.s IX FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 153 TURKEY IN ASIA. PALESTINE. REPORT BY CONSUL OILLMAN, OF JERUSALEM. The director of the custom-house at Jaffa refuses to give to any foreign consulate any such information as that required in this instance unless he should be authorized to do so by special order from head- quarters. I have therefore been obliged to direct my inquiries to such private sources of information as were available to enable me to give the following answers to your questions : IMPORTS. Cotton textiles are imported into this district to the amount of $120,- 000 per annum. They are of the following-named kinds : T-cloth, gray ; long cloth ; bleached shirtings ; prints. WEIGHT. The weight varies from 5 to 8 pounds per piece of from 24 to 30 yards, which would make the weight per yard range from twenty to twenty- seven hundredths of a pound. HOW PURCHASED. It is invariably the case that all such goods are purchased by piece or by yard, not by weight. The price paid to the wholesale dealers in England varies from 3J to 6J cents per yard, or about from 80 cents to 82 per piece, a credit of from two to three months being generally al- lowed. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. The place of manufacture and whence imported is England, and no other country, and the importation is not direct, but via Beirut. DUTIES. The duties charged thereon are 8 per cent, ad valorem. There are a number of small articles which would come properly under the head of cotton textiles, but which I have omitted from this report from the impossibility of obtaining statistic^ upon the subject. Also, the business done in them is of so trifling an amount as to render them of hardly sufficient importance in this connection. HENRY GILLMAN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Jerusalem, July 18, 1889. 154 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. MERSINE. Importations of British cotton textiles at Mersine fron 1he year 1878 to 1888. Years. American cloths. Manchester goods. Madapollams. Bales. Weight. Cost. Bales. Weight. Cost. Bales. Weight. Cost 1878 3,850 3,500 4,000 4,200 3,800 4,000 3,400 4,200 3,550 3,000 4,100 Tons. 500 455 520 550 485 520 450 GOO 400 350 550 $250, 000 120, 000 170, 000 190, 000 145, 000 170, 000 118,000 220, 000 110, 000 8«, 000 190, 000 4,000 3,800 4,000 4,150 4,500 4,100 4,100 4,500 3,800 2, 500 3,800 Tons. 550 530 580 595 600 590 585 620 460 330 530 $200, 000 180, 000 210, 000 218, 000 230, 000 213, 000 215, 000 230, 000 165, 000 100, 000 180, 000 2,000 1,500 2,500 2,720 2,200 2,000 2,300 2,600 1,500 2,000 2,000 Tons. 260 200 320 350 310 260 300 330 210 260 260 $100, 000 150, 000 125, 000 140, 000 120, 000 100, 000 118, 000 200, 000 165, 000 100, 000 100, 000 1879 1 1880 1881 1882. 1883 1884 1885 1886 1887 1888 TOTALS. Bales 108,170 Weight tons.. 113,410 Cost - $5,328,000 UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Mersine, September 1, 1889. WM. DAWSON, Consular Agent. SYRIA. REPORT BY CONSUL BISSINGER,* OF BEIRUT. I have the honor to submit the inclosed answers to the interrogations contained in cotton circular. It is proper to state, however, that much difficulty was encountered in the effort to collect approximately correct and reliable data and material for this report, owing to the reluctance on the part of merchants, importers, and commission-houses to impart information concerning this industry, for fear of prejudicing their own business thereby; and official statistics, as it will be remembered are not accessible in Syria. Even if they were procurable they would be of comparatively little value in a report like this on account of the rather confused and imperfect manner of keeping the records of the custom- house. Notwithstanding these obstacles, it is confidently believed that the inclosed statements are as correct and true an exhibit of all the . — « , . * Consul Bissinger, under date of October 24, 1889, calls the attention of the De- partment to a paragraph which has just appeared in the Official Gazette of the Beirut Vilayet to the effect that " Pursuant to a decision hy a special council of ministers, an imperial irade* had been issued exempting all cotton, woolen, and kindred textiles produced in the imperial Ottoman dominions from customs duties when transported from one place in the Turkish Empire to another." To fully comprehend this discrimination in favor of domestic tissues it is necessary to state that heretofore all textiles shipped from one point in the Empire to another, including Egypt, were subject to 4 per cent, export duty, and 1 per cent, when sent to foreign countries. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 155 "cotton textiles imported into Syria during the fiscal year ended June 30, 1889," as it was possible under the circumstances to secure: Quantity and kind of cotton textiles imported per annum into Beirut from July 1, 1888, to June 30, 1889. Gray cloth, 800,000 pieces, length 24 yards each, width 20 to 42 inches, price from 14 to 23 cents per pound, or 74 cents to $2.22 per piece (put up in bales from 200 to 300 pieces) $1,184,000 Gray shirtings, 200,000 pieces, length 36 to 38 yards each, width 33 to 50 inches, price from 14 to 25 cents per pound, or $1.36 to $'2.73 per piece (in bales from 200 to 300 pieces) 409,000 Bleached shirtings and sheetings, 200,000 pieces, length 39 to 40 yards, width 31 to 38 inches — most desirable breadth 35 inches— price from $1.42 to $4 per piece (pnt up in bales of 100 pieces) 542, 000 Prints (printed calico), 400,000 pieces, length 40 to 50 yards, width 20 to 32 inches — most salable breadth 27 to 28 inches — price from 4 to 12 cents per yard — weight varies considerably (in bales of 150 pieces) 1, 440. 000 Muslins and tanjibs, 100,000 pieces, 10 to 20 yards long (width of muslins 18 to 42 inches, width of taujibs, 30 to 42 inches), price from 35 to 89 cents per piece (weight varies considerably) 62,000 Yarns— bleached, Turkey-red and dyed (water-twist)— 300,000 bundles, from No. 12 to 24, reeled into skeins, put up in 10-pound bundles, price from $1.42 to $3. 10 per bundle 678,000 Sashes, scarfs, handkerchiefs, towels, napkins, belts, stockings, head- coverings (keffiyehs mendils), clothes of different sizes for the peasants, and sundry other cotton fabrics (of these about 500 cases, at $160 a case, or $80,000, are cloths in various sizes, selling at from 2.8 cents to 8 cents per piece) 165,000 Total 4,480,000 Amount of cotton textiles imported during the same period into — Alexandretta, including A-leppo, An tioch, etc 5, 318, 000 Mersine, including Adana, Tarsus, etc 900, 000 Haifa, including Nazareth, Nablus, etc . 52,000 Tripoli, Latakia, and all other Syrian ports, about 300,000 Total 6,570,000 RECAPITULATION : Beirut, including Damascus, etc 4,480,000 Rest of Syria 6,570,000 Total for Syria 11,050,000 For a more comprehensive and fuller understanding of this trade ' with Beirut, the imports for the past ten years are appended herewith : Imports of cotton textiles into Beirut during the years of 1879-'80 to 1888-'89, inclusive (years ending June 30). Tears. Amount. Years. Amount. 1879-'80.. 1880-'81... 1881-'82.. 1882-'?3.. 1883-;84.. 1884-'85.. $4, 698, 332 4, 833, 740 4, 486, 347 4, 486, 300 4, 7IC, 000 4, 950, 000 5,800,000 18*6-'87. 18*7-'88. 1888-'89. Total for Beirut. Average $4. 003, 000 4, 226, 000 4, 480, 000 46, 673, 719 4, 667, 372 156 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Yarns. — The yarns which are imported into this country — almost wholly from England — are used in the manufacture of materials for shirts, dresses, turbans, scarfs, belts, sashes, handkerchiefs, towels, inendils, keffiyehs, and notably for the manufacture of a kind of native cloth called "dima," varying in length per piece from 8 to 9 yards, and in width from 15 to 19 inches, price from 30 to 75 cents per piece ; also, in various textile fabrics of native wool and silk, in which the warp is produced from English yarns. WEIGHT. Gray cloth : Weight from 4 to 12 pounds a piece, or four-twenty- fourths to twelve-twenty-fourths pounds per yard. Gray shirtings : Weight from 7 to 14 pounds a piece, or one-fifth to one- third of a pound per yard. Bleached shirtings : Weight varies considerably — say from 6 to 16 pounds a piece, or one-sixth to two-fifths of a pound per yard. Prints (printed calicoes): Weight varies considerably — say from 4 to 10 pounds a piece, or one-tenth to five- tenths of a pound per yard. Muslins and tanjibs : Weight varies considerably, from 1£ to 4 pounds a piece, or two-tenths to three-tenths of a pound a yard for mus- lins, and 3 to 4 pounds a piece, or one-tenth to two-tenths of a pound a yard for tanjibs.* It will be observed that weights vary considerably ; the reason as- signed for this discrepancy is said to be not only due to the different qualities and weights of the textiles, but also to the " sizing n which nota- bly bleached shirtings, prints and muslin and tanjibs contain. As these last-mentioned goods are not sold by weight in Syria, the object of de- teriorating them by such a questionable process is not manifest; and although, 1 am informed, this practice in nowise interferes with their salability here, I would not recommend its adoption by American manu- facturers. HOW PURCHASED. All cotton goods imported from England are purchased direct from the English manufacturers, either by the agents or the partners of the Syrian firms, most of whom have branch houses in either Manchester or Liverpool. This trade is now largely in the hands of native mer- chants who have gradually replaced the foreign and English commis- sion merchants formerly established here. The English manufacturers have at present no direct representatives in Syria for the sale of their cotton textiles, and there is now but one English firm left in Beirut which is engaged in the sale of Manchester goods. On the other hand, by far the greater part of the muslins, scarfs, sashes, clothes of various kinds for the use of the peasants, stockings, and sundry other cotton * The subdivision of the pound is purposely given in these fractions to accord as near as possible with the corresponding lengths in yards of the various pieces. COTTON' TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 157 goods, which are imported from Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, are purchased through foreign commission houses established in Beirut, who charge the wholesale dealers from 2J to 3 per cent, com- mission on their orders, or rather an advance equivalent to that on the foreign invoices produced. The precise arrangements between the commission houses here and the European manufacturers are, of course, not made known, and it must be left to conjecture whether the orig- inal invoices are always the ones produced by the commission mer- chants. The conditions under which cotton textiles are usually purchased are (1) either for cash, after delivery, and in this case the payment is gen- erally effected in from three to fifteen days; but if settlement is pro- longed beyond this term, interest at the rate of 5 per cent, is charged; or (2) on credit, generally against bills at three months' date, bearing interest at the rate of 5 per cent, per annum. It is not at all a rare occurrence that when the native agents of the Syrian houses in England are short of funds, they purchase their goods for cash from the Manchester manufacturers, and pay them with the proceeds of an advance upon the merchandise shipped to Syria by pledg- ing the bill of lading with a banker or with the agent of the steam-ship company carrying the goods, as security for the money advanced on the shipment. Upon the arrival of the merchandise in Syria, the merchant can withdraw the same, by liquidating the amount advanced, plus the interest accrued thereon. All purchases are subject to a discount of from 2 to 2£ per cent. The Syrian wholesale dealer allows the retail dealer usually four months* time on his purchases of gray T-cloth, gray shirtings, and bleached cloth, and six months on prints; or if the retailer buys for cash, he is entitled to a discount of 4 per cent, on the first three articles mentioned, and 6 per cent, on the last. The other cotton goods are not governed by any special rule, except that the prices quoted are always understood to mean u cash," and if time is required, interest is added from date of bill. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. The " place of manufacture and whence imported" can not be better or more graphically answered than by presenting the annexed exhibit, showing the imports from England during ten years on the one hand, and the combined imports from Austria France, Germany, and Switz- erland on the other. 158 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Imports of cotton textiles Into Beirut from Great Britain on the one hand, and Austria, France, Germany, and Switzerland on the other, during a period often years. Period. England. All other countries. Total. 1879 '80 $3,259, 776 $1, 438, 556 $4, 698, 332 1880-'81 * 3, 467, 309 1. 366, 431 4, 833, 740 1881 '82 3, 036, 048 1, 450, 299 4, 486, 347 188-> '83 3. 729, 408 756, 892 4, 486, 300 1883-'84 3, 047, 944 1, 662, 056 4. 710, 000 1884-'85 - - 4, 435, 200 514, 800 4, 950, 000 1885 '86 4, 784, 640 1, 015, 360 5, 800, 000 1886 '87 ... 3, 456, 000 547, 000 4, 003, 000 1887 '88 3, 686, 400 539, 600 4, 226, 000 1888-'89 . 3, 842, 120 637, 880 4, 480, 000 Total 36, 744, 845 9, 928, 874 46,673 719 3, 674. 484 992, 887 4, 667, 372 78.7 21.3 Comment upon the preceding table would seem superfluous ; from it, ifc is manifest that 78.7 per cent, of all the cotton textiles to which this re- port has reference are manufactured in Manchester and its district, and are imported direct from Liverpool. A small quantity of prints and miscellaneous cotton fabrics are manufactured in France and imported via Marseilles, while the largest part of the muslins, sashes, handker- chiefs, and socks are manufactured in Saxony, Germany, in Austria, and in Glaris, Switzerland ; this country supplies the Syrian market principally with handkerchiefs, keffiyehs, and mendils, or head cloths and coverings, worn mainly by the peasants ; the different sizes are 55 by 55 centimeters (21.658 inches) ; 65 by 65 centimeters (25.598 inches) ; 75 by 75 centimeters (29.528 inches) ; 85 by 85 centimeters 33.468 inches), and 95 by 95 centimeters (37.398 inches), and are sold at a price varying from 14 centimes =2.8 to 8 cents per piece. A large portion of the pocket-handkerchiefs formerly manufactured there for Syrian consumption are now also imported from England. All goods imported from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland com via Trieste. From what has been said in this report, it will appear manifest that the English (Manchester) manufacturers are very firmly intrenched in this market ; but I would here repeat what I at great length stated in my annual report of 1885-?86, namely, that if American manufacturers and merchants would not attempt the effort to successful!/ compete with markets now monopolized by Austria, England, France, or Ger- many, they would forever have to abandon every hope of finding a for- eign outlet for their numerous surplus manufactured products, for the country where these nations have not established trade relations is yet to be discovered. Like those countries, our manufacturers must enter the Syrian market by carefully studying the wants of the people, and, by offering them a superior article or some novelty or specialty, succeed in securing a share COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 159 of its trade. Persistent and intelligent efforts are certain to be ulti- mately crowned with success. The uniform import duty on all cotton goods is 8 per cent, ad valorem. ERHARD BISSINGER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Beirut, July 31, 1889. AUSTRALASIA. FIJI. REPORT BY COMMERCIAL AGENT ST. JOHN. QUALITY AND KIND. The cotton goods that are most imported and used here are of an inferior grade and poor quality, being used principally by the natives for their scanty dress (sulus). The kinds are mostly domestic prints, sheeting and shirting (gray calico), in single and double widths. WEIGHT. The weight per yard is variable according to quality, but is purchased exclusively by the yard and not by weight. HOW PURCHASED. Nearly all the merchants, I should say importers, purchase by sight draft. A few, however, purchase upon thirty, sixty, and ninety days sight draft. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. The cotton goods used here are, practically speaking, all manufact- ured at Manchester, England, and imported from London. A small quantity of American sail cloth of the Mount Yernon and Kaven's Rock brands is imported from New York. AMERICAN COTTONS IN FIJI. I will say that the importers here object to the package of American sail cloth, for the reason that it is too loosely rolled, while the English sail-cloth is more closely rolled and then subjected to heavy pressure, making the package occupy as little space as possible. The reason for the preference of the English package is, that as freights are paid for by the measured ton, the loosely rolled package occupying the more space, pays the most freight and consequently in- creases the cost to such an extent, consequent upon the long distance 1GO COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. it is shipped, as almost to keep it out of this market ; for although American cotton sail-cloth is considered much superior to that of Eng- lish manufacture, but little is imported for the reason above given. As to cotton goods generally, the merchants here, almost to a man, tell me that American cotton goods are too good for this market, and that they (the merchants) buy such goods as suit the market, and that they buy them where they can best obtain them. DUTIES. Drapery, which includes all cotton goods of all qualities and kinds, pays duty at the rate of 12 £ per cent, ad valorem, upon invoice. There- fore it is very difficult to get the exact importation of cotton goods separate from the general line of drapery. From the best information that I can obtain I would say that $250,000 would be nearly a correct estimate of the value of cotton goods imported into this colony per year. POPULATION. For the benefit of those interested I will state that the population of this colony is in round numbers 200,000, of which about 1,850 are white, the rest either native Fijian or Polynesian, and would suggest that manufacturers and shippers produce an article that suits the natives if they wish to trade in the South Sea Islands. ANDREWS A. ST. JOHN, Commercial Agent. UNITED STATES COMMERCIAL AGENCY, Fiji, August 22, 1889. NEW ZEALAND. REPORT BT CONSUL CONNOLLY, OF AUKLAND. It is impossible to obtain reliable information as to the quantity shipped from the following undermentioned countries ; the value and kind of goods alone is obtainable : WHENCE IMPORTED. Colored cotton shirtings : I American 1 $1,265 . United Kingdom 236,890 Victoria, Australia 1,225 New South Wales, Australia 520 Belgium 70 Total 239,970 Calico, white and gray, in the piece: United Kingdom 521,330 Victoria, Australia , 18,150 New South Wales, Australia 640 Total ...-.., .»—*--« 540,120 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 161 Cotton-dress prints: America 605 United Kingdom 27,260 Victoria, Australia 110 New South Wales, Australia 5 South Sea Islands 275 Total 28,255 Corduroy : United Kingdom 10,230 Moleskin : United Kingdom 78,210 Victoria, Australia 970 Total.. 79,180 Unennmerated cotton goods: America 3,655 United Kingdom 437,000 Victoria, Australia 3,100 New South Wales, Australia 1,295 France — 150 Germany 155 Total 445,355 Cotton, raw : Victoria, Australia, 1.145 pounds 200 South Sea Islands, 79,957 pounds 2,310 Total 2,510 Cotton waste: United Kingdom, 2,613 cwt 20,095 Cotton wick : United Kingdom, 23,774 pounds 9,230 Victoria, Australia, 2,284 pounds 845 Total 10,075 Grand total 1,375,790 It may be observed from the foregoing tables that the United King- dom furnished $1,340,245 worth of all cotton materials imported during the year, while the United States furnished only $5,485 worth, leaving only $30,060 to be divided among all the countries enumerated above. HOW PURCHASED. Importing firms in New Zealand have branch houses in England, or agents to whom orders for goods are forwarded substantially as follows : WINTER ORDER. Gray Mexican (cotton), 100 yards : Per yard. 26-inch width, 100 pieces at \\ d. 29-inch width, GO pieces at If d. 3^-inch width, 80 pieces at 2i d. 36-inch width, 50 pieces at 3 d. 608A 11 162 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The above is an exact copy of an order sent by this mail for goods. The agent, or whoever receives the order, proceeds at once to the whole- sale houses and leaves copies of the order, with a request that samples be sent to his address. The agent upon receiving the samples selects the best material obtainable from among the samples furnished by the various business houses, and gives his order accordingly. Payments are invariably required to be made for soft goods (in England) to the manufacturers within six months from the date of purchase. Much of the cotton goods purchased in England is paid for in New Zealand pro- duce and copra from the South Sea Islands ; the remainder is paid in cash or draft. DUTIES. The following articles pay duty or are admitted free as more fully appears by the subjoined list: Cotton counterpanes, 20 per cent. 5 costumes as apparel, 20 per cent. ; cotton braids and bindings, tailors' trimmings, free; cotton dimity, 10 per cent.; cotton piece goods, not otherwise enumerated, to include cotton prints, muslins, Attalia and Indian twills, dungaree, derries, denims, dimity, lamb skins, swan skins, and all cotton goods unmixed with other material, and unenu- merated in tariff or decisions, when in the piece as it leaves the loom, 10 per cent. Cotton, polished for lining coat sleeves, for fabrication of goods in the colony, free. Cotton rugs, 20 per cent. ; cottons, crochet, darning, knitting, and angola mending, as haberdashery, 20 per cent. ; cotton, sewing, free ; cotton shirtings, colored, in the piece, free ; cot- tons, silks, and threads, sewing, free; cotton waste, free ; cotton yarns, free ; coverings for couches and chairs, Chinese, as furniture, 25 per cent. ; table coverings in the piece, not embroidered or sewed, as textile piece goods, 20 per cent. ; covers, rick and wagon, 15 per cent. ; table and toilet, 20 per cent. 5 crapes, as drapery, not otherwise enumerated, 20 per cent. ; cravats, as apparel, 25 per cent. Crimean shirtings 25 per cent.; crinolettes, as apparel, 25 per cent.; cro- chet cottons, as haberdashery, 20 percent.; crochet, Swiss, and embroid- ered edgings of all kinds, as drapery, not otherwise enumerated, 20 per cent.; crumb-cloths, as textiles, piece goods, 20 per cent.; cuffs, cotton, paper, or other material, as apparel, 25 per cent; corduroy (cotton), in piece, free; cotton (stay-maker's binding) free; corsets, as appferel, 25 per cent. ; corset fasteners, stay- maker's binding, free. The above list of articles subject to duty, or admitted free, is taken from the customs tariff and decisions, submitted by the tariff commis- sioner, and is therefore thoroughly reliable. JOHN D. CONNOLLY, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Auckland, New Zealand, September 4, 1889. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 163 NEW SOUTH WALES. REPORT BY CONSUL GRIFFIN, OF SYDNEY. IMPORTS. The customs authorities do not publish itemized returns of the quan- tity and value of cotton textiles imported into New South Wales. All merchandise of this kind is classed under the general head of drapery. The value of drapery imported into New South Wales during the year 1888 was $13,849,562, against $10,844,231 for 1887. Of the imports for 1888 Great Britain sent goods to the value of $10,316,497, and the United States only $6,603, the remainder coming from Belgium, France, Ger- many, and other countries. The subjoined table, taken from the annual statement of trade of the United Kingdom, shows the quantity and value of cotton goods exported from the United Kingdom to New South Wales for each year from 1884 to 1888 inclusive : Years. Quantity. Value. Entered value. jg84 Yards. 29 094 900 $9 512 870 $1 576 843 1885 34 441 700 2 907 217 1 692 105 188fi 25 545 000 2 126 412 1 440 069 1887 . " . 24 654 100 1 999 133 1 171 069 1888 . 36 905 700 2 894 847 1 362 71<> In the Colony of Victoria, the population of which is about the same as that of New South Wales, the returns are made out in a different manner and show the quantity and value of cotjon goods imported into that colony to be, for 1888, $5,495,903, against $4,019,159 for 1887, and $4,682,186 for 1886. Of these, the great bulk comes from England. Of the imports of cotton piece-goods, for 1888, the value from Great Britain was $4,965,265, and of articles of cotton manufacture, $348,708. The United States only supplied $11,158. Of cotton- waste the imports into Victoria in 1888 were $57,724. Great Britain sent £9,705 worth ; New York, $875.97 worth. The imports of cotton- wick likewise were, £3,820. Great Britain furnished, $17,392, and New York only $306.58. The value of the imports of all kinds of manufactured cotton goods into the Australasian colonies is about $14.05 per head of population, and as the population of the whole of the group is about 4,000,000, this would make the total value of the imports $58,398,000. The popula- tion of New South Wales at the close of June, 1889, was estimated at little over 1,000,000, so by the same method of calculation the cotton imports would amount to $14,599,500. If the value of the goods mixed with cotton were added to these figures, the value of the imports of cottons would be fully $4,866,500 more for the colony of New South Wales. 164 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. KINDS, PRICES, ETC. Bleached cottons. — On account of the absence of classified returns of the cotton imports I have been obliged to rely upon such information as I could obtain from the principal importers of cotton textiles in Sydney and other places. The firm of Messrs. Eiley Bros, who are among the largest importers in Sydney, not only of cotton textiles, but of other merchandise, inform me that bleached cottons usually imported to this market vary in width from 20 to 36 inches. The prices in Manchester are from 2.5 cents, to 9 cents per yard. The width most desired here is 30 inches. The double bleached cottons are from 50 to 72 inches in width, and cost in England from 8 to 20 cents per yard. There is a fair demand here for cottons of the widths of 68 to 72 inches, and the price paid at the place of purchase is from 14 to 16 cents per yard. The great bulk of the trade, however, is in the narrow widths. There is always a heavy demand for soft white cottons made in imitation of what are known as American sea-side cottons. The Manchester price varies from 4 to 20 cents per yard. The most reliable widths are 36'inches. Cottons of this width, when soft and of good quality, cost 7 to 8 cents per yard in England. Horrock's long cloths, 42 yards to the piece, 36 inches in width, are very popular in this market. Printed cottons. — The styles of these goods are constantly changing. Sometimes there is a heavy demand for large-figured patterns, and at other times the smaller are most salable. The latter are at present most in fashion, and are made chiefly at Manchester and Glasgow. A heavy trade is done here in calicoes or prints for men's shirts. These are also of Manchester and Glasgow manufacture. The widths are from 27 to 33 inches. The cost in London, Manchester, or Glasgow is from 5 to 12 cents per yard. Moleskins for men's trousers: There is only a slight demand, either for white or colored. The usual width for these goods is 27 inches ; price, 16 to 36 cents. Most useful, price 26 cents per yard. They all come from Manchester. Linings, silecias. and other cotton linings come from Manchester. Large quantities of these goods are sold throughout Australasia. The prices are from 3 to 12 cents, for 32 to 42 inch widths. » Bed-ticking. — In plain stripes, blue, and fancy colors, widths 36 to 54 inches, cost from 5J to 14 cents per yard at Manchester. Bed quilts.— In heavy cour.t patterns and imitation of Marseilles, vary- ing from 60 by 70 to 90 by 120 inches, cost from 48 cents to $4.86, either in white or colors. White, however, predominates. Towels. — The bulk of these imports are in honey-comb and Turkish. The prices of the former vary from $1.46 to $2.43 per dozen. The lat- ter from 73 cents to $4.86, COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 165 AMERICAN VS. ENGLISH COTTONS. The cost of freight, exchange, and commission, and in fact all kinds of business transactions, are greater with the United States than with England and form obstacles in the way of successful introduction of American cotton manufactures into this market. One great obstacle is the absence of a permanent and direct steam communication between the cities on the Atlantic coast of the United States and the Australian ports. These difficulties may be overcome in time but the fact never- theless remains that the bulk of the trade has been monopolized by Great Britain. I have conferred very fully on the subject with Mr. E. G. Vallack, of the firm of Messrs. W. Gardiner & Co., of Sydney, who has had more experience than any other merchant in Australia with regard to Amer- ican cotton goods, and he has very kindly given me the results of his ex- perience. In regard to such articles as rubber duck, rubber drill, enameled duck, tan-back drill, tan-back moleskin, he says that all these goods are suited to the Australian market, being used for coach building and other purposes. The consumption, however, is not large and he things the total imports of these goods into STew South Wales would not exceed 300 pieces per annum. There is also a very limited demand for ticks and denims, the ordi- nary cotton tick having, in a great measure, given place to manufactures of more recent introduction, in which the widths are either 36 or 72 inches. Such goods comprise quite a large variety of woven colored stripes of different patterns. The consumption of the woven striped ticks is large and steadily increasing. All such manufactures come from England and Mr. Vallack thinks that they are not produced in America. Blue denims were, until a few years ago, comparatively unknown ; but they are now an item of almost daily demand. They are used chiefly by sailors, and Sydney seems to be the depot for the neighboring ports. Mr. Vallack states that his firm uses about 500 pieces of these goods in the year. Cotton duck, cotton drill, " Stark," or other mill, 7 to 12 ounces Army duck, " Druid " duck or canvas, and blue duck are all in fair demand in Sydney. Of these Mr. Vallack says the American market seems to sup- ply makes and weights which meet the wants of the people quite as well as any produced in England. The demand for such is a growing one. His linn imports direct from New York between 400 and 500 pieces a year. Several other Sydney firms have done exceedingly well with Ameri- can ducks, such as the Ontario, 60 inches in width, weighing 12 ounces to the yard. This article can be landed in Sydney, freight and all charges paid, at 26 cents per yard, and I am informed that there is no European article of a similar make that can at all compare with it. 1G6 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Canton or cotton-flannel, called swan-skin, gray and bleached, here and in England has a limited sale on account of the mild climate ; in fact this material is seldom used here for underclothing, but such as finds its way into the market, and especially bleached cotton-flannel, is generally of American manufacture. A few gray canton-flannels are also sold, but the demand is so small as not to be worth taking into notice. Mr. Vallack has very kindly furnished me with a list of a cer- tain class of American cottons sold here, which comprises gray calicoes, gray sheetings, bleached long-cloths, and bleached sheetings — plain and twilled. Mr. Vallack states that the demand for the goods mentioned is very considerable and says : I may be permitted to remark, especially with regard to the items enumerated in this group and more broadly with reference to American manufactured cottons gen- erally, that they can not hold their own in this market, and the consumption of the items is very large, running to thousands, perhaps tens of thousands of packages in the course of a year. I have nothing whatever to say against the make or finish ; as to finish they are perhaps superior to the English, but their cost is so high as to create no demand for them. This is the chief obstacle. For a period extending over some seven or eight years the Wamsutta company consigned very largely to this market, and I have from first to last purchased many hundreds of packages both in the open market and direct from the consignees ; of the earlier shipments, many were sold by auction and probably realized remunerative rates, but I think if reference be made to this company it will be found that their consignments resulted in a series of losses, and sometimes very heavy losses. They would not, I think, be inclined to repeat their experiment. In the event of American manufacturers being desirous of com- peting with the Manchester Mills, I shall be most happy to report upon any samples that may be submitted through you with the view of their being brought into com- petition with the products of Great Britain. With regard to white long-cloth I learn that the demand is mostly for 36-inch widths, while for sheetings it is principally for from 72 to 100 inch widths. In grays the demand is chiefly for 36 to 72 inch widths, and very few of other widths are sold in this market. . Ready made cotton goods. — Blue denim jumpers, blue denim trowsers, blue duck trowsers, and fancy cotton-made trowsers from America, occasionally find their way to this market. They meet with fair sale in the hands of those dealing in clothing for sailors. Sizing. — The beauty and purity of American cotton fabrics and their entire freedom from sizing or adulteration attract attention wherever they are seen ; but the high cost, as I have said previously, alone pre- vents them from being profitably and largely imported, the cheaper and more or less adulterated article taking their place. Various matter is used for sizing, some of which does little harm, while other kinds are washed out of the fabrics after the first laundrying. About 50 per cent, of this adulteration is sometimes used, but it would be a mistake to suppose that all Manchester goods are adulterated. Many are so slightly mixed with other substances, or the weights added to, as not to affect the quality or indeed to alter the appearance after washing. An indifferent article is not desired here any more than anywhere else, but COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 167 a fair article at a low price is demanded ; and what I have said of cot- tons is equally true of woolen goods. It is a well-known fact in Aus- tralia, that the blankets imported from New Zealand, as from the United States, are of much better quality than those placed on the market from England; but the high cost of the former kinds makes the demand for them very limited. The English blankets have neither the weight, finish, or quality of the American article, and while a great many very mean articles of this class are sold to those who demand a low priced blanket, considerable quantities, fairly good, are also sold to the working classes at remunerative prices and give very general satistaction, especially when their low price is considered. BANKING AND METHOD OF PURCHASE. The banking system with the United States is an important item to be considered with regard to the importation of American cotton goods as well as of other merchandise. There is no direct exchange with New York, the medium being by way of London. The few banks here having facilities for the sale of drafts on New York or San Francisco, payable at sight, charge from 2£ to 5 per cent., while the exchange by way of London is only J per cent. The direct transactions with New York seldom occur, and when they do they are for very small amounts, the exchange, as I have said, being conducted by way of London. The Australian merchant who has no established credit in New York has either to send a bank draft along with his order for the goods he desires to purchase, and thus loses the interest on his money, or else he is obliged to go to his banker here and arrange for a bank credit. When this is done the Australian importer orders his goods generally from a New York commission merchant, who purchases them and charges 2£ per cent, for so doing. The colonial bank in the mean time authorizes its New York agent to purchase drafts from the commission merchant on the importer in these colonies for a fixed amount at the current rate of exchange on London. The colonial bank's agent is in- structed at the same time to see that the drafts are accompanied by proper shipping documents, bills of lading, insurance policy, etc. When the bank's agent is in possession of these documents, which virtually amounts to the ownership of the goods, he purchases the American merchant's drafts and an order is given for the shipment of the goods, which may be done either direct to Australia or by way of London. The agent of the colonial bank in New York then forwards the drafts, bills of lading, etc., to the bank agent in London with instructions to write to the bank in Australia and authorize the delivery of the goods upon payment of the drafts and all other necessary expenses not in- oliuled in the draft, such as the current rate of exchange between Lon- don and Australia. 168 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. This is the usual method of purchasing and paying for the goods in the United States. If the credit of the Australian merchant is estab- lished, the goods are ordered in the same way through the commission merchant and the transaction is completed in the manner described, but the only saving to the importer is the cost of establishing a bank credit, namely, 1 per cent. Until some convenient method is pursued, the cost of business transactions will be much greater with America than with England, There are very few Australian houses who have agents in New York or other American cities for the purchasing of goods. London manufacturers have their representatives on the spot and merchandise is ordered regularly by post. The cable notifies the prices of all English merchandise, whilst American prices are seldom men- tioned. The completion of the proposed ocean cable between San Fran- cisco and Australia would remedy this evil. PRICES OF COTTONS IN SYDNEY. In this report I have not given the Sydney prices of cotton textiles, but probably from 10 to 20 per cent, above cost would be considered fair selling rates. Mr. A. J. Riley estimated the cost of bringing cotton textiles from England to Sydney at 17£ percent, by sailing vessels and 22J percent, by steamers when freights are $7.30 and $14.GO, respectively. The cost of packing in wood and zinc cases of 3-feet cube is about 2 per cent, on the value of the goods. A great many of the lower priced cotton manu- factures are packed in bales covered with canvas and tar. CUSTOMS DUTIES. There are no customs duties charged on cotton fabrics imported into New South Wales, whether of English, American, or any other manu- facture. At one time there was an ad valorem duty on such goods, but it has been repealed. G. W. GRIFFIN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Sydney, September 28, 1889 CONTINENT OF EUROPE. AUSTRIA-HUNGARY. TRIESTE. REPORT BY CONSUL GILBERT. Agreeable to instructions contained in circular dated May 27, 1889, relating to cotton textiles imported into this consular district, I have the honor to inclose a communication received from the chamber of commerce of this city in reply to my letter requesting the statistics covering the points stated in the mentioned circular of the Department, and such other statistics as are obtainable on the subject. The follow- ing is a translation of the letter of the chamber of commerce addressed to this consulate : No. 1764. To the "honorable consulate of the United States in Trieste: We can only respond to your letter of the 17th instant with the following statis- tics, which we have the honor to inclose herein. Upon the weight per yard, which varies according to the quality of the goods, we can furnish no information. It is the same with regard to the place of manufacture and the way in which the goods are purchased. At Trieste no import duty is paid. For importation into the monarchy we refer you to the various customs tariffs- general, with the modifications according to international treaties. Trieste, 24 July, 1889. Direction of the Bourse. F. DIMMER, Vice-President. It is to bo noted that Trieste being a free port all statistics are ap- proximate only. Imports and exports, by sea and land, into and from the port of Trieste, for the year 1888. Imports. Exports. Imports. Exporta. BAW COTTON. By sea: East India Metric quintals. 437, 153 Metric quintal*. RAW COTTON— continued. By sea: Austro-Hungarian ports . Metric quintals. 19 Metric quintalr. 315 Firvnt 109 643 6 18 Italy 30 149 69 620 Malta 13 16 764 272 Russia 1 United States 5 451 Montenegro 25 3 558 738 Tripoli 4 *461 Tunis 4 °59 205 Belgium 234 Total 603, 723 71, 189 1 69 170 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Imports and exports, l)y sea and land, into and from the port of Trieste, etc. — Continued. Imports. Exports. Imports. Exports. EAW COTTON— continued. By land : Austria Metric quintals. 2 070 Metric quintals. 346 098 COTTON MANUFACTURES— con- tinued. By land : Metric quintals. 35 408 Metric quintals. 1 116 Italy - - . 245 2 341 Switzerland 8 132 17 Hungary -- 2 7,722 Germany 4 886 25 111 220 Italy 65 145 Switzerland 50, 572 Hungary 34 234 105 France 1 Bosnia and Herzegowina 24 Bosnia and Herzegowina 614 Servia 8 Servia 261 Total 2 317 518 090 Total 48 526 2 412 COTTON MANUFACTURES. By sea: Great Britain 92 4 COTTON YARNS. By sea : Italy 100 34 Malta 88 75 Austro-Hungarian ports 8 Italy 68 2 037 (5 Turkey 49 4,904 Malta 1 6 Austro-Hungarian ports . 23 2,568 Turkey 1 534 Greece . .7. 23 1,441 Tripoli 232 Netherlands g East India 55 Bulgaria 5 144 Greece 30 Egypt 1 1 118 Tunis 21 India 8 151 n United States 262 Ilouiuiiniji 6 Zanzibar ..... 210 4 Rournania 244 Great Britain 3 Montenegro 62 China 55 Total 116 1 942 Tunis 38 Mozambique . 34 By land • Brazil 29 6 848 5 196 Massana . 27 Germany 703 Aden 7 itaiy . .:: :: 52 3 Russia 4 Switzerland 31 Australia 4 .France 3 Spain. 3 345 Tripoli 3 Hungary " °42 Japan 3 115 Koninania 1 Total 357 21 427 Total 7 637 5 902 HENRY W. GILBERT, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Trieste, July 25, 1889. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 171 DENMARK. REPORT BY CONSUL RYDER, OF COPEN&AQEN. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of circular instruction dated May 27 last, requesting me to report on the cotton textiles im- ported into my consular district, namely, (1) quantity and kind imported per annum, (2) weight per yard, (3) how purchased, (4) place of manu- facture and whence imported, (5) duties charged thereon, and beg here- with to transmit subjoined a table with explanations covering as near as possible all the points in question, viz: Imports into the consular district of Copenhagen, 1887. [Quantities in half kilograms.] Duty per i kilo- gram. Total, 1887. Nor- way. Swe- den. England. Ger- many. Prance Bel- gium. Hol- land. United States. Other coun- tries. No. 1. 3.4 109, 259 538 2,417 72, 632 24,088 7 768 1 816 No. 2. No. 3 No. 4. No. 5. No. 6. 2.7 18 13.5 11.3 6.8 225, 461 581,526 243, 953 789, 367 2498,748 120 170 1C3 328 425 257 1,364 9,744 19,182 28, 219 121,262 297. 747 10«, 357 468,540 1, 970, 546 87, 175 263, 697 112, 443 261, 740 357, 723 560 68 2,823 291 141 144 2,474 4,716 4, 323 86,591 43 889 8 177 1,244 13 9 58 22, 097 15, 904 15, 104 7,6!M) 34,728 31,762 DESCRIPTION. No. 1. — Cotton canvas above 16 ounces the square yard equal to 7.22 inches American canvas. Bleached linen canvas of the same weight and color and uncolored carpets of hemp, linen, and jute, or parts thereof. The cotton canvas is imported from the United States and the other goods from England. No. 2. — White goods, such as bobbinets, curtains, mulls, and similar goods, are imported from Germany and England, and weigh about 4J ounces to the square yard. Xo. 3. — Printed goods, velvets, and hosiery. The printed goods are nearly all the usual cotton prints from 30 to 32 inches in width, weigh- ing 2J ounces per yard. Prints are not manufactured in Denmark. The bulk of this import is from England ; some of the better class of goods from Germany. Hosiery is mostly imported from Germany, the import of this article has declined on account of home production. Velvets are nearly all imported from England. No. 4. — Woven colored goods containing more than one color. These goods are nearly all imported from England and Germany, are from 27 to 30 inches in width, and weigh from 2 to 2J ounces per yard. The duty being comparatively high and manufacturing easy, a large home production in fast-colored goods has sprung up, preventing a larger import. 172 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. No. 5. — Colored goods of one color, either dyed or printed, white goods, woven in a pattern, such as damasks, etc. The dyed goods are nearly all cotton twills for lining purposes, 30 to 36 inches in width, weighing about 3 ounces per yard, and are imported from England and Germany. No. 0. — Bleached, unbleached, and twilled cotton goods. The im- port of unbleached cotton goods has decreased very much, the home production being preferred on accounf of its good and solid quality The imported goods are partly unbleached twills, 38 inches in width, weighing 3 ounces per yard, and some heavier qualities for dying pur- poses, such as unbleached domestics, twills, and drillings of narrow width, 24 to 30 inches wide, weighing from 2 to 6 ounces per yard. These goods are imported from England. The 22,097 pounds imported under this head from the United States of America are probably un- bleached cotton ducks and canvas of lighter make than 16 ounces per square yard. The bulk of the white cotton goods is bleached domestic, 27 to 32 inches wide, weighing from 3 to 4 ounces per yard ; bleached shirtings, 30 to 36 inches wide, weighing about 2 ounces per yard ; also, bleached cotton sheetings, 50 to 60 inches in width and from 6 to S ounces in weight per yard. These goods are imported from England and partly from Germany. It may be observed that the Copenhagen custom house does not make any special note in the entry of cotton or linen goods. The duty on both being paid according to weight, it is therefore impossible to arrive at a correct statement as to how much under Kos. 1 to 5 in the foregoing statement is cotton or linen. The purchases are made for cash — that is to say, from three to thirty days. Still, the usual terms are a credit of ninety days, with or with- out bill of acceptance, and in many instances, more especially amongst the small retail dealers in the provincial towns, by an extension of credit to six months. HENRY B. RYDER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Copenhagen, August 11, 1889. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 173 BELGIUM. ANTWERP. REPORT ST CONSUL STEWART The manufacture of cotton goods is a very extensive and important industry in the Kingdom of 13elgium, but the province of Antwerp has no direct part therein, this city acting simply as the transit depot for the receipt and delivery of the raw material and the product therefrom. A large quantity of raw cotton is brought into this port, coming from India, the United States, and England, to be forwarded to its destina- tion, the greater part going to a market, such as Ghent (every Friday being special cotton day there), to be sold and distributed among the factories of the kingdom, and the rest into the neighboring countries. The quantity of the manufactured article passing through here is also very large, both in transit from one foreign country to another and also from home manufacturers for export, and for the large home deal- ers established in the interior. In this city there are no importers or dealers of any consequence ; Brussels being so near and so accessible interferes greatly with the retail trade of this city ; most persons having orders to give or purchases to make go to Brussels, where they claim to find more taste and skill, more extensive assortments and lower prices, hence the large merchants are to be found there. For our products Antwerp offers one of the most desirable and im- portant markets on the continent, but for our industries there is not much scope or encouragement. The cotton factories are located principally in Ghent, and nearly all are in the Province of Flanders; their product is protected by a high tariff duty, which cripples foreign competition and makes the importa- tion of manufactures of cotton very trifling, whilst the exports are very large. There is a very extensive bleaching and dyeing establishment located near Antwerp. The proprietor informs me that he receives a great deal of material from abroad to be operated upon, and that, when finished, he returns or forwards it to its destination without any interference on the part of the customs authorities. Cotton fabrics are purchased by the merchants here from the repre- sentatives of the manufacturers or the large wholesale merchants, from samples exhibited by them, the usual credit being three months, or cash in fifteen days, with from 2 to 3 per cent, discount, as already stated. Quantities and kinds imported. — The official statistics not giving the dif- ferent kinds of cotton goods imported into Antwerp, and not being able to get them at this custom-house, I applied to the bureau of finance in Brussels, and in response have received the statistics giving the de- sired information, as shown in Table A, subjoined to this report. 174 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES, Weight. — I have no means of ascertaining the weight per yard of the many different kinds. How purchased. — The usual conditions are three months' credit, or cash in fifteen days with 2 to 3 per cent, discount. Place of manufacture. — An answer to this is found in Table A, here- with. Duties. — Table B, herewith inclosed, gives a copy of the Belgian cus- toms tariff on cotton tissues. A. — Quantities of cotton tissues imported into Anticerp during the years 1887 and 1888. [As furnished by the Bureau of Finance in Brussels.] Articles and whence imported. 1887. 1888. Articles and whence imported. 1887. 1888. "Unbleached: Brazil Kilograms. Kilograms. 31 Dyed— Continued. Kilograms. 4 834 Kilogram.* 4 524 138 55 Germany 198 Gibraltar 2 496 Great Britain 7 532 5 820 Great Britain 17 448 16 313 34 5 ' 1ft Holland 169 401 Holland 814 921 Spain 39 India (British) 15 United States 28 10 Italy 20 1 00,1 Total 7,934 6,549 United States 39 Bleached: Total ... . 37 683 38 348 Australia 595 Gibraltar 122 Printed • Germany 3,271 6,287 France 153 287 Germany (Bremen) . 36 Germany 5 364 3 094 Great Britain 11, 387 9,794 *895 France ............... 7,186 4 296 Great Britain 6 862 5 988 Holland 1 847 1 150 Holland 248 377 India (British) 48 Russia .... 502 Italy 2 Turkey 15 Switzerland 101 93 United States 5 United States 27 54 Total 14 024 9 766 Total 24 025 22 271 00 (•,•(• Dyed: Africa (Congo) 26 countries. 1 One kilogram equals 2.204.621 pounds avoirdupois. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 175 B. — Amount of duties imposed upon cotton tissues, plain, twilled, and ticking. [Extract from the Belgian customs tariff.] Kind. Thread per square cen- timeter. Basis. Duty. Unbleached : First-class, weighing 11 kilograms and more per 100 square meters 35 threads and less 100 kilograms Francs. 50 00 Do 36 threads and more do 72 00 Second-class, weighing from 7 to 11 kilo- grams exclusive per 100 square meters 35 threads and less do 60 00 Do 36 threads to 43 do . 100 00 Do 44 threads and more do 180 00 Third-class, weighing from 3 to 7 kilo- 27 threads and less do 80 00 Do ' 28 threads to 35 . do 120 00 Do 36 threads to 43 ...do.... 190 00 Do 44 threads and more . do 300 00 Bleached: First-class, weighing 11 kilograms and more per 100 square meters. .... 35 threads and less ...do 57 50 Do do 82 80 Second-class, weighing from 7 to 11 kilo- grams exclusive per 100 square meters. 35 threads and less ...do . 69 00 Do 36 threads to 43 do 116 00 Do . 44 threads and more . do 207 00 Third-class, weighing from 3 to 7 kilo- grams exclusive per 100 square meters 27 threads and less do g-> oo Do 28 threads to 35 ...do . 138 00 Do 36 threads to 43 do 218 50 Do 44 threads and more . do .. 345 00 Dyed: First-class, weighing 11 kilograms and 35 threads and less ...do... 75 00 ' Do 36 threads and more do 97 00 Second-class, weighing from 7 to 11 kilo- 35 threads and less do 85 00 Do 36 threads to 43 do 125 00 Do do 205 00 Third-class, weighing from 3 to 7 kilo- grams exclusive per 100 square meters.. 27 threads and less do 105 00 Do 28 threads to 35 do 145 00 Do . 36 threads to 43 do 215 00 Do 44 threads and more ..do 325 00 Printed Velvets : Imitation silk : 100 kilograms . 85 00 do 110 00 All others : Unbleached ..do... 60 00 do 85 00 Twilled, dimity, "faconn6s," damaskeened, and " brillantes, " weighing 3 kilograms and more per 100 square meters Ad valorem 15 per ct. Lace hand-made and spindle-made ..... ..... Free. All other cotton tissues, not specially enum- erated, as also mixed tissues where cotton Ad valorem 10 per ct One square centimeter equals .39 inch square; 1 square meter equals 1:093.621 square yards, equal- ing 3.280.867 square feet ; 1 kilogram equals 2.204.621 pounds avoirdupois ; 1 franc equals 19.3 cents. 176 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. FRANCE. HAVRE. REPORT BY CONSUL VUFAIS. The official figures of the importations for the year 1888 are not yet published, but by the courtesy of the collector of the port I am enabled to send you herewith a full list* of last year's importations of cotton articles, such as cloths, calicoes, tickings, embroidered goods, curtains, laces, etc., in kilograms (of 2.20 pounds), specifying the countries from which imported, the flag under which they came, those in transit for the interior under the head of general commerce, etc., those for local con- sumption under that of special commerce, and duties collected here on the latter. The total importations into Havre sum up as follows for — Year. Quantities. Value. 1888 Pounds. 11 496 000 Francs. (*) 1887 - .... 9 604, 000 12 120 000 1886 8 696 000 11 366,000 1885 6 640 000 8 972 000 1884 7 328 000 9 341 000 1883 6 942 000 9 044 000 1882 . 7 105 000 8 045 000 1881 6 050 000 7 285 000 1880 5 016 000 4 541 000 *H"ot yet made up. The importations for local consumption are so insignificant, all for re- tail stores, that I have found it impossible to get at the weight of cot- ton cloth per yard. F. F. DUFAIS, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Havre, France, July 31, 1889. MARSEILLES. REPORT BY OONSUL MASON. IMPORTS. The trade in cotton manufactures at Marseilles is relatively unimpor- tant, being principally confined to landing the goods from vessel or railway and re-shipping them to the remote countries which are reached by the extensive system of steam-ship lines which lias its focus at this port. Taking, as an example, the commerce of 1888, we find that of 5,560,289 kilos of cotton textiles imported here by sea and rail, only 122,960 kilos, or one forty-fifth part of the whole amount, was entered for local consumption, while 5,437,329 kilos were reshipped abroad. The same proportion exists in the imports of preceding years, as the following table will show : * Table not in shape for publication. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 177 Year. General commerce. Entered for consumption. Amount of duty paid. Kilograms. 4, 347, 424 Kilograms. 302,665 Kilograms. 100, 074 4, 717, 647 214. 882 171, 636 5, 438, 804 117, '290 103, 355 5, 045, 855 66,991 58,658 6, 018, 364 102, 899 100, 229 Southern France has no cotton manufactures of any consequence, and receives its supplies of muslins, sheetings, calicoes, etc., from the great mills of Koubaix, Roueii, Tourcoing, and other manufacturing centers in the North. The protection which these industries enjoy under the present tariff laws, and the rebates or discriminations which are secured to cotton textile imports coming from certain nations, which have spe- cial treaties of commerce with France, viz, Great Britain, Belgium, Switzerland, Spain, Austria,, Portugal, Sweden, Norway, Turkey, and finally Germany, by virtue of the treaty of Frankfort, are indicated by the following tables, per 600 kilograms : Description. General tariff. Treaty rates. Cotton cloths not bleached, dyed, or printed : Weighing 11 kilograms or more per 100 square meters (20. 27 per 100 yards square : Not exceeding 30 threads to 5 square millimeters .. Over 30 tlm-ads . Weighing from 7 to 11 kilograms: Xot exceeding 35 threads From 36 threads to 43 From 44 threads upwards Weighing from 5 to 7 kilograms: Not exceeding 27 threads From 28 threads to 35 From 3(3 threads to 43 From 44 threads up wards Weighing from 3 to 5 kilograms : Not exceeding 20 threads Xot exceeding 27 threads From 28 threads to 35 From 36 threads to 43 From 44 threads upwards Weighing less than 3 kilograms per 100 square meters: Bleached, an additional duty of Dyed in Aradrinople red, an additional duty of Dyed in any other color, an additional duty of Printed (linings), an additional duty of Printed in one or two colors, an additional duty of Printed in 3 to 6 colors, an additional duty of Printed in 7 or more colors, an addkional duty of Francs. 62 100 95 125 250 100 145 235 300 | 230 300 410 625 15 percent. 60 30 2.50 3.75 6.25 10 Francs. 100 180 117 190 242 110 148 193 270 403 15 per cent. 25 2 4 7.50 In the long list of duties assessed upon other fabrics, which range from 8 francs per 100 kilograms for oil-cloth to 1,000 francs per 100 kilograms for cotton gloves, it will be sufficient to mention only those which are imported to any extent: Description. 'General tariff Treaty rates. Francs. 68 Francs. 55 Tulle 496 400 Tulle when exceeding 7 meshes to the square centimeter ..... ....... 700 562 Muslin . .... 360 180 300 140 Muslin curtains weiQ 85, 463 28, 808 Kilos. 94, 092 25, 835 2, 185, 713 59, 382 2,091 495 740 417 125 2,220 Kilos. 13, 876 23, 347 7,250 Kilos. 24, 275 2, 059, 987 435, 522 461 3,783 1,701 54,777 25, 890 9,580 6,201 Kilos. 2,729 218 19, 156 Kilos. 2, 293 3, 631 2, 579 11 4 1, 382 284 4,987 38 40, 078 Kilos. 210, 865 2, 261, 320 2,721,617 63, 204 7,110 11, 774 61, 372 40, 183 70, 614 112, 230 Printed 32. 220 Upholstery goods . . . Muslins, embroid- ered, brocaded . . . 1,136 6, 272 712 5,721 4.263 2, 305 176, 369 96 17 4,649 125 23 56, 285 Velveteens 690 43 340 54, 861 3,719 162, 073 1,217 167 2,605 25 742 Embroidered goods. . Knit. "'Gods 598 1,699 620 41,246 Mixed goods ........ All other Total 2, 371, 110 49, 229 2, 621, 677 83,298 55, 287 5, 560, 289 Cotton fabrics entered for consumption at Marseilles during the. year 1888. Description of goods. "5 Belgium. o' C3 O 0 *sS H Switzerland. a H Other coun- tries. 3 "o H Cloth and dress goods weighing 11 kilograms or more per 100 square meters: Kilos. Kilos. Kilos. Kilos. 203 Kilos. 10 Kilos. Kilos. 7 Kilos. 97 Kilos. 317 Bleached . 3 849 851 10 15 175 1,903 Dyed 2 15 7 661 56 90 7 824 Printed 1 205 267 11 51 1,534 From 7 to 11 kilograms: 32 4 3 39 Bleached 9 8 6 1 3 27 2 534 214 3 6 2 757 Printed 562 ooo 28, 925 7 2 29, 879 Cloth and dress goods weighing per 100 >quare meters: From 5 to 7 kilograms : Bleached 9°3 8 1 i 3 935 Dyed 1 • 544 36 5H1 Printed 2 6 8 From 3 to 5 kilograms: Bleached 469 5 474 Dyed 10 10 Free of duty, weight per yard not recorded ...... 4 439 4,439 Upholsterv goods 2,903 56, 835 i 10 59, 749 M us] inn embroidered or brocaded 652 96 4 757 Velveteens 23 5 i 1,075 17 1 1,122 Embroidered goods 43 G 414 183 299 945 Gimps. 7 23 2,434 2,464 Knit goods 598 527 2 18 244 4 1, 393 Mixed goods 1 699 23 10 1, 732 All other 620 30 371 357 26 1,083 94 1,490 4,071 Total 7 356 4 itji 941 63 052 1,325 40, 881 2,940 2,284 122, 960 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 179 It follows from what has been already stated, and the very small proportion of cotton textiles passing through Marseilles which are en- tered for consumption, that the importation of such goods in the ordi- nary commercial sense is not of sufficient volume and importance to form the basis of any general analysis or deductions. No statistics exist from which the amount or value of cotton goods brought here for consumption from other parts of France can be approximately derived. The prices and methods of purchase which apply to the trifling imports for consumption from England, Belgium, and Switzerland are those which ordinarily rule in the markets of those countries. HOW PURCHASED. Purchases are either for cash or thirty days7 payment, but the Swiss and German manufacturers send some goods on consignment, paying a commission on sales. There are no brokers in this line of trade at Marseilles, and all transactions are direct between the purchaser and the manufacturer or his agent. Hence each transaction is made upon special and often varying terms, and there are no general rules by which the trade — relatively unimportant in itself — is uniformly governed. FRANK H. MASON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Marseilles, July 10, 1889. GERMANY. HAMBURG. REPORT BY CONSUL LANG. COTTON TEXTILES. Kind imported. — The statistics obtainable by this consulate do not show the different kinds of cotton textiles imported into Hamburg, but from reliable information, obtained from experts in this line, it is safe to say that every kind manufactured iincls its way into this port. The quantity imported per annum for the years 1885, 1886, and 1887 (the statistics for 1888 have not yet been completed) was 31,230,815 pounds, 32,862,000 pounds, and 36,650,020 pounds, respectively. Weights. — The weight per yard can not be furnished, as the goods are weighed in bulk and not by measure. Besides, no statistics exist regarding the measurement. How purchased. — This is a very difficult question to answer. Most of the cotton textiles arriving in Hamburg are in transit and are almost immediately shipped from here to foreign ports. The firms handling 180 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. these wares are, with few exceptions, forwarding agents who receive the goods from the interior and know nothing about the mode of pur- chase. Even the small percentage of the goods which actually remains in this district is purchased in a hundred different ways and mostly in comparatively small lots. Place of manufacture. — By far the greater part of the German cotton textiles are manufactured in Saxony. The following two tables, com- prising the years 1885, 1886, and 1887 will show from where the goods are imported, the respective quantities and values. Duties. — As the most simple and at the same time most reliable man- ner of replying to this question, I give below a translation of a part of the JSTew Imperial German Tariff. (Duties assessed per 100 kilograms): Cotton and cotton goods : Cotton, raw, combed, dyed free Marks. Cotton batting. 1.50 Cotton thread, unmixed, or mixed with linen, silk, wool, or other vegetable or animal spinning stuffs : Single cord, raw — Up to No. 17 English 12 Over No. 17 to No. 45 English 18 Over No. 45 to No. 60 English 24 Over No. 60 to No. 79 English 30 Over No. 79 English 36 Double cord, raw : Up to No. 17 English 15 Over No. 17 to No. 45 English 21 Over No. 45 to No. 60 English, 27 Over No. 60 to No. 79 English 33 Over No 79 English 39 Single and double cord, bleached or dyed : Up to No. 17 English 24 Over No. 17 to No. 45 English 30 Over No. 45 to No. 60 English 36 Over No. 60 to No. 79 English 42 Over No. 79 English 48 Triple cord or more, twisted once or more, raw, bleached, dyed 48 Double cord, repeatedly twisted, raw, bleached, dyed, also cut cotton thread, manufactured for retail sale of every description 70 Wicks, unwoven 24 Cotton textiles without and in connection with metal threads, without admixture of silk, wool or other animal hair : Raw, (manufactured from raw yarn) solid textiles with exception of cut velvets, tulle, ra'-v without designs 80 Bleached solid textiles, also finished, with exception of uncut velvets .. 100 All solid textiles not included in Nos. 1, 2 and 6, raw (manufactured from raw yarn), loose textiles with exception of curtainings, as far as not classed under No. 1 ; hosiery, upholsters' and button-makers' wares, also textiles in connection witli metal threads 120 Cuvtainiiigs, bleached and finished 230 All loose textiles, as jaconet, muslin, tulle, marly, gauze, as far as not classed under Nos, 1,3, and 4 200 Laces and all embroideries .. . 350 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 181 Cotton and cotton goods — Continued. Cotton tishin«r nets, new 3 Packing and scrubbing cloth 10 Emery cloth 6 WM. W. LANG, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Hamburg, July 8, 1889. Quantities and whence imported into Hamburg during 1885, 1886, and 1887. * 1887. IK J6. 188 5. Whence imported. Quantities. «j 1 Average value per 100 kilos, or 220 pounds. Quantities. > Quantities. Pounds. 998, 460 $258, 846 $58 Pounds. 872, 140 $193, 977 Pounds. 912, 043 $204, 209 Chili 6 380 928 32 12 31 614 440 114 4 409 1 245 2,425 747 Great Britain ....... 11, 733, 920 4, 528, 088 85 11, 349, 942 4, 320, 185 12, 406, 838 5, 224, 214 768 680 113, 281 32 714 731 89, 925 654, 766 88, 089 76, 120 34, 184 99 43, 430 23, 136 52 249 27, 729 Netherlands ............... 27,280 10, 829 87 29, 762 8,860 26,014 9,082 16 280 5 907 80 663 219 5,720 2,453 94 9,480 4,370 3,968 2,033 Italy 3 740 1,552 91 6,834 3 495 2,646 1,257 Bremen and Weser 4,620 1,468 70 441 248 5,372 1,801 I^orway ................. 880 386 1,764 1,097 2,646 1,169 88,184 28,298 Via Altona 128, 480 47, 110 81 101, 632 41, 117 111, 332 46, 631 Berlin-Hamburg railroad Venlo-Hamburg railroad 12, 283, 480 8, 213, 920 1 232 220 6, 202, 463 3, 593, 060 612 060 93 96 109 9, 949, 800 7,514,159 982 380 4, 680, 944 3, 213, 226 484 097 8, 304, 287 6, 743, 431 818, 568 4, 177, 045 3, 39(5, 381 469 215 By post 299, 420 267, 410 196 304, 235 292, 007 360, 231 351, 574 Altoua-Kiel railroad 477, 400 171, 431 79 626, 988 226, 976 511, 688 200, 774 "Upper Elbe 343 200 117 803 75 306 880 98 076 178, 352 40,948 Liibeck- Hamburg railroad .. Various directions 38, 060 1,320 14, 275 697 83 116 39, 462 1,100 16, 001 988 45, 635 1,704 22,115 1,411 Total ~. 36 650 020 14 984 345 90 32 86° 669 13 702 967 31, 230, 815 14,294 589 STETTIN. REPORT BY CONSUL FAT. In reply to your circular dated May 27, 1889, I have the honor to offer the following relative to the instructions therein named. The imports of cotton textiles at Stettin, during the year 1888, amounted to — Tons. Coarse cottons of thick textiles 4.0 Bleached cottons . 1.1 Colored cottons 6.2 Cotton yarns 679.0 It will be observed that the principal imports were cotton yarns, and for the most part of the cheaper kinds, used by the peasants for spin ning purposes. 182 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. WEIGHT PER YARD. I find it quite difficult to correctly aud satisfactorily answer this in- terrogatory, for the reason pieces of cotton goods of the same quality but of different factories seldom have the same weight. I have secured five samples of the principal kinds imported, which I beg to herewith inclose. The weight of these pieces per yard is, viz : Grams. Sample 1 • 99 Sample 2 64 Sample 3 104 Sample 4 - - f 87 Sample 5 60 HOW PURCHASED. The usual time given to jobbers is, 30 days with a discount of 2 per cent., or 90 days net. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. All cotton textiles imported at this port during the year 1888 came from England, Belgium, and Holland, namely : England : Tons. Cotton goods - - 2.1 Cotton yarns 675.7 Belgium: Cotton goods 2.4 Holland : Cotton goods...... 3.2 Cotton yarns 3.3 (One ton = 2,200 pounds.) DUTIES CHARGED. The duties on cotton textiles per 100 kilograms are as follows : Coarse cottons $19.04 Bleached cottons 23.80 Colored cottons. 28.56 Cotton velvets 28.56 Coarse yarns, single thread : Nos.lOtol7 2.856 Nos. 17 to 45 4.284 Nos.45to60 5.712 Nos. 60 to 79 7.14 Nos. 79 and above 8.568 Three marks additional duty is levied on double thread yarns. Bleached and colored yarns : Nos. 10 to 17 $5.712 Nos. 17 to 45 7.14 Nos. 45 to 60 8.568 Nos. 60 to 97 9.996 Nos. 97 aud above 11.42 One kilogram = 2.205 pounds. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 183 PRICES. The present cost prices of the inclosed samples, that is, what the job- ber pays the manufacturer, are as follows : Per meter. Sample 1 $0.088 Sample 2 0785 Sampled 119 .0856 Sample 4 138 Samples One meter = 1.09363 yards. The larger portion of cotton textiles used in Germany are manufact- ured in Alsace ami Lorraine. ANDREW F. FAY, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Stettin, July 10, 1889. HOLLAND. REPORT BY CONSVL ECKSTEIN, OF AMSTERDAM. The custom -house records and returns and the statistics published by the department of finance do not state the quantity of cotton textiles imported, but they do show their value. The reason for this, as explained to me, is that the duty upon manu- factures of cotton is payable and assessed upon their value. VALUE OF IMPORTS. The following statement shows the value (in florins) of manufact- ures of cotton into Holland during the years 1886, 1887, and 1888, and the countries whence imported, viz : Articles and whence imported. 1886. 1887. 1888. Manufactures of cotton, unbleached or bleached : Africa: East coast Florins. 9 Florins. Florins. AVest cooft 20 Belgium 361 797 410, 485 446 184 Denmark France 10 350 Great Britain 1 782,804 2 251 995 2 297 436 Dutch Guiana Hamburc 25 259 556 Java 297 111 173 Prussia 285,554 230, 137 232, 305 United States 70 Sweden 4,000 Total 2, 434 496 2 893 057 2, 977, 024 Imported at Amsterdam 749, 073 796, 261 750, 671 • -;••• -__^.:=j 184 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Articles and whence imported. • 1886. 1887. 1888. Manufactures of cotton, colored or printed : Florins. Florins. 8 Florins. 30 Belgium ... 511 407 483 616 r>06 427 Denmark .... 120 France - 964 Great Britain 2 889 GOfc 2 887 326 2 775 483 Dutch Guiana 70 18 Hnmburg 445 60 45 Java ** 110 1 015 579 2 08G 823 9 163 173 2 218 074 United States r)0 18 Sweden .. 26 220 Total 5 481 797 5 535 234 5 500 978 Imported at Amsterdam 1 440 088 1 431 040 1 331 054 Manufactures of cotton, laces, etc. : .Belgium .. 119 647 67 958 56 201 Great Britain 174 832 163 296 151 648 Hamburg 666 Prussia* 36 907 38 935 31 998 Total 331 386 270 189 940 513 Imported at Amsterdam 69 147 71 382 70 265 From the above statement an inference may or must be drawn as to what has been the quantity of the imports during the years which it covers. It appears as if the local manufacturers of cotton textiles were con- stantly making increased efforts to supply as far as possible the domes- tic demand and consumption, and with tolerably fair success. It would therefore be safe to assume that the markets of this country are not likely to require increased supplies of cotton goods from abroad whilst present conditions continue to prevail. The sum total of the imports for an entire year as stated above may seem rather small, nor do I think that it really represents the full value of all cotton goods imported. WEIGHT PER YARD. My efforts to obtain information upon this point were entirely unsuc- cessful. In official quarters nothing whatever is known or on record touching the matter, and the principal dealers and importers of manufactures of cotton goods assure me that they can not and that no one here can give an intelligent or reliable answer upon this point. They say that the sorts or classes of goods imported differ so very much, each from the other, as to make it impossible to indicate or de- scribe their correct weight per yard or meter. HOW PURCHASED. When not otherwise specially agreed upon, cotton goods are gener- ally purchased by the importers for cash, which is held to be equivalent to one month's time, with 1J per cent, discount. It is, however, optional on the part of the buyer who is regarded to be of good reputation mid COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 18£ standing, to avail himself of the privilege of the longer credit, which is frequently extended and consists of four months. Cotton textiles are generally bought of commission bouses or mer- chants who send their travelers with sample collections. Large buyers often go into the market or send on their orders. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. The particular places where the goods are manufactured in the dif- ferent foreign countries and imported into Holland have not been pointed out to me, although I endeavored to procure the information as to whence the same are produced. I have been able to ascertain only that the bulk of the imports from England are turned out at Manchester and Glasgow. Some of the better qualities of printed goods imported from Germany are made at different places in Alsace and in Baden. At certain places in Belgium and in Switzerland are manufactured some of the articles which enter this country for consumption. As to whence cotton goods are imported into Holland I would refer to the previous tabular statement in answer to the first point. DUTIES CHARGED. All manufactures of cotton as well as those of part wool and cotton are dutiable at the rate of 5 per cent, ad valorem. Exempt from duty are raw and unbleached cottons which are in- tended for the domestic print-works, and also sail-cloth for ship's use. Cotton yarns are admitted free of duty; woolen yarns more than double twisted (tweedraads) pay 3 per cent, on their value. D. ECKSTEIN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Amsterdam, September 6, 1889. ITALY. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL BOURN'. In response to your circular of May 27*, 1889, requesting reports upon cotton textiles imported into this district, I have the honor to re- port as follows, and to submit the accompanying tables taken from offi- cial and other sources. Statistics pertaining to importations into the entire consular district are not accessible, as distinct from importations into the entire kingdom. I have therefore collected the importations into the Provinces of Rome-Cagliari and Sassari, which constitute, how- ever, only a part of this consular district, to which I have added the statistics for the kingdom. Italy has no complete official statements of cotton industries, but ac- cording to an unofficial report there are about 047 cotton factories with 186 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. about 800,000 spindles, using about 30,000 tons of raw cotton per year. In these factories there are about 13.517 power and 14,300 hand looms, besides about 42,000 hand-looms in rural residences scattered through- out the country, making a total of about 70,000 looms. The cotton in- dustry is said to employ 70,000 persons. The yarn or thread manufactured in Italy is generally of the highest numbers. About 8,000,000 pounds were imported in 1889, chiefly from Great Britain, Switzerland, and Germany. The production of woven goods is valued at about $32,800,000 per year, being insufficient for home consumption. The imports of the usual cotton tissues for 1889 were about 20,000,000 pounds. Linen goods are used in Italy very much more extensively than in the United States, which accounts for the comparatively limited con- sumption of cotton textiles. Various attempts have been made to introduce cotton goods from the United States into Italy with greater or less success. So far as I have been able to learn our fabrics have given great satisfaction. The busi- ness of the last person who undertook in this city the importation from the United States was broken up by his death, and no one seems to have taken it up. Were serious attempts to be made to introduce our cotton textiles into this country no doubt larger sales could be effected. But it mast not be forgotten that the channels of trade have been for a long time established, and that it will not be an easy task to establish new ones. The English, German, and Swiss manufacturers would no doubt be unwilling to surrender any portion of their trade Vithout an effort to retain it. But the present unsettled condition of trade would seem to offer an unusually favorable opportunity for our manufacturers to make the attempt. Cotton goods are generally sold by agents or travelers sent out by the manufacturers. For our manufacturers to successfully introduce their goods they must employ the proper means, and have trustworthy agents on the spot, or skillful travelers who understand the customs of the trade and the Italian language. They must also ascertain the wants of the people as to styles, widths, weights, and packages. Large quanti- ties of calicoes are used here, but the designs that would suit the American trade would not'be acceptable in every part of Italy. I will append to this tables showing : (1) The imports of cotton, threads, warps, and tissues, into the Province of Rome for 1886 and 1887. (2) The same for the Province of Cagliari, Sardinia, for 1888. (3) The same for the Province of Sassari, Sardinia, for 1888. (4) Cotton tissues imported into Italy in 1887, with duties and countries of ori- gin, in detail. (5) The same for 1888, with duties and countries of origin, in detail. (6) Threads and warps imported in 1887, with duties and countries of origiu, in detail. (7) The same for 1888, with duties and countries of origin, in detail. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 187 (8) The imports of cotton, cotton-batting, threads, yarns, -warps, tissues, etc, for INSS and 1S89, in pounds, with a summary. (D) The imports of cotton, threads, yarns, warps, and tissues, plain, wrought, or damasked, brocaded and embroidered, Tulles, muslins, and veilings, also laces, by country of origin. (11) Imports and exports of cotton and cotton manufactures, 1880-1888. I also send by another mail a package of samples of cotton cloths, such as I have been able to procure. I found the wholesale dealers very unwilling to give prices, samples, or any other details of their busi- ness. I will inclose a statement showing such details as to cost, etc., of threads and cloths imported, as I have been able to procure — state- ment No 10. AUGUSTUS O. BOURN, Consul- General. U. S. CONSULATE GENERAL, Rome, March 31, 1890. (1) Imports of cotton textiles into the Province of Rome in 1886 and 1887. [1 kilogram = 2. 205 pounds.] Description. Quantity. 1886. 1887. Cotton: Kilograms. 52 3,122 107 Kilograms, 1,105 Threads, untwisted and unbleached, measuring from 10,000 to 20,000 meters Threads, 'untwisted" and bleached, measuring more than 30,000 and up to 55 Threads, untwisted, dyed : Measuring more than 50,000 and up to 60,000 meters for every half 5 2 24 36 Threads, twisted, unbleached: Measuring more than 20, 000* and up to 30,000 meters for every half kilo- 16 4 36 142 241 2,171 1,504 1,628 389 94 35 876 2,837 1,682 3,539 290 148 Measuring more than 30,000 and up to 40,000 meters for every half kilo- Measuring more than 40,000 and up to 50,000 meters for every half kilo- 8 1,123 2,247 2,132 1,860 1,989 239 117 Threads twisted, bleached: Measuring not more than 10 000 meters for every half kilogram ..... Measuring from 10 000 to 20 000 meters for every half kilogram Measuring more than 20,000 and up to 30,000 meters for every half kilo- Measuring more than 30.0QO and up to 40,000 meters for every half kilo- Measuring more than 40,000 and up to 50,000 meters for every half kilo- Measuring more than 50,000 and up to 60,000 meters for every half kilo- Thread, twisted, dyed: Measiring from 10,000 up to 20,000 metera for every half kilogram Measuring from 20 000 to 30 000 meters for every half kilogram 1,008 2,950 2,006 3,567 129 18 Measuring from 30 000 to 40 000 meters for every half kilogram Measuring more than 40,000 and up to 50,000 meters for every half kilo- Measuring more than 50,000 and up to 60,000 meters for every half kilo- Measuring more than 60,000 meters for every half kilogram .. 188 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. (1) Imports of cotton textiles into the Province of Rome, etc. — Continued. Description. Quantity. 1886. Tissues, unbleached: Kilograms, Of the weight of 13 kilograms or more per 100 square meters that contain in warp and woof on a square of 5 millimeters : 27 elementary threads or less 8, 353 More than 27 threads . 1,341 Of the weight of 7 or more kilograms but less than 13 per 100' square me- ters that contain in warp and woof in a square of 5 millimeters : 27 elementary threads or less 457 More than 27 threads 30 Of the weight of less than 7 kilograms per 100 square meters that contain in warp and woof in a square of 5 millimeters : 27 elementary threads or less 729 More than 27 threads 46 Tissues, bleached : Of the weight of 13 kilograms or more per 100 square meters that contain in warp and woof on a square of 5 millimeters : 27 elementary threads or less 2, 535 More than 27 threads 95,441 Of the weight of 7 or more kilograms but less than 13 per 100 square meters that contain in warp and woof in a square of 5 millimeters : 27 elementary threads or less 2, 463 More than 27 elementary threads 12, 977 Of the weight of less than 7 kilograms per 100 square meters that contain in warp and woof in a square of 5 millimeters: 27 elementary threads or less 4, 048 More than 27 elementary threads 738 Tissues, colored or dyed : Of the weight of 13 kilograms or more per 100 square meters that contain in warp and woop on a square of 5 millimeters. 27 elementary threads or less 5, 626 More than 27 threads 37,757 Of the weight of 7 or more kilograms but less than 13 per 100 square meters that contain in warp and woop in a square of 5 millimeters: 27 elementary threads or less 50, 186 More than 27 threads 49,339 Oi the weight of less than 7 kilograms per 100 square metera that contain in warp and woop in a square of 5 millimeters : 27 elementary threads or less 793 More than 27 threads 96 Tissues, printed : Of the weight of 13 kilograms or more per 100 square meters that contain in warp and woof on a square of 5 millimeters : 27 elementary threads or less 7, 218 Morethan27 threads 2,207 Of the weight of 7 or more kilograms but less than 13 per 100 square meters that contain in warp and woof in a square of 5 millimeters : 27 elementary threads or less 36,668 More than 27 threads 67,027 Of the weight of less than 7 kilograms per 100 square meters that contain in warp and woof in a square of 5 millimeters : 27 elementary threads or less 6 More than 27 threads 29 Tissues, embroidered: In chain stitch 237 In double stitch 915 Tulles, gauze, and muslins: Bleached or dyed 7,388 Embroidered 294 Tissues: Oil cloths for floors and ditto tarred 125 All others 1,325 Buttons, hosiery, guipures, and blankets 3,916 Galloons and ribbons 1, 170 Laces 4,656 Velvets, dyed 5, 953 Sewed articles 19,753 Kilograms. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 189 I l!:i HSE * »S «•-•>;• i sl i3 sa s « ^s s ^r J -- — o 5- " il •*o I o co lo pg _« : IJ -- ^'3 IS jfcfi i gs| = sSJE|2 ^ fEC^^i=?6S B I •r g 5 ?- 190 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREION COUNTRIES. t3 as c3 IP! tl \ CO of a • • • 3 ii \ \ I If \ j I 3 •ii ; ; u j j ® . s . q « J3g a c^ 00 S o ^oc •11 si IO •* t- «- CO~ r- ii 1^ : : Ml 4s • •S* « CO o CO te II • oc •1-2 c S 3£ ? ?O Tj* -^ r~ T— §co c £ F 1 IS 00 T-l 5g s S o s • a CO CO « O5 Oi h- co Tt< cr 4O O r- ;"M CO 00 Ci r-< £v « a o ^ §•« •^Ti-T rH s 1 9 1 2 5 • a. .3 =o ^ CO T*4 OO C^ O OO O C Is S !C5 t-- C O> t> 5 1 £ Q>-§ t-r-l 1 Z ; I 1 . ; ; JH ; ; ? .3 PQ'S) <§« : : • | S & • • S ^ <£ >» gco « CJ (MrH -d 00 05^ § 3 §.cs 'I'i « x A O « 1 2 1 'I'i ^ CO • IE ! S K •*J» 15 1 _? c c ii ii 1 !.S -S'3 T ^ &? = "r p 'S -'C "rt 'n , ! 1 §3 fe 1 33 ^ .9.S 1 &g •^ f-l t4 } 4 P fr-i G3 C ^ ft? c 1? ft c L| IS rj £3 f- ftg § O ; ^2 ££ 'I ;3 2s i J c 5 i o - .H .s §" -M O CC (£ >t- OOr-l r- T- * S a ' • * • • • lh llll :||.S : :^.s| ioi§ i l^lg i 2.2f np* g'S'S SSa S|o S«^ g8| i' |rf § ll i j ; s ° 2 ® : *£%~ TO fl a C Qo^f ;>1|^..! his * II; s g|| u ^-f « = a , 0 bi)^ "co_® g^r |:!|||j!|| ! 5 5j| I|£!II> ^ ^ £ ^ , &£ 1 II s^s !o 6 o COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 191 83 I 1 32 N rH~ CO s§ II il Si a a ¥1 II is I 3 .§ I 33 .3.3 -33.2-3-2 . « BIO ,-f -iSl* L£-J 00 O o fig : :ss 3 o •* • • ** a |S-S S :SC82 S s|,S..^ :^«2 ^2 ,JilIlj=!fi!il- ilsfepilil|j ?- ^2- l r>r5.-Ebir.T- •- z -S« S r^-- .ss~£s1 -5 22§ ? fa's^i-^gS &s; -s^i c- 23;= ill II! , 192 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. I!1! . CO • • CO ii || S£.S § 1^ 1 III ? I & nil 800 5 ill § -si" * ^ |a§ §•§ A 1 Ss | :; ifl 11 ago c« « t S C*a ^3 <•} .% 0 U jMM ^i ii Cl— 1 O (JJF^J «St S4S P Si2?s " °s"gs § ill S3 !|! 11 j.- Mi:";* i^ a| W| P in ill si 3 C82 CD - § eg 8 • '•'.'. ?j8a a-S i 1^3 o ^i al-a SJ Sjl" 1.1 ontiuu -^ B ^£§ if §s s "rs? § ill ^ •SoS .3,0- s^- ^1 rs fl o S u i *i Jjfl5-S858i 1 r.'js gs O © 00 T-I ... ' °5a .-2 fSJ |1 4 t o ^•" ^ •gS* o-- |i2 is la£ .§ N .0 « si A CO ' ti i i MM [ SI -1^ III ^ •** 6C 1^1 §-s J 1 II || 1« " «Ea§8 1 «!.* ^ -o „ 2 "^ 3 S3 3 ^fl a=— ' 2 2 o . ;0 -^ 5 '-3 s £ o O H • •**£-<& CO h-t^OitOCXl --O Se/CC^CO C5 OO-^OCO t- •g^ ineo (M-rfcoccto I-H cr- oc | a .as a'd ••iis^-s fflSK-a £ 00 Is 1 General duties. . filiif/ ed, 450. Muslins and t on the unbleached; p il more than the duty n to the duty on the t ioned, 50 per cent, mo 1 the like. 10 per cent., uty on the tissue. i 5 • '• fc* 3? ' ' t^^.S'S 3'B) r°D.g.-si§i ^ OlM «Or-l CQOO t— TtK 10-5; O>-* 0»»A (M» 1 t, gil 5 1. 85 r Switzerland. Total. Threads, untwisted and unbleached (for every half kilogram) : Not more than 10 000 meters $3 47 308 278 379 10 63 1 038 10 000 to 20 000 meters 4.25 9 49 45 1 330 172 1 605 20 000 to 30 000 meters 5 02 353 1 974 850 891 4 068 30 000 to 40 000 meters 6.18 490 269 339 200 1 298 40 000 to 50 000 meters 7 53 61 9 35 71 176 50 000 to 60 000 meters 9.26 27 92 56 42 216 Over 60 000 meters 11 58 31 14 13 58 Threads, untwisted and bleached (for every half kilogram) : Not more than 10 000 meters 4.17 5 - 10 149 1 049 1 213 10 000 to 20 000 meters 5 10 3 26 36 350 55 475 20 000 to 30 000 meters 6.02 81 11 54 146 30,000 to 40,000 meters 7.41 5 . 5 Threads, untwisted and dyed (for every half kilogram) : Xot moie than 10 000 meters 8 30 503 102 454 26 1 085 10 000 to 20 000 meters 9 07 4 83 '. 32 192 120 27 *854 20 000 to 30*000 meters 9 81 5 21 17 5 36 84 30,00* to 40,000 meters 11.00 11 13 24, 40 000 to 50 000 meters 12 35 6 g Over 60, 000 meters 16.40 2 3 5 Threads twisted and unbleached (for every half kilogram) : Not more than 10 000 meters 4 52 37 5 90 1 132 10 000 to 20 000 meters 5.52 42 47 31 4 447 4 567 20 000 to 30 000 meters 6 52 2 08 57 3 460 3 3 733 30 000 to 40,000 meters 8 03 33 396 33 5 907 7 6 376 40 000 to 50 000 meters 9 79 41 248 83 g *381 50 000 to 60 000 meters 12 04 139 42 166 10 358 Over 60,000 meters ... 15.05 329 53 310 94 786 Threads twisted and bleached (for t-vrry half kilogram) : Not more than 10 000 meters . 5.42 5 18 69 660 752 10 000 to 20 000 meters 6 62 50 55 96 163 4 843 9 5 216 20 000 to 30 000 meters 7 83 1 89 53 78 292 1 576 23 2 211 30 000 to 40 000 meters 9 63 69 25 27 136 1 778 .... 26 2 054 40*000 to 50*000 meters 11 74 21 21 24 113 170 23 372 50 000 to 60 000 meters 14 46 5 § 49 54 21 135 Over 60 000 meters ... 18 06 7 ...... 51 32 75 5 170 Threads twisted and dyed (for every half kilogram): Xot more than 10,000 meters 10 79 5 ;; 47 28 16 99 10 000 to 20 000 meters 11 79 199 43 53 351 6°9 23 1 998 '20 000 to 30 000 meters 12.80 302 79 232 688 633 2 1 977 30,000 to 40,000 motors 14 30 57 13 87 130 247 18 552 40 000 to 50 000 meters 16 06 34 9 32 72 107 28 282 ."<) 000 to 60 000 meters 18 32 3 24 25 31 2 85 Over 60 000 meters 21 33 3 49 34 95 ...... 7 193 Warps untwisted and unbleached (for every half kilogram): Not more than 10,000 meters 4.00 714 714 10,000 to 20,000 meters 4.88 287 287 'JO 000 to 30,000 meters 5 77 436 5 441 Warps untwisted and bleached, 10,000 to 20,000 meters (for every half kilo- gram) .' 5.86 21 21 Warps untwisted and dyed, 20,000 to 30,000 meters (for every half kilo- gram) 11 32 4 4 Warps twisted and unbleached (for every half kilogram) : 10 000 to 20 000 meters 6 :$5 850 g--,0 20,000 to 30,000 meters 30,000 to 40,000 meter* 7.90 9.24 103 10 938 59 ... 1,041 69 60,000 meters 17 31 32 32 ' Total 47 543 196 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES, (7) Imports of threads and warps for the year 1888. [In quintals of 220.46 pounds.] Description. Austria- Hungary. Belgium. France. Germany. Great Brit- ain. Malta and Holland. Switzer- land. _; c3 | Threads: Untwisted: Unbleached . - - 27 60 89 1,274 2,461 17 5 884 9 812 Bleached 5 14 82 730 41 902 Dved 50 15 23 1,081 167 133 1 469 Twisted: Unbleached 23 7 55 243 10 798 16 290 11 432 Bleached 40 g 61 214 5 193 162 5 679 Dved 51 73 501 465 123 1 213 Warps : Untwisted 13 750 763 Twisted 4 314 96 414 Sewing tread on spools and bobbins 49 9 35 905 1 327 7 2 332 Llama thread: Untwisted, dyed : . Not over 10,000 meters for every half kilogram 159 162 321 10,000 to 20,000 meters for every half kilogram 5 178 3 186 Twisted, dyed : Not over 10,000 meters for every half kilogram ...... ' 3 3 3 g g a 2 4 Total 34 439 (8) Cotton threads, warps, and tissues imported into Italy in the years 1888 and 1889. Description. 1889. 1888. Cotton : Haw 89,843 74 978 Batting • ..... ....... ... do 591 57 Thread: Untwisted— 2, 478, 631 2 163 154 Bleached do 252 426 198 885 Dye(l do... 600, 092 323 856 Twisted— do... 2 442 917 2 520 299 Bleached do 1 089 072 1 251 99? J)yed . . . do 147 267 267 418 Warps: Untwisted . do 132 496 168 211 Twisted do.... 12, 346 91 270 .. do 840 834 514 113 Llama thread: do 96 782 111 773 Twisted do 6,393 661 Cord ...do... 1 984 Fishing-twine - •• ..... do.... 2 205 i 882 Tissues: . do... 5, 155 898 3 621 717 Bleached ...do... 4, 365, 549 3,757 299 do . 3 138 910 3 348 l'J6 Printed -• do.... 5, 474, 021 3,846 365 Wrought or damasked — Unbleached ...do... 70, 327 68 343 do ... 263 008 161 377 Colored or dyed . ...do... 358, 027 283 953 .do.... 40 344 46 517 Brocaded- Smooth • . do . 12 566 14 772 Wrought or damasked .......... do.... 6,173 3 969 Embroidered — Chain stitch ........... ...do... 1,323 6 173 do 64 595 55 776 Tulles: do 13 228 7 936 Bleached or dyed .. ...do.... 72. 752 69,446 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 197 (8) Cotton threads, warps, and tissues imported into Italy, etc. — Continued. Description. 1889. 1888. Muslins and veilings: Unbleached 1 984 3 968 Bleached do 13 007 8 598 .....do... 13, 007 12,566 Printed ... do 441 442 Worked do 23 369 83 775 Brocaded .. ......... .... do. 4 850 12 566 Embroidered — Chain stitch ... . do 882 2 866 Double stitch do 1 984 11 'M3 TNsm-s: Tarred oiled etc do 12 787 17 857 Oil cloths do .. 291 889 •jrtf 74!) Polished with emery do... 84,436 54, 454 Buttons do 1 102 ELoeiery: Plate . -do 3 257 16 314 Wrought . . do.... 3 307 10, 975 do 133 598 147 488 Galloons and ribbons . . . . . . . ..do.... 72, 090 73, 413 do 58 992 96 083 Velvets : . do 185 848 191 359 Fine dyed .. . do .... 277, 118 262,750 Tissues, mixed : With silk io 72,090 41 887 Withwool do .... 1, 769, 632 618, 170 With silk and wool do 20, 503 20 723 With gold and silver or gilt and silvered threads do .... 3,346 4,304 With other metallic threads do 3 805 3 413 Sewed articles : Bags bed and table linen etc do 111 194 65 477 Collars wristbands and mens' shirts . ...do 47,399 53, 792 All other do .... 386, 461 415,788 SUMMARY. Cotton raw and batting 89 903 75 035 8 101,461 7 614 498 Buttons do 1 102 1 39't Hosiery .... .. do 6 764 .'{.'{ •'*«) Trimmings do 133 598 147 488 Tissues do 19 096 245 15 4°7 7*};$ Tisnes, tarred, oiled, polished, etc do 389, 112 :>2(J 050 Galloons and ribbons do 72 090 73 413 Luces do 58,092 100 492 Velvets do 462 966 291 809 Tissues mi xfd with other materials .............. do 1 869 376 688 497 Sewed articles do 545 054 535 057 198 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. (9; Cotton, threads, warps, and tissues imported into Italy in 1888 and 1889 by Coun- tries of origin. Countries, etc. - 1889. 1888. Cotton: Great Britain .. Tons. 4, 874. 2 Tons. 3, 015. 1 English Possessions in Asia 44, 352. 8 35, 875. 6 Eoypt .... 10, 368. 0 8, 066. 4 South America 19 455.0 22, 845. 8 Central and North America.. .... 4, 964. 6 2, 201. 2 Other countries 5 828.3 2, 974. 3 Total 89 842.9 74 978.4 Th reads and warps, excluding llama thread, cord, and fishing twine : Germany Pounds. 1, 009, 265 Pounds. 951, 726 Great Britain 4 890 244 4 895 314 Switzerland 1,962,976 1,485,018 133, 599 167, 108 Total 7 996 084 7 499 166 Tissues, plain, wrought, or damasked, brocaded, and embroidered, tulles, muslins, and veilings : 2 420 871 2 941 416 Great Britain 12 767,500 9 299 888 Switzerland .... 2, 966, 730 2, 362, 449 Other countries 941 144 1,524 040 Total 19 096 245 15 427,793 Laces : Austria-Hungary . . ...... 919 5,538 France. .. . ...... 3,710 11, 089 Great Britain 42 273 44 996 9,824 17, 220 Switzerland . . 1 136 16 089 Other countries. ....... .. 229 1,151 Total 58 091 96, 083 (10) Note on Tnreads. The thread imported is largely that made by J. & P. Coats, England, and by Zwirmerei in Goggingen, Germany. The spools contain 80, 200, and 500 yards, and cost for 80-yard spools 94£ cents per gross ; 200-yard spools, $1.97 per gross; 500- yard spools, $5.50 per gross for the German manufacture' The English threads are in 500-yard spools, and cost 33 shillings, about $8.01 per gross. The five samples of bleached cloth cost as follows : Mark. Length of piece. Price per meter. LLL Yards. 45 d. 7g M.M.M 42* M2 44 gf H, 442 4? M7 ^ | GJ Pieces average about 42£ yards. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Prints. 199 Sample. Where manufactured. Length. Width. Cost. "Vo 1 Vienna Ifton, Centimeter*. u 6; I » 3 B 14 K 1( B s •S H !>. 1, $ cents per meter, cents per meter. '0 cents per meter, pence per yard, pence per yard, pence per yard, pence per yard, pence per yard. [>ence per yard, pence per yard. i cents per meter. & CP nts per meter. >T6a cents per meter. !% cents per meter, cents per meter, cents per meter, cents per meter, cents per meter, cents per meter. 4 cents per meter. ; cents per meter, cents per meter. \ cents per meter. No 2 ... Germany ..... .. do No 4 Manchester England 55 55 55 55 55 55 55 25-30 45-50 40-50 40-50 44-46 60 No 5 do No G do No 7 do * So 8 do . No 4 do No 10 do No.ll No I'' Italy 1.30 .70 .70 .70 .60 .65-. 70 .55 .70 .70 1.10 .78-. 80 .70 do \o i:< do No 14 do No !"• do No 16 do No 17 do No 18 do 45-50 45-50 40-45 40-45 50-55 35 No 19 do Xo.'JU ....do do . No. 22 ....do No 23 do * This varies in width from 77 to 79 centimeters and in price from 7.7 to 8.7 cents per meter. (11) Italian imports and exports of cotton and cotton manufactures from 1880 to 1888. Tears. Cotton, in bales or in mass, and wadding. Cotton yarn and thread." Cotton tissues.! Imports. Exports. Excess of imports over exports. Imports. Exports. Excess of imports over exports. Imports. Exports. Excess of imports over exports. 1880.. 1881.. .. 1882.. . 1883.. . 1884.. . 1885.. . 1886.. . 18H7.. . 1888.. . Ton*. 47,265 48,494 62,888 67, 318 66,138 78,573 68, Oil 76,226 75,035 Tons. 18,086 16,696 14,620 22,264 20,323 19,161 17,386 13, 135 13,292 Tons. 29,179 31, 798 48,268 45,054 45. 815 59, 412 50,625 63,091 61,743 Tons. 5,774 11, 923 9,072 9,046 8,994 7,682 6,259 4,754 3,454 Tons. 152 67 57 103 174 99 171 340 402 Tons. 5,622 11,856 9,015 8,943 8,820 7,583 6,088 4,414 3.052 Tons. 9,747 14,090 12, 761 14,265 14,276 14, 157 13, 698 16, 989 8,078 Tons. 632 611 599 609 670 584 683 936 980 Tons. 9,115 13, 479 12. 162 13,656 13, 606 13, 573 13, 015 16,053 7,098 * Cotton yarn and thread also includes warps, both plain and twisted. t Cotton tissues, also includes buttons, galloons, laces, velvets, and made-up articles. CATANIA. REPORT BY CONSUL LAMANT1A. In compliance with Department circular of May 27, referring to cotton textile imports in this consular district, I have the honor to submit the following report, the data of which were obtained from this chamber of commerce, the proper source wherefrom accurate information could be got. IMPORTS. The total quantity of raw, dyed, whitened, and stamped cotton textile imports of last year amounted to 479^ tons, of a value of $249,112, an average annual import of 1,111 tons for the last five years, as will be shown in the annexed table. 200 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. WEIGHT. The weight per yard of said articles is as follows : Textiles presenting 5 millimeters square, with 27 threads between chain and woof: Ounces. Raw 5 Whitened Si- Dyed 3 Stamped 2£ HOW PURCHASED. The same are purchased in Italy at four and six months from date of invoice, or for cash on arrival of goods, less 4 per cent, discount ; Eng- land at three and four months, and cash less 2J per cent. ; France at four months, and cash less 3 and 5 per cent. ; Germany at four months, and cash less 3 and 5 per cent. ; Austria at six months, and cash less 5 per cent. ; and so on according to agreement. PLACE OF MANUFACTURE. Those imported from Italy are manufactured at Turin, Milan, Genoa, Leghorn, and Naples ; those from England, at Manchester ; from France, at Lyons 5 from Austria, at Vienna ; from Germany, at Stutt- gart and Chemnitz. Duties on textiles (raw). Kilo- grams. Rates of duties. Weighing 13 kilograms or more, for 100 square meters, presenting 5 millimeters square : With 27 threads, or less 100 Lire. 62 With more than 27 threads 100 74 Weighing 7 kilograms or more, for 100 square meters, presenting 5 millimeters square : With 27 threads or less 100 84 With more than 27 threads :..... 100 100 Weighing less than 7 kilograms per 100 square meters, presenting 5 millimeters square : With 27 threads or less 100 110 With more than 27 threads 100 130 * Whitened, 20 per cent, augumentation on the raw textiles. Stamped, 80 lire augumentation for 100 kilograms on the whitened. Dyed, 35 lire augumentation for 100 kilograms on the raw textiles. According tfo the statistical data during the last five years it |eems that Italian textile imports had increased from 551 tons in 1884 to 1,340 tons in 1886, but since then commenced to decline up to last year con- siderably. The same was the case with all the other importing countries and especially with France, on account of the war- tariff with Italy. The general decline has been caused by the crisis which has for the last three years greatly affected the trade of this whole island, and especially this consular district, where several heavy and important fail- ures have occurred, causing demoralization in commerce, loss of confi- dence, trust, and credit, and a general discouragement. * Raw textiles mixed, with white cotton are considered as whitened. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 201 Common whitened, ntamped, colored, and mixed textiles imported into Catania during thz year 1888. [In kilograms and United States currency]. Cotton textiles. Italy. England. France. Kilo- grams. Value. Kilo- grams. Value. Kilo- grams. Value. Common : No specification given 87. 451 $34,229 Weighing 13 kilograms or more, present! millimeters square, with 27 threads or lee More than 27 threads ng5 ts ... Weighing 7 kilograms or more, bi 13 kilograms, with 27 threads or 1< White: Xo specification given it less than )38 174, 181 14, 030 Weighing 13 kilograms, etc 9,343 $5,606 42, 107 2,000 11, 430 79 324 $47 230 More thau 27 threads 59,306 2,612 15, 159 Weighing 7 kilograms or more, but kilograms, with 27 threads or less More than 27 threads less than 13 49 37 Colored: No specification given* 15,431 11,437 Weighing 13 kilograms, etc 34 182 18, 459 »,702 22 160 13.873 7,665 2,382 1,686 More than 27 threads - — Weighing 7 kilograms or more, but kilograms, with 27 threads orlesn More than 27 threads less thau 13 25 20 Stamped: No specification given 7,431 28,950 Weighing 13 kilograms, etc . ... 25 56 More than 27 threads Weighing 7 kilograms or more, but less than 13 kilograms, with 27 threads 6,759 28,690 7,300 36, 150 382 785 412 989 More than 27 threads Total 284,494 88,646 | 0,271 126, 368 4,426 3,421 Cotton textiles. Austria. Germany. Other coun- tries. Total. Kilo- grains. Value. Kilo- grams. Value. Kilo- grams Value. Kilo- grams. Value. Common : No specification given 87,451 168 4,216 $34,229 102 6,460 Weighing 13 kilograms or more, presenting 5 millimeters square, with 27 threads or less 103 438 |62 231 65 3,778 $40 2,682 More than 27 threads Weighing 7 kilograms or more, but less than 13 kilograms, with 27 threads or less White: Xo specification given 174, 181 9,426 60,313 4,067 15, 518 15, 431 2,568 1,319 19, 495 11,611 7,431 4,301 8,949 8,264 43, 331 14,030 5,656 42, 832 3, 249 11, 707 11,437 1,808 1,007 14,676 78, 274 28,950 4, 6.% 9,495 8,925 44,166 Weighing 13 kilograms, etc 4 283 3 213 "406 143 59 "$282' 98 51 More than 27 threads Weighing 7 kilograms or more, but less than 13 kUograms, with 27 threads or less 1,314 1,151 More than 27 threads 251 189 Colored : Xo specification given Weighing 13 kilograms, etc More than 27 threads 21 50 14 37 131 1,087 287 711 86 810 212 562 Weighing 7 kilograms or more, but 1 than 13 kilograms, with 27 threads or less 724 583 572 461 More than 27 threads 615 586 Stamped: >»o specification given Weighing 13 kilograms, etc 179 7,270 175 7,850 4,097 1,679 4,425 1,645 More than -J7 threads Weighing 7 kilograms or more, but IBM than 13 kilograms, with 27 threads 1,123 1,023 1,213 1,289 More than 27 threads 12,833 5,738 Total 4,918 4,772 26,629 18, 371 7,634 7,534 479,267 249, 112 202 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Total imports during years 1884, 1885, 1886, 1887, and 1888. Years. Italy. England. Franee. Tons. Value. Tons. Value. Tons. Value. 1888 284J 867 1,340 587 551 $88,646 541, 322 973, 058 518,060 473, 013 150£ 232 263 351 316 $126, 368 136,078 198, 687 295, 134 226, 279 £ 45 39 31 $3, 421 27, 057 36, 749 37, 642 51,304 1887 1880 1885 1884 Total 3,629| 2, 584, 099 1, 312i 982, 546 148J 156, 173 Years. Austria. Germany. Other countries. Total. Tons. Value. Tons. Value. Tons. Value. $7, 334 6,634 46, 287 32, 764 12, 122 Tons. Value. 1888 5 27 59 60 59 $4,772 24,642 52, 799 69, 196 67, 849 26J 30 21 40 26 $18, 371 25, 711 26,914 39, 044 26,313 ? 51 35 12 478$ 1, 193 1,779 1,110 995 $249,112 761, 444 1,3:!4,494 991, 840 856, 880 1887 1886 1885 1884 Total. 210 219, 258 143£ 136, 353 113£ 105, 341 5, 55fli 4, 193, 770 Average annual imports 1,111 tons; value of, $838,754. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Catania July 14, 1889. VINCENT LAMANTIA, Consul. FLORENCE. REPORT BY CONSUL D1LLER. In pursuance of directions contained in cotton textile circular, I herewith append a table which contains full information on the above points, so far as the immediate district of the province of Florence is concerned. I have found it impossible to procure reliable information from the seven remaining provinces connected with this consular district in time for this report, and as this is the great center for the importation of goods embraced in the inquiry, the table I inclose will, I think, cover the, objects mentioned in your circular. I I again repeat what I have heretofore reported that, in my opinion, Florence presents, from its geographical position, many advantages for the establishment of a grand entrepot for the sale and exhibition of American products, chief among them being our cotton textiles, agri- cultural machinery and implements, mechanics7 tools, and wooden ware. This entrepot should be in charge of persons fully acquainted with all the details of the business of each department and familiar with the language of the country. I also inclose several samples of cotton textiles in general use in this city, with the retail price in pencil, marked No. 2. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 203 I have great pleasure in acknowledging the valuable services of Spirito Bernardi, esq., the vice-consul here, for his assistance in prepar- ing this report and collecting the accompanying samples. ISAAC K. DILLER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Florence, Italy, July 6, 1889. Statement showing the imports of cotton textiles into Florence, 1888. » Cotton textiles and whence imported. Weighing 13 kilo- grams (28.652 pounds) or more to every 100 square meters (119.59 square yards) and hav- ing in & square of 5 millimeters of warp and woof — Weighing 7 kilo- grams (15.428 pounds) or more and less than 13 kilograms (28.652 pounds) to every 100 square me- ters(119.59 square yards) and hav- ing in a square of 5 millimeters of warp and woof— Weighing less Than 7 kilograms (15.428 pounds) to every 100 square meters (119.59 square yards) and hav- ing in a square of 5 millimeters of warp and woof — Total. Duties charged thereon. 27orle88 element- ary threads. More than 27 element- ary threads. 27 or less element- ary threads. More than 27 element- ary threads. 27 or less element- ary threads. More than 27 element- ary threads. Unbleached : France Germany Pound*. 112 448 2,086 Pound* Pounds. Pounds. Pounds. Pounds. -Pounds. 6,942 117r 738 184, 117 75. 746 6.632 $463.47 9, 594. 22 19,266.40 11, 688. 56 617. 66 :it Britain... Swit/erland 787 2,059 976 461 Turkey 13 Bleached : Austria 2,659 787 3,035 461 428 53 Belgium 190 1,843 3,959 54,537 2,846 Franc*1 1, 955 3,084 16, 870 33 42 209 5,531 212 1,036 580 17,765 465 26 430 858 1,283 205 265 1,845 1,188 (jtTiuanv (Jr. -at Britain .. Switzerland Colored or dyed : Austria 22,370 63,375 5,994 19,899 2,597 3,503 161 2,132 7,167 6,832 26 123 2,348 3, 726 32,386 511 France 893 1.177 57,348 5,459 7 2,238 4,288 53, 376 1,779 187 Germany 470 Great Britain... Switzerland Turkey 108 875 Printed : Austria 16, 318 39,094 64,884 62, 181 1,345 295 • France 684 1,501 1,045 842 238 1,995 4,976 119 12, 877 9,198 8,382 7 1,091 11,021 20,104 1,457 Germany Great Britain... Switzerland 31 143 K"vi.t' 35 Sized, imitation damask, bleached: Be lei urn 4,072 7,209 30,583 33, 708 31 143 154 73 474 3,750 France . 9 71 4 64 Germany Great Britain ... 1,561 430 42 1,570 4,451 430 139 42 204 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton textiles and whence imported. Weighing 13 kilo- grams (28.652 pounds) or more to every 100 square meters (119.59 square yards) and hav- ing in a square of 5 millimeters of warp and woof— Weighing 7 kilo- grams (15.428 pounds) or more and less than 13 kilograms (28.652 pounds to every 100 square me- ters(119.59 square yards) and hav- ing in a square of 5 millimeters of warp and woof- Weigh ing less than 7 kilograms (15.428 pounds) to every 100 square meters (119.59 square yards) and hav- ing in a square of 5 millimeters of warp and woof— Total. Duties charged thereon. 27 or less element- ary threads. More than 27 element- ary threads. 27 or less element- ary threads. More than 27 element- ary threads. 27 or less element- ary threads. More than 27 element- ary threads. Sized, imitation damask, colored or dyed : Belgium . Pounds. Pounds. 1 482 Pounds. Pounds. 11 159 582 1,208 Pounds. Pounds. Pounds. 15^196 4,477 192 33 22 1,063 1,020 37 1 $1,860.41 740. 17 29.18 8.93 7.41 I 409. 20 466. 12 18.72 France 35 258 941 2,176 1,742 481 117 Germany Great Britain... Sized, imitation damask, printed: France 4 1,234 11,881 117 1,960 4 44 465 42 Germany 317 1,488 2,121 Great Britain... Brocaded, colored or dyed: Germany 551 317 3,609 9 174 Great Britain 9 Embroidered in chain stitch, col- ored or dyed : France 9 183 31 2 Germany Embroidered in double stitch, un- bleached: Switzerland 33 Embroidered in double stitch, bleached : Austria 16 152 443 62 390 France Germany Great Britain... Switzerland Embroidered in double stitch, col- ored or dyed : France 1,063 168 388 58 404 2 Germany . Great Britain.. Switzerland .. Egypt Embroidered in double stitch, printed : France 1,020 24 0 4 • Germany . . Great Britain... 37 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 205 Cotton textiles and whence imported. "Weighing 13 kilo- grams (28.652 pounds) or more to every 100 square meters (119.59 square yards) and hav- ing in a square or 5 millimeters of warp and woof— Weighing 7 kilo- gram s (15.428 pounds) or more and less than 13 kilograms (28.652 pounds) to every 100 square me- ters ( 119.59 square yards) and hav- ing in a square of 5 millimeters of warp and wool — Weighing less than 7 kilograms (15.428 pounds) to every 100 square meters (119.69 square yards) and hav- ing in a square pf 5 millimeters of warp and woof— Total. Duties charged thereon. 27 or less element- ary threads. More than 27 element- ary threads. 27 or less element- ary threads. More than 27 element- ary threads. 27 or less element- ary threads. More than 27 element- ary threads. Mixed with silk, bleached: Pounds. Pounds. 55 18 11 Pounds. Pounds. Pounds. Pounds. Pounds. 84 29 1,019 2,595 15,915 7,083 137 440, 077 $15. 59 6.02 162.98 422. 49 1, 995. 72 911. 14 22,62 48, Tflf.Ol Switzerland Mixed with silk, printed: Germany ... 84 = 18 11 29 Mixed with silk, col- ored or dyed : Austria ===== 15 84 653 216 31 20 Great Britain Mixed with silk, sized and bro- caded, colored or dyed : 999 20 2,205 146 143 68 IT ranee Great Britain 33 Mixed with wool, smooth, colored or dyed: 2,562 33 7,249 « Great Britain... Switzerland Mixed with wool, sized, colored or dyed: Belgium 8,657 9 15, 915 681 35 77 6,290 <;i.;it Britain... Mi\i'«| with wool andwilk, niz.cd. im- itation damask, colored or dyed : Belgium 7,083 31 106 Germany A "gregate 137 - Terms.— Payments are usually made either three or six months after production of bill of lading. 206 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. GENOA. • REPORT BY CONSUL FLETCHER. On account of the peculiar manner in which statistics are recorded by officials of the Italian Government in this consular district, and the different mode of levying duties on imported merchandise, as compared with United States laws on such subjects and in such cases, questions Nos. 1 and 4, of Department circular, relating to cotton textiles, must be answered as one interrogatory. The same with interrogatories Nos. 2 and 5. Imports of cotton textiles imported into Genoa during year 1888. Description. % Aus- tria. Bel- gium. France. Ger- many. Great Britain. Spain. Switz- erland. Total. Plain textiles of cotton: Unbleached Kilos. 2 Kilos. Kilos. 57 Kilos. 631 Kilos. 125 994 Kilox. Kilos. Kilos. 126 684 Bleached "06 685 5,617 104, 615 2,721 113 844 Colored 1 951 2,218 3,389 7,342 97, 436 5,977 118,313 Printed 3 109 2,469 22, 693 205 246 34 489 268 006 Total 626, 847 Damask cotton textiles : Unbleached 40 1,691 38 1, 769 Bleached .... 754 5, 637 6,391 Colored 76 336 1,729 6 384 480 432 9 437 Printed 12 344 2, 399 4 081 6 836 Total 24 433 Cotton brocades : Colored 26 177 203 Embroidered cotton textiles: Chain stitch 15 29 371 235 650 Long stitch 2 17 180 33 541 773 Tulle 21 673 1,929 146 2,769 Muslin 414 494 685 31 1,624 Oil-cloth 448 1,275 17 1,740 Waxed cloth 89 30,754 729 31, 572 Emery-cloth ...... ...... 4, 279 1,141 5,420 Aggregate . . . 696, 031 • All cloth from Great Britain, Spain, and Belgium is imported by sea, whereas the same class of merchandise from Austria, France, Germany, and Switzerland comes by rail. I HOW PURCHASED1? Three months, credit is usually given buyers of cotton textiles. DUTIES. On unbleached textiles weighing 13 kilograms or more per 100 square meters, and which present in a square of 5 millimeters each side, adding the number of threads of the warp to those of the weft, 27 threads or less, 62 lire per 100 kilograms j if more than 27 threads 74 lires per 100 kilograms. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 207 On unbleached cotton textiles weighing 7 kilograms or more, but less than 13 kilograms per 100 square meters, which present in a square of 5 millimeters each side, adding the number of threads of the warp to those of the weft, 27 threads or less, 84 lire per 100 kilograms ; more Uian27 threads 100 lire per 100 kilograms. Unbleached cotton textiles weighing less, than 7 kilograms per 100 square meters, and which present in a square of 5 millimeters each side, adding the number of threads of the warp to those of the weft, L>7 threads or less, 110 lire per 100 kilograms ; more than 27 threads 130 lire per 100 kilograms. Bleached cotton textiles pay 20 per cent, more duties than the un- bleached above mentioned. Unbleached cotton textiles mixed with white threads pay as much as bleached cotton. » Colored cotton textiles pay 35 lire per 100 kilograms more than un- bleached, varying according to the qualities above named. Printed cottons pay 80 lire per 100 kilograms more than bleached textiles, as above noted. Damask cotton textiles pay 20 lire per 100 kilograms in addition to the tissue as above. Cotton brocades pay 40 lire per 100 kilograms besides the duty on the cloth. Bleached and unbleached cloth with few and narrow colored stripes, indicating the use thereof for hospitals or similar institutions, or for the army, or for making bags, pays the same duty as for bleached or un- bleached cloth. Oil or tarred cloth, also, if covered with paper, pays 30 lire per 100 kilograms, besides the duty on the cloth as above stated. Waxed cloth pays 60 lire per 100 kilograms in addition to the regular duty on the cloth. Emery cloth pays half the duty the cloth itself would pay if without emery. Tulle, unbleached, pays 400 lire per 100 kilograms; bleached or colored pays ir>n lire per 100 kilograms. Muslins, unbleached, at the rate of 200 lire per 100 grams ; bleached, 20 per cent, more than unbleached ; colored, 235 lire per 100 kilograms; printed, 320 lire per 100 kilograms ; brocades, 40 lire besides the duty on the cloth ; embroidered, chain stitch, 200 lire, as well as the duty collected on the cloth ; embroidered, long stitch, 300 lire, in addition to the amount levied on the cloth. Any cotton textiles weighing less than 3 kilograms per 100 square meters, pay the same duties as muslins ; likewise those cotton goods of any weight which are only in part muslins or veils. Any kind of cotton textiles, embroidered, in which less than 12 per cent, of silk is used, if chain stitch, 200 lire, if long stitch, 300 lire, besides the duty on the cloth. 208 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Any kind of cotton textile, embroidered, in which not less than 12 per cent, and not more than 50 per cent, of silk is employed, the rates per 100 kilograms are as follows : Embroidered. Chain stitch. Long stitch. Black and plain cloth -.... Lire. 600 900 700 1,000 Lire. 700 1,000 800 1,100 Colored and plain cloth . Any kind of cotton cloth embroidered with gold or silver threads, or gilt or silvered threads, 500 lire per 100 kilograms, besides the duty on the cloth. Any kind of cloth embroidered with ordinary metal threads, 200 lire per 100 kilograms, in addition to the regular duty ou the cloth. I beg to give Mr. Willy Hasenbalg, a young German cotton merchant, at present residing in G^noa, my sincere thanks for valuable assistance in the compilation of the statistics above submitted. JAMES FLETCHER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Genoa, July 17, 1889. MESSINA. REPORT BY CONSUL JONES. ITALIAN versus FOREIGN COTTONS. Messina was deprived January 1, 1880, by act of Parliament, of its ancient privileges, and ceased to be a free port. Under the old regime Messina was the distributing point for Sicily and Calabria, and through this artificially stimulated trade large fortunes were made by importers. Since 1880, all merchandise entered at this port has been subject to the tariff existing for the whole kingdom, and the imports from abroad of cotton textiles, as well as of many other articles, have greatly de- creased, their place being taken by national industrial products. ^ The latter, first, from being protected for a number of years by the premium on gold during the legal tender period (1874-'83), and, secondly, by the increase in import duties, have developed rapidly and have reached such a point as to successfully meet foreign competition, especially as concerns shirtings, gray long cloth, ect., that constitute the principal articles of consumption in Sicily. Foreign fancy articles still retain their supremacy, but their sale is not very large. Formerly England and Switzerland supplied this market almost en- tirely ; they have gradually lost ground, and the imports from these countries have fallen off at least 75 per cent, since 1880, COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 209 The imports from France and Germany, consisting more especially in silks, woolen goods, etc.. rather than in cotton goods, have also fallen off very materially since Italian manufacturers have begun to produce the same articles with increased success. Recourse must still be had to foreign countries for articles of " haute uouveaute"," and for textiles of superior quality. Tuscany produces principally light cotton goods; Piedmont and Liguria manufacture heavier articles; Lombardy excels in the produc- tion of shirtings. Of late years the manufacturers have not only im- proved the quality of their goods, but have also improved in the dressing and bleaching. Shirtings, gray cloths, etc., are salable in southern Italy, provided they contain more or less starch, hence they are not sold by weight but by measure. There is an establishment at Messina that produces cotton shirting and prints. The shirting is woven by hand. The calicoes (used for prints) are imported from England (the duty on the same being com- paratively light) and the printing is done at a very handsome profit. They have still much to learn in this art, but as the great majority of the population seeks cheapness rather than quality, this establishment finds ready sale for its goods, both in Sicily and on the continent. KINDS IMPORTED. As to the quantity of cotton textiles imported into Messina during the year 1888, the figures furnished by the director of the Messina cus- tom-house are as below : Plain woven cotton goods, weighing, per 100 square meters : Kilograms. 13 kilograms and upwards 96,796 7to 13 kilograms ". 170,830 Less than 7 kilograms 1,656 Cotton goods not specified 20, 024 WHENCE IMPORTED. ) Kilograms. England 259,566 Austria 3,691 France 16,094 Germany 3,149 Switzerland 4,994 Belgium 353 United States 1,459 Total 289,306 DUTIES. Total duties collected on above, $60,418. Goods are usually bought at thirty days, with 2 per cent, discount, or at three months without discount. 608A 14 210 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Goods from all countries pay the same duties, except those coining from France, which latter, since the abrogation of the treaty of com- merce between France and Italy, pay a duty 50 per cent, higher. Goods entering Italy must be accompanied by a certificate showing their place of manufacture, otherwise duties are exacted as though the merchandise were of French origiu. A schedule of import duties (per 100 kilograms) on cotton textiles is subjoined. Schedule of import duties on cotton textiles per 100 kilograms. [1 kilogram = 2.20 pounds; 1 meter=39.37 inches.] Cottons, unbleached : Not exceeding 27 threads to a square of 5 millimeters counting the warp and filling, and weighing 13 kilograms or upwards the 100 square meters $12.00 Exceeding 27 threads, etc : 14. 00 Not exceeding 27 threads, etc., weighing 7 kilograms or upwards, but less than 13 kilograms, the 100 square meters 16. 20 Exceeding 27 threads, etc 19. 30 Weighing less than 7 kilograms : Not exceeding 27 threads 21.23 Exceeding 27 threads 25.00 Bleached, duty as on unbleached with 20 per cent, additional. Colored, stained, or printed, duty as on unbleached with 35 per cent, additional. Printed, duty as on unbleached with 80 per cent, additional. Damasks, duty as on unbleached with 20 per cent, added. Brocades, $8 per hundred weight and the duty on material added. Embroideries, $38. 60 per hundred weight and duty on material added. Tulles: Unbleached .- $77.20 Bleached ....' 86.80 Muslins, unbleached, $38.60 ; bleached, 20 per cent. ; colored, 35 per cent. ; printed, 80 per cent, j embroidered, $38.60 added to duty on unbleached. Oil-cloth $5.80 Buttons 29.00 Stockinet 29.00 Trimmings 29,00 Galloons and gimps 23.20 Laces and lace-curtains, per kilogram. ^ 1. 35 Velveteens : Common, per hundred weight 23.20 Bleached 27.00 Colored, stained 31.90 Printed 42.50 Velvets : Common 27.00 Bleached ... 32.90 Colored, stained 38.60 Printed.. 48.40 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 211 \ Textiles, mixed: With loss than 1'J ]>er cent, silk, duty aeeordiiin to material, with $7. 84 per hundred weight added ; with less than 50 per cent, wool, duty as above, with ijvJ.'.Ki per hundred weight added ; with metallic threads, 98 cents per kilogram, with duty on material added. sh«.-ts, table-cloths, towels, etc., duty according to material, with 10 per cent, added. Collars, c ufls, and men's shirts, double the duty on material. Wbenever a manufactured article can not be classified by its weight and measure and the number of threads in a square ot'5 millimeters, the highest duty of the class to which it belongs is charged. WALLACE S. JONES, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Messina, July 8, 1889. NAPLES. REPORT BY CONSUL CAMPHAVSEN. ITALIAN VS. FOREIGN COTTONS. In obedience to the instructions of your circular of May 27, 1889, I have the honor to present the following report upon the cotton textiles imported into this consular district : From persons for many years engaged in manufacturing and import- ing this article, I have reliable information, that twenty years ago nearly all cotton textiles used in Italy were imported, but the high duty on imports, which has steadily increased year after year, has given im- petus to Italian industries, and to-day 75 percent, of all articles of this description are produced in this country. National spinning and weaving is progressing continually and rap- idly. The present almost prohibitory tariff on French goods gave additional advantages to German competitors, who inundate the markets with dress goods, both sightly and cheap, gradually cutting out English products. Alsatian prints are being preferred to those of Manchester on account of superior finish and better color, notwithstanding that great progress has been made in English productions. Furniture prints, once important articles, are now to a large extent superseded by jute fabrics, which are cheap and more durable, and are largely manufactured in this country. Gray madapollams to be used for linings are imported from Manchester, England, and from Switzer- land ; bleached shirtings and long-cloths from Manchester ; piques and white fancy cotton materials suitable for dress and other purposes mainly from Manchester and to some extent from Switzerland and Austria; 212 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. printed cottons for furnishing purposes, curtains, etc., from Manches- ter, better qualities from Miilhause, in Alsace; also small quantities of low priced goods from other parts of Germany ; Turkey red twills from Switzerland and England ; Victoria lawns from Manchester, England. The weight of madapollams is less than 15 pounds per 100 square yards. Bleached shirtings and long cloths from 15 to 27 pounds per 100 square yards; also in smaller quantities weighing more than 27 pounds per 100 square yards. Furniture cretonnes more than 27 pounds per 100 square yards, dress prints and Turkey red twills from 15 to 27 pounds per 100 square yards, and Victoria lawns less than 15 pounds per 100 square yards. These goods are purchased principally through agents residing in Na- ples or some other city in Italy, and who travel to the different import- ant commercial centers. These agents represent commission houses and manufacturers. The usual terms are three mouths from date of invoice, and frequently longer time is given. As a general rule, I think Neapolitan merchants are very slow payers, and usually take their own time to pay their bills. The statement of cotton textiles imported at Naples during the year 1888, herewith presented, is a correct copy from the records of the cus- tom-house here, and in every respect authentic and reliable, showing the multiplicity of cotton goods imported and the respective duty im- posed. From the recapitulation it appears that the total quantity of cotton textiles imported in Italy during the year 1888 is 2,917,514.845 pounds avoirdupois. The present indications are that the importations this year, judging from those of the first six months of 1889 will slightly exceed those of 1888. Attached to the statement is an instrument used to ascertain how many threads are contained in 5 millimeters square, counting both warp and weft. I also present a description of the principal imports of cotton goods into Naples, with the duties in Italian lire per kilogram, or 2.20485 pounds avoirdupois. EDWARD CAMPHAUSEN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Naples, August 5, 1889, i COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton textiles imported at Naples, Italy, during the year 1888. 213 Description and whence imported. Weight. Rate of duty per lOO'kilo- grams. UXBLEACHED TEXTILES. Weighing 13 kilograms or more, for every 100 meters, and counting in 5 milli- meters square 27 threads or less, including warp and welt (used for bag- ging) : Kilograms. Lire. Germany 70 GreatBritain 482 Of more than 27 threads (used for sheeting and shirting) : Austria 136 France , 106 Germany - 226 Great Britain 5,036 United States 63 Smooth, weight 7 kilograms or more, 27 threads or less (used for sheeting and shirting) : Austria 8,411 France 6, 627 Germany 11,786 Great Britain 16.139 Switzerland 13,361 West Indies 7 Of more than 27 threads (used for same purpose) : Austria 136 ) France 18 I Germany 1,809 ( GreatBritain « 1,573 ) Weighing less than 7 kilograms, 27 threads or less (used for linings) : Austria 2,433 France 1,459 | Germany 7,132 S GreatBritain 806 Switzerland „ 5,397 BLEACHED TEXTILES. Weighing 7 kilograms or more, 27 threads or less : Austria 1, 167 France 1,109 Germany 6,536 Creat Britain 202,485 Switzerland 50 . United States 12 Holland 5 ! Malta... . 41 J Weighing 13 kilograms or more for every 100 meters, and counting in 5 milli- meters square more than 'J7 threads (calicoes): Austria...' 4,262 France 5,272 Germany 7, 189 GreatBritain 213,021 Switzerland 305 Belgium '251 Holland 447 United States 18 Weighing 7 kilograms or more, etc., 27 threads or less (calicoes) : France 13 Germany 208 Great Britain 57,515 Turkey 5 United States 14 Same, more than 27 threads (calicoes) : Austria 1,137 Franc*? 949 Germany 8,942 Gri>at Britain 40,724 Holland 39 Tunis 59 -.ma 172 Sam.-, less than 27 threads (calicoes): Austria 57 I France 36 I Great Britain 3,819 Switzerland 155 Weighing less than 7 kilograms, more than 27 threads (colored calicoes) : Austria • 1 France 13 Germany 263 Great Britain 5,036 214 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton textiles imported at Naples, Italy, etc. — Continued. Description and whence imported. Weight. BLEACHED TEXTILES— Continued. Colored, weighing 13 kilograms or more, 27 threads or less (lawns) : Kilograms. Austria 1,863 Franco 2,317 Germany / 2,684 Great Britain , 7,907 Holland 2,473 Weighing 13 kilograms or more for every 100 meters and counting in 5 millime- ters square more than 27 threads (calicoes and lawns) : Austria 2,071 France 4,432 Germany 10,343 Great Britain .• 107,814 Switzerland : 847 Holland 131 Belgium 441 Massana 39 United States 48 7 kilograms or more, 27 threads or less (calicoes) : Austria 1,338 France 416 Germany *. 6,036 Great Britain 48, 166 Switzerland 4,630 Belgium '. 1,026 Holland 477 Turkey '. 22 United States 571 Same, more than 27 threads (calicoes; . Austria 6,946 France ! 7,699 Germany 15,261 Great Britain 61,703 Switzerland 7,044 Holland 3,067 Belgium TINTED TEXTILES. Weighing less than 7 kilograms, 27 threads or less (Turkey-red, plain prints, one color) : c France 634 Germany 986 Great Britain 3,462 Switzerland 52 STAMPED TEXTILES. Weighing 13 kilograms or more, 27 threads or less (furniture cretonnes) : Austria 759 France 593 Germany 2,156 Great Britain 9,036 Switzerland 1,565 Holland 947 Weighing 13 kilograms or more for every 100 meters, and counting in 5 milli- meters square 27 threads or less (furniture cretons) : Austria 17,688 France 2,725 Germany 12,932 Great Britain 71,284 Switzerland 29,511 Holland 1,540 Belgium 2,829 United States 356 Seven kilograms or more, more than 27 threads (dress prints) : Austria 5,552 France 16,865 Germany 19,368 Great Britain 62,891 Switzerland 2,201 Belgium 427 Holland , 338 United States 229 Less than 7 kilograms, 27 threads or less (hatistes) : France Germany 62 Great Britain 1,957 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton textiles imported at Naples, Italy, etc. — Continued. 215 Description and whence imported. Weight. Rate of duty per 100'kilo- grams. COLOKKD TEXTILES. Less than 7 kilograms, more than 27 threads (batistes) : Kilograms. Lire. Fi-am-6 925 Germany 338 GreatBritain 1,046 > 1G5.00 Switzerland 313 Massana 15 J STAMPED TEXTILES. Thirteen kilograms or more, 27 threads or less (batistes) : Austria 12 1 Franc.- 1,437 Germany.... 626 j Gr.-at Britain 18,851 J S;ime, more than 27 threads (batistes) : Germany 31 , „„. G.eat Britain 1,368 ' Same, operati, damasked, 13 kilograms or more, 27 threads or less (batistes) : German j' 443 ? GreatBritain 615 * 82-°° UNBLEACHED TEXTILES. Weighing 13 kilograms or more for every 100 meters, and counting in 5 milli- meters square 27 threads or less : France 46 German v 749 GreatBritain 6,720 J. 94.00 Switzerland 487 Belgium 651 Seven kilograms or more, more than 27 threads (batistes) : Austria 145 ) Germany 1,206 > 120.00 GreatBritain 582 > BLEACHED TEXTILES. Thirteen kilograms or more, 27 threads or less (batistes) : Germany 3 94. 40 Same, and more than 27 threads (batistes) : Austria 380 France 2 Germany 83 > 108.80 t Britain 9,652 Belgium 196 Seven kf ilojrrama or more, 27 threads or less (batistes) : Great Britain 97 120. 80 Same, and more than 27 threads (batistes) : France 9 r GreatBritain 317 J 140-°° Same, and 27 threads or less (batistes) : Great Britain 506 117. 00 Tinted, 13 kilograms or more, more than 27 threads (batistes) : Austria 1,272 France 654 Germany 902 GreatBritain 1,913 > 129.00 Turkey 11 Belgium 95 Holland 799 ) Same, 7 kilograms or more, 27 threads or less (batistes) : Great Britain 2,884 c 100 — Switzerland 44 * TINTED TEXTILES. W.-i-hinir 7 kilosrams or more for every 100 meters, and counting in 5 milli- meters square _'7 threads or less, including warp and weft (batistes) : Aus- tria and Great Britain 430 165.00 Same, more than 27 threads (batistes): Austria 151 France 93 Germany 765 GreatBritaiu 3,470 j- 155.00 Swit/erl.ind 166 Holland 485 Tunis 2 J Same. more than 27 threads : Switzerland 98 185.00 Same, stamped, more than 27 tlin-a.l*: Germany 215 ? ,fi, ^ Gr.at Britain 622 i ' _ Weighing 7 kilograms or more, more than. 27 threads (batistes): France 10 21b* COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton textiles imported at Naples, Italy, etc. — Continued. Description and whence imported. Weight. BROCADED TEXTILES. Unbleached, weighing less than 7 kilograms, 27 threads or;less : Kilograms. Germany 158 Switzerland 324 Bleached, weighing 13 kilograms or more, more than 27 threads: France Same, weighing less than 7 kilograms, more than 27 threads : Germany 21 Tinted, weighing 13 kilograms or more, more than 27 threads : France 56 Germany 71 Great Britain 219 Greece 2 Weighing 7 kilograms or more for every 100 meters and counting in 5 milli- meters square 27 threads or more : Great Britain Stamped, weighing less than 7 kilograms, 27 threads or Jess : West Indies 5 BROCADED AND FIGURED OR DAMASKED. Less than 7 kilograms, 27 threads or less : West Indies Thirteen kilograms or more, 27 threads or less : Germany More than 27 threads : France Weighing 7 kilograms or more, more than 27 threads : Germany Same, stamped, weighing 7 kilograms or more, more than 27 threads: Austria. . EMBROIDERED TEXTILES. Smooth tinted, weighing 7 kilograms or more, more than 27 threads : France . . 66 Thirteen kilograms or more, more than 27 threads : France Less than 7 kilograms, more than 27 threads : Switzerland Figured and damasked, unbleached, weighing 7 kilograms or more for every 100 meters, and counting in 5 millimeters square more than 27 threads : France. . 38 Tinted, 13 kilograms or more, 27 threads or less: Austria 4 1 317 00 France 47 | 5 Plain, bleached, 7 kilograms or more, 27 threads or less : Germany 38 j 400. 80 Same, more than 27 threads : Germany 686 1 Austria 93 ' France 229 Great Britain 48 Switzerland , 1,123 Less than 7 kilograms, more than 27 threads : Austria 189 France 5 Tinted, 7 kilograms or more, more than 27 threads: Austria France , 261 Germany 338 Great Britain 89 Switzerland 97 Massana , 17 Figured and damasked and bleached, 7 kilogramsor more, more than 27 threads: France 50 Germany 6 Switzerland 193 Tinted, same, more than 27 threads: Switzerland 19 Brocaded and bleached, weighing? kilograms or more for every 100 meters and counting in 5 millimeters square more than 27 threads : France Veils, bleached and colored: Austria . 103 France 500 Germany 331 Great Britain 987 Switzerland 20 Belgium 25 Bleached and tinted veils, unembroidered: Austria France 135 Germany 810 Switzerland 5 Muslins and thin textiles, bleached, plain : Austria 3 France "...'. 302 Germany 38 Great Britain : .".."..." 181 Massana , 1 Same, colored: France 392 Great Britain .".." 96 Massana. . . 7 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton textiles imported at Naples, Italy, etc. — Continued. 217 Description and whence imported. Weight. Rate of te£ grams. EMBROIDERED TEXTILES — Continued. Same, figured and bleached : Kilograms. Lire. Austria 4 France 2 I GreatBritain 708 \ Switzerland 49 Turkey.. 2 j Muslins and thin textiles, figured in tinted colors: France 146 Austria 15 Germany 255 > 255.00 Great Britain 1,118 Switzerland 89 J Same, stamped: Germany 19 340.00 Same, brocaded and bleached : France 13 280.00 Muslins tinted in colors : France 7 , ™_ M GreatBritain 13 > **^~ Samestamped: France 7 360.00 Muslins and thin textiles, figured and brocaded, tinted in colors: France » 21 * on_ „, GreatBritain 34 $ 295-°° Same plain, bleached:. Switzerland 137 440.00 Same figured, tinted in colors : France 4 455.00 Same embroidered, plain tinted in colors : France 4 \ Germany 40 > 535.00 Massana 2 > Same embroidered, tinted: Austria - 14 France 56 , ,,_ n, Germany 187 ' 555' °° GreatBritain 19 Gummed and oiled textiles and others of the same kind : Austria 6 France 19 Germany 20 , „_ _, GreatBritain 1,286 > Switzerland 17 Belgium 9 "WaxedtextQes: Austria 48 France 162 Germany 318 GreatBritain 11,631 > 60.00 • Holland 14 Massana 4 United States 186 J Emery textiles made from unbleached textiles weighing 13 kilograms or more tor every 100 meters and counting in 5 millimeters square more than 27 threads : France 106 Germany 83 Same made from bleached textiles weighing 13 kilograms or more, 27 threads or less: Germany 93 37.20 RECAPITULATION. Kilograms. Austria 59,093 Belgium 5,565 France 68,842 Germany 121,433 Great, Britain 986,462 Holland Massana Switzerland Tunis... Turke 11,413 439 68,377 59 40 Turkey 40 United States 1,484 West Indies 19 Total ". 1,323,226 Total pounds 2,917,515 218 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Weight and cost of the principal imports of cotton goods into Naples, Italy. [The duties are quoted per kilogram, or 2.205 pounds avoirdupois.] Description. Weight: 13 kilograms or more per 100 square meters and counting in 5 milli- meters square in- cluding warp and weft: Weight: 7 kilograms or more but less than 13 kilograms per lOOsquare meters and haviug in 5 mil- limeters square in- cluding warp and weft: Weight: less than 7 kilograms j)er 100 square meters having in 5 millimeters square including warp and weft : 27 threads or less. More than 27 threads. 27 threads or less. More than 27 threads. 27 threads or less. More than 27 threads. Lire. 1.24 1.48 1.76 1.59 1.85 2.188 Gray calicoes . Lire. .62 .744 .944 .97 1.17 1.444 1.444 Lire. .12 .864 1.088 1.07 1.29 1.564 1.564 Lire. .75 .90 1.208 1.10 1.39 1.60 Lire. .86 1.032 1.40 1.21 1.55 1.732 Lire. l.'OO 1.20 1.52 1.35 1.65 1.90 Bleached shirting and long Piqued etc Dyed cottons: Plain, Turkey twills .... Printed calicoes Furniture cretonnes Victoria lawns 1.20 1.52 1.72 1.92 1.48 1.76 1.96 2.16 White cotton lace damask . . Goods for dresses : Brocade . . .944 1.144 1.344 1.088 1.288 1,488 1.208 1.408 1.608 1.40 1.60 1.80 Brocaded damask PALERMO. REPORT BY CONSUL CARROLL. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of circular of the De- partment, dated May 27 last, and to inclose herein, in accordance there- with, a statement of the cotton textiles imported into or entering this port during the year ended December 31, 1888. The total cotton goods imported into Palermo during the period re- ferred to appears from the statement in question to have been 316,652 kilograms. Besides this quantity 2,068,807 kilograms came from Messina and various places in continental Italy, viz : Genoa, Leghorn, and Naples. Purchases of cotton textiles are made with the under- standing that payment shall be made in thirty, sixty, or ninety days from date of invoice, with the exception of purchases made in England, upon which 5 per centum is charged from date of sale or invoice until paid. Importation of cotton textiles, etc., were made from Austria, England and Germany during the period under consideration. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 219 Quantity, etc., of the cotton textiles imported into Palermo during the year 1888. Description. Quantity. Duty per 100 kilograms. SMOOTH, BLEACHED COTTON TISSUE. Weigh't, 13 kilograms or more for every 100 square meters, having a side of fj millimeters containing 27 elementary threads or less Kilograms. 8 375 $14. 88 135 8^6 17 28 NVeijjliiujT? kilograms or more, but less than 13, for every 100 square meters, 4 605 18 00 Contaiuing'iiiore than 27 threads 8 294 20 64 Weighing less than 7 kilograms for every 100 square meters, containing 27 elementary threads or less .. ... 89 24 00 640 99 76 COTTON, DYED TISSUE. Weighing 13 kilograms or more for every 100 square meters, having a side of 5 millimeters and containing 27 elementary threads or less 2 919 19 40 12 891 21 40 Weighing 7 kilograms or more, bnt less than 13, for every 100 square meters, 6 881 2° 00 Containing more than 27 threads 27 371 24 20 Weighing less than 7 kilograms and containing 27 elementary threads or less. . Containing more than 27 threads . 47 1 318 27.00 31 80 COTTON FEINTED TISSUE. Weighing more than 13 kilograms for every 100 square meters, having a side of 5 millimeters and containing 27 elementary threads or less 11 298 28 88 9 441 31 28 Weighing 7 kilograms or more, hut less than 13, for every 100 square meters, and containing 27 elementary threads or less ........ .... .... 21, 741 32 00 Containing more than 27 threads 63 979 34 64 Weighing 7 kilograms for every 100 square meters and containing 27 elemen- tary threads or less 365 38 00 Containing more than 27 threads. ... 572 43 76 Total 316 652 Besides the above, which was imported from Austria, England, and Germany, the following quantities of cotton goods of Italian manufact- ure entered this port during the year 1888, from — Kilograms. Genoa 1,312,370 Leghorn 18t*,' meter, yard, or piece). ) Cotton stamped in colors, 26.52 to) 28.08 inches wide (purchased by> the meter or yard). ) Colored handke'rchiefs, 30 by 42 to) 31 by 20 inches (purchased by> the dozen). ) Damask, 27.3 to 29.25 inches wide (purchased by the yard or meter) : White England Ounces. 24 27 30 35 22 24 ( 27 *18 *24 22 24 ( 24 £ 33 27 I 27 ( 30 Cents. 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 *18 *25 • 2 2 2 2 2 2 38.5 to 39.6 yards. S30.8 to 33 yards. ^26.4 to 33 yards. 26.40 yards. 33 yards. 55 yards. 19.8 yards. 21 yards. England, Prussia, and Switzerland. do England and Switzer- land Tinted ....do . Plain tinted cotton cloth, 23.35 to) 31.20 inches wide (purchased by> the meter or yard). ) Velvet tinted damask, 18.72 to 19.5) inches wide (purchased by the> yard or meter). ) England do 3.2 4 * Per dozen. The duties are those given in the latest tariff revision, that of April 15, 1889. Tulles, muslins, and cotton embroideries are imported from England and Switzerland, but it is im- possible to give accurate statistics in regard to those articles, their values, and hence the duties paid, beiug so variable. H. ABERT JOHNSON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Venice, August 7, 1889. i COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 221 PORTUGAL. THE AZORES. REPORT BY CONSUL DABNET, OF FATAL. v f In answer to the principal points contained in the circular of the 27th of May, issued by the Department of State, I subjoin the following statis- tics of the importation of cotton goods at this place for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1889: Kinds. Weight. Duty. From Great Britain : Kilograms. 3,967 $551. 93 Bleached 9 586 4 1,542 16 Twilled - 440.8 126. 49 DyP(J •• • • 3 489 1 622.21 Tulle 69 70.90 649 50.79 Flannfl 21 10 95 250.8 130. 5D Shawls - ......... . 559.6 315. 82 70.692 46.72 Total - 4, 468. 56 From the United States: Unbleached 37 575 $5 227 95 1022 164.41 1174 71.46 Twilled 316.3 33. 37 1868.6 869.30 13.8 6 84 Total $6, 373. 33 From Germany: Bleached - "... 12 1.90 Velvet - - 38 19.83 Shawls 143 8.07 9.200 8.68 Total .- ... . $38.48 Weight of goods per yard. Width. Weight. English: Bleached regress . - Inches. 27 Pounds. .060 Unbleached £ • 28 .059 27 147 American : ecu 36 .148 Wachusett B 30 137 .Androscoggin L .... 36 108 Cabot >. 36 .103 Langdon 76 36 121 A comparison of these importations shows that nearly all the un- bleached is of American manufacture, while of the bleached Great Brit- ain furnishes the greater part. 222 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. It is acknowledged here that the unbleached American cotton is su perior to the English, and in vain have the shop-keepers who trade mostly with England endeavored to have the American successfully imitated. Per contra, the English bleached cottons are more in favor, which I am informed is probably due to the fact that they contain more sizing, deluding the buyers into the belief in their superiority. The purchases in England are made generally through agents, but some of the more enterprising shop-keepers go and select the goods themselves. In the United States purchases are made through agents residing there, and also by the masters of the sailing packets, who take many or- ders, receiving payment after delivery of the merchandise. The trade between the Azores and the United States is limited, of course, owing to the small population of the former, but it is carefully cultivated by those engaged in it. Calicoes that formerly were almost entirely imported from England are now furnished by Portugal, the fabrics being taken from England principally to be dyed in the Portuguese factories that are protected by high duties. I have limited this report to the island of Fayal, for it is difficult to get statistics at some of the other islands, and if it went beyond it should properly extend over the consular district which embraces the nine islands, the population of which is only about 250,000. S. W. DABNEY, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Fayal October 22, 1889 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 223 LISBON. REPORT BY VIOE-CONSUL-QENERAL WILBOR. I have to report that no custom-house returns of cotton textiles im- ported into this Kingdom are procurable of a later date than 1887. These returns give no details of length or weight per yard nor of place ot manufacture. They treat only of weight, gross amount of duty col- lected thereon, and country from whence imported. IMPORTS. Declared value and duty collected on imports. Description. Value. Duty col- lected. Millreig* 39 484 Millreis. 17 174 Unbleached cotton textures 976 000 422 867 lilpached cotton 953 604 320 465 Cotton dyfd printed or stamped twill , - ... 410 358 236 972 Cotton velvets and similar textiles.... 73 363 21 716 22 804 11 838 Cotton shawls and handkerchiefs ... .. ......... . . 157* 383 77 264 78 457 31 189 Cotton other woven ^oods not specified ... gq 635 20 749 27*760 14 000 Cotton heavy coarse textures 19 500 5 100 Cotton transparent cambric ........ 48 400 12 000 10 5-)0 1 364 Cotton loose woven .... . .. 65 572 28 581 16 000 4 634 Cotton Balloons 22 047 8 004 25 520 14 293 * Millreis, equal $1.08. Weight. — No returns per yard exist. Gross weight only given. How purchased. — Mainly on orders given to commercial travelers ; no goods sent on consignment. Place of manufacture. — No " place of manufacture " given. Countries from which the largest importation is made are : Millreia. Great Britain , .. 2,056,074 Germany 279,050 France 193,651 Belgium 26,896 United States 49,582 Duties charged : Open textures, laces, and insertings, duty per kilogram in United States money f 1. 62 Op«>n textures, barege, duty per kilogram in United States money 64 Open textures, tarlatan webbing, common tulle, crinoline, and similar text- ures 16 Fine veiling, bobinet, tulle, and similar goods 1. 18 Open textures not specified plain 1. 18 Open textures not specified worked 1. 62 Transparent textures, muslins, and cambric, unbleached 21 Transparent textures, muslins, and cambric, white 25£ Transparent textures not specified T , , 75 224 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Close textures, plain, heavy canvas, not proper for sails, bleached or un- bleached $Q.10i Rough and coarse, unbleached or whitened 07£ Glazed, brown, or whitened 16 Cambric, muslin, white 29 Textures not specified, unbleached 13£ Textures not specified, white 16 Textures napped in one color . 59£ Textures napped in more than one color 81 Counterpanes and blankets 59£ Mole skins, dyed 24 Mole skins, white or stamped 45 Close textures 59| Close textures, velveteens 24 Close textures, imitation velvets 48 Braids, twills, damasked or dazed, transparent or close, brown or white 32 Textures, twilled, dyed, or stamped - 54 Twills for stamping 21 Counterpanes •. .59$ Tape 48 Handkerchiefs and shawls of whatever description 64 Carpets 21 Wicks 54 Cravats and neckties in any shape, finished or not, 10 per cent, to be added to re- spective diities. Ribbed textures - 1. 08 Binding, bobbin-work, and galloon, including tares, excepting cartons, paper, or wood w 75 The total declared value of cotton textiles imported into Portugal during 1887 amounted to 33335,590 millreis, upon which a duty of 1,362,644 millreis was collected. J. B. WILBOR, Vice and Deputy Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, , July 28, 1889. SPAIN. BARCELONA. I REPORT BY CONSUL SOHEVOH. 1 have the honor to forward a detailed list of the importations of cotton tissues received into this port during the year 1888, as follows : The class and lot corresponding to the present tariff. The amount, in pesetas, of the duties imposed on each kilogram net proceeding from favored and unfavored nations. The most current goods of importation. Their origin and manufacture. The total amount received from each nation during the year 1888, according to the official report of this custom-house. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 225 v The total amount for 1888 by lots or class of goods according to the general tariff. The comparative total of 1887, 1886, and of 1889 up to September 30 ultimo. The length and width of the pieces of goods which we took as samples (in meters and yards). The weight, per meter or yard, of the same. The corresponding price per yard or meter. These last notes I extracted from the original invoices allowed me by the merchants, besides weighing and measuring the pieces with the greatest exactness. Fixing our attention somewhat to the details of the annexed list we observe : (1) That the importation of 1888 exceeded that of 1887 by 34 per cent., due, without doubt, to the greater consumption caused by the trav- elers attracted to the late Universal Exposition of Barcelona. (2) That England alone contributed about 70 per cent, of the supply of cotton goods in this capital, France about 20 per cent., Germany about 6 per cent., and Switzerland 3 per cent. Here it will be proper to observe that this subdivision, as regards France, Germany, and Switzerland, requires more exactness because the goods from these three countries, which are embarked at the French ports of Cette and Marseilles, are very often noted down at this custom- house as of French origin, though not being in reality, and thus consti- tuting by these declarations an erroneous base for the official report. (3) That the stamped, checkered, and ornamented goods proceed pref- erably from England, the novelties from France and Switzerland, and knit- work and lace from Germany. (4) As to prices, taking a certain kind of goods which comes from dif- ferent countries, the German goods turn out the cheapest and most in- ferior. Eespecting considerations of sale and delivery, I observe that the Eng- lish sell free on board at the port of embarking, taking upon themselves the packing, transport, embarking, and insurance, the freight remain- ing on account and risk of the owner, paid at thirty, sixty, and ninety days in pounds sterling at the exchange of that date. That the French and Swiss sometimes impose the same conditions, and others deliver the merchandise free on board at Marseilles or Cette, giving the franc for a peseta, that is to say, without difference for ex- change. That the Germans now almost always make it a rule to deliver free on board at Barcelona without difference of exchange, this custom of theirs being one of the reasons which explain the marked preference towards the business with German houses, whenever it is a question of articles of the same quality as those of any other origin. In fact to give the most approximate appreciation possible of the importation of 608A 15 226 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. cotton goods in this capital, I would state that during the year 1888 there passed from France to Spain by the land route of Cerbere — Port Bon— the amount of 1,110,434 kilograms of goods of all classes, that is to say of silk, cotton, wool, linen, and other fabrics the relative propor- tion of which it would be impossible to determine, because the railroad statistics do not classify them, mentioning only in a nominal way some 62,000 kilograms of cottonades, which remain included in the above specified quantity. Moreover all these goods do not come to Barcelona, because they are divided amongst the different towns on the road from the frontier to Barcelona and still beyond. Notwithstanding, it must be admitted that cotton goods are those that are introduced in much less quantity, when it is considered that the region of Catalonia is a cotton manufacturing region, as it works up annually from 35,000,000 to 40,000,000 kilograms of raw cotton. Barcelona exports annually to Cuba, Manila, Porto Rico, Guada- loupe, Trinidad, and the South American republics, about 1,300,000 to 1,500,000 kilograms of cotton goods, and supplies all the principal central deposits throughout Spain, where there are numerous ware- houses and deposits. What with thread, cotton twist, and cotton goods of all kinds, there are in all the manufacturing region about 400 factories, amongst which there are about 70 of the finest that employ from 200 to 800 men each, and a few from 1,000 to 2,000 men each. Including the auxiliary branches, that is, bleaching, dyeing, printing, and the minor industries, such as stockings, galloons, fringes, bands, ribbons, cords, and many other articles in the manufacture of which cotton is em- ployed, there existed in 1885 about 3,000 establishments with about 160,000 workmen (men, women, and children), who all lived by this in- dustry. FREDERICK H. SCHEUCH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Barcelona, November 1, 1889. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 227 Importations of cotton textiles at Barcelona during the years 1886, 1887, 18 Francs. 0 625 W^hite percales . ............. 58 80 JO. 135? 070 25 58 .80 056 285 Rose green and red 58 80 064 315 55 .80 060 26 30 80 166 86 White 5° .80 077 62 fj M 101 38 Inches. 14 by 14 80 167 *'> 06 Cotton flannels, 25 threads and upwards : Calico Meters. 40 80 090 1 40 40 8n 100 90 Madapollams . . . 40 M 100 1 00 White for ladies and children Yards. 20 Inches. 3° 33 118 33 Printed textiles, striped and figured, up to 25 threads: Percales Meters. 60 Meters. 80 0803 75 White damask 56 80 092 40 39 80 115 60 "Do 39 80 064 40 CO 80 1°9 505 Satins 40 80 081 85 Do .... . . . ... 42 80 090 90 Satins, colored 40 80 081 85 Novelties .... 25 80 1°6 1 40 Satin chine 43 80 093 1 40 Brilliants 40 80 125 1 44 Percales ....... .. 46 80 097 65 Satines 50 80 080 1 05 Crepe ........ 90 80 200 1 Zephyr 64 80 093 4° Yards. 21 Inches. 27-8 083 d. 0} Brilliants white 25 26-7 070 2^1 Brilliants creme 26 26-7 068 3A Fancy white . .. 21 26 815 4? Fancy creme 26 26-7 059 all Colored handkerchiefs 20 27 080 30 31 2 095 4i Black damask satins ........... ........... ... Meters. 25 Meters. 80 096 Francs, 95 Trunk-linings 40 80 281 1 20 Trunk-linings, colored 40 80 481 1.75 Printed textiles, 25 threads and upwards: Worked brilliants 38 145 70 33 237 1 15 Diaphanous textiles: Batistes 11 064 4° Victorias H 065 36 Organdies ... 27 041 34 Lumns .... 26 038 58 Batistes 26 .044 .80 White tarlatans 26 15 .058 090 .80 29 020 185 Muslins 26 040 1 10 Ticks, piques, etc. : Tick muleton . . 20 80 950 1 53 Do 30 .80 240 1 05 Pique 30 80 150 1 40 Plush pique. 21 SO 060 60 Tick pique 24 80 035 1 30 Colored reps 21 80 1°2 80 Manchester and fancy velvets : Cotton velvets, colored . . . 32-35 .50 095 77 Do... 25 50 100 i IR Do 25 .50 .094 o an 'Dozen. 230 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Imports of cotton textiles at Barcelona — Continued. Description of goods. Length of piece, meter or yard. Width. Weight of meter or yard. Price in factory. Tulles: Ordinary tulles .. .. ... . ...~.. ....... Meters. 25 Meters. .50 Kilos. .070 Francs. 1.60 24 60 083 1 05 Pine . - 25 .50 .018 0.50 Do 25 .50 .017 0.90 Do , 25 .50 .040 1.50 Do . . 25 .50 .055 2.50 Curtains in pieces .. ... .. ............. Yards. 50 Inches. 38 Yards. .080 d. 4. Do . Meters. 25 20-26 .050 Francs. 0.39 Do .— Yards. 65 51 .112 d. 0.5i Curtains 2J to 3J yards . .......... 6J .600 s.d. 2 6 Laces : Meters. 11 .009 1.15 Do 11 .011 4 65 Do 11 .008 .58 Do 30 .010 20 Do 30 .007 .09 Do 30 .015 .35 Lace curtains : Pair. 6.40 1.482 12 48 Do . 6.40 1.200 10.88 Do 6 40 0.868 5 12 6.40 0.892 7.04 Machine croched .......................... ............. 6.40 1.020 9.60 Meters. 30 .140 0.44 Underwear: Drawers fancy - •• -• ........ 1 .300 4.50 Undershirts fancy .... 1 .300 4.25 Undershirts plain 1 .430 3.00 Do 1 .280 2.50 Gloves and hosiery : Socks Pair. 12 .400 9 50 Socks Persian thread 12 .350 16. 00 12 1.000 8 00 'DO 12 .600 11.50 Hose colored ............ 12 .600 12.00 Do 12 .500 8.50 Hose, Scotch (lisle) 12 .800 1P°00 Do 12 .700 14 50 Gloves 12 .150 6.00 12 .150 6 00 Handerchiefs . .. ... ... Dozen. 1.200 12.00 Do 1.600 13 50 Do Dozen. 2.200 15.50 Dozen .807 7 45 Do .500 5.85 Do .410 7.55 Do . . .160 7.55 |. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Imports of cotton textiles at Barcelona. 231 . Classification, etc. Quantity imported in 1888. England. France. Helvetia. Ger- many. Bel- giuui- Italy. Various. Cotton flannels, white and colored, up to 25 threads Kvlot. 88,245 350 157, 687 Kiloi. 51,056 231 11,993 Kilo*. 10,154 96 3,316 Kilos. 4,900 Kilos. 488 KUot. 522 KUoi. 47 Cotton flannels 26 threads and up- wards Prints, striped and figured, up to 25 threads 5,028 25 396 987 658 12 3 306 441 7 917 34 447 132 9 Prints 26 threads and upwards Diaphanous textiles .. 2,296 1,138 2,913 360 367 14,018 1,685 191 2,891 1,695 *-•& 1 434 1,359 628 1,048 Ticks piques etc 202 Manchester and finer velvets . .. 1 Tulles 28 Laces . Lace curtains Underwear ..... ... 4 Total . 269, 150 71,462 ' 14,642 20, 673 728 970 188 Classification, etc. Total Jan. 1 to Sept 30, 1889. 1888. 1887. 1886. Cotton flannels, white and colored, up Cotton flannels, 26 threads and upwan Prints, striped and figured, up to 25 t! Prints ^6 threads and upwards to 25 threj Is ids Kilos. 155, 412 677 178, 537 34 6,631 4,022 4,660 486 371 14,758 3,489 8,736 Kilos. 185,310 709 32, 583 60 6,897 5,173 7,183 1,111 1,244 21, 472 2,658 2,826 Kilos. 179, 731 3,033 24,254 2, 164 9,897 5,140 8,602 629 848 16, 350 2,575 815 Kilos. 1G7, 132 821 51,060 25 8,908 3,036 4,468 2,580 781 7,595 3,845 12, 314 i reads ................ Diaphanous textiles .. Ticks piques etc Manchester and finer velvets Tulles .. . Laces . ... Lace curtains Underwear .. . Gloves and hosiery Total 377, 813 267,226 253, 998 362,565 232 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. SWITZERLAND. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL WASHBURN, OF BERNE. Cotton and cotton goods thereof imported into Switzerland during the calendar year 1888. [Duty and value per quintal of 220 pounds.] Whence imported. Quantity. Whence imported. Quantity. Cotton, raw (average value, 145 franca ; duty, general tariff, .30 francs) : Quintals. 8 068 Yarn, single, bleached (average value, 315 francs; duty, general tariff, 8 francs) • 3,627 Germany ...... ... 81 6 164 I Italy .... ... . 1,323 Italy .. . . 4 3,067 "Rftlgiuin ...................... . 5 Holland . 1,842 England. .. . 12 England 4,110 Total 1888 103 200 Total 1887 235 Egypt 86 024 British Indian . ........ 11,154 East Asia 110 Yarn, twisted, gauzed or not, raw, United States . . 99, 028 bleached (average value, 400 francs; Central America 98 duty, general tariff, 8 francs) : 466 Total, 1888 224, 817 Austria 15 5 Total, 1887 276, 420 Italy 15 507 Cotton waste (average value, 90 francs ; Holland 231 duty .30 francs, general tariff): Germany 10, 595 England TTnTtftrl m-nt«a 6,317 Austria France Italy 816 1,593 69 Total 1888 7,586 Belgium England .. 434 4,208 7,418 Total 1888 17, 715 315. 16 francs ; d'uty, general tariff 11 Total 1887 18 141 francs) • 2 725 France 19 Italy 3 77 England 19 62 Italy . 7 Total 1888 2,766 England 2 Total 1867 3,404 Totall888 148 Total 1887 122 Yarn, single, dyed (average value, 335 francs ; duty, general tariff, 11 francs): Germany . . . 419 Cotton yarn, single, raw, until "No. 40 1 English (average value, 180 francs ; France...... .... . ... .. ...... 20 duty, general tariff, 6 francs): 58 Italy Belgium 2 5 Italy 1 2 344 Total 1888 .,. 17 464 25 Totall887 392 Total 1888 431 Yarn, on spools, balls, skeins, for retail Totall887 768 (average value, 760 francs; duty, gen- eral tariff 35 francs) • Gemany . ............ 973 1 tariff 6 francs) • France ........................... 85 Germany ....... 29 65 France 2 62 'RftlcrinTn 45 Holland 74 England 140 England .................. 1,386 Total 1888 216 Total 1888 2,646 Total 1887 363 Total 1887 2,520 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 233 Cotton and cotton goods thereof imported into Switzerland, etc.— Continued. "Whence imported. Quantity. Whence imported. Quantity. Tissues, plain, twilled, ecru ; plain tulle (average value, 1,000 francs; duty, general tariff, 4 francs) : Quintals. 11 3 1 1 4 1,186 Tissues, plain, twilled, dyed (average value, 6tfb francs ; duty, general tariff, 35 francs) : Germanv ...... Quintals. 2>2S OO 1,248 277 115 11 1,231 5,227 5,762 2,256 9 656 45 98 6 944 Austria Austria"' France Belgium ... . .. Italy Holland Belgium England Holland Total 1888 1,206 1,538 Total, 1888 Total, 1887 Tissues of 38 threads or less to 5 milli- meters square, except tissues of yarn, averaging No. 70 English or finer number (average A alue, 335 francs ; duty, general tariff, 8 francs) : Total 1887 436 | 191 9 547 101 5,993 Tissues, plain, twilled, printed (average value, 740 francs; duty, general tariff, 35 francs) : Germany . . Austria Italy Italy Holland Belgium England Holland Total, 1888 England 4,014 4,068 223 5 118 2 13 695 1 967 1,096 613 5 120 112 1 488 1,346 1,231 160 3 80 Total, 1888 Total 1887 7,280 9,897 128 16 40 3 12, 015 12, 202 11, 187 1, 811 13 308 69 63 338 1 Cotton velvet (average value, 1,600 francs; duty, general tariff, 50 francs): Germany Total, 1887 Tissues of over 38 threads to 5 millime- ters square, and tissues of 38 threads and less, from yarn averaging No. 70 English or liner (average value, 625 francs; duty, general tariff, 14 francs) : Germany France Austria France Italy Belgium England TJnited States Total, 1888 Belgium Holland Total, 1887 - Tissues, figured, piqu6, dimity, dam- ask (average value, 700 francs; duty, general tariff, 16 francs): Germany England Total, 1888 TotAl 1K87 Tissues, plain, twilled, bleached (aver- age value, 630 francs; duty, general tariff, 35 francs) : Germany Austria Italy Belgium Holland England . Tntal 1 R8fi Austria France Total, 1887 Italy Tissues, croch6, tulle, gauze, muslin broch6 (average value, 1,500 francs; duty, general tariff, 50 francs) : Belgium Holland England British India Total, 1888 Total 1887 2,604 9 Qfl-i Austria Tissues, plain, twilled, of dyed yarns (average value, 760 francs ; duty, gen- eral tariff, 35 francs) : Germanv 72 88 64 23 68 8 32 England Total, 1888 109 352 371 1 5 15 3 ~~24 19 Total, 1887 Blankets, common, without needle- work or trimming (average value, 500 francs; duty, general tariff 12 francs ; conven- tional tariff 4 francs) : Austria ............ ... Italy Belgium France " . ... Holland Italy England Belgium Total, 1888 . Total 1888.... 355 217 Total, 1887 Total. 1887... 234 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Cotton and cotton goods thereof imported into Sivitzerland, etc. — Continued. Whence imported. Quantity. Whence imported. Quantity. Blankets, bleached, dyed, printed, with needle-work or trimming (average value 821.72 francs; duty, general tariff, 50 francs) : Quintals. 196 6 76 10 6 45 339 England Quintals. 8 2 987 943 356 2 54 8 10 430 396 156 10 41 8 6 63 Total 1888 Total 1887 . . . Hosiery, without needle- work (average value, 1,350 francs; duty, general tariff, 50 francs) : Francs Italy England Total, 1888 Austria France Total, 1887 Felt tissues for the manufacture of paper (average value, 675 francs; duty, general tariff, 40 francs) : 213 2 1 Italy England Total 1888 Total, 1887 England Embroidery and lace (average value from 1,475 to 6,000 francs; duty, general tariff, 100 francs) : Germany Total 1888 3 664 5 245 53 8 2 Ribbons and trimmings (average value, 1,200 francs; duty, general tariff, 50 francs ; conventional tariff, 16 francs): Germany •••••- ...... ........ Austria France Italy .... Austria' Belgium France England Italy Total 1888 Belgium . . 284 296 Holland Total 1887 JOHN D. WASHBURN, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Berne, August 27, 1889. TURKEY. CONSTANTINOPLE. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL PRINGLE. I have the honor to inclose a report upon the cotton textiles imported into my consular district. I do not, however, consider the statictics sufficiently trustworthy for publication, although they are the only ones to be obtained. t Quantity and kind imported per annum: 6,016J£ tons; 5,534,338 pieces ; and 9,062,700 meters of all qualities. Weight per yard, varies between 4 to 6 ounces, according to quality. Purchased by commission. Place of manufacture and whence imported : All European countries, and imported from same. Duties charged thereon : 8 per cent. D. LYNCH PRINGLE, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Constantinople, Turkey, August 6, 1889. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 235 UNITED KINGDOM. LONDON. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL NEW. Referring to Department of State circular of May 27, 1889, directing a report to be made on the importation of cotton textiles into this dis- trict, I regret to have to report that I find it is impossible to obtain the particulars required. The value of cotton manufactures imported into London in 1888 was $2,850,790, but no further details can be ascer- tained. I transmit copy of letter received from Mr. R. Griffin, of the board of trade, on this subject. JOHN C. NEW, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSUL ATE -GENERAL, London, August 16, 1889. Mr. Ctiffin to Consul- General New. [Inclosnre in Conaul-General New's report.] BOARD OP TRADE, COMMERCIAL DEPARTMENT, London, S. W., July 6, 1889. SIR : With reference to your letter of the 1st instant, asking for certain information respecting the imports of cotton textiles to London, I am directed by the board of trade to state that they regret that they are not in a position to be of much assistance to you in the matter. The detailed particulars you require are not available from the official returns, and the board can only refer you for information, to the gross value of the imports of cotton manufactures into the port of London, to the figures contained in the volumes of the Annual Statement of the trade of the United Kingdom. Accord- ing to the last issue of this statement, the value of cotton manufactures imported into London from abroad in 1888 was 572,158 pounds. R. GlFFIN. LIVERPOOL. REPORT BY CONSUL SHERMAN. I have to acknowledge the receipt of circular of instructions, dated May 27, 1889, directing consular officers to report upon the cotton tex- tiles imported into their districts, covering points specified. The receipts of cotton goods in this district are so very small, com- paratively, as to make a detailed reply by me to the circular almost, if not quite, unnecessary, and only one of the questions can be directly answered without considerable expense. THOMAS H. SHERMAN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Liverpool, August 27, 1889. 236 COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. LEITH. REPORT BY CONSUL WALLING, OF EDINBURGH. QUANTITY AND KINDS IMPORTED. The customs authorities at Leith, in answer to my inquiries on this subject, inform me that no record is kept of either the quantity or kind of cotton textiles imported into Leith. The value only is recorded. In the " bill of entry " supplied to the custom -house from each vessel arriv- ing the item frequently occurs expressed thus : u Cotton manufactures, unenumerated," and only the number of " cases" or "packages "of these and their total value are given." Such imports are almost always consigned " to order," and the consignee in the course of his sales may distribute the consignment to many merchants or dealers. From the " annual statement of the trade of the United Kingdom for the year 1888, compiled in the custom-house at London from documents collected by that department," I learn that the total value of cotton manufactures imported to Leith in 1888 was £26,137. Neither the quan- tity nor kind of such manufactures is stated. From the same source I find that the total value of cotton manufactures imported in same year to Graugemouth, a port in this district on the Firth of Forth, a few miles west from Leith, was £8,565. The questions of the weight per yard, how purchased, the place of manufacture, and whence imported can not be ascertained. There are no customs duties charged at Leith on imports of cotton textiles. WlLLOUGHBY WALLING, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Edinburgh, August 9, 1889. GIBRALTAR. i REPORT BT CONSUL SPJtAGUE. I have the honor of acknowledging the receipt of your circular, under date of the 27th ultimo, on the subject of the importation of cotton textiles in this district, and beg to state in reply that it is quite impos- sible to obtain here any reliable information as to the quantity and de- scription of the cotton textiles imported yearly in this market, there being no custom-house or any other Government department established in Gibraltar, where any statistics are kept on the subject for affording the required information. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 237 Gibraltar being a free port, no duties are levied upon any description of cotton goods arriving here. I may add, however, that the whole or the greater portion of the im- portations of cotton goods to this market proceed from Manchester and other leading manufacturing centers in Great Britain, which are gen- erally disposed of by two or three merchants and several shop-keepers established here. A considerable quantity of cotton goods also arrives at this port from the same quarters in transit for the Morocco markets, for account and risk of the consignees residing in the towns and sea-ports of that king- dom, who have an understanding direct with parties in England, for the cost of their orders and purchases. HOEATIO J. SPRAG-UE, Consul UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Gibraltar, June 29, 1889. SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA REPORTS FROM THE CONSULS OF THE UNITED STATES ON THE FILE TRADE IN MEXICO, AND IN CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA, IN ANSWER TO A CIRCULAR FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE. ISSUED *ROU THE BUREAU OF STATISTICS, DEPARTMENT OF STATE. ALL REQUESTS FOR THESE REPORTS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE SECBETARY OF STATE. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE, 1300. FILE CIRCULAR. DEPARTMENT OF STATE, Washington, August 28, 1889. To the consuls of the United States in Mexico and in Central and South America. GENTLEMEN : Some of the leading file manufacturers of the United States are desirous of extending their commercial relations to Mexico and to Central and South America, and, to that end, have submitted to the Department the following interrogatories, which you are requested to answer at your earliest convenience : (1) Is there any demand for American files in your districts ? If there is, give par- ticulars ; if there is not, what is the prospect for creating such demand ? (2) Are any files imported into your districts ? Whence and kinds imported. (3) Are files manufactured in your districts ? (4) Give prices at which files are purchased by the wholesale dealers in your dis- tricts, based on the inclosed list, by discount. This request (No. 4), if it can be even approximately correctly answered, will enable the American manufacturers to form a correct estimate of the value to them of the trade, as well as their ability to compete therein with other foreign manufacturers. Give all the necessary information as to tariff and other charges to which the introduction of files into your districts are subject. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant, WILLIAM F. WHARTON, Acting Secretary. 241 ENGLISH vs. AMERICAN FILES.* REPORT BY CONSUL MERR1AM, OF IQUIQUE, CHILL There is no demand for American files in this district, for the reason that dealers find that they can buy files from Sheffield much cheaper. So considerable is the difference in price, as may be seen from the ac- companying comparative table, that one is inclined to believe that the question of quality may be an important factor in favor of the Ameri- can article. This point, however, can not now be determined here, as there is not an American file in the market to enable me to make the coinparision. Still, one thing is certain. While as a rule, speaking of merchandise in general, first-class articles are in demand, and are sold at remunera- tive prices, in some lines of goods, as files, for instance, people have be- come accustomed to pay a certain price for them, and will not pay a higher price for a similar article, which may be better, while the inferior can be obtained. The only way for the American manufacturer to compete with the English in the sale of files in this district, is to furnish them to the deal- ers here at the English prices, even though at the outset they may gain nothing, or even suffer a small loss. If the American file is really su perior to the Sheffield article people will soon find it out and will readily pay a higher price, once accustomed to its use and convinced of its su- periority. The accompanying table shows the comparative prices in Troy, 1ST. Y., and Sheffield, England. On the prices in the Sheffield list, there is at present in this market a discount of 60 and 5 per cent. The duty on all classes of files is 15 cents on 30 cents the kilogram, payable in silver with the surcharge corresponding to the rate of exchange from month to month. J. W. MERRIAM, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Iquique, December 29, 1889. * Constant reference to Sheffield file prices are made throughout these reports. Consul Merriam, however, was the only consul who forwarded a Sheffield price-list. For this reason (for ready reference), as well as for his table comparing American and Sheffield prices, Consul Merriam's report is inserted first in the series. 243 244 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. [Inclosure 1 in Consul Merriam's report.] SHEFFIELD PRICES OF FILES AND RASPS. [Descuento (discount) 60 and 5 per cent.] In consequence of considerable advances both in wages and materials, it was unanimously resolved at a general meeting of file manufacturers, held at the Cutlers' Hall, Sheffield, on the 16th May, 1872, that the following list of prices be adopted by the trade from this date : Flat, half-round, square, round, entering, taper cotter, liorse, shoe, flat, and half-round rasps. Mill saws, one or two square edges, single and double cut. Topping files, single and double, left at point, and safe edges. [Per dozen.] Inches. Bough and bastard. Second cut, fiat and half-round gunstock- ers' and round rasps. Smooth and cabinet flies and rasps. Dead smooth and extra smooth cabinets. 1 to 4 £ s. d. 4 9 £ *. d. 5 6 & s. d. 6 9 £ s. d 10 3 41 6 0 7 6 11 2 5* 5 9 6 9 8 3 12 6 Rl 6 3 7 6 9 0 13 6 6 :::::::":::::::::::::..::..:::::. 7 0 ' 8 3 9 6 14 6 6ft 7 6 8 9 10 6 15 9 7 ":::"::;::::::::::: 8 6 9 9 11 6 17 6 71 9 6 10 9 12 3 18 6 8*::: 10 6 12 0 13 6 100 gl 11 0 12 9 14 6 120 9 12 0 13 6 15 6 136 9* . 13 6 15 3 17 0 156 10 ... 15 0 17 0 19 0 186 lOi 16 6 18 6 106 1 11 0 11*:: 18 0 100 130 1 15 0 11* 100 120 150 1 18 0 12 116 140 166 200 124 130 156 180 220 13 150 170 1 10 0 250 14 1 10 0 1 13 0 1 16 0 2 14 0 15 . 3 16 0 ] 19 0 220 330 16 230 270 2 12 0 3 18 0 17... 2 10 0 2 15 0 330 4 14 0 18 ... 300 350 3 14 0 5 11 0 19 380 3 15 0 440 660 20. 410 490 4 19 0 799 21 4 13 0 510 5 13 0 8 10 0 22 560 5 15 0 680 9 12 0 23 610 6 12 0 760 11 0 0 24 700 7 11 0 860 12 10 0 Extras.— All above 24 inches, 20«. per inch extra. Flat files, double cat on the edge, to advance half ng, bquare cut edges, to advance half inch. er edge and knife flies, to advance 3 inches. . Inuh. Topping, bquare cut edges, to advance half inch. Mill saw, two round edges, advance half inch. Feather ede and kn FILES IX SPANISH AMERICA. 245 Three square hand, ctpialinf/ one xat'c rdt/c. parallel, rotter, pillar, needle, roundoff, bone pottance, round edged flat. Extra thin flat, and flat aiullnyh back half-round. [Per dozen.] Inches. Ito4 Rongh and bastard. £ *. d. 5 3 5 9 6 3 7 0 8 6 9 6 10 6 11 0 12 0 13 6 15 0 16 6 18 0 0 0 1 6 3 0 5 0 8 0 10 0 16 0 230 2 10 0 300 380 410 4 13 0 560 6 1 0 700 7 19 0 Second cut. *. d. 6 0 6 9 7 6 8 3 9 9 10 9 12 0 12 9 13 6 15 3 17 0 18 6 0 0 2 0 4 0 5 6 7 0 10 0 13 0 1 19 0 270 2 15 0 350 3 15 0 490 510 5 15 6 6 12 0 7 11 8 12 Smooth. £ t. d. 7 C 8 3 9 0 9 6 11 12 13 14 15 17 19 1 0 1 3 1 5 166 180 1 10 0 1 13 0 1 16 0 2 0 2 12 0 330 3 14 4 4 4 19 5 13 8 0 9 8 Dead smooth. £, g. d. 11 3 12 6 13 6 14 6 17 6 18 6 1 1 1 1 1 1 11 0 0 2 0 3 6 5 9 8 6 1 15 0 1 18 0 200 220 250 2 10 0 2 14 3 3 3 18 4 14 5 11 7 9 8 10 9 12 0 11 0 0 12 10 0 14 2 0 Extra*.— All above 24 inches, 20*. per inch extra. Pin files and tanged horse rasps, to advance 1 inch. Rouud-off, with points, to advance 1 inch. Xeedle, exceeding breadth of hand files, as equaling cut on both edges. Equaling and cotter files, extra thin, to advance 1 inch. Hand and equaling cnt both edges, or with one double cut edge. Lock, arch, riffler, tum- bler,oval saw files, cant, taper cross, bellied three square. Double tanged mill saw, top- ping, two round edges. [Per dozen.] Inches. Rough and bastard. Second cut Smooth. ' Dead smooth. 1 to 4 £ s. d. 6 3 7 0 7 6 8 6 9 6 10 6 11 0 12 0 13 6 15 0 16 6 18 0 100 116 130 150 170 1 10 0 1 13 0 1 19 0 260 2 15 0 340 3 14 0 470 500 5 14 0 6 11 0 7 10 0 880 £ *. d. 7 6 8 3 8 9 9 9 10 9 12 0 12 9 13 6 15 3 17 0 18 6 100 120 140 156 170 1 10 0 1 13 0 1 16 0 230 2 11 0 300 3 10 0 420 4 15 0 580 630 710 810 920 £ *. d. 9 0 9 6 10 6 11 6 12 3 13 6 14 6 15 6 17 0 19 0 106 139 5 0 6 6 8 0 10 0 13 0 1 16 0 1 19 0 280 2 18 0 370 3 19 0 4 11 0 560 600 6 16 0 7 16 0 920 10 8 0 £ «. d. 13 6 14 6 15 9 17 6 18 0 0 0 2 0 3 6 5 6 8 6 11 0 15 0 18 0 200 220 250 2 10 0 2 14 0 2 19 0 3 10 0 460 520 5 18 0 6 18 0 800 900 10 6 0 11 16 0 13 14 0 15 12 0 5 . 5i 6 '" ::::.::::;:::::::::::::::::: 64 74 8* . .. 84 ? 94 3*: :..::::: 104 S* 114 12 . 121 13 . . . 14 15 .. 16 17 18 19 •JO 21 21. ... 23 24 . Extras.— All above 24 inches 20 ». per inch extra. Hand and equaling with round edges, advance 1 jich ; if double cut, 2 inches. Two-tanged mill saw, two round edges, advance half inch. 246 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. Beat refined cast-steel saw files. [Per dozen.] Inches. Taper saw files. Frame saw flies and gulleting. Blunt, segment saw files, and taper cut to point, sec- ond cut single. Blunt, second cut double, and band saw, second cut single, Second cut single. Second cut double. Smooth single. Second cut single. Second cut double. Ito 3J £ 8. d. 4 0 4 6 5 0 5 6 6 6 7 6 8 6 9 6 10 6 12 0 13 6 15 6 17 6 19 6 140 190 1 14 0 200 £ s. d. 4 9 5 3 6 0 6 6 7 6 8 6 9 6 11 0 12 0 13 6 15 0 17 0 19 6 110 160 1 11 0 1 17 0 230 £ s. d. 5 6 6 0 6 3 7 0 8 0 9 0 10 0 1 0 12 6 14 0 15 6 17 0 19 6 110 160 1 11 0 1 17 0 230 £ g. d. 4 9 5 3 5 9 6 6 7 6 8 6 9 6 10 6 12 0 13 6 14 6 16 0 18 0 100 150 1 10 0 1 16 0 230 £ g. d. 5 9 6 3 6 9 7 6 8 6 9 6 10 6 12 0 13 0 14 6 16 0 17 6 19 6 120 170 1 12 0 1 19 0 260 & g. d. 5 0 5 6 6 6 7 6 8 6 9 6 10 6 12 0 13 6 15 6 17 6 19 6 116 140 190 1 14 0 200 £ s. d. 6 6 7 6 8 6 9 6 10 6 12 0 13 6 15 6 17 6 19 6 116 140 166 190 1 14 0 200 4^ 5 51 6 6i ?"::.: 7i 8 : gi 9 ":::::: gi 10 11 12 13 14 Reaper-knife files. [Net prices per dozen.] Inches. Plain and swaged. Knife shape. Cant shape. Single. Double. Single. Double. Single. Double. 7 *. d. 8 6 9 3 11 6 13 6 *. d. 9 0 10 0 12 9 15 6 g. d. 8 6 9 6 11 9 13 9 *. d. 9 6 10 6 13 3 16 0 s. d. 12 6 13 6 16 3 19 0 £ g. d. 13 6 14 9 17 i 113 8. ... 9 10 Extras.— Taper saw files, double cut smooth, to advance half inch on single smooth. Frame equal- ing saw files, 3 inches on frame saw price. Extras. Rubbers : s. d. Rough and bastard.., ,.._ .....per pound.. 1 3 Second cut do 1 5 Smooth do I 1 7 Rough and bastard : I pouod rubber ....per pound.. 1 8 2.pound rubber do 1 5 3poundrubber do 1 4 Second cut : 1 pound rubber perpound.. 1 9 2poundrubber do 1 6 3 pound rubber do 1 5 Smooth : 1 pound rubber perpound.. 1 10 2 pound rubber do 1 7 3 pound rubber ...do... 1 6 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. 247 Strong flat tiles and half-thicks : Rough and bastard per pound.. 1 5 Secondcut do 1 7 Smooth do..^. 1 9 Three-square Id. per pound, extra to flat files ; horse mouth rasps, 5«. each ; bread r;> inches; s;nldle-tree rasps, to advance 3 inches; all parallel files to advance 1 inch on their iv-iM'ctive descriptions; all quarter inches, the price of the next size above. Round, half-round, and cross files, double cut, second cut, to advance half an inch; round double cut smooth, to advance 1 inch ; flat, three-square, and hand files, rough and middle cut above 14 inches, 6d. per dozen extra to bastard cut. New cut files to ad- vance 1 inch. TROY PRICE LIST OF FILES AND RASPS. [Inclosure 2 in Consul Merriam's report.] Inch. Mill and round. Flat and square. Bastard. Second cut. Smooth. Bastard. Second cut. Smooth. 4 $1.80 2.00 2.25 2.55 2.90 3.30 3.80 4,50 5.40 6.50 7.80 9.30 11.00 12.90 15.10 17.60 20.40 $2.15 2.40 2.65 3.00 3.40 3.85 4.40 5.20 6.20 7.45 8.90 10.60 12.50 14.60 16.90 19.70 22.85 $2.40 2.65 2.95 3.30 3.70 4.20 4.80 5.65 6.75 8.05 9.65 11.45 13.40 15.60 18.10 21.10 24.50 $2.00 2.20 2.50 2.90 3.40 4.00 4.70 5.60 6.70 8. CO 9.50 11.20 13.10 15.25 17.65 20.30 23.20 $2.40 2.60 2.95 3.40 4.00 4.70 5.45 6.50 7.70 9.15 10.90 12.75 14.85 17. 25 19.75 22.75 26.00 $2.65 2.90 3.25 3.75 4.35 5.10 5.90 7.05 8.40 10.00 11.80 13.75 16.00 18.45 21.20 24.35 27.85 5. 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 . ... 16 17 18 19 20 Extras.— Mfll double cut, advance 1 inch. Mill narrow points, advance 1 inch. Cross- cut saw (blunt), advance 2 inches. Extras— Cant blunt (dou- ble cut), advance 2 inches. 248 FILES IV SPANISH AMERICA. TROY PRICE LIST OF FILES AND RASPS — Continued. Inch. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14 15. 16. 17. 18.. 19.. 20.. Hand, warding, and pillar. Bastard. $2.25 2.50 2.80 3.20 3.70 4.35 5.20 6.30 7.50 8.90 10.50 12.30 14. 30 16.60 19.20 22.10 25.30 Second cut. $2.70 3.00 3.30 3.75 4.35 5 10 6.00 7.30 8.60 10.20 12.00 14.00 16.20 18.75 21.50 24.75 28.35 Smooth. $3.00 3.30 3.65 4.15 4.75 5.55 6.55 7.95 9.40 11.00 13.00 15.10 17.50 20.10 23.00 26.50 30.35 Half-round and three-square. Bastard. $2.50 2.80 3.20 3.70 4.30 5.00 5.80 6.70 7.80 9.10 10.60 12.40 14.50 16.90 19.60 22.60 26.00 Second cut. $3.00 3.35 3.80 4.35 5.00 5.85 6.75 7.75 9.00 10.40 12.10 14.15 16.50 19.10 22.00 25.30 29.10 Smooth. $3.30 3.70 4.15 4.80 5.50 6.40 7.30 8.45 9.75 11.25 13.10 15.25 17.70 20.50 23.50 27.10 31.20 Extras.— Ginsaw (single <^ut), take bastard price ; slot- ting (blunt), advance 2 in- ches. Extras.— Knife, advance 1 inch ; high back half-round (blunt), advance 2 inches; cross (blunt), advance 2 in- ches; feather edge (blunt), advance 2 inches. Description. Tapers, single cut Tapers, double cut Slim tapers, single cut Slim tapers, double cut Piteaw blnnt, single cut Hooktooth blunt, single cut 1 1. 10 1. 1.601. 1.201. 1. 8011. 101 . 20 1. 40 1. 70 2. 00 2. 40 3. 00 3. 80 4. 60 5. 70 7 .752.002.402 . 30 1. 45J1. 70;i. 90 2. 10 2. 50 3. 00 3. 70 4. 50 5. . 90|2. 10 2. 40 2. 60 2. 85 3. 30 3. 90 4. 70 5. 60 6. 75 2. 10 2. 10 2. 20 2. 30 2. 50 2. 80 3. 20 3. 70 4. 30 5. 00 5. 80 6 70 3.603.904.405.106.007.10 9. 00 11. 00 13. 20 75 3. 25 4. 00 4. 95 5. 90 7. 10 8. 80 10. 80 12. 90 15. 20 8.3010.00 9.7511.50 6.80 8.20 7.70 8.40 Extras.— Bandsaw, heavy, blunt, take taper double cut price. Bandsaw, light, blunt, take slim tap*.- r double cut price ; taper points same price. Cant saw, blunt, single cut ; round gulleting, blunt, single cut, take pitsaw price. Round off, blunt, single cut, take hooktooth price. Tapers, pointed at both ends (without handles), double the price of slim tapers of half their length. Description. 4 3 s A Q .9 tA f 00 1 S | o 11-inch. 12-inch. 13-inch. A 9 a 3 | 5 ,C a s 4 a tA 1 06 Horse rasps : Plain 6.50 7.20 9.00 8.75 11.20 8.75 8.00 9.10 7.50 8.30 10.25 10.40 13.00 10.40 9.10 10. 30 9.00 10.00 12.00 12.30 15.00 12.30 10.30 11.60 10.70 11.80 14.00 14.50 17.20 14.50 11.60 12.70 14.00 16.50 16.90 19.60 16.90 13.00 15.00 16.50 19.50 19.60 22.20 19.60 17.60 19.40 23.00 22.50 25.00 22.50 20.50 22. 50 ••%•• 23.70 26.00 Beveled and three-quarters rasp Tanged Wood rasps : Half-round and flat 4.20 6.00 4.20 4.60 5.30 5.00 7.00 5.00 5.30 6.10 6.10 8.20 6.10 6.10 7.00 7.30 9.60 7.30 7.00 8.00 Cabinet : Rasps Files Shoe rasps: Half-round and flat... Oval Extras.— File rasps, flat and half-round, take flat and half-round wood rasp price. "Wood files, flat and halt-round, take flat and half-round bastard price. Last maker's rasps, one inch advance on cabi- net rasp price. Extras (general"). One round edge, advance 7£ per cent., and two round edges, 15 per cent, on respec- tive kinds aud cuts. Blunt files, not specified, advance one inch on respective kinds and cuts. Dead-smooth, double the price of bastard cut. Equalings (bellied), FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. 249 advance two inches on respective kinds and cut. Sizes below 4 inches, not extended, take 4-inch price; one-half inches not specified, take next higher full-inch price. Rough, coarse, union cut, brass, or other than regular cuKs (not specified), made upon regu- lar or standard shaped blanks, advance one inch 011 respective kinds and cuts. Single or float cut (not specified), on regular shapes, take double cut price. Irregular goods. — All lengths above those listed, and files varying from standard sizes, to be classed as irregular, and subject to special prices. [Inclosure 3 in Consul Merriam's report.] Sheffield vs. Troy price*. MILL AND ROUND. Inch. Bastard. Second cut. Smooth. Troy. Sheffield. Troy. Sheffield. Troy. Sheffield. 4 $1.80 2.00 2.25 2.55 2.90 3.30 3.80 4.50 5.40 6.50 7.80 9.30 11.00 12.90 15.10 • 17.60 20.40 $1.15 1.35 1.70 2.06 2.55 2.92 3.65 4.38 5.23 6.08 7.30 8.76 10.46 12.16 14.60 16.54 19.71 $2.15 2.40 2.65 3.00 3.40 3.85 4.40 5.20 6.20 7.45 8.90 10.60 12.50 14.60 16.90 19.70 22.85 $1.33 1.64 2.00 2.37 2.92 3.28 4.13 4.87 5.84 6.57 a 03 9.49 11.43 13.38 15.81 18.25 21.66 $2.40 2.65 2.95 3.30 3.70 4.20 4.80 5.65 6.75 8.05 9.65 11.45 13.40 15.60 18.10 21.10 24.50 $1.64 2.00 2.31 2.79 3.28 3.77 4.62 5.60 6.45 7.30 8.76 10.21 12.65 15.33 18.00 20.44 24.09 5 6 7 8 9 . . . 10 11 .. 12 13 14... 15 16 17 18 19 20 FLAT AND SQUARE. 4 $2.00 $1.15 $2.40 $1.33 $2. 65 $1.64 5 2.20 1.35 2 60 1.64 2 90 2 00 6 2.50 1.70 2.95 2. WO 3.25 2.31 7 2.90 2.06 3.40 2.37 3.75 2.79 g 3.40 2.55 4.00 2.92 4.35 3.28 y 4. tO 2.92 4.70 3.28 5.10 3.77 10 4.70 3 65 5.45 4.13 5.90 4.62 11 5.60 4.38 6.50 4.87 7.05 5.60 12 6.70 5.23 7.70 5.84 8.40 6.45 13 8.00 6.08 9.15 6.57 10.00 7.30 14 9.50 7.30 10.90 8.03 11.80 8.76 15 11.20 8.76 12.75 9.49 13.75 10.21 16 . . 13.10 10.46 14.85 11.43 16.00 12.65 17 15 25 12.16 17.25 13.38 18.45 15.33 18 ... 17.65 14.60 19.75 15.81 21.20 18.00 19 20 30 16.54 22.75 18.25 24.35 20.44 •JO 23.20 19.71 26.00 21.66 27.85 24.09 HAND AND PILLAR 4 $2. 25 $1.27 $2.70 $1.46 $3.00 $1.82 5 2.50 1.52 3.00 2.19 3.30 2.19 6 2.80 2.06 3.30 2.37 3.65 2.79 7 3.20 2.5o 3.75 2.92 4.15 3.28 8 . ... 3.70 2.92 4.35 3.28 4.75 3.77 9 4.35 3.65 5.10 4.13 5.55 4.62 10 5.20 4.38 6.00 4.87 6.55 5.60 11 . 6.30 5.23 7.30 5.84 7.95 6.45 12 7 50 6.08 8.60 6.61 9.40 7.30 13 8.90 7.30 10.20 8.03 11.00 8.76 14 10.50 8.76 12.00 9.49 13.00 10.21 15 . . 12.30 10.46 14.00 11.43 15.10 12.65 16 14.30 12.16 16.20 13.38 17.50 15.33 17 16.60 14.60 18.75 15.81 20.10 18.00 18 19. 20 16.54 21.50 18.25 23.00 20.44 19 22.10 1§.71 24.75 21.66 26.50 24.09 20 25.30 22.63 28.35 24.57 30.35 27.49 250 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. MEXICO. LA PAZ. REPORT BY CONSUL VIOSOA. Ill acknowledgment of receipt of circular dated August 28, 1889, wherein the Department of State, for the benefit of the file manufact- urers of the United States, desires to be informed as per interrogatories within contained of the extent of the demand for American files, etc., I have the honor, in obedience with the said instructions, to say that the demand for files is here limited to insignificance ; the small supply re- quired for this market is imported from San Francisco. No industry in the form of iron and wood manufacture has as yet found its way into this country. Mining is also very limited ; therefore it makes it impossible to give a formal reply to the questions contained in the aforesaid interrogatories. JAS. YIOSCA, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, La Paz, Mexico, October 26, 1889. MAZATLAN. REPORT OF CONSUL KELTON. (1) There is some demand for American files in this district. They are considered superior to English files but are said to cost more. (2) Files are imported from England, Germany, and the United States. The total value of the importations does not exceed $1,500 per annum. (3) No files are manufactured in this district. (4) I am informed that the prices of files imported from England and Germany are 60 and 10 per cent, lower than the prices quoted in the Troy list inclosed with the circular. EDWARD G. KELTON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Mazatlan, Mexico, October 1, 1889. PIEDRAS NEGRAS. REPORT BY CONSUL FECHET. The demand for American files in this district is very small, being lim- ited to the machine-shops of the Mexican International Railway. The few mining companies that employ machinery use a small number of files ; as more work shops are erected the demand for files will increase. FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. 251 As a rule, the nationality of the owners of industrial plants in Mexico, or that of the manager in charge locally, generally will determine in what market foreign supplies are purchased. At present more English files are sold to Mexico than American. Files are imported into this dis- trict for railway use only. Files are not manufactured in this district. The Mexican International Railway use American files of all kinds in their shops here. Price is that of the " American Association List," less 50 per cent. off. The tariff on files at the Mexican customs is 10 cents per kilogram, or about 4£ cents per pound. EUGENE O. FECHET, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Piedras Negras, September 130, 1889. TUXPAN. REPORT BY CONSUL DRAYTON. In answer to file circular dated August 28, 1889, 1 state as follows: (1) There is very little demand here for files, as there are very few machines. (2) Files are principally imported from the United States, some from England, which are cheaper than those from the United States. (3) Files are not manufactured here. (4) The prices at which files are purchased by dealers is according to the valuation which wholesale dealers in the United States place upon them, and can not be correctly stated here. The duties on same are 10 cents per kilogram, gross weight, being considered a tool for mechanical purposes. All other charges are according to freights and lighterage, if any, and vary from three-quarters of a cent to 1 cent per pound, gross, as may be the case. JOHN DRAYTON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Tuxpan, Mexico, October 4, 1889. CENTRAL AMERICA. NICARAGUA. MANAGUA. REPORT BY CONSUL WILLS. Iii response to " file circular," dated August 28, 1889, 1 give the fol- lowing answers : (1) There are six saw-mills in Nicaragua, all brought from the United States. These mills use American files. 252 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. (2) The files imported by the merchants are very few. They come mostly from England, a few from Germany. The kinds are triangular, in lengths from 3 to 5 inches. Mill and blacksmith files are not salable, no horse-shoeing being done here. (3) No files are manufactured in this country. (4) Assorted triangular files, in lengths 3, 3J, 4, 4J, 5, and 5J inches, cost $3 for 6 dozen in England. A leading merchant of Managua told me he bought in England, four years ago, 4 dozen 8-inch mill files, costing $5. He has 2 dozen still on hand. The tariff on files is 5 cents (American gold, 3£) a pound, gross weight, including the package in which they are brought. OH AS. H. WILLS, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Managua, February 4, 1890, SOUTH AMERICA. ARGENTINE REPUBLIC. REPORT BY CONSUL BAKER, OF BUENOS AYRES. I am in receipt of the circular of the Department of State of the 25th of August last, stating that some of the file manufacturers of the United States are desirous of extending their trade to South America ; and, to that end, have submitted certain interrogatories, which I am requested to answer. (1) There is no call for American files in the Argentine Republic, for the reason, perhaps, that little if anything is known in regard to them. If, however, they were properly introduced, and they should meet the views of the market, it is not improbable that a demand could be created for them. (2) Files are imported into this country of almost every variety, and they come mostly from France, Germany, and England. (3) No files are manufactured in the Argentine Republic. (4) It is somewhat difficult to get the price of purchase at wh^ch im- porters or wholesale dealers are supplied by manufacturers, for the rea- son that they do not care to reveal the secrets of their trade to outsiders. By inquiry, however, I learn that wholesale dealers, when gold was at 50 per cent, premium, sold three-cornered files, sizes 3 to 5 inches, at 90 cents to $1.20, Argentine paper currency, per dozen, according to brand. To-day, with gold at 112 per cent, premium, they are selling them at $1.50 to $2, Argentine paper currency, per dozen. To-day, with gold as I have said at 112 per cent, premium, wholesale dealers are selling flat, half-round, and square files of all kinds, coarse cuts, at from 5 to 6 cents per inch, Argentine paper currency, per FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. 253 dozen, and iiiie cute at from 6 to 8 cents per inch, Argentine paper cur- rency, per dozen. (5) The duty on tiles is 25 per cent, on the value ; and for custom- house purposes the official value on all sizes and classes of files is fixed at 50 cents per kilogram. To reduce this duty to the paper currency the government adds 15 per cent, to the amount. E. L. BAKER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Buenos Ayres, November 15, 1889. BRAZIL. BAHIA. REPORT BY CONSUL BURKE. I have the honor to submit the following answers to questions con- tained in the " File circular," dated August 28th, and received at this consulate October 9. I would say, while the circular of the Troy file manufacturers that accompanied the "File circular," with its "price-list of files and rasps," is well enough to forward to the consul, it would be much better if the Troy manufacturers would inform the consul at the same time whether the prices mentioned in the list are subject to any discount, and if so, to how much or what ? While the consul is seek- ing information from the dealers, the dealers in turn would like infor- mation from the consul. But the latter, as in this case, when asked if the prices in the circular are subject to a discount, could reply, "I don't know exactly, but suppose so." It is embarrassing for the consul and does not aid him in obtaining the information he seeks, when he displays so much ignorance of a subject about which the manufacturers should thoroughly post him. Manufacturers ought to understand that it is the consul's business not only to obtain the information they desire, but to impart informa- tion to the dealer in the article or articles about which inquiries are be- ing made. And if such information regarding styles, qualities, prices, etc., of certain articles is not given to the dealer when asked, why, he will sim- ply conclude the consul does not know his business ; or, knowing it, with- holds the information sought by him, and is acting as a sort of detect- ive from some motive for a certain manufacturing concern. Then, I say, every manufacturer desiring information in regard to his line of manufactures, in sending questions to be answered, inquiries to be made, etc., should, in a private letter, if not otherwise, thoroughly 254 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. iiiform the consul about the prices, qualities, kinds, discounts, etc., of the manufactures he may desire to introduce. (1) There is no demand for American files. In the three principal hardware stores in the city not an American file could be found. (2) The only prospect for creating a demand is to have American manu- facturers deliver as good a quality, and perhaps it would be necessary now to deliver a better quality of the articles at the same or at a less price to the dealers than they pay in England, where the most of that class of articles is now purchased. When the Bahia purchaser is per- fectly satisfied with the manufacturers from whom he purchases, as one of the parties said to me, better inducements must be offered from other manufacturers in order to cause him to change. Files are imported into this district principally from Sheffield. All kinds that are manu- factured, are imported. (3) Piles are not manufactured in this district. (4) I give herewith as taken from the bill forwarded from Shef- field to one of the purchasers in this city the following prices of files and rasps corresponding to some mentioned in the price-list of the Troy manufacturers : Kind and size. Cost per dozen. Kind and size. Cost per dozen. Single cut, steel taper saw files : 3-inch -- £ *. d. 4 0 Frame saw files and gullet ing (second cut singles) — Continued. £ «. d. 31 jjHjji 4 0 5-inch 6 6 4 inch 4 6 6-inch 8 6 4%-inch 5 0 250 5 6 Frame saw files and gulleting (second 7 6 cat double) • 200 5 9 6 3 4 9 5-inch . ..... 7 « 5 3 9 6 •l^inch 6 0 2 10 0 6 6 Rough and bastard: 8 6 ' 4-inch 6 3 230 7 0 7 6 4 9 8 6 5 inch 5 9 6-inch 9 8 5Mnch 6 3 8 15 0 7 0 Second cat: Up to 24-inch 700 7 6 44-inch 9 3 1 to 4 inch 6 9 5-inch 8 9 4J-inch 7 6 5^-inch 9 9 5-inch 8 3 6-inch ... .......... 10 9 6-inch 9 6 *9 3 4 7-inch 11 6 Smooth : 8 10 0 4-inoh 9 0 4i-inch . 9 6 5-inch 10 6 1 to 4 inch 10 3 oj-inch . 11 6 4i-inch 11 3 6-inch 12 3 5-inch 12 6 Up to 24-inch '. 10 13 4 14 6 Dead smooth : 7-inch 17 6 13 6 Up to 24-inch 12 10 0 44-inch 14 6 5- inch 15 9 5jj-inch '. 17 6 4 9 6-inch 18 6 4-inch 5 3 Up to 24-inch 15 10 0 4^-inch 5 9 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. 255 Every one of the above prices is subject to a discount that now is and for some time bas been i>'2.[ per cent. Any and every article manufactured under the foregoing specified list at Sheffield has a fixed price as specified above. The dealer here must make the best terms possible with the Sheffield dealer. It is need- less to go through the entire list in the Troy circular. There are the prices lor the above articles and a proportional price runs through the entire list of this class of goods manufactured in Sheffield. In fact, -the Sheffield manufacturers formed an organization some years ago, fixed their prices, and have not deviated from those established prices since, — so I am informed. I have no doubt the Troy File Works Company can obtain on appli- cation to any Sheffield manufacturer a price-list of all articles manufact- ured by them.* To this price list, I am informed, the manufacturers adhere. As far as I can learn, the purchasers here pay cash on receipt of goods, receiving as before stated a discount that has often reached 62.} per cent. The rate of discount varies, of course, with the demand for the arti- cles. There are three large hardware houses in the city ; one English, selling on its own account and on commission also, and two Brazilian houses doing business in the same way, I believe. The present rate of duty on all files and rasps is 500 reis, or say 25 cents per kilogram. It is probable on or about January 1 proximo, the present tariff schedule will be revived. Whether the duty as it now stands on these articles will undergo a revision is as yet unknown. The other charges lor discharging, employment of lighters, etc., are more or less the same as paid to similar labor in the United States. DAVID N. BURKE, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Bahia, December 9, 1889. PERNAMBUCO. REPORT BY CONSUL BORSTEL. For the following information, in answer to the file circular, I am indebted to Mr. William Halliday, the principal of the largest wholesale iron-mongers in this city. Mr. Halliday informed me that if this matter was pushed by a competent salesman he had no doubt but sales of American files could be made here. * The Sheffield price-list, was transmitted by Consul Mercian, and is printed, page 244. 758A 2 256 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. (1) There is no demand for American files in our market, but with much perseverance and efforts they might be introduced if at prices to compete with English and German manufacturers. (2) Files sold in this market are generally English and German makes, of sizes and shapes as noted at end. (3) No files are manufactured in this province. (4) The following are the current prices in wholesale stores, subject to -14 per cent, discount in thirty days. Quotations for first-class English files. [Prices per dozen.] Half Size. Round. Flat and square. round and three Wood rasps. Tapers. square. 3-inch $0 90 1.00 4-iiich .................... 1 10 4 J-inch 1 20 1 35 $1.65 $1.65 $1 65 $1 65 2 00 1.80 1.80 1.80 1.80 2.75 2 50 2 50 2 50 2 50 3 00 9-inch 3.50 3 50 3.50 3 50 6 50 6 50 6 50 6 50 12-inch . - 8.50 8 50 8 50 8 50 12.00 12.00 12. 00 12.00 16-inch 15 00 15 00 15 00 15 00 Quotations for common German files. [Prices per dozen.] Size. Round. Flat and square. Half round and three square. Wood rasps. Tapers. 3-inch - -- $0 55 0.75 0 85 1.00 $1 00 $1 00 $1 00 1 10 $1.30 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.30 1 50 1 40 1 40 1 40 1 50 8-inch . .................. 1.75 1 60 1.60 1.60 1.95 9-inch 2 45 1 90 1 90 1 90 10-inch . . 3 55 2 40 2 40 2 40 2 45 12-inch 5.50 3.50 3.50 3.50 14 inch 6 60 5 40 5 40 5 40 16-inch 8.00 7.50 7.50 7.50 The only charges to which files are subject are 30 cents per kilogram duties in custom-house. H. CHRISTIAN BORSTEL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Pernambuco, October 15, 1889. FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. 257 RIO DE JANEIRO. REPORT BY CONSUL- GENERAL DOCKERY. (1) There is no demand for American files. (2) Files are imported from England and Germany. (3) Files are not manufactured here. (4) I can not obtain much information in regard to your fourth ques- tion. A short time ago the leading importers here attempted to intro* duce American tiles for Henry Diston & Sons, of the Keystone works. It was asserted that American files were as good or better than others, but prices were too high. The trade here demands cheap files, even if of inferior quality. There is a general complaint that American manu- facturers will not make goods suitable to this market. The Troy price-list of files is very much above prices paid in Eng- land and Germany. This company must make a large reduction, even if they make files of inferior quality, before they can sell here. O. H. DOCKERY, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, November 5, 1889. RIO GRANDE DO SUL. REPORT BY CONSUL BENNINGTON. As the only industry of this country of which it is worth while to speak is grazing, the demand for files of any kind or origin is naturally very limited, and unless there should occur great changes in the in- auguration of manufacturing industries the present demand will not soon be increased. By reference to the records of foreign imports for the civil year 1888, custom-house of Eio Grande do Sul, one box of files only appears to have been despatched ; the number or kind of files it contained is not given. The railway machine-shops, Southern Brazilian. Eio Grande and Bagd line, a small foundry and machine repair shop in this city3 a small government arsenal, and a foundry and machine-shop in Porto Alegre, all quite small in their way, are the only establishments of the kind in this province so far as can be ascertained. The railway shops use English files, furnished direct from England by the company which owns and controls the road. American files are unknown. All importations in this line are from England and Germany. 258 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. I give the following as the wholesale prices of English files, by the dozen here, according to the best obtainable information. What the importers pay for their files in England I am unable to say : Size. Half round, bastard. Flat bastard. Tapers, saw flies. $0 76 $0.97 $0.97 .87 4^-inch 98 1.19 1.19 1 08 Si-inch. - .... . .. .. ...... 1 25 1.41 1 41 1.46 7-inch 1 78 1 78 2 08 2 08 The foregoing prices are subject to a discount of 10 per cent. I ap- plied to a German importing hardware establishment in this city for information respecting prices, but was informed that they imported no German files, but that German files ranged from 10 to 15 per cent, cheaper than English manufacture. By the special tariff for this province the duty on files is 27 cents per kilogram and the official value, according to a raz&o of 48 per cent., is 1.020 reis, or about 55 cents ; the storage, according to this rate of razao on each kilogram, will be one-half of 1 per cent, of the official value for the first month, which must be paid if goods do not remain in the custom-house one hour. •. The prices and tariff referred to are based upon a rate of 54 cents United States gold to 1,000 reis Brazilian currency, the ruling sight rate of exchange on London this date. LEBBEUS G. BENNINGTON, Consul UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Rio Grande do 8ul, November 6, 1889. CHILI. COQUIMBO. REPORT BY CONSUL GRIJSRSON. It is impossible to give the amount of files imported here, as all iron articles are simply described as iron goods, and when dispatched from the custom-house are weighed and valued at 30 cents per kilogram, the duty being 15 per cent, on this quantity with a recargo on account of exchange of 37 per cent., which is diminishing 1 per cent, monthly. J. GRIERSON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Coquimlo, November 14, 1889. FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. 259 TALCAHUANO. REPORT BY CONSUL VAN INGEN. The importation of files into this consular district is very limited, and there is not sufficient business done in that article in this market to in- terest American exporters. The trade is so small that it would be very difficult to give the information required by the circular. I have no doubt the Valparaiso consulate, which is more of a center in the hardware business, will forward with much greater facility the requisite in formation, and that will apply to the whole country. J. F. VAN INGKEN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Talcahuano, October 29, 1889. DUTCH GUIANA. REPORT BY CONSUL BROWNE. There are no American files in use in this colony at the present time. A demand for such may be created by the American manufacturers forwarding their illustrated price-lists and sample-cards to the prin- cipal hardware dealers in this colony, P. A. Bruggemanu, L. C. Leef- maus, J. de la Parra, and Beelfs Bros. The following is a list of the different kinds of files in use in this colony, imported from England and Germany : Taper saw files, 3 to 6 inch ; four square bastard file, 8 to 14 inch ; flat bastard file, 8 to 18 inch ; flat file, second cut, 8 to 18 inch ; flat file, smooth, 8 to 18 inch; flat file, dead-smooth, 8 to 18 inch; half-round bastard file, 8 to 20 inch; second cut, smooth, 8 to 20 inch ; dead-smooth, round bastard file, 8 to 10 inch; second cut, smooth, dead-smooth, half bastard equaling file, smooth and bastard; knife-files, smooth and bastard; rasp-files; shoe-makers' files; wood-rasps; cabinet files; taper saw files, 3 to 6 inch ; frame saw files 6 to 7 inch. These are the files mostly in use in this colony, while there is little demand for the following : Square blunt file, 4 to 6 inch ; entering file, smooth and bastard, 8-inch ; taper lopping file, 6 to 12 inch ; topping file, 12-inch ; mill saw file, 8 to 16 inch ; needle file, 8 to 16 inch ; round-off tile, 8 to 16 inch. Files are not manufactured in this colony. 260 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. The prices at which, files are purchased by wholesale dealers in this colony are very varying, German files being generally cheaper than English. The following is an approximate list of prices per dozen for files most in use in this colony : Size. Taper saw flies. Frame saw flies. Knife file, smooth. Half round, bastard. Half round, smooth. 3-inch s, d, 4 0 s. d. *. d. a. d, *. d. 4-inch 4 6 5-inch .... 5 6 (J-inch 7 6 8 6 15 6 1 0 9 6 7-inch 10 8 19 6 8 6 10 6 8-inch 23 0 10 6 13 fr 10-inch 12 6 16 6 Discount 57J per cent. Files imported in this colony are subject to an ad valorem duty of 10 per cent. THOMAS BROWNE, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Paramaribo, October 16, 1889. PERU. CALLAO. REPORT BY CONSUL BRENT. In reply to your inquiry concerning files, dated August 28 last, I have to state that no such articles are manufactured in this consular district. I can recommend Messrs. Humphreys & Co. and Evanisto Barrios, of Lima, as reliable representatives for all American manufacturers. * Let- ters to them, directed to my care, will be safely delivered. Files dispatched in the custom-house here are valued at 2 sols per dozen (1 sol equals 68 cents American) and 40 per cent, duties on the same. H. M. BRENT, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Callao, October 10, 1889. PILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. 261 REPUBLIC OF COLOMBIA. BARRANQUILLA. REPORT BY VICE-CONSUL WHELPLEY. Any community within the United States or Canada, of 3,000 inhabi- tants, would use more files in one year than this consular district, say of 50,000 inhabitants, would use in two. In the United States, in city or country, the merchant, mechanic, farmer, artisan, or citizen of any grade, would consider his household equipment incomplete without his kit of tools, among which the file ranks as one of the most important. Mechanical ability has been very sparsely distributed in this country. Comparatively speaking, there are no agricultural tools or machinery in use, no constructive mechanics, coppersmiths, lock-smiths, brass- fitters, farriers, gas-fitters, plumbers ; no makers of cutlery, fire-arms or labor- saving devices. Every article of iron, steel, copper, or brass must be imported. Outside of the towns, among the gente of the country (the bogas, foresters, herdsmen, etc., that comprise four-fifths of the population), the only use for a file may be to be driven into one of the posts of the ranch as a peg ; or, if a flat file, to be converted into a knife blade at the nearest native smithy. The two steam- boat companies navigating the Magdalen a Kiver im- port their own files from England, and being under English manage- ment are unwilling to concede any merit whatever to American tools. The company under German management seems to entertain the same idea relative to the superiority of German files. I am indebted to Mr. Oswald Berne, the largest dealer in tools, hard- ware, and house-furnishing implements in Colombia, for the following data in regard to the trade in files. His sales, of all sizes, amount to from 4 to 6 dozen a year. He orders 2 dozen of each size at a time as his stock diminishes. He has remnants of stock upon his shelves ordered in 1883. He called my attention to a letter from a New York house in regard to some American files shipped to him some months ago, urging the sale at one-third reduction from the original invoice prices, which would still be 12 per cent, higher than English files of the same grade. He gets part of his file stock from Germany, at the following prices : 8 marks * per dozen for 12-inch flat ; 12 marks per dozen for 14-inch Hat. Discount, 25 per cent. English prices are : 21s. Qd. per dozen for 12-inch flat; 30*. per dozen for 14-inch flat ; 33«. per dozen, second cut, 14-inch flat; 43*. per dozen for 16-inch flat. Discount, 55 per cent. The 12 and 14 inch are the only size« called for, and are quoted to illustrate prices in comparison with the Troy company's list. • 1 mark = 23.8 cents. 262 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. Most of the other different styles and u extras" are unknown and un- called for, with the exception of the 4-inch, and more rarely the 6-inch triangular. Rasps are seldom called for, except from the mountainous regions of the interior, where horses are shod; but local sales do not amount to a dozen a year. Probably 10 dozen a year of all kinds would be a liberal estimate of sales by the three or four traders in this district. I submit the inclosed memorandum, marked A, as compiled from the books of M. Berne, under his direction. S. M. WHELPLEY, Vice-Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Barranquilla, October 7, 1889. German files. iMarks per dozen, j Size. Triangular, square, flat, round, and half-round. Shoe rasps. Horse rasps. * First quality. g ^ ! • s® Second quality, j ~l"«.lir First quality. Second quality. Extra quality. 1 1 cS M aJ a «H 1 i 0 H \ PR s «3 ^ ,q 1 o 3 £ "g C3 1 1 |M 13 A 2 § 4-inch . 5-incli . 6-inch . . 7-inch . 8-inch . . 9-inch . . 10-inch . . 11-inch . . 12-inch . . 13-inch . . 14- inch . . 15-iuch .. . 16-inch . . 1.65 2.20 2.65 3.25 4.00 4.75 5.80 7. 25 8.75 10.50 12. 7? 15. 00 18.00 2.20 2.65 3.25 4.00 4.75 5.80 7.00 8.60 10.40 12. 50 15.00 18.00 21.50 2.40 3.00 3.85 4.60 5.60 6.75 8.45 10. 25 12. 25 14.75 17.50 21. 00 25.00 1.35 1.75 2.25 2.60 3.10 4.00 5.15 6.15 7.30 8.80 10. 25 12.00 13.50 1.85 2.15 2.75 3.25 4.00 4.90 5.70 0.90 8.00 10.10 12. 25 14.50 16.50 2.10 2.60 3.20 4.00 4.65 5.60 6.90 8.10 0.60 11.50 13.50 16.00 19.00 1.80 2.35 2.95 3.70 4.50 5.35 6.90 8.40 10.25 12.50 15.00 18.00 22.00 2.30 2.90 3.70 4.40 5.40 6.50 8.00 9.85 12.00 14.75 18.00 21.50 20.00 2.65 3.40 4.40 5.20 6.40 7.65 9.50 11.50 13.75 17.00 20.50 25,00 30.00 7. 00 to 8.50 8. 50 to 10. 00 10. 00 to 12. 00 12.00 8.00 15.00 9.00 17.00 19.50 23.00 18.00 11.00 24.00 * Second quality, marks 1. 20 per kilogram, all sizes. Discount 25 and 4 per cent. English files. [Per dozen.] t Per gross. Size. C.S. pit saw. Round bastard. Flat bas- tard. Square bastard. Half- round bastard. Half- round rasps. Flat rasps. Trian- gular saw files. 4-inch s. d. s. d. *. d. *. d. s. d. 9. d. *. d. *. d. 4 6 4^-inch 5 0 6-inch . . 8 6 7 0 1 0 8 inch 10 6 10 6 10 6 10 6 10-inch. 15 0 15 0 15 0 15 0 15 0 15 0 12-inch 21 6 21 6 21 6 21 6 14-inch 30 0 30 0 16 inch 43 0 Duty on files, 30 cents per kilogram. FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. 263 COLON. REPORT RY CONSUL VIFQUAIN. (1) There is no demand now for files or anything else; the few deal- ers have enough of a supply to do them for a long time, all industries being virtually dead since the work on the canal has stopped. A file is not a luxury, it is not an ornament, it is in fact a tool, and there is only a demand for tools where there is industry. At the pres- ent time there is no such a thing as industry here. But I dare say that if the Panama Canal resumes work the demand for files will be greatly enhanced. (2} Files are not imported into this district now. In the good days of the canal there were probably 5 tons of files per annum imported at this place for distribution along the line of the canal, and for the use of the industries necessary to supply the works with the necessary material, such as timber for bridges, fences, ties for railroads, etc. The kind imported was nearly all American. There are some English files, also some Belgian; but nearly 99 per cent, are American. The English ranks first for temper, the American for cut and shape, the Belgian for cheapness ; but withal the American rules the market. (3) Files are not manufactured in this district. (4) The price-list of the Troy manufacturers is far in excess of the prices at which files are bought from other American manufacturers, and, as I have been able to secure the exact prices of such files as are here, I deem it wiser to give those prices. The several files cited are bought in the States at wholesale per dozen, as follows : 3-iuch. 4-inch. 5-inch 6-inch 7-inch 8-mcli. 10- 12- 14- 10- 18- inch. inch. inch. inch. inch. Taper $0.40 si > 43 $0.71 Bastard flat $2.45 Flat 1 22 $2 08 $4.71 Half- round bastard.. . ••H.'iii $2.81 5.00 $6.35 Rasps $1 58 $1 81 2 09 To these prices must be added the freight, and they are sold here, as a general rule, at 10 cents Colombian per inch. The profits on these files therefore average 100 per cent, at the present rate of exchange. The prices in the States of the four different manufactures cited are virtually the same. (5) I have found no other files in this market for sale than those cited, and there is no tariff on files in this consular district. There are no charges between the manufacturer in the States and the merchants' stores here except the freight on the goods. VICTOR VIFQUAIN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Colon. October 1, 1889. FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. PANAMA. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL ADAMSON. (1) There is no special demand for American files in this consular dis- trict, neither is there a great demand for files from any other country. The conditions under which we live in this country are so different from those that prevail at home that it is difficult to make our people comprehend our case. Briefly stated, there are no roads worthy of mention, and therefore few vehicles to be repaired or horses to be shod. The mechanics who use files are then few. During the time when the works on the Panama Canal were in operation there was a considerable consumption of files in the machine and blacksmith shops of the com- pany, but that demand has ceased, and there is no prospect for creating a fresh demand. There is but one store in the whole department of Panama which is solely devoted to the business in hardware, and the purchases of, files by that establishment amount to $250 a year. Under such circum- stances as now exist here the total trade in files for the whole depart- ment will hardly reach $1,000 per annum. (2) All the files used here are imported from Sheffield, England. The kinds imported are such as are most used by blacksmiths, shoe, makers, and workers in wood. (3) Files are not manufactured in this district. (4) The principal dealer in hardware at this place does not keep in stock all the kinds or sizes of files mentioned in the list which accom- panies the circular, and would only quote the cost of a few numbers. For instance, he buys 10-inch bastard round files in Sheffield at 15 shillings per dozen, less 60 and 5 per cent. ; 16-inch bastard flat, 43 shillings, less same discount; 8-inch flat bastard, 10 shillings 6 pence, same discount; 16-inch half round, 43 shillings, same discount; 16- inch horse rasps, plain, 43 shillings, same discount. The ports of this isthmus are " free ports," but in the duty ports there are no higher duties imposed on American files than on those from Sheffield, and consequently the tariff can have nothing to do with the competition. THOMAS ADAMSON, * Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Panama, October 4, 1889. FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. 265 VENEZUELA. LA GUAYRA. REPORT BY CONSUL BIRD. (1) There is no demand in this consular district for American files. Importers declare that English tiles are much cheaper in price. (2) Files of all kinds in sufficient quantity to supply the ordinary de- mands of trade are imported from England. (3) No files are manufactured in Venezuela. (4) Four-inch bastard mill and round files, flat and square tiles, hand, warding, and pillar files, and half-round, and three-square files, at in- voice price, cost 4£ shillings per dozen, with 60 per cent, discount. These figures are so much lower than American quotations that it is probably unnecessary to say more upon the subject. (5) The duty on files amounts to $6.66 in United States gold per 100 pounds gross weight and 12 j per cent, of amount of duties for internal tax. The foregoing report is based upon information furnished by Messrs. Becker, Brun & Co., the largest hardware importers in this consular district. WINFIELD S. BIRD, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, La Guayra, October 7, 1889. MARACAIBO. REPORT BY CONSUL PLUMAOHEB. (1) There is little demand for American files in this district, as it is understood that American files are machine-made and customers prefer hand-made ones. (2) Files are imported into this district from England and Germany, but only the very best quality : flat, half-round, three-square, and rasps. (3) There are no files manufactured in this district. (4) Files are not purchased on the spot, but ordered direct from Eng. laud and Germany at prices well known to American makers. (5) Files are subject to fourth-class duty of the tariff of Venezuela ; that is to say, 15 cents American gold for every kilogram gross weight. E. PLUMACHEB, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Maracaibo, September 28, 1889. 266 FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. PUERTO CABELLO. REPORT BY CONSUL DE BLANC. (1) No American files are imported into this district as far as I have been able to ascertain. The hardware importing business in this port is limited to three firms (A. Mestern & Co., Max Keinboth & Co., and L. Seidel & Co.), who also have branch houses in Valencia. A demand for American files might be created by introducing and making them known in this market. For that purpose I would suggest the sending of samples to the above-named houses, who have assured me of their willingness to import from the United States if they can do so on terms as favorable as those they obtain at presentfrom the English manufact- urers. (2) All the files imported into this district come, almost exclusively, from England. The kinds imported are: bastard, half-round, flat, round, and square ; taper saw files, and pit saw files. (3) No files of any kind are manufactured in this district. (4) The following list shows the prices at which the kinds of files im- ported into this district are purchased by the wholesale dealers of this port: List of prices. Size. Bastard, half round, ronnd, flat, and square. Bastard, three square. Taper saw tiles, second cut. single. Pit saw files, second cut, single. 4£-inch *. d. *. d. 8. d. 5 0 s. d. 5 6 6 6 6-inch . . 1 0 8 6 8 6 8 6 8-incli 10 6 12 0 9-inch . .. ....... 12 0 10-inch 15 0 18 0 11-inch 21 6 12-inch 21 6 All the above are subject to 65 per cent, discount. (5) Custom dues in Venezuela are wholly specific, and are levied on the gross weight of packages. All foreign merchandise is divided into nine classes. Files are in the fourth class, and pay 75 centimes of a bolivar per kilogram ($6.6346 United States currency per 100 pounds). No other charges are imposed on the introduction of files into this district. CHARLES DE BLANC, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Puerto Cabellr, October 30, 1889. SPECIAX, CONSULAR REPORTS. CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. REPORTS FROM THE CONSULS OF THE UNITED STATES ON THE MANUFACTURE OF CARPETS AND RUGS IN THEIR SEVERAL DISTRICTS, IN ANSWER TO A CIRCULAR FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE. ISSUED FROM THE BUREAU OF STATISTICS, DEPARTMENT OF STATE. ALL BEQUESTS FOR THESE REPORTS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE, 1890. CARPET CIRCULAR. DEPARTMENT OF STATE, Washington, June 10, 1889. To the Consul at : SIB : The Department has been requested by representatives of the carpet manufacturers of the United States to secure statistics concern- ing that industry in the leading countries of Europe. In compliance with such request the following interrogatories and suggestions have been prepared with the view to obtaining the information desired : (1) Number of mills or distinct establishments engaged in the manufacture of car- pets in your district. (Give a list thereof, together with the proper business address of each.) (2) Number of looms in each establishment. Where exact information in this re- gard is not obtainable give the closest estimate, making a careful distinction between hand and power looms. (3) Proportion of pure carpets to those of lower grades, making, if possible, the following distinctions: (a) Brussels, Wilton, Saxony, velvet, etc. (6) Rugs and whole carpets— Smyrna, Turkish, etc. (c) Ingrain, Kidderminster, Venetian damask, etc. (4) Number of persons who find wage employment in the manufacture of carpets, rates of wages, hours of labor, manner of living, etc., distinguishing between those employed at their homes from those employed in factories. (5) Is the industry — dyeing, spinning, weaving, etc. — conducted unitedly or in sep- arate divisions by independent interests ? (6) How is the product placed upon the market— direct from the factories by the factors or through commission agents, etc. T (7) Where does the product find consumption, at home or abroad? If abroad, to what cou a tries is it exported, and on what terms are sales conducted ? You are requested to prepare a report upon the foregoing interroga- tories and suggestions and forward the same to the Department at your earliest convenience. I am, sir, your obedient servant, WILLIAM F. WHARTON, Assistant Secretary. CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. AUSTRIA-HUNGARY. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL GOLDSCHMIDT, OF VIENNA. MILLS AND ESTABLISHMENTS. (1) Imperial, Royal Carpet and Tapestry Factory of Philipp Haas & Sous, in Ebergassing (Actieugesellschaft der k. k. priv. Teppich- it* Mobel-Stoff-Fabrik von Philipp Haas & Sohne). (2) Johann Backhausen & Sons, Tapestry and Carpet Factory (M6- belstoff- u. Teppich-Fabrik), in Vienna and Hoheneich. (3) Hackl & Sons, T. R., Carpet and Tapestry Factory (k. k. priv, Teppich u. Mobelstoff-Fabrik), in Vienna and in Briihl, near Weitra. (4) Leopold Silberstein, in Vienna. (5) Gross-Sieghartser Tapestry Blanket and Carpet Factory (Mobel- stotf, Decken- u. Teppicli-Fabrik), in Gross- Siegh arts. All of the aforesaid are in Xether-Austria. (G) T. Ginsky, in Maffersdorf, near Reicheuberg, Bohemia. (7) Aubin Protzeu &Co., in Reichenberg, Bohemia. (8) Carl Wag/ier & Co., in Maffersdorf. LOOMS. The number of looms in the foregoing establishments amounted to 756 hand, and 338 power. GRADES MANUFACTURED. This question is hard to answer. All the articles named are produced. The production changes according to the fashion and demand, one year is unlike the other, hence it is impossible to make a statement giving the proportion of the different grades of carpets manufactured. 271 272 CARPP:T MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. NUMBER OF EMPLOYES. The following table answers the question as to the number of persons who find wage-employment in the manufacture of carpets in Austria and Bohemia : Countries. Chambers of Commerce. Num- ber of spin- dles. Machines. Workmen. Value of produc- tion. Hand-looms. Power- looms. | Women. Children. 1 Jacquard. ri 1 Jacquard. Austria Vienna 70 30 5 10 80 30 5 44 2 6 231 35 44 209 46 70 18 10 458 91 144 1,460 86 232 Florins. 675, 000 48, 000 148, 000 33, 000 1, 900, 000 128,000 300, 000 Austria Steuerinark . . Tirol Linz Graz 600 1,860 1,185 32 60 50 Bohemia . . £ Mahren Total Iteichenberg Buihveis Briinu 3, 500 1,000 1,830 270 50 114 110 6 22 380 56 136 130 780 50 120 620 34 112 60 2 90 9,975 539 148 687 182 142 1,260 1,031 2,441 3, 227, 000 RATES OF WAGES PER WEEK. Class. Men. Women. Adults. Children. Adults. Children. BoLemian : Formen $4. 00-$5 60 2. 00- 3. 60 2.40-2.80 2. 30- 2. 80 3. 20- 3. 40 2. 40- 3. 20 3. 00- 3. 40 2.40- 2.80 5.30 7.46 $1. 30-$1. 40 1. 30- 1. 50 1.80- 2.00 1.60 1. 00- 1. 30 1. 10- 1. 40 $1.60-$2.00 1.60 1. 70- 1. 90 $1.50 $1. 20- 1. 50 Dyers Helpers to hand-weavers 1. 40- 1. 80 1. 80- 2. 00 1.60- 2. GO 1. 00- 1. 40 1.20- 1.60 Shoddy wool-workers Austria : Hand-weavers .. 2. 60- 4. 80 3. 20- 3. 75 3. 10- 3. 75 4. 20- 4. 40 3. 20- 4. 20 4. 00- 4. 40 3.20- 3.75 1. 70- 2. 00 1. "0- 2. 00 2. 40- 2. 66 2.15 1. 33- 1. 70 1. 46- 1. 90 2. 15- 2. 65 2.15 2. 30- 2. 50 2.00 1. 60- 2. 00 Dyers Skilled workmen. ..... .... 1. 90- 2. 40 2. 40- 2. 66 2. 15- 2. 66 1.33- 1.90 1. 60- 2. 15 Helper to power-weavers Shoddy wool- workers ... The foregoing table shows that the weekly wages in Austria in this particular branch of business are sufficiently moderate, but those paid in Bohemia are starvation wages. HOURS OF LABOR. Eleven hours constitute a work day in both countries, one -half hour's time being allowed for dinner. Work in the Austrian weaving establishments goes on throughout the whole year, with the exception of Sundays and church festivals and certain national or local festivals, which number 76 out of the 365 days, making 289 work days. AUSTRIA-HUNGARY. 273 Workmen as a rule in this monarchy are usually steady and methodi- cal iu their labor, but do not work as energetically as the American workman. HOW THE WORK PEOPLE LIVE. They are industrious, but fond of amusement, and are too often in- terrupted by the numerous holidays observed here. Their homes are far from comfortable. There are few houses inhabited by a single family, generally one house shelters from eight to twelve families ; over- crowding is great in these dwellings, and morality is affected by it. On account of the dearuess of the land, there is a scarcity of small houses suitable for a single family. The dress of . the workman is tolerably good. .Much wine and beer are consumed by the lower classes, though drunkenness does not prevail to a great extent. Since the great battle between capital and labor has begun, the condition of the laboring classes of this monarchy has been visibly and, I trust, permanently im- proved, although there is great room for improvement in wages in this special line of business. WOMEN WORKERS. A great deal of heavy work here is done by women of all ages, not only in carpet factories, but in the open air, such as sawing wood, mak- ing and carrying mortar in buckets, and hauling the brick used in build- ing. The wages they earn are 40 cents per day. In the carpet manu- factories only a very small percentage of the workmen are employed at their homes. HOW THE INDUSTRY IS CONDUCTED. In three factories dyeing, spinning, and weaving are combined, but colored carpet- warp in the Bohemian factories of the firms of T. Ginsky and Aubin Protzen & Co., is obtained from other countries. The other establishments limit themselves to the weaving and finishing of carpets. HOW THE PRODUCT IS MARKETED. The manufacturer has large warerooms in the prominent cities, from whence the goods are retailed to the consumer direct; for instance, the linn of Philipp Haas & Sons, of Vienna, has large retail establishments in the following cities : Budapest, Prague, Graz, Liuz, Lemberg, Bu- charest, Milan, Home, Naples, and Genoa. They also employ traveling men who canvass the country. In a few instances, especially in the smaller concerns, commission agents and jobbers market the product of the carpet manufacturers in conjunction with other goods, such as furniture, house-furnishing goods in general, dry goods, etc. 274 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. WHERE THE PRODUCT FINDS CONSUMPTION. The product finds the greatest consumption at home, though there is some exportation to the Orient, Russia, Italy, Servia, Eoumania, and other countries. Terms of sale vary greatly ; there are no established rules as to time and discount, each manufacturer having his own method of doing busi- ness. MOTORS IN USE. In conclusion and in addition to the questions propounded, I give be- low a table compiled by the various chambers of commerce in the different sections of Austria, showing the motors, representing the amount of horse-power used in the manufacture of carpets and blankets. Countries. Chambers of commerce. to 1 S A 1 CM O 0 to Steam machines. Water- power, tur- ttlne wheel. Water- power. Other motors. Total. Number. • Horse-power. Number. Horse-power. Number. Horse-power. Number. Horse-power. Number. Horse power. Austria J Steiermark Vienna 8 1 4 140 1 114 2 2 41 70 1 8 8 2 303 70 67 257 27 128 932 Graz 2 3 1 60 1 7 Tyrol Bohemia 5 Reichenberg 4 1 2 21 6 1 3 285 12 128 3 42 1 1 30 15 10 2 3 27 Main-en Total 6 156 1 8 15 625 5 163 ACKNOWLEDGMENT. I am indebted and make in consequence my acknowledgment to Mr. Gustav v. Schceller, of Briinu, for most of the information herein em- braced. JULIUS GOLDSCHMIDT, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Vienna, October 31, 1889. I BELGIUM. REPORT BY CONSUL ROOSEVELT, OF BRUSSELS. With the exception of a small factory at Touruai, known as the Royal Carpet Manufactory, employing only eight workmen, the carpet indus- try has completely disappeared from this consular district, owing in part to aversion by the Belgians to new inventions, and greatly to com- petition by the English. Some years ago the weaving of carpets by BELGIUM AND FRANCE. 275 hand was a special feature of the Tournai factory, which produces an article justly renowned for its durability, beauty, and fine workman- ship. At present this factory employs machinery, and manufactures only such carpets as are specially ordered. Owing to the above-mentioned causes and low rate of duty, 10 per cent, ad valorem, on carpets coming into Belgium, this last existing factory is about to suspend operations. I may add that carpets were never manufactured at Brussels, but in former years beautiful tapestry used for wall decoration was made here. This industry, however, no longer exists, the disappearance of which is also attributed to the English, who adopted the designs and imitated them in carpets which they introduced to the trade as " Brussels tapes- try carpets;" hence the origin of the name, Brussels carpets. The so-called Brussels carpets, manufactured in England, are placed upon this market at a much lower rate than the same article can be produced in Belgium; consequently England supplies this market, and Belgium dealers exporting carpets furnish foreign markets with En glish goods. GEORGE W. KOOSEVELT, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Brussels, October 31, 1889. FRANCE. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL RATHBONE, OF PARIS. EXPLANATORY. I have the honor to transmit herewith a report on " French carpets,77 as per instructions received from you. I regret to state that it is not better provided with figures and tables and statistics generally, but I have been utterly unable to obtain same. Manufacturers seem to be suspicious, and will not give the figures or particulars. My predecessor, Consul-General Walker, in 1882 sent out forty letters requesting information and got no replies, and I have sent twelve and received two. I also directed a letter to the ministry of commerce, the answer to which I inclose, which states that no statis- tics have been made on the subject. The number of establishments devoted exclusively to the manufacture of carpets in France is not so large as the flourishing state of the car- pet trade would lead one to suppose. The Government establishments of Les Gobelins and at Beauvais, by producing a quantity of carpets of the very best quality in their own peculiar style, hamper private enterprise. Moreover, in a country like France, where the manufacture 276 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. of hangings of all kinds has been brought to such perfection, manufact- urers are often induced to make the production of carpets, properly so called, a part only of their business. The chief centers for the manufacture of carpets, exclusive of the Government ones, are at Aubusson and ia the department of the Nord. NAMES OF MANUFACTURERS. The following are some of the best houses in France: Messrs. Braguenie et Cie, at Aubusson: Paris house, 16 Rue Vivienne. Messrs. G. and R. Hamot, at Aubusson ; Paris house, 75 Rue de Richelieu. Messrs. Croc, pere et fils, and A. Jorrand, at Aubusson ; Paris house, 12 Rue Cle'ry. Messrs. Sallaudroze freres, at Felletin, near Aubusson j Paris house, 36 Rue des Jeuueurs. Messrs. A. L. Dupont et Com- pagnie and William, Tetard, L'aine et Rupp, both at Beauvais. The manufactories of Bernard Welcomme, Auguste Johnville-Rav- esteyn-Rudent are at Roubaix. Those belonging to Raymond Par- mentier — Moulin — Pipart, Messrs. Rambaud and Monuier, and Messrs. Lorthiois freres, are at Turcoing. Both these towns are in the depart- ment of the Nord. It is impossible to obtain any complete figures re- lating to the number of looms in the different French establishments. They are not to be found at the ministry of commerce, and the manu- facturers to whom application has been made for data have almost unanimously declined to give any After a great deal of sesearch we can only obtain a more or less correct estimate. The comparative number of hand and steam looms in use depends on the extent of the establishment in which they are found. As a general rule, the number of hand looms exceeds that of steam, ones in the pro- portion of about four to one. GRADES OF CARPETS MADE. The quantity of carpets of first-rate quality manufactured in France is slightly smaller than that of carpets of inferior quality. Carpets of almost every conceivable kind are made in France. The demand for Oriental carpets is steadily increasing, and vigorous efforts have been made by several well-known French houses to produce some of the best Oriental carpets that have ever been placed on the market. Monsieur Ferdinand Leborgne, who has an important establishment at L annoy, in the department of the !S~ord, is probably second to none in chis respect. WORKMEN EMPLOYED. The number of men employed in the manufacture of carpets is very considerable. Aubusson has some one thousand six hundred or two thousand of them, distributed among ten or twelve different houses. A large number of hands are also employed at Les Gobelins and at Beauvais. Though Paris is the center of great industrial activity, it is far from taking the first rank for the manufacture of carpets. FRANCE. 277 WAGW8. Wages fluctuate ft om time to time, but since the last quaiter of a century they have risen a great deal, especially in Paris. But the rate of wages for women has not risen in anything like the same proportion as for men. At present, wages rise more quickly in the province's than in the capital, but in spite of this, the Paris workmen are far better paid than their provincial brothers, as the following table will show: Class of workmen. Paris. Usual wages. Frana. 7 Oil Francs. :> .">«) 5 50 4. 00 Workmen above t \venty-one yeai's old ft. 00 3.00 8.50 2.00 2 f»o 1 75 Boys .« . ... ............ 1.75 1.25 Girls 1.50 1.00 The figures given in the second column show the usual rate of wages. It must be remembered that wages vary according to the part of the country in which the work-people live, and that, in some places, they are allowed their food. They are often fed, or both fed and lodged, and receive an inferior wage. In this case the figures given above are usually reduced in the proportion of from one- fifth to three -fifths. HOURS OF LABOR. All ages and both sexes work twelve hours daily, except apprentices, who work ten hours only. WOMEN WORKERS. The number of women and girls employed amounts to nearly 50 per cent, of the entire number of hands. Though the demand for female labor is always considerable, the wages given to women and girls show few signs of increasing in the same proportion as the men's. This is explained by the great abundance of the supply of female labor. APPRENTICES AND PIECEWORK. The system of apprenticing boys and girls is fast dying out in the carpet industry. The piece-work method has produced excellent re- sults, on the whole, and it is now being adopted generally. It follows that work-people do not require the same amount of technical skill as formerly. They have to know what more immediately concerns their own particular division of labor, and are not expected to know any more. Any additional knowledge is not generally of use to them, and hardly increases their value in the labor market. The law on apprentices is very rigidly enforced, and masters hesi- tate to take apprentices in order not to place themselves within its 278 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. reach. Boys and girls when twelve or thirteen years old are therefore taken on as work-people, but with a small wage, and they work twelve hours per day. What technical instruction they require is easily ac- quired in schools opened on purpose for them, either by the Govern- ment or by private individuals. When it is found necessary to take an apprentice, the boy or girl is bound for the space of one year only. This period of time is usually found to be amply sufficient. MANNER OF LIVING. The manner of living among the carpet hands varies greatly accord- ing to the importance of the town they inhabit. On the whole the Paris workman is less well off than the provincial one. He has acquired more or less expensive tastes from which the other has abstained. Also the price of rent is very high in the capital and moderate in most of the provincial towns. If we add to a father's earnings those of his wife and children, we obtain a figure which enables him and them to live mod- estly. It has long been an acknowledged fact that a man cannot earn enough for the support of his family. At the same time, it should be borne in mind that the workmen employed in the carpet trade are poor, because some of them earn less than those engaged in other branches of industry. Many a French operative, in the provinces, is the owner of the cottage he inhabits, and of the plot of ground around ; but the number of workmen engaged in the carpet industry, who are at the same time their own landlords, is exceedingly limited. To make matters worse, the conscription deprives many a family of a much- needed pair of arms ; and when young men can earn enough to maintain themselves, they often quit the paternal roof. The women are the main- stays of many a home; by doing a great deal of piece-work at home, without neglecting their domestic duties, by their thrift and by their knowledge of turning money to the best advantage, they render services which are too seldom appreciated and acknowledged. The carpet hands, like the majority of working people, are paid at shorter intervals than formerly. They pay ready-money for all they buy much more frequently than a few years ago, and this may produce beneficial results. Some years back, the small dealers readily*gave credit, but this encouraged indiscriminate spending. A reaction fol- lowed. The venders, who experienced the greatest difficulty in obtain- ing their money, began to refuse selling on credit- As a consequence, working people are learning to regulate their expenses according to their means, as they can only buy with ready money. But no permanent improvement can be expected while the custom still obtains of doing what is popularly called " la Saint- Lnndi ; " that is to say, working on Sunday morning and then idling and drinking on Mondays from morning till a great deal past evening. This is a fear- FRANCE. 279 ful cause of demoralization, and unfortunately shows few signs of dis- appearing. By far the great number of hands are employed inside the manufac- tories. Those employed outside are chiefly women and., girls. The practice of giving women and girls work at home is becoming more and more popular. The masters like it because it lightens female labor, and the girls and women like it because it enables them to earn money while attending to their domestic duties. Both sexes are employed 011 night work ; but apprentices are entirely free from anything of the kind. Much has been done of late years to improve the sanitary con- dition of workshops. But much remains to be done in this way, and the zealous surveillance of the authorities is constantly required. CHEAPENING LABOR. The cheapening ot labor is a question of the very greatest importance to French carpet manufacturers. Having outstripped their rivals in the race for superiority, they are now attempting to surpass them on the score of cheapness; but their efforts in this direction have not always been attended with success. They have to struggle against German and Italian competition, especially the latter. Dyeing, weav-' ing, and spinning are carried on either in the same or in different ones, according to the importance of the firm or the resources of the country in which it is situated. Local customs have sometimes much to do with this distribution of labor. But in the most important firms, such as that of Messrs. T£tard L'aine, at Rupp, at Beauvais, for example, the three processes are always carried on in the same establishment. HOW THE PRODUCT IS MARKETED. The manufactured goods are usually placed on the market by the manufacturers themselves. This is especially the case when they have a depot or branch house in Paris. The number of firms employing com- mission agents is constantly decreasing, and this decrease is likely to continue. WHERE THE PRODUCT FINDS CONSUMPTION. France buys up the greater quantity of the carpets she produces. Since the last few years she has partially undersold England in several parts of the world in the matter of expensive carpets and of those of inferior quality — this is especially true in the case of Northern Europe, and some parts of South America. The French export carpets to every European country ; and in Egypt, where carpets in the oriental style are made in large quantities, the produce of their carpet-looms finds a ready market. The total value of declared exports of carpets and tapestries (princi- 280 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. pally tapestries) from France to tlie United States was $14,480 for the year ending June 30, 1889. The total value of carpets exported from France, principally to Bel- gium and England, during the year 1888, amounted to $570,991. J. L. RATHBONE, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE GENERAL, Paris, October 18, 1889. ST. ETIENNE. REPORT BY COMMERCIAL AGENT MALMROB. On receipt of circular I made immediately diligent inquiries in every department attached to ray agency, but in no part of my district could 1 find that any manufacture corresponding to the character of those mentioned in the circular existed. There is however a small manufactory situated in the town of Tullius, in the department of the Isere> for the fabrication of a kind of coarse stair-carpeting, owned by a man named Drevet, who employs about twenty workmen ; but as this industry is only in its inception the amount of work done is not considerable. Notwithstanding, the owner assured me that he has plant enough to employ two hundred artisans and turn out 2,000 yards of carpeting a day. The material he employs is hemp, and his machinery is moved by water with a force of about fifty horse power. At present the dyeing, spinning, and weaving are all done on the premises, and all sales are effected directly through the manufact- urer, no commission agent being employed. He exports none of his fabrication save a little to Algeria. As regards the pay and manner of living of the workmen, M. Drevet vouchsafed the following information : The pay of the men ranges from 2.50 to 3 francs a day (5.18 francs =$1), the women, from 1.50 to 2 francs. Their rent does not exceed 60 francs a year ($13). Their manner of living is frugal and simple. A vegetable soup is taken invariably in the morning; for dinner a plate of meat, with generally two kinds of vegetables and a bottle of red wine ; in the evening a soup same as in the morning and whatever remains from dinner, the whole coming to about 60 francs a month for a man and his wife and two children. The men work ten hours a day; the time for breakfast (half an hour) and dinner (an hour and a half) are not included. OSCAR MALMROS, Commercial Agent. , UNITED STATES COMMERCIAL AGENCY, St. Mienne, August 21, 1889. GERMANY. 281 GERMANY. AIX LA CHAPELLE. REPORT BY CONSUL PARSONS. FACTORY. There is but oiie establishment in this consular district engaged in the manufacture of carpets. The business address of said establish- ment is Gebriider Schoeller, DUren, Rheinprovinz, Germany. LOOMS. With the exception of several hand looms for new designs or patterns of carpets, all looms are power looms. There are about two hundred of these power looms of different sizes and systems. This estimate is the closest obtainable and can not vary more than two or three from the exact figures. GRADE OF CARPETS MADE. The principal carpets made are (1) Brussels, (2) velvet carpets (vel- our), and (3) tapestry carpets. Rugs from smaller sizes up to 4 meters by 4 meters, in these three grades, are also manufactured, as well as carpets and rugs of lower grades. Samples will be forwarded if de- sired. EMPLOYES. About five hundred persons, men, women, and children, are employed in this factory of Gebriider Schoeller in the manufacture of carpets. Gebriider Schoeller own, in addition to this carpet factory, a cloth man ufactory, which is also located at Diiren, under the firm name Leopold Schoeller und Sohne. The spinning of the yarns for the carpets is done in this cloth factory, the dyeing and weaving in the carpet factory. As workmen are employed, therefore, partly in the spinning of carpet mate- rial and partly in that of cioth material, it is impossible to fix with en- tire accuracy the total number engaged in the manufacture of carpets. Five hundred is the closest estimate obtainable. WAGES. The wages vary from 6 to 18 marks ($1.43 to $4.28) per week, payable weekly. HOURS OF LABOR. The hours of labor are from 6 a. m. to 8 p. m., with intermissions of two hours, as follows: Half an hour between Gam. and 12 m., one hour at midday, and half an hour between 1 p. m. and 8 p. m. There 282 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. are therefore twelve working hours for six days of the week, excepting Saturday, when work is stopped, as a rule, an hour earlier. It seems hardly necessary to add that no work is done Sunday. All work is done in the factories. There are no persons employed by Gebriider Schoeller at their homes in the manufacture of carpets. MANNER OP LIVING. The manner of living of these employe's is simple. During the half- hour intermissions the laborers partake of coffee and bread and butter, brought from their homes. At midday those living near the factory return to their homes for dinner, those living at a distance eating their dinner brought from home in the factory. The dinner consists of soup and vegetables, and occasionally a bit of meat. A few who live in the country and neighboring villages return to their homes but once a week. These sleep also in the factory. The laborers living in the country own for the most part their small homes with garden j those living in the city rent lodgings. SPINNING, DYEING, ETC. As stated under answer to question 4, Gebriider Schoeller own, in ad- dition to the carpet, a cloth manufactory, which is also located in Diiren, under the firm name Leopold Schoeller und Sohne. The spinning of the yarn for the carpets is done in the cloth factory, the dyeing and weaving in the carpet factory. HOW THE PRODUCT IS MARKETED. The product is placed upon the market direct from the factory, partly through traveling salesmen who receive fixed salaries in addition to their traveling expenses j partly through agents who receive a percent- age of the sales. The demand being greater than the supply, the manu- facturers are enabled in a measure to choose their customers. WHERE THE PRODUCT FINDS CONSUMPTION. The product finds consumption principally at home in Germany, and in Belgium and France. The sales in England are also considerable. Gebriider Schoeller have exported no carpets to the United States since November 19, 1884, when an invoice amounting to 1,000.90 marks was legalized at this consulate. The usual terms upon which sales are con- ducted are ninety days, with a discount of 2 per cent, for cash. Gebruder Schoeller aim at the greatest secrecy in this carpet manu- facture. While the entrance to cloth and most other factories in this dis- trict is easy, even for foreign manufacturers, entrance to this carpet fac- tory is strictly forbidden. More than this, the workmen themselves are GERMANY. 283 separated and watched, so that few of them understand more of the fab- rication than conies under their especial charge. JAMES RUSSELL PARSONS, JR., Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, AIJU la-Chajpcllej August 6, 1880. BARMEN. REPORT BY CONSUL FALKEKBACH. FACTORIES. In the United States District of Barmen there are three carpet fac- tories, viz: (1) The Barmen Carpet Factory, formerly Vorwerk Co., Barmen; (2) Eugel & Hunsche, Unter Barmen j (3) Korte & Co., Her- ford, Westphalia. LOOMS. The Barmen Carpet Factory has only power looms, obtained exclu- sively from England, the number in operation being from forty to forty- five. Engel & Hunsche have both hand and power looms, but I am not able nor in a position to give any information as to their number, which is likewise the case in regard to Korte & Co. GRADES OF CARPET MADE. The Barmen Carpet Factory principally produces piece-goods in rolls (Brussels and Tournay or Wilton) in a width of 68 to 70 centi- meters. The factory possesses, in addition, a loom for goods 90 centi- meters wide, and several looms in which full-size carpets (130 centi- meters— 3 yards — wide, and upwards) can be woven. A number of the narrow (68 to 70 centimeters) looms were last year employed in the production of furniture stuffs resembling carpets, which are brought into market partly in running meters, and partly in full sizes. The former is the so-called "Moquette stuff;" the latter are known in the English and American markets as "saddle-bags," and are manufactured in the factory in question in the following sizes: 45 by 45 centimeters, oo by 58 centimeters, 70 by 70 centimeters, 70 by 135 centimeters (the so-called "divan lengths"), and 90 by 180 centimeters (Daghestans). While the Moquette stuff is only made in one quality, the saddle-bags are produced in two, viz : a fine Moquette quality and a coarse Tournay quality. Notwithstanding the fact that the former is the dearest of the two, it is far more saleable. Engel & Hunsche do not manufacture many roll goods, and, as far as I could learn, they possess no wide looms. Like the Barmen Carpet Factory, they principally manufacture furniture stuffa, aud in addition, 17A 2 284 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. rugs. Korte & Go. produce cheap woolen carpets in full ^sizes, with printed designs. EMPLOYES. The Barmen Carpet Factory employs between one hundred and thirty and one hundred and fifty hands, who are paid according to the nature of their employment or the amount of work done. With a few exceptions the hands in the factory are paid by the piece, and conse- quently it is very difficult to give information as to the amount they earn. Carpet weavers earn between 20 and 40 marks per week ; the spoolers from 6 to 12 marks, and the girls who examine and darn the goods per- haps even as much. The amount earned depends even too much upon the diligence and the efficiency of the individual hands. DYEING, SPINNING, ETC. Connected with the carpet factory are the dye-works ; as in this es- tablishment (Barmen Carpet Factory), all such work is generally carried on which is necessary for the manufacture of carpets, etc. The Barmen Carpet Factory dyes the raw yarn, which it imports almost exclusively direct from English spinners ; it shears and dresses the warp. The factory likewise has its own steam-spoolers ; it steams, shears, and mends the finished manufacture. HOW THE PRODUCT IS MARKETED. The finished article is delivered directly to the customer by the Bar- men Carpet Factory. Commission agents, and other intermediary per- sons are, if possible, always avoided. The factory employs its own trav- eling agents, and, in addition, has agents in the chief commercial cen- ters, who work on commission. WHERE THE PRODUCT FINDS CONSUMPTION. The chief market of the Barmen Carpet Factory is Germany, where, in consequence of the protective tariff and the really rare unity among German manufacturers, good prices are obtained. The Barmen factory does an export trade also, though less in carpets than in furniture stuffs. The export of carpets is small, possibly because the factory possesses but few original designs, the majority being copied from those of other manufacturers, particularly of English. In moquettes and saddlebags, however, this factory possesses many original designs, and exports these furniture goods to England, Holland, Belgium, Denmark, Sweden, Austro-Hungary, Switzerland, and Kou- mania. Franco delivery is generally not customary in Germany, while to foreign countries it is. The factory allows several per cent, for cash, but seldom gives more than three to four months credit. JOSEPH FALKENBACH, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Consul. Barmen, July 24, 1889. GEKMANY. 285 GERA. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT NEUER. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the Department's circular letter of June 10, ultimo, requesting consular officers in the in- terest of the carpet manufacturers of our country, to secure statistics concerning that industry in the leading countries of Europe. In com- pliance with this request I have done my best in order to obtain the desired information, but I am compelled to state that my endeavors in gathering reliable data on the subject in question were attended with great difficulties, the manufacturers refusing to divulge what they call their business secrets. In view of these obstacles many details were obtained from outside parties, and by circuitous routes, and in presenting the following accurate facts, I hope that they may prove of interest to the carpet manufacturers of the United States. LIST OF FACTORIES. In conformity with the interrogatories contained in the Department' s circular, I begin in giving a list of the factories employed in the pro- duction of carpets, together with the proper business address of each, as well as the number of operatives and hand and power looms in each establishment. Carpet factories in the district of the consular agency at Gera. Names of the firms. Place. No. of opera- tives. No. of power looms. No. of hand looms. •Toh Fr Spaethe ............................ Gera 63 41 3 Hilpert & Co Do 55 30 Carl &. Port eger . . .. ....... Do .. 13 g Do 7 " " _ Do . g 5 Hartwi" &. Poser M ii nchenbernsdorf 35 25 (' K Erdmann Do 33 22 Do 25 7 1° R Eisenahiuidt Do 16 •»•> C E Schneider .. . Do 14 10 H;ii» lli irth M j } « ( 30 1'_'0 150 minster and Dutch. Brussels and Wilton. Do. Ingraina and Dutch. do 55 *» "13 < 125 rugs, etc. ]fi Tolson & Son . Mill Road Baxley Carr 25 j J37 George Wallis Dewsbary. Eastneld Mills Dewsbury 15 20 J*auicl Exlev Watergate, Dewsbnry 25 i 37 Do A braharo Grime 102 Kirkstall Road Leeds 2 o 2 W. Shaw Singleton .... John Beever . 30 Metcalfe street, Leeds Alfred street, Hudderstield 15 45 0 o 16 100 Cloth hearth-ru£8 Wright, Blackburn &. Co. Hirst & Co Slaithwaite, Hnddersneld . . . Providence WV>rks Henry 40 51 0 o 70 94 Do. Do Alfred Sykes & Co.... street, Undderrifield. Viaduct Works, Huddersfield Albert street, Lockwood 100 20 0 o 250 50 Do. Do Huddersfield. 'Estimated number of power looms for those firms. » BuUding. 290 CARPF/l MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Style of firm. Business address. No oi Hand. looms. Power. Opera- tives. Character of products. M Gledhill Townend Golcar Hn.dd.ers- 12 0 y Cloth hearth-rugs. field. Criinble, Slaithwaite Hud- 12 o 20 Do Edmund Swallaw dersfield 20 St. John's Road and Page 125 o 300 Do W. Arnritage Huddersfield Hearth- Kug Co. JobuT.Lord & Co Benj'n ThArnton & Son Edward Haigh street, Huddersfield. Crosland Moor Bottom, Hud- dersfield. Brook street, Huddersfield.. Bradley street, Huddersfield . Bankfield Works, Hudders- field. Milusbridge, Huddersfield 12 105 12 10 0 0 0 0 0 25 200 15 108 20 Do. Jute, and clotli hearth- rugs. Jute and cloth rugs. Cloth and yarn rugs. Cloth and finder William Taylor Albion street Huddersfield. 4'2 0 100 hearth-rugs. Cloth and beam rugs. George Walker Moorfield Works, Leeds 12 0 14 Beam rugs and mats. Chas. Powell & Co Joseph Hall 14 Little Woodhouse street, Leeds. 22 Browne's Square Leeds 8 1 () () 10 1 Beam and fi n g e r e d rugs. List carpets W. Mortimer & Co Patent Woolen Cloth Co Craven Mills, Wakeneld .... Camp Koad, Leeds.-.— 3 No 7 looms. 40 250 Cocoa mattings an d mats. Feltings. 1,106 60 2,495 The firms whose names appear above, when working to their fall ca- pacity, would give employment to perhaps something like 2,500 oper- atives in the manufacture of floor coverings of various kinds. RATES OF WAGES. Bates of wages in the Dewsbury district are quoted : Dyers (exclusive of foreman) 23s. per week — .. „—... $5. 60 Spinners (exclusive of foreman ) 29s. per week 7. 06 Weavers (exclusive of foreman) 25s. per week 6. 08 Other hands (exclusive of foreman) 21s. per week 5. 11 Another estimate (general) for weaving Kidderminsters gives 60 yards per week for a man weaver with hand-loom at Qd. (12.0 cents) per running yard (1 yard wide) or the equivalent of 30s. ($7.30) a week wages. Two other estimates coincide for an approximate average of 20s. ($4.87) per week, taking the range of all grades. Another gives 6s. to 60s. per week ($1.46 to $14.60) ; while, going into details, the same authority reckons as follows : Weavers : i Girls, lOs-16* $2.43- $3.89 Men, 24s-40s 5.84- 9.73 Tuners, 12«-45« 2.92- 10.95 Dyers, 15*-40a 3. Go- 9.73 Still another quotation is for weaving Brussels, three-quarters wide, 2^d. to 2JcL (4^6 to 4^ cents) per running yard by power loom ; lOdf. (20J cents) per running yard by hand loom. For weaving Kidder- minster, 1 yard wide, 5d. to Id. (10| to 14£ cents) per running yard on hand loom ; and for squares and yard- wide goods on power loom to l%d. (2J to 3 cents) per square yard. GREAT BRITAIN. 291 In ni« [-making young women weavers working leu and one-half hours PIT day are said to be able to earn 12s. ($2.92) a week by piece-work. Another return shows, girls, per week, 9s. ($2.19) ; men, piece-work, LV7. co Is. (4 to 24£ cents) per square foot. Still another one gives mat- weavers, girls, in full work, 8s. to 9s. per week ($1.95 to $2.19) ; rug- weavers, girls, in full work, 12s. to 14s. per week ($2.92 to $3.41). HOURS OF LABOR AND MANNER OF LIVING. Working hours, full time, are about fifty -six per week. The factory acts apply to the carpet and rug manufacture as they do to other in- dustries. The manner of living among the rug and carpet hands is essentially the same as that of other employes in the textile trade. There is no cottage work worth speaking of. Practically the entire product is derived from factories, larger or smaller, as the case may be. DIVISION OF MANUFACTURE. Dyeing, spinning, weaving, and finishing are conducted unitedly in some instances ; but this is by no means universally done. It would be hard to assign a proportion. From the Dewsbury district, on a total estimated loom force of 385 looms, of which 360 were reckoned as hand-looms and 25 as power-looms, with an allowance of about 050 operatives employed, an estimated ap- portionment is 10 per cent, weaving only, and 90 per cent, spinning, dye- ing, and weaving. In another district the *c weaving only" would be likely to show a larger share proportionately of the work. HOW MARKETED. The whole output, or nearly the whole, is sold direct from the manu- facturers. Most of it goes to merchants ; some, perhaps, to retailers. Commission houses, as such, are scarcely dealt with. WHERE MARKETED. The product of the district would seem to be consumed in Great Brit- ain as regards the larger part of it. Some export takes place to the continent, to the colonies, and to the United States. Sales are made, as a rule, on shore credits with small discounts — say from cash to one, two, three, or four months, and from 5 per cent, discount to net terms. OUTPUT. A cloth rug manufacturer in Leeds with fifteen hand-looms reckons them capable of turning out four thousand rugs per annum, working un- interruptedly through the j ear. In this establishment women only are 292 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. weavers. The looms are perpendicular and a long shuttle (about 27 inches) is used. The warp is of linen manufactured at Leeds. The weft or backing is of jute, and is brought from a distance. The face is composed of cloth tufts fixed in during the process of weaving. The strips of cloth, which make the tufts, are trimmings from the cloth mills, clippings from the cutters' tables in ready-made clothing factories, and waste stuff, perhaps, from still other sources. It may be added that the refuse from these tuftings goes on to the shoddy mills, where it joins the general collection of cast-off material, and is given a fresh start in the round of usefulness. The Dewsbury- Batley district, which lies just outside the municipal limit of Leeds, was the birth-place and is at the present most prominent center of the shoddy trade. Bugs of the character spoken of, woven in geometrical designs and showing colors, generally somber, by reason of the preponderance of dark stuffs in the waste cloth employed in making them, are much used in England, and particularly in this district, for kitchens and the smaller houses occupied by the working-classes. The rugs are very thick and heavy, and afford the needed protection from the damp stone pavements, which are so frequently found in basements and on ground floors in cottage dwellings. PRICE-LISTS. Annexed details are from price-list of a Huddersfield firm. Yorkshire cloth hearthrugs. Weight of these cloth hearthrugs run from 9 to 24 pounds per rug according to size, quality, and make. Something to tread upon — soft, thick, and comfortable to the feet. Description. Size in inches. Price. BB. B. BX. CC. C. ex. EE. E. EX. DD. D. DX. H. J. M. N. 0 FF. First quality black or brown grounds 60 by 27 60 27 60 25 66 27 66 27 66 27* 68 31 68 31 68 31 72 36 72 34 70 34 72 36 72 36 72 36 72 36 76 36 60 28 s.d. 4 0 3 6 2 9 4 0 4 U 3 9 5 0 4 6 3 11 6 9 5 9 4 9 8 0 9 0 10 0 11 0 12 0 6 0 Third quality dark gray grounds not so heavy First quality, black or brown grounds _ . Second quality dark gray grounds Third quality, job cloth, all colors First quality black or brown grounds Second quality dark gray grounds Third quality' dark grav grounds not so heavy First quality black or brown grounds . . Second quality, light gray or drab, or self-color grounds Third qualitv dark grav grounds Quality fancy designs heavier and fuller Quality, fancy designs little more pattern and color Quality new' art designs and colors Quality, do. 50 ends more warp in . ... Quality do. more warp better* still GREAT BRITAIN. 293 Tin- following inott'ifs or \\ords will only l»o made to order. Any other iiinttncH •»! i ideated will be made when ordoivd. Xi Description. Size in Pri ce. inches. H. DD. 1R 72 by 36 *.d. S 0 s.d. (j t> 10 Wis»loin is happiness 72 36 g o 0 6 ''<) 72 36 8 0 6 6 "1 Comfort at home 72 36 8 0 t; t; "7! Keep £oo No place like home 72 36 8 0 6 6 •>« Oar own fireside is the best . .. 72 36 8 0 Any of the above mottoes if done in wool, two colors, Is. 6d. each extra, or if let- ters, all scarlet cloth, Is. extra only. No. Description. Pri ce. BB. CC. DD. EE. FF. H. ?7 Home g.d. 0 s.d. 6 s.d. 6 ii s.d. 0 0 g.d. c s.d. 8 0 •'8 o g 6 6 5 0 Q 8 0 V» Comfort . II 6 6 6 5 0 6 8 0 30 Welcome o Q 6 6 5 0 Q 8 0 31 Hope o 6 6 6 5 0 8 0 39 Sobriety 4 0 g 6 6 5 0 Q 8 0 33 Sweet home ... 4 0 Q 6 6 5 0 Q 8 0 Cloth mats in H quality 28 by 14 inches, 18*. per dozen. Worsted heald hearthrugs or mats sold by weight, not by size. Crimson is most in demand and kept in stock, from 15s. to 30s. each, Is. 4d. per pound. Mats, 28. to 10s. each, Is. 3d. to Is. 8d. per pound, according to quality, etc. Imitation heald hearthrugs, 72 by 30 inches, 5s. 1 Id. to 10s. 6d. Imitation heald mats, 30 by 12 inches, 15s., 16s., 17s., 18s., 19s., and 20s. per dozen. Cloth hearthrugs made to order any particular pattern, quality, or price. Any kind of mottoes or words can be woven in (to order only). Terms : Accounts monthly, with 2£ discount ; for cash in ten days, 1J extra. All accounts are to be remitted direct to the firm. Cheques, money-orders, and postal-orders all to be crossed and made payable to John Sykes, the manager. No carriage paid. HUDDERSFIELD HEARTHRUG COMPANY, Brook Street, HuddersfaJd. MANUFACTURE OF FELTINGS. With regard to the Patent Woolen Cloth Company, whose works are at Elmwood Mills, Camp Koad, Leeds, it may be premised that they use no looms at all. Their business is the production of feltings. These are of various kinds, and in this variety is included a number of different sorts of floor coverings, all made of felt. They comprise whole carpets, or rtrgs, stair carpets, and carpeting by the running yard, but none of the stuffs are woven. All the operations of this 294 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. manufacture are conducted under one management. The wool is taken as it comes from the bale and the finished product turned out ready for shipment. These mills sell their goods direct to distributers without the inter- vention of commission merchants. Most of their production is con- sumed in the home market, or else goes to the British Colonies. They use raw wool of almost every grade, particularly the low grades, including the by-product of the cloth-mills (as noils, waste, etc.), to- gether with tow and perhaps other materials, varying as to the quality of the goods turned out. A brief summary of the process by which the felt carpeting is made may be of interest. Much of the wool used by this company is bought washed, and goes from the bale at once to the willeying machine, where it is opened out and the fibers separated. This process is continued by another machine, termed a " teaser." From the teaser the wool is taken to the cards. The card-cylinders are* made sufficiently long and are set in the machine at right angles to their length, so that the desired width of the future piece is accommodated within the length of the cylinder, and when the material passes from the face of the cylinder it has already assumed the requisite dimension of breadth. Length and thickness remain for further operations. To these card-cylinders the wool from the teasiug-machine is fed through the medium of a trough, which automatically weighs and trans- fers the wool to the cylinders, distributing the material duly along the carding surface as it does so. The weight of the fabric is thus regu- lated, due allowance, no doubt, being made for waste and any other incident. from the first set of cards the material passes to a parallel set, whence it is taken in a thin sheet from the face of the last card-cylinder and is transferred to an arrangement in the nature of a reel, which is in width equal to the length the card-cylinder face, and revolves in the same direction as the cards. The filmy web from the cards is wound upon this reel (called an " accumulator") to the extent of sundry turns, and being then cut from the accumulator it gives a fluffy length com- prising several folds, which is eventually to go to the making of a piece of felt carpeting. This length is then wound into a roll of not immod- erate tightness, in shape somewhat like a roll of bagging, and it is then termed a bat. The bats are next placed on a machine, where the web is still further thickened by the super imposition of one layer upon another in a very ingeniously combined direct and indirect acting fashion, which it may be attempted to describe. The machine is of the same width as the preceding ones; that is to say, sufficiently wide to take the fabric flat. It has a direct action swinging screen hung above and across its length, wherefrom one web is laid down upon another, while the latter GREAT BRITAIN. 295 slowly passes across a bed-place which extends before the screen, the second web moving horizontally as to its own surface and at right angles to the direction in which the screen swings. As a consequence of these movements the web from the screen is de- livered flat upon the second web as the latter unrolls from its place at the side of the machine, and, moving across the bed-place, takes the portions deposited from the screen along with it. Thence this double web goes underneath a third roll or bat lying parallel to the side of the bed-place, and unwinding in the same direc- tion as that in which the material passing under it goes. This third web is thus deposited together with and on top of the other two combined, with which it forms a threefold strip of incipient felt. In the process just described an advantage arises with reference to the next step which is to be taken to wards con verting the raw wool into a felted fabric. The advantage is derived from the fact that during the process of carding the wool fibers have become aligned more or less regularly in the direction of the length of the band or strip, which, as indicated, comes directly from the surface of the card-cyliuders on to the accumulator, whence it is rolled into the bats with which we are now dealing. As the result, therefore, of depositing a layer from one bat (that from the screen) on the surface of the second unrolling before it, which in turn carries the first with itself beneath the third, and taking up the third becomes one thickness of three folds, we find, since the upper and lower folds have the fibers lying in the direction of their length, while the intermediate fold sets its fibers transversely to the other two, that the separate layers as regards the fibers composing them are ar- ranged in the most convenient manner for furthering the next step, viz., that of felting. This method of combining the several layers into one web, which is quite automatic, facilitates also the use in order to obtain a cheaper product of material inside the fabric different in character from what is shown on the exterior. Tow, for example, in some of the lower classes of goods may be em- ployed to make the interior layer, or an inferior grade of wool may be put in for mass and weight, but at much less cost. At the stage where we have now arrived we have a broad baud of carded wool (intermixed material not now reckoned with) which, as we have seen, is composed as follows : First, the thin film from the cards folded several times upon itself by being reeled off the card cylinder face on to the accumulator. Next the material taken from the accu- mulator and formed into a roll or bat, and of these bats three combined by superimposition, as already explained. So that the thickness of the band of material as it now stands is made up of three layers ; each of these layers combines several thinner ones in form as the stuff came from the cards arid further the wool fibers in the three final layers are 296 CLBPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. duly set in counter directions within the body of the web all ready for the felting to take place. The felting is effected by one of two machines used for the purpose. In one of these machines the surface of the web as it unwinds from the roll which has been formed from the separate bats is passed across a series of small revolving cylinders set close together in the same hori- zontal plane. These small rollers in revolving slightly engage the lower surface of the web as it goes over them gently subtending the material in the direction of its length, and at the same time by a movement hor- izontally transverse to the direction in which their own revolution oc- curs and in which the web also is traveling they combine a slight cross- wise oscillating motion with the other. The resultant agitation causes the felting of the fibers. This latter movement of the rollers is accomplished by means of re- ciprocating attachments fixed at the ends of the separate rollers, which attachments slide the rollers back and forth in their beds as they revolve, and combining with the rotary motion of the rollers set up an action, half of rubbing, half of shaking, operating on the lower surface of the web, and, as already stated, producing in the body of the web that in- terlocked condition of the fibers which is known as " felted." Steam is passed through the material during the course of the felting process in in order to facilitate the interlacing of the fibers. This is done with each of the felting machines. The second felting machine referred to is in the nature of a long flat frame, on and to which four rolls of webs are fed simultaneously. The sheets unwinding from these rolls pass horizontally under a square press, which forms part of the machine and is composed of a number of small panels. The four sheets go under the press together, but are kept separate from one another by strips of like width of stout linen cloth, which separate them while permitting free action to the press. As this quad- ruple length of the webs, with the intervening folds of the linen, comes into position underneath the press the machine pauses for a moment, then the plate descends upon the four-ply mass below and proceeds to slowly shake itself down and upon it with a peculiar pulverizing sort of motion which is hard to describe, but which results in concerting the previously open-textured substance into closely matted felt. As in the other machine, steam is used in this one, also, in order to expedite the felting. At this stage the mechanical constitution of the fabric may be considered pretty nearly complete. It has still, however, to be milled. This is done in tubs, or stocks, as they are called, where the long pieces after being soaped are beaten with wooden hammers set in motion by steam-power, and working in some of the tubs perpendicularly, in some horizontally. The pieces are afterwards washed and are then either dyed or printed or finished plain. GREAT BRITAIN. 297 In printing' the carpets hand-stamps are used. In this operation the sheet of felt having be^ii spread upon a table the printer impresses the pattern from a wooden stamp covered with pigment and struck with the closed hand or with a mallet. The stamps are about 12 by 14 inches on the face, and the pattern is produced over the whole surface by repeated applications in a continuous succession. Where, as is usually the case, more than one color is required a series of stamps are imployed, a separate stamp for each successive color being used to superimpose its portion of the design over those already impressed upon the fabric, with proper reference, of course, to the combined effect 5 the method be- ing much like that in use for lithographic printing. In order to remedy imperfections a workman, after the stamping is done, goes over the surface carefully, and where he finds the color de- fective supplies the deficiency by the aid of a little trowel and some extra coloring matter. The stamped surface is then dusted over with sawdust and the pieces hung on screens, which, after being folded into comparatively small compass, are shifted as they stand into a hot-air bath to dry the fabric and fix the colors. The plain-dyed stuffs are passed through a finishing machine, where a sharp revolving knife trims the surface to smoothness. Exclusive of the printing department, which is nearly all piece-work, the Patent Woolen Cloth Company employs about two hundred and fifty hands. Women, fillers or feeders, of whom not many are employed, earn about 9*. ($2.19) per week; boys, 8s. to 15s. ($1.95 to $3.65) ; willeyers and hardeners, fettlers, etc., including stackers. 18s. to 22s. or 24s. per week (84.38 to $5.35 or $5.84) $ foremen, of minor importance, 28s. to 30s. ($6.81 to $7.30) ; skilled mechanics are paid according to merit and trade usages, presumably higher rates than those mentioned. The company consumes about 30,000 to 40,000 pounds of material weekly, which, however, is of very mixed character and indeterminate from week to week in respect of value. F. H. WlGFALL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Leeds, November 14, 1889. LEITH. i:i;ri nninf/i weaving. — In these establishments only tho weaving is done. The dyeing and spinning are conducted by others quite inde- pendently of the carpet manufactories. Placing the product on the market. — The product is sold directly here in Milan, for the most part. Giacoinini has also a traveling agent for Italy. Exportation. — The products of these establishments are not exported. In this connection I may mention, as of interest for carpet manufact- urers, the fact that a considerable exportation of Italian hemp carpet yarn from this district has sprung up in the last two years, the amount realizing $92,594.52 for the year ending June 30, 1888, and $83,687.58 for the year ending June 30, 1889. HENRY C. CROUCH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Milan, August 8, 1889. ROME. REPORT BY VICE-CONSUL-GENERAL WOOD. MILLS AND LOOMS. There is only one factory or establishment engaged in the manufact- ure of carpets in this province. The proper address is, Gr. Canestrelli, carpet manufacturer, via Garibaldi, Rome, Italy. It has twenty-five hand looms. No power looms are used. GRADE OF CARPETS. It manufactures exclusively Kidderminster piece carpets, of which it produces about 218,724 yards per year. WORKERS AND WAGES. Sixty persons find wage employment in the above mentioned estab- lishment— ten men and fifty women. They are all paid by the job or piece. The daily rates of wages earned are from 58 to 97 cents for men, and from 49 to 58 cents for women. They all work from eight to ten hours per day and lead a laborious life. The cost of living to these persons is said to nearly, if not entirely, absorb their wages. No work is done outside the factory. •306 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. DYEING, WARPING, AND WEAVING. Dyeing, warping, and weaving are united interests, all carried on by the same manufacturer, and are all done within the establishment. The yarn, however, is all imported already spun. HOW THE PRODUCT IS MARKETED. The product is by the manufacturer turned over to the firm of F. & A. Cagiate, 249 to 254, via del Oorso, of this city. This firm contracts to take the entire product. No commission agents are employed. WHERE THE PRODUCT FINDS CONSUMPTION. Two-thirds of the product is consumed in the province of Borne, and the remainder in other parts of Italy. There is no exportation. IMPORTS AND EXPORTS OF CARPETS. In connection with this subject it may be interesting to know the foreign commerce in carpets relating to the province of Eome and also to the entire Kingdom. The most recent statistics show that this trade in 1886 and 1887 was as follows : Description. Imports. Exports. 1886. ]887. 1886. 1887. Pound e. Province of Rome : Carpets of woolen waste shoddy etc Pounds. 762 126, 571 44. 320 856, 422 Pounds. 1,025 136, 795 63, 063 898, 317 Pounds. Carpets and blankets of wool, etc Kingdom of Italy : Carpets of woolen waste, shoddy, etc Carpets and blankets of wool, etc 22,711 36, 382 18, 522 54, 022 In explanation of the comparative unimportance of the carpet indus- try in Italy, it is well to remember that, with the exception of certain northern parts of the Kingdom, all houses are built with flooring of tiles, stone, or mosaic; and that this flooring, owing to traditions and climatic reasons, is generally left uncovered. CHARLES M. WOOD, % Vice- Consul- General. CONSULATE-GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES, Rome, August 24, 1889. S\\TJ/KRL\ND AND H'KKKY IN ASIA. 307 SWITZERLAND. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL WASHBURN, OF JiERNE. In answer to your circular of Juue 10, 1889, I have instituted careful inquiry into the subject of carpet manufacture in Switzerland. The result is well expressed in a letter on the subject from the " Union Suisse du Commerce et de FIndustrie," whose headquarters are at Zurich, of which the following is a free translation : Your honored communication of the 28th ultimo has led us to make inquiries which enable us to state that carpet manufacturing is not carried on in Switzerland. Never- theless, some years ago attempts were made in the neighborhood of St. Galle to in- troduce the industry of carpet- weaving, but with no permanent result. In any case, any efforts in this direction which may still exist are not worth naming. JOHN D. WASHBURN, Consul- Genera I. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Berne, July 9, 1889. TURKEY IN ASIA. ASIA MINOR. REPORT BT CttXsn. EMMKT, OF SMYRNA. Factories. — There are no factories, mills, or distinct establishments properly so-called in the districts of Asia Minor where carpets are woven. Looms. — Nearly every house at Ushak, Ghiordes, and Coula has a loom ; some have even two or three. These belong to the owners of the houses themselves. The weavers are all women and girls. The mis- tress of the house superintends the work of her daughters, or hired journey women and apprentices. The looms are of wood, roughly fash- ioned. A vertical or slightly inclined frame supports two horizontal rollers about five feet apart; the warp divided into two sets of strands by leashes fastened to a horizontal pole is wound around the upper roller and the ends secured to the lower one, from which the work is begun, and on which the carpet is rolled in the process of manufacture. The weavers kneel or sit cross-legged to their work side by side, each taking about two feet of carpet width. The tufts that form the pil? and pattern are tied to the warp in rows, and the woof is passed ovor with the hand after every row without the help of a shuttle; the pile and woof being then driven together or beaten down with a heavy wooden comb, and the tufts clipped smooth with shears of native make. Above the weavers are suspended the bobbins of colored yarn iron 308 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. which the pile tufts are cut. There are now from 800 to 900 looms at Ushak, all worked by private owners in the court-yards or main room of their houses. At Ghiordes the number of looms is estimated to be about 300; at Coula, to be about 200. GRADES OF CARPETS PRODUCED. The proportion at Ushak is 70 per cent, fully of carpets to 30 per cent, of rugs and mats. The carpets vary in size from 12 feet by 9 feet to 50 feet by 25 feet, and in a few exceptional instances more. For a very large carpet, exceeding the last-mentioned dimension, a special loom would have to be constructed. The mats and rugs vary in size from 2 feet 9 inches by 1 foot 6 inches, to 11 feet by 8 feet. At Ghiordes it is estimated that the manufacture of carpets and lugs is about the same as at Ushak, while at Coula the proportion of mats and rugs is much larger, and it would not be an overestimate to say that 80 per cent, of rugs and mats to 20 per cent, of carpets is the correct output of that section. The bulk of the looms at Coula are not wider than 5 to 7 feet. LABOR AND WAGES. At Ushak, the number employed in the manufacture of carpets and rugs, including the dyers, is from 5,000 to 6,000. At Ghiordes and and Coula the number varies from 1,500 to 2,000 hands each. Forty- four rows of pile are considered an average day's work, for which an ordinary weaver gets about 8 to 10 cents a day. Hours of labor from seven to eight per day, according to the season of the year. The weavers live in the most frugal manner; a meal consisting of bread, cheese, and a raw onion, is considered a good one. The number of hands at work varies according to the season, as many work in the fields in summer and manufacture carpets in winter. CONDITION OF THE INDUSTRY. At Ushak the dyeing, save in rare instances, is no longer performed by the weavers themselves, as in former times, but is carried &n by a separate class (of men). Spinning is carried on by elderly women at odd moments, when not occupied with their household duties. The yarn is loosely spun, so as to allow the fibers to mix slightly together in the pattern and present a blended appearance. The washing of the wool is performed by men in the streams and combed and spun by women. The bulk of the wool is spun in the outlying villages of Ushak, etc. At Ghiordes the division of labor is similar to that of Ushak, while at Coula the spinning and dyeing is usually done by the weavers them- TURKEY IN ASIA ASIA MINOR. 309 MAKKF/IING THE PRODUCTS. The carpet merchants in Smyrna have native agents at Ushak, Ghi- ordes, and Coula, who act as intermediaries between said merchants and the owners of the looms. These native agents are paid a commission varying from 3 to 4 per cent., and their duties consist in superintend- ing the carpets while in process of manufacture and accepting and de- livering the same when completed. Advances are usually made to the owners of the looms, but total pay- ment is not effected until the carpet is taken from the loom and meas- ured. The price is fixed per Turkish arsheen or pike of 26§ inches square. WHERE THE PRODUCTS FIND CONSUMPTION. The bulk of the carpets and rugs made in the interior are for export and a very small portion of the whole remain in the country. Ushak turns out about 300,000 arsheeus or pikes of carpets and rugs per aiiimin. Ghiordes and Demardjik about 65,000 pikes; Goula 20,000 pikes. England imports about two-thirds of the whole product. America ranks next in importance, then France and Austria, and lastly, German3T and Italy. The Smyrna carpet dealers are either the special agents of the Eu- ropean consuming firms, and as such charge a commission varying from 3 to 5 per cent., or else they submit firm offers free onboard at Smyrna, which would include such remuneration as they are able to secure for themselves. The prices are regulated per arsheen or pike of 26f inches square- about 5 square feet. W. G. EMMET, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Smyrna, November 22, 1889. SIVAS. REPORT BY CONSUL JEWETT. Owing to the want of any system of collecting statistics by the gov- ernment or otherwise, it is impossible to give any very definite replies to the questions asked as to the number of establishments, looms, and persons employed in the manufacture of carpets. The carpets and rugs manufactured in this are, of course, only those known as Turkish. They are entirely of wool. The industry is carried on by families in their own houses. There are no factories. It is im- possible to say how many persons are employed. In almost every vil- ."HO CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. lage there are a number of families who make carpets. Hand-looms only are used. Most of the work is done by women and young girls. There is no system of rate of wages or hours of labor. The manner of living is the same as with all others of the laboring classes. Their food consists largely of rice and crushed wheat with meat (mutton) at rarest intervals. Three to four piasters (14 to 19 cents) is considered a good day's wages. Cost of living probably does not exceed 12 cents per day. The dyeing, spinning, weaving, etc., are all conducted unitedly, the women of each family engaged in the business doing all the work from the spinning of the yarn by hand, dyeing it with vegetable dyes, to the weaving and completion of the carpet. The carpets seldom exceed 8 by 4 feet in size. The product is sold usually at home, being placed on the market by the makers going from house to house, or by sending the carpets to Constantinople to be sold in the bazaars. There has recently been started in this city by two or three families the manufacture of a new style of carpet which is quite remarkable for the beauty and novelty of the patterns and the excellence of the finish. The prices asked for these are higher than has been usual, and average about 32 cents per square foot. It may be observed here that the common people invest their savings in carpets as the people of other countries do in savings-banks, hand- ing them down from father to son, and selling one when hard pressed for money, so that one is often surprised to find in the poorest of houses a collection of very valuable rugs. H. M. JEWETT, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Siva*, July 22, 1889. SYRIA. REPORT BY CONSUL BISSINGER, OF BEIRUT. The carpet industry in Syria is still in a most primitive stat$ , as will be observed from the following responses to the several interrogatories : I. — NUMBER OF MILLS, ETC. There are no manufactories or establishments in the sense that these words are understood in industrial centers. Carpets are exclusively made by peasant women and girls, residing in villages located within the political subdivisions known as u Hakkar," " Hossu," " Safita," and " Hazzoor," in the Mutessarrifiate of Tripoli, Syria. The most important of these villages — about a dozen in number — is doubtless that of Haidamoor, about 30 miles east of Tripoli, which Tl.'KKEY IN ASIA SYRIA. 311 seems to excel all others in tbe quality, durability, and design of the carpets it produces. There is also a good quality of rugs made in a village called Fakeh or Fiki, which are marketed at from 88 to $20 per piece. Fakeh is dis- tant about 25 miles from Baalbek, and politically belongs to the dis- trict of the same name in the Vilayet of Syria. II. — LOOM^, ETC. Power looms do not exist in Syria, and, although it has not been possible to ascertain the precise number of "hand7' looms, it may be ap- proximately stated as 350 in all. They are of the simplest construc- tion, and are thus described by eye-witnesses : Small pegs to which yarns of desired colors are attached are driven close together into the ground. The yarn is carried along the ground the required length and fastened to a corresponding row of pegs. Be- ginning at the left hand the threads are separated with a strip of board of various widths, generally, however, about 4 inches, which permits the tossing of a ball of the woof; no shuttles are used, a simple ball of yarn replacing them. This board is then advanced about a foot and turned on its Hat side, the operator taking a coarse wooden comb to bring the woof together, a rather long and tedious process. One operator ^an scarcely make more than 3 or 4 inches of carpet per diem ; but if exceptionally skillful, may succeed in accomplishing 6 inches. To make the average-sized carpet, for instance, of 3 pics or 2J yards long by 2 pics, 1J yards wide, would consume at least six weeks of continuous or uninterrupted work, which is not possible, as the operator is a woman who has domestic duties to perform, besides devoting much time to field labor, such as sowing, reaping, etc., at certain seasons of the year. Every loom has a female attendant or worker, who is sometimes as. sisted by a young girl, and the carpet industry in Syria is exclusively in the hands of women. Most of the rugs are made with a small square of some decided color, generally blue upon a black ground, placed in a very conspicuous place, intended to ward off the "evil eye." III.— GRADES OF CARPETS. All the carpets produced in Syria are made of upure" wool of the ordinary quality grown in the country. IV.— NUMBER OF PERSONS EMPLOYED, ETC. The number of persons engaged iu the carpet-making in the Tripoli district is problematical, but probably does not exceed 500. As there are no factories, and every woman works on her own account, no wages are received or paid; the assistant, if more than one person is engaged upou a single loom, generally being the child of the operator, as has 312 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. been seen in Answer II. These women do not and can not devote their entire time and attention to the carpet industry, and they are therefore not very efficient in this handicraft. V.— DYEING, SPINNING, WEAVING, ETC. Cleaning the wool, dyeing, spinning, and weaving it is the exclusive work of women, conducted separately and by independent interests. VI. — HOW THE PRODUCT IS MARKETED. Fairs are periodically held in uCalaat-el-Hosson," i.e., "Hosson-el- Akrad," notably on "St. George's feast" (April 23), on the " feast of the cross" (September 14), in the convent of St. George, and in the con- vent of St. Elijah at Safita, where merchants from Tripoli, Horns, and Hainath gather to make purchases. To these fairs the husbands, brothers, or other relatives of the women operators bring their rugs, where they are readily disposed of at prices much below those that are usually asked of brokers, who sometimes travel to the villages where they are made expecting to secure bargains. As has already been said, the rngs that come from the village of Haidamoor are superior to all others, and command much better prices, sometimes as much as 25 per cent. If carpets or rugs of a special size are desired they must be made to order. The square pic — three-quarters of a yard — is worth from 50 to 60 piasters ($2.20 to $2.64) if made at Haidamoor, and 40 to 50 piasters ($1.76 to $2.20) for those coming from other villages. These rates, of course, are subject to changes, according to design, cost, and quantity of wool used, etc. This latter is about 9£ rottles, or 19 okes (53^ pounds j 1 oke = 2£ pounds) for a carpet 3 pics (2J yards) long and 2 pics (1£ yards) wide. VII. — WHERE THE PRODUCTS FIND CONSUMPTION. Unless picked up by tourists in their voyages along the coast, these rugs are exclusively marketed in Turkey by merchants from Tripoli, Horns, and Hamath. HISTORY OF CARPET-MAKING IN SYRIA. Early in this century a nuuiber of people from the vicinity of Broussa emigrated to the Tripoli and Hamath Mutessarriflates, in Syria. These people were familiar with the art of making rugs and introduced this industry into the various villages in which they settled. The village of Haidamoor became especially celebrated for its rugs, and many specimens remain to testify to the beauty of design and color. Strange as it may appear, however, the present inhabitants of this village, who are the largest producers of carpets in that vicinity, have entirely lost the original designs and coloring introduced by their Turkish ances- tors. TURKEY IN ASIA SYRIA. The rugs made to-day are of very inferior designs as compared with the ancient ones ; the prevailing colors are usually red and black, varied occasionally crimson and black, with black or dark brown figures at both ends. In one village, distant about 10 miles from Haidainocr, the colors which predominate are red and green with white borders, having white circles about 2 inches in diameter with either red or green centers. A rude sort of carpet is the specialty of another village; it is from 20 to 30 feet long and 4 feet wide, made in stripes about 2 inches wide of brown color, alternating with a dingy yellow, black, and a dirty white, the white and black being the natural colors of the wool. The deterioration in design may perhaps be due to the fact that the rug-makers use no pattern to guide them, depending entirely upon memory, often treacherous ; and being a simple, uneducated people, they have gradually but irretrievably lost the original art. Until quite recently a beautiful rug of a brown or velvety black was manufactured, but is no longer to be seen ; the color with which to dye the wool was obtained by digging shallow holes in winter streams. In the spring or summer, when the streams were dry, the peasants re- moved the earth collected therein, which, after repeated washings, produced a beautiful and indelible pigment. The custom has now utterly fallen in disuse, because cheap coloring matter can be secured from France, which has of course greatly deteriorated the quality, beauty, and durability of the rugs and lessened their commercial value correspondingly. Blue, green, red, old gold, orange, and other colors were formerly extracted from roots, leaves, and barks of trees in the most primitive manner, but the introduction of cheap foreign dye-stuffs have now com- pletely superseded them. Bugs vary in size from 2 feet square to 3 feet wide by 12 feet long. E. BISSINGER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Beirut, September 18, 1889. [Inclosure in Consul Bissinger's Report] CARPET W HAVING BY THE NOMADS. Report prepared by Consul Kissinger from material furnished by Commercial Agent PocJie, of Aleppo. Carpets are made to some extent in the valley of Amouk by the Ribanlis, a semi- nomadic tribe, a fraction of tbe great family of Turcomans, wbo also are engaged in tbe weaving of this article in the country surrounding Marasb, Behesne, and AdiyriixMi. The carpet industry is not known at all at Aleppo, nor in any of tbe towns of the Aleppo vilayet. 514 CAKPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Nowhere among these semi-nomadic tribes do there exist any workshops, or any regularly organized systems of carpet making, but it is still performed in the most primitive manner, and exclusively by women, who, after shearing the sheep belong- ing to their families, select the quantity of wool which they consider necessary, and after thoroughly cleaning, washing and combing the same, spin it with the distaff, and dye it the various colors required. The looms which these women make use of are formed of two wooden cross-bars, separated by two smaller parallel ones. It is upon this rude scaffolding, placed per- pendicularly, that the warp is put, while the operation of weaving is by means of a ball of woof without the aid of a shuttle. To give statistics respecting the quantity of carpets thus produced would be im- possible, as nothing can determine, with any degree approaching precision, a produc- tion which follows the producers thereof in their wanderings about the country looking after pastures for their sheep and woik for their camels. This is also the reason why these carpets are sold throughout Asia Minor, now here, now there, by persons who follow these tribes in their peregrinations and purchase their product from them, which is not known to be exported. ERHARD BISSINGER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Beirut, September 18, 1889. PERSIA. REPORT KY CONSUL-GENERAL BENJAMIN, OF TEHERAN. [From Consular Reports, No. 42, Vol. 13.] PERSIAN CARPETS AND RUGS. I have the honor to submit herewith some remarks upon the carpet manufacture and trade of Persia, which forms one of the most impor- tant features of its industries and commerce. It is doubtless generally known that the Persian carpets and rugs are not in the ordinary sense of the term manufactured ; that is, they are not produced by any regular and complicated machinery, such as is capable of repeating the same design ad libitum. The weaving of these fabrics rather suggest large needlework, in which the worker, conscious of his innate sense of the beautiful, allows a lively fancy to guide the ready fingers, and is satisfied with irregularities in the detail sometimes, provided the general effect is agreeable and artistic. The carpets of Persia are rarely of large size, and they are woven chiefly by the women and children of the peasantry in the villages. A countryman will thus have a rug made in his own house, and when it is done he takes it to the neighboring city and sells it for what he can get after long bargaining. The rooms of the peasantry are small, and this doubtless has something to do with regulating the size of most of the rugs in the Persian market. But a large house in Manchester, which has several branch houses in Persia, has entered so largely into PERSIA. 315 the practice of ordering carpets for the ftneigu market that for several years the average size of Persian carpets exported to Europe has been larger than the sizes preferred by Persians. This firm has not only paid 2 or 3 krans more than the usual price a square yard, but it has established the practice of making advances to the workmen. This has enabled the latter to erect special rooms of large size, where car- pets can be made especially suited for European buyers. The volume of the trade is doubtless increased by the course adopted by this house, while it may be questioned whether the special qualities of design in- stinctively followed by the exquisite aesthetic perceptions of the Per- sians may not lose a certain spontaneity and beauty which constitutes the most prominent features of all Persian work of originality and merit. Most of the carpets made for this house are made in the prov- ince of Irak, and especially in the city of SultanabadJ but the carpets of Persia are woven in almost every province of the empire. At the same time there has gradually grown up a system or classification in the making of these fabrics which is quite remarkable, when one con- siders that they are manufactured without concerted action or the aid of capita], excepting, of course, the above-mentioned practice of ad- vances. The carpet industry of Persia is divisible into three leading classes, the large-sized and the small carpets or rugs and the ghilems, to which may be added a fourth, consisting of theumads or felt carpets. Most of the carpets intended for covering floors, of whatever size, are pro- duced in the central province of Irak, and chiefly at the city of Sultan- a bad, and in the districts of Sarraveud and Garrouste and Malahir. These carpets go by the generic term pharaghan. They are more solid and massive than other Persian carpets, capable for long use and fitted for apartments of size. For ten years past these pharaghan fabrics have been exported in large and increasing quantities. Large Persian carpets which deviate from the usual oblong shape are made to order and cost 3 to 4 kraus a square yard above the average expense. This is partly owing to the increased difficulties of weaving such dimensions with the simple appliances in use and the size of the rooms in the houses of the peasantry. Besides the pharaghan carpets, floors are also carpeted sometimes with fabrics from Kerwaushab, Hawadan, and the district of Lauristan. Also for this purpose the carpets of Mech-Kabad, in Khorassen, are available, although of inferior texture to the pharaghan. The carpets of Kerwan have also the texture fitted to the rough usage required in covering floors; but while perhaps of superior quality to the pharaghan, r.hey arc always small and proportionately more expensive. The Persian carpet par excellence is the rug. The Persians use these in preference to large sizes. First covering the earth floor with a has- seer or matting of split reeds, they layover it numerous rigs, which completely conceal the mat. This arrangement, when composed of 17A 1 316 CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. rugs of harmonious designs, is very rich, while the cost is actually less than if one large carpet were employed instead. The varieties or distinct classes of Persian rugs are numerous. In some classes, like the Turkowan, there is general similarity of design, although no two rugs are altogether identical. But in other classes, such as the rugs of Kerwan, Dyochegan, or Kurdistan, there is endless variety in design and texture. A point to be considered in this connection is the* fact that while the small carpets of Persia go under the general designation of rugs it would be a serious mistake to consider them all as merely carpets of small size intended to be trod on by heavy shoes. In the first place, Persians when at home take off their shoes, and thus a carpet of fine, delicate woof and design will last for ages and actually improve with use such as this. In the second place, a large proportion of the rugs of Persia, and especially tiie finer grades, are never intended to be laid on the floor, but to cover divans or tables, or to hang as tapestries and portieres. This explains the extreme fineness of texture and velvety surface which many of these rugs display, and also accounts for the fringe at the ends. Some of the rugs of Kerwan are almost as fine as cashmere shawls. The designs of these rugs were formerly of a large pattern with a general ground of red, white, or some other uniform tint, with borders and details of minute tracery harmonizing with rather than disturbing the general effect. These patterns are unquestionably of higher artistic importance, exhibiting a quality designated by artists as breadth. At present, while there is apparently no difference in texture, there is an evident tendency towards smaller designs, which lose much of the effect unless seen with close inspection. Perhaps this is only the result of a reaction from long-established custom, and it must be conceded that the modern designs of Persian rugs are more popular with the average European and American buyer. The colors formerly employed in the rags of Persia were imperish- able. Bugs one hundred years old show no deterioration in tint, but rather a softness such as old paintings assume. The introduction of aniline dyes art one time threatened to ruin the manufacture of textile fabrics in Persia, but the law against the employment of aniline dyes enacted by the Persian Government is enforced with some rigor. The Turkoman rugs, in some respects unsurpassed for texture and pecul- iar beauty of design, are unfortunately not made within the Shah's dominions, but over the border, although they are 4ucl tided among the classes of Persian rugs, because the Turkomans were until recently subject to Persia. The Turkoman carpet weavers show a serious dis- position to use aniline dyes, as the prevailing color of the Turkoman rugs is red. This is especially to *be deplored. The fraud, tor it can be hardly called by a lesser term in connection with elegant fabrics, PERSIA. 317 can be detected when the eye is iii doubt by the application of a wet cloth to the suspected tint. There is one species of rug which appears to be peculiar to this region in the texture, which suggests knitted rather than woven work. This species of rug is called ghileem. The pattern is identical on both sides, allowing the use of either side, which practically doubles the use. Many of these ghileems are made in the province of Kurdistan. The colors arc at once tirm and brilliant and the designs often of extraordinary beauty. The lightness and flexibility of these carpets qualify them for portieres, table and sofa covers, and at the same time render them easy for transportation. In consequence large quantities have been exported and found favor in Europe. The ghileems of Shuster are preferable for portieres. Considering their beauty their cost is comparatively moder- ate. The Garrouste ghileems are well suited for curtain hangings. Those of Lauristan and Zereud, near Teheran, are preferable for carpet- ings, while the ghileeras of Kermaushah excel perhaps for the originality and beauty of their patterns. The namads or felt carpets of Persia, although produced by a process which perhaps excludes them from the list of strictly textile fabrics, may yet properly be considered in this report. The namad is made by forming a frame of the thickness intended or excavating a place jn the ground floor of the size and depth equivalent to the namad intended. The hair is laid in this and beaten with mallets until -the original dis- jointed mass has obtained cohesion and is reduced to the dimensions of the frame. A design of colored threads is beaten into the upper surface, sometimes quite effective. The namad, however, is desirable less for its beauty than the complete sense of comfort which it affords. It is much thicker than other carpets, and the sensation to the tread is luxurious. No carpet has ever been manufactured that is more suitable for the comfort of a sleeping- room in winter. Of course there is a difference in the quality of these namads, but the dearest are far cheaper than the same surface of carpets or rugs woven in the usual style. The great weight and clumsiness of the namads must unfortunately prevent their exportation to any extent until the means of transport are improved. The best quality of namad is made at Isfahan, but the most massive are produced at Yezd. One would imagine that the size of the uamad must necessarily be limited. But on the contrary the regular Persian carpets rarely equal and never exceed the dimensions of some namads. The namad is more often than the carpets intended to cover an entire floor, elegant rugs being laid over it in places. I have seen a namad 75 feet long by nearly 40 feet wide in one piece. There is one species of rug special to Persia often spoken of but rarely seen. I refer to the rugs made of silk. It is not uncommon to see rugs of the finer types with silken fringes and sometimes with a woof of silk in the body of the rug. But all silk rugs are rare, and rarer now than formerly. They are generally small and intended for luxury rathei than 318 CAKPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. use. The price is necessarily very high. The chief of the merchants of Teheran told me of one he had seen over a tombj it was barely two square yards in size 5 but he said that 200 tomans or $360 would be a low price for it. Regarding the ruling prices of Persian carpets it is impossible to give more than approximate estimates. Such matters as standard values hardly exist in Persia. The individuality of each rug adds to the diffi- culty. Goods are sold for what they will bring. One day a merchant sells an article at a loss; the next day, perhaps, a lucky customer will give him a handsome profit for a similar article. He averages the profit and loss, and, if shrewd, by the end of the year manages to have the balance in his favor. But small profits are the rule, and such a thing as a fixed price is utterly unheard of. Members of old or prominent families are often obliged to realize on carpets or embroideries or other articles, which are both rare and costly. They intrust these articles to a dellab or peddler to sell on commission. In such cases articles worth 100 tomans are often sold for 30 to 40 tomans. As a large part of the trade in the cities is doue by the dellas this natur- ally has a tendency to keep down prices. The carpets ordered and sold by the Ziegler Company follow more uniform rates; but in all other cases it is impossible to affirm that one can ascertain more than the probable market value of Persian carpets and rugs in Persia. It may be stated, however, that a buyer experienced in Oriental ways can purchase good rugs in Persia at such rates as to leave a fair margin for good profits in America over and above the cost, transportation and duties included. The European demand for old Persian carpets has so far fallen off as to leave but a poor market for those which are much worn or decayed. But there seems to be an increasing demand on the part of connoisseurs and amateurs for the better grades of well preserved antique rugs of Persia. Their artistic qualities are so undeniable that they must al- ways be in fashion for almost every class of household decoration, while their texture and durability well suits them to impart an air of comfort to interiors. S. G. W» BENJAMIN, Consul- General, UNITED STATES CONSULATE:GENEBAL, Teheran, A.pril 29, 1884. EGYPT AM) BRITISH INDIA. 319 EGYPT. REPORT />')- VONSUL-ffENERAJt SOHUYLER, OF CAIRO. There is little to be said about the carpet trade of Egypt. In certain parts of the country a few carpets of coarse quality are still made in private houses. A few years ago there existed a manufactory in Boulak, one of the suburbs of Cairo, but this has been closed. Cairo is still one of the headquarters for the sale of carpets, Eastern make, whether imported here for the purpose of catching the eye of the traveler, or whether coming from stores already accumulated, or the possessions of rich houses. In the year 1888 there were imported into Egypt 24,546 carpets and rugs, worth $110,485, of which 21,802, worth $107,055, came from Alge- ria, Morocco, India. Persia, and Turkey; the small remainder from Europe. In 1888 there were also imported 186,5sO yards of carpeting, worth $76,685, chiefly from England. In the same year there were exported from Egypt 1,020 carpets and rugs, worth $8,065, and there were re-exported 6,377 rugs and carpets, worth $25,600. EUGENE SCHUYLER, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Cairo, October 19, 1889. BRITISH INDIA. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL BONHAM, OF CALCUTTA. There are no mills or factories proper in British India where carpets are manufactured as in Europe, and the only industry of that kind in this country is carried on by the natives with the aid of very rude and primitive hand looms, which have been in vogue from time immemorial. Some very fine rugs and center pieces are manufactured in this way in different parts of India, some small consignments of which are occa- sionally shipped to the United States. It is really wonderful that such fine work can be produced with such simple appliances ; but the modus operandi is more like knitting or crochet work than weaving, and serves to illustrate the patience and artistic skill of these peculiar people. B. F. BONHAM, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Calcutta, July 26, 1889. INDEX. Page. Apprentices and piece-work in France . 277 Employe's, statistics relating to, in — Austria-Hungary 272 France 270 St. Etienne 280 Germany : AixlaCbapelle 281 Barmen 284 Great Britain : Leeds 289 Holland 301 Italy: Florence 304 Lombardy 305 Rome 305 Turkey in Asia: Asia Minor 308 Sivas 310 Syria 311 Feltings, manufacture of, in Leeds 293-297 Hours of labor in— Austria-Hungary 272 F^ince 277 St. Etienne 28i Germany : AixlaChapelle 281 Gera !... 287 Great Britain : Leeds ^ 291 Holland 301 ' Italy: Florence 304 Lombardy 305 Rome 305 Turkey in Asia : Asia Minor 308 Sivas 310 How the industry is conducted in — Austria-Hungary 273 France (cheapening labor) 279 St. Etienne 280 322 INDEX. How the industry is conducted iu— Continued. Germany : Page. AixlaChapelle.... 282 Barmen .* 284 Gera-..- 288 Great Britain : Leeds 291 Holland 302 Italy : Florence 304 Lombardy *. 305 Rome 306 Turkey in Asia : Asia Minor 308 Sivas 310 Syria 312 How the work-people live iu — Austria-Hungary ^ 273 France : 278 St. Etienne _ 280 Germany : AixlaChapelle 282 Gera.. 288 Great Britain : Leeds 291 Holland 302 Italy : Florence 304 Rome t 305 Turkey in Asia : Asia Minor 308 Sivas 310 Syria 312 Grades of carpet manufactured in — Austria-Hungary 271 France f 27G St. Etienne 280 Germany : AixlaChapelle 281 Barmen 283 Gera - 280 Great Britain : Leeds , 289-291 Holland ^.301,303 Italy: Florence 304 Lombardy - 304 Rome 305 Turkey in Asia : Asia Minor ...T 308 Sivas 309 Syria 311 Imports and exports of carpet into and from Italy 30d Looms, number and kinds, in — Austria- 11 ungnry 271 INDEX. 323 Looms, number and kinds, in— Continued. Page. France „ 276 St. Etienne 280 Germany : Aix la Chapelle 281 Barmen 283 Gera 284 Great Britain : Leeds 289 Holland 301,302 Italy : Florence 304 Lombardy 304 Rome 305 Turkey in Asia : AsiaMinor 307 Sivaa 310 Syria 311 Marketing the product in — Austria-Hungary * 273 France 279 St. Etienne 280 Germany : Aix la Chapelle 282 Barmen 284 Gera 288 Great Britain : Leeds 291 Holland 302 Italy : Florence 304 Lombardy 305 Rome 306 Turkey in Asia : Asia Minor 309 Sivas 310 Syria 312 Mill machinery in Germany 287 Mills and establishments in — Austria-Hungary 261 France 276 St. Etienne fc 280 Germany : Aix la Chapelle « 281 Barmen 283 Gera » 285 Great Britain : Leeds 289 Leith 297 Holland 301,303 Italy : Florence 304 Lombardy 304 Rome 305 17A 5 324 INDEX Millc and establishments in— Turkey in Asia : Page.- Asia Minor 307 Sivas 309 Syria 310 Price-lists, Huddersfield 292 Syria, history of carpet-making in 312 carpet-weaving by the Nomads 313 Wages in — Austria-Hungary 272 France 276 St. Etienne 280' Germany : Aixla Chapelle 281 Barmen 284 Gera 287 Great Britain : Leeds 290 Holland 301 Italy: Florence". 304 Lombardy 305 Rome 305- Turkey in Asia : Asia Minor 308 Sivas 31fr Where the product finds consumption — Austro-Hungarian 274 British : Leeds 291 Dutch 301 French 279- St. Etienne 280 German : Aix laChapelle 282 Barmen 284 Gera 288 Italian : Florence 304 Lombardy 305 Rome 306 Turkish : Asia Minor 309 Sivas 310 ,,, * 312 SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. MALT AND BEER SPANISH AMERICA. REPORTS FROM THE CONSULS OF THE UNITED STATES ON THE TRADE IN MALT AND BEER IN THEIR SEVERAL DISTRICTS, IN ANSWER TO A CIRCULAR FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE. ISSUED FROM THE BUREAU OF STATISTICS, DEPARTMENT OF STATE. ALL BEQUESTS FOR THESE REPORTS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE SECRETARY OF STATE. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1890. MALT AND BEER CIRCULAR. DEPARTMENT OF STATE, Washington, December 15, 1889. To the Consular Officers of the United States in Mexico, Central and South America, and the West Indies : GENTLEMEN: Some of the leading maltsters and brewers of the United States have requested the Department to procure information relative to the malt and beer trade in your respective districts. The information desired covers such points as the following : 1. The imports of malt, and whence imported ; duties charged thereon ; cost of same per bushel, whether imported or locally prepared, etc. 2. The imports of beer, and whence imported ; in bottles or wood, and duties charged thereon ; kinds of beer most suitable for local consumption ; details concerning prices, wholesale and retail, of foreign and domestic beer, etc. 3. How imported malt and beer are placed upon the market, etc. The motive of this circular being the enlargement of American trade you will not confine yourselves to the above interrogatories, which are to a large degree suggestive only, but will give as much information as possible concerning every phase of the malt and beer business, so that the maltsters and brewers of the United States may fully understand the requirements necessary to successful trade in each district. All foreign weights, measures, and money should be stated in Ameri- can equivalents. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant, WILLIAM F. WHARTON, Assistant Secretary. 327 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. MEXICO. REPORT BY CONSUL GENERAL BUTTON OF NUEVO LAREDO. MAT/1% The imports of malt into Mexico are small and unimportant ; nor is it likely that they can be greatly increased under present conditions. I have only been able to identify small importations at Matamoros and here. They are so small and unimportant that they are not specially quoted in the Mexican tariff, and it is not certain that the article called malt is the same at different custo m-houses. At Matamoros the so- called import of malt is stated at about 500 bushels per annum, used only by bakers and druggists, and paying duty at the rate of 5 cents per kilogram. At this port what is called malt, that is, barley prepared for making beer, is classed under fecula, and dutiable at 10 cents per kilogram. The imports of fecula of all materials for the six months ending December 31, 1884, the last date published where this article is stated separately, amounted to 4,307 kilograms; United States gold, invoice values, $656 j Mexican plaza value in Mexican silver dollars, $1,369; on which $517 duties were paid in Mexican coin. The special reason why there is not likely to be any increase in the import of malt is because barley is extensively grown, comparatively speaking, in most parts of Mexico. As the local cost of this grain is usually low, it will be cheaper to use the home product than to import. One or two importations of malt made through here sometime since were understood to be for making high-priced English beer in the City of Mexico. As I have been unable to find any recent shipments it was probably not a profitable business. 329 330 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. BEER. The total imports of beer and cider in bottles for the half year end- ing December 31, 1884, were as follows: Quantity. Invoice value.* Plaza values, t Duties paid.t All countries: lu bottles Kilos. 292 701 $89 732 $175 192 $58 540 In barrels ........ . . .... 37 863 6,164 11, 799 3 786 Total 330 564 95 896 186 991 62 326 From the United States : In bottles 143 201 45 443 87 723 28 640 In barrels 36 738 5 914 11 362 3 674 Total 179 939 51 362 99 085 32 314 From Germany : In bottles 84 650 26 361 51 199 16 930 In barrels 1,125 250 438 113 Total 85, 775 26, 611 51, 637 17, 043 Great Britain : In bottles 50 956 14 688 29 214 10 119 * In United States money, t In Mexican money. These are the latest dates given in Mexican statistics, by which the details of imports as above can be stated. It will be seen that even as far back as that date we sent more than 50 per cent, of all the beer, and our volume and proportion have steadily increased each year since. For the year ending June 30, 1888, the imports from the United States are stated at — Quantity. Value. Bottles... KUoa. 1 068 266 $232 860 Barrels 160, 791 21, 191 Total 1, 229, 057 254,051 For this last date I am not able to give imports from any other coun- try nor am I able to say certainly whether the money stated is in United States gold invoice values or Mexican plaza values. The import duties on beer are as follows : ^ Beer or cider : Ccntx- In bottles (net weight) kilo.. 20 In barrels (net weight) do.. 10 No allowance for breakage or leakage. Additional: Liquor tax, 8 per cent, on import duty, and 2 per cent, tax additional on gross for harbor improvements, and 2 per cent, on gross for stamps. From this it will be seen that the import duties on beer in bottles are very high, about 75 per cent, of the frontier price, and as a result the importation is not large. In the United States and in Europe the larger part of the consumption of beer is by the poor or moderately MALT AND BEER Itf SPANISH AMERICA. 831 well-to-do classes. In Mexico the contrary is true so far as regards foreign beers. Good beer may not cost quite as much here as champagne, but it is nevertheless an aristocratic drink. It will be noted that the great bulk of importation is in bottles. As the import duty on beer imported in bottles is twice that of beer in barrels, it would seem at first sight as though the greater imports would be at the lesser rate. The contrary, however, is the case, and the reasons are more or less as follows : Beer is not generally used in Mexico. There are several breweries in principal cities, but only one or two of these produce what judges call a good article. As the various beverages made from the maguey (agua miel, pulque, mescal, etc.,) are so cheap and well liked by *the great mass of the people but little native beer is used, except in a few cities. The Europeans resident in the country, as also our own coun- trymen, and such Mexicans as prefer beer, demand a better article than the native beers. They may use less because of the expense, but insist on a good quality. Many of these beer-drinkers use it at meals and on the road and prefer it in bottles. It is more difficult to sell a glass of beer for 15 cents than to sell a pint bottle for 31 cents. This latter is the lowest rate a decent beer can be retailed at in the interior, and any- thing above this quality sells for 37J cents for a pint bottle. In bottles, especially pints, it can be more handily carried on journeys and kept fresh for use as needed. So far as I am aware there are only a few places in all Mexico where beer is kept on draught. I have stated that it might be sold in the interior atfrom 31 cents to 37J cents in Mex- ican money for pint bottles. To show the expenses which bring the cost to this amount I give the items : One barrel of 10 dozen pints will cost from $8 to $8.50 in St. Louis, Chicago, or Milwaukee. Freight to the border is about $2 more, or, say, $10 United States coin at the frontier. There are small costs for brok- erage, permits, etc., from 5 cents to 10 cents per barrel, according to amount of shipment. Ten dollars United States coin may be stated at $13 Mexican coin. -On this barrel the duties are 20 cents per kilogram net, without allowance for breakage and by custom-house weights this barrel is held to weigh net, 44 to 45 kilograms, causing a duty of, say. $9. Add to this 8 per cent, on the duty as a liqnor tax and two addi- tional duties of 2 per cent., and the total duties are brought up to about 80.75. The freight from here to San Luis Potosi is about $1.70 per bar- rel, so that the total cost there would be, in round numbers, nearly $25 Mexican coin. One hundred and twenty pint bottles for $25 would be about 21 cents each. The small loss by breakage, with unenumerated incidental charges, may fairly run the price up to 23 cents per pint. Some beer costs more than the $8, and prices and expenses vary so that, speaking generally, the retail price is from 25 cents to 37 J cents for good beer. The figures I have given above are generally for car-load lots. Lesser shipments would usually cost considerably more. 332 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. The United States allows a rebate of 37 cents a barrel on beer ex- ported in bond, which, while not a great deal, is still a slight advantage. It tends to encourage purchases from the United States, and if the im- port duty were lower, would be still more of an encouragement than now. The consumption of beer is greatest along the United States frontier and in the principal cities. As I have before stated, the national drinks of pulque and mescal are so cheap and so well liked that while the duty on beer is so high the latter loses its standing as a universal and be- comes an aristocratic beverage. If the duties were reduced one-half, we could easily send in a million dollars7 worth of our beers each year. Even as it is we are gaining steadily, although slowly, and in doing so not only serve an increasing demand from new disciples of Gambrinus, but also displace a limited amount of the abominably cheap wines im- ported from Europe. The kinds most suited for sale here are those made by the Schlitz and Anheuser Busch companies of Milwaukee and St. Louis, although there are many other kinds which have very good acceptation. In some places the Pilsener is well liked. The large German population in Mexico, of course, prefer the beers of their own country, such as Werner, Miinchener, Hof brau, etc., while considerable quantities of the cheaper grades, Elbschloss, Loewendran, and Stettin, have been imported. Alsop's and Bass' ale are the favor- ite drinks in this line of the English-speaking Europeans and, in addi- tion to this, a fine and cheap, but rather thin, Swedish beer is much liked by some. The cheaper grades of European beers are losing ground here, and we are gaining in all except the highest grades. While the import duty is nearly or quite 90 per cent, of the invoice cost we can not hope to rapidly increase our trade. Our dealers might perhaps secure the privilege, by concessions, of holding beer in kegs in bonded cold storage, but the limited sales, cost of ice and freight trans- port in refrigerator cars would, at present at least, rather overbalance the saving in duties. WARNER P. SUTTON, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Nuevo Laredo, February 6, 1890. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 333 LA PAZ. REPORT BY CONSUL VIOSGA. MALT. There being no breweries in this district, there are consequently no importations of malt made, nor is there any locally prepared. The im- port duties on same are 10 cents per kilogram, or 5 cents per pound net weight. BEER. Beer is imported in this district entirely in pint or quart bottles, the weather being too warm to admit of its being kept in barrels. Gener- ally light beer imported from the United States has the most accept- ance, principally from St. Louis and California, although English ale and German beer are also imported in small quantities. Black beer, or porter, has no demand whatever, and all attempts to introduce it in this market h.ave failed. The yearly importations amount to about 2,500 barrels or more of bottled beer, containing each ten dozen pint or five dozen quart bottles, and it would be safe to state that four-fifths of this amount is Ameri- can beer. Milwaukee beer is also imported, but at a little higher ex- pense. The import duties on bottled beer are 20 cents per kilogram, or 10 cents per pound net weight — that is the liquid only; but no allowance is made for breakage. The following will show the relative cost per barrel, say of St. Louis, Mo., beer in bottles : Description. Mexican coin. United States coin. Cost per wholesale for one barrel .... .............. . .. $10 82 $19 74 67 51 Freight from San Frtw-iwo ppr «twwipr '' 64 2 00 Lighterage and drayage ..\- ........... 19 Duties 9 37 7 09 Total 29 75 22 53 The wholesale prices for which it sells here range from $34 to $33 per barrel of ten dozen pints or five dozen quart -bottles in Mexican coin, its equivalent being at present 74 cents in American coin. The retail price is $7.50 in Mexican coin per dozen quarts and 75 cents for single quarts. Inferior or false German brands from different parts sell for about 20 per cent, less than any of the genuine brands. There are at present no agencies for breweries in this country, and perhaps such means at the command of consumers would naturally favor the American trade. JAS. VIOSOA, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Consul. La Pa?, March 18, 1890. 334 MALT AND BEER TN SPANISH AMERICA. MATAMOROS. REPORT BY VICE-CONSUL VALLS. MALT. The imports of malt in this consular district are insignificant, scarcely averaging five hundred bushels annually. It is imported from New Orleans and Galveston. Its use here is confined to bakers and druggists. The Mexican duty on malt is 5 cents per kilogram. The cost of im- ported malt in this market is now $1.35, United States currency, per bushel. The imports of beer in this district amount yearly to 1,400 barrels (of ten dozen pints each) ; of this amount 1,200 barrels come from Milwau- kee and 200 from St. Louis. Beer is imported here solely in pint bot ties, and the kind most suited for local consumption is the lager beer, known as Pilsener. Shipments are always made in car-load lots, and in bond to obtain the drawback of 37 cents per barrel conceded by the United States Government. The following are the details concerning prices, duties, expenses, and cost: Cost in Milwaukee of 1 barrel beer (10 dozen pints) $8 to $8.50 .............. $8. 50 Freight by rail from Milwaukee to New Orleans (car-load rates) .............. 86 Freight per Morgan Steam-ship Line from New Orleans to Brownsville, Tex.. 1. 28 Drayage and ferriage from Brownsville to Matamoros, Mexico ............... 08 Custom-house entries and broker, Brownsville and Matamoros ............... .09 (The Mexican Custom-house considers the net weight of one barrel beer — 10 dozen pints — as 44 kilograms ; duties, 20 cents per kilogram, $8.80.)* The Zona libre duty is 3 per centum on $8.80 ......................... $0. 2640 The stamp duty is 8 per centum on $8.80 .............................. 7040 0. 9680 Nine thousand six hundred and eighty ten-thousandths Mexican coin at 75 cents 73 Cost of one barrel beer in Matamoros (United States currency) 11. 54 The American beers have entirely superseded the foreign article. During the past eight years not a bottle of foreign beer has been sold in this market. Beer is now sold at $16.50, Mexican coin, per barrel ; equivalent to $12.38, United States currency. JOHN F. VALLS, Vice- Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Matamoros, January 24, 1890. * Matamoros is in the Zona libre, consequently the beer imported thereinto does not pay this $8.80 per barrel duty. — Noie by Department. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 335 PASO DEL NORTE. REPORT BY CONSUL SAMPSON. MALT. There is very little malt imported into this district, and but little prepared locally. BEER. The imports of beer are from St. Louis and Milwaukee, about 75 per cent., and German beer about 25 per cent. It is imported mostly in bottles, barrels, or boxes, a small per cent, in kegs. Duties charged : $11.62 (United States currency) per case of six dozen quarts; $9.77 on ten dozen pints; $3*.25 per quarter barrel. Prices wholesale, $13 per cask of six dozen bottles. Retail price, 25 cents a bottle. No domestic; all foreign (United States or German). A. J. SAMPSON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Paso del Norte, February 20, 1890. PIEDRAS NEGRAS. REPORT BY CONSUL FEOHET. MALT. No malt is imported in this consular district, and none locally pre- pared, and consequently there is no data to determine the cost of malt per bushel. BEER. Beer is largely imported from the United States and Germany. Beer from the United States is shipped in kegs and in bottles, quarts and pints, packed in barrels. German beer is packed in cases or boxes containing two dozen quart bottles. Import duties are as follows : " In bottles, without allowance for breakage or leakage, net weight, 30 cents per kilogram. In barrels (kegs), without allowance for leakage, 20 cents per kilogram." A light beer is best suited for local consumption. There are no domestic breweries in this consular district. United States and German beers retail at same price ; quart and pint bottles retail at 50 cents and 25 cents, Mexican silver. Keg beer is sold at 10 cents per glass. 336 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. German beers are placed upon this market by direct orders from Mexican commercial houses (generally German). American beers shipped in bottles follow same course. In shipping keg beer, refrigerator cars for transporting the beer, and storage rooms or beer warehouses at convenient distributing points are required. At Eagle Pass, several beer warehouses have been es- tablished by United States I reweries from the East; these warehouses are supplied with ice for cold storage from the local ice factory. St. Louis, Chicago, and Milwaukee ship beer to this market. The total value of beer of United States origin arriving at this port, in bond, for fiscal year ending June 30, 1889, is $27,928.40, United States currency. The consumption of beer is largely increasing in Mexico, and mark- edly so in the northern States of the Eepublic. In the southern portions of Mexico pulque is a universal beverage, and its cheapness will prevent its replacement by beer as the drink of the poorer classes. In the northern States there is no pulque, and the only native or local drink is the fiery mescal. Foreign beers, in the absence of pulque, sup- ply the need for a mild drink or beverage. The Mexican people quickly acquire the beer-drinking habit. The only bar to consumption is the cost; beer, to be consumed in large quan- tities, should be cheap. The import duties of from 20 cents to 30 cents per kilogram are very high. EUGENE O. FECHET, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Piedras Negras, January 30, 1890. SALTILLO. REPORT BY CONSUL WOESSNER. BEER. Complying with the instructions in the Department's circular of December 15, 1889, 1 have endeavored to give such facts as I hope may be found useful to the business men of our country who are seek- ing to extend their trade with a people whom, I believe, are ready to meet them at least half way. The beer imported into my district is of American make, and comes from Milwaukee, St. Louis, New York, New Orleans, and San Antonio, and is of a good quality. It comes in pint bottles, ten dozen in a cask, and usually sells at $28 to $30 per cask, Mexican money (American exchange, is wortli at present about 32 per- cent, premium). The pint bottles formerly retailed at 37J cents each, MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 337 but, on account of competition, have been reduced to 31 cents each, the present price. There is but little beer manufactured here, and this sells ;it 1- cents per pint bottle, but it can not in any way compare or com- pete with the American beer, which is of a superior quality. There is imt much beer consumed at present in Saltillo, but there is no doubt that if it could be sold cheaper a much larger quantity would be con- sumed. To secure this result, of course, the import duties must be largely reduced, also the freight rate from Laredo, Tex., on the line of the Mexican National Railway. The import duty on beer in bottles, without allowance for breakage, or leakage, net weight is 20 cents per kilogram (about 2£ pounds.) In barrels 10 cents per kilogram payable at the port on the frontier where the goods enter this country and on entering this city there is an ad- ditional 7£ per cent, to pay on the amount of this duty as an introduc- tion tax, which is figured in this way : Supposing amount of duties on a lot of beer to be $'200 5 per cent, to the city on $200 $10 -20 per cent, school, on $10 2 25 per cent, federal, on $12 3 Total $15 • seven and one-half per cent, on amount of import duties. Beer is gen- erally sold here by wholesale through the agency of established houses and retailed in "cantinas" (saloons), hotels, and grocery stores. JOHN WOESSNEE, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Saltillo, Mexico, February 12, 1890. SONORA. REPORT BY CONSUL SMITH, OF NOGA.LES. MALT. I have the honor to inclose herewith a statement of beer imported into Mexico from the United States through this port during the year 1889, and to state that neither this consulate nor the Mexican consul- ate at Nogales, A. T., show any importations of malt, and I am informed that there is no beer manufactured in Sonora. BEEE. The kind of beer most suitable for local consumption seems to be bottled beer manufactured at St. Louis, Mo. The retail prices are, quarts, 50 cents per bottle, or three bottles for $1, and 12J cents per glass. The wholesale price per barrel of six dozen quarts ranges from 338 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. $18 to $20 per barrel. These selling prices are iu Mexican dollars ; one dollar equals 73T9^ cents American. Imported beer is placed upon the market in Sonora through actual purchase. Statement showing the quantities, value, etc., of malt and beer imported from the United States into Nogales during the year 1889. Whence. Bottled beer. United States value. Per kilo.* Remarks. Milwaukee Gases. 275 2,450 2,725 Barrels. 232 130 362 Casks. 82 596 $3, 703. 45 20, 446. 85 Cents. 20 20 In bottles, net weight. .Do. St. Louis Total 678 24, 150. 30 * 1 kilo equals 2$ pounds. No malt imported into Sonora, Mexico, in 1889. DELOS H. SMITH, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Consul. Nogales, February 3, 1890. TUXPAN. REPORT BY CONSUL LRAYTON. MALT. I am unable to give any information respecting malt, as the article is not used in this country, that is to say in my consular district. There are no breweries at this place. BEER. Beer is imported from the United States only, and as we are in com- munication with New York and New Orleans, these ports supply the market. The duties on beer in bottles of any size, are 20 cents per kilogram net weight, and for beer in kegs 10 cents per kilogram net weight. The duties are charged on invoiced quantities, no reduc- tion being made for leakage or breakage. No beer in kegs is imported, as it will not keep in this climate, and there being no ice, such trials as have been made to bring it in the above packages have proven failures and abandoned. With very few exceptions the Anheuser-Busch Brew- ing Company supply this market. The importation amounts yearly to about 500 barrels of bottled beer in pints, or 5,000 dozen, as each package contains 10 dozen pints. Wholesale price in this market is $20 per barrel, and retail per pint bottle, 25 cents, both being in American money. JOHN DRAYTON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Tuxpan, February 7, 1890. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 339 CENTRAL AMERICA. COSTA RICA. REPORT BY CONSUL MACKAY, OF SAN JOSE. MALT. During the year 1888 the value of malt imported into Costa Eica was $1,088.06 United States currency. A small proportion of this amount was imported from Europe, but the larger part was brought from the United States, principally from San Francisco. The duty charged upon malt is 2 cents per kilogram in Costa Rica currency, which is usually at a discount of .50 on United States gold. This malt is usually imported already prepared for use. Malt can be placed here, duties, freight, etc., paid for $1.65 United, States currency, per bushel. BEER. The value of beer imported into Costa Eica in 1888 was $51,031.33 United States currency, the greater part of which came from Germany, although a fair proportion of beer is introduced from the United States. All beer is imported jn bottles. The duty on beer in bottles or kegs is 7 cents per kilogram, Costa Eican currency. The darker and sweeter beers are, I believe, preferred. Beer is imported in pint bottles, that being found the most salable form. Foreign beer is sold here at from 40 cents to 50 cents per pint coin of the country), and native beer is sold at 10 cents per pint. I am informed by an importer that the expense of importing beer — duties, freights, commissions, exchange, etc., — amounts to 300 per cent of the original cost. Beer is imported here by wholesale dealers, who sell to the retailers, by whom it is placed on the market. Malt is imported almost wholly by the three breweries of the country, two of which are here, and the other in Cartago. The consumption of foreign beer is entirely confined to the wealthier classes. BECKFORD MACKEY, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, San Jost, Costa Rica, March 3, 1890. 340 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. HONDURAS. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT SEYMOUR, OF PUERTO OORTEZ. MALT. There is no inalt manufactured or imported into this country, as there are no breweries to consume same ; the duties chargeable on same, how- ever, according to the custom-house regulations, is $3.24 per 100 pounds. BEER. The beer imported into this district, i. e., through Puerto Cortez, dur- ing the fiscal year ending June 30, 1889, amounted to about 5,000 dozen pints. There is no beer imported into this country in the wood. The duty on one dozen pints of beer in bottles amounts to 60 cents, American money. Beer by the barrel, i. e., of ten dozen pints, wholesales in this port for from $15 to $17, United States coin. The importation is increasing yearly, the United States furnishing about one-half, Germany one-third, and English stout and ale perhaps covering the other one-sixth. German beer by my own personal observation as a merchant will keep better in this climate than any of our American brands, being better corked and Vith a heavier tin-foil cover over the cork, which, besides being attractive, seems to keep ants and wood lice from eating out the cork, of which they are very fond, and thereby destroying the contents. The German salso pack their goods in cases, which are more easily handled, and the breakage thereby is nil. The American exporters could improve even on the Germans by pack- ing their products in cases of 100 pounds each. Goods intended for the interior of this country have to be transported from the coast on mule-back, and as 200 pounds is considered a cargo, it is manifest that two boxes of 100 pounds each would be taken in preference of one of double its weight or a barrel of 250 pounds, which must be repacked here into smaller cases. The subject of the packing of goods for export from the United States to this country is pertinent to all branches of business, and one1 of the greatest complaints about American manufactured goods is that "they are not packed to suit." HENRY SEYMOUR, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Puerto Cortez, February 25, 1890. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. . 341 NICARAGUA. MANAGUA. REPORT BY CONSUL WILLS. I have to make the following estimated statement, derived from the most reliable sources, in the absence of statistics, of which there are none kept. Each merchant is charged with his gross weight of duties. Much expense and time would be required to overlook each merchant's ac- count at the custom-houses, to ascertain correctly the quantity of beer each imported. All the merchants are importers of beer. MALT. There is not a brewery in Nicaragua, consequently malt is not im- ported or locally prepared. BEER. Beer is imported from the United States and Germany only. The imports from the United States are estimated at 1,200 barrels of ten dozen half bottles each, costing from 90 cents to $1.10 a dozen. The gross weight per barrel is 240 pounds ; duty, 2 cents per gross pound; mak- ing $4.80 per barrel (gold $3.40) ; per dozen, 48 cents, (gold 34£ cents). The imports from Germany are estimated at 5,000 cases of six dozen half bottles each, costing from 75 cents to $1.10 a dozen. The gross weight per case is 160 pounds ; duty, 2 cents, making $3.20 per case (gold $2.30) ; per dozen 53 cents (gold 38 cents). American beer is proportionately lighter in barrels than the German in cases, consequently the duty is less. Freights are less from Ger- many than the United States, and the advantage of exchange is in favor of Germany ; exchange on Hamburg at sight is 35 J per cent; on 3Tew York and San Francisco is 42 per cent. The prices of beer range about the same in both countries — from 75 cents to $1.10 per dozen for export beer, which is the only kind imported, and only in bottles. American beer is sold by the barrel at $27 to $30 (gold $19.28 to $21.42) ; by the bottle at cantinas (bars) 40 cents (gold 28 cents). German beer is sold by the case at $16 to $18 (gold $11.42 to $12.57), and by the bottle the same as American beer. It is generally preferred in the smaller quantities by families ; therefore the German has it in that respect. 1 have known some lots of poor beer sent from San Francisco, which gave the American beer a set back. CHAS. H. WILLS, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Managua, February 21, 1890. H6A 2 342 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA, SALVADOR. REPORT BY GONSVL TUNSTALL, OF SAN SALVADOR. In volume Ko. 107, August, 1889, of " Beports of the consuls of the United States," in which is published my annual report of the com- merce and industries of Salvador, the fact is stated, under the head 44 Industrial," there are no breweries, and I have simply to reiterate the statement, as none have been established since the date of that re- port, and there has been no importation or local preparation of malt in this district. The department of this Government whose province is the prepara- tion and publication of an annual statement of the imports and exports has not yet issued its report for the year 1889. I therefore avail myself of the annual report of the preceding year to submit the following tables in reference to the beer trade of Salvador ; and additional information derived from other reliable sources enables me to present further interesting details on the subject. In the year 1888 were imported from — Pesos. Germany, 2,779 boxes, 6 dozen in each 15, 737. 18 United States, 1,495 barrels, 10 dozen in each 10,271.23 England, 1,031 packages (contents unknown) 5,071.52 Total value 31,079.93 By *a discount of 30 per cent, we arrive at the real valuation of these importations in American gold, leaving the net sum of $21,755.96. The foregoing figures demonstrate the fact that Germany does about 50 per cent, of the beer trade, and in the future is likely to control a larger percentage of it, as the importation of English and American beers are sensibly on the decrease, while German beers are growing into favor from day to day. All these beers are imported in pint bot- tles packed in barrels and boxes and not in bulk. The tariff is 5 cents per kilogram on the gross weight of the package, and there is a local or municipal duty of 4J cents per kilogram, making in the aggregate 9J cents in Central American currency and a duty of about 6J cents in our coin on every bottle of beer consumed in this country. The German beer is branded u Spaten bier, Hamburg;" wholesaled at $4 per dozen and retailed at 50 cents per bottle. There- are several brands of American beer imported, as follows : Anheuser- Busch Brewing Company, St. Louis, sold at $4 per dozen, retailed at 50 cents per bottle ; Fredericksburg Brewing Company, San Jose", Cal., sold at $3.50 per dozen, retailed at 37£ cents per bottle ; Boca Brewing Company, San Francisco, Cal., sold at $3.50 per dozen, retailed at 37J cents per bottle. A discount of 30 per cent, must be applied to these prices to reduce them to the American standard. foregoing facts and particulars of the beer trade of Salvador, MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 343 ascertained after diligent inquiry and patient investigation, I respect- fully submit to the Department, believing they convey the information sought for by its circular of December 15, 1889. T. T. TUNSTALL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, San Salvador, February 22, 1890. SOUTH AMERICA. ARGENTINE REPUBLIC. REPORT BY CONSUL BAKER, OF BUENOS ATRES. I am in receipt of the circular of the Department of State, requesting information in reference to the malt and beer business of the Argentine Republic, with a view to its bearing upon the American trade. THE ARGENTINES NOT ORIGINALLY BEER-DRINKERS. In reply, I may premise that the Argentines, like the people of the United States, were not primitively drinkers of beer, but have acquired the beer habit rather through their associations with the people of the Old World. Indeed, until within comparatively recent years, they have been noted for their proclivities in favor of wine; and, aside from what the country produced, the quantities, especially of the light table wines, yearly imported from France, Spain, and Italy have been one of the marvels of the Buenos Ayres custom-house. RECENT CHANGE IN THE DRINKING CUSTOMS. With the advent, however, of European and especially German im- migrants, a change in the drinking habits of the people has been grad- ually effected, and Argentines now-a-days call for their "schoppe" and drink it with genuine Teutonic gusto. Whereas ten or fifteen years ago the importations of malt liquors were so insignificant as to attract no attention, now they figure for quite an item in the custom-house returns. As for manufacturing malts or beers in any systematic or scientific way, until recently they possessed neither the requisite knowledge nor produced the necessary materials. Now, however, breweries of large capacity and the most approved appliances are to be found in different parts of the country. PRIMITIVE BEERS OF THE COUNTRY. I do not mean, of course, that heretofore no fermented liquors were made in this country, nor that the natives confined tbeir potations exclusively to wines. Beer-drinking and beer-making, such indeed as o44 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. it was, in the Argentine Eepublic has a history which dates back before the Spanish conquest. " CH10HA " AND " ALOJA." From time immemorial, long before the landing of the Spaniards in South America, the native Indians fermented and brewed a beer from maize or Indian corn, which in some parts of the country was called chicha and in others aloja. In the western portions of Bolivia, and in the provinces of Salta, Jujuy, and Santiago del Estero, this beer is still manufactured, and has a grand reputation with the natives and half-breeds, however repugnant may be its mode of preparation, since spittle or saliva is one of the most important ingredients. The maize, after having been coarsely masticated or chewed, is spit out into a large kettle or boiler, which is filled with water and placed on the fire. A thick skum rises to the top ; then, after several hours of boiling, it is taken off and left to ferment. In about torty-eight hours the liquor is decanted and placed in a jar, where it continues to ferment lightly. In this state it is somewhat thick and cloudy, and a sort of yellow oil floats on the top ; but at the end of another two days the chicha is ready for use. Its taste is rather winey, a little sweet, and on the whole not disagreeable. It will intoxicate if too freely taken. Another method consists, where they have the facilities, of breaking the corn in a mortar and then placing it in a kettle, completing the operation as in the former case. While this method is decidedly more cleanly, the prod- uct is much more unpleasant to the taste, and the other is greatly pre- ferred by amateurs. In the province of Tucuman they put the maize in the bottom of a jar, pour boiling water over it, and then leave it to ferment. It is called aloja, and is very refreshing. u ALGORROBA " BEER. In the provinces of Rioja, Santiago del Estero, Cordoba, and Tucu- man, beer is likewise made from the fruits of the Algorrciba, the Molle, and the Chanar trees. It is prepared by infusing the fruits, sometimes in cold but more frequently in boiling water, and waiting until the al- coholic principle begins to develop itself. The beer thus fabricated is of moderate strength ; but its taste, though very satisfactory to those who live in the far interior, is sufficiently repugnant to a traveler. All these chichas are very much used by the natives of the country during the fruit season, constituting in those remote regions, in many cases, the principal beverage on festival occasions. IMPORTATIONS OF BARLEY AND MALT. . In regard to the ordinary malt beers of commerce, it is now some years since establishments for their preparation first began to be oper- ated in this city. They are now also to be found in Montevideo, Ro- MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 345 sario, Cordoba, Gualaguichu and other centers of population in the Ar- gentine Republic. In former years these breweries had to depend al- most entirely upon foreign countries for the barley they required; but, with the progress of agriculture, no inconsiderable amount of that in- dispensable grain is now raised here at home. It is evident, however, that not enough is yet produced to meet the demand, as the custom- house returns still show large importations, both of barley and barlt\v- malt. The following table gives the importations of barley for 1887 : Imports of barley for 1887. Where from. Amount, Value. Germany Kilograms. 54 250 $1 935 France ... 80 790 4 574 Italy 9 608 3 384 Great Britain 29 044 3 459 Uruguay 211 450 6 343 Other countries 50 500 1 505 Total 435 806 21 *>05 The importations of barley for the year 1888 were as follows : Imports of barley for 1888. Where from. Quantity. Value. Germany .. Kilograms. 11 240 $1 124 France 349 579 10 801 Great Britain 36, 127 3 281 Uruguay 1 021 180 30 638 Total 1 418 126 45 844 IMPORTS OF MAL.T. The importations of malt in 1886 were 1,517,290 kilograms, valued at $185,657. In 1887 they were 1,703,421 kilograms, valued at $204,410; and in 1888 they were 2,840,315 kilograms, valued at $284,032, about two-thirds of which is imported through the house of Aischmann & Co. Except a very small proportion, which is credited to Belgium, France, and Great Britain, all the malt brought to the Argentine Re- public comes from Germany or Austria. The customs house returns for 1889 have not yet been published, so that for the last year I am not able to give the importations either of malt or barley, but they are in excess of those of previous years. NO HOPS IN THE COUNTRY — THEIR IMPORTATION. While barley has now become one of the regular crops of the coun- try, and the breadth of land put down in this cereal is every year be- coming larger, nothing as yet has been done towa*?ds the cultivation of 346 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. hops, which are so essential in the preparation of the beers of commerce. In the valleys of the province of Rioja, where the temperature is almost subtropical, there is found a native variety of hops, which has lately at- tracted some attention ; and it is thought that good hops could be cul- tivated in this part of the Argentine Kepublic, since great heat, at least iii the United States and Europe, is not essential to their proper development. If this should prove to be the case, there would be nothing lacking in the country to make the brewing of beers and ales an industry which would give most satisfactory results. As it is at present, however, all the hops used in the manufacture are imported from Europe, and the demand, of course, is every year increasing. The amount imported in 1889 was 70.000 kilograms — the greater part of which was raised in Bavaria and about three-quarters of which came through the house of L. Aischmann & Co., of this city. The duty on barley is 30 per cent., and on malt and hops 25 per cent. NUMBER AND CAPACITY OF ARGENTINE BREWERIES. With these drawbacks, however, brewing on scientific principles is making very commendable progress in the Argentine Republic. At the present time there are in the city of Buenos Ayres no less than eight well appointed brewing establishments, with a total capacity of 128,000 liters daily ; in the city of Rosario there are four breweries with a capacity of about 25,000 liters daily ; and in all the other important towns of the Republic one or two breweries are now to be found, most of them, of course, with small plants, though that on the Rio Segundo, near the city of Cordoba, called the " Anglo-Argentine Brewery " (Cer- veceria Anglo- Argentina) is famous not only for its perfect equipments, but for the excellence of its product. ESTABLISHMENTS IN BUENOS AYRES. Here in Buenos Ayres the breweries are all in the hands of persons who have learned the business in Europe ; and in respect to their beers, while all will quite favorably compare with the ordinary lager of the United States, some brands are noted for their excellence. Among these breweries there is one establishment which, for its size, for the extent and solidity of its cellars and buildings, for the amoutit and completeness of its machinery, for the quantity and quality of its prod- ucts and for its internal organization, does exceedingly great credit to the Argentine Republic, and compares favorably with the largest and best appointed in the United States. It is called " Beickert's Brewery " (Cerveceria de Beickert), that being the name of the founder, a German, who has devoted his whole life to the business. Last year it was pur- chased for account of an English syndicate for $5,000,000, but without any change in the name. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 347 TARIFF ON IMPORTED BEERS. In order to better protect the brewing industry of the country, the Argentine tariff on imported beers has of late years been considerably increased. Whereas formerly beer in bottles paid a duty of 20 per cent, on a valuation of $2.25 per dozen, and in casks a duty of 20 per cent, on A valuation of 15 cents per liter, now the duty on such beer is 15 cents per liter when it conies in casks, and 15 cents per bottle when it comes in bottles. This decided tariff has had the effect of greatly stimulating the production and the consumption of native fermented liquors. IMPORTS OF FOREIGN BEERS AND ALES. Notwithstanding the increased duty, however, and the very consider- able quantities of beer now produced here, there is still a large and continuing demand for foreign beers and ales. The following table shows the imports in casks for the years 1887 and 1888: Imports in wooden casks. 188' r. 188) J. Liters. Value. Liters. Value. 33, 811 $5,748 156,631 $26, 627 United States • .'......... 80 !4 12,906 2, l'j:; 4,916 836 26,496 5,404 Great Britain ..... 4,736 805 186, 131 31,642 5,495 934 12,960 3, 200 3,774 641 129, 674 22, 045 Total 52,812 8,978 524,792 90, 213 For the same years the amount imported in bottles was as follows: Imports in bottles. 181 87. 18 8& Country. Dozens. Value. Dozens. Value. 99, 702 $232, 177 76, 066 $177, 234 38, 823 90,453 81,062 188, 064 Brazil 10 23 73 170 103 240 1, 222 2,847 Uiiit^d States 4 071 9,485 1,263 2,943 2, 436 5,816 3,096 7,'JU Italy 363 846 Holland 4,312 10. 047 1,431 3,334 68, 273 159, 076 51, 152 119, 185 15,278 35, 598 6,993 16,293 4fi, 621 110, 957 23, 901 55,689 Total 280, 997 654,723 249, 701 581, 793 The official returns of beer imports for 1889 have not yet been pub- lished by the statistical office, but I think they will be found to be larger than for any previous year. 348 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. THE KINDS ON THE MARKET. From these tables it will be seen that foreign beers, amounting in value in 1887 to $590,771 and in 1888 to $744.930, form no small item of Argentine imports. As will be further seen, the great bulk of the re- ceipts are from Germany and. Great Britain. Indeed the United States scarcely figures in them at all. You may say of the imports of beer to this country just about what may be said of similar imports to the United States — that nearly all varieties known to commerce find, to a more or less extent, a market and have a foothold here. The kinds generally received from Great Britain and Germany, however, owing probably to the fact that they have to make a long sea voyage through and across the tropics are fortified a little heavier with alcohol than the ordinary lager beer man- ufactured either here or in the United States, and I think this addi- tional alcohol is found to be necessary to their proper preservation. England sends pale ales, porter, and stout, while Germany sends Im- perial, Mainz, Culmbacher, Pilsener, etc. The only varieties of beer I have thus far seen here from the United States were the "export lager" of the Anheuser-Busch Company of St. Louis, and a brand which I do not now remember from New York. I can say this, however, that they are both well received here, though they are perhaps when duties are added too high-priced to compete successfully, even though they may be of a better quality, with the high- class lager which is now turned out from some of the breweries of this city. If the United States brewers are prepared to send here such heavier brands of ales, porters, and stouts as England and Ireland furnish, there might be an opportunity for gaining a foothold, but the latter are too well known to commerce to be readily displaced ; while of the light beers the local breweries here, owing to the high tariff which protects them, must continue to have pretty much the monopoly of the trade. HOW PLACED HERE. The manner in which foreign beers and ales are placed on the market here is for the most part through local agencies. Each class or brand, whether of English or German make, has a special arrangement with some well known general importing house in Buenos Ayres or iu Rosario, which advertises itself as u special" or " sole agent" for the European exporters. The labels or trade-marks on the bottles likewise in all cases have the name of the house through which they are imported, so that it is known where each and every variety can be obtained, and as far as possible to prevent frauds these marks are duly " registered" in the national patent office, the law exacting a penalty from those who at- tempt to infringe upon them. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 349 IMITATIONS OF FOREIGN BEER. In spite of these precautions, however, it is known that from the many local liquor manufacturers (licoristas) there are surreptitiously put upon the market no inconsiderable quantities of bottled ales, ex- port beers and porters, which are not genuine — most of them, indeed, being mere imitations; though it may be that, in many cases they me put up in legitimate bottles. That is to say, the purchase pf beer and other bottles by parties parading the streets and calling out for "empty bottles" (botellas vacias),i8 now a large and well recogni/ed branch of business. With the trade-mark still upon them or a good imitation put in its place, these bottles are refilled with a spurious article, which thus readily deceives those who are not careful where or from whom they purchase. ADULTERATION OF FERMENTED LIQUORS. Deceptions, however, are not confined to imported beers. Although the brewing industry here is scarely yet out of its teens it is intimated to me that even in some well accredited establishments various expe- dients are not infrequently resorted to to produce taste, strength, or color in the product, and the chemical knowledge which now exists in regard to the artificial production of liquors makes the intimation very plausible. Of course, however, the extent of those adulterations is the secret of the manufacturers and can only be guessed at by out- siders or consumers. And here in the Argentine Republic, where every hop used in the mash must at great expense be imported from abroad, there must be ample occasion for using substitutes. While the impor- tations of hops are given at about 70 tons per annum, the custom -house returns for 1888 show that the imports of quassia, gentian, and worm- wood bitter amounted to 649,565 liters. Whether this was made use of as a substitute for hops of course I am not able to affirm, nor would I intimate that ginger and carraway are resorted to to impart pungency ; or alum and blue vitrol to enable the beer to keep a frothy head ; or coculus indicus, nux vomica, and tobacco to increase its intoxi- cating power. But even with these possible ingredients in its produc- tion, the criticism of the old toper in regard to whisky, that "it wasa/J good," seems to be much more the general decision here in regard to malt liquors. PRICES, ETC. Indeed, beer is becoming more and more the popular drink of the Ar- gentine Republic, and every year sees the establishment of new plants in the different provinces and the enlargement of old ones. As I have already indicated, the variety in general request is the or- dinary lager, sold for family use in bottles and to drinking establish- ments in kegs. The price of this beer is $2.40 per dozen bottles and 15 cents per liter in kegs, in the paper money of the country, which is equal 350 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. to about 40 cents to the dollar in United States gold coin. For the bock beer the price is $3 per dozen in bottles and 20 cents per liter in kegs in paper money. Bieckert's brewery also makes an export beer, which is sold to the trade at $4.50 per dozen, in paper money. I do not know that this brand has yet found a market very far outside of the country, but there is no inconsiderable demand for it in the interior. Of the foreign or imported beers those of English make most com- monly seen on the market, such as Bass, Younger, Guinuesr;, Magnolia, Blood, etc., are now selling for $13, in paper, per dozen, in half bottles, equal to about $5 in gold. Of the German beers such favorite brands as the Imperial, Mainz, Culmbacher, and Pilsener, are selling for from $25 to $30, in paper, per dozen, in quart bottles. The present price of malt in this market is 12J cents gold per kilo- gram. The price of hops is 40 cents gold per kilogram. Corks are selling for $2 to $4 gold per thousand, according to size and quality. E. L. BAKER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Buenos Ayres, April 28, 1890. BRAZIL. BAHIA. REPORT BY CONSUL BURKE. MALT. Concerning malt, as referred to in the circular dated December 15, 1889, I have the honor to say but little information can be given, as very little malt is imported. Something more definite might be ob- tained about it if the importation were made by large dealers, but it is only small dealers that are engaged in the business, if it may be called a business, and these are so scattered, too, it is difficult to Ascertain the cost of the article or the quantity brought into the place, even if one should succeed in finding the different small dealers arid making inquiries of them on this head. Therefore to ascertain, first, the im- ports of malt and whence imported, duties charged, I was obliged to go to the custom-house. I there found that for the year 1888 the quantity of malt imported was 3,438 kilograms, or nearly 3£ tons. Of this smal quantity there were imported from Germany 2,724 kilograms and from Portugal 714 kilograms. For the year 1889 the importation of malt to this port was less even than 1888, amounting to only 1,766 kilograms MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 351 or about 1£ tons, and Germany furnished it. Am unable to state the cost per bushel or per kilogram. As far as I am informed none of the article is here prepared. The duty on malt is 1,030 reis per kilogram, equivalent to about 57 cents United States money. Why the duty is so high I don't under- stand, as there is no malt grown here nor anything that is used as u sub- stitute for it. There are two or three very small manufactories of what is said to be a very inferior quality of beer. BEER. Beer is imported from Germany, Austria, Belgium, United States, Great Britain, Portugal, Italy, and Franco. During the year 1887 538,451 liters were imported, according to the custom-house figures. Of this quantity Germany sent 231,364 liters ; Great Britain, 214,862 liters ; Belgium, 87,372 liters ; Austria, 3,868 liters ; and the United States, 985 liters. In 1888 the quantity imported was less than that of 1887 by 218,403 liters. Germany during this year furnished 162,151 liters ; Great Brit- ain, 151,235 ; Belgium, 14,604 ; Austria, 1,094 5 and the United States, 964 liters. In 1889 the total importation was less than that of 1888, the differ- ent countries furnishing as follows: Liters. Germany 184,6-2*2 Great Britain 100,460 United States 4,010 France 3,076 Austria 1,263 .Italy 593 Belgium 402 This makes a total of 294,422 liters from the year 1889. During the years above mentioned the quantities furnished by the different countries were as follows : Liters. Germany furnished f>87, 127 Great Britain 466,563 Belgium * 102,073 Austria 6,225 United States • 5,959 France 3,076 Italy 593 The entire quantity for the three years imported to this city, accord- ing to the figures given, was 1,162,621 liters. As one liter is equivalent to about 2.1 American pints, there would be 2.341,504 pint bottles, equivalent to about 65,042 barrels, of beer consumed in Bahia — of im- ported beer — to say nothing of the quantity manufactured iu the place and also consumed. 352 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. All beer is now imported in bottles. The pint bottles are preferred, being more salable than those containing a liter. The duty is 300 reis per liter, equivalent to about 15 cents of our money, with 5 per cent, -f 7 per cent. The most salable are Bass's ale, German beer, and Guinness7 stout. To get at the first cost is not an easy matter. There may be an under- valuation. The invoice value may be too large as well as too small; nothing very accurate can be obtained on this head, the undervalu- ation or the too great value depending upon many things. I have been informed that English beer ranges in cost from 3J shillings per dozen for pint bottles to 6| shillings per dozen for quart bottles. German beer is said to be below these figures even. To add to the original cost are the following : freight, the duty, custom-house stamps, charges for weighing, warehouse rent, porterage, fees of the dispatcher, insur- ance, commission, etc., and the entire cost ready for sale is consider- able. The selling price is from 7J milreis to 9J milreis per dozen for pint bottles, or from say $3.75 to $4.75. Quart bottles — German beer — sell from 7 to 9 milreis per dozen bot- tles ; at retail the price is 500 reis, or about 25 cents, for every half bot- tle, no matter what the quality is. The domestic manufacture is less in price. German beer is being preferred to the English, because it is a much lighter beverage than the English, and also because it is cheaper. Im- porters say the reason so little is imported from the United States is because of the greater cost to the purchaser and the higher freight rate for carrying it than is paid on any coming from Europe. And this higher freight rate applies not only to beer, but in general to any article brought to New York. If, say the importers and dealers, the American beer could be sold at as low a price as the German beer, there is no doubt but the United States might furnish the largest share of the beer that is consumed in this place. Until this is done, say they, the United States can not export her beer in any quantity to this place. There are some well-known houses here that have been for years in the business of importing beer, wines, and liquors, and through these the different kinds of beverage are sold to wholesale or retail dealers, or even to families in many cases. Besides, the different brands now well-known have a tendency to shut out any new brand, unless the new brand is an article that is both superior and cheaper. In view of all this, then, the brewers of the United States, in order to place their beer on this market, will find it necessary to manufacture it more cheaply, get a reduction of freight rates, and then establish an agency here, having employed a man of push and activity who understands the language and can cater to catch the trade. DAVID N. BURKE, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Consul. Baliia, March 21, 1890. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 353 PARA. RETORT IIY nt\s?'i, ( LAYTON MALT. There are no breweries in the States of Para or Amazonas, conse- quently malt is not imported into this consular district. BEER. No statistics can be obtained which will show the exact quantity of beer imported into Par£ and the Amazon Valley, but it is estimated that the consumption of the same is between 800 and 1,000 cases or barrels per month. Beer is imported chiefly from Germany and England, Germany being the largest seller. The importation of American beer is very limited, and can therefore hardly be considered. It is shipped in pint and quart bottles ; a small quantity of English stout comes in stone bottles. Import duty on all foreign beer is 300 reis (about 15 cents) a liter, with an increase of 5 per cent, for the emancipation of slaves, long ago established, but the tax has never been abolished. A reduction of 5 per cent, on quantity of liters is allowed for breakage. Minor custom- house expenses are not taken into consideration, except storage, which, if beer is not dispatched on vessel, or before taken out of the lighters, it is something like 4 -or 5 per cent, of extra duty in the first month, and largely increasing this percentage according to the length of time it is stored. The greatest demand is for German beer. English ale and stout reach about the tenth part of German beer in consumption. German cheap beer is sent to the interior of the States of Para and Amazonas, while good German beer, and lately especially Bavarian beer, meets with a ready sale in the city. American beer was imported about six or seven years ago in large quantities, but since that time good German beer has come to the front, so that at present American beer has a small demand. German beer is imported at from $5 to $7 50 a case of seventy-two pint bottles, free on board ship. Price of English beer is about $7 a barrel of seventy-two bottles. After paying import duties, quotations for German beer here are from $12 to $17 a case, and for English beer $15 to $17 a barrel of seventy-two bottles. Five per cent, discount is allowed on the above prices for cash within sixty days. The retail price here is from 25 to 30 cents per pint bottle. All European beer imported into this consular district is bought through foreign commission houses, on credit at from three to six months' time. The little American beer that comes to this market is also bought through New York commission houses, and the receiver here generally has to pay cash for the same. 354 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. At present it is very difficult for a new beer to be placed on this mar- ket, because the authorities demand an exact analysis of the same. Im- port of any beer containing salicylic is prohibited. KOBT. T. CLAYTON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Para, March 20, 1890. PERNAMBUCO. Statistics of malt and beer, imported into this State during the first six months of the year 1889, as given by the collector of customs «£ this port. [The last six months of the year 1889 can not be given, because the accounts are not yet adjusted and made up in the custom-house here. The custom-house does not discriminate regarding the quality of beer imported ; duties on superior and inferior quality are the same for all.] Importation from— Quantity. Price. Duty. MALT. Great Britain • Pounds. 4 238 Malt white first quality $7 26 Germany - ......... 17 372 for 200 pounds. * (On malt 15 reis, or three- quarters of a cent per Portugal 2 636 pound, United States BEER. Great Britain Quarts. 97,296 $10*. 35 for 200 pounds. * f Foreign beer, 1 box containing | 48 bottles, $15, and 1 box con- taining 9G.V bottles, $1G. Bar- reled beer, English (Bass's), 36 money. Beer, 200 reis, or 10 centw 1 962 gallons; barrel sold at 00,000 Germany 168 428 reis, or $30 United States Austria 3,618 money ; retailed here at 15 bottles. cents a glass ; and 1 bottle of beer costs at retail 1,000 reis, or 50 cents. * Both delivered at Pernambuco. Quantity per annum. Price. Native beer brewed in this£ State by two breweries. \ Gallons. 40, 000 35, 000 !One barrel, containing 6 dozen bottles, 28,800 reis, or $14.40. One barrel, containing 12 dozen and a half bottles, 30,000 Total 75 000 one-half bottle 300 reis or 15 cents. 1 NOTE. — Exchange reckoned for the above, one milreis, equal to 50 cents United States money. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Pernambuco, February 21, 1890. H. C. BORSTEL, Consul. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 355 RIO DE JANEIRO. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL DOOKERY. MALT. All malt used in the Brazils is imported, and its average sales in Kio de Janeiro alone amount in money value to over $25,000 per month, a large portion of which is for cash. The nature of the business requires a large stock to be kept on hand at all times, and for this purpose there are large warehouses both here and at Santos. There are some fifty small breweries in this city, which buy from day to day just sufficient to meet their requirements and pay for same in cash. Malt is imported almost exclusively from Germany, and is subject to a duty about equal to first cost there, but the prices realized have insured alarge profit and the trade is considered valuable. I have had an interview with Mr. Gabel, proprietor of the largest brewery in Brazil. He reports that he is now using about 30,000 pounds of malt per month and 1,000 pounds of hops, producing about 10,000 liters of beer per day, and that it is his intention to double his capacity at once, having already commenced work. He has never used American malt or hops, but is ready and would do so if suitable to his business, and any one who is desirous of opening trade, by sending to him ten barrels of malt and 25 pounds of hops, or either, will, I think, secure an honest trial ; and as this is the largest brewery in Brazil, an approval from him would settle the point so far as quality is concerned. I would heartily recommend a trial of this kind, as I can see a fine opportunity to open a profitable trade, with every inclination on the part of the Brazilians to throw it into our hands. BEEK. A large quantity of beer is imported in pint and quart bottles and sold, at retail, at 50 cents per quart. It is subject to a duty of 200 reis per liter, or about 8^ cents per quart, with 5 per cent, additional on custom bill, and every invoice is subject to and must have a certificate from a government inspector. An order for 150 barrels of beer has recently been placed with the Empire Brewery, of New York City, by Mr. N. H. Schmitz, an American citizen, with the intention of pushing its intro- duction here, and I see no reason why he should not be successful. Beer manufactured here is of inferior quality, and does not compete with that brought from either the United States or Germany, and from the conditions of the climate it has been clearly proven, after numer- ous trials, that it can not be made of a quality equal to that made in the colder climates ; hence it follows that this will always be a valuable market. At present it is almost entirely controlled by the Germans, who have, by persistent effort, within a few years, about driven the English from the field. With the aid of their government they sought and obtained, through the several consulates, most minute information, and have, by energy and push, obtained the valuable foothold they now 356 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. possess, and the success which has rewarded these efforts clearly proves what can be done in this way, and, in my judgment, indicates the course to be pursued by us. I am most anxious to afford all possible informa- tion in this and all other matters relating to the development of trade with this country, especially in view of the kind feeling and evident desire of the people to trade with us, and I am ready to do everything I can to promote this end. O. H. DOCKERY, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE GENERAL, Rio de Janeiro, February 17, 1890. RIO GRANDE DO SUL. REPORT BY CONSUL SENNINGTON. MALT. All malt is imported ; the greater part from Bavaria, and costs the brewer $25 per case of 150 kilogram ; the duty is a cent and a half per kilogram. The malt is received here prepared ; but as the Brazilian tariff makes no difference so far as duty is concerned between the malted barley and the barley, I am unable to give reliable information as to the amount of malt imported. Hops are also imported ; largely from Bavaria, but some are from Kent, England, and cost here 75 cents a kilogram. BEER. Beer is becoming somewhat more popular as a beverage among the native people of this country 5 but whatsoever increased demand there may be among a certain class of consumers, it is supplied to a certain extent by local breweries. Imported beer pays a duty of about 10 cents per liter, and retails at from 50 to 60 cents per bottle. I cannot give the prices that the English and German beer costs the importer in Eio Grande, but am of opinion that the retailer makes a clear profit of 100 per cent. The following table shows the importation of beer at the port of Eio Grande do Sul for the year 1889, which I estimate to be one-half of the entire importation into this consular district. Imported from— Quantity. Official value. Liters. 68 729 $17 029 50 Belgium ........................ 632 158. 00 4 941 1 235.50 France . 1 426 356.50 Great Britain 15, 370 3, 793. 00 Italy . 2 006 501. 50 Total 93 104 23 074.00 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 357 There are breweries in each of the three principal cities of this State — Rio Grande, Pelotas, and Porto Alegre — which amply supply the de- mand for the beer of the country. Eio Grande has three breweries, with a total capacity of about 1,200,000 bottles per annum. Pelotas six, two or three of which have an annual capacity of 500,000 bottles each, and Porto Alegre nine, two of which have each a capacity of 1,000,000 bottles per annum. The domestic breweries bottle all their beer ; there is nothing in the malt-liquor line handled in wood casks in this country. The ordinary beer of this country sells at from 90 cents to $1 per dozen, from the brewer to the retailer who sells it to the consumers at from 16 to 20 cents per bottle. A stronger dark beer sells at from 30 to 50 per cent, higher. Imported beer is put on the market through certain commercial houses, which will sometimes have the exclusive agency for a large scope of country for the sale of certain brands adopted by bottlers in Europe. In order to establish any trade in the sale of American beer in this country, I can but reiterate practically what I have written before; it is necessary to establish a house or an agency in the part of the country where trade is desired, which will push its goods, whatever they be, in competition with the importations from Europe. I have noticed that the competition which is made through patriotic as well as financial motives is the most successful, and it is the only kind that will ever build up a good trade for American products in this country. German and English houses sell all the foreign beer in this country, and a simple glance at the figures in the table which I have given shows the effect of their influence in pushing the products of their respective countries in foreign markets. LEBBEUS G. BENNINGTON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, March 7, 1890. BRITISH GUIANA. REPORT BY CONSUL WALTHALL, OF DEMERARA. MALT. No malt is either made in this colony or imported into it. BEER. Malt liquors of various kinds are imported, both in wood and in bottles, Hi idly from Great Britain, though to a small extent from Den- mark. Holland, and the United States. The duty is $5 per hogshead H6A 3 358 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. on that which comes in wood ; 24 cents per dozen in bottled quarts ; and 12 cents per dozen in pints. That imported in hogsheads is bottled in the colony before sale. It is not customary to retail it, even in the spirit shops, by the glass, or to keep it " on draught." The wholesale prices are from $14 to $17 per hogshead ; $6 to $6.25 per case of four dozen quarts, or about $1.50 to $1.56 per dozen ; and $6.50 to $7.25 per case of seven dozen pints, or about 93 cents to $1.04 per dozen. Com- missions and other charges amount to 10 or 12£ per cent, of the sales. The retail price for smaller quantities is more uncertain, but may be stated at 10 to 12 cents per bottle for pints, and 16 to 20 cents for quarts. Malt liquors are placed on the market by consignment to local deal- ers. Some small experiments had been made toward the introduction of lager beer of American manufacture, but quite recently the Scotch brewers have begun to make it of a quality considered by many to be superior to that made in the United States, and tending to exclude the latter from the market. The price at which this is sold is somewhat, but not materially, less than that realized for other malt liquors. It is thought by some that the introduction of lager in small kegs might lead to the sale of it by the glass, as in the United States 5 but such are the conservative instincts of all classes of the colonial commu- nity, even in matters of meat and drink, that the results of such an experiment would be doubtful, unless it were prosecuted persistently and patiently. W. T. WALTHALL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSUATE, Demerara, February 20, 1890. CHILI. IQUIQUE. REPORT BY CONSUL MERRIAM. MALT. There is no malt imported into this consular district. ^ BEER. During the calendar year 1889 there were imported into Iquique, in pipes, native beer from ports between the Serena and Valdivia, 2,836,700 liters, or, say, 638.258 gallons. During the same period there were imported, in cases of four dozen each, 10,532 dozen bottles of foreign beer, mainly Bavarian and Nor- wegian, or nearly 32,000 gallons, The amount of English beer con- sumed in this port is comparatively small, and of American beer much less than of English. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 359 As the figures show, the consumption of native beer is about 95 per cent, of the total amount. The quality of the native beer is very fair, and that of some breweries is really excellent, but it is always inferior to Die average American beer. During the past few years there have been moderate importations of beer from St. Louis, Mo., which has given good satisfaction as to its quality. The difficulty so far in introducing good brands of American beer in bottles, so as to compete successfully with other beer, whether native or foreign, is its price. The probable cause of the higher price of American beer is the higher ra to of freights. The best foreign beer, Bavarian and Norwegian, is sold in the market to-day for $6 per dozen, which is equivalent to $3 American gold. If as good a quality of American beer could be placed on the same or more favorable terms, I know of no reason why a large trade in beer could not be built up with manufacturers in the United States. Great care should be given to the packing of the bottles. Com- plaints of careless packing of all kinds of merchandise, on the part of American exporters, are very common, and so far as my observation goes the complaints are well-founded. The English and the French far excel us in this respect. Very good brands of Bavarian beer are retailed for the equivalent of 40 cents, gold, per bottle. Other brands of Bavarian and all American beer at 50 cents, gold, per bottle. Half bottles also should be sent. All foreign beer is imported into this market by about six importing houses, who sell it with general merchandise. The duties on beer are specific, 12 cents, silver, a liter on beer in the wood, and $1.25 per dozen on beer in bottles, also silver. Local dues amount to about 60 cents on a case of four dozen bottles, in cur- rency, or, say, 30 cents a case in gold. J. W. MERRIAM, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Iquique, May 17, 1890. TALCAHUANO. REPORT BY CONSUL VAN INQEN. MALT. All malt used here is made by the brewers who use it. The duties are not given in the tariff. BEER. Then- is very little beer imported, as there are a great many German breweries here. It is generally imported in bottles, and duty charged thereon is about 94 cei ts, United States gold, per dozen bottles. 360 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA, The beer mostly drank here is sold in bottles of three-fourths liter, which equals 1.3206 imperial pint, at 5 cents, 10 cents, and 20 cents, United States gold, per bottle retail, and wholesale at 50 cents, 62 cents, and 75 cents the dozen bottles. No malt imported. Beer is imported in very small quantities by for- eign houses, which sell to retailers. Duties on hops imported in cases 8J cents, United States gold, the kilo- gram, gross weight, and in sacks or bales 11 cents, United States, gold, per kilogram, gross weight. In my opinion there is no business to be done in southern Chili in foreign beers, as there are so many brewers who supply this article so cheaply as to shut out all foreign competition, unless admitted free of duty, and then the competition would be doubtful. JOHN F. YANlNGKEN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Talcahuano, March 27, 1890. ECUADOR. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL SORSBY, OF GUAYAQUIL. MALT. In Ecuador there are several breweries. On the coast there is but one and it is at Guayaquil, the " Guayaquil Lager Beer Brewery Association." In the interior there are two, one at Quito and the other at Ambato. The Guayaquil brewery is the only one importing malt. Guayaquil. — Heretofore the malt for the Guayaquil brewery has been imported in a prepared state, and via New York from Canada. About 400 bushels per month is imported, costing delivered at Guayaquil, in- cluding import duty, $2.50 United States gold per bushel. The import duty on malt is 2 cents, of a sucre per kilogram, plus 20 per cent., or, say, 36 cents United States gold per bushel. It is estimated that malt can be had from Chili at about $2 United States gold per bushel, inclu- sive of the duty ; and its safe to say that in the future Chili will furnish the Guayaquil brewery with all the malt required. The interior produces all the malt required for its breweries. BEER. More than an estimate on the beer imported into the Republic can not be given. The amount imported and consumed per annum is about 300,000 gallons, the greater part of which comes from Germany, but recently English and American beers are curtailing the German exports. The duty on beer is 5 cents per kilogram gross, plus 20 per cent., or, say, 1 J cents United States gold. " Gross " means that the duty is charged on the gross weight of beer, bottles, straw, and boxes. Beers shipped to Ecuador come packed in cases of 4 dozen whole and 6 dozen half MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 361 bottles — soiiH'i imes in barrels of <» dozen whole or 10 dozen half bottles. The German beer is transported in. sailing vessels at 30 shillings per ton measurement, or $7.50 United States goli. American beer (of New York manufacture) is being introduced and is slowly displacing the German and English make. It is transported to this poiot via Panama, and the cost of transportation makes its cost here very high. It is sold here at 25 sucres per case of 4 dozen whole bottles, or, say, $16 United States gold ; while the German and English beer, coming by sailing vessels, sells here at $12 United States gold for the same quantity. This great difference in price militates against the American brewer, although the American beer is preferred. Light beers are best suited to this market. All imported beers are in fairly large lots and in consignments. Very little, if any, being bought outright. But it is useless to attempt to surplant the German and English with American beer unless the cost of the latter can be made to compare favorably with the former. The American beer is transported by steam, the German and English by sail, the difference in the cost of transportation forces the selling price here of the former to $16 United States gold, while the latter can be sold at $12 United States gold per case. The difference in quality is not enough to offset the great difference in cost. If American beer can be laid down at this point at the same cost of the German and English there can be but little doubt that the United States will soon control the market in Ecuador. But the quantity of beer imported will always depend largely upon the quality of the brew by the Guayaquil brewery. When that brewery was first established they had an experienced brewer the result was that the amount of foreign beer consumed was diminished very materially. Later they employed a native brewer and the result was and is, owing to the poor quality of beer brewed, the consumption of foreign beer is again very great. Quito. — At Quito the malt is raised in Ecuador and prepared by the brewery, costing before prepared 85 cents per bushel; the quantity brewed per day being about 100 dozen bottles. Ambato.— At Ambato the malt is grown in Ecuador and prepared by the brewery, costing about 85 cents per bushel before prepared ; the quantity brewed per day being about 15 dozen bottles. The price at Quito and Ambato being $1 (suere), or 70 cents United States gold per dozen for steam, and $2 (sucre), or $1.40 United States gold for lager beer. The hops used at Guayaquil, Quito, and Ambato is imported from Germany at a cost of about $40 sucres, or $28 United States gold per 100 pounds. Guayaquil beer is sold at $2, United States gold per dozen by the case, and retails at 20 cents per bottle. The output of the brewery is about 100 dozen bottles per day, in kegs and bottles, but the capacity of the brewery is said to be from 250 to 300 dozen per day. 362 MALT AND BEER IN .SPANISH AMERICA. The Guayaquil brewery manufactures and sells about 10,000 pounds of ice per day, which is sold at 2 cents United States gold per pound, wholesale. In attempting to establish trade in this country it is well to know and to remember that the trade is controlled in no small degree by trade-marks. An article bearing a certain u trade-mark," when once established, is vqry hard to displace. , All classes and kinds of goods should be lightly yet securely packed, with the view to obtain the minimum weight, and, at the same time, safe transportation. This point alone is worth especial study ; and yet, strange to say, is ignored by American shippers. I desire to repeat that the tariff of Ecuador exacts duty upon the gross weight of the cargo, and when this fact is borne in mind the necessity of making a special study in packing for shipments need not be en- larged upon. WILLIAM B. SORSBY, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Guayaquil, April 2, 1890. REPUBLIC OF COLOMBIA. BARRANQUILLA. REPORT BY VICE-CONSUL WHELPLEY. BEER. The term beer (cerveza) includes all classes of malt liquors, as stout, porter, ale, and lager. Duty, 2J cents per kilogram. The well known brands of Bass, Younger, Guinness, Tennant, the only brands known to commerce twelve or fifteen years ago, have been gradually superseded here by the German brands. The imperial, Pilsen, Bayrisch, and lager, from Hamburg and Bremen breweries, and one or two brands of Bavarian beer, are in increasing demand, as being not only a lighter beverage and better adapted to the climate than the British, but also cheaper in price, as for example : British pin 9ne-h a 1 f ts. German pii — » — one-halt its. Kind. Purchase price. Selling price. * Kind. Purchase price. Soiling price. * Bass per dozen . . Cents. 95 $2.25 Imperial.... . per dozen Cents. 90 $1 80 Younger... do Tennant do 94 94 2.20 2.20 Bayriach do Pilaen do 80 80 1.50 1 50 Guinness do 94 2.20 Lager do . 80 1.50 United States cnrrency. MALT AND BEER IX SPANISH AMERICA. 363 (i to If- ]>(•!• (in!, lusher than Un> HambingMid Bremen beers. Malt is not imported. An " extract of malt" is sometimes sent to the interior, but it is said that at some small brewing establishment at Bogota they also have a local preparation, but the beverage made is but an inferior imitation of foreign brands. Packages for local sale of the above-named German beers are put up in -I dozen to a case, and for interior trade in 5 dozen to a case; average weight 65 kilograms (13 kilograms per dozen). Cases contain 3 or o dozen German beers, imperial one-half pint bottles, sheathed in straw cones. The cases are made of thoroughly- seasoned Norway pine or spruce of five-eighth inch thickness for tops and bottoms, and one-half inch for sides and ends, bound with thin strap iron one-half inch wide. The cases are of the following dimensions: Inside measurements : 3-dozen case, 11 Jinches wide, lOinchesdeep, and 20J inches long. For 5-dozen case, 13 inches wide, 11J inches deep, 26j inches long. As the duty is levied on gross weight of package and contents, light material for boxing is a desirable feature. An extra one-eighth of thick- ness in box material would add a large percentage of unnecessary ex- pense, to an invoice of several hundred cases. A cask of 10 dozen of lager, from a Milwaukee brewery, has given much satisfaction in style and quality to an importing house here who intend to send a liberal order. The same house imported over 2,000 cases from Hamburg during the past year, but consider, with many of their local consumers, that Milwaukee is the best yet offered as a malt beverage. Price not stated. For local consumption the packing in casks may be suitable, but it is not good for the interior trade. The German bottler, knowing that the gross weight of package is an important factor in the trade with this country, use bottles as thin as consistent with safety ; our brewers seem to think thick concave bottoms necessary, an increase of weight to the bottle and a decrease in its cubic capacity and contents as compared with the German flat bottomed bottle. A case of 5 dozen sent from Chicago last year weighed 5J kilograms more than a Bremen case of 5 dozen, and each Chicago bottle contained one eighth of a pint less than the Bremen bottles. The Chicago case was made of soggy, unseasoned stuff, three-fourths inch in thickness, bound with heavy strap-iron. Each bottle was larger in appearance than the German, with a thick concave bottom, capped with heavy, lead foil, over a needlessly heavy wire. The importer objects to this extra and useless expense; the consumer would like more beer and less glass for his money. S. M. WHELPLEY, Vice- Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Barranquilla, February 10, 1890. 364 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. Beer imported during years 1888 and 1889. [From custom-house record of Barranquilla. In kilograms, per month.] 1888. Where from. Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May. June. July. Aug. Sept. Oct. ' Nov. Dec. Totals. Antwerp Bremen 980 9,056 17, 950 10, 430 130 5,370 19, 060 66, 763 910 3,609 810 144, 803 1,482 35, 433 19, 003 43, 943 1,300 2, 927 4,795 2,108 1,578 18, 792 19, 399 910 Curacao 452 547 2,610 810 18, 427 Hamburg 6,284 18, 530 9,905 1,000 4,178 2,460 6,918 1,300 21,273 482 9,360 4,134 10, 605 4,120 5,860 11, 915 6,431 31, 453 London ....... Liverpool Manchester . 790 ""690 835 4,374 4,117 1,080 1,604 11, 127 6, 793 4,000 3,380 1,809 ""55 179 2,310 5,771 1,857 475 New York N"ew Orleans . . Paris 1,522 5,611 12, 950 827 . 2, 100 810 'i,~785 Southampton. . Total 1,875 986 149 19, 114 50, 310 31, 261 37, 145 20, 176 11. 335 13,099 16, 876 15, 825 58, 596 17, 405 53, 696 344, 838 _' Colon 2,980 65, 030 17," 778 360 25, 915 2,400 41, 470 5,740 264, 597 27, 470 1,638 29H, 127 25, 971 36. 074 34, 644 42, 243 4,809 | 8, 068 Bremen ...... 19,420 6,758 6,674 1,500 59, 230 22, 322 25, 970 Curasao 86 1, 552 11, 722 3,041 126 903 3,213 1,313 3,260 384 6,664 384 40, 445 3,139 5,840 1,905 3,444 29, 281 4,596 16, 589 2,145 1,940 3,010 10, 840 61, 982 10, 000 6,790 1,100 47, 347 1,212 295 4,284 28, 236 52, 55l 1 070 London " Liverpool Manchester New York Paris 11, 163 12, 945 7, 237 9,920 2,087 6,016 1,130 5, 824 7,280 3, 080 1 110 2,589 685 824 3 720 877 Southampton 1,794 Port Liinon . . 2,554 Total 20, 318 30, 869 20, 760 62, 947 106, 371 82, 816 150, 119 70, 916 90, 400 113, 431 783, 591 * Books of custom-house not posted for November and December, 1889. NOTE.— At 13 kilograms to the dozen (one-half pints), 60,276 dozen for 1889, exclusive of November and December. COLON. REPORT BY CONSUL VIFQUAIN. MALT. 1. There is no malt imported into this consular district. Ther^ are no breweries, no duties on malts, none on beer. BEER. 2. The kinds of beer imported here are German, English, and Amer- ican. In the year 1888, the last good year, the imports of English beer (porter and ale) averaged 1,000 barrels per month ; it was used largely by the Jamaicans working on the canal. In the same year the German imports amounted to 1,500 barrels per month, mostly used on the line of the canal, largely by the Chinese. In the same year the American MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 365 imports were on an average of 600 barrels per month, chietiy Milwau- kee; about one-seventh of it NewOrleans beer. A barrel consists of 10 dozen pint bottles, or 6 dozen quart bottles. English beer was sold here at $7 per barrel ; the German at $6.50 and *!> per barrel ; the Ameriean beer, Milwaukee, at $12 ; New Orleans at lib. Milwaukee is "the beer" mostly used here; retailed at 50 and CO cents per quart bottle (or 35 and 40 cents American money per bottle). During the year 1889 Milwaukee beer is the only one that increased its imports. 3. The beers are placed upon the market by local firms (wholesale grocers and commission houses) and disposed by those to the multitude of saloons. In addition to the answers I beg to state that of late the vessels bringing ice here imported, on an average of one per month, some one hundred ten-gallon kegs of regular lager. It is chiefly used in Panama, but it is far from being the lager "on tap" in the States; in other words, it does not improve on the voyage. In case the canal resumes work it is my opinion that a brewery with beer garden in the mountains, some four or five miles from here, would do an extremely lively business, provided it could import its own ice. VICTOR VIFQUAIN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Colon, January 31, 1890. VENEZUELA. LA GUAYRA. REPORT BY CONSUL BIRD. MALT. The importation of malt at this port is quite small, amounting, as carefully estimated, to about 120 bushels per month of the value at re- tail of $13.82 per 100 pounds. Importations are of shelled unground grain, and the largest part comes from Hamburg ; the rest is contrib- uted by the United States. The duty on unhusked malt is 89 cents per 100 pounds, and 12J per cent, of total duty added for transit duties. The duty on shelled unground malt, the kind that, is usually imported, is $6.66 per 100 pounds and 12£ per cent, of total duty added for transit duties. BEER. The importation of beer at this port, wlnVh can be approximately stated only, amounts to about 60.000 bottles per month, 75 per cenr. of which comes from Germany and the remainder from England and the 366 MALT AND BBER IN SPANISH AMERICA. United States, our share in this portion being quite small. About all of it comes in bottles or halt' bottles, tbat from Germany and England being packed in boxes containing one dozen bottles or two dozen half bottles, while that from the United States is more cheaply packed in barrels containirg five dozen bottles or ten dozen half bottles. Duties are paid on the gross weight of packages ; hence the lighter the pack ing is the less will be the cost of the article. The duty on all kinds of beer is $2.22 per 100 pounds, with 12£ per cent, of total duty added for transit duties. Beer is sold in this market at wholesale at prices rang- ing, according to quality, from $3 to $6 per box, and is retailed at from 20 cents to 35 cents per half bottle. Both white and black beer are consumed in about equal proportions. Germany sends both the best and worst qualities of beer, thus grati- fying the most extravagant and economical tastes ; and it is generally asserted that all kinds of German beer are cheaper and better than beers from other countries. It is also stated that some of the best brands of American beer, that were formerly much esteemed here, have latterly greatly deteriorated in quality. A brewery, upon a small scale, has been lately established in Caracas, and some tentative effort has been made to supply the market with domestic beer. It has not, however, proved a success and it is believed that climatic conditions alone will insure its failure. The beer is of very inferior quality and will not keep for any length of time. WINFIELD S. BIRD, Con&tti. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, La Guayra, January 29, 1890. MARACAIBO. REPORT BY CONSUL PLUMAOHER. MALT. In this consular district there are no breweries and malt is not an article of trade, none being imported or prepared locally. BEER. The imports of beer into this consular district amount annually to about 35,000 boxes of two dozen pints each. None is introduced in the wood, as the climatic conditions are such as to render its preservation a matter of great difficulty, and consequently beer on draught is unknown. The total import duties amount to 5f cents per kilogram, gross weight. By far the greater quantity of beer is of German production, the ex- ports from the United States being comparatively insignificant, although MALT AND REEK IN SI'AMSII AMERICA. 367 (he American fager introduced here : is of excellent qualil.s and apprc- ciated by the public. It would seem that under these circumstances the brewers of the United States should find in this section an extensive market for their products, but it is their method of packing which mili- tates against their interest. As duties in this country are levied upon the gross weight of all im- ports the character of the receptacle is an important factor in calculat- ing cost of introduction. The beer shipped from Germany is packed in boxes made of thin boards and fastened with the lightest and least n umber of nails consistent with safety of transport. The bottles are made of thin, light glass, and the aim of the exporters is, very prop- erly, to reduce as much as possible the weight of their shipments. The Americans, on the other hand, although this important point has been repeatedly brought to their attention, persist in packing their goods in such a manner as to add enormously to the import duties. Bottles of unnecessarily heavy glass, thick boards for boxes (some of which are of the extraordinary dimensions of 1J inches), a multitude of heavy cut nails, and iron bands of considerable weight — all these are used by American exporters of beer, and upon these accessories, which might easily be reduced by more than 50 per cent., the full beer tariff must be paid. It should not be a matter of wonder that under these circumstances the importers of this district introduce the German article, as the costs of importation are reduced to a minimum. As far as quality and original price at brewery are concerned, Ameri- can beer should have a ready sale in this market, as it can be disposed of at retail, notwithstanding the disadvantages of packing, at from 5J to 0 pesos per box of 24 small bottles of 12 ounces each. The ordinary German beer comes as a rule in bottles containing 8 ounces, and retails at from 4 to 6 pesos per box of 24 bottles. There are also special classes of German beer of superior quality, particularly the Dreher beer of Vienna, which is readily sold here at 14 pesos ($10.77 United States gold) per box of 48 bottles (halves). The original cost of the ordinary grades of German beer is 10.40 marks for 48 bottles, and for the same quantity of the superior quality 1M.50 marks (all bottles being halves). These invoice prices of the German article are subject to a trade dis- count which is, perhaps, never less than 4 per cent. The freights also from Europe to this coast are exceedingly low. The beer comes in sailing vessels which are sent to this port to load wood and divi-divi, and the charterers are glad to get any class of freight at reduced terms, especially as these vessels as a rule are not classed suffi- ciently high to carry valuable or perishable cargo. There is really no reason why the brewers of the United States should not establish an extensive trade with this country if they would only study and, bear in mind the peculiarities of the market. 368 MALT AND BEER IN .SPANISH AMERICA. There are many large houses which could easily nifoixl to send ac- credited representatives, equipped with a sufficient knowledge of Span- ish and prepared to treat with the importing firms of this and other Venezuelan centers. In my dispatch of January 21, last, referring to commercial matters generally, I laid especial stress upon the necessity of active and aggress- ive representation on the part of our merchants and manufacturers, and I can think of no branch of business to which this advice is more applicable than that of American beers, wines, and liquors. Moreover, the direct intervention of the brewers by means of travel- ing agents would do away with the present necessity of employing com- mission houses at New York and other exporting points, whose charges are rarely less than 5 per cent, upon invoice value. This 5 per cent, added to the excessive import duties caused by the peculiarities of the Venezuelan tariff form such a burden that competi- tion with European exporters is almost an impossibility. The demand in this district for American beer, even when offered at low prices, is but small, as it is light lager which has not the strength suitable to the palates of the people, nor does it keep when stored. Bad corkage is perhaps responsible to a certain extent for this last drawback. The experiment of making beer in Venezuela has been tried in Cara- cas, but the results have not been encouraging. In Bogota, Colombia, which has an elevation above sea-level of some- thing more than 8,000 feet, an excellent beer is brewed from Indian corn, which has a ready and extensive sale at the rate of 80 cents per dozen. In Venezuela the beer consumption is very great, and in the most isolated and distant points of the interior it is always to be found. I have no doubt that should our brewers send good beer in casks and have always a constant and sufficient supply of ice for its preservation large quantities could be sold on draught. There is no reason also why a brewery may not be established even in the city of Maracaibo. It is true that the heat is here intense, and, without the means of producing artificial cold, such an enterprise could not for a moment be projected, but as now there are many processes for reducing the temperature of large rooms even to zero at a moderate cost this difficulty might be thus overcome. Beer made from maize has always been well received in these countries and this product is here as a rule exceedingly cheap. Should the disadvantages of climate be thus obviated Maracaibo would be an exceptionally favorable locality for such an enterprise, as it is the distributing point not only for an immense section of Vene- zuela, but also for the entire northeast of Colombia. The preceding remarks contain the answer to this quest-on, and to resume briefly, as far as American beer is concerned, 1 beg to state — (a) The brewers should send representatives to study the market and treat; diiectly with the importers. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 369 (6) Great attention should be given to the packing in order to reduce the weight to a minimum. (c) The American beer received in this district is of good quality and is so recognized, but it is too light for the tastes of the people, who pre- fer a stronger article. It is, moreover, a matter of complaint that it deteriorates during store- age. Should our brewers determine to make an effort to secure a fair pro- portion of this trade, the foregoing suggestions will, I trust, be of service. E. H. PLUMACHER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Maracaibo, February 19, 1890. Statement of the weight of a bottle of beer from various European breweries. (1) The following breweries whose products are fair, but not of superior quality, send their beer in half bottles, weighing when tilled from 17 to 20 ounces each : (a) Ross Company, lager-beer, Teufelsbrncke, Kleinflottbeck, Holstein. (6) Norway Ale Brewery, limited, Christiania. (c) Imperial (?erman Pale Ale, Export Brewery. (d) Export Beer Brewery, Best India Pale Ale. (2) The following breweries produce a superior quality of beer, as follows: (a) Dreher, of Vienna, half bottle, weighing 28 ounces. (&) Frankenbrau, Bainberg, Bavaria, one-half bottle weighs 27 ounces. (c) Salvator Brauerei, Miiuchen Schwabing, one-half bottle weighs 26 ounces. (d) Aktien Brauerei, Lowenbrau Miinchen, one-half bottle weighs 27 ounces. (e) Aktien Brauerei, Lowenbrau, Miinchen, whole bottle weighs 48 ounces. PUERTO CABELLO. REPORT BY CONSUL DE BLANO. MALT. No malt is imported into this district and none is made therein. A brewery has been lately established at Caracas, in the adjoining con- sular district, which imports malt for its own use j but to what extent, and whence imported I am not informed. BEEE. Beer is imported to a large extent from Germany, Austria, and Eng- land, and some also from the United States, but in small quantity. Totals of importations can not be given, as statistical notes are not ki'pt. It is imported exclusively in bottles. The duty is 25 centimes of a bolivar per kilo, equal to $2.2115 United States currency per 100 370 MALT AND BEER IN Sl'ANISH AMERICA. pounds. The cheap German and fine Austrian beers are those most generally consumed. The price of beer by wholesale in this market ranges from 3£ to 7 pesos ($2.69 to $5.38 American gold) per case of 24 pints. It retails at 1*5 to 37 centavos per pint (19 to 28 cents American). Beer is placed upon this market at a profit of 8 to 10 per cent. American beer is at a disadvantage in this market on account of the bad packing and greater weight of the packages. The breakage on beer coming from the United States is always much more considerable than on English or German beer, amounting in many cases to 20 per cent. In a tarifit which is entirely specific and by which duties are levied uniformly on the gross weight of packages, with no deductions for breakage, excess of weight is a serious drawback to the handling of American beer. It is the opinion of several dealers in that article in this district that if these objections could.be removed American beer would compete successfully with all other importations. , CHARLES DE BLANC, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Puerto Cabello, February 20, 1890. BRITISH WEST INDIES. ANTIGUA. REPORT BY CONSUL JACKSON. MALT. Breweries do not obtain in these parts j consequently there is no demand for malt. BEER. In connection herewith attention is drawn to a table of statistics which shows the amount of business done in ale and beer during the last decade. It will be noticed that there has been a considerable fall- ing off of imports. The explanation is laid to the increase in the con- suption of whisky, which is considered healthier than strong ale and beer. Complaints are constantly made that "Bass's is too heavy for this climate," meaning that it is clogging to the system. On the other hand a feeling is growing in the public mind that lager- beer is the proper drink on account of its lightness, and in support of this the statistics show an increase in imports of lager from the United States. The business in lager-beer is about confined to one New York brewery and one dealer, who sells most of the beer by the dozen and half dozen pints, m bottles, to families. MALT AND BEEK IN SPANISH AMERICA. 371 Beer is not sold on tap, and when imported in wood is drawn off into bottles. The duty is $2.40 on a cask containing 52 Imperial gallons, or 18 cents per dozen quarts in bottles and pints in proportion. British beer is packed in barrels of 7 dozen pints or 4 dozen quarts and sells wholesale at about $7.20 per barrel and is retailed at 12 cents per pint or a little less for a quantity. Wholesale dealers charge 5 per cent, commission for selling and for storage at the rate of 5 cents per barrel for the first mouth and 2 J cents for each succeeding month. The charges for porterage and cooperage are small. In case the goods are closed out at auction there is a charge of 5 per cent, for the auctioneer. This is a favorite mode of closing consign- ments. Shipments should be made in pints. CHESTER JACKSON, Comul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Antigua, April 17, 1890. Amount and invoice value of ale and beer imported into Antigua from the year 1880 to 1890, inclusive. Year. Ale and beer from Great Britain. Lager beer from United States. Gallons in wood. Value. Quarts la glass. Value. Quarts in glass. Value. Total value. 1880 7, 882$ 9,609$ 4, 845£ 3, 619* 6,302!| l,497g 3,8061 1, 725$ 1, 591* 3,203 $3, 031. 00 3, 796. 00 1, 864. 00 1, 392. 00 2, 424. 00 561. 60 1, 264. 98 570. 12 584. 98 1, 088. 32 Dozens. 3,486 5,653 4, 363 4,549 3, 959 2,680 3,492 3,797 2,362 2,760 $4, 879. 60 7, 926. 24 6,151.32 6, 368. 88 5,591.04 4, 390. 38 5, 803. 72 6, 300. 38 4, 093. 96 3, 920. 60 Dozen*. 5 7 25 $8.40 11.76 42.00 $7, 919. 00 11,734.00 8, 057. 32 7, 760. 88 8, 067. 12 7, 963. 74 7, 058. 70 6, 870. 56 4, 894. 24 5, 310. 72 ]881 188° 1883 1884 31 6 52.08 11.76 1885 1886 1887 25 114 160 42.50 215.30 301.80 1888 1889 .. . THE BAHAMAS. REPORT BY CONSUL M'LAIN, OF NASSAU. • MALT. There is no importation of malt into this colony. BEKR. There is no manufacture of beer in these islands. Beer is imported from Great Britain and the United States. That re- ceived from Great Britain consists principally of Bass's No. 3 ale, Bass's pale ale, Tenants' pale ale, Guineas' stout, and Barclay & Perkins' 372 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. porter. Small quantities of some other make are sometimes received. Importations from the United States are made up of Milwaukee Imperial lager beer, Bavarian lager, lluppert's lager, and Beadleston & Woerz's beer, with an occasional consignment of some other brand. The quantity imported in 1888, the last year I have statistics for, is as follows: From the United States, 1,057 dozen quarts, valued at $1,854.18, all in bottles, and 536 gallons in wood, valued at $243.32; from Great Britain, 836 dozen quarts, in bottles, valued at $1,411.34, and 8,667 gallons in wood, valued at $3,615.05. The duty charged on beer is, in wood, per gallon 12 cents, and in bottles, 24 cents per dozen quarts. The duty is the same, no matter whence the beer is imported. Bass's No. 3 ale and Barclay & Perkins' stout are generally imported in casks and bottled here, and sold at $1.20 per dozen pints, or retailed in saloons at 12 cents per pint. Bass's and Tenant's pale ales and Guiness' stout are generally imported already bottled, and are sold at $1.08 per dozen pints and retailed at 15 cents per pint. American beer is imported mostly in bottles, the Milwaukee Imperial selling at $1.68 per dozen pints, Bavarian at $1.44, Ruppert's and Beadleston & Woerz's at $1.32 per dozen pints; all retailed at 15 cents per pint. There is no special method in vogue for placing beer on the market. It is imported and sold same as ordinary merchandise. The quantity of American beer sold in this colony is gradually increasing, but at a very slow rate, indeed, compared with the increase in many other lines of goods. The two principal drawbacks to its in- troduction are the price of the beer and the tastes of the consumers. Dealers say they can make a better profit in handling British beer than our American production. They can buy it cheaper to start with, and can sell it for as much when landed. The rmgority of beer-consumers here prefer the British, as it is stronger and they like its flavor bet- ter. They have always been used to it, and do not care to give it up. Even at a greater price most Englishmen would choose the Brit- ish beer so long as his taste remains unchanged. The greater portion of the beer sold here is Bass's, imported in casks and bottled here. This is generally sold at $1.20 per dozen pints, and sometimes as low as $1.08 per dozen to retailers; and this is really the beer our brewers must compete with. There is considerable profit in^this to dealers. It is asserted by some that the beer is u doctored " here before bottling, but I do not indorse the statement nor vouch for it, although it is evident to any one that when it is imported in casks there is an opportunity for dishonest persons to tamper with it to their own profit. American beer must be sold to importers here at such price as will en- able them to sell it at from $1.08 to $1.20 per dozen pints, and make as large a profit on it at that figure as they do on Bass's ale. This has not yet been done, and it is really the first step in the whole business, for I have no idea that the people here will be willing to pay more for American beer than for British. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 373 There then remains the other objection, viz, the beer- consumer's taste. I think that can be reached better through the matter of price than in any other way ; for if a beer-drinker can buy his pint of Ameri- can a trifle cheaper than his pint of British, he will be likely to try it? at all events, and may thus come to like it. It is a well-known fact that British exporters increase their foreign trade in all lines by finding out just what their customers want as to quality, style, price, etc., and then at once meeting these requirements, and American exporters must do the same if they would succeed. Now, apply this principle to the beer trade. I do not believe that Brit- ish colonists in these islands, or indeed in any of the West Indies, care very much for American lager beer, and it will take much time, if in- deed it can ever be done, to cultivate amongst them a preference for American lager over Bass's ale. Is it indeed worth while to try ? Is lager beer the best beer for the tropics ? Is it not better adapted to the temperate zone ? Now, would it not be more sensible for our brewers to manufacture for the West Indian trade a kind of beer which their would be cus- tomers already like and are ready and anxious to buy? Couldn't this be done more easily than to try to change the tastes of whole commu- nities? It is this principle of manufacturing and exporting goods to suit prevailing tastes, instead of attempting to change these habits in their customers, that has made British foreign trade so successful the world over. If our brewers will make a kind of beer that is as strong and that will in other respects resemble Bass ale closely and will furnish the same to Bahama importers as low as they can buy the British ale, they can soon supply this colony and, I doubt not, the entire West Indies, with all the beer they care to consume. Permit me to mention an objection urged against our lager now being imported here, which is this, that the metallic capsules over the corks are too thin for. hot climates- The British ones are twice as thick. When the covering is so thin roaches, rats, and all sorts of vermin, whose name is legion, will gnaw holes in it to get at the glue or gum that coats the top of the cork. This gives the bottle an unsightly and damaged appearance and dissatisfies a purchaser. The remedy is thicker capsules, which should be attended to. The favorite drink of thepeople of these islands — the masses, I mean — is beer, Holland gin, and cheap grades of Jamaica rum. The gin is im- ported from Great Britain and the rum in schooners directly from Jamaica, which carry thither salt and bring back sugar, coffee, and rum. I think the above is substantially all the information I can give ou this subject which would be of benefit to our brewers. THOS. J. McLAiN, JR., Consul, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Nassau, January ±3, 1890. 116 A 4 374 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. BERMUDA. REPORT BT CONSUL BECKW1TH, OF HAMILTON. MALT. No malt is imported here for brewing purposes, and no brewing is carried on here, as the climate does not admit of it, the temperature rarely going as low as 50° Fahrenheit. BEER. Lager-beer is largely imported here from New York. Bass's ale and Guinness' stout and porter are imported here chiefly from England. These beers and ales are imported both in bottles and in wood. Duties thereon are $4.86 per hogshead in wood, or in bottles 24 cents per dozen quart bottles or 12 cents per dozen pint bottles. Tbe kinds of beer and ales above mentioned appear to be the most suitable and popular for use here. The prices are as follows: $26.76 per hogshead, ale or stout, hogs- head containing 52 to 54 gallons (Imperial). Beers vary from $1.95, $2.17, $2.29 per dozen quarts bottled according to quality. Pints, bot- tled, about one-half the above prices. No malt is imported. Imported ales and beer brought in wood are sold by the wholesale importers to retail dealers, who place them on the market. Beer and ales are placed on the market by the retail dealers. I am informed by the chief dealers that their profit on a hogshead of ale or stout is about $2.43, and that the cause of the very low price of imported ales and beers from Great Britain is that the competition be- tween the brewers who ship here is so great that they are willing to sell for whatever price their product will bring. HENRY W. BECKWITH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Hamilton, Bermuda, February 6, 1890. DOMINICA. % REPORT JBY COSULAR AGENT STEDMAN. MALT. Malt is not imported into Dominica, there being no breweries. BEER. The malt liquor consumed is principally Imported from Great Britain, but small quantities are also obtained from Germany, France, and the United States. MALT AND JiEEK IN SPANISH AMERICA. The following table will show the imports for 1889 : 375 Articles. Whence imported. Quantity. Value. United Kingdom Hhds. 52 £. g. 312 0 Barbadoes 13 78 0 French ports 1 6 0 66 396 0 ml ale in Inittlca . .......... ...... United Kingdom Dozen. 52'i 209 0 Barbadoes 5121 205 0 Trinidad ... 126 50 8 Leeward Islands 19 7 12 United States 41 1 16 French ports 10! 4 5 Danish ports . 8 3 4 Germany ...... 167 66 ^ MTOJ" 548 1 The imports from Barbadoes, Trinidad, and other islands, although classified under those heads, are mostly imported from Great Britain to these places. The light beers are beginning to be used and are preferred by a great many people. The climate is not suited to the consumption of strong beers. A small quantity of the Philip Best Brewing Company's Milwaukee export beer has been imported and highly appreciated. It is considered superior to the German lager-beer. Beer in bulk is the kind mostly imported by liquor dealers, who bottle it for retail purposes. It is sold at from $2.50 to $3 per dozen quarts, according to quality. English bottled beer sells at from $3 to $3.50^ There is no wholesale trade in beer. The duty on beer has lately been increased from 6d. to 9d. per im- perial gallon, which has tended to check the consumption. WM. STEDMAN, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Dominica, March 18, 1890. JAMAICA. REPORT BY CONSUL ALLEN, OF KINGSTON. TVTAT/T. During the last fiscal year there was no malt imported into the isl- and of Jamaica. This fact is developed by an examination of the records of the custom-house. A small quantity is locally prepared; none, how- ever, is sold, the estimated cost of production being $1.25 per bushel. In this connection I would state that during the same period above 376 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. mentioned hops were imported as follows : From the United States, $1,641.71; United Kingdom, $119.10. BEER. Under the general heading beer, ale, beer, and porter are embraced, and no records are obtainable showing the amount of each imported. Gallons. United Kingdom 186.537.1 United States 11,082 Other foreign states 229.6 Total 197,848.7 Beer from the United States is imported in pint and quart glass bottles ; from the United Kingdom, small importations in casks, the greater por- tion being, however, in pint and quart glass bottles; other foreign states, in glass pint bottles. Duties, 12 cents per gallon. The variety known in the United States as lager beer. Prices as follows: Barrels of 10 dozen pints, $12.50; barrels of 6 dozen quarts, $12. Domestic beer: In casks, 30 cents per gallon; in pints, 35 cents per dozen. .Retail prices foreign beer, as follows : Pints, 12 and 15 cents; quarts, 18 cents ; domestic, 9 cents, pints. Beer from the United Kingdom is usually sold on consignment, while that from the United States, as a rule, is imported direct by the dealers here, either through their agents in the United States or purchased from the brewers themselves, and is sold by merchants to dealers in packages containing 10 dozen each. Packages containing 10 dozen pints are most convenient for this market. About one year ago an American firm started a beer depot here, importing lager-beer from the United States in pipes of 190 gallons each. This beer was bottled at the depot in this city and sold at the rate of $1 per dozen pints. The business of this firm was short-lived, owing, I think, to bad man- agement principally. The demand for American lager-beer is steadily increasing throughout the island of Jamaica. The light and sparkling appearance of the lager without the bitter- ness, together with the neat appearance of the bottles, makes this beer a general favorite. Recently a formidable competitor to the American lager-beer has ap- peared in the market in the firm of Tennant, of England. This com- pany has commenced the brewing of lager- beer and has recently sent a large consignment to this market for trial, which was, in my judg- ment, inferior to the best American lager in color and quality and is not so pleasing to the taste, but by reason of the reputation of this firm as ale brewers their lager will, at least for a time, find sale. Tbis beer is sold at about the same price as that charged for American lager. It must be borne in mind that the statistics of importations from the MALT AND BEER IX SPANISH AMERICA. 377 United States as given ;il>ove apply exclusively to lager-beer, while those from the United Kingdom refer almost entirely to ale and porter. It will thus be seen that by far the greatest quantity of beer consumed in this island is of American brewing. In my report to the Department concerning the Jamaica Exhibition it will be noticed that 1 have recommended that exhibits of lager-beer be made. Such an exhibit will be calculated to materially increase a a demand for American lager. W. G. ALLEN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Kingston, Jamaica, February 7, 1890. MONTSERRAT. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT HANNAH. MALT. No malt is ever, or, so far as I am able to ascertain, has ever been, im- ported into this island. BEER. I find that the average importation of beer for the past three years has amounted to about 1,000 gallons per annum, all from the United Kingdom, either direct or through one of the neighboring British West India Islands. Of the above quantity about 220 gallons would be in English reputed quarts, about 360 gallons in reputed pints, and the remaining 420 gal- lons in bulk, the latter being bottled here before offered for sale. The duties charged here are 12 cents per dozen quarts, 6 cents per dozen pints, and $2.80 per hogshead of 50 gallons. The kinds of beer imported are English pale ale and brown beer or stout, in proportions of about two-thirds of the former to one-third of the latter. Some small quantities of lager-beer have been introduced, but this does not find' much favor with consumers. The wholesale cost of beer at port of shipment averages about $1.G8 per dozen quarts, $1 per dozen pints, and 40 cents per gallon in bulk, and the retail prices here are from 20 cents to 24 cents per quart and 12 cents per pint bottle. I am of opinion that the consumption of beer is on the decrease, and this decrease I attribute in a great measure to increase in consumption of cheap wine, as well as to a general feeling that beer is an expensive drink and not well suited to the climatic conditions of health. RICHARD HANNAM, Consular Agent, UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Monteerrat, March 1!», 1890. 378 MALT AND BEER IN .SPANISH AMERICA. NEVIS. REPORT BY CONSULAR A OH NT SIMMONDS. Malt liquors are not much consumed in this district. The original im- portation takes place at St. Christopher's (the head of the Presidency) and shipped to this place coastwise in small lots. It is generally im- ported in hogsheads of 54 Imperial gallons (on which there is an import duty of $2 per hogshead and sold for $20) and in bottles packed in barrels and cases of 4 dozen quarts and 8 dozen pints, on which there is an import duty 12 cents per dozen quarts and sold for $7, subject to a slight fluctuation. English bottled beer has hitherto been most used, though there is sale for foreign lager-beer. German brands of lager-beer have hitherto been most used. I believe that American brewed beer could be placed on the market in the manner I have already described with successful results. CHAS. H. SIMMONDS, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, N&cis, March 19, 1890. TRINIDAD. REPORT BY CONSUL SAWYER. MALT. No malt is imported, the climate not permitting brewing. BEER. Malt liquors are chiefly imported in barrels and cases, each contain- ing 7 dozen pints and 4 dozen quarts. Lager-beers are rapidly driving the heavy English ales out of the market. Hitherto the German lagers have been monopolizing the Trinidad market, but the English brewersj being fully alive to the situation, are erecting lager-beer fac- tories in England and Scotland, and within the past few months some shipments of English brewed lager from the firm of Messrs.1!. & B. Teunaiit have been received here and the beer, being of Al quality, has had great success. Heavy stouts, such as Guinness's Dublin, are found too heavy and also too expensive for the Trinidad trade, but a large business is done in cheaper stouts, brewed chiefly in Scotland. Consumption of stout in Trinidad is about 2,500 barrels per month and of lager-beer about 1,000 to 1,200 cases. Prices range from $6.50 to $6 per 7 dozen pints, both stout and lager-beer ; $6 to $5.50 per 4 dozen quarts lager-beer and stout. MALT AXD BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 370 Malt liquor in wood is also imported, but the quantity is small and prices obtained very low and unprofitable. Import duty, Is. per dozen quart bottles, Orf. per gallon in wood. Malt liquors are chiefly handled by commission agents, who are paid a percentage on sales made. Sales are made at three months. Trial imports of lager-beer from the brewery of , in the United States, have been made at Trinidad and have proved a failure, in so much that the same had to be sold at the low rate of 80 cents per dozen for barrels containing 10 dozen pints. Small kegs of fresh lager, contam: ing about 6 gallons, are usually imported from Boston by the im- porters of ice at an average of about 150 kegs per year; value, $6 per ke.u'. These kegs when empty are returned to Boston to be refilled. MOSES H. SAWYER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Trinidad, January 30, 1890. DANISH WEST INDIES. ST. THOMAS. REPORT OF CONSUL TURNER, OF ST. THOMAS. BEER. Beer imported into this colony is brought from Denmark, mostly. a> the following, taken from the import statistics for the year ended March 31, 1889, will show: Value of beer imported from Denmark, $11,465 ; Great Britain, $3,466; Germany, $1,752; United States, $1,138; Can- ada, - Danish beer sells here for $1.75 per dozen quart bottles, which is a reduction of the former price, and the American beer for $1.87 J. The former is strongly impregnated with alcohol, made so for this climate especially, and is of the brand known as Carlsberg. The American article is of a lighter quality. I am reliably informed that the proprietors of the Carlsberg brew- eries are ready for a still further reduction in price in order to hold the trade. The amount imported into Santa Cruz is as follows : From Denmark, $7,751 ; from the United States and other countries, $717. The duty is 12£ per cent, ad valorem. In that island Carlsberg beer has been universally preferred, but a lighter and cheaper beer, known as Tuborg, is fast becoming a favorite. Carlsberg costs $8.20 per barrel of four dozen quart bottles, and retails at 25 cents per bottle. The American beer imported is of Philadelphia and Milwaukee brands, but very little is brought in. It sells for L^ cents per bottle. Besides the above men- 380 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. tioned there are two cheap brands imported in barrels in bulk from Denmark, viz, Kongun and Aldersro. MORTIMER A. TURNER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, 8t. Thomas, March 1, 1890. DUTCH WEST INDIES. CURA90A. REPORT BY CONSUL SMITH. Very little malt is imported here. Nearly all the beer used is made in Germany. It is put up in bottles. The quantity of beer imported into Curagoa can not be ascertained. The import duty is 1J per cent, on the invoice value. The average price at which beer is sold is about $1.50 per dozen small bottles. L. B. SMITH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Cura$oa, January 28, 1890. FRENCH WEST INDIES. GUADELOUPE. • REPORT BY CONSUL BARTLETT. MALT. There is no beer brewed in Guadeloupe ; therefore there is no malt import. BEER. There was imported from the United States, in the year ended De- cember 31, 1889, 247 barrels of bottled beer, besides a few smaft kegs imported in the ice vessel. There was imported from France, also, about the same quantity of bottled beer, put up in baskets of one dozen bottles, each bottle containing one quart. There was also, from London, one small invoice of bottled beer, in cases of six dozen pint bottles, marked " Tottenham export Pilsener beer," which, I think, does not take here, as the consignee has a large portion of that invoice on hand at present. The American lager beer has a preference over all others. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 381 The price at wholesale of American la^er beer is (30 francs = $11.58 per barrel, and the retail price is 50 centimes — $0:9.65 for n pint, and 1 I'm no = 19.3 cents for^a quart. The wholesale price of beer from France is from 7 to 8 francs = $1. .">."> to $1.54 per basket of a dozen quart bottles ; the retail price is 1 franc = 19.3 cents per bottle. The duties on imported beer are 7 francs = $1.35 per hectoliter. Imported beer is sold by the importers to jobbers and by the jobbers to retailers, but I will observe that the French people of this colony are not great beer drinkers j in consequence the consumption thereof is very small. CHARLES BARTLETT, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Guadeloupe, February 20, 1890. MARTINIQUE. REPORT BY CONSUL GARESCRti. I have the honor to report that, after correspondence with the French officials here, it is impossible for me, as yet, to give statistics of the im- portation of beer to this colony during the year 1889. In a final letter of the 17th of March, Mr. Ch. De Solms regrets his inability to give me, as chief of the custom-house service, the information I have called for, but tells me that in the year 1888 72,379 liters of beer from France and 29,948 liters from other than French countries were imported here. Xo records are kept of the countries from which the latter importa- tions are made, but inquiries made by me of the mercantile community justify me in saying that they are almost exclusively American in pro- duction, and that all beers are received here in bottles packed in casks or hogsheads, the lighter kinds of beer being most suitable to the Creole palate. Lager beer in kegs pays a duty of 3.20 francs ; in bottles a duty of 4.30 francs per hectoliter, equivalent to about 22 gallons. WM. A. GARESCHE, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Martinique, March 18, 1890. 382 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. SPANISH WEST INQIES. CUBA. BARACOA. REPORT BY COMMERCIAL AGENT PRYOR. MALT. There is no malt imported into or used in this district. BEER. All of the beer consumed in this district is shipped here from Havana and Santiago de Cuba. There is but two kinds of beer handled here. Kobert Younger's pale ale, in earthen pint bottles, is the only brand that is consumed here to any extent. All brewers and dealers in beer of the United States know the quality of this ale ; it is very heavy, and the dealers here say that it is not so well suited to this trade as some of the lighter American beers, but is handled in preference to American beer because it is cheaper; it is delivered at Baracoa for $1.95 per dozen pints, and retails here at 23 cents per pint. There is a small quantity of German beer consumed here, Salvator Bier, in glass pint bottles. This is lighter and better than the pale ale but is too expensive for this market ; it costs, delivered in Baracoa, $2.55 per dozen pints, and retails at 28 cents per pint, but there is so little of this brand used here that it is hardly worth mentioning. I know of a small shipment of Milwaukee beer that was made to this port several mouths ago from New York. It cost in Baracoa, duties and freight paid, $2.07 per dozen pints, and was retailed at the same price that the English ale sells for. The dealer did not renew his order on account of the difference in the price of it and the English ale, but says that he would handle it in preference to the English ale if he could get it as cheap. The duty on beer is 84 cents per dozen pints. The imputation of this district is 18,000, the annual consumption of beer is about 18,40ft dozen pints. There are several importers and merchants here who I think would handle American beers on commission if they could get it at prices that would enable them to place it upon the market at the same price or a little cheaper than the English ale is sold for. If this could be done I am sure that the American beer would displace the beer that is now consumed here, and the trade would increase. HENRY -Gr. PRYOR, Commercial Agent. UNITED STATES COMMERCIAL AGENCY, Raracoa, February S. 1S90. MALT AND IJEEtt IN SPANISH AMERICA. 383 CIENFUEGOS. REPORT BY CONSUL EHNINQER. BEER. No malt is imported into this consular district. Imports of beer and whence imported during the year 1888 were as follows : Mouth. Country. Port. Liters. Quarts. United States New York 90 93 Great Britain Liverpool 2 700 2,781 750 77" Great Britain Glasgow 5, 100 5,253 March 360 371 Great Britain Glasgow 3,050' 3, 142 April... Mav ....do Belgium Liverpool Antwerp . 1,800 3 450 1,854 3 554 Great Britain 3 500 3 605 Bremen 1 600 1 648 Great Britain Glasgow 7,425 7,648 July United States Great Britain New York Liverpool 135 17,000 139 17, 510 Alienist Unhed States New York 45 46 Great Britain Glasgow.. 18 585 19, 142 do Liverpool 0 775 G 978 October United States New York . . 450 403 3 360 15 4(51 United States New York 144 148 Dscember . . . .... Great Britain .... Glasgow 6,300 6,489 United States New York 180 185 Total 82 799 85 282 XOTE.— In bottles only; none imported in the wood. From the foregoing statement it will be seen that 74,402 quarts, or S7 per cent, of the total importation for 1888, came from Great Britian via ( 1 lasgo w and Liverpool. This was almost entirely from Teiiuant & ( 'o.'s Well Park Brewery, Glasgow, and is imported in casks of 10 dozen pint bottles, and cost here .$4, Spanish money, per dozen quarts. .Next in order, constituting 11 per cent, of the importation, is the Her- man product, from the Salvator brewery, located in Bremen. This sells a little higher than the Scotch beer; say $5 Spanish money, per dozen quarts, or two dozen pints. Last of all, and composing 2 per cent, of the importation of 1888, comes the lager beer from the United States, principally from Milwaukee, and the Anheuser-Busch brew- ery ; this retails at about the same price as the Salvator beer. During the past year I have noted in the coffee-houses lager beer from the the Empire Brewery of New York, which seems to have some sale, although the high price, 30 cents, silver, per pint bottle, makes it rather a costly luxiuy. 384 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. Duties and cost of a cask of 10 dozen pints. Custom-house duties, $10 Spanish, equivalent to *f>9. 32 Freight from New York, per Ward Line steam-ships 1. 45 Cartage, etc 30 Total expenses 11. 07 It will thus be seen that the duties are nearly prohibitive. HENRY A. EHNINGER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Cienfuegos, February 24, 1890. HAVANA. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL WILLIAMS. MALT. There is but one local brewery in Havana, and its production is esti- mated at about 3,500 barrels a year. As I am informed, this brewery imports its malt from Liverpool at a cost of about 40s. the 336 pounds. The duties on malt at the custom-house here are $1.05 the 100 kilo- grams (220 pounds) and 25 per cent, additional. The production of this brewery sells at an average of $10 per barrel. BEER. The principal importations of beer are from England, Scotland, Ger- many, and the United States. It is generally imported bottled, in casks of 7 to 8 dozen pints. Lager beer, to the extent of about 400 kegs a month, is also imported from New York, and has a ready consumption. Duties here on ale and porter are, in wooden packages, $3.65 per 100 liters (nearly 26 J gallons) 5 in bottles, $8.35 per 100 liters. The following are the latest market quotations of price, taken from Spencer's Weekly Eeport : $4.50 to $4.75 per dozen bottles for Ten- 11 ant, and $12 to $12.75 per barrel for Globe and Younger marks, in quart bottles. The same publication gives the following as imports for 1889 : From the United States, 297 boxes ; 209 barrels ; 2,611 casks. From Europe, 3,331 boxes ; 5,532 barrels 5 12,268 casks. EAMON O. WILLIAMS, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Havana, January 23, 1890. "United States currency. MALT AND HKKIi IN SPANISH AMEKICA. 385 SAGUA LA GRANDE. REPORT £T COMMERCIAL AGENT MULLEN, MALT. Noiinportatiou of malt of any kind is made, nor is malt of any kind prepared at this port. BEER. Direct importation of beer is made from England by but one firm, who imports monthly seventy-five barrels. Other firms bring from Havana some 125 barrels, making a total consumption of about 200 barrels per mouth, or 16,800 half bottles. All of the aforementioned beer comes in stone bottles from the Well Park Brewery of J. E. Tennant, England. This beer is sold at wholesale at $14. per barrel, Spanish gold, or £12.90 United States currency, and retailed at 25 cents per half bottle, or $21 Spanish gold, or $19.45 United States currency. For a great number of years this beer was the only one known or used ; but of late years American lager beer has found great favor with the public, and is fast taking the place of English beer. Lager is imported directly from the United States but by one firm, who imports monthly from 20 to 25 barrels, each barrel containing ten dozen half bottles. An additional five barrels are brought from Havana, making a monthly consumption of some thirty barrels, or 3,000 half bottles. The cost per barrel of ten dozen half- bottles at wholesale is $17 Span- ish gold or $15.74 United States currency, and retailed at 20 cents per bottle ($24 Spanish gold per barrel or $22.27 United States currency). The duties on beer of all kinds is as follows : If imported in wood, for each hectoliter $3. 65 25 per cent, war tax 91 Total 4.56 Less 5 per cent 23 Net total -. 4.33 A local tax of $2.50 per each hectoliter 2.50 Total (Spanish £old) 6.83 Total (United States currency) 6. 32 If imported iu glass or stone, for each hectoliter 8.35 •J.") per cent, war tax 2.09 10.44 > per cent 52 Total «j. 92 A local tax of $3.75 per each hectoliter 3.75 Spanish -,,1,1 1:{.67 L'jiited States currency 12.65 386 MALT AND BEEK IN SPANISH AMERICA. The approximate duty on one dozen half-bottles is 85 cents United States currency. CONSUMPTION. The beer most suitable for local consumption must be of a light amber color 5 it must also be of light body and bottled in clear glass bottles. The label on the bottle forms a very important feature in its sale. A label containing some striking feature that takes the eye and is easily remembered becomes popular and is called for by the label, the name of brewer being ignored. Beer of a medium brand bottled as above directed would find a better sale than beer of a first-class quality bottled in dark glass bottles and poorly labeled. D. M. MULLEN, Commercial Agent. UNITED STATES COMMERCIAL AGENCY, Sagua la Grande February 10, 1890. SANTIAGO DE CUBA. REPORT BY CONSUL REULER. Until a few years ago, no American beer found a market in this con- sular district, and even now (and that after considerable trouble) only one firm of manufacturers, Beadleston & Woerz, of New York, sell their beer, Imperial and Culmbacher brands, and beer in kegs, to the largest restaurant here. To arrive at approximate statistics of the actual consumption of beer in this jurisdiction, the writer has interviewed the importers here, and has also secured statistics of imports from the custom-house of this city. The custom-house states that during 1889 there were imported from — New York : Liters. In pint bottles 5,094 In kegs 892 Total 5,986 Liverpool, in pint bottles 86,280$ Bremen, in pint bottles ... 4, 353 Havre, in pint bottles * 1,650 Total 98,269$ It is impossible to determine how much of the importation from Liver- pool is English ale, and how much is Salvador beer (German), as all beer from Europe is shipped from Liverpool here in Spanish steamers. The Spanish customs tariff, sections 8 and 9, imposes the following duty on beer : SKC. 8. Beer and porter in the wood (the capacity of the keg, 51 centimeters high, 31 centimeters in diameter at the heads, even should it contain 31 liters or 32, MALT AND BEKR IN SPANISH AMERICA. 387 is supposed to contain only '29 liters of beer, owing to the fact that space must be left for the exclusion of gases) pays per keg : Spanish production, $1.1575 ; foreign pro- duction, $:t.37lW, United States currency. SKC. 9. Beer in bottles, glass, or stone (in addition to the number of liters, the num- ber of bottles or half-bottles must be stated in the custom-house entry), Spanish pro- duction, per barrel of, say, 10 dozen pints, one-half liters, $2.6854 ; foreign production, per barrel of, say, 10 dozen pints, one-half liters, $7.7321, United States currency. To both these sections 25 per cent., less 5 per cent., must be added to the duties and port charges, atthe rate of $0.926 United States currency, per 1,000 kilos weight. Internal-revenue tax amounts to 10 J cents Spanish, or $0.09723 per liter. Beadleston and Woerz American beer is sold here, retail on draught, at 10 cents a glass, and per bottle at 30 cents Spanish gold. The consumption amounts to about 20 to 25 kegs, of 8£ gallons, per year, and 100 barrels of bottled beer in pints during the same period. It is my opinion that great impetus could be given this trade by our manufacturers making small trial shipments free of charge, and adver- tising extensively through the country and towns. The English bitter beer has the largest sale and is largely consumed. The American beer sells at 30 cents a bottle, the English at 20 cents. As very little ice is consumed in this city and none whatever in the country, the stronger English bitter beer is preferred by the people of this province, both for its cheapness and for the longer time it retains its force. Our beer manufactured at home is greatly superior to English and German brands, and with the enormous advantages we enjoy, our close proxim- ity to these shores, and consequent cheaper ocean freights, there is in the writer's opinion no reason why we can not undersell and drive all other competitors from the field. As to consumption of beer, importers give the writer the following figures, for whose correctness we can not vouch : Liters. American brands, principally Beadlctson and Woerz, and a few cases of Mil- waukee beer, say, per annum 6, 000 Tennant's and Gounger's English bitter beer, per annum, about 10,800 Salvator Bremen beer (German;, per annum, about 6,000 Total 22,bOO Selling prices of American brands are about $2.50 Spanish, or $2.315 United States currency, per dozen pints. Tennant's and Gounger's bitter beer, $20.50 Spanish, or $18.5663 United States currency, per case of 10 dozen pints, one-half liters. Bremen Salvator beer sells at $18.25 Spanish gold, or $16.8995 United States currency, per case of 8J dozen pints. Other brands of English ales and beers, such as Tottenham brewery, Adjutant brand, Bull Dog brand, etc.. have been received in small consignments, but, owing to their higher prices, have found no sale. It will take a good 388 MALT AND BEEK IN SPANISH AMERICA. deal of advertising and expense to supplant Tennantfs bitter beer in this province, which beer is also solely consumed in Guantanamo, Manza- nillo, and Santa Cruz. OTTO E. KEIMER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE. Santiago de Cuba, February 1, 1890. SAN DOMINGO. PUERTA PLATA. EXPORT BY CONSUL SIMPSON. MALT. No malt is imported into this district, nor is any beer made here. BEER. The imports of beer during 1889 were 14,904 dozens half bottles, and the value (custom-house) $10,583.59. The duties amounted to $5,503.16, or 52 per cent. With the exception of some 200 dozelis from the United States, and a smaller quantity from Norway, the entire amount was re- ceived from Germany. All beer is imported in cases, generally of 3 dozen half bottles, that from Germany costing about $5.17, Mexican duties paid, per case (depending on exchange) and from the United States 20 cents per dozen half bottles more. It is sold at wholesale from $5.50 to $5.78 per case, and retails for $2 per dozen. There are a number of different brands imported from Germany, but the one most favorably received is labeled with a long T. Parties who have received the article from the United States complain that in one or two months7 time it is entirely unfit for use, while that from Germany keeps for years. This is probably due to the greater amount of alcohol contained in the latter. Beer, to meet a ready sale in this market, must be strong and well bottled or it will not keep, % The beer manufactured in the United States is undoubtedly su- perior in quality to any other imported here, but it is useless to expect people to drink an article that they know nothing about, when they are getting one that suits them. I would suggest that if any manufacturers consider the trade of this district worth looking after, that they procure a sample of the kind most in demand, analyze it, and see if it will pay to make. THOS. SIMPSON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE. Puerto Plata, March 9, 1890. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. 389 SUPPLEMENT. Statement showing the export* of American leer and hops, by countries, during the year 1883. Countries to which exported. Malt liquors. Hops. In bottles. Not in bottles. Dozens 3,244 Dollars 5,978 Gallons DoUan Pounds. Dollars. 46 41 7,443 11,392 11,213 9,659 13, 417 16,037 655 106 1 1, 169 17, 478 13, 558 14,488 17, 847 17,806 1,314 204 Central American States • Costa Rica... ...... 10,348 7,962 69 160 740 150 1,543 2,158 1,139 9 30 139 36 258 Guatemala Honduras . . . Nicaragua San Salvador ...... 50 9 CDJli China 265 496 100 13 Greenland Iceland, and Faroe Islands 345 784 2,952 685 287 668 1,540 5,741 1,073 443 2,665 533 1,650 3,79d 425 1,071 50 n Miquelon, Langley, and Saint Pierre Islands.. . 3,445 1,136 Frenc h Possessions in Africa and adjacent isl'ds. 80 2,094 768 690 92 88 2,339 1,386 1,344 200 390 4,377 11, 386, 087 469, 073 38 1,510 2,570,562 106, 854 80 20 Scotland Gibraltar Nova Scotia, N.Brunswick, and Pr. Edward Isl'd Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, and the N. W. Ter. . British Columbia 187 6,269 7,343 347 7,470 9,013 7,918 32, 282 10,384 1,885 6,503 3,311 20,047 282,076 134,746 8,780 14,165 2,664 58,899 34,496 792 2,434 "Newfoundland and Labrador British West Indies 6,840 210 2,984 1,445 622 111 48,512 12,666 415 4,851 2,927 733 218 84,877 8,640 3,199 British Honduras . ..... . ..... .. . 35 36,639 1, 872 6 7,387 239 75 27 British Possessions in Africa and adjacent ial'ds. British Possessions in Australasia 159, 744 25, 376 British Possessions, all other Hawaiian Islands ...... ........... 41, 457 8,660 47,092 15,771 21,562 7,162 3,230 512 399 115 Havti Italy--- 260 47 105,940 361 4,710 250 586 640 371 95 65,700 704 8,932 527 971 831 27 9 18,068 2, 721 t Liberia .. ... MEXICO r-- w--r»»»- 42,688 16,358 e,5» 1,222 10 Dutch West Indies Dutch Guiana Peru Azore, Madeira, and Cape Verde Islands Russia, Asiatic' ^ 882 549 126 100 4,450 10 6.542 3,586 536 2 21,067 1 795 7,493 23 11,834 6,382 1,034 5 34,445 3 317 Spain Cuba 29,959 7,478 2,107 2,810 394 391 Porto Rico Spanish Possessions in Africa and adjac. isl'ds . . Sweden and Norway • United States of Colombia 7,503 1,714 6,285 1,347 13, 308 54 3,995 23,263 100 4,481 6,202 1,404 All other countries and ports in Africa' 160 20 Total 175,069 575, 089 70, 059 50,307 2, 589, 262 2,823,832 f 116A- 390 MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA. Statement showing the imports into the United States from the several countries, of beer, malt, and hops, during the year 1890. Countries from which im- ported. Malt liquors. Hops. Malt, barley. In bottles or jugs. Not in bottles or jugs. Gallans. Dollars Gallons. Dollars. Pounds. Dollars. Bush. Dollars. Anstr'firlluPffairy _. 320 18 186 10 173,427 26, 331 274, 693 30, 025 85, 718 10, 846 13, 206 10, 129 Bolivia Bi ttzii ............ Central American States: Costa Rica ...... San Salvador Chili China . -• Denmark 245 108 Greenland, Iceland, and the France ... ...... 365 211 French West Indies French Guiana Miquelon, Langley, and Saint Pierre Islands French Possessions in Af- rica and adjacent isl'ds French Possessions, all other 13, 332 6,903 524, 963 118, 119 3, 781, 355 1, 034, 762 271 458 German* Possessions in Af- rica and Australasia England . 657, 144 49, 391 412, 545 529, 310 35, 501 370, 557 610, 484 11, 265 52, 962 243, 001 4,624 13, 526 83, 680 22, 062 216 200 33 199 228 53 Scotland Ireland Gibraltar Nova Scotia, N. Brunswick, and Pr. Edw. Island Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, and the N. W. Ter 14, 863 610 262 6 11, 137 521 325 6 104 411 33 113 1,662 495 136, 256 100, 314 Newfoundland and Lahra- British West Indies British Guiana British East Indies British Possessions in Af- rica and adjacent islands. British Possessions in Aus- British Possessions, all 10 7 Italy «j apa.n 748 255 819 162 Netherlands 15 4,728 1 1,588 Azore, Maderia, and Cape Russia on the Baltic and Russia on the Black Sea Cuba 10 8 941 472 Turkey in Africa Total 1, 151, 065 956, 243 1, 373, 616 405, 747 4, 176, 158 1, 155, 472 150, 182 111, 381 CONSULAR REPORTS. FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. KKWRTS, FROM THE CONSULS OF THE UNITED STATES, ON FRUIT CULTURE IN THEIR SEVERAL DISTRICTS, IN ANSWER TO A CIRCULAR FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE, ARRANGEMENT. Page. PART I. The Orange and the Lemon 399-585 PART II. The Olive 587-727 PART III. The Fig. 7^9-769 PAKT IV. The Vine 771-867 PAKT V. Supplement 809-937 WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE, 1890. FRUIT CIRCULAR, DEPARTMENT OF STATE, Washington, September 28, 1889. To the Consular Officers of the United States : GENTLEMEN: At tbe request of the California State Board of Horti- culture, acting through. Mr. B. M. Lelong, its secretary, the inclosed series of questions relative to the cultivation of oranges, lemons, figs, and olives is sent to you for reports. You are requested to give such information iu response thereto as you can acquire without expense to the Government or to yourselves. But should you find it impracticable to make a satisfactory report without outside aid, you will submit to the Department an estimate of the anticipated cost before you obligate yourself for any specific sum. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant, ALVEY A. ADEE, Acting Secretary. QUESTIONS ABOUT ORANGES AND LEMONS. (1) Name of best variety for profit. (2) Names of other choice varieties worthy of culture and for profit. (3) Location — where are the trees grown that produce the varieties named above ? (a) Distance from sea. (fc) Elevation above sea-level. (c) Exposure to sun. (d) Hilly, rolling, or level land, and which is beat ? («) Soil formation and character, also subsoil, etc. (4) Climatic influences. (a) Temperature— minimum, maximum, and average. (6) Nights celd or warm, sultry days, moist, ordinary atmosphere. (c) Rain-fall, in inches, for year. (d) When rain falls, as to growth of trees and fruit? (5) Irrigation — when and how T (a) At what stage of growth of fruit? (&) How much at a time, and how often, and other particulars ? (6) Cultivation — when and how ? (7) Fertilizers — what, when, and how applied? (8) Pruning — what stage of growth; high from ground or low, and particulars? (9) Picking. (a) When picked. (&) Stage of ripeness. (c) How cured. (d) Packing and shipping. 394 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. (10) Distance planted apart. (11) How are trees propagated ? (12) Are best varieties seedling or budded? (13) Are orchards large or small? (14) Age of fruiting; age when largest crops; maturity of trees. (15) What insect pests, and how treated ? (a) Are there any beneficial insects ? (&) Are there any parasites of the injurious insects? (c) Name parasites, and tell how they work. (16) Give particular information as to picking and curing lemons before shipping, season picked, etc. (17) Send any printed information aa to processes ; prices or statistics issued by Gov- ernment or otherwise. QUESTIONS ABOUT FIGS. (1) Name of best variety for drying. (2) Name of best variety for eating when ripe. (3) Name of other varieties worthy of culture and for profit. (4) Where are the trees grown that produce the varieties above named ? (a) Distance from sea. (&) Elevation above sea-level. (c) Exposure to sun. (df) Hilly, rolling, or level land, and which is best. (e) Soil and subsoil character. (5) Climatic influences. (a) Temperature — minimum, maximum, and average. (&) Rain-fall, in inches. (c) When rain falls, as to growth of trees and fruit, and how much and effects ? (6) Irrigation — method, when and how much, and during what growth of trees and fruit ? (7) Cultivation — when and how ? (8) Fertilizers — what, when, and how ? (9) Pruning — when and how ? (10) Picking. (a) At what stage of ripeness, time of day, etc.? (&) Give process, from picking to boxing of figs, minutely. (e) Are they dipped in some solution ; what and how ? (11) Distance planted apart. (12) How are trees propagated ? (13) Are orchards large or small ? (14) What age do trees attain and how long fruitful ? (15) What insect pests, and how treated ? (a) Are there any beneficial insects ? I (&) Are there any parasites of the injurious insects ? (c) Name parasites, and tell how they work. (16) How are cuttings of best varieties to be secured ? (17) Can you secure any printed matter, such as reports, methods, or statistics issued by Government or otherwise, and send us ? QUESTIONS ABOUT OLIVES. (1) Name of best variety for pickled olives. (2) Name for best variety for olive oil ? (3) Names of other choice varieties for pickles (eating) and oil, worthy of culture and for profit. FRUIT CIRCULAR. 395 (4) Where are the trees grown that produce the varieties above? (a) Distance from sea. (&) Elevation above sea-level. (c) Exposure to sun. (d) Hilly, rolling, or level land, and which is best. (e) Soil and subsoil character. (5) Climatic influence. (a) Temperature — minimum, maximum, and average. (&) Rain-fall, in inches. (c) When rain falls, as to growth of trees and fruit, and how much ? (6) Irrigation— method, when and how much, and during what growth of trees and fruit. (7) Cultivation— when and how t (8) Pruning— when and how T (9) Picking. (a) At what stage of ripeness, both for pickling and oil. (6) Next step after picking. (c) Give minutely the process of pickling and making oil until completed ready for market. (10) At what age do trees commence fruiting ? (11) What is the average yield per tree or acre ? (12) What distance apart planted ? (13) How are trees propagated ? (14) Can you give other information that will help growers of olives in California to succeed I (15) Can you secure any printed matter, reports, methods, or statistics issued by the Government, agricultural colleges, newspapers, or otherwise ? (16) What insect pests, and how treated ? (a) Are there any beneficial insects ? (&) Are there any parasites of the injurious • insects f (c) Name parasites, and tell how they work. PART I. ORANGES AND LEMONS. 397 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. ORANGES AND LEMONS . CONTINENT OP AFRICA. CAPE COLONY. REPORT BY CONSUL HOLLJS, OF CAPE TOWN. The time was, and not so long ago, when the orange crop of this colony meant a good revenue to the farmer. With the advent of the Australian bug, whose scientific name I have forgotten, all this is changed, and in place of trees loaded with luscious fruit now only re- main a few blackened stumps to mark where the orchards once stooa. No systematic effort was made to eradicate the pest, A. saying it was useless for him to struggle against the evil while B., whose orchard was close by, gave the bug free license to breed and multiply. I have just heard of a new method of destroying these insects which may be worth a trial. It is to make a cross incision in the bark |_- shaped, and after rolling back the bark dust the wound with flowers of sulphur. Wax and bind up as after budding. Years ago I found that the juices of the squash vine was a solvent of sulphur and would take it into the circulation of the plant. At all events, it will cost nothing to try, and will do no injury to the tree. GEO. F. HOLLIS, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Cape Toicn, March 5, 1890. 399 400 FEUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. EGYPT. In reply to the circular of the Department, dated September 28, 1889, asking certain questions about the cultivation of oranges, lemons, figs, and olives, I have the honor to inform you that these fruits are not cul- tivated to any extent for commerce in this country, although they are sometimes to be found in private gardens. EUGENE SCHUYLER. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Cairo, November 22, 1889. MOROCCO. REPORT BY CONSUL MATHEWS, OF TANGIERS. (jRepullished from Consular Reports No. 41£.) Varieties. — As most of the trees are seedlings, the varieties are numer- ous ; the most valuable are the round, sweet orange, and the small aromatically flavored fruit known as the Mandarin orange. The Man- darin is the most valuable. Maturity. — Nine years from seed; two years after grafting or budding. Seedlings remain fruitful over a century ; grafted or budded, from thirty to forty years. Propagating. — They are propagated from seeds, inarching, grafting, budding, and by cuttings. Planting. — Fifteen feet apart, or about 150 trees to the acre, if graft- ings ; seedlings, 20 feet apart, 100 trees to the acre. Insect pests. — Various vine-fretters and kermes are very troublesome, and cause considerable damage to orange trees. The common remedy to a certain extent is to wash the trunk and main branches with a lotion of lime-water, and by watering the leaves with the hand pump. Trees too closely planted, or placed in damp and shady localities, or even not properly pruned to permit light and air through all their branches, create a parasite or leaf disease known as the "demantiumimono- phyllum " or charcoal, which covers the leaves with a black adhesive dust ; also the " lichen auranti, n which appears as a crust of a gray whitish color. The bad state of health of the trees creates these para- sites and fungus. I have cured these with petroleum, which must be applied in a mixed state by churning milk and petroleum to a consis- tency of cream, as petroleum mixed with water is often injurious. These liquids are unmixable, and when applied in some parts only the petroleum touches the trunk or leaves, and on the others the water alone, while, if well mixed with milk, the strength of the petroleum is ORANGES AND LEMONS IN AFRICA — MOROCCO. 401 reduced, tlic application is uniform, and the results most certain and beneficial to nil trees. « Situation. — Orange orchards are planted both inland and on the sea- coast, on valleys, hillsides, and uplands. They yield best results in well-drained low-lying lands sheltered from the cold north winds. Some are within 200 yards of the sea on the sand. Irrigation. — They are irrigated artificially, mostly from wells from which the water is drawn by animal power, with very primitive draw- wells. Cultivation. — The ground is manured and cultivated with a heavy hoe once a year. The yield and proceeds can not be ascertained in Morocco. The cost of cultivation, including manuring, in the best orange orchards is at the rate of 25 cents per tree per annum ; labor- er's and pruner's wages from 18 to 20 cents per day. OBSERVATIONS ON ORANGE CULTURE. In any country where the medium temperature in winter is superior to 40° and in summer rises to 85°, the cultivation of orange orchards can be made lucrative. Orange trees are not particular with regard to soil ; they grow lux- uriantly in the sand, and even in strong and very inferior soils, pro- vided they are manured and copiously watered in the summer. There have been empirics who have written on the orange trees and on the manner of composting the soil, recommending all sorts of filthy uos trums and unwholesome composts which nature never designed, and nobody can form an idea of the mischief which such people do. In nine cases out of ten the leading cause of failure, where trees get diseased or where neither fruit nor flowers are had with any certainty, is due to ill-treatment and poisoning of the roots with the obnoxious mixtures. Seedlings are always preferred, as they stand cold weather and their yield is enormous ; besides, the objects to be attained in raising the orange trees from seed, are, first, to procure new varieties, all of which are more or less acceptable as to size, flavor, and shape ; secondly, to provide hardy stocks for grafting or budding known fancy varieties, in preference to grafting or budding on stock raised from the cuttings of citrons, or even of orange cuttings, which are more delicate, of less growth, and short life. In recurring to budding, the hardiest stock of all is that of the bitter or sour orange, the most beautiful of the tribe in form, elegance of foliage, and abundance of fruit. When the medium atmospherical temperature of the spring has reached 70° the seed may be sown and watered regularly, and in fifteen days they will come up. If the seeds are from the finest, ripest fruits, there will be no necessity of budding to perfectionate the fruit. The fruits from trees raised from seed are the earliest and stand transportation well ; the flowers of these trees stand the cold weather best. 402 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Excessive dampness and humidity in the soil produces the "chlorosis," or yellow of the leaves, which at last ends in destroying the tree. Excessive aridity of the soil is also another cause of suffering to the orange tree, but does not cause its death. Strong winds only cause the fall of the fruit before ripening. The fogs and white frost of spring sometimes cause an alteration in the orange tree, which afterwards is shown in the shape of reddish spots on the exterior part of the skin of the fruit, which renders it unfit for use VARIETIES CULTIVATED. The races and varieties known are innumerable, the majority of which are still unclassified. The most interesting are divided in eight groups, namely: (1) sweet orange, (2) sour orange, (3) Mandarin orange, (4) limes, (5) Bermagots, (6) Pampelmuses, (7) lemons, (8) citrons. (1) Sweet orange. — The sweet orange raised from seed in a warm cli- mate is a vigorous tree, which reaches the height of 15 feet ; its foliage large and oblong prolongated, of a dark brilliant green. The flowers are hermaphrodite and pure white. The fruit is quite round, with a smooth, yellowish skin. It commences to ripen in the middle of Novem- ber, and in March arrives at full maturity. Trees from seed without grafting give the largest crops, and it is not unusual for an adult tree to produce from three to four thousand oranges per annum. These trees, if conveniently sheltered from the cold winters, live centuries. Grafted or budded orange trees hardly grow higher than 10 feet in their proper! climate, while in others they only reach 6 or 7 feet, and even less, and their life is short. The principal sweet-orange trees which are selected by those engaged in the orange culture are the Bigaradia (Citrus vulgaris bigaradia) Imperial, the Royal Bigaradia, the Bigaradia of silvery leaf (C. vulgaris argentea), the Bigaradia of spotted leaf (C. vulgaris varie- gata), the Bigaradias of double flower and of violet flower, and the Big- aradias of round fruit, angulated fruit, spotted fruit, and crowned fruit; also the Bigaradia of myrtle leaf and that of double flower, producing cake-shaped fruit; the Balearic or Mallorea orange, large, smooth, thin skin, of vigorous growth; the Portugal or China orange, of less growth than the Balearic, but producing very large fruit; the orange of Nice, highly favored in Provence for its elegance and beautiful fruit. The Maltese or blood orange is very rich, and also an abundan^ bearer, the fruit having a pulp stained with crimson ; the foliage resembles that of the Portugal or China orange. There are numerous other varieties, most of which are more nominal than real, mostly the results of hybrid- izing, and which are more of a botanical ornament than of profit. (2) Sour orange. — The sour or bitter orange, many of which have curi- ous and very interesting foliage, portly and handsome trees, with gold and silver-striped leaves, myrtle leafed, willow leafed, plain and striped, tricolor striped, juid many others very showy. The flowers of these trees bring the highest prices in market. Their fruit is preferred for ORANGES AND LEMONS IN AFRICA MOROCCO. 403 confectionery, marmalades, etc. The sour or bitter orange tree is still more rustic and hardier than the sweet orange from seeds, and its growth is more rapid. There is of this tribe the China sour-orange tree, which is dwarf, only growing to about 4 or 5 feet in height the most. (3) Mandarin. — The Mandarin orange, originally from China, propa- gated also from seed, was introduced in Europe about the middle of the present century ; only grow from seed to a height of 12 feet, and to about 6 feet when propagated by grafting or budding. The pulp of the Man- darin orange is almost free from the rind ; the latter is very aromatic. The Tangerine orange, recently introduced in Europe, is a variety of the Mandarin; its fruit is less than half the size of the Mandarin, in fact often no larger than a walnut, but exceedingly sweet and perfumed. The Japanese orange is a shrub which the Chinese cultivate on a large scale, and known by the name a Kumkoat; " is almost unknown in Eu- rope; it attains a height of 4 feet, and by pruning it is grown in pots, where it only grows to about 20 inches, covering itself with a fruit no larger than a good-sized cherry. The rind is so thin and smooth that it is eatable. They are preserved whole in sugar. I have four in pots from 15 to 18 inches in height with ripe fruit ; they have ripe fruit from De- cember to April; they resist the cold weather better than the hardiest of the orange tribe, but in summer they require hot weather to bring their fruit to maturity. I strongly recommend this interesting and profitable shrub to our California orange-growers. One acre of land will accommodate 500; manure annually, and if possible in summer. An irrigation or two of manure water will bring the fruit to perfection. (4) Sweet limes (Citrus limeta). — The sweet-lime tree has the bearing and foliage of the lemon tree ; small white flowers ; the fruit more or less large or small, according to the varieties ; its color is of a pale yel- low ; the pulp is an insipid sweet, slightly bitter. The varieties known in the south of Spain and in Morocco, where they abound, are the u Roman," the " Melaroce," and " St. Jerome." (5) Bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia). — Tall tree; oblong leaves of medium size, of a lively green on the upper surface and paler on the under part than the other varieties of orange; very small flowers and of a particularly mild aroma. The fruit is depressed in shape, smooth, and of a lemon-yellow color ; the pulp is slightly sour and of a pronounced aromatic flavor. The chief varieties are the common Ber- gamot, the orange Bergamot, the sweet lemon Bergamot, and the Adam apple Bergamot, and some others which probably are only monstrosi- ties propagated by grafting. The cultivation of the ordinary Berga- mot is very lucrative by the great quantity of volatile oil extracted from the rind of its fruits. (6) Pampelmuse. — Pampelmuse ( Citrus decumana) probably is a species entirely distinct from the preceding, nevertheless it has certain similari- ties to the natural ordinary sweet orange from seed ; it grows the same height ; very few thorus. It differs in foliage — broad leaves and large 404 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. flowers of a pure white. The fruit is depressed and of immense size, of a pale yellow, and only matures on the second year ; they require shelter and a warm locality. The " Lumias " are a variety of the Parnpelmuse. (7) Lemons (Citrus limonum). — This species is more a large shrub than a small tree 5 they require a warmer climate than oranges do 5 their flowers are white inside and reddish on the outside. There are numer- ous varieties. They require less irrigation than the orange tree ; are easily propagated from cuttings, which the dealers in orange trees use extensively for budding or grafting. (8) Citron. — There are various varieties — the ordinary citron, the lemon citron, the St. Jerome citron of very large fruit, the Florence cit- ron, and the sweet citron ; the flowers are reddish, pink, white, and violet. It grows well in narrow valleys where the heat in summer is retained during the evenings; it grows admirably on the shores of the Mediterranean in almost any soil, and is easily multiplied from slips or cuttings, which are also used for budding or grafting by the dealers and venders of orange trees. For California I would recommend raising sweet oranges from seed or grafting the seedlings or stocks of the sour orange, the hardiest of all for cold winters. Observations on pruning. — The flower and fruit are produced on the young wood of the current season generally. The pruning has in view three objects: first, to keep the branches from being too numerous, and thereby making the foliage too thick, so as to exclude air and sun to a great part of the head ; secondly, to check those branches which grow too vigorously for the rest of the tree ; thirdly, to remove old and bare wood and make way for the young. The weakest branches should also be removed, and the pruning should be done on dry days during the months of February and March. No shoots should be allowed to grow below the head, unless left for the purpose of propagation by layering in pots and thus obtaining young additional trees. The orange tree spreads its roots close to the surface 5 care should be taken not to disturb them when cultivating the soil around the trees. Nothing is wasted of the orange tree. The leaves, the flowers, and the fruit are all a source of profit ; they all constitute a branch of com- merce. On pruning the trees the leaves are gathered from the cut branches, dried, and they sell in the markets of Europe from $14 to $4. per hundred- weight. The flowers are sold for the distillery and other purposes in France at 25 cents per pound. Oranges for exportation are gathered in November when their color begins to change from green to a yellowish ; the second gathering for short distances is made in Decem- ber, and the last for the nearest markets in February and March. FELIX A. MATHEWS, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Tangier, April 2, 1884. CONTINENT OF AMERICA. MEXICO. GUERRERO. REPORT BY CONSVL SUTTER, OF ACAPULCO. (Rcpnblished from Consular Report No. 41£.) Varieties. — Sweet and bitter oranges, navel oranges, lemons, limes, shaddocks, citrons. Limes and sweet oranges are the most valuable. Some 15,000 boxes of limes, representing for the growers a value of about $25,000, are ex- ported annually per steamers of the Pacific Mail Steam-ship Company to San Francisco. Brought to town, selected, and packed for export, this fruit costs, more or less, $3 per box. Only small quantities of oranges are exported to San Francisco per steamer from December to February, before the crop from the islands in the Pacific overstocks the market. Oranges are obtained at $5 per thousand, but on account of high rates of freight can not compete in the San Francisco market with the fruit imported from those islands. Maturity. — Lime trees which are allowed to grow like a bush, with branches rising from the roots, commence to bear at the age of four years, and are in full bearing when eight years old; in good soil and with but very little care the tree will attain the age of fifty years. This tree is indigenous, whilst the other varieties of the citrus family are said to have been imported. Orange trees commence to bear at the age of five years, are in full bearing at the age of ten, and will remain fruitful fully as long as the lime tree. Propagation. — All the trees are seedlings. Insect pests. — Ants are the only insects which are injurious to the trees, much more to the orange than to the lime trees; people protect their trees in various ways from ants with more or less success. The ants are destroyed by digging up their nests, or are kept off' the trees with fine sand, fire, water, petroleum, etc. Fungous growth and other parasites are not found in such abundance as to seriously injure the trees. Planting. — Most of the trees are planted very irregularly, in selected, favorable spots, which may keep moist all the year round. In a few 405 406 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. newly laid out lime-tree plantations the distance between trees is 20 feet in every direction. Situation. — Anywhere, mostly in moist places along small streamlets or gulches on the hill-sides, in low bottoms along rivers, or near the sea-shore ; in sandy black loam they yield the best results ; the sweet- est and thin-skinned oranges usually grow on hill-sides, whilst the fruit of lowlands is generally thick-skinned. Some orchards are in close proximity to the sea-shore, in sandy black loam, in some instances with lagoons or brackish water on the side op- posite to the sea-shore, and give very excellent results. Thus situated there is one, newly, regularly planted, of 8,000 lime trees and 100 orange trees, with room for many thousands more, and with the advantage of cheap transportation by water to Acapulco, the port of shipping. Irrigation. — Xo system of artificial irrigation is in use ; the ground between trees is not cultivated, but merely kept free of undergrowth and weeds, lands being as yet of but nominal value. Yield. — As the orchards are not regularly planted and the trees are scattered here and there without any regard to economy in laud occupied, it is utterly impossible to state even only approximately the yield or cost of cultivation of an acre per annum. One orange tree from the age of eight years up to fifty years of age in ordinarily good conditions will yield on an average 3,000 oranges every year, worth, picked, $4 per thousand. A lime tree from the age of eight years to the age of fifty bears fruit all the year round, and will yield about 8,000 per year, worth on the tree, say, $L<>. Land being but of nominal value, no interest on capital invested in the same or any ground rent is to be taken in account: nothing is irri- gated, consequently the cost of cultivation is very little, say $150 per annum for an orchard of several hundred trees. There being no export market for the other varieties of the citrus family, they are of comparatively little value, and only raised for home consumption. JOHN A. SUTTER, JR., Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Acapulco, February 15, 1884. SONORA. REPORT BY CONSUL WILLAIID, OF GUAYMAS. On receipt of circular, I addressed letters to several of the orange growers in the interior of Souora (for at Guaymns but few oranges are grown) and in reply was informed that, as the cultivation of oranges as a business in Sonora dates back only a few years (since the Sonora railway has been in operation, 1882), they did not feel competent m giving a proper report. ORANGES AND LEMON® MEXICO. 407 I am told that the first plants or cuttings of oranges cultivated in So- nora were brought by the Jesuit fathers ninety years ago from Italy, and planted at the missions of San Jos^ de Guaymas and Hermosillo. But little attention was paid to their cultivation excepting for home con- sumption, as there was no market for them on the coast (as they are grown from Guaymas to Panama), and no quick transportation existed to take them to a market north. After the Sonora Railway was fin- ished it furnished the means of getting them to a market in the United •States, and in 1883 a small shipment was made with good results, and since then orchards have been planted and oranges now figure as an article of export to the United States by rail. In 1888, 14,000 boxes of 200 oranges each were shipped. The fruit is sold on the trees at from $G to $8 per 1,000, being purchased by fruit dealers through their agents, who pick, pack, and ship the fruit. The Sonora orange commences to ripen in November, and by the end of December the fruit is nearly all harvested. Orange trees are grown along the sea-coast, and in the interior of the country up to 3,000 feet altitude. Bottom lands have been used for this purpose heretofore, but I am told some orchards have been recently planted near Herinosillo (inland 100 miles from Guaymas,) on rolling lauds and hillsides. The trees are irrigated throughout the year, particularly in the dry season, which commences in October and ends in July. The trees are raised from the seed of the sour orange and are set out or planted 30, 40, and 60 feet apart j the second year are grafted or budded with the sweet orange. They commence to give a small quantity of fruit the third year after grafting, and are in full bearing condition in the eighth year, yielding, if well grown, from 1,000 to 1,500 oranges per tree. No insect pests have appeared as yet to destroy the tree or fruit. Lemons, figs, and olives are cultivated to a limited extent. These fruits from the few trees cultivated are used for home consumption alone, none being exported. A. WlLLARD, Consul, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Guaymas, Mexico, November 13, 1889. LOWER CALIFORNIA. REPORT BY CONSUL VIOSCA, OFLAPAZ. Varieties. — The Castillian orange (Naranja de Castillo) is the best variety known here for profit, supposed to have been introduced by the early Spaniards; of recent years seed and young trees brought by fruit growers from the States of Siualoa and Sonora have been planted in 2 408 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. different orange orchards, resulting in quite an improvement in the quality and flavor of the fruit over the old orange-producing trees in the country ; other varieties are of limited production, such as man- darin, pear and king orange and not of sufficient quantity for export. The citrus family comprises here six species fruitful and profitable for cultivation. Citron, shaddock (torouja), large lemons, limes (citrus limetta) lima, sweet lime, king orange. The lima chichona, or sweo« teat lime, weighs commonly from 12 to 14 ounces and is very delicious. The king orange is the production of an orange tree, a young shoot grafted into a sweet lime tree and in time from that to a shaddock or torouja, and finally a shoot from this last is again grafted on a common orange tree. Each of the orange fruit weighs from 4 to 5 pounds, and are of very delicate and sweet flavor and also exempt from acid. Situation. — The locations where the trees grow are San Antonio, San Jos6, and La Paz. San Antonio is 56 miles from the sea ; the other places are ports of entry. Elevation of the first-named town, 1,200 feet; the other two are in a level valley, all fully exposed to the sun. Level land is best. The soil here is alluvial, sandy, and the subsoil within four feet under is of clay and gravel. Temperature. — The average temperature is 85°, minimum 60°, maxi- mum 93°, Fahr. During winter nights are lightly cold, never warm, but quite warin during the day. In summer, sultry days very seldom and the atmosphere generally very clear. Bain commences in July and ends in October, in time to assist the growth progress of fruit. Irrigation. — Irrigation is practiced all the year round. The citrus family have to be watered every three or four days, and give them as much water as possible. Cultivation. — Young trees are transplanted in the month of Septem- ber, and also in February, and the cleaning of trees takes place in De- cember. Fertilizers. — Cow and other manure is used as fertilizer, but in set- ting young trees a circular hole is excavated of 4 feet diameter and of 3 or 4 feet depth, and about a 4-iiich layer of old cattle bones is put down, and on the top of it another 6 inches of clay, and after another 6 inches of manure, and following common soil. The tree is set on the top of that. The best results have been obtained that way. Pruning. — First remove the inner superfluous shoots living at the ex- pense of the sap of the tree, and cut all other unnecessary branches to allow circulation of air. It is evidently proved that the tree should be allowed its full growth from ground. It is best either to protect it from hot breezes or from the heat of the soil, and even from frost, as gen- erally the upper part only suffers, and the rest of the tree is fully pro- tected. picking of oranges takes place early in. ORANGES AND LEMONS CENTRAL AMERICA. 409 whence they are just ripe enough for shipping. Oranges are cured by buying them separately under 4 or 6 inches of very dry sand, in a shaded and ventilated place, for a month or two, after that they can be taken out, will look proportionally fresh, and will keep in that condition for six months. Packing and shipping. — When packed for export the oranges are wrapped in paper and packed in special boxes. Planting. — Orange trees are planted 20 feet apart, lemons 15 feet, and limes 20 feet. Orange trees are propagated by seed, shoots from roots, and by branch cuttings. Some orchards are quite large and others are small. Maturity. — Fruiting begins at five or six years from the time the seed is planted ; when the tree is fifteen years old and upwards it produces the largest crop of fruit. The full maturity of the tree is uncertain. Insect pests. — Trees here are very seldom troubled with insect pests, with the exception of some seasons, by an insect in the shape of a tick, called manteca, which is very easily removed ; but sometimes worms in the shape of teredo on the roots kill the tree beyond cure. JAMES VIOSCA, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, La Paz, December 21, 1889. CENTRAL AMERICA. GUATEMALA. REPORT OF CONSUL-GENERAL HOSMER. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the circular submit- ting a list of questions regarding the cultivation of oranges, lemons, figs, and olives. In reply, I beg respectfully to state that the fruits referred to are of spontaneous growth in Guatemala, and are not cultivated or exported. They grow in nearly all parts of the Republic, from the sea-level to an altitude of 5,000 feet above it, and are freely consumed by the popu- lation, but without care or effort in their culture. JAMES K. HOSMER, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Guatemala, December 9, 1889, 410 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. SOUTH AMERICA. BRAZIL BAHIA. INTRODUCTORY. I have the honor to report the following concerning oranges anil lemons, as called for in the circular dated September 28, 1889. As neither tigs nor olives are grown here in the State of Bahia, noth- ing need be said of them. Very little attention is paid even to the cultivation of the orange or the lemon ; so little, that all that are grown are used in the place, none being exported even to adjoining States. The supply is so limited as practically to prohibit exportation, on ac count of the very high price that must necessarily be paid for them. Should one wish to send a box of selected oranges to a friend in the United States, he must pay for such box of one hundred, packed ready for shipment, 12 £ millreis, equivalent to $6.1 2£, and this in the orange season, too. Therefore, as none are grown except for home consump- tion, it seems quite useless to answer the questions in the order in which they are submitted. ORANGES. Varieties. — The best variety is called Lavanja de embigo or navel orange. These oranges are seedless. When properly cultivated they grow to a great size and have a most delicious flavor, being also very juicy. It is not an infrequent thing to find oranges of this class weigh- ing a kilo each, and often a little more, and measuring in circumference from 18 to 20 inches. The orange of this class of ordinary growth measures from 12 to 15 inches in circumference. The other varieties, not choice, however, are Lavanja de terra, or Se- ville orange, which has rather a bitter taste, with seeds, and not as large, nor of course as fine a flavor, as the Lavanja de embigo. Another kind is the Laranja de Cravo or tangerine, similar to the tangerine of Florida, with seeds. The fourth and the last class is the Laranja brabo, or wild orange, with pips also. Whatever cultivation is given the navel orange receives, though some attention is being given to the tangerine. Situation. — Anywhere along the sea-coast. I have been informed they may grow anywhere in fact in the State. As there is no land in the State that is cultivated that has any great degree of elevation, it may be said they will grow at any elevation. Soil. — Clayey soil mostly about and in this city. Some sandy. In the interior of the State more of an alluvial nature* The character of ORANGES AND LEMONS — BRAZIL. 411 the subsoil is presumably much the same as the soil. In most cases the subsoil lias never been turned up. The land is never prepared by plow- ing it. The grass and weeds, when cut away at all, are cut by large hoes. Climatic influences. — Along the coast the mercury ranges between 76° and 92° in the shade. In the interior, especially on the higher eleva- tions, the range is greater. Cool nights and very moist atmosphere. Rain-fall in inches, I do not know. Generally the rainy season begins about April 1, continuing to November 1, though there are frequent showers in the dry season from November to April. Consequently, as the fruit is usually picked from May to August, it ripens in the rainy season. Irrigation. — There is no irrigation. Cultivation consists simply in cutting the grass and weeds that spring up whenever needed, and is done, as stated, with a large hoe. In a very few orchards the ground is seeded with grass, which is cut when green, after which the soil is loosened with the hoe, then animal manure is scattered broadcast through the grove. Pruning. — Pruning is done after the tree reaches its fifth year, or there- abouts, say 4 to 6 feet from the ground. It is then continued every year thereafter, while the tree has growth. Picking. — This depends on the demand, as they are not shipped. Peo- ple will buy them only when ripe, consequent^ they are allowed to remain on the tree till reaching the stage of ripeness. Were the oranges to be shipped, the picking before being ripe, would, of course, depend upon the length of time occupied by the steamer to the place of destination. Planting. — The trees are planted from 12 to 16 feet apart, and propa- gated by cuttings in Bahia. The orchards are very small generally. Maturity.— The trees commence to bear in about five years. If the trees are properly cared for, largest crops are obtained from the eighth to the twentieth or twenty-fifth year in the life of the tree. Much de- pends, of course, on the seasons — whether very dry or very wet. They are fruitful for thirty to forty years. Insect pests. — A sort of white worm, which is destroyed by brushing the trunk of the tree with a mixture of clay and water, or rather paint- ing it with the liquid mixture. LEMONS. There are but two varieties of lemons in this State. The one called Lima doce, or sweet juice; the other Limao, an acid, nearly round lime. This lime is abundant, but is not cultivated to any appreciable extent. It is much more acid than the lemon proper, and is known, I believe, by the scientific name of Citrus limetta, the lemon being known as Cit* rus limonum. As the limes are not shipped there is no curing, no packing. They are picked whenever there is a demand for them and, like oranges, may 412 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. be obtained nearly the entire year, though like the oranges they are best in their season, which is the same as the orange season. There are no statistics issued on the subject from any source. Prices of both oranges and lemons depend on the supply. The lowest price for the best quality of oranges is about 4 vintins, equal to 4 cents. The maximum price is about 8 vintins, say 8 cents. Lemons, or limes, may be bought from ten for 1 cent to one for 3 cents, depending on the supply 01 scarcity. D. N. BURKE, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Bahia, March 1, 1890. BRITISH GUIANA. REPORT BY CONSUL WALTHALL, OI*DEMERARA. • ORANGES. Varieties. — The oranges grown in this colony are known as tangier- ine, bitter, sweet, and myrtle. Under the term u sweet," several varie- ties are included, which have no distinctive name. Situation.— The groves are on the coast lauds and banks of the rivers, inland from the sea, varying from a few hundred yards to several or many miles, but scarcely above the sea at all, as the alluvial laud lies mainly below the level of spring-tides. The cultivated lands are gen- erally open, with little shade, and almost exclusively level. The soil is alluvial, forming a stiff blue clay, with a superficial covering of u pe- gass," or vegetable mould. Climatic influences.— The year consists of two wet and two dry sea- sons, more or less irregular in duration. December and January are generally rainy; February and March usually dry ; April (in whole or in part), May, June, July, and sometimes August, are more or less wet, May and June being generally very rainy ; September and October almost invariably very dry, as is sometimes a part or the whole of No- vember. February, April, August, and November are, however, very variable and uncertain. I The temperature is singularly uniform. The extremes on the coast are about 70° and 90°, Fahrenheit. The difference between day and night is more marked than the variations of either the day or the night temperature at the different seasons. The mean maximum temperature of the days is about 87° ; mean minimum of the nights, about 75°. There are not many days that can properly be called sultry, as good breezes generally prevail at all seasons. The rain-fall is variable, ranging within the last twenty years from 52 to 108 inches, but averaging about 85 or 90 inches. ORANGES AND LEMONS — BRITISH GUIANA AND ECUADOR. 413 Irrigation. — None, except what is merely incidental. (See reports of the undersigned, of August 2, 1889, on Irrigation and Drainage, and of November 8, 1889, on Canals, etc., in British Guiana.) There is practi- cally no cultivation in this colony of any fruits except plantains and cocoanuts. Fertilizers. — No fertilizers are ever used. Pruning. — No pruning is ever done. Picking. — Gathered when mature, but while still green. Usually kept dry, but no system of curing followed. None are exported. Planting. — There are no regular plantations. Therefore there is no system as to distance apart. The trees are propagated exclusively from seed. The trees are usually mixed with other plants, and there- fore variable in extent. Maturity. — The trees begin to bear when from five to seven years old. They mature at the age of from ten to twenty years, which may be re- garded as the period of greatest production, although this is largely dependent upon various circumstances. Insect pests. — Orange scale insects on the coast, and parasol ants in the interior. No treatment adopted as a rule. LEMONS. Very few, if any, lemons are grown in this colony. Limes are cheap and abundant but not systematically cultivated, picked, or cured, and none are shipped. No statistics issued. Neither figs nor olives are grown in British Guiana. W. T. WALTHALL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Demerara, February 20, 1890. ECUADOR. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL SORSBY OF GUAYAQUIL. ORANGES. There is but one variety. Location. — The distance from the sea depends upon the sea-level. Elevation above the sea-level 1,000 to 1,500 feet. Exposure to the sun continuous. Level land is best, soil and subsoil formation ; lime and sandy. Climatic influences. — Temperature 50° minimum, 88° maximum, 70° average. Nights warm and moist; sultry days in dry season ; atmos- phere extremely dry. There are two distinct seasons. In the dry sea- son it is never wet, and in the wet it is never dry, the rain-fall for four 414 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. months being very hea\y. When rain falls, the growth of the tree and fruit is attained. Irrigation not practiced. Cultivation. — Plowing during rainy season. No fertilizers used. Pruning. — Not resorted to. Picking. — Picked in the dry season, June and July, mainly, and picked half ripe for export, but ripe for home consumption. Packing and shipping. — Packed loose, and shipped to Peru and Chili exclusively. Planting. — Distance planted apart 12 feet ; propagated by seed ; none but seedlings. The orchards are small. Maturity. — Age of fruiting begin at five years ; age of largest crops at ten years ; maturity of trees ten years. Insect pests — There is an injurious insect pest known as the Pulgou, which kills the tree. LEMONS. Picking. — The lemon is small, and is picked green both for home con- sumption and for export, and ripens after it is gathered. There is no method of curing. They are picked in the dry season, mainly in June and July. Curing. — There is no particular process; the fruit is handled, both in gathering, stowing, and shipping, by hand. Yield. — The best information I can get is that the yield of the orange is about 1,500,000 per annum, the price being about 80 cents sucre,* or, say, CO cents gold, per 100. It is practically impossible to get the yield of the lemon. There is exported s^bout 60 boxes of 500 each, and the price is about 300 sucre or $2.10 United States gold per box. WILLIAM B. SORSBY, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Guayaquil, March 10, 1890. ECUADOR. REPORT SY CONSUL BEACH, OF GUAYAQUIL. (Republished from Consular Reports, No. 41|.) Notwithstanding its very restricted domain, it is probable that no country in the world possesses so great a variation of climate as Ecuador, which ranges from the temperature of perpetual snow to that of perpetual summer, neither essentially changing with the alternations of the seasons. The ice and snow at all times cover the summits of Chimborazo and other mountains of great altitude, while in the lower sections the mercury ranges between 65° and 85°. The aucre i.s the monetary unit of Ecuador. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN ECUADOR. 415 The soil is h-ss varied than the climate in characteristics, though possessing several elements. The lowlands are either loam unmixed, sandy loam, or clay loam. The surface of the uplands, with scarcely an exception, is of volcanic origin — lava, scoria, porphyry, etc. As in some other part of South America, notably Venezuela, the exposed rocks are undergoing a constant decomposition, producing a soil every- where in some degree fertile. In Ecuador even the lava has been so disintegrated as to form a soil. Those giving attention to botany un- derstand that each of the vegetable species needs specific elements to promote germination and conduce to development. Some require ele- ments other than a favorable soil or temperature. A portion of the vegetable kingdom matures only after passing through the extremes of heat and cold, and which would not survive under a continuous sum- mer temperature. The cocoanut tree, as an illustration of the special requirements of many species of plants, may have a soil and tempera- ture that are favorable, yet it must " breathe r the salt atmosphere in order to exist and thrive. Ecuador, though having the wide range of temperature before men- tioned, does not have radical changes, and therefore does not sustain all of the vegetation that would appear to have a place somewhere in the wide range of temperature noted. Yet there are few countries, if any, that can sustain a more diversified vegetation than Ecuador. In fruits it produces all that belong to the tropics, usually in great profu- sion and perfection ; and many varieties not considered tropical, as apples, pears, peaches, and strawberries. In no respect have the productive resources of the country been fully developed, and the prac- tices afford a poor instruction for others to follow. A description of the crudities of the practice, and possibilities of the country, may prove of interest in portraying inutilized opportunities, and how not to do it. ORANGES. There are three varieties of oranges grown in Ecuador, viz, thick skin and thin skin, sweet, and sour. The thin-skin variety is in most de- mand for domestic use. None are exported further than Peru and Chili. The trees come into bearing at from three to four years of age, and con- tinue to bear until about twenty years old. The trees are all seedlings ; that is, they coineup and grow naturally. The fruit while ripening is occasionally afflicted with insects, evidently after the sweet juice. Asa rule the trees are not planted, but grow where they by chance come up. If set out in orchards the trees should be placed at least 40 feet apart, as the fruit requires much air and sunlight to mature well. The fruit does not produce well immediately on, the sea-coast, but 5 miles or more in the interior it does well on any kind of soil, though best on a deep, rich loam. 416 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The fruit is uot irrigated, and the land is not cultivated, not even by cutting down the brush and weeds with a machete. No expense for cultivation. Trees well matured average a yield of 4,000 oranges per year, which are sold on the tree at $10, but which bring in the Guayaquil market from $3 to $4 per thousand. The home market is usually well supplied, and more luscious fruit is not elsewhere produced. LEMONS. The lemon family in Ecuador is of three sorts — large sour, limes, and sweet. The trees come into bearing at from two to three years of age> and continue to bear up to about twenty years of age. The trees are all seedlings, and come up by chance. Neither trees nor fruit are troubled with insects. There are no orchards; but if there were, the trees, to produce well and bear good fruit, should be from 40 to 50 feet apart, for the same reason as given regarding oranges. The trees that come up promiscuously are often transplanted into hedges and set near together, more for the purpose of making a fence than realizing from the fruit, which is of market value. The trees are not detrimentally affected by sea breezes, and they ap- pear to thrive anywhere. The trees are not cultivated or irrigated. It is difficult to say what the yield would be under good treatment, but it certainly would be very large. The price of the fruit is too low to make the business of lemon growing profitable in Ecuador. HORATIO N. BEACH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Guayaquil, February 24, 1884. VENEZUELA. REPORT BY CONSUL BIRD, OF LAQUAYBA. ORANGES. — From general information and from considerable personal observation, it may be stated that the Valencia orange is the only va- riety known in Venezuela, the besc of which grow in the vicinity of the city of Valencia, Venezuela, 40 miles in the interior and about 1,825 feet above the level of the sea. They seem to thrive best with moderate ex- posure to the sun on hilly or undulating land, on soil composed of black loam. The average temperature best suited to their growth would ap- pear to be 77° P., with extremes of 85° and 70°. The fruit matures best in a moderate season of rain, but irrigation is never practiced. The cultivation of this fruit is proceeded with after the most primitive fash- ion, being propagated by grafts on seedling stocks and receiving no fertilizing nor pruning whatever. The orchards are of small extent, ORANGES AND LEMOiTS IN VENEZUELA. 41 7 none being raised for exportation. The trees are set 15 feet apart; they sutler little or no injury from insects or fungous growth ; they come into bearing after five years from planting, when they begin to bear average crops and are therea fter quite neglected. When planted near the coast the orange does not do well, but those raised in the interior are of good size and line flavor. LEMONS. — The lemon is not grown in Venezuela. There is a larger sour-sweet fruit raised here that is, in general appearance, much like the lemon. There is also the smaller fruit called the lime, that is raised in great abundance, but never exported. These are the only fruits prop- agated here that bear any resemblance to the lemon of commerce. WINIFELD S. BIRD, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Laguayra, November 15, 1889. MARACAIBO. Oranges and lemons of many varieties grow wild in abundance on our river bottoms but nobody has ever paid any attention to their culti- vation. Figs are also planted, but very few ; they bear in great abun- dance. The same may be said of olives; both figs and olives grow in the hot sandy soil of the coast as well as in the higher parts of the Cor- dilleras. There is no doubt that if those fruits would receive proper attention and were cultivated on a large scale a great export trade could be established. E. H. PLUMACHEK, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Maracaibo, December 14, 1889. PUERTO CABELLO. REPORT BY CONSUL DE BLANO. Relative to the cultivation of oranges, lemons, figs, and olives in this district, I have the honor to report that I have been unable to obtain Information of sufficient value to be transmitted to the Department of State. The olive tree is not known in this district ; as for oranges, lemons, and figs, they are not cultivated in the proper sense of the term ; they grow without any care or attention here and there, and flourish and thrive, or languish and perish, according to circumstances. No lemons, oranges, or figs are exported from this district. CHARLES DE BLANC, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Puerto Cabello, February 20, 1890. 418 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. BRITISH WEST INDIES. BERMUDA. REPORT BY CONSUL BECKW1TH, OF HAMILTON* Varieties. — In Bermuda we have but one variety of sweet orange, which is delicious, large, and juicy. I know of no name for our oranges ; they are yellow, somewhat like the Havana and New Orleans oranges, although not oval shape, being round and flat; some measuring 18 inches in circumference. The Mandarin orange and grape fruit are also grown. Situation. — The trees grow in valleys and are protected by cedar trees and hills. When exposed to the high winds they do not flourish. They are sometimes grown near little bays, and but a few feet from the sea, and very little above sea-level. The trees thrive by exposure to the sun. The valleys are the best where the soil is the deepest, and of a deep-red color. Soil. — The soil is from 3 to 4 feet in depth, and subsoil is a deep- red clay in these valleys, in some places of the depth of 12 feet, but on the sides of hills not deeper than 6 to 12 inches, and mostly a loamy soil. Climate — We can grow here all that grows in a tropical climate. In the summer the average temperature is about 80°, in winter from 65° to 70°. Night and day varies very little. Our changes are seldom more than from 3° to 4°. The sultry days are in August and Septem- ber. The moist atmosphere occurs after heavy rains, the ground being porous, and the heat of the sun will then produce a heavy atmosphere; ordinarily clear, bright, and beautiful weather. Trees of all kinds are becoming fewer on the islands, in consequence of which we do not have as much rain as formerly, but when we have frequent rains it adds much to the growth of the fruit and trees. The seed is planted in boxes ; they are also budded on the Seville orange and lemon when the bark can be freely removed from the wood. Cultivation. — Most of the trees are little cultivated; some are planted in the grounds with the crops, and the only fertilizers are what are used for other crops — sea- weed, stable manure, etc. I find the best fertilizer to be chamber-lye, about 1 gallon to 300 gallons of water, thrown around the roots two or three times a mouth. Care must be used in not mak- ing it too strong, as the albumen forms around the roots and prevents the water penetrating, and in time all the leaves drop, and if the roots are not attended to the tree dies ; the remedy is to remove all the soil and use lots of water. * I have obtained the information herewith given, largely, through Mr. J. B. Heyl, who is one of the oldest and most successful fruit growers here. — H. W. B. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN BERMUDA. 419 Pruning. — Only the dried branches are cut off fruit-bearing trees, trim while young to a proper shape — then let alone. The height from the ground iu some cases is 30 feet, but a good height here is from 20 to 25 feet. They have always to be protected from the wind. Picking. — The picking is done in December and at any hour of the day. They are picked when fully yellow — if the negroes do not steal them before. Curing. — In a dry room for two or three days, spread on the floor, numbers too small to ship, home consumption take all. Planting. — The trees are planted about 20 feet apart, and propagated by transplanting from boxes — budded and grafted. We have good oranges from seedlings, but know what we are getting when we bud. You can never count on a seedling. The orchards are decidedly small. Maturity. — A budded tree bears in three or four years ; a grafted tree in about five years; seedlings seven or eight years, sometimes ten. When the largest crops are produced is owing mostly to favorable seasons. There are trees on the islands over fifty years old still bearing. Insect pest. — Sometime in the fifties (58 or 59) I think, a vessel was brought inhere in distress, with a cargo of oranges; one gentleman who had some fifty or sixty very fine trees bought a few boxes of these oranges to plant the seed. In a few months his flourishing trees were covered with an insect which gave the trees the appearance of being whitewashed. This insect fed on the bark of the tree and extracted the yellow sap from the bark, curling the latter up. Every device thought of was tried, but the Island was cleaned of nearly every tree, lemon, oranges, limes, all shared the same fate. I lost mine as well, with the exception of two lime trees and a few lemons in another part of my grounds which led me to look to the cause of their being healthy. Between the two lime trees grew a pawpaw tree, and on looking at the lemon trees I found three or four pawpaw trees. I then visited all the trees I heard of that were living, and wherever I found a live tree the pawpaw tree was near it. I also found glycerine a first-rate remedy, half glycerine and half water with a little carbolic acid, applied with a paint brush all over the trunk seemed to keep the atmosphere from the insect, which soon dies (or the carbolic acid may kill it), and the first rain washes off the glycerine, which does not. destroy the trees as would oil. I have now some healthy trees grown from seed, with fruit on and last year we had a fair crop ; another thing to look after is that your trees do not go too much to wood ; the woody roots should be cut off 5 or 6 feet around the tree ; they are the roots running from the tree which make the branches, and the fine roots that are close to the tree are the fruit roots and the ones to be nourished. HENRY W. BEOKWITH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Hamilton, November 28, 1889. 420 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. DOMINICA. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT STEDMAN The oranges exported from this island are of the common sweet variety. The trees are not cultivated, but grow promiscuously through- out the island, at altitudes varying from 50 to 1,600 feet, and are most plentiful on the leeward side. The fruit begins to ripen early in Septem- ber, and the crop continues until the end of November— small quantities can be had in December and January. The Seville sweet orange (which is used principally in making mar- malade) ; the Tangarine and Portugal oranges are also grown to a small extent, but have not been exported. There are a few lemon trees in the island, mostly of a poor descrip- tion, but the lime tree is cultivated to a considerable extent and in- creasing annually. A small quantity of the fresh fruit is exported, but the great bulk of the crop is compressed and the juice exported in a raw and concentrated form, the latter principally to the United States The trees are grown at various heights, in some places as high as 1,500 feet. The trees are planted at distances of from 14 to 18 feet apart, according to the richness of the soil, and are propagated from seed. The picking begins in July and extends to November, the height of crop being in September. The juice is extracted by passing the. fruit through a mill and afterwards concentrating in copper taches. WM. STEDMAN, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Roseau, Dominica, March 4, 1890. JAMAICA. REPORT BY CONSUL HOSKINSON, OF KINGSTON. (Republished from Consular Reports No. 41^.) In reference to the fruit circular, I forwarded by last mail a press copy of Dr. Neesh's lecture on orange cultivation. The lecture has since been published in one of the city newspapers, and combines a scientific treatment of the subject with a long practical experience of the writer. Oranges have never been regularly planted out in this island as they are in Florida, all the orange trees having been self- sown, mainly by the seeds being carried by birds into the brush, and when the plant has grown up the thickets have been cleared away, leaving the young orange trees standing in irregular groups. No pains is ever taken to improve the variety, and no particular attention of any is given to tfce trees, the cleared land being the main considers ORANGES IN JAMAICA. 421 tioii for cattle grazing. The doctor says of the introduction of the orange : When the English landed in this island they found here the sweet and bitter orange and the lime. The citron and shaddock are of more recent introduction ; and at the present time nearly all the useful kinds of the orange family are either widely disseminated or to be found as growing specimens in our botanical gardens. The JEgle marmelos, or Bael fruit, is yet scarce; the Japanese orange, or kumquat, is almost unknown, and some kinds of lemon, notably the bergamot and lime, are still wanting. After speaking at length of the conspicuous and distinctive charac- teristics of the orange tree as evidence in the leaf, the flowers, the seeds, and the rind, he says : The sweet oranges grown in Jamaica have been, up to quite recent years, of no par- ticular or named variety. They have been grown from seed ; and it speaks much for the perfect suitability of the soil and climate in most parts of the island that such excellent fruit should have been produced under a plan which embodies none of the teachings of horticultural art, under a plan, in short, which is one of neglect or lucky chance, left to take the place of intelligent guidance. The earliest cultivators of oranges in this island were the enslaved negroes, and the oldest trees yielding the largest crops are only to be found on those parts of estates which were set apart for the cottages and gardens of the slaves. I know of a small sugar estate on which, forty years after emancipation, the fruits of the orange trees planted by the old negroes around their dwellings, were sold to a contractor, without any expense of labor, for £40. This was almost at the commencement of our fruit trade, and the crop (more carefully handled now than then) is worth more than double the money. Our common variety, then, is a mixture of seedlings, some of the fruit being really excellent, of large size, of good flavor, and of qualities which achieve for it a popu- larity in the American market. Naturally, when the cultivators trust only to seed- ling trees for their crops, the best fruit will be produced in the most highly-favored localities. The orange tree requires a deep, rich soil, a warm climate, with plenty of sun to ripen and sweeten the fruit, and plenty of moisture to keep up its growth. These conditions of soil and climate obtain in the parish of Manchester, which is famous for its oranges, also in the cooler parts of Clarendon and St. Catherine and in St. Ann's, from all of which parts the best oranges are exported. % Of the methods for propagating desired varieties he says : We owe the large number of varieties to the tendency which the orange has to *' sport," as gardeners term the tendency of seedlings to prove different from the parent plant. Whilst this tendency is of some advantage as affording the chance of improvement, it is a disadvantage, in that it prevents the propagation of the tree by means of seed, for when seeds are sown the resulting tree is much more likely to be inferior to than it is to equal or surpass its parent. Hence the necessity for special means of propagation, as by cuttings, layering, budding, and grafting. The orange tree is not usually propagated by cuttings, but it can be done ; nor by layers, and yet, as a matter of fact, a modification of the method of layering, known as layering by elevation, is practiced in the case of the orange. Almost everybody is familiar with the process of laying down the shoot of a grape-vine. The branch of the vine is simply laid in a shallow trench ; it is pegged down in its place, or a stone is placed upon it to keep it down. The trench is then filled up with earth, which should be kept moist, when in about three mouths a copious supply of roots has been thrown out by the branch in the trench, and the shoot may be cut off from the parent vine and be planted in an independent position. Now, in the case of a high-growing tree Jifce the orange, we can not bring the branch down to the ground, but we can carry 422 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. up the soil to the branch. It is done in this way : A flower-pot, or box is made with a slit in its side, so as to receive a growing branch, which is first of all prepared by wounding or wringing the bark, so as to cause it the more readily to throw out roots. The flower- pots or boxes are then filled with soil and secured in their places by cords or props. The earth in the pots is kept moist by frequent waterings ; and the result is that in a short time roots are thrown out, after which the branch may be sawn off below the flower-pot, and it is ready to be planted out. This plan is now greatly re- sorted to by the Portuguese in the Azores ; and I should like to read the following short extract from the account of their method by a visitor to the orange groves of the island of St. Michael. He says : " The trees are increased in a curious way. The mode of propagation was derived from the Chinese, and has been much in use of late years. A branch of the diameter of 4 or 5 inches is chosen, around which a circular incision is cut. Around this straw matting is wound in the shape of a funnel, and filled with beaten earth from the mid- dle of May to the middle of June. Roots soon begin to push, and by the following winter it is provided with sufficient to support it when detached from the parent stem. The young plant thus obtained often bears fruit at the end of two or three years." This mode of propagation has simplicity for its recommendation. By its means the possessor of any good kind of orange tree could soon establish a considerable number of the same kind, and without the exercise of any special skill. But it is a slow pro- cess of multiplication compared with budding and grafting, which in fact are the modes adopted by nurserymen. For these modes stocks are necessary. Stocks may be raised from seeds, or fall-grown bitter orange trees, or sweet-orange trees of inferior kinds may be cut down to stumps and a bud or graft inserted. For the theory on which budding and grafting depends I must refer you to horticultural works, and also for the details. Let it suffice here to state that the process is by no means difficult, and may be acquired by any persevering grower simply by attending to the direc- tions. ***»**!» To return to the orange tree and the question of pruning. The orange tree differs from coffee trees and most fruit trees in that very little skill or labor in pruning is required. As already stated, the fruit is formed on young shoots of the current year's growth, and consequently pruning this tree can not exert the same influence as in pruning coffee, which requires ripened wood for the bearing shoot. Fertility in the orange is promoted by manuring, and pruning may be simply restricted to cutting out dead wood and misdirected branches, or to giving a desirable shape to young trees. To stimulate a bearing tree to its utmost productiveness, the following plan may be followed : Let a cord be passed loosely round the trunk of the tree, and with the distance of the uttermost branches from the stem for a radius, let a circle be marked on the ground round the entire circumference of the tree. A deep trench, fully a foot wide, should be dug along this line and be filled up with a mixture of bone-dust and well-rotted manure ; finally, let the trench be covered by the loosened soil. The effect of this treatment will be to stimulate a growth of young rootlets, which will feed upon the enriched soil of the trench ; the result of this •vtill be that a strong growth of young shoots will everywhere take place amongst the branches; and, as a final consequence, the tree will be full of flower and fruit. When the sea- son's growth has taken place, it will be found that the tree has gained in size to the outer dimensions of the trench. Of the preparation for market be says : Within the past few years great improvements have taken place in the modes of collecting and packing the fruit. At first, in the early history of our fruit trade, the oranges were rudely knocked down from the trees by means of long sticks, with no more care than a pe,n -keeper's cattle-man would take in knocking down a lot of bitter oranges as a fee-el for the jiigs. They were carried loose in carts to the port, and at tha ORANGES IN JAMAICA. 423 port the oranges were shipped in bulk. With all this bruising and want of care it is not surprising that cargoes on arrival at New York were found to be in such adamaged state as to be next to worthless in value. These early shipments indeed seem to have been good for no other effect than to teach the American consignees two things, one of which was the excellence of a Jamaica orange when it happened to reach New York in good condition, the other was the lamentable ignorance of our people of all that pertained to collecting and packing the fruit. American contractors next appeared upon the scene. These agents had been sent out to make purchases of growing crops, and to teach and superintend improved methods of packing. They brought with them hundreds of pairs of small, stout pruniug-shears, of no great monetary value, which they gave away to the laborers, whom they taught &> cut off the orange fruits by the stem and to deposit them carefully in a basket. They also taught that the oranges should be carefully laid on shelves and floors for one or two days, then to examine them for signs of decay, and to wrap up in paper and pack in barrels only those which were sound. These teachings, wherever they were intelligently followed, had a good effect. The extra value of Manchester " stem-cut" oranges in the New York market soon proved that care meant money, while carelessness signified loss. Our Creole middlemen and contractors soon became more exacting as to the careful handling of the oranges they bought from the peasant proprietors, and the upward tendency of local prices has steadily gone on as a consequence. Seven or eight years ago the wholesale price of oranges in the interior towns was sixpence per 100, and their value in New York was a thing not to be foretold from the prices-current, for very often the shipment of such fruit entailed a heavy loss. Nowadays the price of a barrel of wrapped oranges is $3, and the price obtained in New York fluctuates between $5 and $7. Under the improved modes of packing the trade has steadily gone on increasing, until it is now an established and most important industry, representing, according to the latest returns, an export value of £37,567, obtained for 34,000,000 of oranges. And of the several competitors in the fruit market he says : For the possession of our actual and possible future markets we have certain com- petitors. The principal of these is Florida ; next comes Cuba, which ships oranges principally from the port of Havana. The island of Porto Rico is rather a formidable competitor. Mayaguez is the principal port of shipment, and the fruit is so fine that it fetches good pricesjn the American market. Of Jamaica oranges 400 are taken as the average number contained in a barrel, but of the oranges shipped from Porto Rico a barrel contains on the average 350 ; in other words, seven of such oranges are equal to eight of those sent from Jamaica. They are also said to keep well. The extra size denotes careful cultivation, and the better keeping qualities tell of care in picking and packing. The Bahama Islands usually send oranges to the American markets, but this year the growers have been unfortunate, as the crop is reported to have been entirely destroyed by a succession of heavy gales. The other West India Islands must also be regarded as possible competitors, though up to the present they are not actively com- peting. British Honduras is also a competitor, both in bananas and oranges, and the opening up of a direct line of railway between Mexico and the American frontier, which has just no w occurred, also suggests Mexico as a competitor, if not with Jamaica, at least with Florida. California is even a competitor, but the effect of her com- petition is simply to supply the markets on the Pacific coast, and even there Califor- nia has to struggle against the shipment of oranges from Tahiti and other islands in the Pacific. At present the countries bordering the coasts of the Mediterranean are competitors more for the supply of lemons to the United States than of oranges. The Azores have their principal orange trade with England, and only a limited trade with the United States. In the Azores they have great diflficul ties of climate to con- tend against. Westerly gales, sweeping over the wide expanse of the Atlantic, are BO violent as to be very destructive to the orange crop. To overcome the disadvan- tage, expensive structures of high-walled iuclosures of small area have to be resorted to in order to provide shelter. It need hardly be remarked that all such difficult^ ^nd expense are snared in Jamaica.; 424 FKUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Let me add, in conclusion, that Jamaica is admirably adapted for orange cultivation. The soil, the climate, the rapidly increasing steam facilities for transportation, and the cheapness of laud seem to me to combine to make of this island an especially desirable field. As I have said, the fruit actually grows wild, and without other cultivation than keeping down the bush. If the same intelligent care and attention were given to the growth of the tree and to the proper packing of the fruit for market that obtains with us in the United States, it would prove a most profitable and pleasant occupation to all engaged in it. But the cultivation is regarded as secondary to the use of the land for cattle or sheep pasturage, and the care and handling of the fruit is still, as a rule, of the roughest and most careless description. Nearly 50 percent, of the fruit, on an average, is either spoiled or seriously damaged before it reaches a market, and the greater portion of this great loss is due to rough and careless handling. GEO. E. HOSKINSON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Kingston, Jamaica, March 27, 1884. JAMAICA. REPORT BY CONSUL HOSKINSON. (Repnblished from Consular Reports No. 41£.) In further continuation of the subject treated of in my dispatch of the 27th of March, I have now the honor to forward, in a connected form, the notes of an experienced observer and cultivator of the orange tree. GEO. S. HOSKINSON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Kingston, Jamaica, April 14, 1884. [Inclosure.— Consul Hoskinson's report.] Varieties. — Of oranges, the varieties principally grown are native seedlings, some of which were prior to the emancipation planted by the slaves near their dwellings and attended to by simple methods of cultivation. Many of the trees now furnishing fruit for export are the reman ts of those planted by the slaves, such as the irregular groves now to be found on sugarestates and coffee plantations. Some of the trees are native seedlings -spontaneously springing up in pastures and guinea-grass pieces. Since emancipation the colored people have planted orange trees in their small free- holds in the mountains. This has been done to a large extent in the parish of Man- chester, where sweet oranges of good quality have been long grown, and where the soil and climate conduce to excellence in the quality of the fruit. Besides the na- tive seedlings superior kinds of sweet oranges (of unnamed varieties) have been is- ORANGES IN JAMAICA. 425 sued from the Botanic Gardens, also Tangerine oranges of a very fine quality. The trees issued from the gardens are bu'dded and grafted. The Tangerines are mostly grafted. It is difficult to say which are the more valuable. The Tangerine oranges fetch the highest price in the local markets, but they are not exported. Of the na- tive seedlings those produced in Manchester are admitted to be the best in the island on account of size, sweetness, flavor, and for their good keeping qualities. It has also been maintained that they bear handling, packing, and the sea voyage to New York better than varieties grown elsewhere ; for example, better than those grown on the north side of the island. Seedling trees begin to bear at eight, nine, and ten years, and are in full bearing at fifteen or twenty years. Grafted or budded trees come into bearing a little earlier from the time of planting out. Nothing definite can be stated as to how long the trees remain fruitful further than it must be a long time, as trees dating from the era of slavery and estimated to be fifty or sixty years and perhaps older are still in full vigor, and the writer has seen such trees without observing about them any signs of decay from old age. The longevity of the orange tree is well known, but in this island it is difficult to ascertain the age of old orange trees, owing to the fact that their planting was the work of slaves in their own time and not plantation work. Records of old plantation work still exist, but not of the planting of orange trees. The foreign market for Jamaica-grown oranges has only been opened up within ten or twelve years past, and it is only in recent years that methodical planting has been resorted to. Of lemons, the known varieties are only two, viz, an old-established seedling variety, producing very large fruit, and seedlings obtained about five years ago by the im- portation of Sicilian lemons from New York, with the object of obtaining their seed for planting purposes. The fruit obtained from the trees of the last-named variety are of larger size than the fruits from which their seeds were obtained. The trees re- ferred to have borne good crops this season, the lemon, as is well known, coming earlier into bearing than the orange. There is as yet only a limited production of lemons, and the trade is principally in the hands of two growers, who send their pro- duce to New York. For local use, in the preparation principally of lemonade, and in cookery and domestic uses the lime takes the place of the lemon. The lime grows spontaneously in most parts of the island. It is of the easiest possible culture. The trees of all these varieties of citrus, orange, lemon, and lime are principally seedlings. It is only latterly, that is, since the development of the export trade, that budding and grafting have been resorted to. Insect pests. — In Jamaica the orange trees have few insect pests, and there are no complaints of attacks of fungus. It is only where orange trees are attempted to be grown in hot and dry localities, as, for example, in gardens in the city of Kingston, and the rather arid plain of the Liguanea, in the parish of St. Andrews, that they suffer from coccus and ants. In such localities lemons and limes suffer less than orange trees ; but in the locality referred to the climate is admitted to be too hot and dry for the orange tribe. On the plains of St. Catherine, in the vicinity of Spanish Town, recent attempts at planting orange trees have been made. This plain is an ex- tension of the Liguanea, but the climate is moist and the lands are capable of irriga- tion by the Rio Cobre Irrigation Works. These plantations were recently inspected by a Government officer, one of the superintendents of the Botanic Gardens, and in his report he speaks favorably of the appearance of the young trees, without men- tioning the ravages of any pest. However, it is known that the coccus has attacked orange trees in another locality in the same parish, but the attacks have been sub- dued by smearing the trees with a composite lime wash made by boiling together lime, sulphur, and tobacco stems in water. Further in the interior and at a greater elevation the coccus is almost entirely unknown. It has not hitherto been a subject of complaint amongst growers. Planting. — Most of the trees in pastures and on sugar estates and coffee plantations etand very far apart ; indeed, they may be said to be isolated trees. In close planta- 426 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. tions the distances are between 20 and 30 feet apart. In the small grounds of the peasantry the trees may be observed so closely planted as to be in contact. Wide planting, however, is preferred by intelligent growers as tending to the best results. Tangerine oranges are planted at 22 feet apart, and larger sweet oranges at 25 to 30 feet apart ; lemons, 18 to 22 feet. Situation. — Plantations of orange trees are made principally at elevations above 1,000 feet. In Manchester the elevations will average 2,000 feet. Undulating valleys are principally selected on account of the greater depth of the soil to be found on such spots, also on account of its greater richness. The soil principally selected is that of the white limestone formation of Jamaica geology, known as " honeycomb rock." The resulting soil is a strong red earth, calcareous and ochery, owing to the presence of red oxide of iron. Orange trees yield the best results on the limestone soils, both on account of constituents promoting fertility and on account of the per- fect natural drainage of such soils. The sea-shore is avoided. The powerful sea-breezes (trade winds) are hurtful to the blossoms and tender branches. At an elevation of 500 feet the sea-breeze ceases to be troublesome. The sea-shore is also too arid, and as a rule the soil of the coast line is sterile and unsuitable. Irrigation.— Artificial irrigation is only practiced to a limited extent in the plain of St. Catherine, and its application to orange trees must at present be regarded as experimental merely. The principal crop cultivated between orange trees is guinea grass, but some of the best growers prefer to keep up a clean cultivation, the number of such cultivations and cleanings being determined by the growth of weeds. To keep up a clean cultivation in certain low and moist districts would require a clean- ing every three weeks; but longer intervals, as of eight or ten weeks, could be taken in drier portions of the year. The general practice, however, is to allow the grass to grow and to keep weeds and shrubby undergrowth cut down by means of a cut- lass or bush-knife, which is done three or four times a year. In the grounds of the peasantry the whole list of cultivated crops in the tropics might be enumerated as crops cultivated between orange trees. It may suffice, however, to mention yams (Dioscorea alata, Dioscorea trifida, etc.), cocoes (Colocasia esculente) , bananas and plan- tains (Musa sapientum and Musa paradisiaca), coffee shrubs (Caffea arabica), papaws (Carica papaya), annatto (Bixa orellana), and small culinary vegetables. The " yard" or " provision ground" of the peasant is generally a perfect medley of vegetable growth, including besides orange trees almost everything else. In such places the cultivation of the orange tree is associated with the stirring and cleaning of the ground necessary for the smaller crop. Yield. — Owing to imperfect data it is difficult to give particulars as to yield, pro- ceeds, and cost of cultivation. Undoubtedly the yield could be increased by more careful cultivation and judicious manuring. The yield in a tropical climate may be described as more continuous than in a warm temperate or subtropical region. Orange- trees are observed to be in flower and in fruit at the same time. The tendency to continuous flowering is so strong that every copious shower may be said to be fol- lowed by a growth of young shoots with their flowers. This tendency greatly pro- longs the season of fruit. It is scarcely an exaggeration to say that sweet Granges may be obtained all the year round, but the principal season of fruit is from Septem- ber to April. This tendency is even stronger in the case of the lime, which is to be had in plenty for ten or eleven months of the year. As to proceeds, it is only when the orange crop is sold in bulk to a contractor that the figures become known. This is the general practice on sugar estates wherever oranges may be growing. The cost of cultivation has a wide range, from nothing at all where it is neglected, as is too often the case, to the heavy expense of maintaining a clean cultivation. In the orange districts nearest Kingston the prices obtained by the peasant proprietors (who sell small lots weekly to carters and dealers) on the spot range from M. to Is. per 100 hand-picked and with a small portion of the stem remaining. The buyer conveys them to Kingston, wraps them in paper, and packs, them in barrels for transit by ORANGES IN JAMAICA. 427 sh-.-iiiHT t<» \i-\v York, Philadelphia, and Baltimore. At this rate the yield ("mm sin^lr 1 ivrs has IHMMI ;\si iuiaird to range from lOa. to ^0«., and oven more according to the agi» mid si/.' of the tree. Growers who pack their own oranges usually obtain l'2g. a luuTfl in Kingston. Latterly, the tendency of prices has been upwards. Man- chester " stem cut " oranges, carefully wrapped and packed, are worth 16*. ($4) a barrel in the local export market. In New York they are worth from $5 to $8 per barrel according to fluctuations in the market. A barrel contains from 350 to 400 oranges. Thus it will be seen that the profits of the large grower greatly exceed those of the peasant. GENERAL REMARKS. The spontaneous character of orange cultivation in Jamaica is a noticeable feature. It is only during recent years that a new character is being given to the culture by systematic plantingand increased attention. The official count of oranges exported in theyear ending September 30, 1383, is 34,000,000. Almost all these were wild oranges or spontaneously grown fruits. The climate of Jamaica, in the elevated portions of the interior, is believed to be exceedingly well adapted to the cultivation of the orange, and the soil also. The excellent seedlings spontaneously grown may be ad- duced in support of this belief. When cultivation is bestowed the first effect is to in- crease the size of the fruit. Manuring is much neglected, but when manures are ap- plied the increased yield and the more rapid growth of the tree are very noticeable. The tree is a gross feeder, and requires lime, potash, and phosphatic and ammoniacal manures. Cow manure is the compost applied in Jamaica. The orange industry is limited to the export of the fruit to the United States and Canada. No commercial attempts have been made to extract the essential oils for perfumery. The length of the season of fruiting in this island is also noteworthy. Those who are experimenting with irrigation entertain the idea that the season may be con- trolled so as to produce fruit at any desired time of the year by its aid. But this may prove a doubtful advantage, as summer-grown oranges would enter into compe- tition with northern fruits in their own markets. For the same season a summer crop of bananas is not so valuable as the crop produced during the absence of northern fruit. The natural close of the orange season in Jamaica is marked by the fruiting of the Star apple, and then all classes prepare for themselves the tropical dainty which the Creoles style " matrimony." This is & mixture of fresh orange juice with the pulp of the Star apple, co which various flavors are added according to taste. But the simple admixture is a delicious compound and is universally relished. TRINIDAD. REPORT BY CONSUL SAWYER. Orange and lemon trees are attended with good soil and climate in this colony ; but they are mostly in a semi-cultivated condition, as, hith- erto, planters have given their attention to the more important indus- tries. The fruit, however, is of good size and quality, a considerable number being shipped to ^ew York by direct line of steamers. Figs and olives are useless in this colony, the former being destroyed by frngivorous bats, and the latter do not bear. MOSES H. SAWYER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Tr iniest, application is to put goat manure into irrigating water. Pruning. — Varies; low trees preferred; less injury to fruit when it falls; in fall dry wood is pruned. Picking. — Cheap kinds are allowed to fall for home consumption. The fruit is picked, for a near market, fully ripe; fora distance, while green. Packing. — Wrapped in paper and put in wooden boxes. Planting and propagating. — Branches touch and interlock; from 20 to 30 feet; some are propagated, some are seedlings, but the best varieties are budded. Maturity. — Differs according to land ; five to eight years they bear well. Disease. — Only a small scale like a freckle on fruit, which dries the tree. Shipping, packing, and canning goes on during all seasons of the year. Every week, wrapped in paper and boxed. SIDON. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT ARELA. (Repnblished from Consular Report No. 41|.) Varieties. — Oranges are distinguished by their shape and contour. Belady, round, flat ends, very thick peel, hardy; ripens late. Shainouty, long like an egg, thin-skinned; ripens early. Bisry, finest flavor; a 44G FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. seedling. All these, except the la&t, are grafted upon the wild or bitter orange, and in two or three years after grafting begin to bear fruit. No limit is recognized to the period of fruit-bearing, but the trees attain a very old age without deteriorating. Only one variety grows directly from the seed ; the others are all grafted, which is considered a better method than budding. Soil. — The order of the soils best adapted to orange culture is as fol- lows : the best being light red earth, then dark loam, then sandy, and finally clayey. Pests. — Until the past year nothing had troubled the trees except the attacks of moles on the roots of the trees. But now a fungus has ap- peared, which is spreading rapidly, and seems likely to do great damage. No remedy for it has been discovered as yet. Position. — All the oranges and lemons of Syria are grown very near the sea-coast, whether at Tripoli, Sidon, or Jaffa; and I know of no ex- tensive successful cultivation more than 4 miles from the sea, and some of the orchards are within 20 rods of salt water. When the trees are set out they are placed 18 feet apart every way when the soil is good, 16 feet when the soil is only average ; trees placed behind a shelter, as another line of trees, prosper better than those exposed to severe wind. Irrigation. — As there is no rain from May 1 till October 1, irrigation is the only means of keeping the trees, alive. Each tree is surrounded by a little bank of earth to keep the water about the tree. The trees are left without irrigation till the last of June, till the leaves curl a lit- tle, then they are watered three times for periods of seven days, and after this every fifteen days. The irrigation of the river coming from Mount Lebanon is better than that from the wells, as the last has a taste of brackishness. Yield. — In good orchards it is estimated that the average yield is from 1,500 oranges to 2,000 per tree, and in poor orchards about 600 per tree. The yield is annnal, but every other year the crop is lighter. SHIBLY ABELA, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Sidon, February 21, 1884. TARSUS. REPORT BY ACTING CONSULAR AGENT AVANIA. (Republished from Consular Report No. 41|.) There are four kinds of trees more or less productive : The sour lemons, the sweet lemons, the sour oranges, and the sweet oranges. The most yielding of these trees are the sweet lemons, but the most valuable are the sour lemon and the sweet orange fruits, the usual value of which ORANGES AND LEMONS IN SYRIA. 447 is from 1 to 3 cents each. These trees come generally to their full beat- ing after the fifth year of their plantation, which is first effected in seeds and replanted the next year at a distance of from 13 to 10 feet between each plant. By grafting, these four kinds of trees can be transformed into one, which succeeds perfectly well. Sour lemons and sweet oranges are most sensitive to a cold temperature, especially the former, which are sometimes completely ruined by cold. Thus the duration of these trees depends on temperature, and might be prolonged to thirty or forty years. In this country such trees are never troubled with any injurious insect, etc. ; severe temperature is the only thing that injures them. The orange and lemon groves are generally situated in the interior or on the coast, but always iu the vicinity of towns in order to be sheltered from cold. The plain lands are rather suitable for the plantation and conservation of these trees ; but the best results are obtained on the coast, where the soil is more or less sandy and light. Even at a distance of a quarter of a mile from the sea these trees prosper quite well. The system of irrigation used in this country is the running water. In those places where such water is lacking wells are dug, the water of which is used for watering the gardens by means of wheels mounted with buckets. In the places where the soil of the groves is cultivated watering is necessary in summer and autumn when rains are late, and this is done repeatedly. It is commonly calculated that the average yield of these trees is worth from $2.50 to $3 each. In this country no exportation of oranges or lemons is made; on the contrary, large importation is effected annually from the coast of Syria for the local consumption. ELIE AVANIA, • Acting Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Tarsus and Mersine, March 3, 1884. TRIPOLI AND VICINITY. REPORT BY CONSUL BISSINGER. Varieties. — The best varieties are, citron, mandarines, the " belady," (indigenous) and Jaffa oranges, after which come the sour and* sweet lemons. Situation. — From the sea to 10 miles inland, with slight elevations. The trees should be exposed to the sun. Low, level land is best. The best soil is red or black, but sandy. Climate. — The degree of heat is moderate; from 40° to 90° Fahr. Cold nights destroy the blossoms. In warm days and nights the trees have to be watered ; moist and ordinary atmosphere is beneficial. The rain-fall is 36 inches on an average per year. Abundance of rain is advantageous ; frost injures the trees. 448 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Irrigation. — When the soil is dry, during the months of June, July, August, and September, and sometimes October. More or less according to dryuess of soil and size of trees — once every eight or ten days. Cultivation. — In the spring, when the soil gets dry, the ground should be plowed to the depth of 5 or 6 inches ; this should be repeated three or four times, i. e., once every eight or ten days j in summer every eight or ten days after each irrigation. This alternate succession of plowing and irrigation should occur between the 15th of June and 15th of Sep- tember. Irrigation. — Goat manure is the best, cow dnng ranks second, after which, in point of quality, comes horse manure. Half of the quantity is to be used in winter and the other half in summer. The quantity needed is about 84 pounds for each large tree. The first 42 pounds that are to be used in winter should be placed on the surface of the soil, at a distance of about 10 to 12 inches from the foot of the tree, and the other 42 pounds distributed in two or three equal parts, after being mixed with water during the summer. Small trees need only half of this quantity. Pruning. — Pruning should be confined to the lower branches, but yet sufficiently upward to leave a free passage for a team of oxen when till- ing the ground. Picking. — Citrons, sweet and sour lemons, as well as oranges, must be picked when green, with a yellowish tint, if intended for exportation ; if for local consumption, when fully yellow. These fruits fall to the ground as soon as they are perfectly ripe, and should be gathered when dry from dew or moisture. It is of great importance to roll these fruits in thin paper before packing them up in boxes. Planting and propagating. — The tr£es are planted from 3 yards 9 inches to 4 yards 12 inches. Citrons are propagated by seedlings ; sweet and sour lemons and oranges by grafting. Oranges prosper well when grafted on sweet lemon trees. Sweet lemons can be grafted on sour lemon trees. The best varieties are budded. Orchards are gener- ally small. Maturity. — Trees begin to bear fruit in the fourth or fifth year after being planted. The largest crops are from the seventh year upward. Insect pests. — ISTo insects infest this kind of a tree except a scale pest, for vrhich there is no known remedy ; but the damage caused by it is slight. ERHARD BISSINGER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Beirut, February 12, 1890. ORANGES IN INDIA. 449 ADEN. I bave the honor to acknowledge receipt of circular dated 28th Sep- tember, relative to the cultivation of oranges, lemons, figs, and olives in my district, and in reply I regret to state that owing to the barrenness of Arabian soil, the cultivation of the above-mentioned fruits to any extent would be impossible. D WIGHT MOORE, Consul. CONSULATE OF UNITED STATES, November 29, 1889. INDIA. REJ'ORT, PREPARED FOR VICE CONSUL BODE, OF BOMBAY, BY MR. G.MARSHALL WOCDROW, LECTURER IN BOTANY AND AGRICULTURE IN THE COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, POOXU. ORANGES. Varieties. — The best orange grown in India is the Cintra, a name com- monly assumed to be derived from the Portuguese town, but lately de- clared to be a corruption of a Sanscrit word which should be pronounced Suntura. The tree is of upright habit, rarely exceeding 12 feet in height and 8 feet in expansion of branches. The leaves measure 1 J by f to 2J by 1 J inches. The winged joint in the stalk is very slightly developed. The flowers are three- fourths inch in diameter, have five petals, twenty to twenty-four stamens and niue> to ten carpels. The fruit is found in two varieties — one having the skin very loose and the other having a smooth, tight-fitting skin, as grown at Nagpur. This fruit has been declared by people who have traveled much, to be the finest orange in the world. The flavor of the two varieties is equal when grown under .similar conditions, but the loose-skinned variety has an imposing appear- ance and is rather more easily peeled, consequently it is the market favorite. The inner skin (endocarp), of both varieties is very delicate and the liths (carpels) cohere so slightly that it is easy to break up for eating. Ordinary market specimens weigh 7 ounces, but examples weighing 10 ounces are common. Well-grown specimens have only two or three seeds, which have several embryos. The Mozambique orange. — The tree that bears this orange is of a strong growing habit and forms an irregularly globular head. Its leaves measure from 2J by 1J to 5 £ by 3£ inches, entire, or very slightly and irregularly toothed and the apex pointed or cut out. The leaf stalk is three-fourths inch, the wings on one of the joints attaining one-fourth inch in width — often less, and sometimes wanting. The flowers are 1£ inches in diameter; have five slightly oblique petals which are glandu- lar on the outside, and twenty to twenty-four stamens. Average speci- 450 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES mens of the fruit grown in India weigh 8 ounces, but specimens im- ported from Mozambique 13 ounces in weight are common. In shape it is globular, slightly compressed vertically. The skin is medium in thickness, tight fitting, marked by numerous small vertical furrows and a circular smooth mark about 1 inch in diameter on the upper end. The pulp is if sually pale yellow, but when dead ripe becomes of the brownish yellow that may be called the medium tint of orange pulp. In flavor it is sweet, but without the piquancy of the best varieties. The inner skin is tough, so that the orange must be cut up with a knife and is only fit to be sucked. Seeds about twenty, with several embryos in each. Two sorts are known, Khaguzee, thin skinned, and Goradiya, thick skinned. Both sorts keep in good condition about two months, although ripe when gathered. The imported fruit must keep in good condition longer, as it is brought from Mozambique by sailing craft. Ladoo orange of the Deccan. — The tree that bears this variety produces long, straight branches, apt to spread out considerably as the tree at- tains size, therefore needing to be planted 18 feet apart. The leaves are from 1£ by f to 2J by 1J with the winged joint of the stalk very slightly developed. The open flowers are three-fourths of an inch in di- ameter, have five petals, twenty to twenty-four stamens, and nine to ten carpels. The fruit attains 8 ounces in weight, is in shape a much de- pressed globe with a distinct nipple at the stalk, and, within the skin on the upper end, generally has an extra orange about three-fourths of an inch in diameter with five to seven liths (carpels). The skin is of a dusky yellow color, moderately rough and loose, and of medium thick- ness, the inner skin very thin and inclosing juicy sweet pulp of piquant flavor and medium tint of color. This is a fine orange for eating, but it does not bring a high price on account of its indifferent appearance. Lull Ladoo of the Deccan. — This fruit I have identified with the man- darin orange of books. The tree resembles the Ladoo in habit, leaves, flowers, and shape of fruit, but the skin of the fruit is of a deep orange color, smooth and loose, and inclosing eleven liths having a stronger inner skin than the Ladoo and about twenty seeds. It is a very hand- some and attractive fruit of good flavor. Kowla orange. — This is a small-sized, indifferent orange, which becomes yellow on the tree before it is sweet. ^ The Sylhet orange. — This variety, which is very often to be seen in the Calcutta markets, is grown in the district whose name it bears. It aver- ages 5 ounces in weight, has a light skin and good flavor. The Malta and St. Michael oranges have been introduced and thrive well, but are not greatly valued where the Cintra can be grown. Location, etc. — The finest oranges in India and, in the opinion of some — in the world — are grown near Nagpur, which lies in north latitude 21° 9' and east longitude 79° II7, about 350 miles from the sea, and at an altitude of 1,025 feet above mean sea-level. The orchards are fully ex- posed to the sun, and the ground of each orchard nearly level, as they ORANGES IN INDIA. 451 are dotted about at intervals in a gently rolling country where the fine soil has been collected from the exposed and disintegrated trap rock. This soil forms a stiff loam from 2 to 3 feet in depth, containing about 7 per cent, of lime and 1 £ per cent, of vegetable matter. The subsoil is open, nodular limestone mixed with clay, and gives excellent drainage. Climate. — The climate of Nagpur is shown in the following table, which is compiled from the Government Meteorological Reports. It may be described as comparatively hot and moist from June to Septem- ber, cool and dry from October to February, hot and dry from March to May. It must be noted that the temperature given in the following table is taken from a barometer shaded from direct sunshine and from radiation at night. The increase obtained by exposing the barometer to the sun averages 59.8° F., and the decrease from exposing the barometer to the open sky at night varies from 12.8° in January to 2.7° in July. Table showing the climate of Nagpur, India, where very fine oranges are grown. Months. Temperature (degrees F.). Bain-fall. • Maximum. Minimum. Average. 89 97 105 101 116 108 94 94 92 93 88 83 48 50 59 67 72 71 71 72 70 59 50 48 68.6 73.8 81.9 88.8 93.1 85.7 79.1 79.3 77.2 70.7 67.1 78.7 , Inches. 0.61 0.42 0.63 0.45 0.83 •8.99 12.94 8.82 7.92 2.15 0.41 0.34 February . . . . March " April M?v " Juno Jnlv Auirust September October November December During fiye years 116 47 79.0 44.51 There are two distinct seasons in which the trees will flower and ripen fruit, and to obtain high-class fruit the cultivator must elect which sea- sou he will work a particular break or division of the orchard, be- cause the trees will not bear properly at both seasons, and the attempt to make trees bear fruit at both seasons has been the destruction of many plantations in other parts of India. The finest fruit is obtained from flowers that open in June and July. This is on the market from February to May. The other flowering takes place in February and March. This ripens fruit from December to February. Irrigation. — The trees are kept dry during May or December, ac- cording to the season a,t which fruit is wanted. At other seasons irri- gation is carried on sufficient, with the rain fall, to provide 4 inches of water over the entire surface. The water is drawn from wells 30 feet deep by means of a leathern bucket which contains about 25 gallons, by a pair ot'oxcn that walk down an incline plane, pulling a rope that s over a pulley. The cost of drawing water by this means is 1 452 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. anna (say 3 cents) per 1,000 gallons for 30 feet in depth. The water is led into small surface channels having a slope of 1 in 1,000, and from the channels into beds extending round the tree as far as the expanse of the branches. Into those beds 1£ to 2 inches of water is led once in ten days during the absence of sufficient rains, so the soil is kept moist from the flowering time till the fruit is all gathered. Cultivation. — The soil is kept clean and open by plowing or digging with a pick, 4 inches deep, twice yearly. For the crop that ripens dur- ing February —April water is withheld and the soil opened up during April and May. The soil is at the same time drawn away and the roots exposed during fifteen to twenty days. At this time the greater part of the leaves fall off, then 100 pounds weight per tree of old, moist cow-dung is mixed with the soil and the roots covered up and watered heavily, if rain does not fall soon ; this causes the trees to burst into bloom and fresh leaves ; thereafter the soil is kept moist till the fruit is gathered. The same operation carried on in December brings ripe fruit during December and February following. Pruning. — This extends to clearing away suckers from below the graft and cutting out weakly and defective shoots only ; excessive prun- ing must be avoided, as it tends to make the plant run to wood and pre- vents flowering. Picking. — The fruit continues to attain full development during a month from each break of trees that has been started into growth to- gether, and is picked over at intervals of a few days. A faint trace of yellow in the skin of the fruit indicates maturity. When fresh from the tree this fruit has a delightful piquancy that is to a great extent lost by the fruit being packed up closely for a few weeks, but the fruit remains in good condition about two months if not closely packed. Curing, — Xo special curing is given unless the fruit has been gathered unripe. In that case it is packed with fine hay and kept close in a box for a few days. Such fruit is always inferior. Packing. — In packing 30 to 40 pounds weight of oranges are placed in very slim baskets, without any packing material, and the lid tied down. None of the fruit is shipped as merchandise, as the demand in the large cities exceeds the supply. Planting and propagating. — The trees are planted 12 feet apart each way, except for Ladoo, which is given 18 feet apart. Grafting or seedling. — Seeds of Citrus medica, (Jambooree), a large coarse citron of vigorous habit, are sown, and when the stocks are two to three years old are budded. In budding one vertical slit in the bark only is made and the branch bent towards the slit so as to make it gape open 5 into the gape the bud is inserted and the branch released ; it then springs back and closes in the bud which is tied with a strip of fiber. Occjisionnlly the sweet lime (Citrus limetha] is used as ;i stock, and is believed by some to insure more sweetness in the fruit. The best varieties jire invariably budded, as seedlings take so long to pro- duce fruit as to be practically useless in fruit growing. » LEMONS IN INDIA. 453 Size ofnrrJiardfi. — From the nature of the soil required and the for- mation of tiif country large orchards can not be planted; from 5 to 10 acres is a common 8ize. Maturity. — The trees begin to bear at three years'from the bud, carry the heaviest crop between the sixth and tenth year, and after 15 years decay rapidly. Insect peats. — An important insect enemy is the caterpillar of Erythco, which strips the trees of the young foliage during July. Hand picking is the chief remedy employed. An undetermined wood boring insect at- tacks the trees as soon as decay sets in, and is commonly supposed to be the cause of decay. Severe pruning and burning the affected branches is the most effectual remedy. It is doubtful whether any insects are beneficial except in distributing the pollen, but the entomology of Indian fruit culture is fragmentary as yet. LEMONS. Lemons are not exported. The large coarse citron called Jambooree ( Citrus medica) can be produced cheaply in large quantities, but except by dyers for the acid it is but little used and brings a very low price. The sweet lime (Citrus limetha) a fruit having a tight, smooth, very thin skin, ultimately of a pale yellow, and eleven to twelve liths, inclos- ing very pale colored sweet juice without piquant flavor and about ten seeds. The leaves attain 3J by 2 £ inches, slightly toothed, and thorns one-fourth of an inch in length are developed in the axiles. This fruit is widely cultivated, but not to any important extent in one place. It is chiefly grown from seed. The common sour lime (Bagdee Limboo}. — A globular, smooth, pale yellow fruit weighing about one-tenth of a pound, having pale green- ish yellow acid pulp of pleasant flavor inclosed in 10 by 11 liths and numerous seeds having several embryos. The tree is of a dense growing, branching, thorny habit, bears leaves from 2 by 1 to 2 A- by 1J inches, having a stalk one-half inch in length, of which the winged joint is one-quarter of an inch. The flower has four petals, is three-quarters of an inch in diameter, and has twenty two to twenty-five stamens. This is the favorite sour lime. It is used by all classes as a condi- ment and digestive, and is widely produced throughout the country. Tin* trees are raised from seed, and when cared lor properly attain at least fifty years of age. The Pati Limboo, or Kama, is a variety of the above, 3J ounces in weight, oblong in shape, and bearing nipples at both ends. The Popamus or Pumalo, (Citrus decumana), seedlings of this fruit vary greatly and a large proportion are worthless, but the grand, thin-skinned, and red-fleshed varieties that are cultivated near Bom- bay are very delicious and wholesome if eaten in the morning with salt or sugar. A well-developed specimen weighs 4 pounds and is 7 454 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. inches in diameter. It has fourteen to fifteen liths ; seedd few, or some- times none ; embryo one in each seed. The tree thrives in a hot, moist climate and needs the strongest of nitrogenous manures. Near Bom- bay slaughter-house* offal is freely given as manure. Enarching on to a seedling Pnmalo is the means employed for propagation, and regular irrigation when the rain-fall is below 4 inches per month is provided. Publications. — Government of India does not publish prices and sta- tistics of fruit. The Magpur cultivation of the orange, which is by far the most considerable in the country, was initiated by a Scottish gar- dener named Thompson, who was in the service of the local prince about thirty -five years ago. G. MARSHALL WOODROW. POONA, March 3, 1890. PHILIPPINE ISLANDS. •» REPORT BY CONSUL WEBB, OF MANILA.. As stated in a previous report, horticulture is in a very backward condition in the Philippine Archipelago, and, while there are five varie- ties of oranges and four of lemons found here, they are not cultivated to an extent that would create a demand for them for export. The na- tive women, who find the trees growing wild in the jungles or encour- age a few to grow around their huts, bring the fruit to the cities and towns, selling it about the streets and markets ; but there are no care- fully kept orange or lemon groves, as in other orange-producing coun- tries, and no interest whatever is manifested by the Europeans here in the cultivation of the fruit. The results of this indifference and neglect are apparent, as the fruit is of a very inferior quality. I am quite sure there is n<5t a native orange or lemon to be found that would compare at all favorably with the ordinary products of Florida and California. When fit to eat the skin is green and has the appearance of just begin- ning to ripen, and when it reaches the orange color the pulp is either perfectly dry and tasteless or decayed and unfit to eat. When the pulp is sweet and juicy the skin is usually a deep green. Varieties. — The following varieties of oranges and lemons a^e found here: Citrus Aurantium known to the natives as the " IS aranjita." It resem- bles somewhat the ordinary Japanese orange, but is inferior in flavor; the pulp is of a rich, pinkish color, separates readily, and when ripe is quite juicy. It usually measures at maturity about 2£ to 2J inches in diameter and is slightly flattened at the stem and bud ends. Citrus Aurantium, known to the natives as the " Cajel ; n it is the juiciest and most palatable variety found. It has a yellow pulp which clings tenaciously together and is difficult to separate from the skin and the fruit is, therefore, never peeled for the table. The only method ORANGES AND LEMONS IN THE PHILIPPINES. 455 of eating it is to cut away pieces of tbe pulp with the riud adhering to them, leaving the core with the seeds in it in an oblong square piece. The outside pieces are then taken in the fingers and the juice squeezed into the mouth. As a rule the juice has a watery taste although one is occasionally found that yields rich and deliciously flavored juice. Citrus Aurantium or "Pisong" resembles in shape and flavor the Mandarin or *• Kid-glove" orange of China and Japan, but unlike the latter the skin is always green ; it can be easily peeled with the fingers, and the pulp separates freely and without breaking ; it grows plentifully and is very cheap. Citrus Decumana, called by the natives " Lucban," is generally from 4 to 6 inches in diameter, with skin an inch or more in thickness, and closely resembles the " Pomals," brought here from China, except in the color of the skin. The pulp is white and separates readily, and the juice is quite tart. Citrus Madurensis, called by the natives u Sua," is an exact counter- part of the Lucban except that the pulp is red and the juice sweet, with a suggestion of tartness. Citrus Medica or "Limon Eeal" (royal lemon) is shaped like the Mes- sina lemon but is very much smaller and less juicy. The skin is of a yellowish green color when ripe and the juice is very sharply acid. It is excellent fruit for lemonade, for which it is used almost exclusively. Citrus Medica or " Limon " is seldom more than an inch or an inch and a half in diameter, is nearly round, and its flavor closely resembles that of the lime. The skin is quite green until it begins to decay. Citrus Medica or " Limoncito n (little lemon) is seldom more than half or three-quarters of an inch in diameter, and, when ripe, has a yellow- ish green skin. It is slightly sweetish and is used only by the natives io making preserves. Citrus Medica or " Calamondin," when ripe, is usually about an inch in diameter, almost perfectly round, and has a very thin bright yellow skin, and red pulp. The juice is very sour and is used for flavoring sauces and for lemonade. Situations. — The orange and lemon trees are seldom found at a dis- tance of less than 100 meters from the sea and they thrive best at about 200 on high ground and in dry, sandy soil. They are most productive on the higher-level lands where they are partially in the shade of larger trees, although they seem to do fairly well even under the blistering rays of the tropical sun. Climate. — The temperature of the best producing districts varies but little. Last year, which may be taken as a fair average year, the maxi- mum temperature was 765.33, the minimum 755, and the average 759.35. The average annual rain-fall is about 3,000 millimeters. The greatest rain-fall since 1865 occurred in 1876 when it reached 3,072.8 and the least was in 1885 when 905.5 millimeters fell. In September, 1867, 1,110 milli- meters fell in three days, being the heaviest continuous rain-fall ever 156A 6 456 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. known here. The atmosphere is humid at all times and is very moist at night, so much so that in Manila the belief prevails that a foreigner is almost sure to contract rheumatism, neuralgia, or a low type of fever if he sleeps near the earth. Residences for foreigners are, therefore, usually built with the sleeping rooms from 10 to 12 feet above the ground. The nights are damp and cool and the days warm and sultry during the greater part of the year. During January, February, and March rain rarely falls, and frequently December is also a dry month; the rainy season sets in fairly in June, and for six mouths drizzling rains prevail with occasional drenching showers. Irrigation. — Irrigation is never necessary except for the rice fields. The orange and lemon trees develop more rapidly during the rainy than the dry season, and the fruit is gathered eight months in the year. Under proper cultivation oranges and lemons could probably be had the year round. Propagation. — Nature is generally allowed to take its own course in regard to fruits of all kinds, but occasionally an unusually enterprising native will undertake to propagate a few orange trees from the seeds or by the following method : A strong hemp cord is wound several times around a flourishing branch, 2 or 3 feet from the end, and a section of bamboo 4 or 5 inches long and about 2 inches in diameter, is split in halves and bound around the branch, the lower end resting on the cord. Into the bamboo cup is placed some moist earth, which is frequently watered, and into which the branch sends small shoots. When these have developed sufficiently the branch is severed from the tree just below the cord, and, after the latter and the bamboo cup have been removed, it is planted in light, sandy earth, which is kept loose and well broken until the tree fairly takes root ; after this its owner pays no further attention to it except to gather the fruit. No fertilizing material is used, nor is any regular system of pruning followed. A tree thus propagated will bear fruit the following year, while a tree grown from the seed requires four years or more in which to develop into fruition. When trees are planted they are usually placed about 8 yards apart. There are no insects that are known to either injure or benefit the trees. CONCLUSION. 4 The principal orange-producing districts are the provinces of Batan- gas, Bulacau, and Laguna, on the island of Leuzon, but they are found in almost every province of the archipelago. One reason why the natives neglect to cultivate the fruit of the isl- ands is that all who are willing to work can find more profitable em- ployment in the cultivation of hemp, sugar cane, and tobacco, and the care of the orange trees and the picking and selling of the fruit are left, to the women and children. The foreigners, too, find more profit in hemp, sugar, and tobacco than they could possibly realize from fruit, with a corresponding investment of time and money. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN NEW SOUTH WALES. 457 My limited knowledge of horticulture leads me to confidently believe that, under a proper system of grafting, pruning, and fertilizing, tbe oranges of the Philippine could be made to rival those sent herein large quantities from China and Japan, which command a much higher price and are bought in preference to the native fruit by those who can afford to pay for them. Neither figs nor olives are found here, but I am told that a few trees of both kinds have been raised in the door-yards of Europeans from the seeds, yielding, however, very inferior fruit. ALEX. E. WEBB, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Manila, December, 23, 1889. NEW SOUTH WALES. REPORT ST COMMERCIAL AGENT DAWSON, OF NEWCASTLE. Referring to circular on the cultivation of oranges, lemons, olives, and figs, I beg to state that I have written to several parties in regard to the matter, but, thus far, I am able to make only a very meager and unsatisfactory report. In answer to the questions put in the circular, I will take an orangery on the Allyu River as the locality, about 60 miles north of Newcastle. Almost any variety grows well there, and, after deducting expenses, leaves a medium profit in fairly paying seasons. Mandarins, Emperor, thorny, and almost any of the larger sorts are favorites. This is about 0 miles from Vacy, near Patterson, and about 20 or 30 miles from the sea-coast. The elevation is about 100 feet above the sea-level, and the trees are grown in the open hilly country around. But the orangery in question is situated in an elbow of the Ally River, the ground hav- ing evidently been formed from time to time by sediment, sand, etc. The country above this point is very ridgy and hilly — the hills, in some instances, being of limestone formation, and probably on this ac- count the orange flourishes, the deposit naturally containing a certain amount of lime subsoil. About 20 feet deeper the soil is of a clayey nature. Other orangeries are in the neighborhood, some of which are on the hills, and all are in a bearing condition ; but in the opinion of most people the flavor is not so rich as that of those grown on the alluvial soil, and the rind of the latter is thinner. The bark disease has lately attacked the trees in this vicinity. The trees grow better in fairly dry seasons with occasional showers, but of course droughts will kill them, or partly so. Very wet weather causes the fruit to drop off or split. No irrigation is used, and it is questionable if the increase in the yield would compensate for the extra cost. The trees are in all stages 458 FEUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. of growth, from one to twenty and thirty years, owing to new trees being planted in the place of old ones which have died from the bark disease. This disease attacks the roots and the foot of the tree. The bark at that place splits and decays, after which the branches die. Trees are plowed between about 3£ inches deep. The trees are not pruned very much. They are merely thinned. When in full bearing the foliage nearly reaches the ground. The oranges are picked about from July to September and sold to dealers from the tree, not cured. The dealers cart them in teams to Maitland, about 20 miles north of here, and then re-sell in smaller quantities. The trees are planted from 20 to 30 feet apart, from seedlings, bitter orange or lemon butts grafted or budded. There are from 10 to 30 acres to a grove, and the crop generally increases with the age and size of the trees. This district is free from insect pests. Nut grass, or Townshend's curse, is the greatest nuisance in the flooded and alluvial soil. THOMAS M. DAWSON, Commercial Agent. UNITED STATES COMMERCIAL AGENCY, Newcastle, N. 8. W., March 24, 1890. AUSTRALASIA. REPORT BY CONSUL GRIFFIN, OF SYDNEY. It is perhaps not generally known that citrus fruits, and especially oranges and lemons, will grow to perfection through the whole of the southern part of this great island continent, on the table-lands in the interior and along the sides of the mountain ranges in the far north. In portions of Queensland and of south and western Australia, where the climate resembles that of Spain and Italy, the trees grow luxu- riously and bear most delicious fruit. In no portion of Australasia is the cultivation of citrus plants looked upon as a profitable industry, except in the colony of New South Wales, and there only in one or two counties. The are.a of orangeries in New South Wales at the end of $!arch, 1889, is given by the Government statistician as 10,857 acres, against 8,875 acres in 1888. The attention given to the export of oranges dur- ing the last few years has led to extensive orange-planting. The de- mand for young trees has been such that it has been found difficult to obtain plants of good varieties, and the price has more than doubled. AREA OF ORANGERIES AND PRODUCTION. The only colonies which prepare statistics to show the area of land under cultivation with oranges are New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN AUSTRALASIA. 459 The following returns are extracted from the latest Government sta- tistical tables published in those colonies : Area under crop, gross produce, and average produce per acre of oranges, in New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria. NEW SOUTH WALES. Years. Area un- der crop. Gross produce. Average produce per acre. Year ended March 31— Acres. 4,287 Dozen. 3, 398, 455 Dozen. 792.73 5,106 2,763,811 541.28 5,939 3, 810, 356 641.58 6,301 5, 164, 134 819. 59 6,716 4, 978, 829 741.34 7,268 8, 102, 658 1, 101. 08 6,911 4, 097, 666 592.90 7,733 8, 749, 256 1, 131. 50 ^gg7 7,920 6, 376, 868 805.16 1888 8,875 8,704,677 980.80 1889 10,851 19, 693, 880 1,722.78 NOTE.— Returns of oranges for years prior to 1889 are understated. QUEENSLAND. Year ended December 31— 1879 219 92,140 420.73 253 199, 461 791. 51 1881 252 141, 910 561. 13 1882. 383 164, 616 429. 53 1883 399 489, 344 1,227.93 1884 457 141, 285 309.16 633 658,549 1, 040. 36 1886 751 451,777 601.57 1887 992 772,380 778.61 1888 1,068 742, 417 695.15 VICTORIA. Years ended March 31— Area under crop. Gross produce. Olives. Oranges and lemons. Olives. Olive oil Oranges and lemons. 1878 Acre a. 10 20 10 17 10 2 15 13 14 1 18 Acres. Owt. QaUons. Oases. 1879 6 2 20 5 9 1880 30 6 1881 17 15 1882 1883 35 1884 4 2 6 34 1885 1886 1887 1888 It is probable that when the returns for 1889 for Victoria are avail- able they will show a very large increase, for since the inauguration of irrigation colonies there, large areas of orangeries have been planted at Mildura and elsewhere. The orange and lemon tree is also being planted on a large scale at the newly established irrigation colonies in South 460 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES Australia. Much attention is being paid to citrus culture in New Zea- land, where the soil and climate, particularly in the north island, are well adapted to the industry. The oft-repeated statement that only sour oranges mature in that colony is due to the fact that heretofore the oranges were pro luced from the seedling and that the best grafted vari- eties have only been recently introduced. The orange was first planted in New South Wales by Captain Hun- ter, who accompanied Capt. Arthur Philip and the early settlers to Australia in 1788. The ship which conveyed them, while on the voy- age stopped at Rio, where orange plants and seed were obtained. I learn from Captain Hunter's journal of transactions at Port Jackson (Sydney) that some of these plants were taken to Norfolk Island. There is a reference to the latter fact in the journal of Lieutenant King, R. N., who says : Two orange trees which I brought with me from Sydney were kept in tubs until I could find a sheltered situation in which I could plant them. In another part of the same journal it is recorded that " the orange trees were in a thriving state." The fine appearance of the orange groves and the superb flavor of the fruit in new South Wales are fre- quently mentioned in the early records of the colony. Flourishing orange groves are, in the present day, to be found almost everywhere within a radius of 50 miles from the city of Sydney, the oldest trees being found about Parramatta, Lane Cove, and Central Cumberland; while in the valleys of the Hunter, the Hawkesbury, Man- ning, Nepean, Richmond, and Clarence Rivers are flourishing groves. It would be difficult to find in any part of the world groves more beau- tiful or luxuriant than those around Parramatta. There can be seen trees laden with blossoms and fruit in every stage of growth. BEST VARIETIES FOR PROFIT. There are many varieties of oranges and lemons in New South Wales, all of which are more or less profitable. Every grower has his favorite, and it would be difficult to select- any particular kind as yielding larger profit than another. It is probable, however, if a census of opinion were taken that there would be a majority in fa vor of the Parramatta orange (citrus aur&ntium variety) brought originally from Brazil in the early days of the colony. This kind is met with in the markets more often and in greater number than any other variety of orange. The skin is usually thick, but there is nothing coarse about the fruit. Many of Ihe oranges are said to be fruits of seedlings, and I am informed by Mr. Charles Moore, the direc- tor of the Sydney botanic gardens, that, as a rule, seedlings do not pro- duce the same quality of fruit as that from which the seeds were taken; also, that resort must be had to budding, grafting, or layering in order to produce really good fruit. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN AUSTRALASIA. 461 There is a great deal said about thin-skinned oranges, but in reality the quality of the soil has most to do with the texture of the skin. New land produces coarse fruit, but as the soil becomes somewhat impover- ished by the action of the roots the skin becomes finer. Any grower can produce thin skinned oranges by allowing his land to become exhausted, but he soon finds out that it will not pay to do so. The most experi- enced growers pursue a medium course. Thick-skinned oranges, being more porous, are not suitable for export. The Australian navel or Bahia* — This is a remarkably fine orange It often measures from 15 to 16 inches in circumference. It is rich, juicy, and delicious; it is seedless, or nearly so, and commands a high, price. The tree is liable to become a shy bearer. It likes a deep, loamy soil, and plenty of water. The best specimens are grown on the Hun- ter, Manning, and Richmond Rivers. Great care, however, is necessary with its culture. In my report on fruit transmitted in June, 1887, I mentioned that this orange was identical with the Washington Navel in California, and that it came originally from Brazil, and was intro- duced into California from Australia. Since the publication of my re- port W. B. M. Lelong, secretary of the State Board of Horticulture, has expressed the opinion that the Australian tree does not resemble the Washington Navel in its habit, and that the resemblance in foliage has led to its mistaken identity. In a work entitled "A Treatise on Citrus Culture in California," published in 1888, Mr. Lelong thus de- scribes the Australian Navel : The fruit varies greatly in size, all sizes generally being found on the same tree. A very shy bearer; blooms profusely, but very few of the blooms set ; often the trees are loaded with fruit, and after having attained the size of marbles drop to the ground without an\ apparent cause whatever; it also has a tendency to split at the navel. The navel is usually large and prominent, unlike that of the Washington Navel, which is round and generally small. This variety was first introduced into Califor- nia by the late Lewis Wolfskill. The trees were imported from Australia in 1874. It is maintained here that the Australian Naval was introduced into California at a much earlier date than 1874. Both the tree and fruit are easily recognized by Mr. Leloug's description, but the difference in the so-called varieties is not so marked as Mr. Lelong states. The truth is the fruit varies greatly even in the same orange groves. Trees planted at the same time and in the same kind of soil often differ materially. Some of these will be prolific, while others will bear scarcely any fruit. This peculiarity has led many to believe that there are two varieties of the Australian Navel, one a prolific and the other a shy bearer. Closer observations on the part of experts to this delicious fruit would soon en- able them to settle the question. According to Mr. H. E. Van Deman, Chief of Division of Pomology, Washington, the trees known as the Washington Navel were first imported by Mr. William Saunders, of the United States Department of Agriculture, from Bahia, Brazil, in 1670. They were twelve in number, supposed to * See report of Consul Burke of Bahia relative to this orange. 462 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. be all alike, having been propagated and grown in Brazil especially for the Depart- ment and under the direction of the Commissioner of Agriculture. They were named by Mr. Saunders Bahia, in honor of the place from which they came. Two trees prop- agated from these were sent to Mrs. S. C. Tibbetts, of Riverside, Cal., in 1873. When these trees fruited and their superior quality was ascertained they were called by the orange-growers of California the Washington or Riverside Navel, to distinguish, the variety from the Australian Navel, then commonly grown. Mr. Van Deman also mentions that this variety of orange, bearing ex- cellent fruit, has been growing for several years in Florida. He has de- voted much study to the origin, manner of introduction etc., of the navel orange, and he states that most of the oranges named constitute distinct varieties, although some still hold to the opinion that these differences are in a great measure caused by peculiarities of soil, climate, and treatment. He further says : After examining specimens of fruit from many places in Florida and California under all of these synonyms and those grown on the original trees hero, and having read what has been published in the papers on the subject, I see no reason for believ- ing that all of the twelve trees imported from Brazil are not all of one variety. M. J. Harold, agricultural and horticultural reporter for the " Syd- ney Town and Country Journal," who has had much experience with citrus fruits both in California and Australia, is of opinion that the Australian Navel and the Washington or Eiverside Navel are essen- tially the same. In a recent interview with me he said he had com- pared very carefully the variety grown in each country, and that he was fully satisfied there was no difference between them. In regard to the statements made by certain pomologists that the navel or central depression on the Australian variety was larger and not so round as that on the California orange, he said such statements could only have been made after imperfect observation or from the examination of one or two specimens. There is no decided difference in the size or shape of the navel, and the difference, if any, is only what might be expected in oranges of different size even off the same tree. The fruit grows alike in both countries and is apt to split in the same way. When the trees are nine or ten years of age the fruit often grows to about the size of a small marble or hickory-nut and then falls off. Mr. Uarrold further said that he would be very glad to knfw that the California nurserymen possess a new variety of Navel or Bahia orange, but his experience and that of his friends, both in Australia and the United States, will not warrant any such conclusion. No harm, however, can result from experimenting in this direction with the Navel orange. Mr. J. Beresford Cairnes, vice-president of the Fruit Growers' Union of New South Wales, informs me that he has imported from California a large number of the best varieties of orange trees on account of fruit- growers near Parramatta. The Messrs. Chaffy Brothers have also planted a considerable area with California orange trees at their irriga- ORANGES AND LEMONS IN AUSTRALASIA. 463 tioi) colonies on the banks of the Murray River, several hundred miles inland, and all their trees are in a flourishing condition, thus disprov- ing the contention that the orange will not grow away from the influ- ence of the ocean. Mr. Angus McKay, agricultural and horticultural instructor at the Tecnological College, Sydney, says that the best results are obtained on laud from 10 to 20 miles from the coast, and Mr. D. A. C rich ton states that the orange thrives and bears excellent fruit in the inland districts. He says in a pamphlet published at Melbourne during the last year: Having had an extensive experience in the cultivation of citrus fruits in Australia I can say there is no foundation for the belief that the orange will not grow and do well away from the influence of the ocean. I am certain that both the orange and lemon may be grown successfully in many districts north and south of the Mnrray, provided the trees receive the attention they require. In fact I believe that the cultivation of the citrus fruit will rank among the most profitable of our industries, as there is a rapidly expanding home market for them and any surplus that can be produced can be sold to advantage in other parts of the world. The Siletto (or cluster orange).— 7X11 is variety is much liked in Australia and is a great favorite with gro wers. The fruit is fine, large and deli- cious, and is something like the Mediterranean sweet, but better suited to the soil and climate of Australia than the latter variety. The Siletto as its name implies, grows in clusters and some of the longest and finest 1 have ever seen may be found in the orange groves of New South Wales. The St. Michael. — This orange is also a great favorite both with grow- ers and consumers. It is sweet and thin-skinned when grown under proper conditions. It is said, however, not to be a hardy tree and to require very great attention and experience to cultivate it properly. Mr. D. A. Crichton says that it should have a sheltered situation, for, like the Navel, if circumstances are not favorable, it is a shy bearer and the fruit is apt to lose its high character. The hardier varieties of the orange wili ripen at an elevation from 50 to 2,000 feet above the sea, but they must be kept from frost. The Navel, St. Michael, and some other varieties are more easily injured by the hot winds than the Paramatta, Rio, or common orange. The Seville, or bitter orange (citrus vulgaris), is also grown in this colony, but only to a limited extent. It is one of the best varieties for marmalade and for the manufacture of perfume. The Mandarin orange (citrus nobilis}. — This forms an interesting group in Australia. The group embraces the Canton, the Emperor of China, the Thorny, and the Kumquat. The first three are valuable, and es- pecially the Canton. The fruit is thin-skinned, sweet, and delicious. The Emperor is equally sweet, juicy, and fine flavored, but smaller in size than the Canton. The Thorny is also a sweet and juicy fruit, but is smaller than the Emperor. Mr. S. W. Pye cultivates with fair suc- cess two new varieties, the Capera and the Ruby. Of the different varieties of the lemon (Citrus lemonium) grown in 464 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIG!ST COUNTRIES. Australia, tbe Lisbon is the most popular ; but there are several kinds of Lisbons, the best known of whi.^h are the variegated and the thoruless. The common lemon is also cultivated, but the fruit is small and interior, when compared with the Lisbon. Mr. George W. Knight, whose testi- mony was taken by the Royal Commission of Victoria on vegetable products, states that the lemon will not stand the warm, dry climate of the northern part of Victoria and that its leaves do not attain half the ordinary size there. The lime (Citrus limetta) is cultivated more or less in various parts of Australia, and will thrive almost anywhere when the thermometer does not fall lower than 20 degrees above zero. The best kinds are the Lemon lime, the Bergamot, the Mela Rose, and the small Naples lime. All these will grow luxuriantly over a large extent of country. They are found on the Blue Mountains and on the table lands of the New England district in New South Wales. They are not partial to a high temperature and especially where the sun is hot enough to scorch them. They like a little frost and what is called a dormant climate. In Queens- land both the orange and lemon trees' have an inclination to form into a crown at the surface and branch out in long luxuriant branches like the bamboo. The largest orange and lemon trees in Australasia are to be found in the county of Cumberland, in Mr. S. N. Pye's grove at Rocky Hall, Par- amatta. They are the oldest trees in this part of the world, having been planted nearly a century ago. Some of the trees are over 40 feet in height and have a diameter of 22 inches. They have been mentioned in various reports I have made as yielding as many as 10,000 oranges per tree in a single season. SOIL FORMATION. The soil in the orange-growing district about Paramatta consists principally of Wianainatta shales overlying sandstone. The soil around Lane Cove, also in the Paramatta district, has been carefully analyzed by Mr. W. A. Dixon, F. I. C., P. C. S., instructor in chemistry, Sydney Technical College, for Mr. Angus McKay, instructor in agriculture at the same college. Mr. Dixon remarks with reference to soil analyses : It may be sai 30. 129 29. 983 30. 142 30: 125 30. 060 Inchest. 30. 335 30.329 30.214 30. 255 30. 189 30. 348 30. 349 30. 538 30. 250 30. .'{83 30.517 30. 283 Inches. 29. 804 29.713 29. 550 29. 567 L>9. 624 29. 772 20. 851 U9.714 29. 580 29. 654 29. 623 29. 781 0 69.2 73.4 75.3 76.5 77.7 74.6 6!). 9 65.7 59. 1 f>8. 9 60. 5 65.1 o 90.4 99.3 94.5 96. 0 94.6 91.5 85.9 82.8 75.5 76.0 78.6 85.7 o 54.6 5ti. 9 59.4 61.8 61.8 61.8 55.6 53. 0 41.6 37.2 41.5 45.5 Inches. 0.771 3. 485 6.008 1.232 2. 002 4. 288 6.047 3.346 0 717 8.464 3.832 3.307 10 9 13 5 8 19 21 17 3 12 10 Inches. 0. 248 1.560 1. 482 0. 430 0.940 1.113 2. 940 0. 638 0.498 3. 542 0.367 1.603 Oct. 17 Nov. 28 Dec. 14 Jan. 21 Feb. 23 Mar. 25 Apr. 17 May 7 Juiie 6 July 16 Aug. 14 Sept. 21 November. 1888 December, 188* January 1 8^9 February. 1.-89 March. l'8H9 April 18o9 May, 1889 June, 1889 Julv, 1889 August, 1889 September, 1889 Sums, means, or extremes ...... 30. 056 30.538 29. 550 68.8 99.3 37.2 43. 499 139 3.542 July 16 MELBOURNE, VICTORIA, [91 feet above sea-level.] Month. Barometer (reduced to 320 Fah.). Temperature (in shade). . Rain-fall. Mean. Highest reading. Lowest reading. Mean. Extremes. Total fall. No. of days. Greatest fall. Date. Max. Min. October 1888 Inches. 3(». 046 29. 911 29. 8>-4 29. 862 29. 887 30.015 30. 042 30. 082 29. 758 30.158 30. 020 29.937 Inches. oO. 371 30. 349 30. 196 30. 191 30. 237 30. 389 30. 450 30. 540 30. 246 30. 473 30. 582 30. 329 Inches. 29. 483 29. 507 29. 374 29. 413 - 29. 570 •29. 439 1-9.501 29. 547 29.218 29. 656 29. 403 29. 461 0 56.1 62.7 66.7 67.7 65.9 64.4 60.5 55.6 52.5 47.8 50.1 52.3 o 86.0 102. 0 !»6. 4 99.2 96.0 96.0 87.9 78.1 66.0 62.1 68.0 74.5 o 35.1 38.1 47.2 49.7 45.5 43.0 37.2 39.4 37.6 31.3 32.1 32.1 Inches. 1.35 0.62 2.72 4.22 1.50 0.24 3.60 0.94 2.78 1.64 2.06 1.51 8 6 9 11 7 5 7 11 16 8 15 14 Inches. 0.54 0.20 1.10 1.80 0.78 0.12 1.63 0.32 0.65 0.52 0.31 0.25 Oct. 7 Nov. 12 Dec. 31 Jan. 3 Feb. 6 Mar. 18 Apr. 7 May 13 June 13 July 2 Aug. 31 Sept. 23 November 1888 December, 188* January, 1^89 February. U8.1 March, 1 889 April, 188!> May, 1889 June 1889 Julv, 1889 August, 1889 September, 1889 . = Sums, means, and t extremes 29. 967 30. 582 29.218 58.5 102.0 31.3 23.18 117 1.80 Jan. 3 Average yearly rain-fall for the last thirty-one years, 25.75 inches. Average number of rainy days for the last thirty-one years, 135. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN AUSTRALASIA. 469 ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA. [From October 1, 1888, to September 30. 1889.] Month. Barometer (reduced to 32° Fall, nieansi-a-level). Temperature (in shade). Rain-fall. Meau. Highest reading. Lowest Tending. Meau. Extremes. Total fall. No. of days. «~F*; Date. Max. Min. October 1888 . ... Inches. 30. 181 30.011 29. 972 29. 9X4 30. 004 30. 100 30. 144 30.174 29.938 30. 274 30.134 30.066 Inches. 30. 500 30. 361' 30.256 ?0. 268 30. :i(i5 30.4'6 30. 643 30.610 30. 507 30. 685 30. 662 30. 479 Inches. l'9.72l 29.610 •JO. tii:. •29. 5l'0 I'll. 57(1 29.640 29. 4.V2 29 654 29.387 29. 760 20.572 29.5tiO 0 62.8 71.4 74.8 75.2 73. 4 70.9 63.0 57.0 53.8 .'0. 5 5X1 55.2 o 91.9 105.8 107.5 109.0 100.4 102.0 82.5 75.5 68.3 65.9 71.3 76.7 o 41.5 4(5.4 48.9 54.1 53.5 49.6 49.6 37.5 38.5 36.3 38.0 38.5 Inches. 0. 3(.0 0. 655 0. 278 2.084 0.231 0.813 5.654 4.0*6 4. 752 1.211 3.589 1.504 5 8 8 8 2 8 15 14 22 14 20 16 Inche*. 0.229 (Vt. 4 0.156 Nov. 13 0. 1.4 Dir. '29 2.2JI9 Jan. 2 0.1:8 l-rl>. -' 0. 1'1'f) Mar. 7 2.207 Apr. 2 1.643 ' Ma\ -0 1.362 Juno 13 0 210 July 31 0.915 AuL'. 7 0. 226 Sept. 27 November, 18J-8 IVrember, 1888 ... J.uiuarv 188S» February, 18$9 March, 1881 ... April, 1889 May, 1889 June, 1889 ... July, 1889. Auirnsts 1889 September, lt-89 Sums or means . . 30. 083 30. 685 29.387 63.4 109.0 3C.3 26.063 140 2.299 i Jan. 2 Average yearly rain-fall for last thirty-two years, 20.083 inches. Average number of rainy days fo ast thirty-two years, 128. PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIA. fLat., 31° 57' 10" S.; Long., 115° 52' E. Altitude, 57 feet.] Month. Barometer (reduced to 32° Fah.). Temperature (in shade). Rain-fall. Mean. Highest reading. Lowest reading. Mean. Extremes. Total NO. of fell- 'days. i Greatest fall. Date. Max. Mm. October 1888 Inche*. 30.112 29.984 29. 990 29.923 29 991 30. 076 30. 122 30. 110 30. 095 3Q. 231 30. 191 3Q. 128 Inches. 30.438 30. 303 30.230 30. 205 30. 170 30.319 30. 397 30.447 30. 426 30.518 30. 478 30.572 Inches. 29. 909 29. 725 29. 773 29. 580 29.778 29.848 29. 825 29. 839 29. Gil 29.812 29.662 29.704 0 64 69 72 73 74 76 67 59 67 54 54 58 o 95 97 102 105 101 104 91 79 75 70 73 84 o 45 46 55 f-2 56 5G 47 41 39 38 34 38 Inches. ' 3. 05 12 1. 37 lo 1.11 6 0.00 0 0.01 , 1 0.68 3 1.72 10 4.02 15 4.87 18 3.23 17 5. G9 14 2.08 11 Inches. 0.27 0. 3-2 1.72 0 00 0.01 0.47 0>8 0.81 0.74 0 87 1.69 0.72 Oct. 3 Nor, 8 Doc. 1 Feb." 19 Mar. 23 Apr. 16 May 2 June 27 July 6 Aug. 15 Sept. 16 November, 1888 December, 1888 January, 1889 February, 1889 March. 1889 April 1889 Mav,1889 June, 18*9 July 1889 August, 1889 September 1889 Sums or means Barometer mean for twelve previous years, 30 inches. Average yearly rain-fall for twelve previous years, inches. Average number of rainy days for twelve previous years, — . Average temperature for twelve previous years, — °. HOB ART, TASMANIA. October. 1888... Inches. 29.985 Inches. 30. 393 Inches. 29. 420 0 52.7 0 80.3 0 34.0 Inches. 1 59 19 Inches. 0 -28 Oct. 6 November, 1888 December, 1888 January, 1889 29.871 29.947 29 875 30.441 3d. r;47 30 370 29.082 29. 4-> 29 298 57.4 61.7 63 3 98.0 91.3 91 5 39.7 39.0' 44 0 2.23 1.45 2 36 10 6 13 0.84 0.54 0 75 Nov. 15 Dec. 20 Jan 14 February, 1889 29 854 30 340 29 348 62 5 95 0 44 7 1 57 12 0 48 Feb. 5 March 1889 . 29 991 30 452 28 960 60 1 89 0 42 2 0 72 12 0 25 Mar 8 April 188i) 30 043 30 474 •JQ 595 57 3 77 7 36 8 2.78 14 1 r>7 Apr 8 May 1889 HO 100 30 630 29 48~? 5° 6 72 0 36 2 0 96 15 0 32 May 22 June 1889 '29 698 30 293 29 107 48 4 60 0 33 8 8. 15 01 4 11 July, 1889 30 136 30 50) 29 425 47 3 60 3 33 5 1 99 7 0 93 July 2 A.igimt. 1889 September, 1889 29. 976 29.880 30.716 30. 375 •29. 370 29.264 4H.4 49.9 66.8 70.2 32.2 »3.7 0.96 1.13 13 16 0.24 0.18 AUK. 13 Sept 1 Sums or means 29.942 30.716 28.960 55. 13 98.0 32.2 25.89 158 411 June 14 early rain-fall for 47 years, 29.26 inchen. Average number of rainy day§ for 47 years. 162. 470 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. PLANTING. Planting in New South Wales generally takes place between the middle of March and the end of April, although it may be done at other times. It must be remembered that the seasons here are the opposite to those in America. Trees planted early in the Australian autumn (in March) begin quickly to take root, as the ground at that period contains considerable warmth. The plants soon recover from the check caused by removal and are fairly established before the winter sets in. If trees are planted in the Australian winter, say in June and July, the growth is necessarily less active and the plants are liable to suffer from the effects of the winds and frosts, where frost occurs. When it is not convenient to plant in autumn the leading authorities say it is better to wait until spring (September) rather than put the trees in during the winter months. As a rule trees should not be shifted after their spring growth has fairly started or before their summer growth has matured. Mr. D. A. Crichton, in urging this plan, says : It must be clearly understood, however, that though I advocate autumn planting where practicable, it is essential that the trees are in a fitting condition for shifting. As a matter of fact the summer growth, very frequently, does not mature early enough for the trees to be shifted in the autumn. The same authority is very averse to planting trees close together. He says that the intervening space ought to be fully 24 feet from tree to tree, except in the case of the smaller varieties. The Mandarin, be- ing less robust than other kinds, may be planted out at distances from 15 to 18 feet apart, according to growth or variety. PROPAGATION. Opinion is divided here as to the best method of propagation, but the most successful growers prefer grafting to budding. Most of the trees sold by nurserymen are raised by grafting, but some cultivators mention that the budding process is the best, as grafted trees go off through the bark, decaying at the place where the scion was united to the tree. As to the best kind of stock, many favor the lemon for the reason that it is not only more vigorous and hardy, but less apt to be injured by re- moval. The late James Pye, who had more than fifty years7 experience with Citrus fruit cultivation at Paramatta, preferred to graft on the orange stock instead of on lemon stocks. He was also a strong advocate for cultivating seedlings and grafting upon them instead of the lemon stocks. He said : I commenced grafting upon the bitter orange stocks about five years ago. I find them free from all insects and looking healthier than any other kind. Mr. Charles Moore, director of the Botanic Gardens, Sydney, when he visited the orange-growing countries some years ago, observed that ORANGES AND LEMONS IN AUSTRALASIA. 471 this method was used by the orange growers in Spain to propagate their trees. Mr. James Pye, in connection with this matter, said : I have 110 objection to one cross \vith the common lemon ; but if you j£o ou year after year, it deteriorates the quality of trie fruit (more j>;irticulaily the keeping quality) as well as increases the red scale. There is no tree so subject to the red scale as the lemon tree, and there ia none of the orange family so free from it as the bitter orange. IRRIGATION. Irrigation, for fruit-raising, has not been sufficiently tested in Aus- tralia to enable an opinion to be given as to its effect by any well-de- fined results so far as orangeries are concerned. * The t nil h is, irrigation is not practiced systematically in New South Wales. In Victoria, and South Australia, where irrigation colonies have been started, the trees are too young to bear fruit; -but their healthy condition is au evidence of what may be expected in the near future. It is very generally un- derstood by farmers that no other class' of fruits require irrigation so much as those of the Citrus family. Crops can not be depended upon during seasons of dry weather unless supplied with water by artificial means. The trees are always in au active state of growth and require a great deal of moisture ; therefore this moisture must be supplied from some source or otherwise root-action is interfered with more or less and the trees will suffer. Mr. D. A. Crichton poiats with pride to what has been done by the irrigationists in Victoria. He does not, however, propose any precise rules to be followed other than not to allow the trees to flag through lack of moisture at .the roots. Care must also be taken not to supply water too freely, as that will make the fruit coarse, want- ing in flavor, and too tender for packing and keeping. The best land is drained and trenched, and by the time the trees come into bearing, the expenses have often amounted to considerably over £100 ($487) per acre. The fertilization at Paramatta consists principally in the use of nitrogenous substances. PRUNING. Many growers recommend great care to be taken in pruning, from the fact that it is often productive of more harm than good. No more cut- ting ought to be done than circumstances render necessary. In the case of trees which have arrived at full bearing age little is required in the way of pruning. The removal of rank shoots, dead or diseased wood, and the thinning out of branches when overcrowded, so to allow the air to circulate freely, are about all that is necessary. The case is different with young trees, for there the object of the cultivator is the develop- ment of a strong growth of wood in a particular direction. The knife in that case must be used pretty freely. Young trees should have suffi- cient, lateral shoots left to balance the plants in each direction and form the heads. Shoots not required for the development of the tree should be cut away. It is better, however, to leave a few more shoots than those which will b^ ultimately required to form the trees, in order to 156A - 6 472 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. afford the stems the necessary protection from the sun, removing them as the trees increase in size. In training trees of the citrus family, it is desirable that the branches hang to witlr.u about 2 feet of the ground, so as to protect the trunks from the heat of the sun in summer. It is not an uncommon thing for trees to be trained high, so that horse-power cultivators can be used close to the stem, but Mr. Oichton says the practice is bad, and he is of opinion that the cracking or discoloration of the bark, which is so common in this part of the world in orange and other fruit trees, is caused by the sap fermenting through the action of the sun. By training the head low there will be no trouble caused by the exposure of the trunks. Besides, trees with low heads are less liable to suffer from high winds. It is not advisable to let young orange trees bear too freely. The growth of wood in young trees is the chief consideration. Trees should be five years 'old before they are allowed to bear heavy crops, as by that time they will have attained a fair amount of growth. It is said to be highly important that the trees should be placed in a position where their roots will not be subject to extremes of drought or excessive moisture or to sudden changes in temperature. The remedy for this is first by trenching and draining the ground thoroughly so as to secure the most perfect root bed, and then by mulching the surface soil, so as to shelter it from the full power of the sun and drying winds. The temperature in deeply- worked and well-drained land is higher in winter and lower in summer than in shallow or undrained soil. Nor is the land so readily affected by atmospheric changes. PICKING AND PACKING. Oranges and lemons are picked from April to November. The plan is to leave them on the trees until they arc ripe, or nearly so. The most experienced growers cut them from the stems instead of pulling them, although the latter method is mostly pursued. Care is taken not to pick the fruit in damp or wet weather, and not to put them in boxes until they are free from moisture. The oranges packed by Mr. E. B. Cairnes at Paramatta for the London market turned out very well for trial shipments. The fruit was wrapped in tissue paper, put in boxes of uniform size, and subjected to but little pressure in nailing on the covers. Mr. Cairnes states that before the export of fruit can prove a profit- able industry for long distances better provisions than exist at pres- ent will have to be made for the care of the fruit during the voyage. Even temperature is required while in transit, and the fruit ought not to be subjected to either extreme of heat or cold. CURING. Very little has been done in the way of curing citrus fruits in Aus- tralia. Citron is not put up for sale, and the small quantities made are only for families for their own private use. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN AUSTRALASIA. 473 SIZE OF ORANGERIES. The orange groves in Australia vary in size from 1 to 200 acres. Orange and lemon trees are seldom however planted so as to form groves of either of these trees exclusively other fruit trees are inter- spered, called here " summer fruits," such as peaches, apricots, passion, and other fruits. The average holdings vary from 6 to 20 acres in extent. AGE OF FRUIT TREES. It is said orange and lemon trees do not come into full bearing until ten or twelve years after they are planted, although they may commence bearing in the fifth year. INSECT PESTS. Mr. Charles Moore, director of the Botanic Gardens, Sydney, informs nit' " that the insects that attack the orange tree are the common small white scale, the brown scale, and the smooth surface. white coccus." These insects have at times made great ravages among the orange groves and orchards. Experienced growers keep their trees compara- tively free from these insects. It is very generally believed that the ravages of these pests are due to defective cultivation. Mr. C. Moore states that various remedies have been employed in Australia to get rid of the attacks of insects, The principal remedy being Fishursfs compound, but the results have not been commensurate with the cost attending the use of such compounds. There is no doubt many of the compounds will destroy the insects, but their use in a large way is impracticable. The best remedy in my opinion is to improve the cultivation, as healthy plants will throw off all pests. Mr. Crichton recommends that care be exercised in preparing and draining the ground before planting the trees. His experience is that when this is done and the trees are fed well and mulched before dry weather sets in disease, insects, and fungoid pests seldom cause trouble in an orangery. According to the same authority the remedies gener- ally employed for scale are lime, sulphur, soft soap, whale-oil soap, kero- sene, tobacco water, and various patent insecticides; also quassia water is safe and good. He recommends the following remedies as affording better results than any others hitherto tried: (1) Arsenical compounds; (2) petroleum, and (3) pyrethrum, and says: The first acts through the stomach, and is effectual chiefly against mandibular in- sects; the second and third act by contact, and are therefore of more general appli- cation. Mr. Charles Moore does not think that the fluted or cottony cushion scale, which has proved so destructive to orchards in California, has attacked the orange and lemon trees to any great extent in this colony, and this opinion he also expressed in 1886, and which was reported by 474 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. ine to the Department of State in my dispatch No. 89, of 23d January, 1886. Prof. F. M. Webster and Mr. Albert Koebele, of the Department of Agriculture. Washington, D. C., who visited Australia during the year 1888, are of opinion that the absence of the cottony cushion scale, Icerya, is due to the prevalence of the Australian lady-bird, Vedolia cardinalis, which not only feeds upon the scale itself, but deposits its eggs beneath them, and the young Iarva3 of the lady-bird burrow into the egg masses from below and feed upon the eggs of the leery as ; later they attack the Iceryas of all sizes. During the last two years a number of Australian lady-birds have been introduced into infected orchards in California with the most gratifying results. Prof. D. W. Ooquillett, of Los Angeles, Gal., has very carefully studied the life-history of the lady-bird, and an account of them is contained in Professor Riley's Annual Report for 1888. In Insect Life, volume 2, No. 3, 1889, page 70, published by authority of the Secretary of Agriculture, Washington, Prof. D. W. Coquillett states that the Australian lady-birds have been distributed through many orchards *on the Pacific slope of the United States, and that they have spread very rapidly. Mr. J. R. Dobbin, of St. Gabriel, Gal., stated, in July, 1889, that the Australian lady-bird had multiplied and spread over 3,200 trees in his orchard, and that the cottouy cushion scale was rapidly disappearing. He says : I made a public statement that my orchard would be free of Icerya by the first of November, but the work has gone on with such amazing speed and thoroughness that I am to-day confident that the pest will have been thoroughly exterminated from my trees by the first of August. As the lady-bird has been extensively distributed, I feel positive from my own experience that the entire valley (San Gabriel) will be prac- tically free from the Icerya before the advent of the new year. Citrus trees are affected with what is called the lemon-tree borer, jffimona hirta, in both Australia and New Zealand. In some districts the trees are completely riddled by this pest. Mr. A. T. Urquard of the Karaka in New Zealand, forwarded specimens of these insects to Prof. T. Kirk, F. L. S., of New Zealand, in the pupa state, enabling the professor to identify them with the dEmona hirta of Captain Brown's " Manual of the New Zealand Coleoptera." Mr. Urquhard stated that he had observed this insect for several years in connection with the fertilization of the Yucca fiber plant, but its identity with tht lemon- tree borer has not hitherto been suspected. Professor Kirk says that the best way to stop the inroads of the borer is to prevent the deposition of eggs ; this he says, however, can not be done effectively until its habits are more widely known. He recommends that all wounds should, as far as possible, be covered with tar or some substance calculated to prevent the deposition of eggs ; also, probing the galleries with a wire and perforating the larva would be found effective. Soft soap dissolved in boiling water containing a little carbolic acid injected into the galleries by means of a syringe is said to dissolve the larva. Professor Kirk says a weak solution of caustic potash would prove equally effective. CHANGES AND LEMONS IN AUSTRALASIA. 475 FRUIT TRADE. The seasons in Australia, as stated before, being directly opposite to tlio.se in California, there is of course a strong demand for fruit in one country when most abundant in the other. The want of quick and fre- quent steam service between the two countries is the principal obstacle in the way of the development of the fruit trade; at least that is the case as far as the imports of American fruits into this country are concerned. There is only one steamer per month plying between the cities of Sau Francisco and Sydney and there is no direct steam com- munication between Melbourne and Sau Francisco, while no steam service exists between these Australian cities and New York or other cities on the Atlantic coast of the United States. The voyage from Sau Francisco to Sydney occupies twenty-five days. The revolution which has taken place in steam-ship construction within the last decade has rendered the vessels at present plying between the two ports obsolete, so far as cool storage accommodation is con- cerned. The owners of the line, Messrs. Spreckels & Co., have, however, expressed their determination to replace the Alameda, Mariposa, and Zcalandia by vessels of the most modern build. When this is accom- plished, as a natural result the fruit will always be in the best condition when it arrives. The weather, especially when crossing the equator, is extremely hot, and without cool chambers and other modern facilities for properly storing fruit it is hardly to be expected that it could make so long a transit without injury. At present the trade is small and is confined principally to the im- ports of fruits from California. The fruit export to San Francisco thus far has been only a few trial shipments. The truth is, the cost of get- ting the fruit from the country districts to Sydney is too great to induce the farmers even to bring it to market except in small quantities, much less to think of exporting it to America. The railway freights from the fruit-growing centers to Sydney are from 75 to 100 per cent, higher than in the United States. There is a strong agitation on the part of the public press and people to have these high charges reduced. G. W. GRIFFIN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Sydney, N. 8. W ., January 21, 1890. 476 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. FIJI. Very few oranges are grown, and those only by occasional planters, who plant a few trees for their own use j no particular variety is sought after. The tree is grown as much for the shade it affords as for the fruit it bears. Lemons are not cultivated. There is a lemon or citron that grows wild in the bush, but as yet is not considered of importance enough for export. It is a prolific bearer, and grows abundantly everywhere in this colony. Were it properly developed by scientific cultivation, I think it would prove a valuable addition to the varieties grown in our own country. ANDREWS A. ST. JOHN, Commercial Agent. UNITED STATES COMMERCIAL AGENCY, Levuka, January 10, 1890. CONTINENT OF EUROPE. FRANCE. REPORT BY CONSUL BRADLEY, OF NICE. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN THE RIVIERA. Varieties. — Among the hundred and over varieties of citrus grown on the Riviera, it is impossible to specify any one or two as most profitable. The oranges are not only exported as fruit, but orange-flower water is distilled from large quantities of their flowers (one firm alone using 700,000 pounds of flowers). Tons are candied green. Neroli, so much used by the perfumer, is extracted from other varieties, and from the dried peel cura^oa is manufactured. From recommendations given I have 'selected eight varieties of oranges as among the most useful. ORANGES. Orange franc (Citrus aurantium vulgare). — Stem straight and vigor- ous, bark gray, head hemispheric, whose branches, numerous and con- fused, are covered with thorns. The young sprouts are angulous and of tender green color. The lower leaves thick, oVal, lightly notched, light green ; upper leaves oblong, darker green, glossy, entire, on along stem, less winged than the under leaves. Flowers axillary and terminal, white petals, ovary often striated at the base. Fruits, average size, rounded, globulous, sometimes slightly concave at top, where the place that the style occupied is always apparent. The stem end frequently shows the striae noticed in the ovary. Skin golden yellow, slightly rough, and cov- ered with vesicles. The pulp is divided into eight or ten compartments, full of large vesicles nearly as yellow as the skin, which hold a juice abundant, palatable, and sweet. Seeds large, oblong, unequal, each inclosing three or four perfect germs. The tree grows here to be 24 feet high, its head, say, 27 feet in circumference; in warmer climates a little larger. It commences bearing at eighteen or twenty years of age. The fruit grows sweeter as the tree grows older. It ripens early and resists cold better than any other variety ; not much cultivated on account of slow growth, and because the fruit is much of it spoiled for transportation by the thorns, but the stocks are much used for grafts of other varieties. 477 478 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Orange de Nice (Citrus aurantium niceme). — Differs but slightly from the above ; it is a favorite because of the keeping qualities of the fruit, and the readiness with which a graft from it starts. Orange de Malte (Citrus aurantium Melitense). — Skin dark yellow, shading into red ; the pulp may be red in part or wholly. It is consid- ered to be a hybrid between the Franc and some East Indian species. Orange a pulp rouge (Citrus aurantium Hierochunticum). — The skin of this orange is always yellow, never red, but the pulp is dark red. This variety differs little from the preceding in appearance and form. Mandarin (Citrus madurensis or Citrus deliciosa) — Already well known in California. Here it is one of the hardiest varieties. Orange bigaradier Franc (Citrus bigaradia) — Root long, branchy, bearded, light colored outside, yellowish within. Trunk straight, gray, ish, branches bushy, covered with long greenish thorns. Young sprouts are pale green, angulous, like most of the genus; leaves elliptic or ob- long, narrow, acuminate, lightly notched in the upper part, wavy, a tine green, and carried on stems more or less winged. Flowers in clusters, have calix angulous, five petals, taste slightly bitter, from thirty to thirty-five stamens partly adherent at the base. Ovary round or stri- ated, surmounted by a style, terminated by a tuberculous stigma. The fruit is of average size, round or slightly elongated, smooth or some- times rough, flattened at the end, yellow to reddish orange color. The peel is bitter, very fragrant, clinging to the pulp, which is yellow and divided into twelve or fourteen parts ; its juice is not very palatable, bitter acid taste. The seeds are oblong, sharp, and yellow. The tree grows here to the height of about 27 feet ; flowers in May and some- times in autumn ; fruit ripens slowly. Neroli is distilled from its flowers, and from its dried peel the liquor cura9oa is made. Orange de Chine, bigaradier, or Chinois (Citrus bigaradia sinensis). — A valuable dwarf variety, about 12 feet high ; resists the cold well. The orange is used for preserves or candied fruit and a water is distilled from its flowers. Bergamotier ordinaire (Citrus Bergamia vulgaris). — The bergamotier is naturally lofty, plenty of branches, but the branches are so brittle that the head of the tree is rarely well-filled out or regular. Its leaves 'are oval, oblong, some pointed, others obtuse, average size, green, th^ lower surface whiter than any other orange leaf, leaf stems long and winged. Flower white, small, fragrant, scattered or united in clusters, borne on very short stems. Fruit good sized, usually pyramidal, rarely round, yellow, smooth, glossy. It has an agreeable fragrance peculiar to itself, peel thin, 'pulp yellowish green. This variety is chiefly valuable for the essential oil obtained from its flowers and peel. LEMONS. Lemons being generally seedlings, a very large number of varieties are produced, which even proprietors of orchards do not try to distin- guish. Twenty or thirty varieties have been classified. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN THE RIVIERA 479 The following are said to be among the most valuable: Lemonier ordinaire (Citrus limonum) vulture ; lemonier imperial (Citrus limonum) imperial; lemonier bignette (Citrus limonum) bignetta ; lemonier per- • ette spatafore (Citrus limonum) peretta spatafora. This last excellent in damp situations. The lemons thrive only in the sheltered nooks within a mile or two of the sea, where every deep warm valley has its small orchard ripening, not only from the direct rays of the sun, but from the warmth thrown back by the cliffs around them. The oranges more hardy can be found 10 miles from the coast among the mountains as high as 200 or 300 yards above the sea. Our only level land is in small valleys among the Alpes Maritimes which cover all this district. It is generally noted that this fruit ripens earlier on hill-sides where water can be brought to it. The soil best adapted to them here is a silico-argilaceous or argilo- calcareous soil, the latter, when not too damp, but any good mixed soil seems to answer, as they are not difficult. In regard to temperature M. J. Tesseare gives observations taken by him covering twenty years. The minimum during that time being 26°, maximum 92.5, average 60° Fahrenheit in the shade. These observations were taken three times daily, sunrise, 2 p. m., and at sunset. In the sun at 2 p. m., the thermometer marked minimum 99°, maximum 135°.5, averaging 112.1. Lowest night temperature 26°, highest 79°. There are but few sultry days. During the twenty years there were 4,385 days almost or entirely cloudless, 1,547 cloudy days, 1,348 days more or less rainy, 28 days without observation. This would give in one year 219 sunny days, 77 cloudy, 67 rainy. The hygrometer of Saussure gives minimum of 23, maximum 77, .average C1.4. For the five years 1870-'74, the minimum rain-fall was in 1874, 24.3 inches ; the average for the five years was 35.1 inches. The peculiarity of the rain- fall is the tropical intensity of each shower and its short duration ; so that while we have actually more rain than London, Eng- land, we have very much fewer rainy or cloudy days. During the long summer, from June to September, the trees are irrigated with water brought in canals from mountain streams, which is generally tempered by storing in large private tanks for some time before being applied, which it is at intervals of one or two weeks. This is done in summer, between sunset and sunrise ; if necessary in autumn it is done in the morning. Gardeners watch the leaves of the tree for indications of need of water. The orange needs less water than the lemon. The earth is worked over twice a year. In the spring after pruning, at least a foot deep, again in the autumn not quite so deep. The tool used for this work is always tined, as a blade might injure the smaller deep roots. It is considered desirable to cut away the roots which lie near the surface, as they are injured by becoming too dry and the tree suffers. The deeper growing roots are better for the tree to draw sus- tenance from, as they keep moist longer. Fertilizers are used for two definite purposes and at two different 480 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. epochs : First, to press the growth of the young tree with manure speedily decomposed, which will furnish strong nutriment at once to the roots, such as oil-meal cakes, guano, dried blood, stable manures. Second, for the support of the mature tree with manures of slower de- composition, such as horn shavings, bones, woolen rags, hair, hide, and even leather. These are placed around the tree as far from the trunk as the roots extend during the autumn, and covered with earth to the depth of a foot. The object aimed at in pruning is to bring the greatest surface pos- sible of the tree to direct action of air and light. The spherical form is considered best. To keep this form shoots are pinched off in June each year. In the early spring weak and dead wood, forgotten useless shoots, are cut out to let light and air in among the branches; a sharp knife must be used. Oranges are picked first when just beginning to turn yellow, in Oc- tober, for distant shipment, next in December for a nearer shipment when half yellow, finally in the spring when fully ripe for home mar- ket. They are sold by the thousand, the caisse or patronue. The best are wrapped in gray paper and packed 360 in a box, and called caisses flandrines. The second quality are packed in the same way, 500 to the box, and called simply caisse. The third quality packed the same way is called caisse de Menton. The fourth quality are called Patronnes de Magasin, and the fifth Patronne de barque. These latter are shipped by boat in bulk. Those poorer than the above five qualities have no commercial value, excepting for the peel, which is taken off and dried. Oranges as a rule grow sweeter with the age of the tree. Lemon trees blossom from the earliest spring to late fall, and even during the winter. From the few fertile flowers of late winter comes a large thick-skinned fruit with but little juice, called Testassa. The early spring flowers from which good fruit ripens in about six mouths or in October and November are the ones most depended on for a crop. These lemons are called here Primo Fiore or Maraviglia. The next flowers of May and June only ripen their fruit after ten months which are called Secundo Fiore or Granetta. These are generally inferior to the primo but if for any reason those fail, nature tries to make up for it by putting all the good qualities lost with primo^ into the secundo, The flowers of July and August mature the following April and produce the Verdame which is said to keep well for ship- ment. After the rain of September and October, a few flowers are fer- tile and give a coarse fruit called Septembrine. The fruit, carefully picked, is spread on straw, where the different commercial qualities are selected. They are wrapped in absorbent paper and packed according to size and given the following commercial names : Caisse Flandrine, 400 of the best size in a box ; Caisse Lyon- naise, 500 in a box, and Petites Caisses, where three boxes hold 1,000 of the smaller ones. The lemons of the first class in size must be at Least 55 millimeters in diameter. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN THE RIVIERA. 481 The plants are propagated by seed, grafting, cuttings, and layering, principally by the two first methods. When planted in the orchard the distance apart is modified, first, by the kind of culture whether in large orchards, when other plants are to be cultivated between the rows and nature allowed to take its course, or in small gardens, where a system of forcing is used ; second, the quality of the soil, and, finally, the form m which they are to be set out, whether in one row, in squares, etc. In a general way from 15 to 24 feet is near enough for trees of standard size. The trees begin to bear flowers and fruit at five years, give a reason- able crop at fifteen, but increase in productiveness up to forty years. INSECT PESTS. The following insects are hurtful to both orange and lemon trees, but as the lemon tree is always in flower and is more frequently watered, the Lepidoptera in the larva state is more injurious to it than to the orange : Coccides. — Dactylopius citri (BoisDuval). — This insect with soft tegu- ment is very common on both orange and lemon trees of the Riviera. Its body is a red brown; about it are numerous cottony appendices, 17 on each side; at the end of the abdomen are two much longer than the others. The insect is entirely covered with white dust. Its length is 0.^03 to O.m004, breadth O.m002. The antenna of the female are 8- jointed. The tarsis is half the length of the tibia ; the thread-like feet are very long. Web pores are plenty ; the genito-anal ring large, with 6 bristles ; the larva has antenna} 6-jointed ; the abdominal web pores are less numerous than in the perfect insect. The male is long, brown on head and thorax, abdomen yellowish ; the feet and antennae darker in color ; these latter have 10 articulations. Thorax narrow ; elytron very long, grayish white ; abdomen very long, with web pores on the edges ; sexual organs tuberculous in form, quite large, terminated in a rounded point ; feet long ; tarsis longer than the thighs. This insect, a veritable scourge, forms upon the young fruit and leaves cottony and sticky heaps, contrasting strongly by its whiteness with the color of the fruit and the black layer of the " Morphe'e," which al- ways surrounds them. Breaking off these living heaps, some of the insects will be crushed, yielding a reddish liquid; in them will be found insects in different stages of development, and besides this the larv® of the coccinella and the caterpillar of a little Lepidoptera, the EpUestia gnidiella. The Dactylopius citri seeks sheltered spots where the trees, too closely planted, lack air and light. It hurts the growth of the trees by stop- ping the leaf pores. It unites with the Lecanides and the Aphides to propagate " Miellat" and "Morphe"e." Aspidiotus limonii (Signoret). — This Coccus with hard tegument, 482 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. which is found particularly upon the young branches, has, according to M. Signoret, the lobes at the abdominal extremity detached and appar- ent and the finabriate scales long ; the last abdominal segment is elon- gated. The shell of the adult female is spherical, yellowish white in color, with internal organs yellow, and a large quantity of eggs. The shell of the male is more elongated. Raising the shell of the mother when the little ones are being hatched, numerous small white larvae running quite fast among the eggs, yet unopened, can be seen. These resemble the Phylloxera, excepting in color. The male is quite com- mon, his head is notched in front, the antennae are long, thorax rounded and broad. Lecanium flesperidum (Auctorum). — This insect is clothed with a solid cuirass. It is elongated in form ; its color a yellow brown. It adheres firmly to the leaves and is difficult to distinguish from them. Its an- tenna have six articulations, legs slender, claws very long, genito anal ring surrounded by six bristles. Larvae long, with six articulations in each of antennae. The male has not been described. Examinations of the female show embryo but no eggs, which gives rise to suggestion that she may be viviparous. Lecanium olece (Bernard). — Brown, with deep body and two raised transverse lines on the back, almost heart-shaped ; the antennae have eight articulations; yellow at first, they become black. The female lays her eggs and shelters them under herself in great quantities. The methods in use by the best gardeners for the destruction of this form of pest is to powder the tree with a mixture of sulphur and plas- ter from April, and to brush trunks, branches, and fruit during the win- ter. Washing with waters, saline, alkaline, or acid, which might harm the plant, are given up ; syringing with medicinal liquids is also dis- couraged. Carbolic acid, turpentine, or petroleum dilutions are pre- ferred for brushing on, the latter as the cheapest with water in propor- tions of 1 to 30. These should be applied at night in spring. It is also recommended to wash the trunk with lime water and to cut off* and burn on the spot at night the small branches too much attacked to be cured. Another author advises the use of nitrobenzine, but the essen- tial things seem to be plenty of light and air through and among the trees, and, above all, protection from wild birds. Lepidoptera. — Acrolepea citri (Millere). — Tincidae described bV Mil- liere and Eangouet. The female probably lays her eggs, which are round and of a bright yellow color, near the bud. The young larva soon hatches; it is at first to the naked eye a yellowish white, and retains this color some time : at the moment of its final transformation, when it is largest, its body is yellowish green in color, which is particularly noticeable in the hollow of each ring and on the under parts. The head, dark brown, has antennae, or horns. The eyes are very apparent. A marked distinction between this insect and the Prays-oleellus is that the latter has upon the first thoracic ring two bright black spots, which are ORANGES AND LEMONS IN THE RIVIERA. 483 wanting in the Acrolepea citri, whose first ring is simply a darker shade. The body of the larva is a yellowish -green color, and has six brown feet armed with little claws darker brown. The false feet to the number of eight are placed under the sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth ring. They are provided with an apparatus with short filaments, which allows them to adhere or cling strongly to any object. The last abdominal segment is conical and notched at the anal extremity ; it is provided with the same apparatus as the false feet, commencing with the first thoracic ring; the covering is delicately marbled with a reddish color. Pre- served in alcohol the larva, which has lost its greenish tints, becorres yellow, the back a darker shade, the eyes and mandible's are very black. Very lively, it burrows in the bud whose covering it has pierced, and leaves a round hole very apparent. Once settled in the bud it com- mences by devouring the base of the stamens, then it attacks the em- bryo of the fruit. It is found sometimes at the bottom of the calyx en- veloping the base of the fruit, still very small, with its rings, trying to get into it; moving from place to place, it emits thread, which binds the stamens together and encloses its excrements. When the flower at- tacked opens, the stamens are seen to be upset and the young fruity pierced at several points, soon blackens and dries up, even before it is as large as a grain of wheat. If the larva is disturbed, it quickly leaves the inside of the flower and crawls about the outside of it ; then if there seems to be danger it tries to reach another branch or the ground, drop- ping down by the thread spun from itself, by which it climbs up again when the danger seems past, absorbing the thread into itself as it goes up. The larva being fully developed, it prepares to spin its cocoon in the calyx of the flower. The cocoon is a gray-brown, meshes so loose that the phases of trans- formation can be easily followed ; once really shut in, the caterpillar shrinks rapidly. Larvae commencing their cocoons 20th and 21st of September yielded a butterfly the 26th or 27th following. Its sleep then lasts but six or seven days. At first the little chrysalis, in its co- coon, is a greenish color on its under parts, the upper parts, and a line upon its front red. After this the green and red fade and it becomes a light brown, verging toward green, which darkens more and more. At its birth the butterfly is almost black ; it is only later that it pales and the varied designs appear upon its dress. It is motionless, antennas stuck to its body, legs drawn up under it, looking like a small black spindle ; when well dried it straightens its antennae, which it carries pointing forward, and always in motion. It raises its head, stretches out its legs, and makes its toilet ; at the slightest alarm it changes its place with a jerky little flight. The designs on the wings of these butterflies vary much and sometimes disappear completely to give place to a gen- eral mouse-gray color, more or less silvery. A general description of a good specimen of this insect would be as follows : 484 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The body mouse-gray, under part silvery ; head the same color, eyes are large, the dark antennae half the length of the body. Examining with care, a black line forming a half crescent is apparent, at the commencement of the prothorax, near the center of the folded wings, or in the front third ; a second black spot appears resembling the letter A, with top flattened and lacking the transverse bar. The top points toward the head of the insect, the sides are on the two wings. Further back is a third black spot similar to the second, bat very much fainter, and the final point of the wings, a darker gray than the rest, makes a last noticeable spot. The specks on the wings are too small to be called spo'ts. The three pairs of legs are of different lengths; the second pair has one spur, the third has two. In color they are gray, with black rings. I have only studied these insects during the blossoming season of August. Professor Penzig, who has made longer studies of them, says that there are three generations in each year ; the first in April and May, the second in August, and the third in October and Novem- ber 5 according to him the winter is passed as an egg from this last generation. The first generation in the spring from these eggs is not strong or prolific, and not so harmful. The August generation is the most mischievous. They were first noted as hurtful in Corsica, later in Sicily by M. Panizzi. The methods of destruction used against this insect and the next two are to pick up and burn the flowers attacked and to gather all grass and weeds growing near the trees, dry them and burn them in heaps under the trees at night-fall. A great many butter- flies attracted by the light are destroyed, besides other forms of insect life, under the burning heaps. Epliestia guidiella (MilUere). — A Phycide described by M. Milliere, of Cannes, who gave it this name because he first found it upon a Daphne gnedium, a shrub quite common on the hills. It seems to be polypha- gous, however, as it is found on many plants; besides this they are found under the whitish, sticky, cottony heaps deposited on fruit and leaves by the Dactylopius citri. It has the form but is a little larger than the Acrolepia. It differs from the latter in color, being blackish, with a band of darker shade on each side, dotted or marbled. The larva is hairy ; there are hairs even around its eyes. Its head and first thoracic ring are a brighter color. Placed in alcohol it is a lighter shade, becoming a chestnut, the band on the sides very marked. It is very lively, seems to flee the light and is longer in preparing for its transformation than the Acrolepia. It first makes a loose shelter, in which it spins a cocoon impenetrable and whiter than that of the other, and while longer in preparing the co- coon, it is at the same time longer in changing from chrysalis to but- terfly, nine days instead of six. The butterfly is larger and a dark gray. Its wings, instead of being folded in a spindle-shape, are folded more in the shape of an acute-angled triangle. The body is mouse- ORANGES AND LEMONS IN THE RIVIERA, 485 gray beneath, a little darker above, the abdomen is well furnished with hairs, tin* under part of the wings is a brilliant ash-gray. The upper wings are fringed only at their extremity and on the inner side. Their general shade is lees of wine, with metallic luster, two light de signs cross them. When its wings are spread this color is brighter, but the design fades and nearly disappears if the insect is long on the wing. The under wings have a darker shade above than below, their fringe is long, especially the outer edge, a dark lineseparates the fringe from the rest of the wing. The legs are an even gray, something the shade of the under part of body and wings; with wings spread the Kphestia gnidiella measures about Om.015, while the Acrolepia citri measures but Om.010 or ()m.012. Professor Penzig thinks it has but two generations. The discovery of the larvas of these insects in the heaps made by the cocei raises the question, yet unsettled, whether they feed upon the latter, and so are not wholly harmful. Eup ithccia pumUaia (H. G.). — A geometride larger than the Ephestia. As the butterfly varies in its markings so the Iarva3 of this insect vary so much as to make detailed description difficult Its body is cylindri- cal; six true legs appear, but those on the tenth ring and on the twelfth and last are false. The body is yellow-green, with black lines on the sides. In the middle of the back a long tndinal line from which, on each ring, a line runs at right angles down the sides; the body is covered with thinly-scattered hairs. The chrysalis, yellow-brown, is quite slender. The specimens of the butterfly that I have laised are a grey-yellow color, brighter beneath than above. The eyes are large and greenish. The under wings are marbled, with little irregular blackish spots. They are notched in the back part and have a darker line serving as base to the fringe. The upper wings, larger and darker, have the same dark line. On their field there are, besides the spots which the under wing bears, designs lighter and darker. The diptera are represented by one small fly, in color blue, striped with yellow, which lives in its larva state in the pulps of the oranges. It is the cerutitis hispanica (B). M. Peragallo could find nothing more detailed than this fact noted by Colonel Goureau. Of coleoptera, the curculio-otior-hynchus meridionalis, which attacks the young shoots of the olive, is equally fond of the orange tree, and all lemons which fall on the ground in damp places are pretty sure to ccntain more or less of the dark yellow carpophilus mntilatus, and to show the small, round hole in its skin by which entrance was effected. To obtain a specimen, it is only necessary to squeeze the lemon, and the carpophilus comes out with the juice, but not wet by it. The Morphee or Fumagine. — After years of study and discussion of this disease, which gives the leaves of a grove the appearance of being coated with soot, scientists have united in the belief, well founded, that it is due to the liquid excrement of one ol the cocci in which germs of 486 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. mushrooms find congenial soil for growth and do grow very rapidly. To prove the power of this insect to eject to some distance its excre- ment, M. Peragallo confined in a glass insect-case several live speci- mens of the cocus on orange tree leaves already affected with fumagiue. Within twenty-four hours the glass was sprinkled with tiny drops of a viscous liquid, white and transparent, which had evidently been pro- duced by the insects, and which were soon covered with fumagine from germs in the air. For its cure, the abbe" Loquez says : Havevno excess of humidity, plant ftirther apart, give the trees air, lot them grow tall, be moderate with irrigation — water gives fruit but is liable to injure the tree — finally, burn the infected branches. M. Riviere suggests lime-water washes, fumigating with tobacco, washing and brushing the leaves, branches, and fruit. Dr. Signorel adds hanging wisps of straw soaked in coal-tar under the trees. At Mentone petroleum and vinegar-water are both used as washes. Two methods are given in the record of the Entomological Society of France for 1883 ; the first from Greece, the second from Sicily : (1) Prune well and syringe the trees with the following mixture : Eight parts water with one each of petroleum and quick lime finely powdered. (2) Powder the trees while damp with dew with fresh or uu leached wood ashes. To sum up, keep the trees healthy, do not plant in low places or where th<-re is much fog, cut off sickly branches, and destroy by hand as many insects as possible. u Gum " shows great weakness and probable death of the branch on which it appears ; it is considered to be a cryptogamic disease. M. Peragallo gives the following insects which seem to be friends of the orange and lemon trees : Syrphus hyalinatus (de Fallen). — From larvae found at Mentone and Eoqueburue, in whose neighborhood were quantities of the larvae of Acrolepia citri, black and dried, were developed in his breeding cases a diptera already known as destructive to the coccide, identified as the Syrphus by alinatus (de Fallen). This insect is considered by M. Peragallo as one of the most useful parasites of the lemon trees, living as it does on different kinds of insects hurtful to the tree and being quite common in some sections. He has found also in the chrysalides of Microlepidoptera larvae which gave birth to tiny Hymenoptera as yet unnamed, and in one case records the birth of a Hemerobius chrysops from the chrysalis of a Eupithecia pumilata; these latter cases being more truly in the nature of parasites than the Syrphus hyalinatus. ACKNOWLEDGMENT. Besides personal observation I am indebted to the following works for information on the subject. In some cases, particularly concerning the insects, I have made free translations : ORANGES AND LKMONS IN TIIK RIVIERA. 4*7 Histoire et Culture des Oranges. A. Risso, A. Poiteau, revised by M. A. du Breuil. Nice pratique, etc., A. La Costa. Lea Primes d'honneur. Ministtre de 1' Agriculture. Statistique Agricole. Ministere de 1'Agriculture. Arbres, etc., dans la region comprise entre Cannes et Menton. F. Forckel, li««ad garduer at Monte Carlo. K i udos sur les Insectes nuisibles a PAgriculburo. M. A. Peragallo. M. (ros. Chief of the Bureau of Agriculture for the Department. List of oranges and lemons grown on the Riviera. Citrus Aiiruntiuw — Citrus Bigaradia — Pomum Adami. Vulgare, Corniculata, Citrus PompelmoB — Sineuse, Sulcata, Decumanus, Depressum, Fetifera, Vulgaris, . Pyrainidale, Canaliculata, Crispatus, Ilicifolium, Cyathifera, Chadock, Crispum, Caliculata, Ragemosus. Pi ri forme, Crispifolia, Citrus Lumia — Latifolium, Multiflora, Dominica. Genuense, Violacea, Rhegiua. Duplex, Duplex, Conica. Nicense, Spatafora, Ollulsb formis. Microcarpum, Marnillata, Valentina. Miniitissimum, Longifolia, Gallitia. Gibbosum, Volcameriana, Dulcis. Corniculatum, Racemosa, Saccharina. Melitanse, Neapolitans, Aurantiaca. Ilierochnnticum , Asperma, Rubescens, Balearicnm, Itan, Limeta. Sigillatum, Sallesiana, Citrus Limonum — Mammifernm, Macrocarpa, Sylvaticum, Limetiforme, Hispanica, Incomparabile, Oblongum, Florentina, Tenue, Ellipticum, Coronata, Striatum, Olivo3forme, Glaberrima, Pusillnm, Torulosum, Dulcis, Calabrinum, Carnosum, Salicifolia, Caly, Rugosum, Simensis, Bignetta, Ruginosum, Myrtifolia, Bignetta magua, Pomum Adami Parisio- Fasciata, Hardouium, rum, Bizarria. Rosolinum, Nobile, Citrus Bergamia — Aspermum, Lougifolium, Vnlgaris, Ponzinnm, Multiflorum, Torulosa, Duplex, Angnstifolium, Parva, Ligusticum, Tardum, Mellarosa, Rosenm, Aspermum, Mellarosa Plena. Barbadorus, Grassense, Citrus Limetta — Neapolitanum, Couiferum, Vulgaris, Globosum, Imbigum, Parva, Parvum, Lusitanicum, Acris, Hispanicum, Otaitense, Hispanica, Balotiuum, Mutabile, Romana, Mellarosa. Lunatum, Tuberculosa, Peretta, Loursiro. Auraria, Peretta Spatafora, 156A 7 488 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. List of oranges and lemons grown on the Bivicra — Continued. CiiruH Limonum— Continued. Sancti Reini, Cornuta, Peretta Striata, Nicense, Salodiana, Peretta Florentina, Paradisi, Plena, Peretta Longa, Ferrari, Dnlcis, Vulgaris, Amalphitaiinin, Florentina, Ceriescura, Chalcedonicuin, Elougata, Cajetanuni, Bimamillatuin, Rugosa, Fusiforme, Digitatum. Roniana, Oblongum, Citrus Medica — Sulcata, Canaliculatum, Vulgaris, Costata, Iruperiale, Cucurbitiua, Glabra, Lauras, Tuberosa, Siinoniformis, Racemosum, Maxima, Parvra. Rheginum, WILLIAM HARRISON BRADLEY, • Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Nice, May 5, 1890. CORSICA.* REPORT EY CONSULAR AGENT DAMIANI. Situation. — Trees of the orange species thrive in Corsica if cultivated at an altitude of 200 to 400 meters above the sea-level ; below that they are dwarfed in their growth, and above 400 metervs they are affected by the cold. The tree requires a deep, fertile, and pervious soil, irriga- tion during the heat of summer, and shelter from high winds. Damp and compact soil does not suit 5 but it thrives best in a clayey siliceous clay limestone, or a pervious, siliceous, clayey soil. On a damp soil the roots are soon injured. The ground must not only be wholesome and pervious to water, but it must also be rich in mold. Cultivation. — Both the orange and lemon trees require much atten- tion if they are to yield abundant fruit every year. If planted on ground exposed to the north wind, they must be sheltered by triple rows of the pyramidal Cyprus or the Eucalyptus globulus. Twice a year, in spring and autumn, the ground at the foot of the tree is dug up, and in Sep- tember and October, or in February and March, well manured with all kinds of manure, according to the season; generally, before winter, veg- etable manure, more or less decomposed, and the refuse of farms is used. Pruning. — The cutting or pruning does not differ from that of other fruit trees. It is done at the end of the winter when it is dry ; the top is rounded ami the inside is carefully exposed to the influences of the sun and air. Climatic influence. — The orange tree can not support cold beyond 5° or 0° centigrade below zero. The lemon is even more delicate and will only * Translated at the Marseilles CQLtuilatc. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN CORSICA AND MARSEILLES. 489 thrive in localities where the thermometer does not fall below li° or 3° centigrade. It must be planted on hills exposed to the south and well sheltered against north and northeast winds by elevations or artificial means. It must be irrigated by running water, by trenches, every four- teen or twenty days and must be placed in holes having 1 meter or l..'>() centimeters square in depth, or the ground must be dug to a depth nf IK) centimeters, which is preferable. The trees must be 5 or 7 meters distant from one another, according to the fertility of the soil. Insect pests. — The lemon is also liable to be injured by winter frosts, ityjaunisse or chlorose, or by excessive humidity. It is also attacked by kermes or the white louse (Dorthesia citris), the cochineal (Cocus citris), and byfumagine. Thejaunisse and decay of the roots is arrested by draining the ground, the multiplication of insects and fumagine is stopped by syringing the branches and leaves with hyposulphate of lime in March and April. Maturity. — The lemon and orange begin to bear fruit the third year after grafting, but do not produce abundantly till the fourth or fifth year. They are generally best from the ninth to the twelfth year and yield on the average 3,000 fruit. The lemon tree yields even more. The fruit is gathered with much care and after the disappear- ance of the dew. They are packed in cases and in rows, after being wrapped in thin paper. Each case contains about 500 or 380 to 400 oranges. Varieties. — The kinds cultivated in this locality are — Oranges: The Sweet Fruit of Brazil (Brasiliculis), the Blood Eed (Hiero chuntisum), the Sweet Portugal (Lusitanirum), the Sweet Malta (Meliteuse), the Otaite (Otaiteuse), and the Mandarins (Nobilis.) . Lemons: Bignette of Genoa, the most productive; Biguette of Va- lence, without pippins (Citrus aspernum); Bignette of Spain (G. his- l>anium)-j Bignette of Malta (G. melitcuse) ; Bignette of Vulgare (ordi- naire). * SIMON DAMIANI, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Bastia, February 6, 1890. MARSEILLES. REPORT BY CONSUL TRAIL. In this consular district orange and lemon trees are only cultivated to any extent in Corsica. The climate in the region around Marseilles itself is not temperate enough for these two trees. Up till about thirty years ago there were plantations still in the plains of Toulon and Hyeres, but even these have long since been converted into market gardens. 490 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. They are now only to be found towards the eastern boundary, and here only chiefly orange trees that are cultivated more for their blossom than for their fruit, orange blossom being used in large quantities in the dis- tilleries in Grasse, Cannes, Nice, and other centers of the perfumery industry. CHARLES B. TRAIL, Consul. MARSEILLES, April 30, 1890. MENTONE. REPORT SI CONSULAR AGENT CLERIOT. Varieties. — The names of the best qualities are (1) Fleurs, (2) C6- riesche, (3) Granetti, (4) Verdame. Situation. — There is not any special situation for those qualities; they are corresponding to the four blossomings of the tree. Orange and lemon trees grow near the sea as well as upon the hills, but exposition to the sun is to be preferred ; so also is hilly ground when there is water, but level ground is good too. Soil. — Calcareous and permeable soil is best. Climatic influence. — A mild and temperate climate has a great influ- ence on the growth of the trees. Temperature. — They grow well in a high temperature, 32° centigrade; they freeze under 3° centigrade. Cold and damp nights are injurious ; those warm and with an ordinary atmosphere are favorable. Rain-fall. — In Mentone the rain is generally calculated at about 85 cubic centimeters per year. Spring and autumn rains are the best. Irrigation. — One irrigates in summer from June 21 until August 30 with water gathered in the hills and kept for the purpose ; alter the i blossoming and three times during the summer at intervals of a month, 500 liters every time. . ^ Cultivation. — The orchards are plowed twice a year. Pruning. — The trees must be pruned every year and according to the plantation. Picking and curing. — Lemons are gathered in Mentone four .times a year; oranges twice, January to April. Lemons and oranges must be firm and not too ripe when they have to be exported. Planting and propagating. — The trees are planted at a distance of 5 or 0 yards to have a regular plantation. Lemon trees are propagated by grafts on bigaradiers or bitter lemon trees. Orange trees from seeds are better but less resistant. Maturity. — The trees are grafted when four years old j they do not give a very good gathering before being fifteen years old. Insect pests. — The morphe"e and the fumee are the two diseases of the orange and lemon trees ; .the former is an insect, the latter a mush- OKANGKS AND LEMONS IN CARRARA. -l!)l room ; no remedy has yet been found. All birds destroy the injurious insects. Fertilizers. — Farm manure is the bent; it lasts two years. Rags, horn scrapings, and sesamum are also used. The manure is placed at the foot of the tree in November; 100 kilos of dung, 30 kilos of rags, 15 kilos of sesamum or horn scrapings ; the quantity of manure is accord- ing to the strength of the trees. AUGE CLERICY, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Mentone, May 15, 1890. ITALY. CARRARA. REPORT BY CONSUL RIOE. [From statistics supplied by the consular agent at Carrara.] ORANGES AND LEMONS IN CARRARA. Varieties. — There is no special nomenclature for the oranges grown within this district; the only ones differing from the common ones are the red ones called sanguigni. The mandarins and citrons are raised but on a limited scale. The lemons grown within this district are divided into two classes — the sweet lemons with the thick rind, and the bitter ones with a thin one ; the latter are much smaller, but contain more juice and are better for preserving, therefore more in demand. Situation. — Lemons and oranges are produced, but not extensively ; generally cultivated about 4 kilometers from the sea, with about 50 to 100 meters elevation, the most preferable position being one with a southern warm aspect, but bearing in mind that there is always an undersoil of gravel. Climate.— The maximum temperature is 30 degrees centigrade, mini- mum, .05. Medium annual fall of rain, 395 millimeters, the greater part of which falls durirg the months of October, November, December, and January. Irrigation. — The irrigation is done two or three times a year, from July to September, that is, during the ripening of the first crop of lem- ons and when the second crop is in blossom. Fertilizers. — The plants are manured and hoed once a year, usually during the winter. The manures used are generally stable manures, and in the spring they are also enriched with liquid sewage. Pruning. — The plants are pruned almost to the very top every two years. Picking. — Lemons are gathered at various turns during the year and 402 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES on an average every three months. Oranges are gathered daring the months of December and January. After gathering they are placed in baskets and sent to the different markets in Tuscany either by rail or by wagon ; none are exported. Propagation. — Plants are propagated from the seed of the bitter oranges or lemons, and are after grafted by the usual process. For the oranges the sweet seed is preferred, it giving finer plants, bearing better fruit; these, however, bear much later and are more liable to be attacked by the disease called "gommosi" or "gummy." Maturity. — The plants bear fruit when about seven to ten years old and live for many years — some plants have record of one hundred years. Insect pests. — The only insect which damages the orange plant is a sort of black ant, which breeds an insect that sucks the juice of the tender sprigs, thereby impoverishing the parent plant. WILLIAM T. RICE, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Consul. Leghorn, May 23, 1890. GENOA. REPORT BY CONSUL FLETCHER. [Reprinted from Consular Reports No. 41^.] ORANGES AND LEMONS. The genus Citrus for economical cultivation is divided into three classes — the orange, citron, and lemon. Varieties. — The varieties of oranges generally cultivated in this prov- ince are : (1) Citrus Bigaradia dulcis, or sweet orange. (2) The Melangolo of China, or Citrus Bigarradia cenensis. (3) Citrus deliciosa, or Mandarin orange, aromatic and saccharine. Two kinds of citron are cultivated : A, Citrus medica rugosa, wrinkled fruit, very good candied or other- wise preserved. B. Citrus medica cedrato, a very precious and aromatic fruit, the shell of which is also candied. 4 The following are the varieties of lemon raised here : A. Citrus limonum j a lemon very good for its acid and medicinal virtues. B. Citrus limonum tenno, a lemon of gentle rind, fruit rich in acid, but too tender to stand transportation. C. Citrus limonum oblongum, an oblong lemon, considered very val- uable on account of the quantity of acid it contains. These three varieties are ranked as the best, and therefore are cul- tivated the most in this vicinity. Productive age. — Sharp fruit trees gives full crops when about, say, from sixteen to twenty years old, and they keep yielding excellent crops ORANGES AND LKMOXS IN GENOA. 493 for many years afterwards. It is not often that these varieties become very old, say, not over one hundred years. The foliage expands to a . remarkable degree, and an average plant will usually produce 5,000 fruit per annum ; especially can this be said of the lemon tree. Planting. — Before the malady gomma( gum) manifested itself it was pre- ferred to multiply the trees by burying the ends of shoots in the ground at pro per distance; these shoots soon took root, but now the seed of Melau- golo is planted, into which, when grown to a certain size, the qualities desired are grafted. The Melangolo tree up to the present time is in a very healthy state and forms a good trunk in which to graft all varieties required. Sharp fruit trees are planted at a distance of about 17 feet apart on flat land and from 13 to 14 feet apart on hill-sides. The shade of one tree on another is injurious to the blossoming of the latter, therefore care should be taken that fair space be given all tbe plants in order to have nature do its best for man. The average num- ber of trees in a hectare of land (or 2.471 acres) is 490, and with this number as a basis from which to calculate it gives a space of about 20 square meters for each tree. Situation of orchards. — Orange and lemon orchards in Liguria are all on the sea-coast. Flat and hilly lauds in orchard are alike protected by lofty mountains from northern wjnds. This state of affairs appears necessary ; the temperature must be constant, for even the slightest frost damages the lymph of the plant and juice of the fruit. Orange and lemon groves can be, and are, cultivated inland, but the tempera- ture in such places must not reach higher than 40° centigrade and not lower than 2°, or by Fahrenheit scale, 104° and 32°. Inland orchards usually do well around lakes on account of the constant climate. Groves are also to be seen on table-lands, but always on the south side of mount- ains ; in such localities the temperature is as given above. Sharp fruit trees need a damp soil, and if the land does not contain sufficient moist- ure it is impossible to obtain a good crop. On naturally dry soil, there- fore, water near by is of great value. Orchards in this province and in all Liguria are near the sea and pro- tected from the cold northern winds by mountains. Many small groves can be seen beside stone walls, to which the branches cling, particularly the lemon. The land throughout this province being so mountainous, it must be taken for granted that but few orchards can be seen on so- called flat lands. Cultivation. — Orange and lemon groves, on account of the irregular formation of the surrounding country, are necessarily small, and they are owned by about as many people. On account of this natural ab- ruptness and irregularity, added to the fact that the orchards are not large, it is the opinion of the owners that irrigation is too expensive. Further, the soil on which groves are planted is what the Italians term strong, and it is claimed for it that it retains moisture for a long time. Again, an idea prevails among the people that springs are of no great depth here, and consequently the water therefrom courses through the 494 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. earth, and at no great distance from the surface, and that such an ex- istence waters the roots without the aid of man. A happy belief! Certain it is, however, that at Nervi, a few miles along the coast from Genoa, orchards thrive with but little irrigation, and this state of af- fairs is noticed even in the dryest seasons. Unless groves have strong soil, as above mentioned, and are moistened by an unseen water-course, they will prove unprofitable if the owners do not nourish the dry roots as often as, say, once in eight days. In the first four or five years cul- tivation between the plants is possible, but when the tops of trees reach a certain expansion cultivation would seem impossible, or, at least, im- probable. Produce and expense. — When the tree reaches between the ages of fifteen and twenty years each 4one is expected to yield abundant fruit, the orange from 400 to 600, and the lemon from 600 to 1,000. On strong soil and with proper care as the orchards advance in years it is said that a lemon tree will yield from 3,000 to 5,000 fruit per year. The ground is manured like unto the olive groves, some kind of compost, etc. The expense is estimated as about the same, namely, $05 per hectare (2.471 acres) per annum. SUMMARY. Oranges and lemons are not raised in such quantities in this consular district as to admit of large exportation, but the trade in olive oil is a big item. The following table is copied from advanced sheets of what is de- signed as an accurate report of the importation and exportation of olive oil, oranges, and lemons for the year 1883, to be soon issued by the chamber of commerce of this city. EXPORTS OF LEMONS AND ORANGES. La Plata States 39 102 France .. 32 532 England . ....... . . 8 750 EffVDt 4 577 Total 84 961 IMPORTS OP LEMONS AND ORANGES. i France 6,878 Tripoli and other African ports 66, 155 Kgypt , 1,830 Total 74,863 Total exports over over imports 10,098 JAMES FLETCHER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Genoa, Italy, May 1, 1884. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN MESSINA. 495 MESSINA. REPORT BY COUNSEL JONES. ORANGES AND LEMONS. Varieties.- -Best variety for profit, the citrus lusitanicum (orange) ; citrus lusioniutn and citrus fimforme lemon. Other choice varieties worthy of culture and for profit are the citrus bergamia (bergamot) ; cit- rus deliciosa (mandarin) ; citrus luiretta. There are some thirty other varieties of less note. Location.— The finest lemon-groves are in the neighborhood of Briga, Pezzuolo, Giampilieri, Santo Stefano, Saponara, Eometta. The finest orange groves at Francavilla and Rouella, in the valley of the Alcan- tara. Distance from sea. — Lemon trees do better nearer the sea than orange trees ; they thrive at from J to 2 miles from the shore ; orange trees from 2 to 6 miles. Elevation. — The greatest elevation at which lemon trees do well is 1,500 feet. Orange trees do well at 2,700 feet above sea-level. A southern exposure is best; but it requires the most water. A northern exposure is generally too cold. An eastern exposure exposes the trees to April frosts. A western exposure is always damp. The lemon, like the vine, delights in hill-sides, facing south. Plains, as well as hill- sides, are well suited to the orange. Soil, etc. — In this district the finest lemon groves are on argillo-calca- reous soil of the Tertiary period, and on calcareo-argillaceous soil of the Quaternary period. These two soils are the best for both oranges and lemons. Sandy soil is not well adapted to orange and lemon cult- ure, as it is too thirsty. When grown on sandy soil these trees are small and their late fruit (fruit from the last June blossoms, which at latest must be gathered in February and March) is spongy and unfit for transportation. Oranges do better than lemons on sandy soil. Climatic Influences. — The climatic influences in this district are sel- dom injurious to orange and lemon trees. The lemon requires an equable climate to produce perfect fruit. The orange and mandarin are hardier and suffer less from sudden changes of temperature ; they do well at a higher elevation than the lemon and at a greater distance from the sea. Temperature. — The temperature in this orange and lemon district ranges from 34° to 100° Fahr. ; should it, however, exceed those limits for a few hours only the trees soon rally. During the winter of 1887 the mercury fell to 22°, and the tender twigs were frozen ; these being at once cut away, the trees were none the worse for the cold. During the summers of 1888 and 1889 the mercury rose to 103° ; an extra supply of water soon made the trees look as green as ever. 49 G FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The average temperature is 96° in summer and 42° in winter ; mean annual temperature 70° , Nights cold or warm, sultry, moist, ordinary atmosphere. Spring and autumn the nights are frequently cold, and still always above freezing-point, however, and do no damage. Warm nights increase the evaporation but do not injure the trees. In March and April the cold at early dawn sometimes blights the blooms, which would otherwise produce the " bastard " or late fruit. During the summer the atmosphere is seldom if ever dry. In winter the air is dry when the wind is north, which rarely happens. West and northwest winds are damp. The prevailing wind is the sirocco (southeast) ; it is generally warm and moist. The average moisture of the atmosphere is 0.025 millimeters ; quite inadequate to the successful culture of the orange and lemon. Only groves of the stiffest clay or calcareous soil with a wet subsoil can dis- pense with irrigation. Oranges stand drought better than lemons. There are but few sultry days except in the early spring, when the atmosphere is saturated with moisture ; at this period rain is not wanted, and often proves destructive to the crops. The average annual rain-fall is 22 inches. From April to September it seldom rains, but pours in torrents in September and October, causing great damage. The heavy rain during the night of October 1, 1889, destroyed a number of groves. Light, steady, and constant rains occur in March and April. Eain in May and June damages the blooms. Earn in September helps to develop the bastard fruit. Too much rain causes the trees to become chlorotic, and predisposes them to the " gum;" it also makes the fruit watery and destroys its keeping qualities. Irrigation. — Generally speaking, throughout Sicily, orange and lemon culture is impracticable without irrigation. There are a few exceptions to this rule, however, in certain favored localities. The trees are watered for the first time in June, when the fruit from the early blooms is the size of a pea and the trees are still in bloom. The amount of water required to the acre depends upon the age of the trees, the nature of the soil, altitude, exposure, etc. On an average, each lemon tree, on moderately moist soil, requires 200 liters of water at each watering ; 2,000 liters of water a year. 4 Cultivation. — Vegetables are planted between the rows until the trees are large enough to shade the ground. Young trees are in consequence worked six times a year. When the trees have attained their full growth they are worked but seldom. The first working of a full-grown grove takes place in October or No- vember, after the autumnal rains have made irrigation unnecessary. A grubbing-hoe is used to stir the soil, cover the weeds, and draw away the earth from the foot of trees. The second working is in March, when the earth is thrown bank to the foot of the trees. The third work- ORANGES AND LEMONS IN MESSINA. 497 ing is in April, after which the land is trenched and a basin is made around each tree. Fertilizers. — These groves are badly fertilized, as there are no good fertilizers here. Stable mannre is so mismanaged that it furnishes" bat little plant-food. Fifty-five pounds of stable manure are applied annually to each young lemon tree. These gardeners are now finding out that this amount is too great, although the manure is of an inferior quality. Lemon groves in bearing are manured every three or four years ; 55 pounds of cow or stable manure to the tree. Some gardeners put the manure in the irrigation trench, and let the water spread it around the trees ; others scatter the manure around the trees, turn it under, and then irrigate. Experiments are being made with sulphate of ammonia. The best time to fertilize orange and lemon trees is from April to May. To obtain bastard fruit the trees are fertilized in October. Pruning. — A tree is never pruned until it is four years old ; its suck- ers and badly placed branches only having been cut away up to that time. Trees are generally pruned in March, after the crop has been gathered, but no precise date can be given. These trees are always pruned high from the ground ; their lowest branches are at least 7 feet above the soil, except when they are directly exposed to winds from the sea, in which case they are kept low that they may escape, as much as possible, from the salt spray. Pruning should not be practiced in sum- mer, as, at that season, the wounds are hard to heal and are apt to pre- dispose the trees to gangrene and other diseases. Picking — Lemons are gathered from October to August; oranges from November to April. Lemons are picked whilst immature for foreign markets, and should not weigh less than 80 grams each. Lemon- juice and essence are extracted from inferior lemons. The greatest care fs necessary in gathering the fruit not to bruise it. After the stems have been cut close the fruit is wrapped in tissue-paper and carefully packed in boxes containing from 300 to 360 lemons and from 160 to L'OO, 240, 300, and 360 oranges. J'tanting. — One hundred and sixty-two trees are planted to the acre. Propagating. — The lemon is now budded on the bitter orange stock ( Citrus bigaradia). Prior to 1870 the seedling only was budded, but this tree having been destroyed by the gum the hardy bitter orange stock has taken its place. The several varieties of oranges grown are also budded on the bitter orange stock. Varieties. — The best varieties are budded j seedlings never reproduce their own variety. Orchard*. — The orchards are generally small, averaging from five to seven acres. The high prices that ruled a few years ago induced small land-owners to plant out orchards, but prices having fallen and diseases 498 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. having made their appearance many of these orchards have been aban- doned. Maturity. — Trees begin to bear at six years of age and are most pro- lific at twenty. The greatest age of the average tree is fifty years. Orange trees sometimes last eighty years. Insect pests. — A number of insects attack orange and lemon trees : The Coccus hesperidum, Kermes qurantiis,&nts,Mytilaspisfulva, Secanium hesperidum. The most troublesome of the parasites is the coccus, which belongs to the order of the hemiptera and to the suborder of the homoptera, and is vulgarly called the scab. In the spring it propagates rapidly in damp, warm weather. It prefers the lemon to the orange. This is very detrimental to trees that are overshadowed by taller trees or that have not had their heads opened out to let in light and air. Remedy : a solu- tion of lime. The Kermes aurantii is partial to the orange and punctures its leaves Remedies : Solution of lime, solution of sulphate of copper, kerosene, infusion of tobacco. The best way to get rid of ants is to destroy their hills in February with kerosene ; fumigations of sulphur are also resorted to. The Mytilaspis fulva ; remedy, solution of phenic acid. The Secanium hesperidum ; remedy, sulphur fumes. Beneficial insects.— The coleoptera (of the cochineal family) and the hemiptera, above mentioned, feed on the aphides. Parasites. — There are no known parasites of the injurious insects. Small birds, if preserved from ruthless sportsmen, would prey upon these destructive insects. Picking and curing. — The fruit is gathered in baskets, lined with cloth, and piled at the foot of a tree, where expert workmen trim the pe- duncles close to the fruit and examine each orange and lemon, selecting the choice ones for exportation. This fruit is then carried in large bas- kets to the warehouse, where, after a second careful inspection, women wrap it in tissue-paper. The fruit contained in each box must be of the same size. These packers are most expert in classifying the fruit. Sight and touch are the only sizers used. If the boxes are kept for any length of time in warehouses, they are opened once every three YeeXs that their contents may be carefully re-examined, and the damaged fruit removed. Time is the only curing process for both oranges and lemons. WALLACE S. JONES, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Messina, January 27, 1890. OKANGES AND LEMONS JN MESSINA. 499 MESSINA. REPORT OF CONSUL JONES. [Republished from Consular Kcport No. 102.] ORANGES AND LEMONS. Ju Sicily lemon culture is 30 per cent, more profitable than orange culture; lemon trees are more prolific than orange trees. Prices for lemons are higher tban for oranges. Tbe province of Palermo is the great orange district of Sicily. Throughout the province of Messina tbr orange was exterminated in 1865-1870 by the "gum," and the lemon budded on the wild orange has taken its place. To defy the ravages of the gum the bud must be put in the wild orange stock at least 3 feet from the ground. ORANGES. The bulk of oranges shipped from Messina comes from the province of Reggio on the main-laud. In Calabria they begin gathering the orange in October ; their fruit is hard, sour, and of a whitish appearance ; it is shipped to England. Shipments of oranges to the United States begin in December. They begin gathering oranges in Sicily in November, if we except small shipments to London of unripe and undersized oranges from Milasso, 30 miles to the northwest of Messina. This poor fruit is quoted at about 70 cents a box in October ; deducting 20 cents for cost of box, leaves 50 cents for the fruit and handling. These oranges are bought by confectioners. The climate of southern Italy being warmer in summer than that of Sicily (Sicily, surrounded by the deep waters of the Mediterranean, is cooler in summer and warmer in winter than the province of Eeggio), and the oranges being generally grown on a light, sandy soil, account for their maturing earlier in Calabria. As just stated, the first gather- ing of oranges in Sicily occurs in November, but most of the crop is gathered in December and January. The Sicilian grower prefers run- ning the risk of damage by frost (but two crops have been injured by cold during the last twenty years) to gathering his oranges when they are still too immature. Sicily oranges, which are, of course, not fully ripe when gathered, keep well for forty days. Frequently the fruit when gathered is allowed to sweat in the groves from two to three days, piled on the ground and covered over with tarpaulins ; it is then wrapped in tissue paper, boxed up, and sent to the city. Fruit is also sent directly from the groves. All fruit upon reaching the exporters' warehouses is carefully inspected, selected, and wrapped in fresh tissue paper, and re- packed. Exporters ship their oranges as soon as packed. COST OF PACKING— SHIPMENT. During the shipping season large firms in Messina employ as many as three hundred women and girls, paying them 20 to 25 cents a day — 500 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. nine hours7 work. The women select and wrap up the fruit. Men are employed to pack the fruit and handle the boxes ; they get from 40 to 50 cents a day. The stevedores handle the boxes with great care. The steamers give all possible ventilation to the fruit during the voyage. Fruit possessing the greatest keeping qualities is sent in sailing vessels to the United States. The duties paid on oranges and lemons enter- ing the United States are as follows : On oranges in boxes, capacity not exceeding 2J cubic feet, 25 cents per box; half-boxes, capacity not exceeding 1} cubic feet, 13 cents per half-box ; bulk, $1.60 per thousand ; barrels, capacity not exceeding that of the 196-pound flour barrel, 55 cents per barrel ; packages not especially enumerated or provided for, 20 per cent.; on lemons in boxes, 30 cents per box ; on half-boxes, 16 cents; in bulk, $2 per thousand ; in packages 20 per cent. Exporters frequently buy the fruit on the trees. Below is given the cost of preparing and shipping a box of oranges or lemons: Cutting, selecting, and packiDg in the groves $0.15 Box, paper, nails, and hooping 30 Transportation to Messina (average) "20 Repacking, shipping charges, store rent, and brokerage 14 Freight, per box, by steamer to New York 30 Total 1.09 A few firms export fruit to the United States on joint account. Fruit is generally shipped on consignment. Consignees7 commissions and auction fees are 6 per cent. Years ago oranges were preserved in sand for from four to five months, merely for family use. This practice no longer prevails ; it would not pay on a large scale, such enormous warehouses would be required and so great would be the expense of handling the fruit. Preserving oranges in bran has been tried ; it proved too heating. I have heard of a successful shipment of oranges packed in beech sawdust. The ves- sel carrying the cargo left Messina in December and reached St. Peters- burg in May. Spanish grapes packed in cork-tree sawdust keep from September to March. Preserving oranges by the fumes of sulphur has never been attempted here, lest the fumes might cause the fruit to dry up. % The maturing of oranges and lemons is affected by the altitude, lati- tude, excessive heat in certain localities, irregular rain-fall, and the nature of the soil. Sicily is mountainous in character, and is agronomically divided into three zones : (1) Marine zone, in which fruit ripens earliest. (2) Middle zone, extending from 1,500 to 3,000 feet above the sea- level. (3) Mountain zone, where the temperature is too low and the climate too damp for citrus culture, OKA.ViKS AND LKMOXS IX MKSSIXA. 501 The soil has a great influence upon the maturing ami keeping quali- ties of the citri. The fruit ripens earlier on light, sandy soil than on clay soil. Fruit grown on light, sandy soil can not be left long on the trees without its deteriorating in quality — becoming dry and spongy — whereas on stiff clay it can remain with impunity until the end of April. The latest fruit to ripen is that produced on the upper limit of the mid- dle zone — the trees growing in stiff clay soil — which can remain on the nvcs until the end of June without its drying up or its skin becoming hard and spongy ; it must, however, be gathered in July, for should it be left longer on the trees it would injure the new crop. Fruit grown on a light, sandy soil is small and of a pale yellow, and is of comparatively short keeping. That grown on a clay soil is large ; it keeps well and is of a reddish brown. Trees on clay soil resist a drought much better than those on sandy soil. The groves to the south- west of the Palermo district produce much more highly-prized fruit than those on the northwest, the sole difference between them being their clay and sandy soils. As in the neighborhood of Palermo, so in other districts of the province, even where the climatic differences are great. Fruit in Sicily is known as " mountain fruit" and ** sea coast" fruit. Merchants further classify the fruit according to the soil on which it grows. Fruit grown on a clay soil brings 30 per ce*nt. more than fruit produced on a sandy soil. Mountain fruit is firmer and keeps better ; its superiority is attributed to the nature of the soil and not to the influence of the climate. Fruit produced in the plain of Portello, the soil of which is clay, brings the same as that grown on the heights of Moureale: The fine large oranges that bring a high price in Palermo in summer are allowed to remain on the trees until the end of May, when they are stored in subterranean grottoes. They are produced on clay soil abounding in alkalies and well-decomposed organic matter. In the sides of the mountains, near Palermo, are many grottoes that are cool and well ventilated, in which oranges keep nicely during the summer; they are spread two layers deep upon large mats, placed at convenient distances one above the other. Every day or two the fruit is turned over and all the defective oranges are removed. This fruit finds a home market. The principal orange and lemon groves are on the northern and east- ern coasts. The mountains along these shores rise in bold headlands from the sea, having but a narrow strip of land — the marine zone, of a sandy character — at their base. The soil of the hill-sides — the middle zone — is generally clay. For lack of water for irrigation, oranges and lemons are not grown to any extent on the southern and western shores. LEMONS. The well-known variety of lemon called the "lunare "-lunar, or ever- bearing, produces blossoms and fruit every mouth iu the year. When, 502 • FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. however, during the Indian summer, rainy days are succeeded by dry, clear weather, lemon trees of different varieties immediately put on blooms, and if, owing to the mildness of the season, the fruit sets at the beginning of winter, it will come to maturity in midsummer. Lemons are divided into two classes, the true lemon and the bastard lemon. The true lemon is produced by the April and May blooms ; the bastard by the irregular blooms of February, March, June, and July, which depend upon the rain-fall or regular irrigation and the intensity of the heat during the summer and winter seasons. The true lemon requires nine months to reach maturity, from the bloom in May to the mature fruit in January. There are but three harvests of the true lemon. The first is the November cut, when the lemon is green m appearance and not fully ripe. Lemons of this cut are the most highly prized ; they possess remarkable keeping qualities, and are admir- ably preserved in boxes in warehouses from November until March, and sometimes as late as May, and then shipped. The second cut occurs in December and January. Lemons of the January cut must be shipped three weeks after gathering. At this date the lemon has acquired a yellowish appearance. The third cut occurs in March and April. This fruit is shipped as soon as gathered, spring prices being always high. The uniformity in size of lemons, as we meet them in the trade, is due to the monthly harvestings from October to March. No sizer is used or even known here. Bastard lemons present well-characterized peculiarities in shape and appearance; their inner skin is fine and adheres tenaciously to the meat ; they are hard, rich in acid, and seedless. The bastard lemon, produced from the bloom of June 1, is still green the following April, and ripens only towards the end of July. It remains on the tree over a year, and sells well in summer. Besides the March and June bas- tards, there are yet others that remain on the trees from twelve to eighteen months. The true lemon can be left on the tree until the end of May or the first week in June, but it interferes with the new crop, drops off from overmaturity, and is liable to be attacked by insects. The bastards, on the contrary, withstand bad weather and parasites, and they mature from June to October. It is estimated that four times more oranges than lemons are lost in the groves and warehouses. Good drainage is, of course, most essential in orange and lemon culture. Table A shows the mean annual price per box of oranges and lemons at Messina for the years 1870 to 1886, inclusive, the figures being official. ESSENCES. With three strokes of his sharp knife the cutter peels the lemon lengthwise and lets the peel fall into a tub under the chopping-block. He then cuts the lemon in two and throws it from his knife into a bucket. He works with wonderful rapidity and fills from ten to twelve tubs with ORANGKS AND UNIONS IN MESSINA. 503 peel a day and is paid 5 cents a till), weighing?? pounds. His left liaiid and right index arc protected with bauds of osuaburgs or leather. De- cayed i ni it is not peeled, as its oil cells, being atrofied, yield no essence. Fresh peel is soaked in water fifteen minutes before the essence is ex- tracted. Peel that has stood a day or two should remain in soak from thirty to forty minutes, that it may swell and offer a greater resistance against the sponge. The operative holds a small sponge in his left hand against which he presses each, piece of peel two or three times, simple pressure followed by rotary pressure. The women employed in this work run a piece of cane through their sponges to enable them to hold them more firmly. The outside of the peel is pressed against the sponge, as the oil glands are in the epicarp. The crushing of the oil- cells liberates the essence therein contained. The sponge, when satu- rated with the essence, is squeezed into an earthenware vessel the oper- ative holds in his lap. He is expected to press the peel so thoroughly as not to overlook a single cell. This is ascertained by holding the pressed peel to the flame of a candle ; should it neither crackle nor diminish the brilliancy of the flame the cells are empty. This process yields besides the essence, a small quantity of juice and feccia (dregs). The separation of the essence, juice, and feccia soon takes place if the vessels are not disturbed ; the oil floats on the juice and the dregs fall to the bottom. These three products derived from the peel have no affinity with each other. As the essence rises to the surface it is skimmed off, bottled, and left to settle fora few days. It is then drawn off with a glass syphon into copper cans which are hermetically sealed. After the essence has been expressed a small quantity of juice is pressed from the peels, which are then either fed to oxen or goats or thrown on the manure pile and well rotted, or they would make too heating a fertilizer. The yield of essence is very variable. This industry is carried on five months in the year. Immature fruit contains the most oil. From Xovember to April, in the province of Messina, one thousand lemons yield about 14 ounces of essence and 17 gallons of juice. An operative expresses three baskets , of lemon peel (weighing 190 pounds) a day, and is paid 20 cents a basket. The essence is so valuable that the opera- tives are closely watched ; they are most ingenious in secreting it about their persons. Six men work up 8,000 lemons a day ; two cut off the peel while four extract the essence, and obtain 136 gallons of lemon- juice and 7 pounds of essence. In the extraction of essence defective fruit — thorn-pricked fruit blown down by the wind or attacked by rust — is used. This fruit is sold by the " thousand," equivalent to 119 kilos or 260 pounds, and thus classified : First, mixed lemons, as they come from the groves during December and January, of good quality but not always marketable, of ten from top branches; second, lemons from March blooms ; third, lemons refused at the packing-houses ; fourth, dropped fruit ; fifth, shriveled or deformed fruit. 156A 8 504 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Prices do not depend exclusively upon the classification of the fruit ; the locality where it was grown is taken into consideration as well. Lemons grown on clay soil yield more essence and juice than those grown on sandy or rocky soil. Dealers sometimes adulterate their essence with fixed oils, alcohol, or turpentine. Adulteration by fixed oils is detected by pouring a few drops of essence on a sheet of paper and heating it. Upon the evapora- tion of the essence a greasy spot will remain. Alcohol is detected by pouring a few drops of the essence into a glass tube in which a small quantity, of chloride of lime has been dissolved. The tube is then heated and well shaken, and its contents being allowed to settle the essence \visl float in the denser liquid. To detect turpentine pour a few drops of essence on writing-paper and a strong smell of turpentine will re- main after the essence has evaporated. The essence of sour orange, mixed with the essence of lemon, produces an aroma similar to that of the essences of bergamot ; the latter is much used by confectioners in flavoring ice-creams, etc. Equal parts of lemon essence and spirits of turpentine, well mixed (mixture known as essenza vestrincutale), remove stains from linen and silk fabrics. In a bergamot essence establishment at Eeggio, on the main-land,1s to be seen in operation a hand machine for extracting essential oil. The skin of the unpeeled bergamot is punctured by a system of revolving kriive's and then gently pressed. It should be borne in mind that the bergamot is spherical in shape, and this machine could not be used on the lemon on account of its shape. A thermo-pneumatic essence ex- tractor, worked by steam-power, has also been invented, but the old system is still in general use in Sicily on account of abundant and cheap labor. The method employed for the extraction of essential oil from the lemon (as given above) applies as well to the sweet and sour orange, to the bergamot, and to the mandarin. But a very small quantity of essence of mandarin is made, and but slight attention is paid to the extracting of essence from the orange flower. The essence extracted from the flower of the bergamot is called neroli, and is worth $35 per pound. Table B shows the total quantity and value of essences exported from Messina for the last eighteen years— 1870 to 1887. Table C shows the value of the essences exported from Messina to the United States for the last ten years— 1878 to 1887. Table D shows the mean annual price per kilogram at Messina of the essence of bergamot, lemon, and orange for the years 1870 to 1886. RAW AND CONCENTRATED LEMON-JUICE. When lemons have been peeled and cut in two, as above stated, they are carried to the press and thrown into large wicker bags, circular in form, made of bulrushes, and are pressed in these bags. If the juico ORANGES AND LF.MOXS IN MUSSINA. '505 is to be exported raw only perfectly sound lemons can be used; but if the juice is to be boiled down, one-fifth of the lemons may be of an in- ferior quality and two-fifths of them pretty well decayed. The juice from sound lemons is yellowish in color, and gives a pleasant aroma ; its density decreases with age. With all classes of lemons the yield of juice and its acidity varies considerably from month to month. The amount <>t' juice increases from October to April, its acidity and density decrease, and the same is the case with the density of the'essence, owing to the winter rains. The manufacturing of essential oil and lemon juice is quite lucrative, but manufacturers, to avoid being taxed on their business, are reticent as to their profits. An addition of 5 per cent, of alcohol will prevent raw lemon-juice from spoiling. Lemon-juice is adulterated with salt or tartaric acid. Kaw and concentrated lemon-juice is exported in casks of 130 gallons capac- ity. It requires 1,500 lemons to yiejd 26 gallons (1 hectoliter) of raw juice, while it takes 2,500 to yield the same quantity of concentrated juice, and 200,000, more or less, according to their acidity, to give a cask. Experience has shown that the lemons of the Province of Mes- sina, especially from the eastern shore, contain more acidity than the lemons grown elsewhere in Sicily. The value of lemon-juice is governed by its acidity. The rule is that concentrated lemon juice shall show 60 degrees of acidity (the juice extracted from the bergamot or the sour orange must show 48 degrees, or one-fifth less than that derived from the lemon ; it also sells for one- fifth less than lemon-juice). Formerly a sitrometer, known as Ronch- etti's gauge, was used to ascertain the per cent, of acidity ; now, how- ever, resort is had to chemical analysis, which is more satisfactory both to seller and buyer.* Lemon-juice is used in the printing of calicoes. Table B shows the mean annual price of concentrated lemon-juice per cask of 130 gallons, and of raw lemon-juice per hectoliter of 26 gallons, from 1870 to 1886. Table F shows the export of lemon-juice from Messina from Decem- ber, 1884, to December, 1887. Of late years a new article, known as vacuum-pan concentrated nat- ural juice of the lemon, has been manufactured here. The juice concen- trated by this method contains 600 grains of crystallizable citric acid for every quart. It is exported in casks containing 112 gallons, in half and quarter casks. It is also shipped in bottles of 500, 300, and 150 grains each. This concentrated juice is as limpid as first-quality oil. There is an establishment here, probably the only one of its kind in Italy, that prepares crystallized citric acid. It takes from three hundred and forty to three hundred and eighty lemons to make a pound of citric acid, which sells at about 43 cents. * The last two paragraphs am qnoted from my report accompanying dispatch 51, dated April 20, 1888. 506 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. FRUIT IN BRINE. Large quantities of sound but unmarketable lemons and sour oranges are packed in brine. The remarks referring to the shipment of citron in brine, contained in my report published in No. Cl, Consular Reports, February, 1886, are equally applicable to the packing in brine of lemons and sour oranges. A cask of sour oranges in brine is worth here about $10 at this time. Small lemons in brine are worth about $8 per cask, and good-sized ones about $12. While the custom-house keeps a record of the quantity of citron in brine that is annually exported, singularly enough it keeps no record of the large shipments of other fruits in brine. Fresh and salted fruits are included in the same figures. WALLACE S. JONES, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Messina, January 8, 1889. TABLE A. — Mean annual pric at Messina per box of lemons and oranges for the years 1870 to 1886,- inclusive. Tears. Lemons. Oranges. Tears. Lemons. Oranges. 1870 $2 15 $1 86 1879 $1.93 $t 23 3871 2 25 1 6s} 1880 2 30 30 1872 2 48 1 71 lygl 1 94 01 1873 2.93 1.41 1882 1.83 30 1874 3 26 1 70 1883 1 44 10 1875 3 08 1 53 1884 1.22 17 1876 2.33 1.36 1885 1.36 1.12 1877 2 19 1 19 1886 . .. 2.00 1 14 1878 2.43 1.07 TABLE B. — Quantity and value of essences exported from Messina to the whole world during the years 1870 to 1887, inclusive. Tears. Kilograms. Value. Tears. Kilograms. Value. 1870 271 614 $1 310 900 1K79 232 738 $806 310 1871 285 091 1.596,500 1880 222, 216 1, 257, 826 1872 303 000 2 424 000 1881 .< 345 923 1 793 675 1873 281 590 1 408,145 1882 367, 668 1,387 4'>8 1874 245 031 1 870 190 1 883 288 366 1 280 392 1875 283 834 1 368 010 1884 215 910 t 960, 004 1876 326 978 o 604 370 1885 231 427 982 894 1877 306 948 2 313 770 1886 295, 036 566 313 1878 252 097 1, 624, 225 1887 200, 000 600, 000 TABLE C. — Value of essences exported from Messina to the United States from 1878 to 1887, inclusive. Tears. Value. Tears. Value. 1878 $165 345 1883 $231 900 1879 271, 768 1884 249, 680 1880 263 8''9 1885 137, 375 1881 329 765 1886 211, 071 1882 209, 933 1887 259, 111 ORANGES AND LEMONS IN MESSINA AND NAPLES. 507 TABLE D. — Wtan annual prices of essence* at Mesainafor tlte years 1870 to 188C, inclusive- Years. Bergaraot. Lemon. Orange. Years. _;iraot. Lemoc. Orange. 1870 Per kilo. $6 10 Per kilo. $5.14 Per kilo. $2. 55 1879... Per kilo. Per kilo. $3.86 Per kiln. $3.04 1871 6 35 6 53 3 35 1880 5 52 5 23 IS7-* 8 10 8.50 5.86 1881 4 10 4 °3 3 47 1873 •I 61 7 50 3 87 4 •»•> 4 06 1874 11 :")" G. 45 2.95 1883 3.50 1875 10 00 5 23 " 4',', 1884 2 78 1 77 1876 7 56 5 00 3.18 1885 ^.51 1 7i) I 80 1877 7 jg 4 35 3 12 1886 2 00 1 75 1 87 1*78 5 83 3.56 3.22 TABI.K E. — Mean annual prices at Messina for concentrated lemon -juice and raw '• juice for the years 1870 to 1886, inclusive. Years. Concentrated Raw lemon- lemon-jtiice, ! juice, per per cask of hectoliterof 130 gallons, j 26 gallons. Years. Concentrated lemon-juice, per cask of U;iw lenion- juice, per bectotiterof 26 gallons. 1K70 $133.40 1G7.10 268. 00 332.80 •J97. 30 213.33 163.10 15.8. 15 144. 72 $2.30 2.50 3.60 | 5.33 5.13 4.10 3.00 2.63 2.30 1879 $115. 00 1G1. 00 159. 50 124.43 101.50 84. '20 98.15 143.43 $1.98 3.00 2.53 2.53 1871 1880 1872 1881 ,873 1882 1874 1883 1875 1884 1876 1885 1877 1886 1878 TABLE F. — Exports of lemon-juice from Messina to the following places during the years 1885, 1886, and 1887. Places. Dec. 1, 18*4, Nov. 30, 1885. Dec, 1, 1885, to Nov. 30, 1886. Dec. 1, 1886, Xov. 30, 1887. Pipes. •> 687 Pipeg. ] 10G Pipe*. Liverpool . . 184 •2-0 400 8 3 ,\ States 241 393 298 •.lies - 164 254 Genoa 5 12 14 1 107 152 1^2 Kussia 231 44 154 96 Total 3 440 2 353 4 438 NAPLES. REPORT BY CONSUL OAMPHAUSEN. ORANGES AND LEMONS. \'ttr it-tic*. — The names of best variety for profit are the Palermo oranges and Sorrento lemons. The other choice varieties worthy of oult- ure and for profit are the Gargano, Majori, Amalfi, and Sicilian oranges and lemons. Location. — The tnvs ;uv, planted on rich soil, where the tr.mpeniture 508 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES is not high, and where they are protected from cold winds. Distance from sea, 30 meters (97^ feet) ; elevation above sea-level, from 25 to 3,000 feet; southern exposure to sun, level land; clayish and damp soil is best. Climatic influences — Minimum 0, maximum 18° centigrade. The nights are warm, days variable. Kain-fall from December to February is very beneficial to all fruits, making them grow better, and improving also the growth of the tree The rain-fall in inches can not be ascertained, as there is no record kept by any person as far as I can ascertain. Ab some of the observatories records are perhaps kept but it is difficult to obtain information from them. Irrigation. — Irrigating is practiced from May to September, and until the soil is soaked through ; in summer every week. Cultivation. — By stirring the ground every two years and frequently during the season. Fertilizers are not used. Pruning. — In the month of April, about three feet from the ground, in the usual manner. Picking. — As soon as they become yellow the oranges and lemons are picked, wrapped in thin paper, put in boxes, and shipped. Planting and propagating. — The trees are planted 15 feet apart, and propagated by graftings and planting the seeds. The best varieties are from seedlings — wild oranges grafted into sweet oranges and lemons. Most of the orchards are large. Maturity. — At the age of four years they begin to bear. The largest crops are obtained when the tree is twenty years old. They mature at from fifty to one hundred years. Insect pests. — The louse ; no remedy has been found or discovered to destroy it. There are no beneficial insects. EDWARD OAMPHAUSEN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, j January 31, 1890. PALERMO, REPORT BY CONSUL CARROLL, 'Varieties. — The following are the best varieties cultivated in Sicily, viz: Citrus bigaradia macrocarpa, Kiss ; Citrus bigaradia coro?mta, Kiss ; Citrus bigaradia glaberrima, Kiss ; Citrus medica glabra, kiss j Citrus medicaflorentina,lliss', Citrus bergamia (variety Vulgaris), Eiss ; Citrus bergamia (variety Mellarosa), Kiss; Citrus aurantium piriforme, Kiss • Citrus aurantium precox, Kiss ; Citrus deliciosa, Ten. ; Citrus limonum fusiforme. Kiss ; Citrus limonum oblongum. Kiss ; Citrus limonum cala- bricum, Kiss. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN PALERMO. .")()!) The following varieties are also cultivated, each having its special merits, viz : Varieties. Citrus bigaratlia 21 Citnis limetta 7 Citrns lumia -. 1 Citrus medica 8- Citrus bergamia 2 Citrus aurantiain 22 Citms deliciosa 1 Citrus limonum « 19 PLANTING AND PROPAGATING. Orange trees are planted 5 meters apart, and lemon trees from 5 to G apart, depending on circumstances. The old lemon and orange gardens in this vicinage are generally either the result of certain succulent slips, which were cut from the trees and buried or planted two-thirds of their length in moist friable ground, or curving or bending a live branch, without detaching it from the tree, and inserting it to a depth of about 30 centimeters in rich, soft friable soil. At the end of about two years, or when suf- ficient roots sprouted from the branch thus bended in order to enable it to live without the mother tree, the branch in question was detached therefrom and allowed to proceed, in growth, on its own account. This method of propagation has become almost extinct. There are certain cases, however, in which it is still resorted to because of the rapidity with which the trees develop and which make it preferable to any other, as well as on account of the abundance of the yield of trees thus propagated. But the fact that such trees are susceptible of at- tack by male della gomma and readily destroyed thereby in a few years, has convinced even the most steadfast adherent of the method that it should be abandoned and a resort had to propagation through the several varieties of melangoli seed, called here aranci amari (Citrus bigaradia) and the trees thus derived grafted with the various varie- ties, as they resist the malady in question with much more vigor. In fact, the orange and lemon trees of Palermo, which are generally ob- tained by the seed of the melangoli, have resisted the male della gomma much better than those of Messina which were formed from plants de- rived from lemon branches. The best varieties are budded. The orchards in Sicily are very large and are, in view of the great profit ensuing therefrom, increasing rapidly. Fructification. — They fructify at the age of three years, the yield being largest thereafter, from year to year, up to the twentieth, when they are becoming old and subject to all diseases. At this period they are denuded of their branches and a new graft resorted to. Insect pests. — The most troublesome insect, and that which injures t lie orange and lemon trees most, is called Coccus hesperidum lin or Coccus citry. 610 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The facility with which this insect propagates itself, and the rapid increase consequent thereon, result, in a comparatively short time, in the death or serious injury to the trees. The mode of attack of this insect is by eating a hole in the tree from which soon exudes a profuse flow of juice, resulting in death or serious injury thereof, as stated. The coccus citry lodges in trees having thick leaves, and especially in those shaded by larger trees or plants. In this contingency pruning is resorted to, with a view of letting in light, and thus causes the insect to seek another refuge or die. No specific is known to combat this insect, but the usual mode of relief therefrom is by washing the trees with lime water. Other very injurious insects abound such as the Kermes coccineus, Kermes hesperidum, Kermes aurantu, Lecanium hesperidum, and Pidocchio, which prefer the orange to the lemon trees. These, too, are destroyed by lime water, solutions of copper, sulphate thereof, etc., petroleum, snuff, etc. Beneficial insects. — Terrestrial formicas or ants destroy other destruc- tive insects and their eggs, but in their absence they gnaw the tender branches and leaves, thus causing them to atrophy. Therefore all efforts are made to destroy the ants as in the case of other insects, hoeing the ground in winter being resorted to as a means to that end, thus expos- ing them to inclement and cold weather, death generally ensuing as a consequence. Parasites. — The litchens, which attach themselves to old trees, those attached by male della gomma. Shady and moist places favor the development of litchens. Sea water is used as a wash to get rid of this parasite. The fumagine evoluting from the agglomeration of microscopic plants, technically called capnodium or Fumago citry, The fumagine attacks all varieties of oranges and lemons and causes grave damage. The trees attacked suffer greatly, the yield thereof being very small. The fumagine attacks the trunks, branches, leaves, and fruit. Only the epidermis or outsite of the fruit is attacked. This parasite is destroyed by means of pruning and manuring in January. LEMON AND ORANGE GROVES. The trees that produce the varieties named at the beginning of this report are grown in Sicily. Distance from sea. — There is no fixed distance from sea for planting orange and lemon trees. There are many orange and lemon gardens in the vicinity of Palermo, bordering on the sea, some of which prosper better than those situated more inland. This, however, obtains only when the gardeners are skilled men and give particular attention to the ground and adopt proper means with a view of protecting the trees from strong sea-winds. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN PALERMO. 511 Eleratiof above sea-lecel. — It is impracticable to determine with ac- curacy the elevation at which orange andlemon trees can be cultivated, the latitude and certain special conditions influencing this. In Sicily? tor instance, oranges and lemons are profitably cultivated along the sea- coasts at an altitude of from 100 to 500 meters above sea-level, and often much better crops are obtained where the elevation is from 500 to 1,000 meters. Exposure to sun. — It is of great advantage when the gardens have a southern exposure, or when the sun beams down upon them from sunrise to sunset. This exposure is recommended by gardeners here. Position of orchards. — Orange and lemon trees are indifferently planted in the vicinity of Palermo, in hilly, rolling, or level land. The nature of the soil, climate, exposure to sun, attention to the soil, trees, etc., seem to be the principal requisites; elevation, all other things favorable, having little or no influence, save as to quality. Fruits produced on hilly land are more appreciated, and generally command higher prices than those produced on rolling or level land. There are exceptions to this, however. In Palermo, for instance, fruits produced on certain level lands command as high prices as those produced on hilly land ; with this exception, however, the land best adapted to the cultivation of oranges and lemons is generally hilly. In fact,' the fruit-dealers mark their fruits with an " M," which signifies " Montagna" or u Mountain," which enhances their price, as seen from the following comparison, viz : Fruits produced on hilly land, 25, 50 lire per thousand; on rolling land, 21, 27 lire per thousand; on level land, 17 lire per thousand. Soil. — Considerable attention has been given of late years to the char- acter of the soil, subsoil, etc., best adapted to the cultivation of the fruits in question, as well as to the chemical composition of oranges and lemons which has resulted in the belief that calcareous land, con- taining certain other material necessary to the life of all vegetation, is the best, in order that they may contain the requisite amount of lime, potassa, soda, etc. The soil best adapted to the cultivation of oranges and lemons is at least one meter in depth and devoid of rocks, and ac- cessible to water for irrigation, else the trees die. Deep, clay land, open and exposed to the rays of the sun, accessible to water, abounding with alkaline salts, minus rocks or stones, little or no grass, not exposed to strong winds, rains, or frosts, etc., is deemed to present the best advantages in all respects. CLIMATIC INFLUENCES. Temperature. — The temperature in the adjacent territory of Palermo, in summer, does not ordinarily exceed 35° centigrade, and rarely falls lower than 20°, and in winter the maximum is 23°, and the minimum 10°. Consequently, the average summer temperature is 274° and that of winter 1G.JC, the average, annual temperature, being 22°. 512 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Neither cold nor warm nights, in the territory conterminous to Pal- ermo, seem to wield an influence upon the result of the cultivation of oranges and lemons therein. Sultry days, although frequent in sum- mer, and occasional warm or cold spells, appear to exert no detrimen- tal influence upon either lemons or oranges. For instance, the fruits in question flourish quite well where the thermometer does not fall below -f 3° centigrade, in winter, nor rise above 34° in summer. It has been observed in Palermo on various occasions that the orange and lemon trees resist a summer sultry temperature of 40° centigrade, and that of — 2° in winter without any apparent detriment, while many other plants or trees were destroyed or damaged. The atmosphere in and conterminous to Palermo in winter is almost invariably humid or moist, while the climate is mild. In summer the atmosphere is very warm with little moisture, save immediately on the sea-coast, the sdrocco which often obtains making life of all kinds perilous. During this period irrigation is lavishly resorted to in order to keep the trees alive and preserve the fruit. Rain-fall. — The conditions of temperature and climate in Sicily are exceptional, compared with other parts of southern Italj. The strong, constant winds which prevail in winter condense and accumulate the vapors, over which they traverse, into a small compass, and as a re- sult the rain-fall is often so copious as to inundate entire localities. Eain commences about the latter part of September and ends in April, 22 inches falling within the interim named. When rain falls in large quantities the trees are damaged ; but in small quantities it is advantageous to them. Irrigation. — The cultivation of oranges and lemons, in Sicily, gen- erally can not be undertaken, unless the trees are irrigated from spring to autumn, or when the land is not adjacent to springs, the drippings from which serve therefor, or when springs do not exist in the sub- soil, the nitration of which sufficing to maintain the ground in a moist state during summer. The custom of opening canals parallel to the rows of orange and lemon trees into which water, accumulated in an elevated reservoir, is allowed to flow, thence into and between the openings or small depressions between the rows of trees, until the ground is thoroughly saturated, the more remote points from the source of the water being irrigated first, until finally the irrigation water and its source coalesce or meet, obtains here. In the best conducted orange and lemon gardens in the vicinity of Palermo, irrigation is resorted to every eight days during the first year of the growth of the trees 5 every twelve days during the second and third years ; every fifteen days during the years from the fourth to the eighth, inclusive, and from the eighth year forward invariably every twenty -two days. Orange and lemon gardens require, on an average, 350 cubic meters of water for each irrigation to the space of one hectare of land in good condition. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN PALERMO. 51 3 • Great attention is necessary as to the amount of water required. If too much is used the trees are subject to a disease called "male clella gouima;" literally translated, "gum disease." If too little, devel- opment is delayed and even their death may ensue. Cult! rat Ion. — April and May are the best months in which to culti- vate orange and lemon trees, the inclement weather having terminated, thus insuring tin* safety of the buds. Oranges and lemons are cultivated from the dry seed,, which costs lire 1.80 per kilogram, or from fresh plants containing the seed, the latter requiring more attention than the former. Planting or sowing, as the case may be, commences in April, as stated, or later, in order to avoid white frosts, the ground being previously pre- pared. Trees resulting from dry seed are generally good and strong, and attain a height of at least 1 meter, before being grafted with a view o/ propagating the various varieties desired. The gardeners of the Province of Palermo recommend that a distance of about 5 meters should intervene between each orange tree when the ground is level, and about 4 meters in undulating, rolling, or declivitous land. Lemon trees are recommended to be from 5 to 6 meters apart when large trees are expected, or desired, as is the case with all trees derived from "cedrangoli amari," (Citrus Mgaradia, Kiss.) The best means of planting trees is in placing them in parallel lines from north to south, in order that they may be equally exposed to the sun's rays throughout the entire day, and so placed as to form a series of equilateral triangles, with a tree on each angle, as per drawing here- with. To this method of planting the name Losanga has been given. It is customary* during the early stages of the growth of lemon and orange trees to alternate them with other plants, such as vines, cotton, etc., in order to give them strength and nutrition, as well as to utilize the necessarily large vacant spaces of ground. At the expiration of ten years, however, or when the orange and lemon trees have become so large and tall as to obscure the plants in question with their branches, etc., they are taken up and utilized in a new field. Fertilizers. — Alkaline substances are better adapted than any other materials for fertilizing. Gardeners in the vicinity of Palermo formerly used sea-weed, mixed with the excrements of horses and cows or stable accnm illations. Fragments of dressed leather, woolen rags, scrapings from horns, and cert tin other remains of old or cast-off manufactures, as well as decayed fruits, are regarded as the best admixtures of fertilizers for oranges and lemons. The materials or substances in question are stratified in proper places with a view to their fermentation before being used. When trees are planted they are abundantly manured, and after one 514 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. year the ground around them is cleared away to adepth of 40 centimeters, forming a circular ditch with a diameter of two meters into which two baskets of manure, or about 20 kilograms, are deposited, whereupon the ditch is covered with the earth previously removed, placing it so as to form a shallow ditch around the tree. This operation is resorted to in January and February. Small trees are manured twice a year, for the first five years, viz, in March and August. Ordinarily, however, when trees prosper, manuring is resorted to only every three years, the quantity used being about 40 kilograms to each tree. Pruning. — The first pruning is made after the expiration of the third year. The height from the ground depends on the quality of the land in which the trees are planted, as well as the desire for either high or low trees. When the land is exposed to northern and southern winds it is better that the trees should be low, but inversely should this exposure not obtain. In Palermo, as in all Sicily, the orange and lemon gardens are pruned from December to June, while the trees are devoid of fruit, the process being governed by the gardeners7 interests and experience rather than by any theoretical suggestions. Gardeners take care to clip or clean the trees yearly, cutting off all old and useless branches. Pruning is resorted to every three years. PICKING AND CURING.* Oranges are picked from November to March, and lemons from No- vember to August. The first picking is generally made in November, the second in December or January, and the third in March or April. During the summer months, however, such as are verging on maturity are picked from time to time. Oranges and lemons for export are picked prior to maturity, and thus shipped to ripen on the voyage. Oranges and lemons for export are not cured, but simply selected with a view to bearing the long voyage. Those not shipped, and for which a sale is hot readily found in the markets of Palermo, are pre- served from March to August, in well ventilated caves or grottoes, to be sold to ice cream dealers for: the purpose of making ice-cream^ jellies, lemonade, etc. * In a subsequent dispatch Consul Carroll says that, " in connection with preserving oranges and lemons after being taken from the trees, it may be proper to say that this consulate is often applied to for information as to the supposed or alleged means resorted to here for that purpose by California and Florida fruit growers, and to re- peat, for the information of fruit growers in the United States, that there is no proc- ess resorted to nor known hereto preserve the fruits in question other than folding them in fine tissue-paper, which is changed from time to time, and the fruit examined and all contaminated oranges and lemons eliminated from the baskets or boxes in which, for the time being, the fruit may be placed. Precaution is also taken to place or keep the fruit in question in a dry equable temperature. " Oranges and lemons are generally picked before maturity. " ORANGES AND LEMONS IN PALERMO. 515 PACKING AND SHIPPING. When oranges and lemons are picked they are carefully selected and wrapped in tissue-paper, packed in open boxes, and placed in the ware- house. Again, before shipping, they are carefully selected, newly wrapped, and packed. Generally speaking lemons can be divided into two categories, viz, normal lemons and abnormal or anomalous lemons. The normal are those that bloom in the months of April and May, and the abnormal or anomalous those derived from the blossoms of February, March, June, July, and other successive months, and which depend on water- falls, to a more or less degree, during warm weather, for irrigation. The normal lemons arrive at maturity in about nine months — that is, from May to January, inclusive — the picking thereof being commonly made in three successive periods, viz, from November onward. The lemons picked in the first period are green, and those picked in the third period more mature. They are picked according to the require- ments of the purchasers. The first and third pickings are more valua- ble than those of the second, consequent upon fruits being more abun- dant during the latter period. The fruit under consideration is believed to be" the best, and by gar- deners is classified as first class fruit and sold at very high prices. The fruit picked at other times is called anomalous. Lemons are picked by men who, if the trees are too high to permit their doing so from the ground, climb up and detach them, taking care to leave a piece of stem, placing them in baskets lined with linen, on the handle of which is a wooden hook tied in order that the baskets- may be hung on the branches. So soon as a basket is full it is lowered from the tree by means of a rope, provided with a knot, and exchanged for an empty one by a boy known as "panieraio," or, literally, " basket- maker," whose duty it is also to empty the baskets in the place desig- nated by the "tagliapiedi" (peduncle cutter). This is an expert work- man in his line, who performs two offices at the same time, viz, cuts the peduncle of the lemons close to the crown, and afterwards sep- arates the good from the bad lemons, depositing them in two separate heaps. Small lemons, although they may seem to be good, if of less weight than 80 grammes are, as a rule, not exported. It is estimated that out of the total lemon crop about two-thirds are considered fit for export, the remaining third being utilized in the man- ufacture of acid, essences, etc. The " taglia piet^i n (peduncle cutter) places the lemons on a straw bed, in order to protect them, during the voyage, from damage. When lemons are classified, girls place them in baskets lined with linen. Each girl places in her basket 208 lemons, 4 lemons at a time, thus making 52 operations or movements, and when completed places the baskets on her head and conveys it to the warehouse. 516 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. In the warehouse good lemons are placed in flat lots 1.30 meters high, where they are allowed to remain from five to eight days, in order to determine their strength, at the end of which any decayed or dam- aged lemons which may be found are picked out. This is not, however, general, especially when the producer of the fruit is not the shipper and has no interest in the shipment thereof. It is only done in cases where the shipper has purchased the fruit or»the producer ships it on his own account. In the warehouse, near the gardens, the lemons are wrapped with tissue-paper, placed in boxes, the interior of which is lined with paper of the same kind. The boxes so prepared are carried into the city ware- house, where the lemons are taken out of the boxes and a new assort- ment made, and in order to ship them the above operation is repeated. Should the boxes not be promptly shipped for any cause, and remain in the warehouse some time, then it is in the interest of the person on whose account the fruit is to be shipped to assort them, in order to as- certain if there are any damaged fruits among them. The fruit is shipped in boxes of the following dimensions, viz : Centimeters. Breadth 29 Height 42 Length 81 The number of lemons which each box contains depends on their size, and in order to be exact the fruit is divided into four categories, as fol- lows, viz : 200 if of the first category, 240 if of the second category, 360 if of the third category, 420 if of the fourth category. Boxes are divided into two compartments, each containing half the number stated above, placed as follows, viz : First category, in 4 strata, 25 per stratum ; second category, in 4 strata, 30 per stratum ; third category, in 5 strata, 36 per stratum ; fourth category, in 5 strata, 42 per stratum. PHILIP CARROLL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Palermo, March 7, 1890. SICILY. REPORT BY CONSUL LAMANTIA, OF CATANIA. Varieties. — The names of the best varieties of oranges for profit are: The common orange (a round fruit) ; thecalabrese (a long-keeping fruit); the sanguigno (a blood-red orange) ; tfye oval (a late, sweet, and good keeping); the mandarino (mandarine, the largest one). OKANGK.S AND LK.MOXS IN SICILY. 517 The names of the best varieties of lemons for profit are: II limone comune (common lemon for trade) ; 11 bergamotto (for making essences); 11 cedro vero (citrus inedica, for preserving). Situation. — The same are located in low and high land, as well as all around Mount ^Etna, at a distance from 300 to GOO meters from sea, at an elevation from f>00 to 600 meters above sea-level, exposed to sun, on level lands, because it is better, aaul on rich calcareous soil. Climate influence. — The minimum temperature in January is 5° Cent i grade ; the maximum is 35° Centigrade in August, and the average 17° in May. Nights in summer are rather fresh, and cool in winter. Days gener- ally clear, seldom moist, and good atmosphere. Rain-fall from 25 to 30 inches per year, and rain in proper season helps the growth and the fruits greatly. Irrigation. — Irrigation is done by spring and stream water, and by well-water elevated by steam or horse power. The groves with said water are generally irrigated at option, and whenever needed, as lemon trees bear all the year. Cultivation. — The following information I have been able to gather by personal visits to the owners of the beautiful large groves of orange and lemon trees, the production of which forms one of the principal re- sources of the country, viz: When it is wished to plant a new lemon grove, the gardener from November to April prepares in the best spot of his garden a well-manured seed-plot of 2 square meters, whereon he sows a quarter of a gallon bitter-orange seed, and covers the same with about 2 inches of fine earth. Two months later you see the young plants out of the ground, and on the coming summer the seed-plot is to be watered at least every four days. After one year the young plants are at a height of 18 inches, and then the gardener prepares a larger seed-plot to plant the same, at a distance of 18 inches apart, where they are left till another year. The new ground is hoed about 2£ feet deep, and divided in square compartments of 1J feet each side, in the corners of which are located the largest seedlings taken out from the seedling bed, leaving there the smallest ones, to be replanted later on. This method of planting is called by these gardeners mettere a casella (planting in cell). There they are kept for the second year, with good care, the stems being fastened to sticks driven in the ground along-side, in order to grow straight and to protect them from the wind. On the third year the seedlings are already grown sufficiently to be replanted in another larger place, in order to give them more room. Consequently half the largest ones are again dug up and planted in another prepared bed. This second method is called planting in piantonaio. Here the plants are left until the fourth year. In January or February of the fifth year the grower divides nil his ground, already prepared during the previous fall, in square compartments of 14 feet long each side, and in the cor- 518 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. ncrs of each one he digs out round ditches, with some well- manured animal compost, mixed with the earth. It is proper, however, to note that the young trees are always to be kept free from sprouts, and watered and manured diligently. This operation is done as follows: Every fifteen days the ground is removed from the bottom, and the grower around the tree forms two circles, one of a foot ami the other of two feet in diameter. Then he removes the ground from the base of the tree about 5 inches deep and fills it with manure, covered with the same ground. This operation is also recommended for large old trees. In the filth year the said trees of bitter-orange seedlings are grafted hit) lemons, or oranges if desired. Fertilizing. — A lemon grove must at least be dug three times a year; that is, on the first of January, pretty deeply, and the ground ma- nured, if possible, in all its extension; (2) in the month of April for forming the conche (compartments) and gutters for watering in the hot summer; (3) in the middle of June, for weeding. In the fifth year, the young bitter orange trees will be grafted. Grafting. — Although no inquiry is made about grafting, yet I may give some details of the methods used in Sicily. Grafting is done in bccco di flauto (beak of flute), by spacco (splits), or by scudo (shield). This last one is generally practiced in this island, and the proper sea- son is in the month of October or May. The first method is called uad occhio dormente" (sleeping eye), because it is necessary to await the coming spring season to see whether the grafting has turned out well. The second is practiced by smarter agriculturists, and is called occhio vivente (living eye), for the reason that should it fail, in the coming fall it is operated again. The shoots are to be chosen from the best and most vigorous adult trees, and so at the end of the seventh year you will have a good producing young lemon grove, fruiting all the year around. A fifteen-year old tree generally produces 500 lemons, while at twenty it yields over 1,000. Professor Cassella states that he has seen several very large old trees producing as many as 10,000 fruits per year. Pruning. — Pruning is done according to the growth of the tree. The method used in Sicily is a tronco rovesciato (capsized cone.) This form is practiced from the time the tree is young by cutting thk main trunk, and letting the lateral branches grow, in order to have free ven- tilation and free sunlight, and to effect the fruits to maturity. The height of the trees varies according to locality and usage of the country. In Messina, for instance, they are left pretty high, while in this province they are kept low, on account of strong winds, which sometimes prevail around Mount Etna. Picking. — The regular season for picking lemons in this district com- mences from October in low lands, and in November on high lands, up to the end of January. That is called ilprimo taglio (first cut), and th§ ORANGES AND LEMONS IN SICILY. 519 fruits are considered as the best for quality and long-keeping. The second cut, larger than the first one, begins in March and lasts until the end of April, and the last one, or third cut, known as verdelli, from 31 ay to the end of September. Finally lemons bear all the year around. Orange picking commences in low land in November, and on the montagna (mountain) from January to April. These are the best fruits, and dm able, tit for packing and Shipment. The same are always picked a little greenish, and not in full maturity 5 but they acquire their nat- ural bright color after they are wrapped in tissue paper and boxed for shipping. Do fore shipment, however, they are chosen into four different sorts; that is, first and second choice the fruits are thoroughly examined to be entirely free from thorn touch or any disease, and they are shipped for farthest markets. The third choice are sent to near markets, and with the fourth one is made essence and agro cotto. The fruit is gathered with care, the stem is cut with a very sharp round-bladed knife, and left to the eye to prevent decay. Planting and propagation.— -The distance planted apart must not be more than 16 feet, for the reason that if trees are allowed to grow too e they can not stand to support the lateral branches overloaded with fruit, besides preventing free ventilation, without which disease is generated. As before stated, trees are propagated by seedlings and grafting. The best varieties are of course obtained from seedlings, and then grafted to the desired kind. The orchards are pretty large in some localities and small in others. Maturity. — The age of fruiting is at 8 years, giving the largest crop at -0; the maturity of trees is from 70 to 100 years, and according to the soil, exposure, locality, and culture of same. Insect pests. — The insects damaging this beautiful plant are: H pidocchio del limo-ne, (lemon louse) and II pidocchio delVarancio (orange Loose). The first one is an insect of a whitish color, which attacks both leaves and fruits. It made its first appearance in Sicily in 1862, and notwith- standing the several efforts to destroy it, nothing has as yet been accomplished to succeed. The second, pidocchio (louse) of orange, is another insect of a dark ltio\vn color, and a very injurious one to both orange and lemon, by in- ':ig the tree bark, leaves, and fruits. Another insect, supposed to be the cossus aurantii and a crittogama, called nero degli agrumi (black disease) first of a whitish color and then black. Both of them attack, also, the bark and branches of the tree, prop?! gat ing on the leaves, blossoms, and fruits, causing the former to stifle n, turn yellow and dry, while the latter grow very little, turning black, and i ;uire the natural color of the ripe fruits. If the j - levelops early in the season the plant will thoroughly 9 520 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. be covered with the disease, the fruit stops growing, gets black, and falls. It is said that petroleum sprinkled on the trunk and on the branches has proved somewhat of a remedy. The mosca (fly) is another pest damaging both kinds of fruit. It gen- erally appears in the beginning of summer, stinging the fruits arid de- positiug-.therein its eggs, which develop into grubs which destroy the fruit. The gum disease. — Besides those insects, there is also il male della gomma (gum disease), which greatly injures the whole tree, if not pre- vented in time. It makes its first appearance with a small spot on the trunk gradually enlarging to about one inch wide, and, in the course of four days, causes a crack on the bark, wherefrom a white yellowish liquid, like milk, drops out. Said liquid becomes thick and thicker like small gum drops, and in a few days later they look like transparent yellow pearls. According to Professor Cassella's experiments in his grove, where he has saved a great number of trees, to destroy and preserve orchards from such a disease, it seems the following methods are highly recom- mendable, viz: (1). When a plant has been attacked, all the infested parts of the bark and wood are to be cut out and care taken to destroy all the tissues affected by the disease, then take some quicklime, and while it is still warm rub all the wound and especially the parts mostly infected. This done, cover the same to about one-third of an inch thick with the same lime, but cold, and cover the whole with paper or something else. Two mouths later take everything off and you will find the wood with- out any alteration. (2) To preserve the tree from the disease, mix 9 parts of lime and 1 part of ashes, and dissolve the same like whitewash. Then dig a ditch around the tree, about 3 feet in diameter, by unearthing the largest roots of the tree, and pour into the ditch about 30 or 40 liters (7J or 10 gallons) of the compost stuff, and with such a proportion for large, adult trees, treat the others according to age and size. In conclusion, to avoid such disease, for new groves, bitter-orange seed is recommended for planting, and then grafting at pleasure, as above stated. Beplanting. — On replanting young trees for final stay, as per expe- rience had by several orange and lemon growers in this district, I un- derstand that one of the most interesting points is the secret that when said plantingtis to be done, it is necessary to cut the end piece off the main root, about 3 inches long, for the reason that, if left on, it would draw all the humor from the ground, and would also prolong the growth and the trees to bear fruits. I may here give the total production 'of this fruit in the whole Kingdom of Italy. Out of the twelve agrarian regions into which Italy is divided, only in two of them the acid fruit tree is not cultivated, that is, in Piedmont, Emilia, and a part of Lazio. OKA M> LliMONS IN SICILY. 521 According to a statistical report in 1880, by ProfessorCassella, it seems that the ior;»l production of said fruit amounted to as follows, viz: KV.uione meridionale Adriatica 85,000,000 Kfiiiono metidionaie Mediterranea 725,000,000 Regione meridionale Sicilia x. 1,622,000,000 Total fruits 2,432,000,000 VINCENT LAMANTIA, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Catania , January 22, 1890. SICILY. REPORT BY CONSUL JONJBS OF MESSINA. KEEPING QUALITY OF SICILY LEMONS. Properly speaking, no process for curing lemons is employed by the fruit-growers of Messina. That lemons grown in the Messina district keep perfectly for months before being put on the market is due to the great care in gathering, handling, and packing the fruit ; to their keep- ing qualities derived from the nature of soil on which they are grown, climate, and variety cultivated. First. The lemons are gathered with great care, the peduncle being cut (not broken) off smoothly near to the lemon. The fruit is carried to the warehouse in baskets lined with cloth, where it is spread out on the floor (if of wood) or on large mats (if the floor be of stone) and allowed to dry from twenty-four to forty-eight hours — even longer if there is sufficient room in warehouse — but never more than six days. - If lemons piled, say, 4 feet deep are left for any length of time, the first layers become greatly heated, and soon spoil. The fruit, having been carefully selected, is next wrapped in tissue-paper and packed in boxes. Upon reaching the city warehouses the exporters, before shipping, have the boxes re inspected; the least defect in the fruit causes its rejection. When packed for the last time, prior to shipping, care is taken to pack each lemon with its nose down. If the boxes are kept any length of time in warehouses, they are opened every three weeks and each lemon carefully examined. A lemon with a blemish, so slight as to be notice- able, but to an expert, is thrown out as unfit for exportation. Lemon- juice and essence are extracted from these rejected lemons. The fruit contained in each box must be of the same size; an easy matter, owing to the monthly harvestings. Sizers are unknown here. Lemons are gathered from October to August ; they should not weigh less than 80 grams each or average more than from 2 J to 3 inches in diameter when gathered. 522 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. There are three harvests of the true lemon — the November cut, the December-January cut, the April-May cut. The true lemon is produced from the April-May bloom ;~the bastard lemon, from the irregular bloom of February, March, June, and July. The true lemon requires nine months to attain maturity. The true lemon keeps much better than the bastard. Lemons gathered in November are of a deep green color ; after remaining in boxes from six weeks to two months they turn light yellow. Lemons cut and packed in November show 300 to the box ; the same lemons (having shrunk) when repacked in January show 360 to the box ; later shrinkage is scarcely noticeable. The November-cut lemon keeps better than that of any other cut ; shipments of this lemon are frequently made as late as May to New York. Lemons gathered in January are of a bright yellow color and are not kept more than a month in the warehouses here before shipment. Second. The soils best adapted to the lemon are the argillo-calcareous and the calcareo-argillaceous. Sandy soil is not well adopted to lemon culture, as it is too thirsty, etc. The lemon requires an equable climate to produce perfect fruit ; in this district climatic influences are seldom injurious to the fruit. The lemon does best on hill-sides, facing south. It thrives at from one-fourth to two miles from the sea-shore, and at an elevation of 1,500 feet. Little or no chemical fertilizers are used in these groves, and stable manure but sparingly. Water is the great fertilizer on this island. May not our fresh soils and chemical fertilizers affect ( the keeping qualities of California and Florida fruit? WALLACE S. JONES, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Messina, May 30, 1890. SICILY. REPORT BY CONSUL WOODOOOK, OF OATANIA. (Republished from Consular Report No. 41£.) t ORANGES AND LEMONS IN SICILY. In answer to the circular of the Department relative to the culture of the orange, lemon, olive, fig, and raisin, I have the honor to report for niy district as follows: The Catania consular district comprises the southeast third of the island of Sicily and lies between 36° and 38° north latitude, and be- tween 11° and 13° east (Greenwich) longitude. The province of Catania takes in the volcano of .ZEtna and the rich zone of lava soil that surrounds it. The general trend of the land is from the sea-shore upward to the summit of this mountain, which rises ORANGES AND LEMONS IN SICILY. 523 to an altitude of 10,872 feet, being over two miles high. The soil is composed of disintegrated lava, and is among the richest and most pro- ductive of the world. This inclined plane is habitable to within 9J miles of the crater, and is densely populated, the population being 1,424 to the square mile, exceeding that of any other part of Italy. The cli- mate is serai-tropical, temperate, or frigid, in accordance with the alti- tude, the different zones being represented in the vegetable kingdom in the ascent from the sea to the top of ^tna. The climate is here (Catania) in winter mild and salubrious. I have been here since the 1st of October last. Frost is seldom known in this lower altitude. We had none during the past winter, though the citi- zens called it a cold winter. I am forcibly impressed with the similarity of this climate to that of Southern California, having passed several months in that part of the State. From the sea up ward to an altitude of from 700 to 1,000 feet the land- scape is beautified by groves of orange, lemon, fig, and olive trees, and vineyards of grape, all of luxuriant growth. Oranges and lemons are here designated as "marina" (sea coast), growing in the lower altitudes near the sea, and "montane" (of the mountain), growing in the higher altitudes. The* "moutano," or mount- ain fruit, is the choicest, and commands the best prices in the market, but the crop is not so sure, owing to the frost. The marina orchards boar more abundantly, and the crop is considered a certainty. Of the fruits there are two kinds, the oval and the round. The trees that bear the oval fruit are preferred. Those trees that blossom several times during the year are a specialty because of their producing fruit at dif- ferent periods of the season. Of oranges there are four varieties, the round and oval (as above mentioned) and the mandarin and bitter. Of these the oval is pre- ferred for commerce, being more durable. The round is sweeter and larger. These two kinds are the fruit of export. The mandarin is a small orange of excellent flavor, but being more perishable than the other varieties, it is used more for home consumption than export. The bitter orange is very hardy, and is adapted to this climate ; it is grown for the purpose of propagating the other varieties by budding or grafting them upon its stock. Its fruit is used in the manufacture of preserves. The round orange begins to ripen in December, the oval in January. Orange and lemon trees begin to bear full crops when they are from ten to fifteen years old. The time of full bearing depends much upon the climate (altitude), cultivation, and fertility of the soil. As to the length of time the trees will remain fruitful, I find a diversity of opinion. Some say that varieties of the orange and lemon budded upon the bitter orange stock will remain fruitful from one to two centuries; others say from forty to a hundred years. When not thus budded upon the bitter orange stock, but raised from the seed, the trees are short-lived. They 524 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. become diseased ; a gummy substance exudes from them ; a disease cankerous in nature attacks the wood and they soon die. The bitter orange tree will, without doubt, continue to bear fruit for two centuries. The budding process is generally in practice. Grafting is but little resorted to. The process of starting an orange or lemon orchard is as follows: 1 (1) The seed of the bitter orange is planted. When the young plants are a year old they are transplanted. When they have grown to be about one inch in diameter (three or four years old) they are again trans- planted and set in the place in the orchard where they are to remain. The top of the young trees are then cut off about 4 feet above the ground. When they become well rooted and growing, the best varieties of the orange and lemon are budded upon the stalk. Two buds are gener- ally inserted, and upon opposite sides of the plant. From these buds branches shoot out, and when a quarter of an inch in thickness become of a reddish color. The trees of the orange and lemon are subject to various diseases. A parasitic growth of fungus nature frequently appears upon the bark of the trees. Tbe lemon tree is more subject to this than the orange. This growth after a rain (or being soaked with water) is removed by scraping. An insect of a dark brown color called the orange louse is very injurious to both the orange and lemon by infesting the bark, leaves, and fruit. A similar insect of a whitish color, known as the lemon louse, attacks the leaves and fruit of the lemon, but not the orange. The fruit of both the orange and lemon are sometimes injured by an insect called the fly. This insect makes its appearance in the beginning of summer, and commences its devastation by stinging the fruit and depositing therein its eggs. These eggs develop into grubs, which destroy the fruit. Plenty of sunlight and good ventilation are requisite for all these diseases. Tar- water, and water slightly tinct- ured with kerosene are used as a wash for the leaves and fruit, being applied with a sponge. Soda-ash is also used. When the fly first ap- pears the fruit must be frequently washed. These remedies are only of temporary benefit. No remedy has yet been discovered for the permanent destruction of these enemies of the orange and lemon, especially the louse. The distance between the trees to be maintained in planting ki the orchard depends much upon the situation of the ground, the quality of the soil and the climate. The distance varies from 4 to 6 meters (13 to lOJfeet). When the soil is loose, rich, and easily cultivated the lemon trees should be planted at least 6 meters (19 J feet) apart, because, under these circum- stances, the trees grow luxuriantly and become large. When the situ- ation of the ground is such that ventilation will not be good the trees should be 0 meters (19 J feet) apart. Where the soil is poor and the climate cold, so that the trees can not grow large, they may be planted ORANGES AND LEMONS IN SICILY. 525 nearer to each other. The distance to be maintained between orange i is from 4 to 4£ meters (13 to 14 feet). The distance must vary in itli the situation and quality of the soil, as in the case of the lemon. Orange and lemon trees make beautiful the upland and mountain side with their vivid green. They grow luxuriantly in the valleys, and fringe the sea-coast almost to the water line. Those orchards yield the results which are most distant from the sea and are not of such an iiiie as to be affected by the frost. The rich valleys above the sea- level, where an abundance of water can be had for irrigation, abound in the best orchards. Some orchards here reach down to the sea, within 330 feet of the shore. Such a location is of course not desirable for the culture of this fruit. The trees so near the sea are more liable to disease, and the quality of the fruit is not so good as that of the orchards more distant. Artificial irrigation is necessary in this climate. Streams that tumble down from ^Etna are utilized for this purpose. Where this is imprac- ticable, water is elevated from wells by steam or mule power. The ground of the orchards between the trees must be cultivated. It is necessary that the ground be kept perfectly clean. The soil should be worked at least five times a year, commencing in March and ending in October. When the trees are young and small it is not customary to work the soil. It is thought that the vegetable growth protects the youug plants from the too-powerful rays of the sun. Many sections raise crops of vegetables between the trees. This practice, however, is condemned by the best fruit culturists. The cost of cultivation in the best orchards per annum per hectare (2r5Vb acres), on the average, is about 650 lire ($125.45); but where extraordinary outlays must be made for streets through the orchards (as is often the case in this lava-covered soil) and steam power for irri- gation, the cost per annum per hectare (2^-0 acres) may be 2,000 lire G). On the average a lemon tree here produces 1,000 lemons per annum ; an orange tree GOO oranges. There are cases where trees produce ten times this number. The Sicilians regard the best time for gathering the fruit for export is in the mouth of November. The fruit is carefully picked from the tree by hand, caution being exercised not to injure the same by the thorns of the tree or rough handling. The fruit is not rudely thrown into a box, but gently placed in a basket lined with cloth. The stem is left on the fruit, cutting it about a quarter of an inch from the sur- • >f the fruit. Prior to boxing, the fruit is cleaned of insects or other injurious mat- ter. The box used here generally is capable of holding from 250 to 360 of the fruit, there being a partition in the center. It is lined with com- mon silk paper. Each individual fruit is encased in the same kind of 526 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. paper prior to boxing. Care is taken tliatuo nail protrudes in the box to injure the fruit prior to placing it therein. The boxes are not made air tight, but interstices are left between the boards for ventilation. Lemons gathered in the month of November and thus boxed are sup- posed to keep without spoiling for six months. Oranges will not keep so long. The boxes should be occasionally opened, and any infected ones removed therefrom; especially should this be done just prior to shipment. During the year 1882 there were exported to the United States from Catania of oranges and lemons 241,107 boxes, of which the invoiced value was $441,227.72. During the year 1883 there were exported to the United States from Catania 228,857 boxes, invoiced at $324,2c$4.84. For much of the information relative to the culture of these fruits I acknowledge myself indebted to our worthy vice-consul, Mr. Augustus Peratoner, who owns several fine estates upon which are splendid groves of orange and lemon. ALBERT WOODCOCK, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Catania, May 21, 1884. VENETIA. EEPORT BY CONSUL NOTES, OF VENICE. (Reprinted from Consular Report No. 41J.) LEMON CULTURE IN VENETIA. Although the principal center of exotic culture is not found within the consular district of Venice, some account of the circumstances and methods connected with its practice in the province of Yerona may be of i interest to fruit-growers in answer to the inquiries of the Depart- ment. The Lake of Garda, the largest of the Italian lakes, while peAetrat- ing with its northern extremity far into the mass of the Great Alps, opens out into the plain to the south with barely the difference of level necessary to contain its waters, and the more completely it allows the warm air of the plain to penetrate into its deeply embedded mountain recesses the more completely is the tepid element sheltered and isolated from the colder currents of the north. Bathed in this genial atmos- phere, the precipitous shores form a range of natural espaliers, exposed to the southern sun in all its course and enjoying a climate of their own, on which the cultivation of oranges and lemons has been a profitable ORANGES AND LEMONS IN VENETIA. 527 industry for several centimes. It is on the western shore of the lake, in the region of Mreseia, that both fruits are produced witli success; while to tin nd properly within the Venetian territory, the lemon only, being the more hardy, is cultivated to any extent for commerce, the orange being more rarely planted, except for experiment or ornament; its iruit does not generally come to maturity. Cultication. — The lemon is cultivated in the open air and succeeds perfectly, though requiring the nicest care and attention. It demands a soil sufficiently loose and fresh to permit the free passage of solar heat without baking or shrinking, and largely composed of the sub- stances most suitable for the formation of acids, of sweet and aromatic juices, such as the alkalies, and particularly those of potassa and lime. Analysis. — An analysis of the trunk and fruit of the lemon shows in the fruit the presence of 47.48 per cent, of potassa, 22.82 per cent, of lime, and 11.57 per cent, of phosphoric acid; in the trunk, 55.13 per cent, of lime, 17.09 per cent, of phosphoric acid, and 14.76 per cent, of potassa, with smaller proportions of other substances. Manures. — The manure should be of a nature to complete the natural resources of the soil, by still further additions of alkaline and azotated substances ; stable manure, mixed with leaves and sea- weed, and left to decay together till they form a loam, to which may be added powdered lime or plaster of Paris and night soil; some cultivators use also the refuse of the wine and oil press. Propagating. — For propagating the plants, a nursery is generally formed in some spot particularly favorable for soil and exposure, and here the plantation may be made in various ways — with the seed simply, with a portion of root which has already given a sprout, with slips buried till they commenced taking root. From the seed sown in spring the plants are more robust, but such plants always require to be grafted later, which is done sometimes in the simple split, but oftener by the insertion of a bud on some thrifty shoot from one of the lower branches. The young plants remain for six years, more or less, in the nursery, and here, or in the pots or cases to which they are sometimes trans- ferred, they receive the care necessary to bring them to a certain de- gree of vigor and solidity, as well as the pruning and shaping generally to the form of a sphere or hollow vase. Transplanting. — When ready for transplanting, the ground is prepared by digging a broad ditch the whole length of the proposed line of trees, taking care to break the earth as deeply and widely as possible to give free passage for warmth and moisture, and clearing of any stones or large pebbles. The plants are removed from the nursery or case, with the mass of earth adhering to their roots, and set in the earth 9 or 10 inches deep. Care should be taken at the same time to separate and spread any roots too closely grouped together, or tending too much in- ward or downward. In refilling in and around the roots manure should be used liberally, and a slight elevation of earth raised around the spot 528 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. to retain water. The plants are sometimes grafted before this transfer, sometimes only a year or two after. Each plant should have about 25 square yards of open ground around it ; in these intervening spaces, however, small shoots are sometimes cultivated for sale or transplanta- tion, but in all cases the earth should be well spaded during the first year at least, lopping the roots which come too near the surface. The young trees are sheltered during the winter, and the ration of manure for each is prepared beforehand and placed under cover near it for pro- tection from cold, to be well worked into the ground with the first spad- ing, which takes place at the commencement of vegetation in spring. At the same time the tree should be pruned of its dried or weakly branches and leaves, which would become points of attack for mildew or insects, as well as to maintain its compact and advantageous form, and this cleansing operation, after being carefully attended as soon as the advancing season offers some security against returns of cold, should be renewed towards the 1st of July, when the first period of vegetation has well marked the relative vigor and promise of the young shoots. The plants should be watered according to the requirements of the season, using for the purpose water from which the chill has been re- moved by standing in the sun. This is done here mostly by hand with the simple old-fashioned watering-pot. Where the plants are kept in pots or cases, here as elsewhere, they are more for ornament than profit, and in this case the filling is entirely of manure, and should be renewed every three years. At a certain stage of growth, also, it is necessary to transfer the plant to a larger recipient, though one change of the kind is generally sufficient, a case of 2 to 2 £ feet in diameter being large enough for it at almost any age. The operation should not be executed without due precaution. The plant, enveloped in cloths or rags, and lifted gently by ropes and pul- leys, should suffer no violence ; while suspended, the smaller and too extended filaments of root trimmed away, and lowered with its mass of earth undisturbed into its new receptacle on a stratum of fine gravel prepared for it, the empty spaces filled as before with manure and loam well worked into the roots. The plant should then stand in the shade for about eight days, guarded, as far as possible, from sudden changes of temperature, and copiously watered, admitting, however, the external air if in the greenhouse, when the weather permits it. i Finally, and to prove that after all Italy is not the natural home for these delicate products, even with all these precautions, the orange and lemon plants, which thrive here in the open air during summer, can not risk the winter without protection, either in the greenhouse or under provisory sheds of light planking, provided with stoves and con- ducting tubes sufficient to maintain a certain uniformity of temperature in every part of the inclosure. Many cultivators regulate their practice in heating by the simple expedient of placing a vessel of water near the plant, and light their stoves when the water begins to freeze. This, ORANGES AND LEMONS IN THE AZORES. 529 ho \ve\vr, is considered dan^orons, as the injury may be already done before the signal is given or observed, and the plant once attacked by frost is beyond remedy. More careful gardeners use the thermometer, and begin heating when it marks 6° or 7° Fahr. above freezing point, particularly if the weather is clear and dry. With all these risks and precautions the cultivation can not but be regarded as exotic and artificial, and the fruit, though large and hand- some, is watery in quality, with much of its substance taken up by the disproportionate thickness of the rind ; nor has it the concentrated acid of the lemon produced in more congenial climates. The yield, also, is very precarious, and always liable to be prostrated by any extra- ordinary severity of the season. It is estimated for the average year at 500,000 lemons of various sizes, with an average value of 15,000 francs ($3,000). Mo WALLER B. NOTES, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Venice, March 3, 1884. PORTUGAL. THE AZORES. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT MOREIRA, OF ST. MICHAEL'S. Varieties.— The name of best variety for profit is the common orange (Citrus aurantium), or China orange, which is the orange exported. Names of other choice varieties worthy of culture are : the " selecta" (selected) without pips, which never attains a deep color and does not ripen well till March or April; the tangerine, a variety of mandarin, a delicious small orange, but not cultivated to any great extent; a few s are shipped, but of the "selecta" hardly a package is exported. Situation. — The trees that produce the varieties above-named are grown in almost all situations of the island ; distance from sea, from one-half up to three miles ; elevation above sea-level, from 80 to 400 feet; for exposure to sun eastern aspect desirable; they grow in all lands, but level laud is preferable. Soil. — Light soil and also argillaceous mixed with pumice-stone. Climate. — Generally moist. Temperature. — Winter months, minimum, 48°, maximum, 75° ; aver- age, 61°. Summer, minimum, 50°, maximum, 82J°; average, 69J°. Nights generally cold in winter but very warm in summer; few sul- try days; atmosphere moist. Bain-fall averages 40 inches per annum on the lower grounds, but on the higher lands probably 60 inches. Our soil is porous, the rain soon sinks into the ground, and the soil soon dries up, therefore genial 530 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. showers in summer are very beneficial. In some years there are droughts in summer, and the fruit trees suffer much ; consequently the fruit is small and frequently rough. Irrigation. — Irrigation not required. Cultivation. — There is no particular method of cultivation. Fertilizers. — About February lupin is sown broadcast, and when about 2 feet high is dug into the ground ; some people (but very few) sometimes use farm -yard manure, and guano has sometimes been applied. Pruning. — Pruning is not generally practiced before 'the trees attain an age of seven years, and then at about 4 feet from the ground. Picking. — Picking begins about the 15th of November and continues up to March ; the fruit is rot properly ripe until January. Curing and packing. — There is no system of curing. The fruit is packed in boxes containing from 400 to 500 oranges, according to size of fruit, wrapped in Indian -corn leaves. Planting and propagating. — Distance from plant to plant, in rows, 15 to 20 feet. If planted closer, which is sometimes done, the trees shoot up too high and the branches touch one another, preventing the sun from shining into the trees as much as desirable. The trees are now mostly propagated by selecting a healthy branch about half an inch in diameter, taking off the bark all round about an inch in height, then putting round it some sifted soil. When it begins to throw out roots it is cut off from the tree and planted out in beds till it attains a height of at least 3 feet, and then it is ready to be transplanted. They are also propagated by layers, that is, by pegging down the lower branches and grafting in the ordinary way. From seedlings the oranges are better than from layers, but they take a long time before they produce any fruit. Sometimes also the trees are budded. The orchards are from one-third* of an acre up to 20 acres in size. Maturity. — The trees will produce in seven years, not however in large quantities, but the largest crops may be expected when they attain the age of twenty years up to forty years, at which latter period they begin to produce less. There are no insect pests. Many years ago there was a fair quantity of lemons and some were shipped, but now there are very few. Nobody ever thinks of planting lemon trees except for their own use, or for sale in the market, where sometimes 5 cents are given for one. None are now shipped. AU GUSTO S. MOREIRA, Acting Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, 8t. Michael's, Azores, December 31, 1889. ORANGES AND LEMONS IN THE AZORES. 531 THE AZORES. REPORT RY CONSUL DABNEY, OF FAYAL. [Repnolishod from Consular Report No. 41$.] ORANGES AND LEMONS IN THE AZORES. The lemon, never raised in large quantities in these islands, proba- bly been use its quality did not make it a favorite, has become quite ex- tinct as an article of trade in consequence of the liability to disease of the tree roots. The orange of the Azores, the China orange, is a fine fruit, but of so perishable a nature as to be incapable of resisting a long voyage. In Fayai and Terceira it has ceased to be exported, not be- ing able to compete in price with oranges sent from other countries in the markets of England, the only markets really within the reach of so delicate a fruit. At the island of St. Michael, which has always been immensely in advance of the others in point of quantity produced and exported, the trade, for the same reason, although yet an important one, lias diminished very seriously. From the United States consular agent at that island I have obtained the most of the following information regarding the orange culture. The varieties preferred are the " selecta " and the " navel n orange, the Latin names of which he could not obtain. The trees come into full bearing at the age of eight or ten years, and continue to bear until forty or upwards — in by-gone times to a much greater age. They are obtained from seedlings, on which at the proper age the best varieties are grafted, and also by the system of layering; the former are naturally longer-lived trees. The orange tree at St. Michael appears to be subject to a drying up of the branches without any apparent cause and without the presence of any insect or fungus. No remedy has yet been discovered for this, I am told (may it not be from exhaustion of the soil, probably!). It is customary to set out orange trees about twenty-five feet apart. The best orange gardens are some 2 miles from the coast-line. The spaces between the trees are sometimes filled with corn or vegetables, but the more sagacious cultivators abstain from this. Where the garden is de- voted exclusively to oranges it is hoed twice a year, but as a rule not manured 5 never irrigated. The cost of cultivation is estimated at $20 per acre. An acre yields about 40 boxes of a size to contain some 400 oranges j the value at the present time problematical, as the exportation is done by the garden proprietors banded into large companies. Formerly, when more or less of the fruit was bought by speculators on the trees — all expenses being for this account — it was sold at from $1.50 to $2 the " English box,'7 a package equivalent to three Sicily boxes, or contain- ing from GOO to 900 oranges, according to size of fruit. In a good year as many as 250,000 or 300,000 of such boxes were exported from St. 532 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Michael, conveyed by small fast-sailing schooaers, carrying from 600 to 1,200 boxes of that size. Of late years the carrying has been clone by steamers. The Azorean orange has been with few exceptions packed in corn husks, it being found that, liable as it is to decay, the husk, being thicker and firmer than paper, protects the sound ones more effectively from a decayed comrade. The soil of these islands, though generally thin, is fairly productive if rain does not fail too much during the summer months, and it is ob- served that the best oranges are raised on rather a sandy soil ; those from richer ground being thicker skinned and deficient in flavor. The climate is decidedly a damp one, but equable in temperature. The mean annual temperature, deduced from three daily observations of a Fahrenheit thermometer properly placed in the shade, I found to be 62°j the maximum observed being 80° and the minimum 44°. S. W. DABNEY, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE,. Fayal, 'April 24, 1884. SPAIN. REPORl BY CONSULAR AGENT LOEWENSTEIN, OF GRAO. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 41^.] CULTIVATION OF THE ORANGE TREE. I have the honor to forward to you herewith a report on the cultiva- tion and propagation of the orange tree in this province. It was made out after consulting the most eminent cultivators and authors, and my fervent desire is that this paper may be useful to some of the lesser- instructed cultivators of this tree in the United States. CLIMATE. The orange tree does not thrive in the open air except a^bove 43° latitude, and then in sheltered spots, where the earth always preserves a temperature above congealmeut at a depth of 0.02m to 0.03m. In these cases the sap of the roots, which is always in mo vein out in the trees of permanent leaves even in winter, defends the exposed parts of the tree from congealment. The thermometer has been known as low as 10° Keauniur without the orange trees perishing, because such tem- perature was not sufficiently continuous to penetrate to any depth in the soil, besides which the thaw that succeeded was accompanied with a cloudy sky. In short, the orange tree can be cultivated with perfect security in the open air where the temperature is not lower than 3° CULTIVATION OF THE ORANGE TREE IN SPAIN. 533 Reaumur. In the spots most favored this condition is not met with at a greater altitude than thatof 400 meters. When the average temperature readies from 15° to 16° the apparent vegetation of the orange tree comiMiMuvs, which, as a rule, takes place in the month of March. Tlie blossoming requires a mean temperature of 18° centigrade, Reaumur, the tirst flowers appearing in April and frequently continuing through- out the whole of May. The blossoms are found on the " secondary branches, but principally on the tertian ones, or in general those formed during the previous year; but this rule, which is the most regular, is not the same everywhere. Selling the fruit too late, and the consequent working and manuring of the grounds (by reason thereof) out of the proper time for so doing, besides which, in consequence of the scarce- ness of irrigation in summer for want of water, a great disorder in the natural course of vegetation is occasioned. With reference to the height above sea-level, the majority of the orchards range between 4 and 30 meters. The temperature of this province, Valencia, is very mild, and while it seldom reaches as low as zero, many parts are protected from north winds by different mountains. The climate of the districts where the orange tree is cultivated in- Valencia is, as aforesaid, benign, as is shown by the fact that the orange, lemon, citron, palm, locust bean, and various other trees, as also shrubs, all of which are delicate, thrive freely in the open air. Further, the jujube, fig, pomegranate, almond, and olive trees, the vine, and the sugar cane, also flourish here luxuriantly. The dwarf fan-palm grows spontaneously. The rSsume of the meteorological observations made and published during the year from 1st December, 1881, to the 30th of November, 1882, at the Observatory of Valencia, is as follows (barometer being in milli- meters and at zero, thermometer of Reaumur, centigrade) : Meteorological observations. Millimeters. Average pressure of barometer 762. 97 Maximum pressure of barometer (January 17) 781. 01 Minimum pressure of barometer (October 27) 745.94 Oscillation 35.07 Degrees. Average temperature 16.2 Maximum temperature in the sun (September 30) 43.0 nre in the shade (July 10) 3G. 0 Mi iii in u in temperature in the air (December 27 and January 6) 1.1 Minimum temperature in the reflector (December 27 and January 6) 0. 0 Average oscillation of temperature 13.3 imidity 61. 0 Maximum of hujnidity (May 17) 94.0 Minimum of humidity (April 25) 20.0 Average tension 11.0 Maximum tension (August 19) , 23.9 534 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Degrees. Minimum tension (December 24) 3.0 Average evaporation 9. 1 Maximum evaporation (July 8) 24. 0 Total of evaporation 3,340.9 Rainy days 48 Days of inappreciable rain 22 Stormy days 7 Day s of snow -- 1 Rain-fall during the year 420.5 Rain-fall, maximum (September 7) 92. 0 Kilometers. Average velocity of wind 283 Maximum velocity of wind (February 26) 962 Minimum velocity of wind (January 1 and August 30) 40 Frequency of the winds. (Observed twice during the year.) North 70 Northeast — 134 East 126 Southeast 105 South 11 Southwest 37 West 130 Northwest 117 Atmospheric state. Clear days .. — ., 167 Cloudy days * .- 97 Covered days 101 Days of calm 51 Daj's of breeze . 274 Days of wind 39 Days of storm 1 The rain when the weather is not stormy is nearly always accom- panied by south or southeast winds, and the rainiest months of the year, or at least those when the rains which are most beneficial for the soil occur, are November, February, and April, although in consequence of the great felling of trees, which has taken place during the present century, as also owing to unknown causes, the rains are muchness fre- quent than they were last century. In this province electricity exists to a very great extent in the atmosphere by reason of the dryness of the climate and the pureuess of the sky, especially in the mountainous districts. SOIL. The greater portion of the soil in this region is tribasic, cretace- ous, and tertiary, and contains a large proportionate admixture of clay, sand, and lime, which is the true reason why the earth in this prov- ince is so very fertile, as is proved by the luxuriant vegetation, the CULTIVATION OF THE ORANGE TREE IN SPAIN. 535 variety of produce, and the richness of this fortune-favored district. Tfie color of the earth in the parts where there is no irrigation is, in general, red, but this changes to gray when irrigation commences' and manure is employed. In parts where vegetable refuse and abun- dance of farm manure form the greater portion of the soil, the color in- clines to black. The soil should be at least one meter in depth and should be subject to irrigation. It should further be of a middle consistence, silicious- argillaceous, or argillaceous-calcareous, rather damp, but without being humid. Chalky soils, more or less pure, those completely silicious, and those which are compact argillaceous, with constant humidity, are use- less. In the two first the manures decompose rapidly before being of service to the roots, and they require excessive irrigation, which weak- ens the soil and exhausts it. In the latter the excessive humidity which is constantly retained deprives the roots of atmospheric influence and causes putrefaction. A soil composed of clayey marl or a light clay mixed with sand is most suitable for the cultivation on a large scale of orange, lemon, and other trees of the same family. The soils where the orange-tree thrives well are of very distinct composition, as there are as many orangeries on santly as on clayey one's, but those most com- pact should not contain more than 65 per cent, of fine earth (with less than 0.005 millimeter diameter), and on reaching this limit they should have a sandier earth for subsoil. The same extreme limits which the orange- tree admits in its physical composition are also admitted by the soil with regard to the quantity of lime contained in it, for while in cer- tain districts (Benifayo) the earth contains no carbonate of lime, in other parts 18.29 per cent, is found, and recently a calcareous earth has been examined, the same being of great depth, and has been found to con- tain 57.22 per cent, of said carbonate ; notwithstanding the same, the orange-trees thrive well. These earths are also rich in potash, and con- taiu this matter in an exceedingly large quantity in a form that may be considered as assimilable with the tree, so that in such districts there is no necessity of employing potash for manure. Of the other alimental principles of the plants, there is in general a limited quantity of phos- phoric acid, and in some parts an addition of magnesia. The extraordinary foliage acquired by the orange-tree in a loose soil, which at the same time contains what is necessary for its proper develop- ment, may be fully appreciated in the districts of Alcira and Carcagente, in this province, which districts are the center of production, and the soil in which is loose and of great depth. A simple analysis of a sam- ple of earth taken from Carcagente showed that it did not effervesce with acids, whilst a sample from Alcira did, and abundantly. The anal- of 100 grams of earth from Alcira gave, salt of lime (carbonate), 20 per cent. ; sand (silicate), 70 per cent.; clay, 10 per cent. This an- alysis, which was lightly made, is sufficient to give an idea of the soil in which the orang3-tree thrives to perfection. 15GA 10 536 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Thus it is that in other parts (Castellon de la Plana), where the soil is most compact, the growth is slower ; in years when there is a scarcity of water and the orchards are not irrigated at the proper season, the earth becomes so compact as to prevent the growth of the small life- giving roots, besides depriving them of the beneficial effect of the at- mospheric air, and as these roots cannot then properly nourish the trees, the latter, little by little, harden, or, in other words, the trunk and branches lose the green color they should have, which manifests the abundance of sap contained by them, and which is what preserves them tender, a thing so necessary for their growth. From the preceding it will be seen that it is necessary to well examine the soil (should one have the idea of converting it into an orange gar- den) before incurring any expense, not only examining the surface, but also the subsoil, as there may be some parts where the soil is loose and of good quality on the surface, but very compact and bad beneath, or vice versa. By attending to this the proprietor will know what may be expected from said ground and to what cultivation it would be advisa- ble to dedicate it. PROPAGATION. Orange trees may be propagated the same as any other fruit tree, either from seed, whichis the natural way of multiplication, or from cuttings, which is artificial. The first system, viz, from seed, perpetuates the species and gives origin to new descriptions, afterwards improved by cultivation. The second method, either from shoots, cut- tings, or grafting, continues the race and at the same time accelerates the fruitage, which is always later with the trees produced by the first- named system, but in exchange the trees raised from seed are more ro- bust and live to a much greater age. The oldest orange trees found^n this province clearly demonstrate that the primitive trees were raised from seed. The sweet orange does not thrive well when raised from shoots, and in order to obtain a good result it is necessary to recur to tightly bandaging them so as to favor the accumulation of juices, which contribute to the acceleration of the unfolding of the underground shoots. The bitter orange is more easily cultivated. The following means have been employed, and are still being ised, as by the same froudose trees, bearing a large quantity of fruit, and this of good quality, are obtained. Said means are these : First, a flower- pot is obtained, composed of two pieces, which can be easily fastened together either with wire or strong twine passed round them at the top and also at the bottom. Then some straight branches of about the thickness of two fingers must be selected, and if said branches are very long they should be cut down to the length of 1 £ meters ; then the part that has to be placed in the center of the flower-pots is barked all round for about 1J inches, and immediately bound up with esparto-grass cord- ing. As soon as this is done the flower-pots are put together and filled CULTIVATION OF THE ORANGK TliKK IN SPAIN. 537 \\itii earth and stable manure, well mixed together and watered; after this they are watered once a week. At the end of a year the roots that have formed fill nearly the inside of the flower-pots, and then the branches at the lower exterior part of these are sawn off and the new orange trees taken to the spot where they are to be planted. For plant- ing them there is only to cut the wire or string holding the flower-pots rlier, and if they are well looked after they will commence bearing fruit at the end of two years. The slips of the sweet-orange tree rarely strike root, or at least such is the experience of farmers here who have tried it. Till the disease of the orange tree occurred some years back, the prop- agation was generally effected by grafting the orange on a slip of lemon tree, but since then cultivators have only directed their attention to obtaining vigorous plants from the seed, on which are afterwards grafted cuttings; and the seed most preferred are Niranjo dulce franco, Bigarado franco, and Bigarrado Gallesio ; further, should short shoots l»e required, the trunk should be raised from the seed of the sweet orange. Those raised from the seed of the bitter orange, either/rawco or that called Gallesio, are more vigorous, more luxuriant, and of longer duration, besides which they better resist the cold, for which reason they are preferred and chosen for the trunks of the trees of tall growth. The fruit of the first named is considered the best. The last system of propagation, being that adopted in this province, viz, grafting on & franco trunk, a series of operations takes place, such as the establishment of a nursery for raising plants from the seed, a plantation of young trees, grafting, and transplanting. NTJESERIES. The soil where this is effected must be of good quality, free from creeping herbs or weeds, and it must be in a good position so as to receive the sun in all parts, besides which it must have an abund- ance of water for irrigation. All seeds are sown in flat plots, and if they are delicate the soil is manured with a small quantity of well- rotted dung finely minced so as to allow of its better distribution and at the same time produce more beneficial effects; the soil is also exca- vated and loosened so as to give the plant greater freedom for growing. These plots, when prepared, are opened out in parallel rows of about four inches deep and one foot distance between each. The means generally adopted in this province for the establishment of these nurseries are as follows : The raising from seed, when on a small scale, is done in large boxes, but when on a scale of any impor- tance it is done in the soil. This last is greatly preferred, because the plants have more roots on account of having more space for develop- ment. Although the temperature of this zone is very benign, it is nev- ertheless necessary to select a sheltered spot for the nursery, taking care that the soil be rich, nutritive, of sufficient depth, and possessing 538 FKUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. means for irrigation. Having everything prepared, the next thing is to obtain the quantity of seeds required for sowing when the proper time comes around; The general method is 'to divide the orange with a knife, taking care not to cut it so deeply as to touch the seed, so as to in nowise injure them ; these are then picked out and placed in the shade to dry, after which they are preserved, either in paper packets or earthernware pots, in a (Iry place. Other methods for obtaining seed are adopted, but the preceding is considered as the best. Once the seed is perfectly obtained, should- it not be required for use within a short time or period, it should be placed in layers in sand, so as to prevent its getting too dry and opening. A thing of the greatest im- portance is the selection of the orange from which to obtain the seed. Some nurseries have been planted with seed obtained from the No- vember orange, and but few trees have been obtained, only a small quantity of seed germinating. The seed of more seasoned oranges come up in greater number and with more strength, in addition to which the plants are much more vigorous, Nurseries may be created with the June orange, the fruit at said period being perfectly seasoned, but this is considered too late, and the frost or cold would catch the plants whilst still very tender. The average season for planting the nurseries is from the middle of February till the middle of April, thus concili- ating everything : first, because the seed then obtainable is good j and, secondly, there is sufficient time for the young plants to acquire suffi- cient strength to resist the cold weather ere the winter sets in. As the time approaches when the seed should be sown, the soil where such is to be effected is properly prepared, being watered and, when in fit condition, well dug up. If the earth is very compact and composed of hard lumps, these are well broken up and smoked, and made up in hormigueros, which are heaps of dry vegetable refuse covered over with earth, having a small opening near the ground in which is introduced a wisp of straw. On setting fire to the straw the whole mass gradually consumes itself, forming a small heap of vegetable ashes and earth. The ashes of the hormigueros are equally distributed over the surface of the soil, and immediately afterwards this is manured with stable dung, which should have been left to rot in sand, and which must be old and as fine as the sand. This has first to be watered to ^keep it moist, and when the proper season arrives a good watering has to be given it, after which it is spread over the surface. When the space to be cultivated is limited, the mixture of stable dung and sand is per- formed with a spade, and the ground is not plowed. The ground has to be divided in long and narrow plots, having small irrigating canals between each, which must be sufficiently deep so as not to allow of the water reaching the superficies of the rows, as should it do so it would have the effect of hardening the earth, which should always be loose, so as to obtain a good result. The seed should be soaked in water for a couple of days, and after- CULTIVATION OF THE ORANGE TREE IN SPAIN. 539 wards tlnVkly sown, to provide against the eventuality o! defective and not germinating. There are some who immediately cover the seed with a coating of fine manure of about 1J to 2 inches, while there are others who employ a mixture of river sand and stable dung; but experienced cultivators say that the sand often injures the stalk of the tender shoot. It seems that in order to obtain the most favorable result a covering is made of earth from a pine forest, virgin earth, the greater portion dung. When this is not obtainable, then dry, arable ground which is very loose. Having arrived so far, two things are necessary, viz, that the soil be al\\a\s damp, and that the earth covering the seed be loose, not offering any opposition to the unfolding and shooting of the tender plant. This is obtained by watering the nursery every two or three days after sunset, and still better by doing so before sunrise, using a watering-pot with a long spout. When the orange trees are about 2 inches high or more, then irriga- tion by means of the canals at the sides of the rows will suffice. The young plants are from four to six weeks before appearing above the surface, and sometimes more, and the plants are kept in the nur- sery for one or two years, according to the state of their development. The chief things to be observed with the seedlings are : (1) The earth should always have a certain amount of humidity. (2) The plant should be kept perfectly clean, and should weeds spring up these should be rooted out with a small weeding-hook. (3) When the young plants come up close together they should be separated so as to admit the proper development of those which give promise of thriving, and allow those separated to thrive in other spots where transplanted. (4) If the ground is sufficiently manured the young plants have sufficient nutri- ment until reaching the height of about 10 inches or even more. If the soil is not properly manured, then it is necessary to assist the plant by using Peruvian guano, and for doing this various growers dis- solve a small quantity of guano with the water in the watering-pot, and thus apply it to the plants ; but should the watering take place by means of the small irrigating canals, the guano is placed at the entry of the water into said canals, and is thus conveyed all over the nursery. Planting. — As soon as the young plants have acquired a certain de- velopment in the nursery, which sometimes occurs at the end of one year and sometimes at the expiration of two, the plantation has to be commenced. This generally takes place from the middle of February to the beginning of March, according to the condition of the plants. It is commenced by arranging the soil in the same manneras for the nursery, and when this is done the nursery is well watered, so as to enable the young plants to be rooted out without injuring them. Some cultivators advise the taking up of the young plants with the earth adhering as thick as mud, while others counsel that they should be transplanted with a ball of earth attached to the roots, although 540 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. said ball be of small size, so that the plants should lose less. With a mountain knife, or other similar garden tool, a series of holes are made of superficial depth, to admit the roots of the young plants, which are placed in same conditions as they were in the nursery. The orange trees are planted in the plantation at a distance of from 40 to 50 centimeters apart, if wished to be of short trunk ; but should the contrary be desired, they are planted at a greater distance from each other. On transplanting the young trees, a series of light beds are made and the trees are planted at the base of the same and in regular files, but on the opposite side of the beds to that where they are irri- gated, thus preventing the water from reaching the young shoots. Now and then the top soil is loosened with a weeding-hook, and thus the beds gradually get lower, until at last they are level with the sur- rounding earth at the time when the plants have taken firm root and are flourishing. The plantation is irrigated once in every three weeks in ordinary weather, but oftener should it be very dry ; and about at the end of two or three months after transplanting, say in July or August, a small quantity of guano or of rotten dung may be applied. At the expiration of a year in the plantation, the young trees are suffi- ciently advanced for grafting, should they have been tended with great care and are required for trees of short trunk ; but should they be re- quired to be of long trunk, every means should be availed of for favor- ing the development of the terminal bud. To this end, every year, about June, by means of nipping, the too forward growth of the lateral buds is checked. In April, branches, leaves, and thorns on the lower half of the stem are cut off, as are also the lateral branches above the same which are vigorous. This same care is bestowed every year until the stem, straight and devoid of knots, reaches a height of from 1J to 2 meters, when grafting is effected on its upper part. Should any of the plants take a crooked direction, they are cut off in April of the second year at about 10 cen- timeters from the surface of the soil, when they shoot afresh during the summer, and when the shoots have reached a height of about 20 cen- timeters the most vigorous are selected and the rest done away with. In this province, trees of short trunk are those invariably grown, con- sequently this last plan is but little, if at all, availed of. i GRAPTING. This is one of the most important means for the propagation of the orange tree. Grafting consists in the insertion of a branch or cutting of one plant into another, which operation has to be carefully done, so that both may unite and ultimately form a single plant growing on the same stem. Grafting is also done on a plant with some of its own shoots. Grafting is principally performed with the object of procuring flowers, leaves, wood, or fruit of superior quality or more merit than that previ- ously obtained. CULTIVATION OF THE ORANGE TREE IN SPAIN. 541 Grafting also serves for the propagation of many trees and boshes, both exotic, rare, and delicate, by employing specimens of wild, rustic, and strong plants that may be analogous, or of the same family, so as to improve the budding of the branches of a plant which has become stripped of same (in the regions where the cultivator wishes to augment the growth and reproduce the species), and also to unite on a single branch the male and female flowers of vegetables normally u dicecians," which are thus converted into "moncecians," and their fertilization vastly improved. The " graft " is the name given to the shoot, or branch, etc., inserted in another, and u parent" is that in which it is grafted; and the plant obtained is called u franco " when both are raised from the same class of seed, and " bastard " when from different species. With all grafting it is necessary to put similar textures in contact, and above all the generating layers or vegetative zones of both parent and graft, and at the same time impede the access of air and light to the uncovered p;irt, or the wound. It is not, as it is generally believed, the joining of the bark which contributes to the perfection of the grafting, but rather of that generative texture or cambium which exists between the white wood and the bark, by which is effected the growth in diameter of the flidoneos, vegetable substances. In order to obtain a successful result, the operations should be per- formed in fine and temperate weather. The parent plants should be carefully selected, not too young, as although the grafting might be successful, they would be long in bearing fruit, notwithstanding that would be frondose; neither too old, because although giving fruit sooner, they are of little duration ; further, those selected must be per- fectly sound, well formed, and possessing a clean bark. There are four >ns when the operation of grafting may be performed, viz, at the impulse, at the time of shooting, at the time of vivifying, and when sleeping. Grafting at the impulse is done when the movement of the sap com- mences and the buds begin to wake out of the lethargic state in which they had been all the winter, but before they have unfolded. The sea- son for doing this is from the middle of February till the commencing of April, and it is done by grafting twigs of the previous year. Graf ling at time of shooting is when the sap is at its greatest activity and when the shoot has attained half or three-quarters part of its defi- nite growth. This system is generally carried into operation from the commencement of April till end of May, and the ingrafted shoot availed of is a tender shoot of the same vigor as that of the portion of the par- ent plant where it is to be ingrafted. Grafting at time of vivifying is so called because it is done at the sol- stice and when the shoots commence to put forth their second sprouts, which occurs from about the end of May till the end of June. The cut- tings for grafting on vivifying are selected from twigs of the same year. drafting when sleeping is done at the equinox in September, and only 542 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. differs from the previous system in that the graft on vivifying com- mences immediatly to shoot, whereas that grafted whilst sleeping does not commence to move until the following spring. The system may begin to be adopted from the end of August till about the middle of October. A successful result greatly depends on the intelligence, skill, and care of the grafter, as also on other conditions that may be possessed by him. The young shoots to be grafted are frequently spoilt by workmen whose hands perspire copiously, and the same also occurs from bad breath either from disordered stomach or smoking to any extent, in the cases where the grafter is accustomed to hold the ingrafted shoots and buds between the teeth whilst preparing the patron. The object of the ligatures is to subject and fasten the graft to the parent tree, and those are best which possess sufficient elasticity not to either tighten or loosen too much, ,as also suffer but little from atmos- pheric influences, and further they should be of slight cost and easy ac- quirement, preference being given to those belonging to the animal kingdom, such as raw and carded wool, worsted, silk, or horse hair. Of the vegetable kingdom the following are best: hemp, flax, esparto, enea, reed-mace, various flexible barks, and the leaves of certain trees possessing the same property. With the graftings it is necessary that the cuts and wounds in the patron should be properly covered and protected with substances suit- able for said purpose, and which ought to combine the advantages of slight cost, easy manipulation, shortness in preparation, duration, and perfect protection. The materials most generally employed are the fol- lowing : Grafter's clay, which is of ancient use, and is composed of two- third parts of clayey soil and one-third of cow dung, well mixed to- gether ; and to this are sometimes added dry herbs chopped very fine, and by some a small portion of salt is also employed in the mixture. Softened pitch is also made use of, not alone, as it would dry and peel off, but melted with a corresponding quantity of wax or tallow, or of resin and tallow, to which is added red earth or brick-dust. A good receipt for this mixture is as follows : Kilos. Resin 1.250 Pitch l. 0.750 Tallow 0.'250 Earth 1.500 This composition should be applied tepid, but not very warm, as in this case it would injure the plant. When a good variety has been obtained from seed, it is so subject to injury or loss from any casualty that the plants are generally grafted in order to preserve them. When the cultivator wishes robust and bushy trees of long vitality, the grafting is done with trees of the same species, but should he wish to obtain trees less robust and either of medium size or dwarf, he does this (although at the expense of obtaining a tree CULTIVATION OF THE ORANGE TREE IN SPAIN. of lesser duration) by grafting on analogous parent trees of a distinct species to the grafts, on account of such gratis requiring a greaior quantity of sap than can be given them by the respective parent plants, for which reason they remain small, have but few branches and roots, and the buds are of but brief duration. As a general rule two cuttings are grafted on the same trunk, some times with the object of greater certainty, and sometimes for the purpose of the trees sooner forming their top. With reference to the numerous buds that appear when the graft commences moving, all are suppressed except those nearest to where the grafting was made in order to draw the sap towards said point. Should they develop too much, the points are (Hit oft', which is done when the graft attains a length of Om.15. The universal system employed in this province for grafting of orange trees is the following: If the nursery has been well cared for, at the end of a year the small free orange trees are grafted, whilst those •which from some special circumstances have not sufficiently developed are kit lor the following year, and it is recommended that the grafting should be done in that part of the nursery where the plants are thickest, as being very close together impedes the moisture from disappearing from the soil, the sun not being able to penetrate through the plants to evaporate the dampness, as it can when the plants are scattered or isolated. This should be greatly studied in those parts where water is scarce in summer, and it is the plan followed by the majority of culti- vators who have nurseries. Nearly all systems of grafting may be eif ployed with orange trees, but. in this province the only one now universally adopted is that of the grafting of a bud, which gives excellent results, giving preference either to the method ufjouette (d ojo vclando) or to that ofvidry (de ojo dormitlo), according to the season when the grafting is effected, viz, the first from April till end of June and the second from August to October. One of the most intelligent cultivators of orange trees in this province grafts when the sap is moving, doing so from the time it commences to move until St. Peter's day (end of June), and also when the sap is dormant, which is from August till October, cutting the shoot in February. The buds for grafting are taken from the center of the tree, as it has been found that if taken from the lower part the branches of the tree pro- duced always incline towards the earth, and young twigs are not liked, as they produce large trees bearing but little fruit. The buds for grafting are selected from those of the previous year and of the June shooting, and, according to the size of the parent stem, one, two, four, etc., are placed, for should the parent stem be thick and* have only one bud grafted on it the excess of sap would suffocate it. On plac- ing the buds, the parent stein is probed and they are applied to the most salient parts which this may present, because it is considered that it is here where tin-re is the greatest quantity of sap, an0 Oxide of iron 102 Hydrochloric acid y Total 675 The general composition of these 30,000 kilograms of stable manure may be summed up thus : Kilograms. Mineral constituents 675 Nitrogen 120 Carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen ..., . 5.205 Moisture .* 24,000 30,000 Suppose 30,000 kilograms of such manure to have been applied to one hectare of ground from which a crop of 16,000 kilograms of fruit has been raised, let us see what mineral constituents have been replaced and what proportion is still wanting. Constituents. Contained in crop. Supplied by mail ure. Deficiency. Potash Kilogram*. 115 06 Kilograms. m Kilograms. Excess Soda 58.36 8 50 36 Lime 171.99 144 27.99 MM9Mtfe 51 50 60 Excess. Phosphoric acid .... . .................. 114. 43 51 63.43 6.17 30 RxcfeMi Siliceous acid . ... ... ... 25.69 150 27.80 102 Excess. 9 Excess. The deficiency of lime may be left out of consideration here, as there is generally a very large amount of this constituent stored up in the soil ; there remains, therefore, to be dealt with the deficiency of soda and of phosphoric acid. The first may be met by the addition of common sea- salt to the extent of 300 kilograms. The 63 to 64 kilograms of phos- phoric acid may be supplied by adding either 1,000 kilograms of fowl manure, 400 kilograms of guano, or 300 kilograms of ground bones. The nitrogen withdrawn by a crop of 16,000 kilograms weighs 136 kilograms ; supplied in 30,000 kilograms of manure, 120 kilograms- showing a deficiency of 16 kilograms, for the supply of which may be added either ordinary stable manure, 4,000 kilograms ; fenta desecada 576 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. (dry cow-dung), 1,000 kilograms ; or pigeon-dung, guano, or bones, 300 kilograms. From the above data it appears that the following mixture may ad- vantageously be applied to each hectare thus cropped : Kilograms. Manure ................. .................................................. 30,000 Ground bones ............................................................ 600 Seasalt ............. . ..................................................... 300 Yield and cos£.— The yield of the orange tree, admitting all other con- ditions to be equal, must necessarily vary according to age and species. In Castellon the product is stated at from 400 to 500 oranges per tree at tea years old, but full productivity is not reached before from six- teen to twenty years. In Valencia the product per hectare is given at 15,000 kilograms, equivalent to about 107,000 oranges, allowing about 140 kilograms per 1,000. Very large single trees, of course, give occa- sionally extraordinary yields. There are in Mairena del Alcon (province of Seville) two colossal trees known as u Los Migueletes," of which each has been known to yield up to 38,000 oranges in one year. Large and robust trees having attained their full growth frequently yield from 2,000 to 5,000 each, but in planting on a large scale, from 800 to 1,000 per tree is all that can be assumed as a fair average yield. In the dis- trict of Seville the product of an orchard of full-grown trees is reckoned at 180 cases, worth on the ground about 10 pesos ($1.93) per case. The cost of exploitation is summed up approximately as iollows : Pesos per . hectare. Rent of ground ; also interest and amortization of working capital invested. . 500 Irrigation (raising water, usually by animal-power) ........................ 80 Manure (34,000 kilograms) ................................................ 272 Hoeing, weeding, pruning, and harvesting ................................. 250 Plowing (with oxen usually) .............................................. 90 Proportion of cost of keeping one horse or mule for hauling ................ 70 Sundries and unforeseen expenses ............... . .......................... 60 Total expenses annually ............................................ 1, 322 Taking gross product as above at .......................................... 1, 800 Leaving net profit .................................................. 478 From which, however, an impost of 20 per cent, must be deducted, leaving the grower, therefore, 382.40 pesos per hectare (equal to $29.87 per acre) as final net income. Calculating the total annual cost of cul- tivation at 1 ,500 pesos per hectare, this represents a return of something over 25 per cent, on the rolling capital thus employed. The total yield of the orange and lemon orchards in Spain was (in 1879) estimated at 119,437,439 kilograms, which, at the rate of 12 pesos per 100 kilograms, gives a total value of 14,332,492 pesos, and the area cultivated was given as 8,362 hectares. The rate of 12 pesos per 100 kilograms is a low one, and is, moreover, only applicable to the fruit in the orchards, before packing and transportation expenses have been incurred. There seems ORANGES AND LEMONS IN BARCELONA. 577 good reason also to believe that the quantity of the crop was under- estimated, as by deducting the quantity exported in that year the re- mainder for home consumption would be deinoustrably below even a very moderate estimate. Exports. — The following are the latest official figures showing the total exports of oranges and lemons from Spain : ORANGES. Years. Quantity. Value. Pegof. A vera tre of 5 years, from 1877-'81 M.. 673,199 10,366,003 Calendar year 1881 M.. 599,562 8,993,430 Calendar year 1882 kilograms.. 116,667,600 'J9.166.900 LEMONS. Average of 5 years, from 1877-'81 kilograms.. 4,971,089 694,790 Calendar year 1881 do.... 5,392,916 970,725 Calendar year 1882 do.... 5,415,503 974,791 The destination of these exports for the year 1882 is given as follows: Countries. Oranges. Lemons. Kilograms. Kilograms. Germany 81,760 929,952 Algeria 17,500 8.530 Belgium 817,880 69,175 France 19.448,660 1,094,568 Holland 203,840 248,019 Great Britain 87,131,800 1,229,033 Italy 2,240 16,358 Sweden 4,060 29,644 United States « 8,843,240 1,695,302 Porto Rico 116,620 Russia 27,525 Portugal 2,000 Denmark 53,125 Gibraltar _ 4,180 Morocco 392 Dominion of Canada 7,680 Total 116,667,600 5,415,503 NOTE. — Up to 1881, inclusive, the orange exports were entered in thousands. ERNEST L. OPPENHEIM, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Consul. Cadiz, February 29, 1884. BARCELONA. REPORT BY CONSUL SCHEUCIT. ORANGES. Varieties. — Not all the varieties of orange trees are known to fls, for behfg indigenous to the tropical regions of Asia, not all were brought over to Europe where about one hundred and seventy species have been 578 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. described by botanists ; but seventy-seven kinds are particularly known and divided into thirty-two of sour and forty-five of sweet oranges. Of the latter only the ten species mentioned in my report of 1874 are culti- vated for their commercial importance, in this province; of these the most valuable is the common, middle-sized orange, heavy in hand, of very fine peel, aromatic smell, and containing a great amount of juice of great sweetness, spiced by an agreeable dash of sourness. Although there is also another very sweet orange called Imperial and Orange of the Queen, this early orange makes its appearance in the market at the end of October, when the same is exported to France and Algiers, and consumed in Spain. None of these oranges are exported to the United States nor to England, where they are not liked, for they are of too great a sweetness, without tartness, and found unpalatable, there- fore of a limited cultivation. The best results in this country are yielded by the open orchards in the districts of Alcira, Oarcajente, and of Gandia, in the valley between the city of Valencia and the mountain chain which limits the province, facing the south and being sheltered from the north winds by said mountains; these orchards produce the finest and sweetest oranges, enjoying higher prices in the market than those of the district of Cas- tellon, less shielded from the north winds, and producing oranges of a more inferior quality and prices ; they also ripen later than the first. /Situation. — Some years ago a Frenchman founded in this port an important agricultural establishment called " La Malvarosa," situated about half a mile from the very sea-shore where he cultivates with ex- cellent results oranges on a large scale. Notwithstanding, on the road from this port (Grao) to Valencia, distant about 3 miles, and in the public gardens in and round this city, they grow very poorly, yielding only a few small and sour fruits, while in the botanical garden on the west end of the city they grow with satisfactory results. The soil of this locality is very sandy, and the subsoil may want cer- tain] elements and proper consistency in order to form a soil able to produce oranges in perfection. Before risking his capital the owner of the land should examine its topographic situation, analyze the surface and subsoil to the depth of 1£ to 2 meters, and consider the possibility of irrigation. The best soil of Alcira, Carcajente, and Gandia analyzed, gave: Sand (silicate), 70 per cent. ; clay, 10 per cent., and salt of lime (car- bonate), 20 per cent. Cultivation. — Excepting some rare cases, such ground is not culti- vated, and when so, then the distance between the rows of the trees, which generally is from 3 to 5 meters, must be from 6 to 7 meters, and consequently at the expense of a certain number of trees planted less in a given space. An intelligent orange-grower never cultivates the ground between the trees, as such would make difficult the free access of airing the same, and tilling of the ground round each tree in a space of 3 meters in diame ORANGES AND LEMONS IN BARCELONA. 579 ter, the irrigation of trees from the top by pumps, and examines the roots in case of certain diseases. Moreover, the plants cultivated between the trees would act as parasites, exercising a pernicious influence upon the trees and fruits, which become less in quality-, quantity, and size, and are more exposed to diseases. This is also the reason why the oranges grown in closed gardens, where the ground between the trees is often cultivated, are less valuable than those grown in orchards with free ground. Yield. — The creation of an orchard should always be executed by the owner of the laud and not by a farmer, because then all will be done in due order j he will select a good plantation and prepare the ground con- veniently ; he will not cultivate the ground between the trees; all the labor can take place in due time and the unfolding of the trees will progress more uniformly and better. At the end of ten years he will have recouped himself; moreover the benefit and the orangery will be in a better shape of production, duplicated or triplicated the value of the land and consequently also the rent and assured the progressive augmentation of production after the end of the first ten years. It is very difficult to give with exactness a valuation of the yield and cost of an orchard, which may vary accordiug-to circumstances, but all circumstances being equal, the production must be by far greater in the vigorous and virgin soil of America than in that exhausted of Europe. The following is the average yield and cost of the creation and culti- vation of an orange orchard in a field of 8 hanegadas, distant 2 miles from a town, with high road and natural irrigation by a canal. One hanegada valenciana, equal to 831.10 square meters, or the -g^ of 1 acre. One arroba valenciaua, equal to 12.888 kilograms. One real, equal to 5 cents American money. Cost during the first ten year •«.* FIRST YEAR. Reals. Two hundred and eight young orange trees from the nursery at 26 per hane- gada, at 5 reals 1,040 Their carriage to the place 30 Four men to plant, at 8 reals 32 Ten arrobas (128.880 kilograms) guano, at 18 reals per arroba 180 Collocation of same 10 Made the plantation, digging and cost 220 Improvement of the conditions of the soil and hormigueros in May: Journey work 120 Wood.. 200 320 Six irrigations paying 1 real per hanegada 48 Six weeding under the trees 72 Contribution of the field 182 Perceiving rent 1,080 3,214 580 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. SECOND YEAR. Manuring with two baskets of manure for each tree, being 42 loads, at 5 reals. 210 Carriage of the manure 60 Collocation of same 16 Four arations, at 15 reals each 60 Irrigations 48 Weediugs 72 Contribution - 182 Rent 1,080 1,728 THIRD YEAR. Eighty loads of manure 400 Carriage 120 Scattering 16 Two arations 30 Irrigations 48 Weedings 72 Contribution 182 Rent 1.080 1,948 FOURTH YEAR. Two aratious and made hormigueros, all cost 350 To impulse the plantation, adding guano for 480 Collocation 10 Irrigations 48 Weedings 72 Contribution 182 Rent 1,080 • 2,222 FIFTH YEAR. Manuring this year with 160 loads of manure, at 5 reals 800 Carriage and collocation 200 To conserve the maturity, for want of water, did order during the summer aration after each irrigation, and expended 100 Irrigations .v 48 Weeding? 72 Contribution 182 Rent 1.080 2, 482 Calculating now at the rate of 200 reals per hanegada during the following five years, the orchard being near the town, would result 8,000 Contribution 910 Rent 5,400 14, 310 Total 25,904 ORANGES AND LEMONS IN BARCELONA. 581 Yield during the first ten years. — First year, nothing; second year, took off the fruit; third year, collecting 8,000, sold at 60 reals per 1,000; fourth year, collecting 31,000, sold at CO reals per 1,000; fifth year, collecting 42,000, sold at GO reals per 1,000. The practical farmer calculates that, considering the -good state of the orchard, after the first ten years the oranges collected will result at the rate of G,000 per hanegada. If so, 8 hanegadas at 6,000, 48 by 10=480 thousands, which sold at 60 reals would give 28,800 reals. Reals. Yield in tm years 28, 800 Cost of cult i vat ion , etc 25, 904 Benefit 2>896 Maturity. — The orange trees come into full bearing after ten years, and, according to their health and strength, augment and remain bear- iiig for many years. In this province (Valencia) exists a sweet orange tree called the arriero, of forty-four years, whose yield arrived to be of 8,000 and 10,000 oranges. There exists another of the age of fifty years having produced 14,000 oranges. They attain a very high age. Some authors assure that some did arrive to the age of over five hundred years. In the neighboring province of Murcia exist several trees of the age of two hundred years, each yielding nearly 8,000 oranges. In Nice existed an orange tree of an unknown high age, whose trunk wanted two men to embrace ; about 50 feet high ; its branches covered a table of forty covers. One half of the tree yielded every year from 5,000 to 6,000 oranges, whilst the other half reposed, giving only a few hundreds ; in the next year this half yielded the 5,000 or 6,000 oranges, and the other reposed, and thus successively. LEMONS. Lemon trees are cultivated in the same manner as the orange trees, belonging to the same family of the Citrus ; those grown up direct from the seed are generally the healthiest and yielding more and better fruits than the ingrafted. The export and cultivation of lemons is very lim- ited in this province (Valencia). Some trials to export them to the United States were without success, because of their short durability and inte- rior quality ; those of Malaga are better, but the best in quality and durability are those of Italy; it is therefore from Italy whence those who intend to create a lemon orchard should procure a selected seed. FREDK. H. SCHEUCH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Barcelona, February 15, 1890. 582 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. MALAGA. REPORT BY CONSUL MARSTON. Varieties. — The names of best varieties for profit are " China" oranges and the " Castillian " lemons. There is another kind of lemon called the "Reales," which is large and long, but the Castillians are more pro- ductive. Location. — The trees that produce the varieties named above are grown in all parts of the province of Malaga where there is water, and generally by the side of small rivers and streams. The distance from the sea is about 2 kilometers, and the elevation above sea-level 100 feet. Any elevation with water and sun will answer. The more sun the better. Level land; sandy subsoil is the best. Climatic. — Temperature 45° to 90° Fahrenheit ; average, about 78°. Nights immaterial ; for both oranges and lemons moist days, or ordi- nary atmosphere, are most beneficial. No record of rain-fall is kept in Malaga. Rain-fall is always good for both trees and fruit. Irrigation. — In summer only, three times a week, at any stage of growth and as much as possible ; never water for ten or fifteen days before picking fruit. Cultivation. — Twice a year by plowing or digging around the roots. Fertilizers. — Stable manure, placed around the trees to the depth of 18 inches or 2 feet, in the month of January. Pruning. — After four years old begin to prune; height immaterial; if plowed with horses or oxen, then prune off lower branches ; if you dig around the roots by hand with spade it is immaterial. Picking. — Picked when nearly ripe, for exportation ; while they are green and before they turn yellow ; nothing done to cure them here. Packing and shipping. — Packed in tissue-paper first and placed in cases one-eighth, one-fourth, and one-third, and sometimes one-half chests for shipment. Planting and Propagating. — The distance the trees are planted apart is 12 yards; they are propagated from seed of bitter oranges, and grafted. The best varieties are seedling. \ The orchards are large and small. Maturity. — Begin fruiting at four years of age ; largest crop at about fifteen years ; twenty -five years full maturity. Insect pests. — Both lemon and orange trees, in certain locations, have been attacked by some kind of insect, but growers here are ignorant as to its name or nature. There are parasites, but their names are not known ; they injure the fruit by eating the buds. Pacldng and curing. — Never pick either oranges or lemons while wet CHANGES AND LEMONS IN TURKEY. 583 or immediately after rain; let them be perfectly dry. They are both hard and green when picked for exportation and taken to the place of packing, and there assorted as to sizes. The United States prefer the small, England and France the large, and North of Europe the medium sizes. They are then wrapped in fine tissue-paper of different colors and placed in rows in the case or box by women and girls, who are remark- ably adept at the work. The package is then taken by men, the lids nailed on and strapped with the ordinary wooden hoop-pole split in two pieces, branded, and then they are ready for shipment. The season for picking lemons is September and October, and for oranges November and December each year. H. C. MARSTON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Malaga, December 6, 1889. TURKEY. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL HEAP, OF CONSTANTINOPLE. (Republished from Consular Reports No. 41£.) Varieties. — Although there are other kinds in the Levant, only three varieties of oranges and four of lemons are commonly grown, of which the oranges known as " Candiaii," " Syrian," and " Mandariuian," and the lemons as " Caudian," " Ohio," " Paros," and " Messina," are con- sidered the best. There is, however, a variety of lemon (the Citrus lumia) called the "sweet lemon," of which the juice is sweet. This is much used by calico printers in patterns with dyes containing iron, to prod ace greater clearness in the white parts. Propagating. — The trees are grown both from seedlings and from grafts. Lemons are generally propagated first from the seeds of the wild orange, as it has been found that the wild fruit tree bears the cold belt* T. When three years old the plants from these seeds are taken up and replanted in other places, and the year following the lemon plants proper are grafted upon them. Five years afterwards they begin to bear fruit, and at fifteen years they reach maturity. When great care is bestowed, inarching is practiced, but growers generally prefer to propagate by grafting, while always rearing a portion of the trees from seedlings and from cuttings, especially the latter. Insect pests. — Unless carefully tended, both orange and lemon trees are frequently injured by small canker-worms and moths, which eat the leaves, etc. Powdered charcoal ash is placed on and around the trees, which destroys the eggs of the worms, etc. Sometimes a mixture of charcoal, soot, and strong vinegar is sprinkled on the treeouce or twice, as may be deemed necessary. 15GA 13 584 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Disease. — Unlike the orange, which presents a fine, close head of deep-green foliage, the lernon forms a straggling bush or small tree 10 or 12 feet high, with paler, more scattered leaves, and short, angular branches, with sharp spines in the axils. In damp valleys the lemon is liable to be attacked by a fungus (the Dematium monophyUum), which covers the stem, leaves, and fruit with a black dust. Trees grown in the shade and not properly exposed to the sunlight suffer most severely from this cause. Syringing with milk of lime when the young insects are hatched, and before they have fixed themselves on the plants, is found to be the most effectual remedy known for these pests. Planting. — In some places 7 to 8 paces, say 18 feet, is considered a sufficient distance between both kind of trees, but generally there is no strict rule for either. Situation. — Orchards and orange gardens are to be found thriving in almost every situation suitable for the cultivation of the grape, but they give the best results when situated on hill-sides or gentle slopes, where, together with a good supply of moisture under ground, they are exposed to a gentle heat by day, and fresh, cool breezes by night. As before mentioned, they suffer and fade when deprived of light as well as warmth, and they never prove successful when the ground is damp for long in summer or is not properly drained. Both oranges and lemons thrive in a rich soil, and succeed well in good, strong clay with moder ate care and attention. Although it is not the best situation for them, both lemons and oranges can be grown close to the sea-coast, especially lemons, which are more hardy than oranges. They are strongest in the Archipelago, and on some of the islands they flourish almost anywhere as long as their roots do not come in con- tact with salt water. Irrigation. — When the trees are young they are generally well watered by haud during the summer, but there is no system of artificial irriga- tion in general use, and the ground receives a similar treatment to that bestowed on the vineyards cultivated by the natives, as before men- tioned. * Yield. — Oranges, when gathered for export, should be quite ripe. Those fully formed and with the color just turning from green to yel- low are choseik They are wrapped in fine paper or in the husk of In- dian corn. A tree 20 feet in height and occupying a space of about 20 feet in diameter will frequently yield from 3,000 to 4,000 oranges in the course of the year. Many trees live from one hundred to one hundred and fifty years. As lemons are more profitable to grow than oranges on account of their keeping qualities and their being less liable to injury during voyages, their cultivation is preferred in many parts of the Le- vant. The lemons are gathered green ; the finest are picked out and packed in cases containing about 420 fruits j also in boxes, three ot ORANGES AND LEMONS IN TURKEY. 5.85 which are equal to two cases, each lemon being separately wrapped iu paper. Habitat.— Tku little island of Aiidros produces 10,000,000 lemons annually; they are exported to Constantinople, the ports of the Black Se;i. and those of the Danube, realizing au average price of $4.80 to $5.75 per 1,000. A similar quantity of excellent quality is exported from the larger island of Ohio, where they are gathered in May, and a second crop in November and December. Great numbers of " sweet lemons " are grown in the islands of tho Archipelago and the districts around Smyrna. The greater part of the oranges are grown in Candia and in Syria, especially in the neighborhood of Jaffa. In Paros, Mitylene, Tenedos, and Samos both oranges and lemons are largely cultivated for exporta- tion. The dried and candied rind of the bitter orange, known as "orange peel," is largely used in flavoring confectionery. C. H. HEAP, Consul- General UNITED STATES CONSULATE GENERAL, Constantinople, April 10, 1884. OLIVES. 587 CONTINENT OF AFRICA, MOROCCO. REPORT BY CONSUL MATHEWS, OF TANGIER. (Republislied from Consular Reports, No.41£.) THE OLIVE. Varieties. — Several varieties are grown, wild and domestic. It is im- possible to proclaim in an absolute manner which variety produces the best results, as in every country one is preferred which suits best the locality and climate ; and it happens that a variety which prospers in a certain climate in others fails to produce the same results ; therefore it must be ascertained by trials of the best and hardiest varieties. The varieties which will stand the severest cold weather are those nearest to the wild, such as the Odessa and the Beaked olive (Olea Eu- ropea rostrata, Clem.) ; the olives of these trees are not large, but of a medium size. There are nineteen denned varieties of olives ; the principal ones are, the Royal Seville, of large fruit, which is gathered in a green state for pickling ; the Queen of Commerce, of very large fruits, with small, white spots, also gathered while green, for pickling ; the Eicholine, of long, oval shape. The Empeltre olive tree produces a small olive, oval- shaped, bearing abundantly on the sixth year of its plantation, and in- creasing every successive year ; the fruits ripen very early and yield abundant oil and of a superior quality ; is a variety greatly cultivated in Aragon, Spain ; a similar variety, but neglected, grows near Meque- nez, in this country. The province of Soos, south of Morocco, produces great abundance of oil. The plantations of olive trees in this province are very numerous; many of the trees are of great size and beauty, and are planted in a very whimsical and peculiar manner in the neighborhood of Messa, the <•au.se of which I learned from Governor Gilali Benhamos : that one of the emperors being on his journey to Soudan encamped here with his army, that the pegs with which the cavalry picketed their horses were cut from the olive trees in the neighborhood, and that these pegs being left in the ground on account of the sudden departure of the army, the olive trees in question sprung up from them. I have seen the Moors in the province of Angora, between Tangier and Ceuta, planting olive, pomegranate, and quince trees by cutting bits of wood of these trees, 589 590 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. from 18 to 20 inches in length and 3 in circumference, which they knocked into the ground with a large stone while the ground was soft after a rain ; two years after I saw these pegs, most of which had taken root and were in a fair way of becoming good trees. The province of Soos produces abundant oil, which is brought to Mogador and shipped to England and France. The people of Bas-el- Wad make two sorts, Tabaluht and Zit-el-aud. The former is made from the olives when green and nearly ripe, with which they frequently grind limes or wild thyme. This oil is very rich and white, and not inferior to the best Florence or Lucca oil. The Zit-el-aud is made from the olives when they are quite ripe and black, and after they had laid on the ground some time. In this state they yield the greatest quantity of oil, but it has a strong taste, which is not disliked by the natives. It is used in Europe in the woolen and soap manufactories. Cultivation. — In the countries where the olive tree is cultivated they generally plant it on the worst soils on the hillsides ; they are raised from seed, stakes, slips, cuttings, from young shoots, layers, and by grafting or budding. Vegetables, such as beans, peas, etc., can be cultivated between the rows of olive trees, provided the stubble, stalks, leaves, etc., while still green, are returned to the soil and worked in around the trees. Propagation. — Propagation from seed, owing to the oily nature of the pulp attached to the olive seed, is tardy, unless these are placed in lye- water made of potash or ashes for three days, which will remove the greasy substance and allow the water when sown to penetrate into the small kernel inside. The soil should be light, well manured, and worked deep ; the beds laid out in an open, warm situation. The seeds should be sown a foot apart in drills. The best time for sowing is early in the autumn and watered. The plants will come up the following year, and the earth may be stirred between them while the weeds are being re- moved. The second season, when the plants are a year old, they should be budded with known varieties — with those producing the largest fruit, if intended for preserving and speculating with the olives, or with va- rieties rich in oleous properties, if chiefly desired for the extraction of oil. A year after budding they may be planted in rows 3 feet apart, and the plants 2 feet from one another, in case their final spot is not ready to receive them, or else they may at once be transplanted in the place where they are to remain. In all this lifting and transplanting much care is necessary lest the roots should suffer any mutilation or injury. Thus followed the young tree will commence to bear olives on the third year, and be in full bearing in its tenth year. The propagation by slips or stakes does not require budding nor graft- ing, and they make the best olive orchards; all the orchards and groves in Morocco, and in Andalusia, Spain, where we see some of the finest trees in the world, are from slips or stakes. These should be chosen from the knottiest parts of the branches of the olive ; they must be four THE OLIVE IX MOROCCO. 591 or six verdures old, at least, in rows where the soil has been worked and mixed with well-rotted animal manure, and so placed as to admit irrigation. The slips or stakes should be planted half a yard apart, and one yard at least from each row. In catting the slips or stakes the top part exposed to the air and sun should be at once covered with the varnish used by grafters to prevent cracking or decay by the rains. There should be no less than two-thirds of the length buried in the ground when they are 2 or 3 feet in length. There are several other modes of propagation from the protuberances of the roots cut in pieces, and planted in rows 13 inches apart, and watered until the shoots are 3 feet high, when they are again separated and transplanted ; also by layers, and from suckers, etc. The time for these operations is from the middle of autumn to the first of March. In plowing the ground care should be taken not to go near the tree and injure the roots ; the ground around the tree must be worked lightly with a dented hoe ; the vegetable and animal manure must be buried in a ditch dug around each tree, but distant from it from 3 to 8 feet, according to its age and size, in order not to disturb the roots. Queen olives. — There are two varieties of trees which produce the large olives of commerce : (1) The Royal or Queen, Sevillian, known as Olea regia Boz., and Olea regalis Clem. The wood of this tree is less hard and lighter in color than that of the wild olive. The branches are tall and straight, the leaves long, and the fruit plum-shaped, its pulp adhering tenaciously to the stone, tardy in maturing, and is gathered green for pickling. When ripe the fruit is of dark violet color. It ripens with difficulty, produc- ing a clear oil of sweet flavor. (2) The Sardal Sevillian olive (Olea Hispalensis Clein.), (Olea Hispan- ica). The branches are less vertical than the former variety, the leaves are larger, the fruit is walnut-shaped and aromatic. It is very com- mon in Seville, Yera. and other parts of Andalusia. I have seen a few trees of these two varieties prospering in private gardens near Tan- gier, reared from slips brought from Seville, the fruit retaining its original quality. The queen olives of commerce are not the selected fruit of the common olive, but a particular species of itself, as above described. Maturity. — In warm climates, and on its favorite soil, the olive tree comes into full bearing on the tenth year from its grafting, or from the plants of slips, cuttings, or stakes. In colder climates they come into full bearing some years later. The olive tree remains fruitful for centu- ries. There is an olive between Villefranche and Nice which was famous for its old age in the year 1515. It measures at its base 42 feet in cir- cumference; its average yield of oil per year amounts to 150 kilograms. (A kilogram has 34 ounces.) In Spain and in the island of Mallorca there are olive trees which were old at the time of the Moorish occupa- tion, and which at present continue to produce enormous crops of fine olives. 592 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. field. — The acre is not known in the olive countries ; lands are meas- ured by the hectare. A secular olive tree of great size, occupying 100 square yards of land, will yield on an average 40 gallons of olives, which is not at all exaggerated, as there are many which yield 100 and even 120 gallons of olives. The adult field olives of moderate size yield from 20 to 40 gallons of olives. Short olive trees, occupying only 25 square yards of ground, yield on an average about 20 gallons of olives. In the orange region a mature olive tree, well cultivated, will produce 15 gallons of oil. If the trees stand at a distance of 30 feet from each other, or at about the rate of 75 trees to the acre, there will be a yield of 1,125 gallons of oil per acre. In Spain they calculate on an average yield of 140 hectoliters (1 hectoliter measures 20 gallons) of olives per hectare of ground every two years, yielding 1,750 liters oil in this form : Pesetas. 1,000 liters of refined oil at a medium price of 1 peseta and 25 centimes . 1, 250 750 liters of inferior oil, at 75 centimes 526 Total 1,775 (A peseta is equal to 20 cents; 5 pesetas to a dollar; 100 centimes to a peseta. Deducting 700 pesetas as cost of cultivation leaves a net product of 1,561 pesetas every two years. ) When the trees are at a distance of 10 meters from each other they yield, on an average, 6,000 kilograms of oil per hectare, of the value of 12,000 pesetas. Planting. — The trees are planted from 30 to 40 feet apart. Picking. — They are picked one month before the olives are quite ripe, when they are of a yellow-green color, for oil, and in the month of November, when the olive changes its color from violet to black, when intended for pickles* Pickling.— The olives are kept in water until their bitter taste is en tirely removed. The water must be changed occasionally. Then they are ready for pickling either in salt and water or with sweet herbs, such as thyme, slices of lemon, etc. The Moors bruise first the olives, and afterwards pack them with salt. Oil. — The process for extracting oil consists, first of all, in gathering the olives when they turn black, about the month of NovembeV, on a fair day, separating those found under the tree on the ground, and all discolored ones, with which the second quality of oil is made; they must be cleaned of all foreign matters, such as leaves, etc.; in gather- ing the olives must not be beaten, but picked by hand or with a hook made on purpose. The olives are spread in a hall, the floor of which is of glazed tiles and having a slope in order to allow the water which oozes out of the olives to run out. The olives are turned over several times, taking care uot to allow them to ferment, as it would produce a rancid, inferior oil, and in this care lies the secret of success in obtain- ing a superior sweet oil. It is recommended when pressing the olives THE OLIVE IN MOROCCO. 593 not to break the stone, as it contains a small almond which neu- tralizes the ilavor of the first-class oil. In the second process in press- ing the stones should be crushed in order to obtain the oil still left ad- herent to the stone and on the kernalor almond, which will be a second- ary class of oil. Every utensil in the mill must be perfectly clean. It is essential that the entablature where the olives are pressed and ground, tht» baskets where the paste is placed for pressing, the receivers of the oil, etc., should not have been used in preparing rancid oils or of bad Ilavor. The virgin oil of first pressure must be extracted without the addition of the boiling water, which always alters its quality. With these cares a very superior first-class oil will be obtained from the first pressing. On the second operation, the paste still contains a good deal of oil which the press by itself is not sufficient to extract, but with the assist- ance of boiling water* and a more efficacious pressure, an oil is obtained very good for kitchen purposes, and which unscrupulous merchants mix with cotton or other tasteless oils and sell in bottles as " huile surperflne e obtained in table-lands, provided the soil is not adobe or compact, and having good drainage. The orchards are in some places only a distance of 200 or 300 yards from the sea. Soil. — The olive -tree will thrive in all soils excepting low, damp grounds. It will prosper and yield abundantly on the top and side of mountains, amongst rocks — matters not the shallowness of the soil — in gravelly and stony ground where neither wheat, barley, nor oats will grow. On calcareous and volcanic grounds the olive produces the finest (jiiality of oil; all those precipitous side-hills and canons, so numerous in some of the counties of California, all along the Coast Range east- ward of San Diego, following up San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo, San Juan, Contra Costa ; all the sides of Mount Diablo, up north to the mountains siding the Klamath River, 4L* degrees north latitude. North of this the olive will grow and fiower, but will not mature the fruit, even if raised from seed. 594 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The great value and" importance of the olive tree is that it will thrive and prosper in soils where nothing else of value would grow. Those dry soils of arid aspect in many parts of California are the genuine lands for raising the most productive forests of olives, worth, in due time and at not distant period, millions of money. In Africa, in Greece, and in some parts of Spain lands once abandoned for their sterility are now the source of wealth and revenue to communities and to the Gov- ernment. Irrigation. — None. The olive trees require no irrigation. They are only watered when transplanted until secured. Rainfalls. — Thirty inches is the average. The rain-fall in the year 1881-'82 was 52 inches. Pruning. — Of all the questions raised and argued with regard to the culture of the olive tree, none has been more debated than the pruning ; not only every country has its ways of pruning, but every district has its manners and notions. On the other hand there are parts where the olive is never pruned. The olive tree must undergo a certain amount of pruning, not to the extent of the orange ; the old and bare wood must be removed j the branches must be kept in such a trim so as not to exclude altogether the sun and air from the head ; suckers must be avoided and those only left required to fill a clear place of the head ; the foliage of the head must be kept equally balanced. The olive produces flowers on the branches and wood of the preceding year. It is rarely necessary to cut large branches : some branches which have produced fruit for several years in succession and at last present an appearance of dryness about them, must be removed. By so doing, towards the end of winter it will soon produce new shoots, which on the following year will bring forth flowers. Olives must be thus pruned only every other two years. Fol- lowing this practice from the beginning on young trees, the pruning will be but slight and easy to perform. On pruning it is well to cover up at once the wounds on the tree with a mixture of earth and fresh cow's dung well mixed, which is just as good for the purpose and more economical than the varnish used by grafters. The branches, leaves, etc., from pruning, which in some countries are given to the cows and goats, are the proper manure for olive t^ees, and it should be buried while green around the trees, as well as all the oily waters and residue of the mills where the oil is made ; these wastes are great fertilizers. Besides the frosts and excessive cold, the olive has other enemies in the shape of insects, to combat which washes of vinegar or lime-water and whitewashing the trees are necessary. It is highly beneficial to keep the trees clear of moss and parasite vegetation. FELIX A. MATHEWS, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Consul. Tangier, April 2, 1884. CONTINENT OF AMERICA. MEXICO. LOWER CALIFORNIA. REPORT OF CONSUL VIOSOA, OF LA PAZ. Varieties. — The Andalusia or Sevilla variety of culture of olives com- poses the best quality for pickling in the District of Mulege, a country and town bordering the gulf side of Lower California, and in latitude 26°, 45' north, which place supplies pickled olives in barrels to the state of Sonora, Sinaloa, and this portion of the territory. From time immemorial a kind of an olive tree of the native genus has been in cultivation in the towns and valleys of Mulege, San Igna&io, Pnrising, and Comondu, bearing very small but oily olives in abundance. It is considered the best oil and the tree of more productiveness ; nev- ertheless, for some reason or other, the oil made in this country is very insignificant in quantity. Situation. — The towns in the valleys above described contain the principal olive-grove trees in the peninsula, the first bordering the sea gulf, and the others located on an average of 50 miles from sea. Hilly or level land is immaterial for its growth, but the exposure to the sun is necessary. Climate. — Kain-fall is an assistance, although their dependence has to be entirely on irrigation. In watering the olive trees, the water is made to run and form a pool around within 3 feet from the tree and never to touch the stem. Pruning. — Pruning takes place in October, and picking in the begin- ning of September, that is for pickling, and for oil in the latter part of October, when the fruit is ripe. Maturity. — The trees commence fruiting after seven years old. Planting. — Distance apart planted, 25 feet or more. Olive trees are generally propagated by cuttings over a year old. Insect pests. — A very injurious worm sometimes causes great detri- ment to the tree, but it is destroyed by the use of a solution of ashes mixed with lime. When the skin of the tree becomes very tight to the principal stem, a few slashes or perpendicular cuts of the skin with a sharp knife will enhance the tree's growth and make it prolific in fruit bearing. 595 596 FKUIT CULT VISE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Soil. — The soil selected for olives is light, loamy, and limish, requir- ing water every second day when first set on the ground, and no ma- nure until after the tree is three years old. I am sorry to say that there is no printed matter or statistical reports on horticulture in existence here, and the above is the best information obtainable on the treated subject. JAS. VIOSCA, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, La Paz, December 21, 1889. ECUADOR. There appears to be no reason for doubting that in portions of Ecua- dor olives might be grown in perfection, for similar conditions of cli- mate and soil exist to that of France along the shores of the Mediter- ranean Sea, where the best olives in the world are produced. So far as can be ascertained, growing olives in Ecuador has never been tried. HORATIO N. BEACH, Consul. GUAYAQUIL, 1884. VENEZUELA. The cultivation of the olive is unknown here, owing doubtless to the fact that the climate is too hot and the season too dry. Whatever of care or attention for fruits that the people are inclined to bestow is devoted to the orange and banana, though neither these nor any other orchard fruits are exported, and only enough are raised to satisfy the domestic demand; yet, in view of the favorable character of the soil and climate, it is doubtless true that, with a good foreign demand and speedy transportation, the growth of tropical fruits here might assume important proportions and prove amply remunerative. WINFIELD S. BIRD, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, La Guayra, November 15, 1889. WEST INDIES. BERMUDA. Mr. Heyl, fruit-grower, of Hamilton, to Consul Beckwitli. At one time olive plants were imported here by the country, but as no care was given them, they have since dwindled away, only a few trees here and there remaining, but the fruit is put to no use. A little Tin; OLIVE IN THE WEST INDIES. 597 more energy and enterprise are needed in the island toadvaiice various branches of agriculture and fruit culture, which at present, being carried on in a shiftless manner, bring no profit. TRINIDAD. Mr. J. H. Hart, government botanist, to Consul Sawyer. Trees grow rapidly and exist for years, but have never been known to produce fruit. CUBA. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL WILLIAMS, OF HAVANA. With respect to olives, I have to say that a few experiments have been made by the florists in the suburbs of Havana to cultivate this tree, but so far as I can learn, it has not borne fruit. EAMON O. WILLIAMS, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Havana, November 24, 1889. GUADALOUPE. Director of Botanical Garden at Basse-terre, to Consul Bartlctt. Olive trees are very scarce, perhaps not a dozen of them in the island. Olives are not grown for exportation. ST. FELIX CLABDEAU. CONTINENT OF ASIA. ASIA MINOR.* REPORT BY CONSUL EMMETT, OF SMYRNA. Varieties. — The best variety for pickling is the round olive 5 the best variety for olive oil is the " coloves n (stemless). The other choice vari- eties for pickles (eating) and oil, worthy of culture and for profit, are the "Adramitti" olives. Situation. — The trees that produce the varieties above given are grown in valley, hillside, table land, and plain, and near the sea and many days from it ; elevation above sea-level is 3 to 6,500 feet ; exposure to sun is immaterial, as the climate here is mild and agreeable. The trees are grown in every soil, and good results are obtained on valley, hill-side, or table-land, except where the soil is marshy. The character of the soil and subsoil is calcareous. Climatic influence. — The olive tree does not thrive in the open air except in latitude 43°, and where the temperature is not lower than 15° to 20° Fahrenheit. Temperature. — Minimum, 32° ; maximum, 95° ; average, 68° Fahreii heit. Rain-fall. — The annual rain-fall at Mitylene is about 25 inches. Eain is always very good, but after September. If it rains during the flow- ering of olive trees — April and May — and when the fruit is very small — June, July, and August — the crop is not likely to be good, as it falls off prematurely. Irrigation. — When a plantation of olive trees is made it should be im- mediately irrigated and the irrigation is to be repeated every two weeks for three years, during the months of April, May, June, July, and Au- gust, according as the weather may be more or less dry ; but after three years no irrigation of any kind is needed here. Cultivation. — Olive groves are ploughed in the spring to tbe depth of 1 inch in the clear spots, and 2 to 3 inches deep in the vicinity of the trees; but after the ploughing is over they always dig the soil round the trees with a spade. Pruning. — At Mitylene we prune the olive trees every year after the crop with great attention, removing the dried and high branches, because it is not necessary that the olive tree should be higher than 20 feet. * From information supplied by the United States consular agent at Mitylene, an extensive olive cultivator. 598 THE OLIVE IN ASIA MINOR. 599 Picking. — About the end of November the harvest begins. ridding. — The best time for pickling green olives is the end of Sep- tember, always after the first rain; and the best time for pickling ripe black olives is the end of November, during the harvest. Oil manufacture. — Next step, after picking, the olives are sent to the mills for grinding as soon as possible. The Mitylenists put the green olives in fresh water for five or six days and change it every day; after that they cork the olives in jars with pickle. They prepare black olives for table use in the common manner, in pickle. The process for extracting oil is as follows : After the olives become pulverized by grinding under millstones they are put in goafs-hair bags and pressed in either iron or wooden presses, and the oil is put into large earthen jars, barrels, or skins, for sale. Maturity. — The trees commence fruiting the fifth year after planting. Yield. — The average yield per acre per annum of mature trees is $25 to $30. riant I ay and propagating. — The trees are planted at a distance of -5 ieet from each other, and are propagated by the planting of branches or striking from branches ; by the planting of pieces of root ; by the cultivation of wild olive trees and transplanting to the field, and" from seed. Insect pests. — Insect pests do not exist. W. C. EMMETT, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Smyrna, January 15, 1890. . ASIA MINOR. REPORT BY CONSUL STEVENS, OF SMYRNA. [Republislied from Consular Reports No. 41^.] Situation. — The olive is not as extensively cultivated here as in the inlands of the Archipelago and Mediterranean — the Sporades, Cyclades, and Ionian Islands. The reason for this is easily understood. The olive will not thrive inland ; it must be planted near the sea-coast. Plan- tations are prepared in this manner: Vigorous young trees, which grow wild upon the sides of the neighboring mountains, are taken up and trans- planted in the plain or hill-side. After remaining two years in the field they are grafted. Seven or eight years after the grafting process the\ begin to bear; reaching the maximum of productiveness from the eight- eenth to the twenty-fifth year. They yield every other year. When 156A 14 600 , FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. transplanted the young trees must be watered once a fortnight during summer until -they reach their fourth year. If well protected they will continue fruitful for two hundred years or longer. Trees planted on stony hill-sides yield more abundantly and of a better quality than trees planted on plain land. They should be planted about 30 feet apart. Cultivation — The manner of cultivating olive trees is to plow or dig over the ground every year about a foot in depth, adding manure every third year at the foot of each tree and covering it up with earth. The mature tree will yield about 580 pounds of olives yearly. Varieties. — The varieties which give the best results are known as " Thrillies " and a Adramitis," after the localities where they are grown. The " queen olives of commerce" are produced from an improved tree grown at Adramitis. There are two species of olives, and these are, when ripe, green and black, respectively. Those intended for pickling for table use are gath- ered green-ripe ; they are put in salted water and allowed to remain until ready for use. These are of the black variety. Green olives also yield good oil for table use, but in much smaller quantity. The most productive olive orchards in this province are at a distance of 1 to 3 miles from the sea- coast. Picking and expressing oil. — A description of the manner of gathering this fruit and expressing and preparing the oil may prove interesting. During the season of the crop the fruit is collected and salted, then stored away from one to three months. At Mytilene and A'ivali the olives are kept even during live or six months before the oil is abstracted. It is claimed that the larger the quantity of salt used in this process the finer* the quality of oil obtained. The fruit, packed in baskets con- taining 50 pounds each, is put into boilers and boiled for half an hour ; then it is withdrawn and spread on a circular surface, where it is ground under a large millstone driven by horse-power. The horse is always followed by a workman whose care is to throw the olives under the stone with a shovel. The olives, first coarsely ground and then care- fully pounded, are placed in bags made with goats' hair, which are put, from 20 to 24 at a time, under a powerful press, operated by two work- men, and then squeezed until no oil flows out ; 6f pounds of good olives give 2J pounds of oil. The oil gathers in a trough placed un^er the press,* and is then withdrawn and poured into casks. The olives in- tended to be used at table are put into stone jugs or barrels, after hav- ing been carefully washed, and are covered over with strong brine. In this condition they will keep good for a whole year. W. E. STEVENS, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Smyi na, February 28, 1884. THE OLIVE IN PALESTINE. 601 PALESTINE. REPORT BY CONSUL Q1LLMAN, OF JERUSALEM. Varieties. — The finest olives of this country grow on Mount Lebanon and in the hill country of Judaea. Those near the sea-coast are inferior. Five kinds or varieties of olives are generally distinguished here: the white; the large black, known as Bakkar (fat), good for pickling, as is the preceding, but not good for oil; the small black, Zmehri, which is good for oil; the large green, called Sourri (navel), from its resem- blance to that part of the human body, and which is used for pickling, and the small green, named also Sourri, and which is of like use to the large variety. There is also the wild or uugrafted olive called Barri (wild), the fruit of which is not used either for oil or pickles. The best variety for pickled olives is the large black (Bakkar). That best for olive-oil is the small black (Zmehri). All the varieties mentioned grow throughout Palestine, and are found from the sea-coast, and the plains, onjy a few feet above the level of the sea, to the elevation of 3,000 feet or more. The trees have usually a full exposure to the sun, and hilly or even mountainous country seems best adapted to them. The poorest olives, for instance, are found at Jaffa, where their cultivation is being gradually superseded by that of the orange, lemon, and grape. The soil which prevails over the greater part of this country is a stiff red clay, with a small proportion of sand occasionally, and in this the olive flourishes. The subsoil is also clay, with rock frequently underlying. Climate. — As to the temperature and rain-fall the remarks made in connection with the orange, lemon, and fig apply equally here. It is, however, said that in dry seasons the olive produces more abundantly and better fruit. The trees bear a full crop only every second year. This is attributed to the fact that in securing the fruit the trees are beaten and roughly handled, breaking off the small fruit- bearing shoots, , and so preventing an abundant production in the succeeding year, which is known as the " off year," when but a small crop is secured. The fellaheen (peasants) also say that in those years the grape produces abundantly, the olive-tree yields but a poor crop, and vice versa. Irrigation. — Irrigation is never used in connection with the culture of the tree except when young and first planted. Cultivation. — A plowing once a year, in the autumn, is considered sufficient culture ; but as frequently other crops are planted between the trees they thus receive more care and attention than they would otherwise get. In exposed places, where the rains have washed away the soil from the roots of the trees, small fences of stone are built to protect them. These, surrounding the trunks, are filled with earth, and are of good service in shielding them from the summer sun. Also, where a tree is partially hollow with decay, it is the habit to build up the aperture with stones, the object being to arrest the rot. 602 . FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Pruning. — Pruning is only practiced to the extent of removing the dead or dying timber. Picking. — Olives designed for pickling are gathered a short time before ripening, lest they should be too soft for the purpose. Pickling. — On being placed in baskets (the flexible basket in general use being employed) the olives are salted and then receive a gentle pressure. Af cer three or four days they are removed from the baskets, and, without any other preparation or process, are simply placed in jars or barrels. This is all that is required, and for common use no other care is given the olive, which will keep in this way for two or three years, or perhaps even longer where greater care is observed. In towns the fruit is often pickled in vinegar ; but in the country this is unknown to be followed. Oil making. — Where the olives are required for making oil they are allowed to remain on the trees till quite ripe, when they are picked or beaten with long poles from the branches. Allowed to lie in heaps for a period extending from twenty to twenty-five days, at the end of which time they are usually quite soft, they next are crushed in the rude stone mills common in the country — the oil-mills of Palestine, which probably date back to biblical times. They are, however, first placed in the large flexible baskets already described. Heavy pressure being applied, the oil strains through the baskets into the trough placed to receive it. The oil obtained from this first pressure is the best, or of first quality, and will bring in the market as high as $4 per gallon. Two subsequent pressures complete the extraction of the oil. It is all one of the most simple of processes. The oil of the second pressing is considered good, and may be sold for $3 per gallon, but that of the third and last pressing is invariably poor or bad, and is only used for burning in lamps or mak- ing soap. The oil of the first and second grades is often mixed, and the result disposed of to the dealer. In fact this is a common practice, of course deteriorating the oil of the first quality, which it is often sold for. The expressed oil, without further manipulation or other process, is emptied from the trough into skins, and so conveyed to the oil mer- chant, that intended for export finally being transported to Jaffa. Here it is stored in great cemented cisterns, which are specially prepared for the purpose, from which it is emptied into barrels or casks when required for shipment. The greater portion of the oil is exported to France, where, having undergone the mysterious mixings and adulter- ations known only to the dealer, it is placed upon the market, and reaches the public at large labeled pure French olive-oil. The oil pro- duced from olives grown on the mountains is far superior in flavor and quality to that made from fruit grown on the low-lying plains. The oil- cake or refuse remaining after the extraction of the oil is not thrown away, but carefully preserved, it bringing a high price for fuel, being specially adapted for certain uses. For example, the bakers of Jerusa- lem prefer it, and consume large quantities of it in heating their ovens. THE OLIVE IN PALESTINE. 603 Maturity. — Trees commence fruiting from the tenth to the fourteenth year. This includes the time from the first starting of the young wild olive trees. Where a very young wild tree is grafted, fruit may be produced in six years 5 but this is exceptional. Yield. — It is difficult to arrive at the average yield per tree or acre. A very small tree may produce about two measures of olives, or nearly 48 pounds, while a large tree in full bearing yields a crop of as many as twelve measures. An average yield for a medium-sized tree, under fair conditions, ought to reach from five to eight measures, or from about 120 to 190 pounds. It is computed that it takes a measure of olives, or nearly 24 pounds of the fruit to produce three quarts of oil. The yield per acre, depending on so many variable conditions, such as the age of the trees, their distance planted apart, the nature of the soil, the culture bestowed, etc., can not be given with any cer- tainty, especially as no statistics are kept here. Planting. — The usual distance apart at which trees are planted is 30 feet ; but this varies. Often very old trees are seen within 4 or 5 feet of each other, and even closer, in groups of from three to five indi- viduals. These would seem to be the descendants of one original tree, the trunk of which, having reached extraordinary dimensions, has de- cayed at the -center, leaving those outstanding parts of the circum- ference separated, and finally forming several trees oat of one. In fact, unless utterly rooted out an olive tree appears to be indestructible and may live to an indefinite age, and when cared for will continue bearing to the last. Tradition says that some of the older trees of Pal- estine date back to the time of the Romans. The very old trees in the Garden of Gethsemane are supposed to be of the time of Christ. They are unquestionably of extreme age, and the oldest olive trees I have ever seen, yet those venerable trees bear annually a crop of fruit. Propagating. — The olive tree is propagated by being grafted on young trees of the wild olive, which are grown for the purpose. The young wild trees, being planted at a distance apart of about 30 feet and at suf- ficient depth to prevent the disturbance of their roots by the plow, for other crops are always grown between the trees, are generally watered to insure their taking and more rapid growth. But irrigation is not absolutely necessary even at this stage, and where there is difficulty in procuring water, or expense attending it, it is omitted. Irrigation, however, unquestionably produces a more luxuriant and satisfactory growth. At the age of from eight to ten years the young trees are grafted with whatever varieties it is desired to propagate, and they com- mence bearing in from three to four years. \Vli«»re tiws are totally neglected they frequently cease bearing, but it is astonishing how quickly they recover from the most shameful usa^*, immediately responding with a crop to kindly treatment. There are no printed reports, information, or statistics issued by the Government or otherwise. 604 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Insect pests. — Insects injurious to the olive are unknown in Palestine nor have any special observations been made of insects beneficial to the tree j in fact we are remarkably free from all trouble on the score of insect pests, consequently little or no attention has been called to the subject. HENRY GTLLMAN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Jerusalem, February 10, 1890. SYRIA. ALEPPO. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT POCHE, [Republished from Consular Report No. 41|.] In reply to the circular which you did me the honor to address me under date of February 12, I make it my duty to bring to your notice that oranges and lemons are not cultivated in Aleppo owing to the severely cold weather here in winter, which is so injurious to these trees. OLIVES. Varieties. — Four varieties are cultivated in this district : (1) Khul-Tchali, which is only used for pickles or preserved in vine- gar. This variety, which is the best for eating, is included in the cate- gory of ordinary olives. It is sweetened by being immersed in spring water, in which 11 to 12 American pounds of natural soda have been sat- urated, with 3 pounds of lime for about 150 pounds of olives. This immer- sion is made when the water, mixed with these matters, has become cold. The olive berries, after being deposited in that water, should be removed without disturbance, and they lose their bitterness in from sixteen to twenty-four hours. This result being obtained, the olives are imme- diately placed into another tub of well or spring water, which must be occasionally renewed till the taste of the lime is removed. After this operation the olives are placed in pure, fresh water, sufficient to^ cover them, and the tub is then covered with a lid. They are then left twenty- four hours, after which they are pickled, and thus the operation is com- pleted. Olives can also be sweetened by being bruised and placed in pure water, which is repeatedly changed till the fruit loses all its bitter- ness. When thus prepared, the olives are generally eaten in salad or in stew. (2) Shami. — This variety is only gathered when the fruit has become of a dark color and thoroughly ripe. When pressed till quite dry the olives are salted and preserved to be eaten with salad. (3) Zeiti. (4) HuzromiNizibli. THE OLIVE IN SYRIA. 605 These two varieties, although smaller than the two others, are used for oil, which is obtained by means of a lever or screw press, and they are gathered when the fruit has become reddish and ripe. The sweet oil is obtained by a cold extraction. The olives after being crushed in a mill are placed in bags and put under press. The lamp-oil and that used for the manufacturing of soap is obtained by the hot system; that is to say, after the first pressure the bags containing the olives are submerged in boiling water and pressed out again. The best oil is obtained from olives before they are fully ripe. A shumbul, equal to about 147 to 150 pounds, gives 12 to 14 pounds of oil in the vicinity of Aleppo, while here this quantity is reduced to one-half. Cultivation. — The olive tree is reproduced by burying a piece of root, having' many slips, in a rut one yard deep. When these slips shoot forth one of them is cared for without irrigation, while the others are de- stroyed. At the end of ten years this tree begins to give fruit in small quantities, but when it reaches its fourteenth year it gives every other year from 35 t$ 38 American pounds. The soil best suited for the grow- ing of these trees is the reddish or light yellow one ; the latter is, how- ever, preferable. The plantation is made without irrigation or manure ; a space of about 20 feet is left between each tree ; the soil is plowed two or three times a year. The ground around the tree should also be dug and turned over, and the root, as well as a part of the trunk, covered with earth in the form of a mound. The tree, however, should be regu- larly pruned of the dry twigs every year. F. POCHE, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Aleppo, April 16, 1884. BEIRUT.* REPORT BY CONSUL KISSINGER. Varieties. — The varieties of olives in this country are the Balady, the Somulimoky and the Soory; but the best of these for pickling and oil is the Balady. The trees grow in the littoral and middling high lands. Climate. — A cold climate does not suit olive trees. Ii-r'njntion. — Olive trees planted in soil suitable for irrigation are watered twice, when necessary. Cultiration. — The land should be plowed four times in the year. OIKV in the beginning of winter in order that the rains may be absorbed by the soil, and three times in the spring. *Tho several reports, herewith from Syria, with the exception of the report from I);iiiiascii.s, \vcic forwnrded l>y Consul BisMM^rr. l»»'in«r prepared for him by parties iu the districts represented. 606 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Pruning. — Dry branches are cut away only. Picking and curing. — Olives begin to fall from the trees in October, and those that do not fall are gathered up to the 1st of January. Olives for pickling should be picked when green. Maturity. — Olive trees commence fruiting, in some localities, ten years after having been planted, in others later. Yield.— Each olive tree yields from 28 pounds to 112 pounds, in pro- portion to its growth and size. Planting and propagating. — The distance planted apart is about 18 feet- Olive trees are propagated by planting small trees in March and April, which must be grafted as soon as they can sustain the operation. ERHARD BISSINGER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Beirut, February 12, 1890. BEIRUT. REPORT BY CONSUL ROBESON. [Republished from Consular Report No. 41^.] There are two varieties of olives cultivated in this district called, 1st, the smuc-mucky ; 2d, the soury (Tyrian). The fruits of the first variety are poor and small, while the soury are of a larger size, thicker flesh, and richer sap. The best results are obtained during the twentieth or thirtieth year after the wild olive tree has been grafted. There are two methods adopted in the cultivation of olives in this district. The first is to transplant the wild olive shoots from their native soil into the olive groves and to graft them on the fourth year with grafts taken from a cultivated tree. Although this method of cultivation does not procure early crops, yet it is preferable to the second method in use, which is to graft the wild tree as soon as it is transplanted, because the former proves more productive. The land where olive trees are planted must be plowed four or five- times a year. Generally in this district where the soil is sandy a stone bench about 15 inches high is erected around the trunk of eacA olive tree and filled with clay to keep the soil near the tree somewhat cool and damp. The queen olives of commerce are unknown in this coun- try. However, the olives exported from this port to Egypt and other places are selected from the Soury variety. Olive trees come into full bearing five or six years after they are grafted, and remain fruitful for a great number of years. The average yield per acre of mature trees is about 200 Turkish bushels (8,250 pounds). Five gallons of olives produce one gallon of oil. Olive trees are commonly planted 30 feet apart. Olives intended for pickling are gathered about the end of No- vember, then lightly bruised, and after being spread on mats to dry in THE OLIVE IN SYRIA. 607 the air for a few days, they are placed in earthen or glass vases with a sufficient quantity of salt in them to pickle. Olives for oil are picked as they ripen until the end of December. The best results are obtained on table-land protected from high winds. The soil best adapted to the cultivation of olive trees is a reddish porous land or dark -brown rich soil. There is not any system of artificial irri- gation in use for olive culture. Olive trees are never watered. In re- gard to the yield and proceeds they are as stated above. The cost of cult i vat ion per acre per annum may be set down at $10.50, not includ- ing the Government taxes. The nearest olive orchards to the coast are situated at about 1 mile from the sea-side, and extend from that dis- tance to places 2,000 feet above the level of the sea. However, those planted in the high mountains, where cold is intense and snow falls an- nually do not succeed as elsewhere. The average annual rain-fall in this district is 38 inches, but the necessary rain for the growing of olives is 30 inches, which is quite enough. Olive trees in this country bear good crops only every other year. . JOHN T. ROBESON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Beirut, May 3, 1884. DAMASCUS. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT MESHAKA. Varieties. — The names of the best varieties for pickled olives are tin- u Masaabee" and the u Julut" olives, and the name of the best va- riety for olive oil is the " Dan" olives, The other choice varieties for pickles (eating), and oil, worthy of culture and for profit, are the u Sas- safi '' and " Maulee" olives. The trees that produce the varieties here given are grown in the neighboring villages of Damascus. Wtufirion. — They are located at a distance of 70 to 80 miles from the sea. and about 2.300 feet above sea-level. Olive trees are well exposed to the sun, and grow upon hilly, rolling, and level land, but the latter soil is the best. Climatic influence. — Olive trees are not affected by the heat or cold. It is impracticable to tell about the temperature in villages, agri- culturists not having a thermometer. Damascus temperature in winter in Fahrenheit is not lower than 22° and in summer is not beyond 95° in the shade. Kfihi -fall— Thero is no rain-gauge. Tin* rain fall, in December and January, agrees with the growth of trees and fruits. The quantity of rain can not be stated for the reason above mentioned. 608 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Irrigation. — Olive trees when planted are irrigated once a fortnight for the first year, excepting February. In subsequent years they are irrigated twice per annum, once during the first forty days of the winter season, and the second time during the same period of the summer season. Cultivation. — Lands of olive trees are cultivated twice a year, once in December and another time in March. Pruning. — Olive trees are only pruned after the third year of their planting by taking away what may be growing around their trunk. Picking. — Olive fruits are picked green in October and ripe in De- cember and January. The fruits are picked green for pickling and ripe for pickling and making oil. Curing. — The next step, after picking the green olives, is to prepare them for pickling, and the ripe olives to extract their oil and to prepare them for pickling also. The process of pickling the ripe olives is to press them in a basket several days until the bitterness disappears, then they are washed with water, dried a little, salted, and put in oil for use. The green olive (the Masaabee) is commonly used and prepared in the following manner: One-half pound of alkali and one-quarter pound of lime, both dissolved in water and put with 5J pounds of green olives in a vessel for a period of about a week, with a little shaking every day until the bitterness disappears, when they are washed and put in salt water for use; or green olives are put in salt water several months until the bitterness disappears, then bruised gently and placed in oil for use. The process of extracting oil is as follows : Ripe olives are placed in a warm place for about four days, then crushed by a heavy roller and put in baskets under pressure by side of a vat until the juice flows into it. There the oil is gathered from the surface of the water, ready for market. Maturity. — Olive trees commence fruiting at three years of age after planting and are in full bearing at about twenty. Yield. — The average yield of a mature olive tree is about 430 pounds of olives, according to the fertility of the soil ; but olive trees bear only every other year. Planting and propagating. — Olive trees are planted at 17 to 20 feet apart, and propagated from young olive plants springing up abound a mature olive tree; they are disjointed with a piece from the old tree to serve as a root. If the soil where they are to be transplanted is not stony a few stones are placed under them ; most of their trunks are wrapped in straw and some clay is put upon the top of these plants for their protection from the sun and birds during the first year's growth. Insect pests. — When hail falls upon the olive fruits a small worm infests them, but there is no treatment therefor. NASIF MESHAKA, UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Consular Agent. Damascus, January 10, 1890. THE OLIVE IN SYRIA. 609 HAIFA. REPORT JiY CONSULAR AGENT SCHUMACHER. Varieties. — The best variety for pickling is the " Irrsezy " (Arabic name), u pale green olive, with a thin skin. The best variety for oil is the " Melisey," and " Syrian," a dark brown olive. There are two distinct varieties grown in this district ; the one is called the summer, the other the winter olive; the first produces a better oil than the latter. Both kinds are pickled, but the white olives are pre- ferred. The summer olives are the most profitable, and can be recom- mended for culture, as they are the best for producing the finest oil and equally good for eating. Situation. — The natives claim that trees planted on hill sides produce a finer oil than those in the plain. The distances from sea are quite dif- ferent, as the olive trees are spread over the whole country, say from 2 to 100 miles. The trees are planted from 10 to 500 meters apart, and are exposed to the sun without injury even in the hottest weather. The olive trees in my district are mostly planted on hilly land in sandy black soil. But they grow also well in rolling and level land, only not so luxuriant as in the above-named soil. Climatic influence.— &hv climate of Syria is good for the culture of olive trees, as frosts hardly ever occur. Temperature, minimum 2°-f-R. ; maximum 33° to 35°+ R.; average 20° to 25° 4- E. Rain-fall from 1 foot 7£ inches to 3 feet 3 inches all year. If rain falls after the summer olives are ripe it is disastrous for the fruit. The olives become bloated and filled with water, and the oil in them goes back and is lost. Irrigation. — The olive tree is irrigated only for the first two or three years, but not more ; say once a week ; after that no irrigation takes place. Cultivation. — The best time for cultivation is early in the rainy sea- son ; say after the first rain has Mien in ^November, or December. Pruning. — The trees are pruned in the fall ; the foliage must not be abundant. The natives say the tree must be pruned so that one can see through the foliage. Picking. — The fruit is picked or gathered when nearly ripe, both for pickling and oil. Olives are not pickled here for the market; for home use they are put in fresh water for a day or two, and then put into stone jars containing salt brine and well covered. 0/7. — The natives make no good oil here ; they take large heaps of the olives and then grind them under large upright circular stones, which revolve on a circular base. The pulp is then put in round press baskets, made of cane fibers, and pressed. The bulk of the oil pro- duced by the natives is not fit for table use; it is mostly exported to France for illuminating and lubricating purposes. 610 FRtTIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Maturity. — The trees begin to bear after seven or eight years. Yield.—- The average yield of a tree is 100 to 150 kilograms. Planting and propagating. — They are planted about 25 to 30 feet apart, in regular rows. They are planted as wild saplings, which grow abundantly on the mountains; after a year or two they are grafted. The Government makes no statistics, neither are there any issued by dealers or producers. Insect pests. — There are no insect pests here that injure the trees. The greatest danger to olives is the hot wind (sirocco), which occurs some- times during and after blossoming, which causes the blossom on the young fruit to fall off, so that some years the entire crop is lost thereby. JACOB SCHUMACHER, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Acca and Haifa, December 5, 1889. SH WAYFAT. * Varieties. — The best olives for pickling are the black olive, called Shatawy, and the green, called Sourri; the best for oil are the black, of the Shatawy kind, which have small pits and thick flesh if sufficient rain-fall takes place, while the Sourri green olives are good for oil, with or without sufficient rain. Other choice varieties are the Damas- cus and Egypt olives, both of large and small size. /Situation.— They grow in the littoral in general and in high places up to an altitude of 3,000 feet and even higher. The particular region in the vicinity of Beirut, where olive trees grow, is the village of Sh way- fat, in the " Shoof " district, as well as in the neighborhood of Tripoli, the southern part of the Lebanon, and in the interior. The exposure to the sun is of vital importance. Hilly, rolling, and level, but the latter is the best. Boil. — Olive trees grow in all kinds of soil, but the red is preferable. Climate. — Such as the degrees of heat which prevail in Beirut 40° to 90° Fahr., and in the mountains 30° to 88° Fahr. Rain-fall from 30 to 40 inches is needed ; less than 30 would injuri- ously affect olive trees, especially in the littoral. Rain-fall influences the growth of the tree and its production; as to quantity of the same it is stated above. The October rains benefit the fruit, and the rains in December and January benefit the trees. Irrigation.— (y\\\^^ trees prosper best with rain-water; irrigation di- minishes the quantity of oil in the fruit, while it increases the growth of the tree. * Thin report was prepared by the proprietor of an olive grove at Shwayfat, near Beirut, for Consul Bissinger. THE OLIVE IN SYRIA. 611 Cultivation.— Plowing must be done early in the spring, not less thiui four times ; live times is still better. Plowing is still done by means of the old primitive implement. Pruning. — Olive trees are not pruned; the dead branches only should be removed before the tree is in blossom in the spring. Picking. — When fully ripe and turning black; the green in Septem- ber and October and the black after this date. Olives can be preserved when green, i. e., before they get black. Curing. — After picking the olives, heaping together should be avoided in order to keep them cool and prevent fermentation. Oil. — Olives are first crushed under a cylindric millstone, then placed in bags made of goats' skin and pressed with a hydraulic press. In this way oil is extracted from olives. Sweet oil is obtained from olives that are fully ripe. Bitter oil is produced either from dried olives or from olives that have been left for some time heaped up together, or by the residue of olives that had been pressed. This residue, after being placed in large boilers over the fire until it is heated, is sprinkled with water and pressed again with hydraulic presses. Pickling. — The process of pickling olives is as follows: Olives are gathered before they turn black ; i. e., when they are yet green, and after removing all the dry and decayed or spoiled olives they are placed in water salted to a degree which would cause an egg to float thereon. The spoiled olives, and even the good ones, are sometimes bruised and pickled in salted water ; in this way olives get sweet quicker than when not bruised. The process of pickling black olives is to place them in a shallow receptacle for seven days, during which they are every day sprinkled with salt in proportion of 10 ounces to 6 pounds and stirred up so as to be well soaked with salt, after which they can be either pickled by being placed in vases containing the salt- water that remains in the receptacle or in one containing some sweet oil. After olives are pickled, as above stated, it is always well to sprinkle some salt and spread olive leaves on the surface. Pickling the Damascus green olives is effected by placing them in water in which alkali (in the proportion of 2 ounces to the 6 pounds) and lime (in the proportion of 1 ounce to the 6 pounds) have been dissolved for twenty-four hours. After which a bath of sweet water is to be applied and renewed for three or four days until the taste of the alkali and lime has disappeared; they are then pickled and placed in vases filled with salt water. Black Damas- cus olives are pickled as follows : Stir them for a week in salt, then spread them in the sun for one day to dry, then put them in oil. Maturity. — Olive trees begin fruiting when they are fifteen years old ; in a good soil, from the eighth year. Yield. — The average annual production of an olive tree is valued at from -J5 to .'50 piasters (89 cents to $1.07). In the year of fertility (olive trees produce every other year only), it is estimated to be double that amount. 612 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Planting and propagating. — Distance planted apart, from 21 to 30 feet. Olive trees are propagated by planting, in January or February, to the depth of 2 feet, the suckers that grow at the foot of the mother tree or by planting, like the last, wild shrubs and grafting them. Insect pests. — No insects infest olive trees. A small kind of worm is sometimes found in the fruit, but no special process of treatment is adopted or known. SIDON. Varieties. — "Belady" for pickling, also "Smuktnuky" for oil. Other kinds cultivated are the " Kolb-el-Tayar n and "Korka-wa-Sisan." Situation. — Both in the plains and in the mountains near the coast, and up to about 3,000 feet ; sloping and hilly land, red and white clayey soil are best. Climate. — Bountiful rains benefit olives. Irrigation. — Not needed. Cultivation. — Plowing necessary three times in the spring. Pruning. — Pruning not necessary. Picking and curing. — For pickling the fruit is picked whileyet unripe ; for oil when fully ripe. For pickling put in salt and water. Olives are crushed by large rolling stones, then put either under heavy pressure or into hot water and the oil skimmed off the surface. Maturity. — From the sixth year upward. Yield — Exact yield unknown. Planting. — About 20 feet, and propagated by budding or grafting. Insects. — No insect pests. ERHARD BISSINGER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE*, Beirut, February 12, 1890. SIDON. REPORT EY CONSULAR AGENT A EEL A. [Republished from Consular Reports, No. 41^.] ^ Varieties. — Smuc-muky, small berry, little meat, but full of oil. Belady, larger and more meat, and is the best variety. Cultivation. — Wild olive shoots are planted and then grafted, after which the only care they receive is an occasional plowing, except that the earth is often banked about the trunk to the depth of 10 inches. The young trees are set out at a distance of 20 feet apart. No irriga- tion whatever allowed. Bearing. — After being planted and grafted the trees soon begin to bear berries, but the growth is very slow and the increase in the amount of fruit very gradual. THE OLIVE IN SYRIA. 613 Oil. — As nearly as can be estimated the average yield per acre is about 40 bushels of berries for mature trees. As the liquid measure of this laud is based on the weight of the articles measured, it is custom- ary to estimate that iv. bushel of berries will produce about 12 pounds of oil ; but the relation of the yield of berries to the amount of oil is a very varying one, differing according to the season and the rude meth- ods used for extracting oil. After the olive has been crushed or bruised the pulp is treated either by being put into water and the oil is skimmed from the top, or else the pulp is pressed under a lever with weights at the end or by a screw-press. All these appliances are of the most clumsy pattern. Two methods are used in preparing olives for table food, according as green or black olives are required. For green olives the fruit is picked before ripening, and only those berries are selected which are wholly free from any bruises. The fruit is placed in salt and water, and takes some time in curing. The black, ripe berry is very soon prepared for the table by being artificially crushed and then cured with salt. Location. — The olive tree is very hardy, and thrives both near the coast and in the mountains, where it is found at an elevation of 3,000 feet, but the weight of snow does great damage by breaking down the little branches. The best soil is the red porous soil of the hills and stony, rocky ground. The annual rain-fall of this land is about 32 inches. As most of this falls in half the year, the olive thrives best when planted on slopes where the rain soon drains off. SHIBLY ABELA, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Sidon, February 21, 1884. TRIPOLI. REPORT BY CONSUL KISSINGER, OF BEIRUT. Varieties. — The best variety for pickling for olive oil and profit is the u Sourri " olive. Soil. — Bed richly manured soil is best. Manure. — Manure is to be used in winter, and every tree needs about 112 pounds. Situation. — Distance from the sea is immaterial. The position should be low, protected from the wind, but exposed to the sun. Rains. — Plentiful rains benefit the fruit. Early rains, i. e., from Sep- tember and on, are preferable. Irrigation. — Olive trees need not be irrigated. Cultivation. — Plowing is necessary three times in the spring, i. e., once every fortnight. Pruning. — Dry branches only are pruned. 614 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. PicMing.—For pickling, olives must be picked while yet unripe and before they get black. For oil, whenever olives drop from the tree. The fruit that remains on the tree is picked early in December. OH, — For the extraction of oil, olives must be spread ten or twelve days after being gathered, then pressed. Maturity. — At the age of from seven to eight years. Yield. — The yield is proportional to the growth of the trees. Planting and propagating. — The trees are planted about 5 yards apart, and propagated by budding or grafting. ERHARD BISSINOER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Beirvt, February 12, 1890. TRIPOLI. REPORT BY ACTING CONSULAR AGENT TANNI. [Republialied from Consular Reports, No. 41$.] Varieties. — All the olives of this district are of one kind, known as the Olea vulgaris. Orchards. — Olive trees are planted in two ways. The first is trans- planting, the ground is prepared by digging large trenches 3 or more feet deep in which old domesticated or wild olive trees are planted. The land is plowed four or five times a year. The wild olive is grafted in the fourth year after transplanting. This method delays the crop, but is more successful than that employed in Lattakia, where the wild olive is grafted at the time of its transplanting, in order to hasten the crop. The loss in death of the trees is very heavy in consequence. The second method, which is good and less expensive, is to plant the shoots or suckers grown on the trunks of old trees. In most of the new planta- tions the mulberry is planted at the same time and place with the olive shoot. The mulberry grows rapidly, supports the olive plant, and gives good crops of leaves for the culture of silk, till the olive tree, which is of slow growth, begins to bear fruit, by which time the mulberry dies. These young olive trees require constant care to hasten their growth. Neglect in cultivating does not seem to greatly affect the product of old trees. To keep olive trees in good condition they require either fertil- izers or a change of earth about the roots of the trees. The latter method is usually employed. 1 am unable to give any information concerning the queen olives of commerce, since this sort is not found in the districts around Tripoli. Maturity. — Transplanted trees come into full bearing after their tenth year, while plantations of shoots do not attain their maturity before their twentieth year. As to the age these trees can live, it is not known, but it is estimated that the groves around Tripoli are of great antiquity. THE OLIVE IN SYRIA. 615 Yield. — If we suppose an acre of laud to contain fifty mature trees, well cared for, they will yield about 1,800 pounds of olives, worth about $25 ; the cost of cultivation should not exceed $2. If the olives are of £ood quality, 1,800 pounds will yield from 500 to 550 pounds of oil. Wanting. — In the old plantations no rule is observed, but in the new ones a space of 30 or 40 feet is left between the trees. Picking. — Olives are gathered green for pickling. Olives are gath- ered for their oil when ripe, and the longer they remain on the tree the greater the amount of oil. Olives arc prepared for the table in two ways: The first is to break the fruit by a slight blow of a hammer, after which it is abundantly sprinkled with salt, in which it remains two or three days, when it is put iii pickle. This method gives a speedy result. The second method is to take chosen green olives and put them in pickle. This pickle is tested by the people as follows : an egg is put into it and the brine is strengthened till the egg floats. Olives prepared in this way remain sound and good for a long time. They even preserve their green color for three or four years. Oil. — As to the manner of extracting the oil the people employ one of three methods: The presses or maassirs. In the middle of a large room is a circular stone about 5 feet in diameter, with a large hollow in the top. Within this hollow a millstone is made to revolve on its edge by means of a shaft and an upright post. The millstone is driven round and round either by men or horse-power, crushing the olives into a pulpy mass. The press consists of the trunk of a tree, which has been hollowed out by a mortise some .5 or 6 feet long. This log stands upright over a largo jar or cistern. The olive pulp is put into small hay baskets, which are piled in the hollow log, and over the top of them passes a long, heavy bar, which presses down upon these baskets, the pressure being in- creased by heavy weights suspended at the end of the bar. The oil descends into the vessel below, which is partially filled with water, and the workmen use their hands for dipping the oil from the surface of the water. These mills are the same as those for grinding wheat. The only respect in which they differ from the preceding process is the using of revolving knives, which cut the pulp from the olive seed instead of crushing the entire berry. In the northern districts of Lafita and Akkar the people employ a ruder method for pressing the crushed olives. They put the pulp into vessels of water and press it with their hands, and finally skim the oil from the surface with their hands. Moil. — The best soil for the olive tree is the alluvial. In limestone and chalky soils the trees grow more rapidly, and become strong, but are less fruitful. The, quantity of oil yielded by their berries is much less than the average product of others. 156A 15 616 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Irrigation. — Olive trees are Dot irrigated. Situation. — At Kaliuim the orchards are very near the sea, with a northwestern exposure. Rain-fall. — Though we have no meteorological observatory in Tripoli, still we consider the rain-fall in the city a little more than ttiat of Beirut, say about 40 to 42 inches per annum. G. YANNI, Acting Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Tripoli, March IS, 1884. AUSTRALASIA. REPORT BY CONSUL GRIFFIN, OF SYDNEY. Mr. J. H. Maiden, F. E. G. S., curator of the technological museum^ Sydney, and author of an interesting and valuable paper on olives and olive-oil, mentions two species of oleas, Oleapaniculata and Olcaapetala as indigenous in New South Wales. This fact he thinks shows that the climate here will be found suitable for olives generally. It is certain that many varieties of the olive tree producing fruit that have been planted here and in other parts of Australasia have done exceedingly well, but the fact nevertheless remains that olive culture has not yet proved to be of any commercial or economic value, except, perhaps, in the neighborhood of Adelaide, in South Australia, audjeveu there it is not re- garded as of sufficient importance to be included in the statistical returns of the government relating to area under crop, but the returns of exports show that, in 1887, 517 gallons of olive-oil, the produce of the colony, were exported, and in 1888 419 gallons. Sir Samuel Davenport, who is an authority on olive growing in Aus- tralia, informs me that his plantation, which is the largest in Australasia, contains about 1,500 trees, placed as boundary lines inside vineyards and in occasional odd corner lands. Al- though you may meet with a few olive trees in public and private grounds, where the climate is adapted for their growth, there are only a few individuals wh^> pay the cultivation any attention. Beyond my own fruit, I usually buy olives off trees in my neighborhood, so that annually I make from 1,200 to 1,500 gallons of oil. A few other persons make a little but the whole production is relatively insignificant, nor can bo worthy of notice until our people wake up to the fact that the olive tree is^me that they should, in their own interests, largely grow. Among the varieties cultivated by Sir Samuel for oil are the French Blanquette, Blanquettier, Yerdale, Pendulier, Italian — that of Lucca; Spanish, a few kinds, whose names he has not given me. He has nearly all the best known varieties used for oil and several that are used for pickling, such as the big Spanish, which, however, gives but little oil. THE OLIVE IN AUSTRALASIA. 617 Sir Samuel Davenport occasionally supplies truncheons for starting- plantations. Several thousand of these were sent to other parts of Australia last year for this purpose, the truncheon being the quickest and surest way of propagating the olive. The trees begin to bear at seven years of age and give about one gallon of oil from each tree. The fruit ripens in June and picking is continued through July and August. There is a plantation of 100 acres at a place called Stony Field, not far from Sir Samuel Davenport's property. The land is, how- ever, very poor, and it is said will not grow anything but olives. A calcareous soil appears to be the best suited for olive culture. Sir Sam- uel Davenport says: The calcareous nature of the soil around Adelaide and the wariu and dry climate assist in bringing the-olive as well as the vine to perfection. He adds : It is fortunate' for the laborers as well as for the farmers that the olive harvest fol- lows on the vintage, as the vintage follows on the harvest times of wheat and other grain. Sir Samuel, when examined by the Victorian Royal Commission on Vegetable Products, stated : In Adelaide, and from 100 to 200 miles from that city, there is a very sunny entrance to summer, and the summer itself is also warm enough. The characteristics of a cultivation to suit a dry soil consist very much of plants which have a woody char- acter and coM.sci|u<'iit]y are better able to resist the effects of long heats, and for that purpose all the South Australian soil, he thought, should be worked to agreat depth. The olive tree is delicate when flowering and will not fructify if much moisture is used. There is attached to the Aadelaide gaol an olive plantation of about 50 acres. Some of the trees are very valuable. The soil consists of choc- olate loam. It is well manured and irrigated. The yield of fruit is something enormous. The branches are often so heavily laden that they have to be propped up in order to sustain the fruit. Two hundred and fifty of the best trees were imported from the grove of Count Spada by Mr. \V. II. Boothby, formerly mayor of Adelaide, and the trees in the plantation are usually worked from the same stock. The olive groves of South Australia are located from about 10 to 50 miles from the sea-coast and at an elevation of from 150 feet to 200 feet above sea-level. The average [rain-fall for a term of years is about 22 inches, although in some years it falls as low as 13 inches. The aver- age reading of the barometer is 30.652 inches, and the average temper- ature 6-i0 above zero. The maximum 110°, and the minimum 30°. MANUFACTURE OF OIL. The method pursued by Sir Samuel Davenport is to take the ripe fruit and crush it into pulp in mill on the Chilian mill principle. This mill consists of two granite wheels, each weighing 7 tons, revolving in a 618 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. circular granite receptacle, worked by horse-power like a pudding-mill. About 100 pounds of fruit are pulped at one crushing. The time occu- pied is usually about twenty minutes. The pulp is then placed in an oval rice sack and the oil pressed out in a press of rather peculiar con- struction. The sacks are placed one on top of another inclosed in a strong iron-bound frame, resting on a cemented bottom with a false bottom grooved, so as to allow the oil to run away. Pressure is applied with a piece of wood, called a tongue, which is attached to a heavy beam or lever. It appears that this kind of pressure, which is perpendicular, has been found by experience to extract the oil better than a screw press, which it is said confines the oil in the pulp, while the slow, steady press- ure of the lever causes it to trickle through the bags. The oil of the first pressure is called u virgin oil,'7 and the report on some sent by Sir Samuel Davenport to Italy was, "that it resembles the * sublime 'oil more than the oil of commerce." The oil of the second pressure is of inferior quality and is run into slate cisterns kept specially for its re- ception. This quality of oil is used by manufacturers and sold at a lower price than virgin oil. The utmost cleanliness is practiced in the process throughout, the mills and presses being washed every day with hot water and soda. The South Australian oil commands a higher price than the imported oil and carried off the first prize at the Vienna Inter- national Exhibition. The oil made at the Adelaide gaol is also of very superior quality, and the process is said to be more economical than that employed by Sir Samuel Davenport. A press with hydraulic power is used at the gaol. Samples of the Australian oil were sent to the Colonial and Indian Exhibition in London, in 1886. It was so highly refined and the cost of production so heavy that it was necessary to exclude it from the manufacturer's schedule, namely. 2s. (49 cents) per pound quoted. That exhibited by Sir Samuel Davenport was described as being equal to the finest Lucca brands. GL W. GRIFFIN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Sydney, January 21, 1890. FIJI. Whether olives have been experimented with or not, I am unable to say, but I think not. That they are not grown here I know. The only fruit grown here for export is bananas and pines, both of which are quite extensively grown. ANDREWS A. ST. JOHN, Commercial Agent. UNITED STATES COMMERCIAL AGENCY, Levuka, January 11, 1890. CONTINENT OF EUROPE. FRANCE REPORT BY CONSUL TRAIL, OF MARSEILLES. THE OLIVE TREE IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE. The olive tree (Olea europea) is common to the whole of the south of France, and when nearing the south by rail the traveler can at once detect its familiar green color and its regular shape. For miles it can be seen on either side, sometimes in an uncared for, almost wild state, and sometimes in well-cared for, well-cultivated, regular plantations. It grows in almost any soil, in rocky or stony ground, and even without attention produces fruit that is a small, though uncertain, source of income to the poor peasant, but when well cultivated and attended to becomes a certain revenue to any farmer who takes the necessary care and trouble. The olive tree is essentially the tree of warm climates (it is said to originate from Egypt), but not of tropical heat, therefore the Mediter- ranean district suits it admirably. It succeeds well in places where the mean temperature of the year is from 59° to 61° Fahrenheit. It does not support heat above 104° nor cold below about 15°. Frost below the latter freezes and kills all the branches, and one is obliged to cut the whole tree down to the ground and wait till it has grown again. It is the greatest calamity that can befall an olive tree, for it takes about teu years to regain its former position, and even then it is often far from being as good. In 1820 almost all the olive trees in this consular district were killed by frost, which was ruin to thousands, oil being then twice the value of to-day. The olive tree is also essentially the tree of dry, stony, hilly, and undu- lating ground. Some of the hills and mountains along the coast are covered with olive trees, and inland plains are also planted with them ; but the fact must be mentioned too that in some districts, notably around Toulon and Hyeres, olives are being rooted out of the plains and vines planted in their place. Calcareous ground is favorable to olives for fine oil ; sandstone, schist, and granite soils are less favorable. When tin- soil is rich the4ree itself prospers and grows to a great size, but the fruit is less abundant and inferior. The best is n .mixed, fairly dry, ivd or calcareous soil, with exposure to the south. The ground must not be too dry nor too moist. Of the 619 620 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. two evils a too dry soil is to be avoided most. Drought is unfavorable to olive trees, as the olives dry and fall off before they have attained maturity ; but a good rainy winter or spring suffices to give enough moisture for the following summer. After a very rainy winter season an olive tree will stand excessive heat mu'ch better than after a dry one. Now olive trees uncared for and left to themselves produce, under favorable circumstances, a light crop about every two years, sometimes oftener even, and sometimes under unfavorable circumstances, less fre- quent; but cultivated and well cared for it becomes an interesting, im- portant, and highly profitable branch of agriculture; one can count upon fairly regular annual crops, and the result is generally satisfactory. The importance of olive-growing in countries that suit it can not be overestimated. In the south of France, and all around the Mediterranean, the olive plays a part in domestic economy of which little is known in other countries. It can be seen on tho rich man's table as a relish, or its prod- uct, in the form of salad oil or frying oil, is used daily in his kitchen, and a handful of plain olives form at certain times the daily meal of many a poor peasant and farm laborer. In countries and districts where butter is scarce and dear, olive-oil, in some form or other, is used in almost every dish that comes upon the table, and a fact that is not gen- erally known is that, in the sv.uth of France, olive oil is even preferred to butter for frying purposes. VARIETIES. There are many varieties of olive trees and many that have simply changed through change of climate, soil, or care, but the chief ones cultivated in this district are these : (1) The Brown olive tree, a slow growing, hardy tree (especially against cold), that gives few crops but usually abundant ones. The ojives are of a darkish hue, fairly good for pickling, but not so good for oil. This variety used to be grown very much but is less cultivated now. (2) The " Cayon" or white olive tree, a quick growing, small tree, with low branches ; is sensitive to cold but grows again quickly alter a frost. It produces olives in its third or fourth year, and gives^a crop pretty regularly every two years. Its olives are reddish, produce good oil that retains the taste of the olive, a fact that is appreciated in these districts. It is largely cultivated around Marseilles and Toulon. (3) The " Pendoulier " or high-growing olive tree, a good sized tree with large branches that frequently hang down. It produces a good crop, rather late in the season, pretty regularly every two years. Its olives are of a dark hue, and produce very fine, tasteless oil that is much appreciated for export, and which is almost exclusively used in the perfumery trade. This variety is largely cultivated in the Grasse and Mce district. THE OLIVE IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE. 621 The two latter kinds are excellent varieties for profit, and aie recom- mended for general purposes. In many respects the Cayon is prefera- ble, chiefly because, being a lower and smaller tree, it requires less room and is easier to attend to. Its height is usually from 12 to 16 feet. They can be planted at a distance of, say, 15 or 1C feet apart each way ; thus, from 150 to 160 would go on an acre. The Peudoulier, being a much larger tree, requires about 30 feet square to itself in order to develop fully ; thus, about 40 would go on an acre. CULTIVATION. The cultivation of the olive tree is very simple, and it is this that makes it pay. The chief points are digging, fertilizing, prun- ing. The ground ought to be well dug up around the tree to at least 6 feet from the stem, and if possible kept loose throughout the rainy sea- son. A good plan is to dig a trench around the tree and on sloping ground to connect these trenches one to the other by ditches, all to be closed up when the wet season is over. No irrigation is then necessary Artificial watering would only be called for in spring if the whole win- ter had passed without any rain at all, a circumstance that rarely, if ever, happens. FERTILIZING. Fertilizing ought to be done at the same time as digging, that is, dur- ing winter and spring. In places and farms where stable manure is obtainable at a reasonable price it can be used to considerable advan- ; in towns and in the proximity of oil-mills the refuse of these mills is a good fertilizer, and the dirty water that comes from the mills can be used, mixed or diluted with pure water. Powdered oil-cake is an excel- lent stimulant, and ought to be well mixed with the earth. Finally, the dead leaves that fall from the olive tree itself and the small branches cut off when pruning, well dug into the ground, are largely used as fertilizers, and are by no means to be despised. Strong fertilizers must not be used too frequently. . — The question of pruning is one that requires study, as it a great deal upon circumstances. An olive tree usually gives a crop every second year, therefore it ought to be pruned every second year, and then, of course, shortly after the gathering ot the crop, sa\ during January and February. But as cultivation in many cases makes the tree produce a crop every year, it is right in this case to prune the free slightly every year. When the trees are pruned every year it must be done carefully and lightly ; in fact it must only consist of a, slight thinning out. The chief thing to be borne in mind when pruning is, that those twigs that have blossomed and produced fruit once never do again, therefore that pruning must consist in cutting away useless twigs and branches to give light and air and make room for fresh and fruitful twigs and shoots. 622 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES, Pruning depends in a great measure, too, on the position and expos- ure of the trees. Olive trees exposed to high winds ought to be kept low and rather compact, but those in favorable positions, on sheltered hill-sides, for instance, can be allowed to grow larger. Thus it will be found that olive trees along the shores of the Rhone, and indeed in all the Rhone valley exposed to the pernicious mistral, are little more than bushes and are kept as such, whereas towards Toulon and further on, also in Tunis and other parts, the olive tree grows to a great height and size, and is pruned accordingly. PICKING AND CURING. The blossoming of the olive tree takes place in April and May, and if the rains have been favorable and no frost occurs the crop may be considered sure. The gathering of green olives for pickling is done from about the 20th of September to about the 10th of October and must be done by hand. The date of gathering depends, of course, upon the stage of the fruit, as it ought to be done just when the olive has reached its full size and be- fore it begins to turn black. G-reen olives can not be eaten as they come off the tree, because they are too bitter, but are pickled by the very simple process of soaking them in brine or very salt water. Sometimes ashes are used as well as salt. As soon as they have almost lost their bitter taste they must be taken out of the brine and put into clear water, if possible running water, and washed.* They are then ready to be packed in kegs, barrels, bottles, or jars, but with a little salt water or water highly seasoned or aromatized, and are fit for export, for storing, or for immediate use. Black olives for pickling are gathered, as their name indicates, when they are black, say during November. The pickling process of these is left to nature, i. e., they can be simply spread out on wicker-work hurdles or basket-boards exposed to sun and wind till their natural water has evaporated and with it their bitter taste. T^ey can then be eaten in their natural state, but are more palatable well seasoned with salt, pepper, and oil. The gathering of olives for the manufacture of oil must take place when they are black and quite ripe, generally from the end of Illovem - ber till the end of January. They can even be left to fall to the ground and then gathered up, but as they do not all fall off together, it often takes a long time to gather in the complete crop. Care must be taken not to let them rot on the ground, as such olives would spoil the oil for table purposes. A good plan is to wait till the first good fail has taken * The usual way in which green olives are pickled in this district is as follows: They are soaked in a solution of potash and water (1 pound to 1£ pounds of potash to a gal- lon of water) for about two hours, then put into clean water, which is changed once or twice a day until the water remains clear. After this the olives are ready to pack in salt water for keeping. THE OLIVE IN THE SOUTH OP FRANCE. 623 place and then to set about gathering in the whole crop either by shak- ing or picking off all the rest. Care and attention must be exercised when gathering in the crop for oil-pressing in not picking them before they are perfectly ripe, and also in not breaking off the young branches that will produce fruit the next year. In positions favorable to the ripening of the olives, that is, where the olives on any one tree ripen almost simultaneously, the trouble of gathering in the crop is rendered easier by stretching out coarse sheets or cloths under the trees and simply shaking or pulling the fruit off the branches into them. Now in order to obtain olive oil of superior quality there are sev- oral primary conditions to be observed. Care should be taken in selecting only sound olives and picking out all bad ones and foreign substances, such as stones, dirt, leaves, or anything that may have been gathered along with the olives. For superfine oils it is therefore advis- able to press olives that have been gathered by hand only, or at least shaken into cloths. Once gathered, the olives should be looked over, selected and separ- ated, and taken to the mills with as little delay as possible. They should not be left in heaps or in baskets for any length of time, as they are liable to ferment, which is detrimental to the obtaining of really fine oil. In some old-fashioned places peasants pretend that this fermenta- tion facilitates the pressing out of the oil and even increases the quan- tity ; but this idea is not to be recommended, as the slight gain, if gain there be, in quantity is more than counterbalanced by the differ- ence in quality.* Cleanliness in the mills is a great point. It is essential that all presses, millstones, casings, recipients be perfectly clean, so that no bad taste nor color can possibly be given to the oil during the process of manufacture. The simplest and the primitive way of manufacturing oil consists solely in placing the olives in a mill in which one or two millstones are revolved either by hand, by oxen, or by horses, until all the oil is crushed out. But this altogether primitive and imperfect mode can only be seen now in country places at great distances from cities and villages in Algeria, Tunis, and in some parts of France. It has long since been supplemented and superseded by other more perfect and complete processes. It is, however, seldom that a farmer or olive grower presses his own olives. In centers and districts of olive cultivation there are generally one or more oil-mills to be found. Proprietors of oil-mills can be divided into two classes, viz, those that are simply oil-crushers, who crush the olives and make the oil for the cultivator who brings his crop to them ; and these are paid in kind, i. e.7 they are not paid in ' This custom of allowing the olives to ferment before putting them into the oil presses is still observed in many parts of Spain, and for this reason Spanish olive-oil is generally of an unpleasantly strong taste. 624 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. money, but by agreement retain a certain percentage of the olives brought to them. This system often gives rise to certain abuses that are difficult to suppress, and the poor peasant frequently finds that he has been very far out in his calculation of the quantity of oil that his crop ought to have produced. The other class of oil-mill proprietors is composed of those that may be called merchant-crushers. These buy olives in large quantities from the growers and dealers, manu- facture the oil, and sell it themselves. There are several large man- ufacturers in the city of Marseilles who possess mills in several differ- ent centers of olive cultivation in this district and in Algeria and Tunis. These firms have very naturally acquired a certain reputation for their several marks, and many can command higher prices in the market on the strength of their reputation. Each manufacturer pro- fesses to have a special method of his own, but the basis is the same for everybody. The only difference that can exist is in the way of filtering and refining or clarifying the oil before it is finally casked or bottled. OLIVE-OIL MANUFACTURE. The process of manufacture is as follows : The olives ready to be pressed are first put into a mill, similar to those formerly used for the whole operation, but the olives are only half crushed, and no oil is crushed out, so that they form a shapeless mass. This mass is then distributed into round flexible kinds of baskets (French name "scour- tins") made of sparto grass and horse-hair, something in the shape of short sacks with mouths only half closed, containing about 15 pounds of the crushed olive mass. From ten to twelve of these bags are then placed, one above the other, in a pile under the regular oil-press and in such a way that the base of one bag rests on the open mouth of the one below. The mouth of the bag being smaller than the circumference of the bag, the mere fact of placing one above the other closes them. At the base of the press there is a ledge with an opening on one side, below which the receptacle for the oil is placed. When all is in its place the press is set in motion, in small mills by hand, in large ones by steam, and the oil gradually oozes out from all sides of the baskets and flows into the vessel below. The oil that flows from this first pressing is the best, and i£ called virgin oil (Huile vierge). When no more oil flows through the baskets the press is reversed and the crushed and hard mass of olives is taken out. This hard and appar- ently dry mass still contains a good quantity of oil of good ordinary qual- ity for kitchen purposes, and in order to obtain it the mass must be broken up and mixed with boiling water. The warm mass or pulp is then placed a second time into the baskets and the whole is pressed in the same way as the first lot, only, during the operation of pressing, boiling water is frequently thrown over it. The oil and water that flow from this THE OLIVE TREE IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE. €25 pressing are received and left to stand in large stone vessels or nietal tanks, and the oil that gradually mounts to the surface is the second quality oil. Now, the mass that is found in the baskets after the second press is either stored to dry and sold as oil-cake, or is sold to special mills that extract a third quality of oil by means of acids and other agents. But this quality can not be used for table purposes ; it is, however, very good for the manufacture of soap, and is largely used in this and other industries. The oil that comes from the first and second presses is not generally sold in its primitive state, but is refined and filtered, and it is in this process that some manufacturers excel others. The principle of refin- ing and filtering consists in letting the oil remain for a few weeks in tanks or immense jars, during which period a sediment gradually deposits itself at the bottom, and then passing the oil minus the deposit through filtering papers specially prepared and sold for the purpose. Some manufacturers even pass their superfine oil through specially pre- pared cotton-wool, which is certainly an expensive process. After being filtered the oil is ready to be casked or bottled for con- sumption. PRICES OF OIL. Concerning the prices of oil it is difficult to give any good idea, as so much depends on freight and charges on the oil from the time it leaves the mill till it reaches the consumer. .Really good oil in the mills in this district brings from 100 to 120 francs per 100 kilograms ($8.75 to $10.00 per 100 pounds), but prices of olive-oil in the Marseilles market vary from 95 francs for common kitchen oil up to 200 francs for the finest possible salad oil ($8.30 to $21 per 100 pounds), all according to quality and mark. Oil for manufacturing purposes is worth from 80 to 90 francs ($7 to $7.90 per 100 pounds). ADULTERATION. In many places adulteration is carried on to a great extent and re- fined cotton oil is largely used to mix with olive oil. Cotton oil being from 20 to 30 per cent, cheaper, and being tasteless, lends itself very iid \ iintageously to the adulteration of olive oil. It is an open secret, too, that vast quantities of pure cotton oil are shipped and sold as olive oil to those markets that prefer tasteless oil. Cotton oil is, however, used under its own name by many people who prefer a tasteless oil for fry- ing purposes. From the foregoing, it will be readily understood that olive-growing and oil-pressing are two distinct professions and that they are better if 626 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. kept separate. This explains the existence of professional oil-crushers who do nothing but press oil for the growers ; otherwise, unless a grower had a large amount of capital at his -disposal wherewith to work a mill and pay the necessary staff, he would never be able to attend to the digging, fertilizing, and pruning of his olive trees with due care, as this ought to be done just at the same time of the year as the all-im- portant first-oil pressing. The olive-grower, if he attends to his task properly, has plenty of work to do and the more he does the better he is repaid. As already men- tioned, an olive tree left to itself will produce fruit, but one well culti- vated will repay its owner tenfold. Though it does not pay to be too lavish in expenditure, yet an outlay of about $50 per acre per year is considered a sound investment in these regions. Considerably less is spent by many a grower, but if one has the courage to lay out about the sum mentioned one can generally depend upon being well repaid. A full-grown Pendoulier well fertilized and cared for will produce about 30 gallons of olives in a crop ; very large and fruitful trees have been known to produce up to 100 gallons even. A full-grown Oayon under the same circumstances will produce from 7 to 8 gallons in a crop, and there are many that can produce 20 gallons. The -value of olives varies according to crop and quality, but roughly speaking about $1 per gallon is the average price. The out-turn of oil varies according to the quality and condition of the olives, but the average yield is 14 per cent, by the two pressings plus 10 per cent, by acids, say a total rough average of 24 per cent. The olite-tree, well cared for, is almost always free from disease and parasites, but it is well to be on the look-out for any possible enemies. The branches are sometimes covered with a kind of yellow moss, pro- duced in some instances by too much dampness or moisture and in others by weakness of the tree. In the first case the ground must be imme- diately drained, and in the second it must be manured. In both cases it is well to cut off the branches so covered. Sometimes there is no remedy, and the trees must be rooted out, and the ground used for other purposes. Sometimes a sort of a cochineal, the Coccus, attacks olive trees, and in this case a hard brush, dipped in vinegar, is the best remedy 4 The Tinea oleolla occasionally attacks the leaves and the Eylerinus olece occasionally kills the buds, but these are not serious foes. Of all insects, that most to be feared is a fly that deposits its eggs in the wood of the olive; it is the Dacus olece. The larvae of this fly eat away and destroy whole branches, and it is extremely difficult to exterminate them. The best way to destroy them is to scrape the branches arid apply boiling water or a solution of lime, but even these are not always effectual. Nature, however, sometimes helps herself, and not nnfrequently another insect, the " Oynips^ deposits an egg in the hole bored by the Dacus and the larva of the Oynips kills and feeds on that of the Dacus, thus saving the tree. THE OLIVE TREE IN SOUTHERN FRANCE. 627 The olive is a tree that attains a great age, aud tbat, with care, is said never to die. It can, however, be reproduced by cuttings and by seedlings that must be grafted the second year. CHAS. B. TRAIL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Marseille*, April 30, 1890. THE OLIVE TREE IN SOUTHERN FRANCE. REPORT BY VICE-CONSUL MARTIN, JR., OF MARSEILLES. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 41$.] Varieties. — The olive tree is only cultivated in France in the depart- ments bordering upon the Mediterranean. From the remotest antiquity it has been a source of great riches to this part of the country, as it thrives on land where no other culture could be attemped, and is pro- ductive for centuries. The varieties are almost numberless, as the tree takes a different name in almost every district where it is cultivated, and are distinguishable by the fruit only, as the appearance of the tree is nearly the same for all the varieties. The best-known varieties cultivated in view of the fruit are the " Espanenque," "Prnnaou," "Triparde," " Picholine," u Bouteillan," " Verdale," etc. Those that produce the best oil are the uAglandaon" of Aix, the "Soloumen" of Salon, the "Amelon"in the de- partments of Herault aud Bouches du Rhone, the "Brun" and "Cayon" in that of Var, and uAubanenque," "Saurin," " Bougette," etc. Soil. — The nature of the ground appears to have but little influence with the yield of the olive tree; still a stony soil, with a rocky substra- tum, a mixture of clay and sand, or calcareous and gravelly earth with a little humus, appears to be more favorable than marly, granite, or schistic soil. Situation. — As to the situation, hill-sides or table-lands sheltered from high winds, with an easterly or southerly exposure, give the best re- sults. The proximity to the sea must be rather beneficial than other- wise, as many orchards are planted on the very shore, and those that are at the greatest distance from it are as a rule the most sensitive to cold weather. In fact, there are none to be found far off from the coast- Cultivation. — The process of cultivation is of the most simple descrip- tion. As a matter of fact, many orchards that are not cultivated pro- duce the most esteemed oil, although in smaller quantities. In many others one hoeing in the year is deemed sufficient. In a few, where the IHM-S are planted in quincunx at a distance (which is generally adopted) of 10 meters or 33 feet from oanli other, tht>. alleys formed between them are tilled with the plow, great care being taken not to hurt either the 628 FRUIT CULTURE IK FOREIGN COUNTRIES. roots below or the branches above. There is in this way left around each tree a square space, which is then hoed by hand. The same oper- ation is repeated in the course of spring, and again in summer. Pruning. — Pruning is generally considered as unnecessary, and must be conducted with great care, as the tree is liable to suffer by injudicious or excessive lopping. It is only applied once in three or four years, and confine*d to the suckers and the withered or entangled branches. Fertilizers. — Fertilizes should also be applied with a great deal of precaution. The best manure is that consisting of a mixture of animal and vegetable matter. It is placed once in four years a little beneath the surface of the ground. Close contact with the roots should be avoided. Many cultivators prefer to dig out the earth from around the foot of the tree and fill up the hole with fresh mold. An excess of ma- nure has the same effect on the tree as an excess of water. It rots the roots, and in all cases produces an abundance of aqueous sap. As the olive tree vegetates all the year round, this abundance of sap makes it more liable to the effects of frost and cold. It also rends frequently the bark of the boughs, and flows out through these fissures with con- siderable detriment to the tree. Irrigation. — On the other hand, irrigation, while impairing the qual- ity of the oil, produces much larger quantities of fruit that is also larger in size, and in many districts where fruit forms the object of culture the orchards are frequently watered by hand, with watering pots, or, when the water supply is at hand, irrigated after the manner that meadows are. Planting. — The olive tree can stand any degree of drought, but a tem- perature of from 10° to 14° above 0, Fahr., accompanied with snow, kills the boughs and trunk. There is then no remedy left but to cut the tree on a level with the ground, and allow the roots to grow new shoots, or to root it entirely and replace it by new plants. The olive tree is remarkably reproductive, and any part of a twig would, in course of time, take root and give birth to a tree. A shoot from the old roots about 2 inches in diameter is generally selected for reproduction; it is taken off from the roots with care, so as not to hurt either the scion or the roots, arid planted in a square hole 6 feet on each side of the surface, and 3 feet deep. The hole is usually filled with other earth than that which has been taken out of it. The young tree, when planted, should not be more than 4 feet above the level of the ground, and fre- quently bears fruit after five or six years. Trees grown from the kernel of the fruit do not begin to be fruitful until the age of fifteen or eighteen. For this reason, this mode of reprodution is only practiced in nurseries, where young trees are also raised from wild scions and slips, and sold at the rate of 1 franc or 1.25 francs. These are in many cases preferred to the trees grown from old roots, and when. properly packed can be transported to long distances. The yield, proceeds, and cost of cultivation must necessarily vary widely according to the manner in which orchards are cultivated. The cost may amount to any sum between $5 and $20 per acre. TriE OLIVE TREE IN SOUTHERN FRANCE. 629 As to the yield, it is even more variable; each tree may pay from ."in centimes to 3 francs. As a rule, an olive tree is only productive every other year; some varieties, wheu placed under the most favorable conditions of soil and weather, produce two years in three, but in no cast- is the yield constant. It varies from 60 to 535 gallons of fruit per acre. The average price of the fruit ranges from 12 to 22 francs per hectoliter (9 to 17 cents per. gallon). The quantity of fruit turned into oil is not the same in all districts, some of which prepare a much larger quantity for table use than others. On an average little over two-thirds of the whole crop is sent to the mill. Preparation. — Olives intended for table use must be perfectly sound, and of course are picked among the largest on the tree. There are two modes of preserving olives, in pickle and in oil. Those that are to be preserved in oil are picked when perfectly ripe, that is, black. They are, without any further preparation, steeped and kept in olive oil with some fennel, coriander, salt, and pepper. The pickled olives are picked he lore they arrive at maturity, and as soon as they have acquired a bright green color. They are pricked and rolled into wood ashes to set free all the oil they may already contain. After being washed they are placed in the pickle, where they remain until consumed. The "Picho- line'1 and u Verdale" are the varieties mostly prepared in pickle here. The " queen olives" are the produce of a variety of tree that is not ;:!-o\vn in this country. They are imported at this port from Spain. Nearly all the production of preserved olives is consumed in France. The exportation is exceedingly small, and does not amount to more than a few thousand kilograms, that are mostly sent to Algeria. The extraction of oil is made in special mills where the farmers bring their crops by quantities of 400 liters (about 106 gallons). For this quan- tity, called " molte" in the country, the mill-owner generally returns 40 liters or 10 per cent, of oil. The olives are thrown into a recipient, where they are crushed under the action of two wheels measuring two and a half feet in diameter and worked by water or steam power. After two hours the olives are reduced to a sort of a paste, which is placed in a number of grass bags and pressed. The oil thus expressed is called " virgin oil," the quantity being about one-half of the whole produce. The paste is then taken out of the bags, spread out on a cloth, broken up, and replaced in the bags. Each bag is drenched with about five gal- lons of boiled water and placed again in the press. The mixture of oil and water thus obtained is left for a day in the receivers. The oil comes to the surface, is skimmed off, and in most cases mixed with the virgin oil first extracted. The mill-owner charges 3 francs for each " molte" and keeps the residues, from which he again extracts, on his own ac- count, by a supplementary and more abundant addition of boiling water, an inferior grade of oil called u ressence." There is still left in the residue after this operation a small quantity of oil that is extracted, jn special factories, by means of sulphide of carbon. 630 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Diseases. — The diseases of the olive tree are few in number and sel- dom fatal to the tree. The most common are : The " rnofeV or unoir," which covers the bark and leaves with a sort of black matter that is sometimes friable, sometimes compact. The origin and causes of the disease are not well known. It is counteracted by a sprinkling of lime and water and by a pruning, more extensive than usual, so as to let the black deposit be freely swept off by the wind. The "monffe" is produced by an excess of wetness, that decays the sap. When the vege- tation is staid and the leaves turn yellow, the roots and branches at- tacked must be cut off, as also those parts of the stem where the rotten sap, known by its stench and black color, has found its way, and drain- ing trenches should be established without delay. Insect pests. — Olive trees planted near the sea- shore are sometimes covered with a coat of green moss, that is not in itself injurious to the tree. Large numbers of microscopic insects live in that moss, but do not seem to hurt the tree ; so that nothing is done to remove them. Cochineals are, among the parasitic insects that live on the sap of the olive tree, the most common and most dangerous; they are driven away by rubbing the boughs and branches with a piece of cloth soaked in vinegar or whiting. No remedy has yet been found to protect the olive orchards against their worst enemy, an insect called the Dacus olea. It is a species of fly that deposits its eggs in the fruit. The larvae feed on the pulp of the olive before it comes to maturity; when they make their exit they fre- quently cut the peduncle of the fruit, which falls to the ground. When the olive remains on the tree the produce in oil is considerably impaired both in quality and quantity. The damage made by the " ver" (worm), as the Dacus olea is commonly called, has been particularly great in jhe last two or three years. J. S. MARTIN, JR., UNITED SPATES CONSULATE, Vice-Consul. Marseilles, Match 11, 1884. NICE. i (REPORT BY CONSUL HATHAWAY, OF NICE.) Introductory. — I have the honor to submit the following report on the olive, as it has come under my observation within the district of this consulate, accompanied by some statistical data relating to its products, and accurate directions, obtained by diligent inquiry from reliable sources, for its successful cultivation. This tree, of the family Oleacece, which is a feature of the remotest historic landscapes, finds its natural home in the portions of southern Europe bordering immediately upon the Mediterranean basin. Here, restrained only by the choice of man auij. the limitations of soil and THE OLIVE IN NICE 631 altitude, it covers the slopes, hill-sides, and valleys by millions. The general configuration of the coasts, the mountain barriers, sheltering against northern winds, and the proximity of the sea itself, which serves, as a vast reflector of the sunbeams, are explanatory of this result. It attains to a height usually of 20 feet, and even to 50 feet in some localities, and commonly to an age that appears almost fabulous. One of this species — a wonder of its neighborhood — lately carelessly de- stroyed at Beaulieu, in this vicinity, had a positive record of five cen- turies, and measured 36 feet in circumference when it fell. It has entire evergreen, lanceolate leaves, gray underneath, and its flowers, which appear in June, are white, and disposed in axillary branches, and re- semble the blossoms of the elder. Its fruit, named olive, is exceedingly prolific under culture, and is oval in shape, with a ligneous kernal inclosing a seed in form like the almond. The flesh of the fruit yields about 70 per cent, of its weight in oil, and is firm and covered with a soft skin, green colored before maturity, becoming an intense violet black when ripe. Varieties. — Among the varieties of olives here I note the following: (1) The black point, called in the dialect of Nice u Prince Neri." This is the best quality of the fruit kno\vn in this district, and is grown at Beau- lieu and at the promontory of St. Jean. These olives are gathered when entirely ripe, are then dried in the sun, and are excellent for the table. (2) The "Pitcholine" and the "Caillette" (so called), both of which are esteemed best for preserving when gathered green. (3) The "Blanquette" (light of color), the "Sauvagette" (wild olive), and the "Nostrala" (proper olive of Nice), all especially useful in pro- duction of oil. Yield of oil. — It is computed that the amount of oil produced in Italy is 33,000,000 and in France 7,000,000 gallons annually. The amount of production in this department, although no statistics thereof are published, may be safely estimated at from 50,000,000 to 60,000,000 pounds biennially. This estimate does not include the very considerable quantity arriving here from Tuscany and Naples, nor the increasing importations to this port from Corsica, all adding to the immense stock of the refiners here, and from hence, in the distributions of commerce, sold in Europe and America under the name of "Olive Oil of Nice." Situation. — The tree does not vegetate readily beyond 2,000 feet above sea-level or 45° in latitude. The department of Alpes Maritimes, situated 43° 42' north latitude and 4° 56' longitude east from the me- ridian of Paris, is most favorably adapted to its growth. The said department has an extent of 46,850 hectares of land (115,770 acres), more or less wooded with the olive, of which 12,000 hectares (29,650 acres) are exclusively planted with olive trees. From the Kiver Var up to the Kiver Koya the hill-sides and valleys surrounding this region are sheltered against northern winds by the " contreforts n of the Alps. The coasts facing the sun, the immense mirror of the Mediterranean re- flecting back the sunbeams and the triple girdle of mountains, gradually 632 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. sloping into hills toward the sea and protecting the country from frost, are the unsurpassed conditions, with the temperature, for the nurture of the olive and the maturity of its fruit. Nowhere is the earth blessed with a continuance of more polarized light. The temperature during the winter months, in which the olive ripens, is like that of spring in middle France. The winter is deemed exceedingly rigorous when the thermometer falls below 32° Fahr. Thirty years of accurate observation have proved that of the fifty-six days of rain during the year forty-two were in autumn. October and November are the months in which the psychrometer gives the highest average. In May the temperature aver- ages 64°, in June 70°, and the strong heats of July and August 78° Fahr. During six months, viz : from the close of May to the end of Novem- ber, more than one hundred days are enjoyed without clouds. The win- ter temperature on the whole, in the shade, averages 52°. The years when it falls below 32° are rare but ruinous. Such an exceptional cli- mate generally allows the fruit in winter to reach its full maturity. The tree grows everywhere here, except in marl or clay or other moist conditions, but best ill a dry soil, on slopes toward the sun, sufficiently sheltered. On steep declivities, where quantity and quality of oil are only aimed at, no crop of any kind allowed beneath its foliage, but else- where and in plains a mixed cultivation is profitably employed. In prosperous seasons the olive is more remunerative than corn or the vine. Picking. — The gathering of the crop begins in November and continues until May. The harvest is divided into three periods of two months each. From the first is produced an oil high-colored and called " fine," '/he second produces a straw-colored oil called " superfine," the last a pale-colored oil called " extra superfine." The product of the first period is most dense and has a strong flavor of the fruit, and can be Congest preserved. But the best quality of the oil is that from the last gatherings of April and May, when the fruit has become fully ripened. This, although less flavored than the others mentioned, has more sweet- ness and limpidity, and is in great demand in the home markets and not always easily procured for export in its finest grades. Oil manufacture.— -To express the oil from ripe fruit freshly gathered and unmixed with that which is immature or otherwise of bad condi- tion is an essential rule, and to this method the reputation of the oil of Nice is mainly due. The olive is gathered from small trees bV hand, and from large ones it is knocked off with poles. The first manner is preferable, as the fruit thus escapes being bruised and as any lengthy contact with the soil affects its flavor. But this can not so readily be practiced either on large trees or slopes or fields of large extent. Women and boys are employed for the purpose, for which as wages they receive 77 cents for every 20 liters. The mills for grinding the olives are located on the little water- courses of the region, and a stone wheeling around on its axle triturates the fruit and reduces it to a paste. The latter is then placed in bags of esparto and squeezed under a press in the mill. The olive oil then THE OLIVE IN NICE. 633 escapes through the texture of the bags and runs into a receptacle un- derneath, it is this first pressure which produces that which is styled 44 virgin oil." Afterwards the bags of said paste are removed and soaked in boiling water and placed a second time under the press. The same operation is a third time renewed, when all the oil is extracted. The second pressing yields the ordinary oil of commerce, and the third that used for illuminating purposes, and generally consumed here in prefer- enee to all other oils. It is styled " huile de colza.'' The farmers bring their oil to market in barrels of about 200 pounds weight, or retain it in their cellars in earthen jars, glazed 'within, and guarded from dust by wooden covers. Merchants keep it in large, deep, cemented tanks, over which their warehouses are built, thus pro- viding an even temperature. From these tanks the oil is drawn by pumps for the process of filtra- tion and bottling for sale. The filter consists of a series of boxes, one above the other, with perforated bottoms, and lined with layers, about an inch in thickness, of white cotton-wool. Adulteration of oil. — That the adulteration of the olive oil, notwith- standing the severe penalties of the law therefor, is to some extent practiced is undoubted, The fraud is accomplished by mixing with the genuine the oil of the oleaginous seeds of cotton, sesamum, and others. Immediate discovery of the imposition appears impossible, al- though much study has been given to the matter. Densities, degree of congelation, refraction, specific weight, and all other chemical prop- erties must be taken into consideration, which is a labor of hours. The following process of detection is generally used: In the trial tube is placed 0.3086 grains of dried albumen, to which is added 30.864 grains of nitric acid, and an equal weight of oil. The tube is then heated over an alcohol lamp and its contents mixed by ebullition. The operation affords the following tests: (1) If the oil be genuine olive the color will be of a yellow feebly greenish tint; (2) if the olive has been mixed with 5 per cent, of seed-oil the color will be of an amber yellow tint; (3) the tint of the mixture will deepen down to a deep or- ange in proportion to the amount of the foreign oil. Insect pests. — The special dangers to which the olive trees are ex- posed are frost, wind, hail, and the ;S acres), and the total production of olive oil about 3,385,591 hectoliters (or 89,437,157 gallons), distributed as follows : Districts. Area of cul- tivation. Total produc- tion of olive oil. Hectares. 4, 591 Hectoliters. 6,381 3, 5:J6 9,321 84,931 343,264 Kmilia 4,694 14, 757 76, 271 195 659 119, 278 285, 006 41 6C7 95 834 270, 000 557, 649 139 928 636 540 Sjeilv .. 104, 373 730, 238 Sardinia -- 51,582 211, 005 The reports of the Italian minister of agriculture contain much that is interesting in regard to this industry. The olive is indigenous to Asia. It is mentioned in Genesis, Hesiod, and Homer, but was not introduced into Europe, according to Pliny, until the two hundredth year of Rome. It is hardy, and grows wild in southern Europe — Liunseus calls it Olea Europcea, as if indigenous to Europe. It is cultivated in Spain, Greece, Italy, Languedoc, and Prov- ence. The forty-fifth degree of latitude is considered the northern limit of culture. Great heat or cold is unfavorable to the plant. It is not found in Africa far from the Atlantic; and Humboldt noticed in various parts of St. Domingo and South America that it grew there without bearing fruit. It has been erroneously claimed that the olive would only grow near the sea. It is found at great distances inland, but abounds most near the coast, where the temperature is more congenial. The variation of altitude at which the plant can thrive depends upon the region. In central Italy the greater part of the olive zone is below an elevation of 500 meters, and in Sicily below one of 600, while in the basins of the lakes of Garda and Iseo 450 meters is the extreme limit. At this extrenfe limit the cultivation is unprofitable, as the fruit often fails to mature. The plant requires a soft and temperate climate. In districts where the temperature is higher than required by the plant it is cultivated by preference on elevated lands ; in those where the tem- perature is low it is given a warm position. The north wind is the enemy of the olive, In the same region it flourishes on high lands pro- 662 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. tected from that wind, and languishes in low lands exposed to it. Upon the plains of Mugello and the Borgo San Lorenzo, swept by northerly winds, it will not grow, but nourishes 3 or 4 miles a way on the hills pro- tected by the Apennines. Cold affects the olive according as the atmosphere is dry or humid. The same degree of cold is more fatal in spring than in winter, because in the former season, the plant having entered the period of vegetation, the young and tender germs are injured ; so by reason of the greater moisture the cold of the plains is more injurious than that of the up- lands. Nothing is more destructive than the formation of ice upon the branches after snow-storms. The greatest cold which the plant can. resist is about J0° Reaumur ; at 12° not only the leaves perish but the trunk and roots above ground. It sometimes suffers at even 7° when the cold is accompanied with humidity, or when the plant is in a state of vegetation. Sometimes the leaves are destroyed by a frost appar- ently light. The greater part of the olives of Liguria and Tuscany per- ished in the years 1700, 1782, 1820, and 1845. As to the soil there is not much difficulty. Only exceedingly light or wet land is bad for the plant. It does better ordinarily in argilla- ceous or calcareous earth, mixed with stones, to which its roots cling, holding steadily against strong winds. The olive is propagated in four ways — by seeding, by cuttings, by grafting, and by the system called ovolo. Italian cultivators generally adopt the last method, but as the others are not unfrequently used it may be useful to give some facts in regard to them. The manner of seeding is much the same as with other plants. The olive used for this purpose is selected from trees well grown, of a robust variety, possessing the qualities desired, and is stripped of its oily pulp. Seeding involves the labor of transplanting and improving by grafting, as the new plants raised from a given variety will not reproduce it, but return usually to the wild type. Another objection to this system is the slow growth of the olive. Hesiod said of it, " Those who sow the seed never gather the fruit." However, some use this method, as plants thus obtained have greater dimensions and a more perfect root system. When cuttings are used they should be young and vigorous, from 50 to 55 centimeters in length, and about the size of a man's wrist. The bark must be bright, smooth, and sappy, and contain towards the lower part some knots, upon which roots form more easily. The cuttings are set in the ground in November in warm localities, and in February and March in temperate. About one-third of the cutting should be above ground, and the upper extremity, where cut, covered with grafting- wax. Although the olive is an exceedingly hard wood, it puts forth roots from cuttings as readily as the willow^ or poplar. Full-grown trees, even when much denuded of roots, can be transplanted from the forest, and often when those in the olive-yards are destroyed they are replaced iu this way. Till! OLIVK IN ITALY. 663 In the process of grafting sprouts are t;ikeu from the base of the tree and the operation performed as with other species of trees. The propagation of the olive by means of ovolo (eggs), called by the ancients occhi (eyes), is the usual mode, because surer, quicker, and cheaper than any other. Ovolo are woody excrescences on the lowest parr of the trunk and on the roots of the olive, and so called because of a supposed resemblance to eggs. These are detached with a sharp knife and put in the ground to the depth of 4 inches. This is done in November in warm districts, and in March where colder. When the ovolo germinates, one shoot is preserved and the others cut off. The preserved shoot is steadied against wind by a stake to which it is tied. The plant thus started is removed after three or four years to the per- manent olive-yard. In most cases the olive has to be grafted, as the young plants usually take the wild type, and consequently yield only small fruit. By cultivation a number of varieties of the olive have been obtained, differing according to localities ; some distinguished by a greater or less vigor of plant, some by drooping, and others by erect leaves, and more especially by the form, size, and color of the fruit. The color varies from green to red, and in some cases to a purple, nearly black. Profes- sor Orphanides discovered in a grove of Attica an olive perfectly white, and which was exhibited at the Vienna Exposition under the name of Olea cucocarpa, or chionocarpa. Tavanti's work mentions twenty-one varieties in Tuscany. Picouni observed sixteen in Liguria, and Caruso fifteen in Sicily. The extent and kind of pruning depends upon the variety of the olive, and must be performed with care. Composts of slow assimilation, such as horns, bones, woolen rags, etc., are most used. OLIVE OIL. X » The quality of the oil depends greatly upon harvesting the olives at the proper time. If this is done either too early or too late the product lias a fatty flavor and odor. Italian oil. — The oils of Lucca, Calci, a-ud Buti are the best in the world, and those of Uuibria and Liguria are but little inferior. The best article is produced in moderately warm regions. Thus the oils of Italy are more esteemed than those of the Orient, and of the former the oils of Pisa, Lucca, Arrezzo, Perugia, and San Kemo are better than those of Sicily and the Neapolitan provinces. While soil, climate, and the variety of the plant affect more or less the quality of the oil, much more depends upon harvesting and pressing the olives properly. This is done much better in central Italy than farther south. Spanish oil. — Next to Italy comes Spain in extent of olive cultivation. According to Mueller the production of oil in that country is about 1,135,750 hectoliters per year. It is chiefly cultivated in the basins 156A 18 664 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Guadalquivir, Ebro, and Guadiana, and the product constitutes an im- portant branch of commerce for Andalusia, Aragon, Catalonia, Murcia, Navarra, and the Balearic Islands. Spanish oils are very little esteemed, and their exportation is rather diminishing. French and Algerian oils. — In France the cultivation is confined to the southern districts, and covers 94,000 hectares. The production is about 250,000 hectoliters. In Algeria about 150,000 hectoliters are produced, of a quality inferior to that of Italy, but better than that of Levant, Spain, or Portugal. Austrian oil. — In Austria the olive is a little cultivated in the southern Tyrol, in the territory of Gorixia, Gradisa, and Trieste j more exten- sively in Istria and Dalmatia. The yearly production is about 264,000 quintals. Of the production in Greece accurate statistics are wanting, though it is known that the cultivation is extensive. Ottoman oil. — In the Ottoman Empire it is cultivated in Syria, Brussa, Eoumelia, and in the islands of Candia, Cyprus, Metilino, Samos, and Ehodes. Greek oil. — Grecian and Turkish oils are, however, only used in Eu- rope for the manufacture of soap. PRICES OF OLIVE OIL. The price of olive oil fell from 170 francs per quintal in 1879 to 120 francs in 1882, and the several grades of this article are quoted in the Bulletin of Agriculture, of the 8th instant, as follows : Oil of Lucca, 168 to 195 francs ; olive oil for burning, first quality, 85 to 88 francs ; second quality, 78 to 80. The cause of this depreciation is the few uses to which olive oil can be put and the increasing competition of seed oils. The larger olive harvests in Italy and the whole Mediterranean basin is an- other and lesser cause. The competition is principally with the kinds of olive oil used for industrial purposes, and which represent about two- thirds of the entire production. Alimentary oils scarcely feel this com- petition. In the retail market the price of the oils of Lucca and Barri has been almost unchanged, and the demand for them abroad fully sus- tained. COTTON-SEED OIL. % The seed-oil industry is assuming considerable proportions. Several kinds of this oil were exhibited at the Milan exposition in 1881, and classed among alimentary oils. There were some beautiful specimens of sesame oil exhibited by Messrs. Scerno & Gismundi, who were then producing 30,000 quintals per year. The importation of cotton -seed oil was arrested in 1882, since which the demand for oleaginous seeds has increased. In 1882 the importa- tion of these seeds amounted to 252,835 quintals, being 52,335 quintals more than the previous year. It is therefore urged that a duty should Tin: OLIVE IN GENOA. 665 be imposed on all imports of seeds and seed oils if it is to be continued on cotton-seed oil. It is claimed that the duty on cotton-seed oil has served no good pur- pose; that the mixing of cotton oil with olive was not prejudicial to health, and that the mixture is now made with oils from flax and nuts, and other deleterious substances ; and that the competition formerly coming from cotton oil has been replaced by oils of other seeds and by nut oils. It is stated on good authority that no practical method exists by which these mixtures and their properties can be detected, and it is felt that frauds will diminish, and the public good be promoted, when prejudices against good seed oils disappear and they are sold under their true names. DUNHAM J. GRAIN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Milan, November 10, 1883. GENOA. REPORT BY CONSUL FLETCHER. [Republished from Consular Reports, No. 4H.] Varieties. — The best olive oil is extracted from the following-named trees: I. The Giuggiolina, known as the Lavagnina or Taggiasca. II. Eadiola or Kazzuolo and Pendolina. III. Grappolosa or Merlina-Pignola doppia. IY. Tondolina or Pignola. V. Martellina or Martena-Papollina. Seeding and planting. — The length of time between seeding or plant- ing and fruit bearing depends altogether on the manner in which the work of cultivation is performed. If trees are raised from seed, sixteen years is allotted before fruit bearing ; if by sprout, plant, or shoot, it depends on the age thereof; if by snags, it will take from twelve to thirteen years before a crop can be realized. A full crop can not be expected till the tree reaches twenty-five or thirty years. Plants brought up from seed and shoots must be ingrafted ; otherwise the trees and fruit remain wild ; snags also ; in fact, all must be grafted if taken from the root or below the graft of the parent tree. The mode of cultivating olives in this province is as follows : Olives are multiplied by shoots or sprouts ; they are, when sufficient vitality is assured, replanted in the soil where it is designed they should grow; they are mulched every three years with manure of slow decom- position as, for example, the scrapings off horns, grounded hoofs, woolen rags, and stable manure. Manure of quick decomposition is good for 666 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. only oiie year, and lias this disadvantage, it develops more leaves on the tree and rank vegetation than it does fruit. The trees must be kept clean, that is, free from sprouts and weeds ; standing water must not be allowed around them, for in such case the wood will soon rot and be a subject for a malady called "lupa," which very much shortens the life of the tree. Olive Regina, or queen olive, known in this province under the name of Olive of Spain, is a special quality grown from the imported tree cul- tivated for special purposes. The fruit, however, contains but little oil, and that little has to be extracted before using the olive for culinary purposes. Production. — If olive trees are well cared for they generally give abundant fruit when they attain the age of thirty years, and even long after this age they increase if properly handled. An olive tree is liable to live for centuries if not destroyed by the " lupa." The production of the olive depends on the care taken in its cultiva- tion, and much on the weather, for, be it understood, the fruit is ex- posed nearly the en tire year, before maturity, to all atmospheric changes. The yield therefore depends largely on the meteorological vicissitudes of the seasons, and for this reason the exact figures can not be given. This much, however, can be said, an olive tree between twenty-five and thirty years old will produce about 3 gallons of oil. A hectare of land (=2.471 acres), in fine, if properly cultivated, ought to produce about 300 gallons of oil. The same measurement of land will produce better results providing the conformation of the soil permits the trees to be set closer than 12 meters, or about 40 feet, apart. The olive crop can be considered only from a biennial stand-point, and the above is the average for two years. The relation between the weight of olives and the quantity of oil is not constant in all crops, nor equal on all lands, for this reason : On flat lands and in places where rains are frequent less oil and more water exists in the fruit ; on the other hand, if the grove is on the hill-side the proportion is as one to four, or one gallon of oil from four gallons of fruit. The distance between trees on lands exclusively devoted to olives should be about 50 feet — if on flat land and in orchards — on hill-sides 39 feet, or even less — always less onpedente or abrupt inclinations4. Flats are especially prepared on hilly lands, and so arranged that the roots of one tree can not run down and interfere with those of another. In other words, the roots of trees are limited to certain space by the erection of stone walls, and when thus arranged the olive plant will flourish at a distance of only 30 feet apart from its neighbor. Pickling. — For pickling purposes olives are gathered before they change from green to a reddish color. The faintish tinge from the original green indicates incipient ripeness. For pickling, olives are usually gathered toward the close of August. The olive must be fully THE OLIVE IN GENOA. 667 ripe when picked for oil. When matured it drops from the tree. This occurs late in the fall or early winter, as in all its stages, from bud to full-grown fruit, the atmosphere also has its influence in bringing the olive to maturity. For table use you have the olive in three ways : (1) Pickled green. (2) Dried when ripe. (3) Pickled when dead ripe. They are prepared as follows : The green olive is placed in a strong solution of lime long enough to take the oily substance out; the well- matured olive is dried in the sun ; the ripe pickled olive undergoes the same process as the green, only salt is used instead of lime. Further, the green olive, when purged of oil, is conserved in salted water. The dried olives are placed in jars, with sufficient oil on top to prevent the air drying and oxidizing the bulb, but no oil is allowed to sink to the bottom of the jar, for fear of getting rancid and thereby communicate a bad odor to the fruit. Aromatic herbs in certain quantity are gen- erally used to aromatize the fruit preserved in this way. The ripe olive is pickled in brine of salt, as stated, but the brine is frequently changed in order to extract the oil and sour flavor. The olive must not be too salt. When prepared as given above olives will keep a long time. Oil extraction. — Oil is extracted from the olive by crushing the fruit in a stone press. When a certain quantity are reduced to a pulp the crushed mass is placed in a sieve-like receptacle, and this mass when pressed produces the oil. Pressing by hydraulic engines has been tried in the past, in order to obtain a larger quantity of oil, but this power proved too great in that it actually spoiled the oil. Such a pressure is used now only for extracting oil from husks. Results. — The best results in olive culture are derived from hill-sides and protected by sea winds ; in such locality even the most gentle and tender kinds are comparatively safe. Olives raised on flat lands, as elsewhere mentioned, contain more water, for the reason that they are not sufficiently exposed to the sun (on account of mountain shade), and are always liable to be frost-bitten. Even on table-lands the olive is often damaged by winds, which forces the fruit to fall before matu- rity. Cold winds always hinder the growth of olives, and they are especially damaging to young branches. Soil and climate. — In Liguria, including all the province of Genoa, the highest elevation of land on which the olive is cultivated ranges about 1,000 feet above sea-level ; the orchards, however, are all in the south side of the hills and protected by lofty mountains from north winds. The olive tree will prosper in almost any kind of soil, rocky land in- cluded, except that of a sandy nature ; the latter absorbs too much heat, and therefore cause rapid evaporation, which deprives the soil of the necessary moisture in summer. Very damp soil is prejudicial for the reason that the tree is liable to the ravages of the "lupa." Olive 668 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. groves are not irrigated in the province of Genoa; the soil is generally considered strong enough to retain moisture a long time,, even in the dryest seasons. Young plants are watered, however, in the summer, but great caution is practiced in this work, for too much moisture in- jures the roots and then comes the "lupa" plague. Throughout this entire province the olive orchards are all on the sea-coast ; they extend inland but a short distance. You can find inland places, however, where olives would bear well; that is to say, in situations where the temperature undergoes no serious change. The price of olive oil varies according to the quality and quantity of the crop. For same reason the average annual yield can not be given. On these points I particularly inquired, but failed to obtain satisfac- tory answer. Cost of cultivation. — Answer 5 and 6 give possible yield under ordi- nary conditions, so I pass to the cost of cultivating olive groves. The work is divided into two parts each year, first, plowing so-called flat lands and hoeing hill-side orchards; second, clearing the ground of weeds. The following statistics were given me by a gentleman experienced in olive culture, and while his statements may not be as clear as de- sired I can not do better than give them as narrated : One day's plowing costs 11 francs ($1. 90), and two days with the plow is sufficient for a hectare of land (2. 471 acres). Where the plow can not touch on account of the trees, a hoe is used. As there are about 120 trees in a hectare of land 10 men at least are needed for such work, at 2 francs (38 cents) per day. Now as to manuring groves. The trees should be mulched once in every three years. Experience has taught that the best way was to manure one-third of the orchard this year, one- third next year, and so on. The compost for a tree which yields, say, 10 liters of oil (about 2§ gallons) costs about 67 cents; at this rate the manure for an orchard of 120 trees will cost a fraction over $80. Con- sider then a workman's labor at mulching, 20 days, at 38 cents per day ; clearing weeds 8 days at same wages, then pruning, plowing, etc., and you have incurred an average expense on each tree of 80 cents. In fine, you realize about $190 from a hectare of olive trees, and it costs you one- half that sum to care for the land. From the other half you must pay Government, provincial, and communal taxes, which are no small items. Rain- fall. — The result of meteorological observations for the last ten years in the province of Genoa shows that about 48 inches of water had fallen each year (almost incredible, but substantially vouched for). It was much less on the oriental coast, and fully one- third less on the western coast. EXPORTS AND IMPORTS OF OLIVE OIL. Strange as the item may appear, it will be seen in the table that 28,358 kilograms otpure olive oil was imported into Genoa from the United States and Canada during the year 1883 : THE OLIVE IN LUCCA. 669 EXPORTS OP OLIVE OIL. [All measurement in kilograms, according to the rule of Italy. One hundred kilograms equal to 220 pounds.] Kilograms. United States and Canada 104,045 La Plata States 757', 026 Chili and Peru 15,022 Other American ports 2.049,781 Austria 79,764 France 363,247 Germany 27,085 England 121,497 Holland _ 38,180 Kussia 1,610 Spain and Portugal 4,195 Turkey 8,169 Tripoli and other African ports 275 Total % 3,387,896 IMPORTS OP OLIVE OIL. Kilograms. United States and Canada 28,358 Austria 152,872 Tripoli and other African ports '. 1,832,201 Total 2,013,431 Total exports over imports 1,374,465 JAMES FLETCHER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Genoa, May 1, 1884. LUCCA. REPORT BY CONSUL RICE, OF FLORENCE. The variety best adapted for pickling is the Trantojo olive, also called " National " or " Gentile," and is also good for extracting oil. The " Mora- jolo," " Gremignolo," and " Leecino" produce the purest oil. The trees which produce the above varieties are grown on hilly ground, where the tree is planted, about 3 miles from the sea, and at an elevation above sea level of 650 to 2,300 feet, and in certain locali- ties at even a higher elevation. The most favorable situation is facing south, and the soil best adapted is rocky and sandy. Severe cold spoils the tree and the olive. When the tree is from three to four years old it is transplanted, always in the summer, and if found necessary watered. The cultiva- tion takes place in autumn, for the manure, and in the spring for the working of the soil. The pruning takes place in autumn. G70 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The olive is generally picked from October to May, lut this must de- pend 011 the climate. The olives are picked in two ways, viz: (1) In October, when the olive is green and not too oily, it is put under lime and ashes mixed with water, and washed afterwards in pure water ; it is then put in other pure water, adding 17.10 pounds of salt for every 220.11 pounds of olives ; (2) in February, when the olive is oily, it is picked by hand and placed for forty days in pure water and kept in it, until the nut leaves the fruit by squeezing it — then continued as above. As to the process of making oil it is as follows : The fruit as soon as gathered is* brought to the store-rooms attached to the olive -mill, and there spread out until it can be crushed in a thin layer to avoid overheating. The ripe olives have a lustrous purple- black color. In making the finest oil any damaged fruit is put aside. The mill consists of a large mill-stone revolving in a trough built of stone. It is driven by water-power if available, or else by animal power, generally oxen. The olives are placed in the mill and quickly crushed to a pasty mass, including the stones. The pulp is next transferred to fiber-bags, and these placed in a screw or hydraulic press ; on pressure being applied, the oil flows forth, and is collected in a suitable receptacle. In order to disengage all the oleaginous particles, water is poured over the bags. In making the finest oil it is essential to use only cold water, which must also be pure and uucontaminated. Hot water, though more efficacious, would deprive the oil of all its delicacy. The first pressing of sound fruit yields the finest quality of olive oil. Newly made oil is allowed to rest a while in tanks, so that some of the solid matter from the fruit, which is held in suspension, may have time to deposit. It is afterward clarified by passing it through pure carded cotton. It is then fit for the market. The pulp from which the first oil has been expressed is again placed in the mill and the same process repeated a second time, hot water being used instead of cold. A second-rate quality of oil is thus obtained, which is kept separate at those olive-mills where the finest oils are pro- duced. Even then the pulp is not done with. It is crushed again in another mill with the addition of water, then passed into a circular tank, where agitators separate the residuum of pulp from thetremain- ing small parts of the olive kernels. The latter is removed and used for fuel. The pulpy residual is again subjected to pressure and some oil ob- tained of very inferior quality. The water which has been used in the agitator flows down and passes through settling tanks where some little oil comes to the surface and is collected. The trees commenced bearing fruit when about ten years old. Ac- cording to plants, soil, cultivation, and climate, the yield may give from 220 to 330 pounds of olives. THE nLlVK IN MESSINA. 671 The trees are- planted at a distance of 10 to 11 yards from one to Jin- other. Trees are propagated either by seedlings or cuttings. The latter are taken from trees which have been cut or blown down, and from the roots where suckers would develop. The seedlings revert to the wild species of olive tree, and hence must be grafted ; this is generally done when the tree is from six to eight years old. A fly termed u Musca oleae " is one of the greatest enemies of the olive-tree farmer. This insect is about half the size of the common fly; its head is of orange color, green eyes, body and wings variegated. The female deposits its eggs in the olive berries ; they develop into small white maggots, which destroy most of the pulp of the fruit. In the cavity so formed water penetrates, causing rottenness. Oil made from such fruit is thick and nauseous to the taste. This fly makes its appearance in Tuscany in September. The ravages it causes are aunost incredible. There is tio possible treatment. WILLIAM T. RICE, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Florence, May 23, 1890. MESSINA. REPORT BY CONSUL JONES. Varieties. — The best variety for pickled olives is the Ogliaio; best varieties for olive-oil : The Ogliaio, Caloria, and Calabrese. Nine-tenths of the olive-trees in this province are of the Ogliaio variety ; the Biancolilla and Nasitana varieties are prolific bearers. Tree planting. — The Calabrese must be planted considerably above the level of the sea; it thrives 4 miles inland. The other varieties above named do well on the coast and as far as 2J miles from the sea. The elevation above the sea-level depends upon the exposure, variety, soil. With a southern exposure the Ogliaio thrives at an elevation of 1,200 feet; the Caloria at 1,500 feet; the Nasitana at from 1,500 to 1,800 feet, and the Calabrese at a still greater elevation. When the olive is grown by the sea-shore a western exposure is the best. A southern exposure is required when the olive is grown at an elevation»exceeding 1,000 feet. Olives grown on hilly land yield the most oil and the best quality of oil. The crops on level land are much lighter and are of inferior quality. Level land produces the best olives for drying purposes. Soil, etc. — The olive prefers a friable, porous soil. Water should not be allowed to stagnate around the trees. The olive rarely attains its full growth on level clay land owing to the humidity retained by such land. In winter clay soils run together; in summer, in cracking open, 672 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. they break the roots and seriously injure the trees. A very dry soil is also to be avoided. In the soil best adapted to the olive alkalies, chalk, and phosphates predominate. The calcareo- argillaceous, product of the tertiary calcareous rocks, is the soil of soils for the olive. Climatic influences. — A moderately moist subsoil suits the olive best. The olive prefers a temperate, dry, and equable climate. It does badly in hot climates, in which a southern exposure should be avoided by all means. The temperature from 34° to 95° Fahr. suits the olive : mean temperature, 68° Fahr. Rain-fall. — In this olive zone the annual rain-fall never exceeds 23 inches. The rains are at irregular intervals; a drought of several months being followed by torrents of rain, greatly to the detriment of the crops. Bain is beneficial to both trees and fruit, except when the trees are in bloom. It is invaluable in August, as it swells the fruit and thus increases the yield of oil. Irrigation. — The olive does not require irrigation. When grown with the orange and lemon (which are irrigated) the olive produces heavy crops, but this fruit is good neither for pickling nor for oil ; moreover, trees subject to irrigation grow old prematurely. . In the neighborhood of Milazzo it is customary to water the trees at the time of transplanting, 4 gallons to the tree. This is the only irri- gation of the olive in practice in this province. Cultivation. — The olive is worked three times a year. In October, after the first autumnal rains, when the earth from around the tree is thrown to a distance equal to the length of its branches and made into a low circular mound, thus forming a clean bed for the olives to fall on when the branches are shaken. This embankment also retains the rain- water around the trees. In March and April this mound is broken up and the earth is piled in two smaller circles, thus offering as great a surface of the earth as pos- sible to the action of the air. About the end of May this earth is leveled. As a rule the olive is not manured. There are growers, however, who enrich their trees every two years. They run a trench half way round the tree 5 or 6 feet from the trunk, fill it with manure one year, and com- plete the circle, manuring the other half of the tree the next year. Others open a trench near the tree on the side of the prevailing wind and fill it with manure to strengthen its roots on that side. Near Milazzo the trees are manured every other year by turning under lupins and beans. Pruning. — Olive trees are pruned and suckers removed every two years, from December to February. The head of the tree should be cut back so as to admit of air and light. Pickling and Curing. — Olives for pickling are gathered green in Octo- ber and November. When destined for the oil press olives are left to THE OLIVE IN MESSINA. 673 on the trees and are gathered as they fall. Olives are gathered l>y hand or knocked down with long poles. The young twigs are bruised and broken by the poles, which shortens the next year's crop; but, as gathering by hand is much slower, poles are generally pre- ferred. Olives for pickling are dried in the shade for a day or two, then soaked in water from two to four days and pickled. Olives for the press are left for a few days in the baskets in which they are carried home ; they are then thrown into vats and allowed to ferment; this fermentation diminishes the yield of oil and is detri- mental to its quality. The process for pickling olives is as follows : Dissolve in water a sufficient amount of rock-salt to float an egg or a potato. Put the olives in this brine and cover them with fresh olive twigs with their leaves on, wild fennel, bell peppers, and garlic. To make oil: The olives having become soft, macerated, during their fermentation in the vats, are run through (i. e., crushed) a mill with horizontal rollers. The pulp is then put into large, round wicker bags, made of bulrushes, and pressed. " Sansino," or oil from the husks, is obtained by pouring boiling water on the olive husks and pressing them a second time. Tin dippers are used to transfer the oil from the press to wooden tubs, in which it is carried to the warehouse. The oil is then poured into large earthen- ware jars and left to settle before being put on the market. Maturity. — At ten years of age the olive comes into bearing and con- tinues bearing for centuries. Yield. — Olive trees in full bearing yield from 1 to 2 gallons of oil per tree — 78 to 156 gallons per acre. Planting and propagating. — The large olives, Ogliaio and Calabrese, are planted from 36 to 39 feet apart; the dwarf olives, Biancolilla, from 15 to 24 feet apart. Trees are propagated by seed ; eyes (excres- cences that grow on the foot of the trunk and roots of the olive — best method); suckers; cuttings; and budding. Insect pests. — The olive tree and the olive have a number of insect pests. The lepidoptera, in a chrysalis state, cut into the large branches ; the Tlesino oleiperda, and the Phlocotribus olece eat into the twigs ; small butterflies feed upon the leaves. A little hemipter, called ouphyllura olece, attacks the bloom of the olive tree and covers it over with a cot- touoqs substance that smothers it. The fly, Dacus olece, lays its egg in the pulp of the olive, which egg produces a worm that feeds upon the pulp. This prolific fly is a terrible scourge. Olives attacked by the fly .yield but little oil of inferior quality. The beneficial insects are the parasites of the olive fly. There are little hymenoptera that feed on the larva of the dacus. WALLACE S. JONES, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Messina, January 27, 1890. 674 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. NAPLES. REPORT BY OONSVL CAMPHAUSEN. Varieties. — The name of best variety for pickled olives is the Audria or Gaeta olives, and for oil the Eifcordella. The other choice varieties for pickles (eating) and oil, worthy of culture and for profit, are the Corregiole and Punzione (for oil), also Morrajole audRazze; butthe Eino- paca olive is cultivated in preference in the province of Naples. The trees are grown in the provinces of Bari, Salerno, and Naples, and are distant from the sea 1,500 feet, and from 90 feet above sea-level to the tops of the hills, with southern exposure. The trees grow on hilly, rolling, or level land, but hilly is the best, with fresh, rich soil without clay. Climatic influences. — The same as stated in answer to question No. 5, under the head of lemons, oranges, and figs. Irrigation is not practiced. Cultivation. — Every year by working the soil and using barn-yard manures and refuse collected in the streets of the cities. Pruning. — During the usual time, as in other countries, and by re- moving the suckers whenever necessary. Picking and curing. — From November to February. They are picked by hand or beaten down. The middle of October is the time to gather those for pickling or eating. The fruit for oil is collected at any time after November. After picking, the fruit is mashed into a paste and pressed under a hydraulic press and the oil extracted. The pickling is done in the simplest and usual way, similar to pickling cucumbers, etc., in the United States. Before they are put in brine the olives are soaked for a day or two in a weak solution of potash and then for a couple of hours in fresh water. Maturity. — The trees mature at the age of five years. Yield. — Trees average 20 quarts of oil or 45 pounds of fruit per year. Planting and propagating.— Trees are planted from 35 to 40 feet apart, and propagated by seed, sprout, or graft. Publications. — I have no knowledge of any statistics issued by the Italian Government on this subject. The best information on this sub- ject is to be obtained from or through the United States legatioto, or the United States consulate-general at Eome. Publications, scienttfic re- ports, etc., on this matter are published in the different cities of Italy, and articles are quite frequently found in the daily papers. Insect pests. — The kermes injures the tree, and is destroyed by cutting of the bark where it nestles, saturating the place with a solution of lime. When the oil-fly makes its appearance the olives are gathered with the utmost diligence and made into oil to prevent the propagation of the insect. EDWARD CAMPHAFSEN, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Consul. Naples, January 31, 1890. TIN-: Caltabellotteae 17 187 3 Biancbetta . 15 625 4 15 625 5 Zeba or Zaituni . . 15 625 6 Cerasola 14 345 The names of other* choice varieties for pickles (eating) and oil, worthy of culture and for profit, are Caltabellottese, Bianchetta, Zeba or Zaituui, and Cerasola. The trees which produce the above oils are grown in Sicily and most parts of Italy. There is no stipulated distance from the sea. The olive-tree grows either on the coast or inland, but groves adjacent to the sea or large bodies of water are more productive than those situated inland, the olives yielding more oil. The reason assigned for this is the influence of large bodies of water in modifying the extremes of temperature. The limit of cultivation in the province of Palermo is stated at 827 meters (about 2,690 feet) above sea-level. As the trees suffer from ex- tremes of temperature and from lack of moisture in either soil or air, the success of cultivation at various altitudes, depends largely on nature of soil, exposure to the sun, and distance from the sea. Sunlight. — The position of an olive grove in relation to the sun ap- pears to be of great importance. In an eastern exposure the diurnal changes from cold to warm, and vice versa, are very rapid, while with a southern, and still more with a western and northern exposure, the di- rect solar rays are preceded, in the morning, by the gradual diffusion of the sun's warmth, and in the evening the change to the cold of the night is similarly graduated. From this it appears that in the northern limits of the growth of the olive the most unfavorable position is an eastern exposure, experiments proving that in seasons of extreme cold, the first trees to perish are those most fully exposed to the east. In the southern limit of growth, however, the eastern, western, or northern exposures are more favorable than the southern, since, in the latter case, the trees suffer from the extreme heat. In the intermediate and more temperate zones exposures to the southeast or southwest seem to be preferable. Aside from solar exposure it is important to choose a position sheltered from violent winds. In some parts of this island the 6? 6 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. strong sea winds, charged with salt, are found to be very injurious, while in other parts with different exposure the wind most dreaded is the hot dry sirocco, blowing from the southeast. Soil, etc. — Latitude appears to govern the character of the ground. For instance, in latitude 30° an inclination of 30° would be indicated in the land. Open, rolling ground seems preferable as allowing a free subterranean circulation and the escape of excessive moisture. It is not true, as sometimes asserted, that the olive prefers the poorest soil. Where the earth is too sandy, and, in some conditions, where too hard, the trees suffer from lack of moisture, they grow slowly and with difficulty, and in elevated positions, in the absence of profuse rains and perennial moisture, the foliage is scanty, fruit ripens too rapidly, without full development, much of it withering half formed. The most favorable is a loose mellow soil of moderate humidity. An open subsoil is preferable to clay, as the latter in winter seasons is apt to retain too much moisture and unduly chill the trees at the time when vegetable life is most feeble. Temperature. — It is difficult to state the exact limits of temperature within which the olive will grow and flourish, as so many other condi- tions enter into the question, but a uniform temperate climate seems to be absolutely essential to its well being. In favorable localities the tree commences to vegetate in March, when the mean temperature of the air has reached 10.50° to 11° centigrade (50.9° to 51.8° Fahren- heit). The fruit buds commence to form, generally, in April, at a tem- perature of 15° centigrade (59° Fahrenheit). The tree blooms in May, when the mean temperature has attained 18° or 19° centigrade (64.4° to 66.2° Fahrenheit). In the beginning of June the fruit commences to form, under the influence of a mean temperature of 21° to 22° centi- grade (69.8° to 71.6° Fahrenheit). The fruit attains its growth early in July and reaches maturity in October. The mean temperature in Palermo (a locality favorable to the olive), as recorded for the nine years from 1866 to 1874 inclusive, was 18° cen- tigrade (64.4° Fahrenheit). The nraxirnum temperature during that time being 40.4° centigrade (104.72° Fahrenheit) and the minimum 2° centigrade (28.4° Fahrenheit). The lowest winter temperature which the olive tree can supnort is 7° to 8° centigrade 17.6° to (19.4° Fahrenheit), and this not prolonged beyond eight or ten days. In various parts of Italy where, during occasional hard winters, the mercury has fallen below this point, for two or three days only, the mor- tality among olive trees has been very great. There seems to be no regular method of irrigation in existence here, no governmental supervision, and no co-operation of different proprietors obtaining, Each grower seeks, apparently, to utilize to the best advan- tage the rain-fall on his own property. Where this is scanty it is some- times supplemented by the sinking of wells from which the water is TFIK OLIVE IN PALERMO. 677 pumped by hand or animal power. This is, however, an insignificant item. The general method of irrigation seems to be to dig ditches close to and parallel with the lines of trees and connect these with cross canals in such a manner that the drainage of the land can be held in the ditches to be used when needed, or conveyed away in case of superabundance. In the case of terraced hills or undulatory land the intervening basins are often necessary to an intelligent control of the rain-fall. These basins, as well as the main aqueducts are, in this country, built of stone or cement, and in this equable climate endure for centuries. As the olive suffers from too much moisture to as great an extent as from too little, careful cultivators protect the roots of their trees in the au- tumn from an excess of the cold rains of winter with as much care as they take to provide them with water during the dry months of summer. Cultivation. — After an olive grove is fairly started the annual labor involved in its cultivation is as follows: In autumn, in those tocalities where severe cold is apprehended, the earth is built up and solidly packed around the trees to prevent a too ready access of the chilling waters of winter to the roots. When no frosts are feared and the season is dry, the soil on the contrary is loos- ened about the roots to facilitate the entry of moisture. In winter or early spring the earth is turned up as deeply as possible, in this country, with the spade. In summer a superficial digging takes place to destroy the weeds. In September the ditches and reservoirs are cleaned and opened to allow the winter rains to pass out. The deep digging at the end of winter is to facilitate the absorption of the spring rains to as great a depth as possible. The superficial summer digging, besides destroying the weeds, breaks the continuity of the soil, the loose upper stratum acting as a blanket preventing the dispersion and evaporation of moisture from the lower depths. In addition to this is the fertilization of trees in old and exhausted ground. Pruning. — The olive, like the peach, bears fruit on the second year's growth ; that is to say, the growth of one year bears the fruit of the next. The branches extend themselves from year to year, but the part thereof which has once borne fruit, never blooms again. In the absence of pruning these branches grow in length from year to year until they finally cease 5 the shooting out of collateral branches is very slow and the fruitage of the tree insignificant. By improper or irregular pruning the fruitage of a tree may be seriously diminished or even temporarily destroyed. By pruning the form and extent of the tree are controlled. To constitute a healthy tree, the amount of upper growth should be proportioned to the development of the roots and will constantly vary with the age and vigor of each individual tree. Olive trees should be pruned annually, in the spring. The most desirable form is the reversed cone, the branches spreading more and more as the top is approached. 678 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. This is thought to produce the most uniform exposure to air and sun. The trees should not be allowed to grow too high, the trunk from the ground to the lower branches not to exceed 1 J to 2 meters (about 4J to 6£ feet). When the young tree is sufficiently branched and has reached a height of about 1J meters (or 4^ feet) the top is cut off immediately above a vigorous embranchment. In the following spring the principal branches are pruned, being left shortest at the bottom and longer as the top is approached, and so on from year to year, preserving to the tree a symmetry of form and uniformity of density as far as possible. When the fruiting age is reached the skillful primer will form such a relation between the general growth of wood and the fruit-bearing branches, from year to year, as will best subserve the health and vigor of the tree. In addition to this pruning there should be an annual cutting away of all decayed and unhealthy branches. Picking. — All the olives on a tree do not mature at the same time and two pickings are generally made. In the first are taken the southern side of the trees and those trees situated on high ground, as these ripen first. The method is to pick by hand those within reach, then gently shake the branches until the balance drop to the ground. In large groves the wind is largely relied on to assist in the labor. It is esti- mated that to pick an ettolitro (or about 2f Winchester bushels) of olives from the tree by hand requires a man's labor for eight hours, while the same amount can be picked from the ground in one and one-half hours. Pickling. — Olives for pickling or preserving in any manner for table use are picked green ; for oil, when fully ripe. It seems to be the opinion here that olives increase in amount of oil produced if left on the tree some weeks after fully ripe, but the quality of the oil deterio- rates. Manufacture of oil. — To make good oil the olives should first be thor- oughly cleansed of all earth and leaves. If washing is necessary to effect this, they must then be carefully dried, after which they should be conveyed at once to the mill ; but, if this is impracticable, they may be spread out 4 or 5 inches deep in a dry, airy place, care being taken to turn them over thoroughly every three or four days to prevent fermentation. If the olives are allowed to ferment the quality of the oil is effected injuriously both in color and taste. There ai*e several varieties of machines for crushing the olives. Extensive producers have at least one grooved mill which crushes the olives but leaves the pips or stones intact. The oil from the latter, although amounting to 7 or 8 per cent, of the whole, is of an inferior quality, and its admixture detracts from the brightness and excellence of the first pressing. The olives, reduced to paste, are put in sacks made of a species of rush or reed (Juncus acutus), of strips of bark, or of hemp and placed under the press (worked by screw or lever), when the first extraction of oil is made. This is the " virgin oil," absolutely pure and highest in value. THE OLIVE IN PALERMO. 679 To the paste or mash from which the virgin oil has been extracted, the pips, previously removed, are added, boiling water is poured on pressure again applied, and another and inferior grade of oil expressed. The operation repeated a third time produces a still more inferior grade of oil, used mostly in the arts. In all these operations absolute cleanliness is indispensable ; mills, presses, and utensils should be frequently washed in a solution of lye, as the slightest contact with rancid matter will impart a disagreeable odor to the oil. In some districts the crushing-mill is dispensed with, the only ma- chinery used being a small screw-press. In such case the sack of olives is placed on the bed of the press, trampled down by men, and then the pressure applied, and the so called "virgin oil " produced. The tramp- ling is repeated, water added, and pressure renewed, and so on, repeat- ing all the operations until nothing remains but the shells of the pips and the dry pulp of the olives. The oil obtained by this method is more dense and mucilaginous than the other. Leaving the press the oil is poured into glazed earthenware jars, well washed with cold water (to which is added a little vinegar) and wiped dry with clean cloths. The best form for these jars is that of a frustrum of a cone reversed. In some cases vessels hollowed out of calcareous stone are used, after be- ing thoroughly cleansed with lime water. These jars or vessels are placed in dry cellars, cool in summer and'sufficieutly warm in winter to' prevent congelation of the oil, as this impedes the deposition of the lees (morchia). The winter temperature of these cellars should be from 15° to 18° centigrade (59° to 64.4° Fahrenheit). In June the oil should be clear,- and can be poured off into other vessels. This first pouring off is the " superfine oil " (olio sopraffino). From what remains in the jars a second pouring off or decanting takes place a month later, and this produces the "fine oil" (olio fino), and in August still another decanting from the bottom brings forth the third grade, called "fat oil" (olio grasso), used in manufactures. The purification of the oil and deposition of the lees, or morchia, may be accelerated by washing or rinsing with pure water or a solution of alum. The color of the oil may be bleached, or clarified, by a solution of sulphuric acid and water, in the proportion of 20 to 24 parts of water to 1 of acid. There should be a quarter of an ounce of acid to each pound of oil. The mixture must be placed in a vessel and agitated until it becomes milky, the agitation repeated several times during the first twenty -four hours, and then left quiet for eight days to settle. The oil may then be decanted, and will be found extremely clear and limpid. This process also destroys any bad odors that may linger about the oil, though for this purpose vinegar or alcohol seems better. Preparinfj for market. — For pickling the largest and most fleshy olives aie sel«M't(Ml. They should be immersed in pure water for five or six 15GA 19 680 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. days, the water being changed four or five times per day, and when they have lost all bitterness placed in a vessel (earthen jars are used here) filled with brine, care being taken that they are immersed, alter which they are ready for use in sixty days, and will keep for a year or more. Another method consists in steeping the olives in lye until the pulp is penetrated 5 then, having ascertained by taste that they have lost their bitterness, they are immersed in water, as before, renewed two or three times per day for four or five days, or until all disagreeable flavor has disappeared. This done, they are immersed in brine, to which may be added, according to taste, some odoriferous herb, as fennel. Cloves and cinnamon are also used. Maturity. — The trees commence fruiting at from six to eight years of age. Yield. — From experiments made in Sicily it has been ascertained that a mature tree yields 8.50 kilograms, and a hectare (about 2J acres) of land, in perfect condition, 850 kilograms of oil per annum, from which it has been concluded that an olive grove in Sicily of the extent of 1 hectare will, as a rule produce an average quantity of oil of from 642 to 734 kilograms per annum. Planting and propagating. — This depends on the soil and its forma- tion. In Sicily they are planted from 20 to 40 feet apart, the closest being on side hills and poor !and, and the farthest apart in rich val- leys. From seed and by grafting. Trees dying, renew themselves from the root. Successful cultivation. — The importance of avoiding all exposed locali- ties in planting olive groves is enjoined upon them. As, for instance, when the trees would be exposed to the cold winds from snow-covered mountains, the hot dry blasts from the deserts of Arizona or New Mexico and strong sea winds laden with salt. It would also be wise to plant different varieties of trees until those best suited to special locali- ties can be ascertained. Ko doubt is entertained that in the sheltered valleys of California, as well as on the favorably exposed foot-hills and along the southern coast thereof, the olive would do well and prove a profitable source of revenue. I Insect pests. — These are very numerous, and commit great havoc. As there is a whole library of books on the subject, it is impossible in a report of this kind to give any summary that would be of value. PHILIP CARROLL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Palermo, March 7, 1890. THE OLIVE IN SICILY. 681 SICILY. REPORT BY CONSUL LAMANTIA, OF CATANIA.. THE OLIVE IN ANCIENT AND MODERN TIMES. It is said that Asia is the olive's native place, and that Cecrope brought it to Athens and the Phocesis to Marseilles (600 years B. 0.). The olive plant is known from past centuries, and a proof thereof is that we find it mentioned in the Genesis, Homer, and in Hesiod. The legend of the pigeon having returned on the Noah's ark with a small olive branch as a sign of peace is well known. It would, therefore, seem that the olive tree vegetated on the land, even before the universal deluge. The ancients paid to the olive great honors, and, as a mark of admiration, they believed that the plant had risen through Minerva's action. Con- sequently, they consecrated it to that deity, and Columella declared it " The first tree of all trees " — olea prima omnium arborum est. In Asia nature disseminated the first olive shoot, which afterwards is seen cul- tivated all over Asia Minor, Phoenicia, Palestine, and Syria. The an- cient Hebrews, Etrurians, Greeks, and Romans paid the olive tree divine honors. The olive tree likes the sea, the calcareous soil, the mounts and roll- ing hills, as well as the lake borders and river shores. That is because it was diffusely grown all along the coast of Asia Minor, Phoenicia, and Palestine, as it is now seen in Greece, not in the interior, but all along the Ionic Islands and Archipelago, Cyclades and Sporandes, still in a wild growing state. In what epoch the Greeks did really extract the oil from the fruit and use ifc for illuminating and condiment, as it is done now, it is im- possible to learn, for want of historical records. But one thing is cer- tain, however, that the primitive extraction of oil and its use is lost in the obscurity of night. When, between the seventh and eighth cen- turies, or eight hundred years (B. C.), the Greek colonies extended them- selves towards the northern coast, they probably, with their industry and commerce, imported also the olive culture. In the sixth century (B. C.) the olive tree was cultivated in southern Italy, in Sardinia, and in Sicily. The Romans knew the olive later than the Greeks. A century previous to that, we learn from Pliuv, no olives existed then in Rome, but that they did exist all along the Adriatic coast, cultivated by Greeks. Gradually, later on, the olives were introduced into central and southern Italy, hence into this island of Sicily. The olive tree is now cultivated in southern Europe, as in Spain, Portugal, and France, Austria-Hungary, Provence, Italy, Greece, and Turkey in Europe. Italy is, however, a region of the few most privileged ones by nature, 682 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. wherein the plant can easily vegetate and produce profitably. In fact, out of the 69 Italian provinces only in 19 of them the olive plant is not cultivated. The production, as considered in regard to land occupied by the olive culture, is more profitable in Sicily, and precisely in the provinces of Palermo, Trapani, and Caltanissetta. As reported by the ministro di agricoltura in 1874, it seems that the present olive culti- vated land in Italy (together with other plants) occupies an extension of 900,311 hectares, yielding an average of 3,385,591 hectoliters of oil, or 3.76 hectoliters per hectare. The annual exportation from Italy is 635,000 quintals, equal to 63,500 tons, and the best and finest oil is made at Pisa and Lucca, and mostly in the whole region of Tuscany, on account of good picking and curing the olives and extracting and refining the oil. The following table shows the olive cultivated land and the total production of oil in Italy : Regions. Superfice olive culti- vated land. Total oil production. Hectares. Hectoliters. 4,591 6,318 3,536 9 321 84, 931 343, 264 Emilia 4 694 14 757 76, 271 195,659 119 278 285 006 41, 667 95, 834 South Adriatic 270, 090 857, 649 139, 288 636, 540 Sicily 104, 373 730, 238 51, 582 211, 005 Total . 900 311 3 385 591 General average, 3.76 hectoliters per hectare. After Italy the most oil-producing country is Spain ; next comes France, Algeria included, and Austria-Hungary. In Greece and Turkey the olive tree is also extensively cultivated, but the oil is mostly fit and used for soap-making. In no other country of Europe does the oil equal the Italian made in quality. As shown in the table, the extension of olive cultivated land in Sicily is 104,373 hectares, with an average production of 730,238 hectoliters oil a year, and at rate of nearly 7 hectoliters per hectare. The oil, how- ever, it is proper to say, is generally too rich and strong, on account of the poor system of picking the fruit and not refining the oil. The finest oil in this island is made in Termini-Iinerese, 24 miles from the city of Palermo, by using the same system of Tuscany. I now proceed with the practical one, by answering categorically the circular. QUESTIONS ABOUT OLIVES. Varieties. — The name of best varieties for pickling in this consular district is the Marmorigna of Catania, an egg-shaped olive, with small stone and much pulp, giving a good oil. THE OLIVE IN SICILY. 683 The names of best varieties for oil are: La Biancolilla (little white), , an oblong white, yellowish olive, even when it is ripe, yielding a very fine oil; La Calabrese, a small olive, but very productive, yielding excellent oil ; La Ogliara, of medium size, giving an ordinary quality of oil ; La Cerasola or Prunara, a precocious and pulpy olive, yielding plenty oil, but very rich ; it is used for eating. La Raitana, a very late fruit, of ordinary quality of oil ; and La Galtabellottese, an oblong black olive when ripe, giving rather a rich oil. The names of other varieties worthy of culture and for profit are the following : La Mortillara, Giarraffa, Patornesc, Mesxinese, Nasitana, Pizzutella, Piricuddara, Saracena, Siragusana, and San Francescana. Situation. — The said varieties are grown in Sicily in the provinces of Palermo. Trapani, Caltanissetta, Catania, and Messina, at the distance of from 100 to 300 meters from the sea, and at an altitude of 300 to 800 meters above the sea-level, exposed to sun and planted on hilly, roll- ing land, for it is the best, and on flinty, calcareous, argillaceous soil. Climate. — The climatic temperature is: minimum 5° centigrade in January, maximum 35° in August, and 17° average in May. The average rain-fall in Sicily is considered to be from 25 to 30 inches in the year. More than that rain would help the culture greatly. Irrigation. — There is no regular method of irrigating olive trees, and a good crop of fruit depends entirely upon favorable weather and rain- fall in the proper season. Cultivation. — The earth about must be regularly dug at least twice a year; that is, in the month of June and August, and manured at the end of the winter. Pruning. — Pruning is to be done regularly after the fruit has been gathered. Picking. — The olives'for making oil are to be picked when turning to the dark violet color, for then the pulp is easily detached from the stone. When so picked they give the following favorable result, viz: Palp 51.26 Water 14.38 Stone 20.16 Residue 8. 38 v Oil of the curl 0. 06 The following system maybe established as the proper time for pick- ing the fruit : (1) Olives gathered before full maturity give very fine, but very little, oil. . (2) Olives gathered at full maturity yield the most quantity of oil and of a good quality. (3) Olives gathered late produce oil of a poor quality. Pickling. — The olives for pickling must be picked when full grown, but in green color. After so picked they are prepared for making oil and for pickling. 684 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The process of pickling green colored olives in Sicily is very simply done, viz, by putting them in salt water, made out of one pound of sea- salt to every gallon of fresh water, stored in barrels, casks, or any other receptacle, and let them remain there until eaten. In that manner they are shipped and kept for home trade. As to the process of making oil. it is impossible for me to describe it minutely. Maturity.— Trees commence fruiting at the age of eight years. Yield. — The average yield from J to 4 hectoliters of fruit. Planting and propagating. — The distance apart is from 16, 22, and 32 feet, and propagated by several methods. VINCENT LAMANTIA, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Catania^ January 21, 1890. SICILY. REPORT BY CONSUL WOODCOCK, OF CATANIA. [ Republished from Consular Reports No. 41$. 1 At least ten varieties of the olives of the present age were known and cultivated by the ancient Eomans. There are the Pausio, Algiano, Licinio, Sergio, Culminio, Orchide, Eegio, Cereifce, Nevio, and Mirteo. Of these the best for yielding oil are the Licinio and the Sergio. The fruit of the Pausio, Eegio, and Orchide is of fine flavor, and excellent for eating as condiment, and yields a good quality of oil. In this part of Italy , especially in the neighborhood of Syracuse, there are probably greater varieties of the olive than were known to the old Eomans. Among these may be mentioned the Ptesano (native), by some called the African ; the Oglialoro, which produces a smaller fruit than the Psesano, but it is rich in oil; the Biancolino (white), of which the pulp of the fruit is white ; the Pizzuto (pointed), the fruit being some- what pointed in shape; the Prunaro (plum), the fruit being roundish in form ; the Dattio (date), of which the fruit is elongated and oval |n fo»m ; and the Ferlese, the fruit of which yields a finely-flavored oil, and is ex- cellent for comfits. The varieties that are preferred for the utility of their product and durability of the trees are the African and Oglialoro. These trees are possessed of great longevity, living to be three and four hundred years old, and continuing to be green, healthy, and productive. The other varieties do not attain so great an age, especially the Ferlese and Bian- colino. A stony or calcareous soil is best for the olive. It must not be planted in damp or clayey ground. Irrigation is not necessary ; in fact, it is THK OLIVF. IN SICILY. 685 injurious to the tree. The trees require a loose, dry soil. A hill side is suit'able, provided there is no danger of denudation by water and the soil is supported about the trees by terraces. The usual method of propagation is to sow the seed, plant suckers, or off-shoots that spring up from the roots of the parent trees, or by grafting the best varieties upon the wild-olive stock. An olive orchard may be commenced from cuttings in the following manner : Prepare the ground by spading to the depth of 3 feet and surround the same by a deep trench. Let the soil thus prepared re- main for a time exposed to the sun. Take young vigorous branches two or three inches in diameter from the kind of tree preferred; cut the same into lengths of about one and a half feet, being careful not to in- jure the bark. Smear each end of the cutting with stable manure, coat- ing the same with ashes. Then plant the cuttings upright in the soil so that the upper end will be a couple of inches beneath the surface. Care must be taken to j^lant the cutting the right end up, as upon the tree; otherwise it will not take root. Many prefer to grow the wild olive from the seed, and when grown to the proper size, graft upon its stock the best varieties. Whichever method is resorted to, the time for planting must be in the latter part of the spring equinox. The first year after planting, the ground should be frequently hoed; and in the second and subsequent years the rake must be used, that the young roots may acquire strength and vigor in a mellow soil. For the first two years the young plant must not be pruned. The third year it should be pruned, leaving but two branches thereon. During all this time the ground should be hoed and raked frequently. In the fourth year the weaker of the two branches must be removed. After cultivat- ing thus for five years the plants are ready for transplanting to the orchard. In transplanting to the orchard, a distance of sixty or more feet must be maintained between the trees, where the soil is rich. In poor soil the distance should be thirty or more feet apart. A year before transplanting to the orchard, the holes for the trees should be dug to the depth of 4 feet. This should be done that the soil of the holes may become fertilized by the rays of the sun. If the trees are to be transplanted in autumn the ground must be dry : if in spring the soil should be fresh and the trees moved before they commence to bud. Prior to planting it is well to mark the position of the plants as to the points of compass, and give them the same position in the orchard. The young orchard (thus commenced) must be plowed and hoed at least twice a year. After the solstice, when the earth erodes by the heat, care must be taken that the roots of the young trees do not become exposed to the sun. After the autumnal equinox equal care must be had (especially if the orchard be upon a hill-side) that the rains do not denude the roots. Each year the shoots that put forth from the stein 686 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. must be removed. Every third year the ground about the trees should be manured, the amount to be determined by the condition of the soil. It is often the case that even in dry situations a moss gathers upon the trees. When this occurs the moss must be removed by scraping. Dregs of the oil should be smeared upon the trunks of the less vigorous trees. This will destroy the insects that infest the bark and thus injure the trees. After the lapse of eight years the trees must be thoroughly pruned ; cutting away all sprouts, and such branches as obstruct the air and sunlight ; but no large branch should be cut near the body of the tree ; and the lower branches should be spared, because being more exposed to the warmth they are the most productive. At eight years old the olive is but a mere infant tree. At fifteen years of age it bears but little fruit. When thirty-five or forty years old it begins to bear abundantly, but then only every other year. Every alternate year there is generally a poor crop. At this age a hectare (^rfoo acres) of trees in the fruitful year generally yields from 3 to 4 quintals metrique (660 to 668 pounds) of olives,, or about 240 or 320 kilo- grams (530 to 705 pounds) of oil. When the trees are fully grown the ground should be plowed at in- tervals during the year, and should be once hoed during the autumn. The cost of this per annum, including the pruning and cleaning of the trees, is about 106 to 130 lire ($19.80 to $25.09) per hectare (2^ftf0 acres). For oil the fruit should be gathered when it commences to change color from gray to dark red. The fruit must be picked by hand, not knocked off with poles, and care taken not to bruise it. If bruised or injured in any way it soon becomes rotten, and the oil from it is of poor quality. As soon as gathered the oil should at once be compressed from the fruit. In Sicily there are mills for this purpose. The fruit is placed between two stones and the stones forced together by screw power. It spoils the fruit to let it lie in heaps in a store-house before extracting the oil. The oil as soon as extracted is placed in large jars. The jars should be thoroughly cleaned with vinegar and water before receiving the oil. When the jars have been filled with the oil, they are placed in rooms where the temperature is kept about 15° above zero (R6aumar), (or Fahrenheit about 50° above zero). In the month oV June following, as soon as the oil becomes clear (impurities settling to the bottom) the upper strata of oil (the clearest) in the jars must be poured off into other jars, the cloudy or poorer quality remaining. This oil is the first grade or best quality. In a month after this process is repeated, the turned-off oil being second grade or quality. After the lapse of another month the process is again repeated, giving an oil of third quality. The dregs are now left in the first jars, and are here used for making soap, rubbing on the bark of sickly young trees, etc. For export the olives must be gathered by hand in the month of De- THE OLIVE IN TUSCANY 687 r, when the? are of a green or whitish green color, according to the kind of fruit. The fruit is then placed in barrels or large jars and covered with a strong brine. In this condition the fruit is exported. The brine is thus prepared: Into a barrel or tub is poured fresh, clean water until it is three fourths full ; over this is hung a basket filled with coarse salt, the bottom of the basket being 3 or 4 inches beneath the surface of the water. When the water becomes completely impregnated, and will hold no more salt in solution, it is ready for use. Black olives for condiments are thus prepared : They must be gath- ered by band when they begin to ripen and commence to turn black. They must not be fully ripe. When gathered they are cleaned and salted in baskets. The proportion of fruit and salt is about a large handful of coarse salt to a gallon of the fruit. Coarse salt is first spread in the bottom of the basket, then a layer of fruit, then of salt, and so alternately until the basket is full. In this condition the fruit must re- main a month, then with fresh water cleanse the fruit from the salt and place it in clean jars, covering the surface with laurel leaves. Another method of preparing the black olive for table use is thus : As above the olives must be picked when they commence to lose their green color, becoming somewhat dark. Place the fruit in shallow bas- kets in the shade, letting it remain thus for a day. Then close the fruit in jars for twenty-four hours. Then salt the fruit in jars, scatter- ing upon each layer of the fruit two handfuls of fine salt to a gallon of the olives. Some hours afterwards when the fruit is impregnated with the salt, remove it to other jars, pouring upon it a copious supply of olive oil of the first quality that is pleasant to the taste. Cover the surface with laurel leaves. ALBERT WOODCOCK, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Catania, July 21, 1884. TUSCANY. REPORT BY CONSUL WELSH, OF FLORENCE. [Repubiished from Consular Reports No. 41-}.] I have th. honor to hand you my reply to the circular issued by the Department of State, under date of the 4th of December, 1883, and re- ceived at this consulate on the 23d of January, 1884. I regret the delay, which has been unavoidable, and in this connec- tion I may mention that the answer from the consular agency at Cag- liari, Sardinia, reached me on the 15th instant, and that, although vines and olives are grown to a large extent in this district, there are scarcely any exports of the same made through this consulate. I have, there fore, had much difficulty in arriving at the information I am able to give. 688 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. OLIVES AND OLIVE TREES. Olive trees are adapted to few countries, being so delicate that they can thrive under the influence of a mild temperature only. Cold winds and a soil too fresh or too dry are equally unfavorable to their produc- tiveness. Therefore, on the Mediterranean coasts, and nominally in Italy, it seems that olive trees meet with most of the conditions favorable to their development. Olive trees in a favorable climate and soil grow quickly, and are both strong and leafy. In Tuscany the diameter of the trunk measures from 0.25 meters to 0.30 and 0.42 meters (9J inches, 11 J inches, 1 foot 4J inches). The or- dinary height of the tree when fully developed is from 5 to 7 meters (16 feet to 22 feet 7 inches), and the maximum and exceptional height is from 8 to 12 meters (25J feet to 38 feet). It is difficult to state the length of life and productiveness of olive trees. In the most favorable countries, however, they remain fruitful during two hundred or three hundred years, and if after this term of life they do not bear, young shoots are produced by them which become fruitful, so that actually, when properly tended, they may be said never to die. Among the olive trees the following are the better known in Tuscany : Infrantoio (fit for the press), one of the most delicate and very sus- ceptible to cold. Olivastro (dark brown olive), found on the hills ; hardy, but not very productive. Moraiolo (resembling the mulberry), hardy, ripening early, and fairly productive. Razzo or Grossaio (large and lucent), much appreciated for the abun- dance and size of its olives and the good quality of its oil. Coreggiolo (resembling the crucible from its lowering branches), sus- ceptible to cold weather, and consequently not adapted to high localities, but still growing with northern expossure. Gremignolo (a coarse description of olive), ripening in March or April, and found in the Pisan Mountains. Leccino (holm-oak), coarser, but very hardy, and not susceptible to cold. Quercetano (resembling the oak), deriving its name from QueVceta, a small place in the Lucchese, where it is largly cultivated, owing to its strong constitution and resistance to sea winds. Indolcitoio (tender and sweet), whose fruit, larger than other varie- ties, but with little oil, is eaten fresh after having been for some time well soaked. The varieties mostly used in Tuscany are the— Infrantoio, with favor able exposure, and the Moraiolo elsewhere. The Infrantoio grows well in sheltered places and on hillocks. This plant is very susceptible to exposure to or changes of weather. The Moraiolo, cultivated in a meager and arid soil, is very hardy and bears well. THE OLIVE IN TUSCANY. (189 Olive trees arc generally reproduced from ligneous excrescences of the stock or roots, iu the form of a half an egg, from which they are called uovoli, cut in the spring, placed in holes made in a plowed soil, covered with fine earth and watered according to the exigencies of the season. The uovolo sends forth shoots, the most robust of which are brought up, and in the third year of their existence may be planted. The repro- duction by seed is not exclusive, however. Small plants are cared for in a nursery and grafted on in the third year, and in the fourth are transplanted. Olive trees are planted in square ditches of over 2 meters (6 feet 5J inches) and at a depth of about 1 meter (3 feet 3 inches), with, proper arrangement for drainage. Olive trees commence to bear one year after being planted, and farm- ers anticipate the amount and increase of the crop from the date thereof, relying upon the Tuscan sayings, viz: Se mignola d? Aprile, vacci col barile (bearing in April, look for a bar- relfnl ; abundant crop)* Se mignola di Maggio, vacci col saggio (bearing in May, hope for the best ; scarce crop). Se mignolidi Giugno, vacci colpugno (bearing in June, expect a hand- ful ; poor crop) ; which are confirmed by the following : La prima oliva e oro (the first olive is gold). La seconda argento (the second is silver). La terza val niente (the third is of no value). That is to say that the tree precocious in its bearing produces best; less sure are those flourishing later, and the produce of those bearing last is of little or no value. In well-disposed orchards olive trees are planted at a distance of from 4 to 6 meters (13 to 19 feet 4 inches) one from the other. The number of trees is generally from 400 to 600 per hectare (2J acres). Pruning in the best-conducted orchards consists in well clearing out the center of the tree in order that all the branches bearing may have plenty of light, sun, and air. The trees are pruned every two or three years. Any dying or dead branches are taken off as soon as noticed. Every year the soil is turned with the spade and every other year ma- nured. It is thought by scientists that pruning is carried to too great an extent. Columella, the ancient agriculturist ,who greatly advanced oil culture, says of this plant that " the plowing of ground is a re- quest, the manuring is a prayer, and the pruning is an order to produce fruit." The best orchards in the Lucchese may produce each two years 180 hectoliters (510 bushels) of olives per hectare (2J acres), from which quantity there can be had 2J60 kilograms of oil (4,761.33 pounds), or about 24J hectoliters (646 gallons). It is calculated that one hectoliter (2.83 bushels) of olives gives 12 kilograms of oil (26J pounds), and Domenico Capponi, in his treatise on olive oils, considers fairly remunerative the production of from 10 to 15 kilograms (22 to 33 pounds) per hectoliter of olives (2.83 bushels). 690 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The average biennial product is estimated at 120 hectoliters per hec- tare (340 1 bushels, 2J acres), equal to 1,440 kilograms of oil (3,174.62 pounds), or about 16£ hectoliters (430 gallons). The olive tree in Tuscany produces an average of 1.188 kilograms oil (2 pounds) per year. Such re- sults, however, are given, but in good years and considering then* uctuation of the product, the biennial average is reduced to 11 hectoliters (290 gallons) of oil per hectare (2J acres), at the price of 136 lire ($27.20) per hectoliter (26.417 gallons), as being the average price for the last six years, giving the gross amount of 748 lire per annum. To that is added the value of olive husks, from 1 lire to 2.50 lire per quintal, and of fagots derived from the pruning, which amount to 64 lire every two years,.inak- ing a gross amount of 780 lire per hectare and per year ($156 from 2J acres.) The following statement will show about the expenses of working a hectare of olive trees and the approximate net receipts, calculating for one instead of two years : Lire. Working the ground 20.00 Pruning 36. Co Manuring 300.00 Plucking olives 40.00 Pressing olives 7.20 Interest at 5 per cent, per annum 20.20 423. 40 Which, deducted from the gross amount of 780 lire, leaves 356.10 lire net. It is generally calculated that the expenses of an orchard represent one-third of the actual value of the produce, and that estimate is made as an average. The expenses, however, exceed by far said figure, as the above estimate shows. The olive culture is sometimes managed by what is called mezzeria, or a system when half the net profits are paid to laborers, all the expense but that of pressing the olives being borne by the owner. Tuscan oils from Lucca, Calci, and Buti are esteemed as the first oils .of the world. Not all Tuscan oils, however, reach that degree of perfec- tion, but even judging in mass, they are considered the best. For twenty years past Tuscany has not produced oil for burning or for lubrication, all attention being given to the production of salad and cooking oils. In some places hot water is used to facilitate the pressing. The best rules adopted for extracting oil are the following, viz : (1.) To expedite the careful gathering of olives already fallen from the tree. (2.) To harvest the olives as soon as ripe, plucking the fruit by hand or whipping the trees gently. (3.) To press olives before fermentation and to dispose them in small strata in the baskets. THE 01, LYE IN TUSCANY. 691 (4.) To press slowly and at a cold temperature. (5.)To have all machinery and recipients very ctaan, as well as to in- sist on the cleanliness of the laborer. Crushing presses of old system are used, and the quantity of olives submitted to each pressure varies from 150 to 250 liters (4J to 7 bushels), but not over. Olives must be well pressed and ground for about one hour, after which they are reduced to a paste and placed in frails, submitted to presses, and then mixed with cold water for a second pressure, and even a third pressure, but with hot water in that case. The oil produced by a first gentle pressure is the virgin oil; the other is mixed, and consti- tutes a second quality, usually called olio mangiable (table oil) ; a third quality is derived from the deposit of oil, and used by colonists for burn- ing. Olive oil is preserved in jars varnished inside, containing from 50 to 300 liters and over (13.200 to 79.251 gallons). Olive husks crushed and pressed again give an in/erior oil for lubricating purposes. The clarifi- cation of oil must not be too cold nor too hot. The temperature is not to vary from 10° to 12° centigrade (54° Fahr.), in order that the oil fluid be such as to facilitate the deposit of heterogeneous substances. The process of preparing olives for table use consists in their sweet- ening or drying ; those green are sweetened, and the ripe olives are dried. To sweeten they are placed in clean water during five or six days, changing the water four or five times a day. When they have lost their bitterness they are transferred into a pitcher of brine with a few branches of fennel, taking care to keep them well plunged in. After sixty days they are good for table use and are so preserved until the fol- lowing year. They can be sooner prepared for table use by crushing, extracting the nut and keeping the fruit moist for four or five days and changing the water four or five times a day. They are then placed in brine, and after six or eight days may be eaten alone, or with vinegar and oil, according to taste. Olives can also be sweetened by keeping them in brine until they lose their bitterness, after which they are placed in water renewed twice or three times a day for four or five days until they lose their disagreeable taste. Then they are kept in brine, adding thereto fennel, cloves, cinnamon, or nutmeg, but the fennel if used must be used alone. Dark olives are dried by exposure to the sun for from fifteen to twenty days, and are subjected to a slight sprinkling of salt. Another process is to place the fruit in baskets, with alternate layers of salt. In the course of twenty-four hours the juice will commence to leave the fruit, and after five or six days the fruit is sufficiently dry for table use. Day by day the baskets should be gently shaken and a little salt sprinkled on. Olives for oil are to be picked when thoroughly ripe, which is clearly shown by the bright black color, and also by the fact that at such tirae 692 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. their pulp is easily severed from the nut and has a violet color, its compounds are : Pulp 56.02 Water 14.38 Skin 9.38 Nut 20.16 Oil from the nut 06 Total 100.00 From experiments made it results that one hectoliter (2.83 bushels) contains from 48,000 to 50,000 olives, the difference being ascribed to the variety, according to soil, climate, and season. Olives accumulated for some weeks might number 54,000 or 56,000 per hectoliter (2.83 bushels). The " queen olives of commerce n are considered in Tuscany as the selected fruit of the common olive. There is no system of artificial irrigation in use for olive culture in Tuscany. The annual rain-fall in this district is about 1.067mm, equal to about 42 inches. Official statistics show that the following countries import olive oil from Italy, ranking in importance as to quantity of oil as named : France, England, Austria, Russia, South America, United States, Netherlands, Turkey, Sweden and Norway, Denmark, Portugal, Belgium, Greece, Switzerland, Egypt, Brazil, Algiers, etc. Barrels, bottles, or tin cans are used to hold the oil. In Tuscany there are three prevailing diseases which seriously affect the olive tree, viz : Lupa, meaning literally wolf, but actually being a description of dead rot, produced very often by excessive pruning. To cure this the affected parts are gouged out and a hardening liquid preparation applied, that the circulation of sap may continue. Mosca dell olivo (the olive fly). — This insect lays its eggs into the olive itself, and when the deposit is discovered the olives are gathered im- mediately. Should the eggs be allowed to remain the fruit is much deteriorated, if not ruined. The eggs are red, and therefore easily dis- covered, i Bruco dell olivo (the olive grub). — This insect is the most dangerous enemy to the olive tree here, consuming the sap and thereby drying up branches and buds. When discovered the tree must be thoroughly pruned, all the foliage removed, and every portion containing the insect burned or buried away from the plantation. ZONE FOR THE CULTURE OF OLIVE TREE. The zone in which the Oliva Europcea is most appreciated and its culture most remunerative is on the shores of the Mediterranean. The 1HH OLIVE IN TUSCANY. 693' olive tree does not thrive with, extremes of temperature ;. a climate too hot and dry or too cold and moist is not favorable to its culture. It thrives well on the sea coast or on the hill-side, producing buds in March at a temperature of 10.50° or 11° centigrade (52° Fahr.), blossoming in April at 15° centigrade, flourishing in May at 18° centigrade, and form- ing the fruit in June at 21° centigrade. The lowest winter temperature supported without damage is 7° or 8° centigrade ; but this temperature can not be withstood any length of time, indeed not over a week. OLIVE CLIMATE. (a.) The minimum of the temperature should be 7° or 8° centigradej and that not to exceed eight days. (b.) Snow five or six times per year, and the snow to not last more than two or three days at a time. Over that would undoubtedly injure the tree. v (c.) Olives should commence to ripen before the end of October, and the average temperature should not be lower than 16° centigrade. (d.) The months of June, July, and August should be dry to render the olive healthy. From 25mra to 30mni (1 inch) of rain is necessary before June, suppos- ing the previous winter to have been a fairly wet one. District*. Latitude. Altitude. Maximum. Minimum. o 43 47 Feet. 72.0 o *39. 5 o til Pisa . 43 48 8.0 35.5 9.5 Sienna 43 20 348.5 36.2 8 5 * Extreme heat known in summer at Florence ; actually the thermometer seldom rises over 30° cent. ..r -''• Fahr. t This degree of cold is very rarely felt. The thermometer at Florence during the winter very sel- dom falls lower than 5° cent, or 25° Fabr. EXPORT OF OLIVE OIL. I have now given the method of making pure olive oil, but it is to be regretted that no pure oil is exported from Italy. The cotton-seed oil is made and imported in large quantities for mixing with the olive, thus giving to the dealer a- larger profit than he would receive from the pure oil. Twenty- five per cent, of the liquid exported is composed of cotton- seed oil, and the mixture sometimes contains as much as 50 per cent. My dispatch No. 23, dated May 2, 1883, gives an easy method of dis- covering the presence of the adulterating liquid.* The cotton-seed oil * The test of Prof. Commendatore Bechi, director of the Technical Institute and of the Agrarian School, is as follows : In a glass bulb place 5 cubic centimeters of the olive oil to be tested ; add to this 25 cubic centimeters of alcohol of 98° areometer. Then add 5 cubic centimeters of the test, which is composed thus: One gram of crystallized nitrate of silver dissolved in l-.'U cubic rt ntimft»-rs of alcohol 98° areometer. The bulb containing the matterjust 694 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. is not unhealthy, but simply detracts from the flavor of the pure article. WILLIAM L. WELSH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Florence, March 17, 1884. VENETIA. REPORT BY CONSUL NOTES, OF VENICE. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 41£.] If, as has been seen, the production of oranges and lemons at a special point of the Venetian territory is in reality a forced and artificial indus- try, that of the olive, so characteristic in many other parts of Italy, is hardly better suited to the natural conditions of the country here, and only reaches the importance of an industry in the same limited region. In all the eastern and central portions of Yenetia the plant itself is rarely seen, and its cultivation for product insignificant or null. At the extreme west, on the hilly slopes with southern exposure around Verona, are found occasional plantations, though their extent and pro- duction have constantly decreased since the sixteenth century in con- sequence of the change of climate, caused by the excessive denudation of the mountains, and the exaggerated risk and difficulty thus produced to the cultivation, besides the outlay of time and capital before a return can be gathered. In an industry thus discouraged and declining, little effort is made for improvement, and in general, as it is one of the most ancient of all forms of culture, so is it perhaps that which has least bene- fited by the application of art or intelligence. The olive cultivated here and throughout Italy, whatever modifica- tions it may have undergone by climate and situation, belongs to but one species — Olea JEuropea — which, however, with long neglect and hardship is subject to a transformation so marked as to appear a change of nature. When the tree becomes scrubby and uncouth, changes the described is then placed in water, the temperature of which must be brought to 84° centigrade (151° Fahrenheit). After half an hour's immersion the oil, if impure, be- comes of a dark, muddy color, and with practice and caution the actual proportion of the adulterating liquid can be determined. Another method is to place 5 centimeters of the oil into a bulb and add thereto 30 centimeters of alcohol 98°. Shake the mixture thoroughly, and then let it rest until the oil and alcohol separate. Then transfer the alcohol to another glass bulb and add the test (same quantity as before). Put the bulb in the bath and heat the water to the same grade (84° centigrade or 151° Fahrenheit), when if the oil is impure a dis- tinct dark color will be produced. This test is based on the essential quality pos- sessed by the glycerine of the cotton-oil to reduce the nitrate of silver. It is always well to also use the test with pure olive oil, when, if the oil be thoroughly pure, no decoloration will l»e observed. i A. 695 form of both its ! nl branches, bears only abortive fruit or none at all. and assumes almost the character of a dilleient species, in this form it is known as the Olea siiratu-n. Un grafted or abandoned trees always tend to return to this primitive type. In the Veronese olive plantations a number of varieties are distin- guished, resulting from local conditions, by which the plant is still easily influenced. Among these are specially prized the Cosaliva or /V a low spreading tree, with pendent boughs, long lance-shaped leaves, and small oval fruit, which has the merit of bearing each year regu- larly, not at all certain with other trees ; the Drnpo forte, taller than the above, with narrower and sharper leaves and fruit, rich in oil, but very delicate and capricious in its product; the Gagnan, likewise a con- siderable tree, with branches less inclined and roundish fruit very full of oil; the tree is hardy, but only bears every other year; the Rosa, lt years ; but this only in exceptionally favorable years, with refreshing rains in August and September. It has already been stated that the olive in no case commences bear- in- fruit before the age of 6 years. It reaches a great age, 600 to 800 years on the average, frequently 1,000, or more. Researches, more or less reliable, have been published, affirming that each cultivated plant gives during its existence an average product of 10,356 kilograms of oil, varying infinitely, of course, with the age and nature of the tree and mode of culture. GATHERING AND PREPARING THE OLIVES. Olives intended for the press are gathered at full maturity in Octo- ber, November, and even as late as January, with much difference of practice in this respect, as the fruit of the same tree ripens with very unequal promptness and grows richer in oil to the last moment. On the other hand, if over ripe, the oil is much more subject to become 698 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. rancid, besides the risk of injury from premature frost or snow and insects, so that the surer practice is to gather while some part of the fruit is still green. For table use, on the contrary, it should be plucked not quite ripe, and, the finest and largest being selected, to neutralize the contained acid which renders them acrid to the taste, they are placed as soon as gathered in a vessel of glass or earthenware, filled with lime-water in which the olives float, and the orifice closed with osier. After standing thus for twenty-four hours the lime-water is drawn off from below and replaced by water, fresh and pure ; thenceforward it should be re- newed every twelve hours, alternating pure and lime water till the liquid comes from the jar flat and tasteless. In this condition the olives may be long kept good if immersed in a solution of seasalt fla- vored with any aromatic. For drying, the olives are gathered later and riper, and dried in the sun or oven like any other fruit. PROCESS OF EXTRACTING THE OIL. The processes for extracting the oil all date from time immemorial, and are of the most primitive description. After fermentation the fruit yields its oil much more readily but of inferior quality and already with a commencement of rancidity. Nevertheless the difficulty of extract- ing it completely with their imperfect appliances, leads many to provoke fermentation by keeping the olives closely covered with matting or woolen cloths. They are then placed in a hopper, from which they drop gradually into the hollow, inverted, and truncated cone of a great stone mortar, in the bottom of which turns a sort of millstone, grinding fruit and stones to a coarse paste. The pulpy mass is now mixed abundantly with warm water, placed in sacks of hempen cord, and ready for the press. This last is of the simplest mechanism ; a heavy wooden beam from 8 to 12 yards in length, fixed at one end and acted on by a screw at the other, forms a lever of the second class. The sacks are placed on the platform in piles of two and three or three and four on each other, in a double heap, to adjust them to the inclination of the press-beam, and as the pressure increases are crowded back and still bathed with warm water until the pulp begins to leave the sack with the oif . This is the first draught and the first quality of oil. The refuse mass is then emptied again into the mortar, with a liberal addition of warm water, ground over, and again put to press, yielding still a fair quality of indif- ferent oil. The whole operation is repeated a third time, and after pass- ing through a coarse sieve, even a fourth time, but these last dregs are only fit for burning or mechanical purposes. This is all that can be ob- tained by the press power at present in use here, and yet so rich is the fruit that after this insistent extraction, the oil still held in the refuse gives it unequaled value as a fertilizer or as food for animals. The oil from these repeated pressions, largely mixed with pulpy and THE OTJVE IN VKXKTIA. 699 fibrous mat tor, passes into a largo vat, where its freer and purer portion rises to the surface while the "morchia" or pulpy mixture is drawn off from below into large shallow basins, in which, when subjected to a warmer temperature, the albumen coagulates, and the remaining oil, with that already collected, is placed in stone jars ready for sale. From the refuse flux, if subjected to fermentation, which causes the still re- fractory oil vescicles to burst, a certain quantity of very bad oil may be extracted, but this operation is generally left to the press hands for their perquisites. Another process is still more primitive. Here the olives are placed in a long woolen sack, and trampled under foot until the pulp is well separated from the stones. The sack is then doubled on itself and placed under the press, with constant additions of warm water as the operation proceeds, and the oil obtained purified in the manner above described. The refuse and unbroken stones are then sold to the own- ers of grinding mills for a fresh extraction. The product obtained by this simpler process, though less in quantity, is much preferred in com- merce, being the pure extract of the pulp alone, the unavoidable mixt- ure with that of the kernels after grinding greatly impairing the flavor of the whole. CIRCUMSTANCES FAVORABLE TO THE GROWTH OF OLIVES. All the circumstances which favor the growth of the olive are such as generally place it either on hillsides or the shelves at their feet, where, well protected from the cold winds of the north, it may bask in a long season of summer sun, and where, also, it finds oftener the light soil of granitic or schistous detritus that suits it best, while the large mixture of clay common to valleys and bottoms produces the damp and compact formation of all others the most inimical to its nature. It is traditionally the plant of warm regions and of long dry seasons ; an over supply of water would be more injurious to it than otherwise, and no irrigation is attempted or thought of here. However, moderate watering at the opportune moment is always of benefit, and, as before mentioned, those years when some rain occurs in August and Septem- ber, improve the crop. Where the tree is intermittent, these are the bearing years. Far from dreading the neighborhood of the coast, it has been said that the olive is never found more than 150 kilometers from the sea; and although instances are recorded of ancient plantations in Piedmont somewhat farther inland, it is certainly true that the olive orchards of Kurope skirt the shores of the Mediterranean, and the most flourishing are those that clothe the narrow margin of rocky soil between mountain and sea. Those described above in the region of Verona, at about 1 !>."> kilometers from the lagoon of Venice, are among the farthest removed, and not among the most prosperous. Some notice has been given above of the productiveness of the olive, 700 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. as rather precarious in the uncongenial circumstances of the region ; I have not been able to procure any detailed statement of the economical elements of the culture, but as the plant is grown either in the midst of other crops or on ground which would be otherwise unavailable, it is not generally regarded here as a factor of importance in the account of a farm. The latest statements give the present production of oil in the province at about 10,000 hectoliters (264,000 gallons) consumed en- tirely there and in the neighboring region. The preparation of the fruit for table use is exclusively domestic, or, at most, for the retail trade and consumption of the town population adjoining, and no mention is made of it in the statistics of the country. The rainfall registered for the city of Verona fora period of 20 years, from 1861 to 1878, is as follows : Inches. 1861 19.21 1862 32.44 1863.., 29.31 1864 26.16 1865 21.51 1866 29.21 1867 18.68 1868 40.72 1869 56.61 1870... .. 29.85 Inches. 1871 31.10 1872 47.10 1873 38.77 1874 27.16 1875 22.12 1876 42.07 1877. 34.18 1878... .... 35.04 Average 32. 29 FIGS. The fig is regarded here rather as a vile and common plant, insuffi- cient either in quantity or quality for preservation as an article of ex- port, and requiring neither care nor attention in its growth j it thrives everywhere unheeded, in sheltered spots, near country houses or along garden walls, and only serves to supplement the outfit of the market gardener for the nearest town. The fruit at Venice is neither succulent nor very well flavored, though large and -showy, and often ripens badly, or rather decays in ripening. At Verona it is cultivated with care in a few localities, and one variety, with a fruit very small and intensely sweet, the Segalini, much resembling and probably an acclimation of the Piccoli Verdini of Tuscany, but inferior, has a local reputation. Be- sides this, the Napoletani and Santi., introduced from the south, are dried for home use. As the tree is only found casually in odd corners, and usually single, there can be no estimate of yield per acre. For planting, any portion of a branch, slightly beaten and bruised, if placed in the earth will readily take root; the variety preferred may be grafted on it at a proper age. Along the shores of the Lake of Garda the product less in demand for the market as fresh fruit, is dried in small quantities by the simple process of exposing to the sun on osier gratings and packed in small kegs with a little sugar and a liberal sprinkling of flour ; or else strung on twigs and hung in the sunshine till completely evaporated, but till OLIVE CULTURE IN SPAIN. 701 this only Cor family consumption ; there is no exportation of the article, the consumption of which, on the contrary, is entirely supplied by im- portation from the south. Me WALTER B. NOTES, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Venice, March 3, 1884. SPAIN. REPORT BY CONSUL OPPENHEIM, OF CADIZ. [tit-published from Consular Reports No. 4H-] OLIVE CULTURE IN SPAIN. Origin. — The olive tree has been cultivated from the most remote his- torical times. The ancients believed the tree to have been spontane- ously created by a beneficent divinity, and the Greeks attributed the gift sometimes to Minerva, then again to Mercury. Diodorus states that Arista3us introduced the tree into Sicily, and was the first to use stone mills and rustic presses for the extraction of oil. Both the fruit and oil-pressing were, however, known to the Egyptians at a period even more remote than that of Greek myths, as is evidenced by wall pictures representing the process of filling the olives into sacks, which, when full, were placed in presses, from which the oil is seen to flow. Strangely enough, that very Egyptian process of pressing in sacks was until a few years ago in use in remote districts of Spain (in La Mancha), and may still be practiced at this day. There exists some doubt as to whether the olive tree is indigenous to Spain. The wild species is undoubtedly found in many districts, from Catalonia to Cadiz, but by many it is held that these wild trees are merely the survivors of aban- doned plantations, which have reverted to the aboriginal form. Be this us it may, and whether the tree be an immigrant or " to the manor born," Spain is certainly to-day its chosen home, and it is generally admitted that three-fourths of the olive zone in Europe lies within the borders of the Peninsula. Varieties. — The varieties of the olive tree cultivated in Spain are nu- merous. The list following shows the kinds that are most largely raised, and describes the size and appearance of the fruit. (1) The Manianillo : This tree under good conditions of soil and tem- perature, grows to a large size. It is found in Seville and in Granada in great abundance, also in the maritime zone and some of the protected and I'd 1 ile spots of the central region. It needs a rich soil, or, wanting that, high manuring and cultivation ; makes good oil, but in the province •ol fSeville is mostly used for pickling. It is a great bearer, and the 702 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. fruit, which is large, matures early. The dimensions and weight are as follows : length, 25 millimeters; diameter through the thickest part, 23 millimeters ; weight of pulp, 7 grams ; weight of stone, 1 gram. (2) The Sevillano Gordal : A small tree ; is found chiefly in Seville and the lowlands of western Andalusia; wants rich soil, manuring, and usually irrigating also ; is not resistant to cold, and must not be pruned freely, as it is very sensitive to mutilation ; does not yield much oil, and that little is of poor quality ; is used almost exclusively for pickling ; it bears the largest fruit known, which is identical with the u queen olives " of commerce. It is a small bearer and matures late. Dimensions and weight of fruit are : length, 40 millimeters, by 30 millimeters in diame- ter ; pulp weighs from 12 to 14 grams, and stone about 2 grams. (3) The Bcllotudo : A large and luxuriant tree ; not confined to any special district; requires phosphates in abundance and careful pruning, as the limbs have a tendency to intertwine ; gives good oil and matures early, but is a small bearer. Dimensions and weight of fruit : length, 23 millimeters; diameter, 19 millimeters ; weight about 3.2 grams for pulp, and 0.9 for stone. (4) The Redondillo : A medium-sized tree ; a hardy and resistant vari- ety, found chiefly in Central and Northern Spain; needs good soil, manuring, and thorough cultivation, also careful and extensive prun- ing for the same reason as above variety; is excellent for pickling, and gives good oil also; is a large bearer, and the fruit matures very early, requiring only 3,400 heat units (vide infra). Dimensions and weight are: length, 18 millimeters; diameter, 16 millimeters; weight of pulp, 2.5 grams, and of stone, 0.5 gram. (5; The Lechin : Under good conditions this tree reaches a large size ; is found in the provinces of Jaen and Cordoba, though not in abun- dance, being really a northern variety, as it is very hardy and resistant. In Spain it is only used to make oil; in France, however, it is a favor- ite for pickling ; is a large bearer, and fruit matures early. This olive is one of the smallest known, total weight being approximately 1.3 grams. (6) The Nevadillo bianco : A tree of fair size, found chiefly in Jaen, Cordoba, and Cadiz ; must be planted only in well-sheltered spots, being sensitive to winds and to frosts; is only used for oil-pressing; ^matures the fruit early and is a prolific bearer. Dimensions and weight of fruit are: length, 23 millimeters; diameter, 15 millimeters; weight of pulp, 3.6 grains ; and of stone, 0.7 gram. (7) The Varal bianco: A large-sized tree, with straight and vigorous branches ; chiefly found in the province of Jaen ; needs manuring and careful cultivation ; the fruit, which is always scanty in quantity, makes good oil, and is only used for that purpose; matures irregularly, mak- ing collection troublesome. Dimensions and weight of fruit : length, 23 millimeters; diameter, 17 millimeters ; weight of pulp, 2.8 grams ; and of stone 0.6 gram. OLIVE CULTURE IN SPAIN. 703 (S) Tip- A small tree, throwing out but few brandies ; very hardy, and then-tore adapted to a cold climate- is chiefly raised in Navarre and in Aragon; requires light and fertile soil, plenty of humid- ity and manuring, under which conditions it is a most prolific bearer; if matures early, and is by many considered as one of the most desira- ble varieties ; the fruit yields good oil, and is also excellent for pickling. Dimensions and weight are: length, 28 millimeters; diameter, 16 milli- meters : weight of pulp, 3.2 grams; of stone, 0.8 gram. (9) The Racimal: A medium-sized tree ; resists a cold climate well, and thrives lairly even on poor soil ; makes oil of a fair quality, though leaving much refuse in pressing; is given to "off years;" the fruit matures very early, probably earlier than that of any other variety. Dimensions and weights are : length, 23 millimeters ; diameter, 15 millimeters ; weight of pulp, 3 grams; of stone, 0.7 gram. (10) The Varal negro : A fair-sized tree, with straight and large bran- ches; only thrives in well-sheltered spots, as it hardly resists a tempera- tuie lower than — 5° Cent., especially when followed by a quick thaw; found sparingly in Jaeu and Cordoba ; requires very careful pruning and cultivation, and bearing limbs should be ringed; yields good oil; is objected to on account of its being given to " off years ;" in good years, however, it is a large bearer, and the fruit matures early. Dimensions and weight are: length, 25 millimeters; diameter, 17 millimeters; weight of pulp, 2.2 grams ; of stone, 0.9 gram. (11) The Gordal. — A tree of large size, and fine, vigorous branches, also a very quick-growing variety ; is one of the kinds most generally distributed throughout Spain; is largely cultivated in Andalusia and in the central provinces ; requires good soil, manuring, and much culti- vation in order to bear well; resists the cold very well, matures early, and is a prolific, regular bearer; the fruit is good both for oil and for pickling, and its dimensions and weight are : length, 23 millimeters ; di- a meter. 18 millimeters; weight of pulp, 3.7 grams; and of stone, 0.5 gram. (12) The Verdejo. — A tree of medium size, with a tendency to dwarf considerably if not well cared for; is found chiefly in Catalonia, Log- rofio, and Madrid; very hardy and resistant to cold; the yield will be in proportion to fertility of soil and the care given to cultivation; is generally used for pickling only ; is not an early maturing variety. 1 )i- m«-nsioiis and weight of fruit are: length, 22 millimeters; diameter, 12 millimeters ; weight of pulp, 3.1 grams ; of stone, O.G gram. (13) The Madrileno. — A medium-sized tree, of symmetrical appear- ance, limbs arching over; found chiefly in the south and in the mari- time zone ; its name appears to be a misnomer, as it is not cultivated in Madrid or in the central provinces generally ; requires good cultivation and cautious pruning; the. fruit is excellent for pickling, next to the '•queen " in si/**, and of d<-li«-ious flavor ; gives i'.tir oil, but only yields a Miiall quantity in j>r'.p,>rti..n to tin- weight of its pulp; matuivs late 704 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. and is not prolific. Dimensions aud weight of fruit are: length, 35 mil- limeters ; diameter, 28 millimeters ; weight of pulp, 11 grams ; of stone, 1 gram. (14) The Cornicabra, also called the Cornezuelo, the largest olive tree known, having strong, straight branches, is found all over Spain, but is most numerous in the central provinces ; gives better oil than any of the other late-maturing varieties, which, however, as a class, are in that respect much inferior to the early-maturing species; is very resist- ant to cold and matures very late (it requires 3°.978 of heat, vide infra) ; production is variable. Dimensions and weight of fruit are : length, 39 millimeters; diameter, 19 millimeters; weight of pulp, 4 grams.; of stone, 3 .2 grams. (15) The Picudo. — A medium sized tree, with luxuriant limbs, placed obliquely on the trunk. Like the above, it is most frequent in the central districts; bears a fruit which is very much prized for pickling, and has besides the peculiarity of being a " clear-stone " olive ; a fair bearer, but matures late, though earlier than the variety immediately preced- ing. Dimensions and weight of fruit are: length, 30 millimeters ; diam- eter, 18 millimeters ; weight of pulp, 3.2 grams; of stone, 1 gram. (16) The Nevadillo negro. — A medium-sized tree, very luxuriant, and with short and distorted limbs ; is largely cultivated in the province of Jaeu, where it is prized above all other varieties ; produces most plentiful and excellent oil ; with careful cultivation and good soil it is a large and regular bearer ; matures late ; the fruit is pointed and much bent at the distal end, causing this end to point at a right angle from the axial line. Its dimensions and weight are : length, 23 millimeters ; diameter, 15 millimeters ; weight of pulp, 3.6 grams ; of stone, 0.7 gram. Every one of the above-mentioned varieties can be reproduced in several ways, which will be further descanted on when describing the mode of planting. The. most generally adopted modes of propagation are either by planting estacas, which are round, large limbs specially raised for the purpose on the parent tree, as thick as a man's arm and from 2 to 3 meters long, or gar rotes, which are shoots of from 70 to 90 centimeters in length, two of such shoots being usually planted in one pit. By the first system the trees bear after three years, but with (jar- rotes it takes usually from six to eight years. Full bearing is in the larger varieties not reached before twenty to thirty years after planting. With the small and dwarf varieties twelve to fifteen years may be nearer the truth. The maximum of growth is, at least with all large varieties, not reached before eighty years, and individual trees, either on account of especial vigor or favorable surroundings, keep on growing for cent- uries, reaching gigantic size. A French writer mentions three enor- mous olive trees standing near Tarascon. In the hollow trunk of one of them twenty persons could stand next each other, and another had branches 16 meters long. The trees were reputed to be nine hundred years old. The trees standing on the Mount of Olives, near Jerusalem, OLIVI-: • SPAIN. 705 are by many beiu'vcd to be the identical ones that stood there at the time of Jesus Christ. The duration of the productive period is also most difficult to determine ; all that is known is that it lasts extremely long, when not cut short by injuries to the tree or exhaustion of soil surrounding it. Planting and propagating. — Olive trees raised from the stone of the fruit always revert to the original form, called here acebiwhe or wild olive ; henpe in order to reproduce desirable varieties it is necessary to plant parts taken from the living tree, whether shoots, branches, or roots. The most general modes of reproduction is either by estacas or by garrotes. Both modes are followed pretty nearly all over the country, though in the central provinces the second process is the more general, whilst the contrary holds good for the south and the extreme north. The best time for planting (by either mode) is from January to March in the maritime zone, from January till April in the central provinces, and from January till May in the north ; and it may be taken as a safe rule- to plant only when the frosts are over and before the trees have begun to bud. The estaca, which, as before stated, is a stout limb about 3 meters long, should, if possible, be planted immediately after being cut from the parent tree. The hole is dug to a depth varying from 1 to 2 meters, the depth increasing with the severity of the climate ; square pits 90 centimeters each way are the best, but quadrangular ones are less ex- pensive and generally used 5 this pit should be about 85 to 90 centi- meters long by from 20 to 30 wide, and if planting on inclined ground, the length should, cross the line of descent. At the bottom of the pit a layer of well-rotted manure is first deposited, upon which a layer of active outer soil is laid to a depth of 3 or 4 centimeters ; the limb is then placed in the center of the pit and earth (from the upper layer, not that dug from the pit) is then put in, thoroughly broken up, and pressed down with the feet ; when about even with the surrounding earth, a small concavity is left in order to retain rain or irrigation water. This operation is best performed by two men ; one keeps the limb in position and compresses the earth, whilst the other is filling in. In Andalusia it is usual to pile up moist clay against the protrud- ing part of the estaca until no more than about 30 centimeters of its length is visible ; this is held to be very efficient in all hot, dry re- gions, as otherwise it often happens that the limb produces shoots from the lower part only, whilst the upper part dries up. The moist day is piled in the form of a slender cone, and at half its height an opening is left for supplying the limb with water, which in dry weather must be done plentifully. The garrotes are cuttings of from 70 to 90 centimeters in length, which with most varieties may be sup- plied in goodly numbers by such pruning as will benefit the tree. The pits are dug somewhat less deep than for the estacas, and two of the garrotes are planted together, leaning towards each other in such a po- sition that the l\vi» riittings and the bottom of the pit form a triangle, TOG FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. of which the apex is even with the ground. In regard to manuring and filling the pit, the process is similar in both modes of planting, only the upper part of the smaller cuttings must be covered with about 10 centimeters of loose soil. The sprouts from these smaller cuttings are more exposed to damage by frost and by animals than is the case with the plan first described, and the bearing age is also reached some four or five years later, but it is held that the trees raised in that way are more vigorous and productive. Other modes of propagation, such as by shoots from the living roots of a dead tree, or by raising stocks from seed upon which to graft later on, are known to give excellent results, and are occasionally practiced; but the vast majority of Spanish growers confine themselves to the two processes here described. Cultivation. — During the first eight or ten years after planting, the orchard should be plowed three times each year (with a plow making a furrow 10 inches deep), and the soil immediately surrounding the plants hoed three times the first and second year, and later on twice a year. It will frequently happen that plants do not sprout the first year, in which case an extra supply of water and labor should be devoted to such plants 5 should they, however, not produce shoots for two complete years, they should be dug up and replaced by others. The distance at which trees should be placed depends primarily upon the variety planted, the rule being to allow an interval equal to twice the height of the full-grown tree. This is the general rule, which must, however, be departed from accord- ing to local circumstances of topography, soil, and climate. Consider- ations in favor of closer planting are that trees closely planted resist both frost and drought better and also cause the soil to retain humidity longer. Against it may be urged that trees lacking ventilation are more liable to the attacks of fungous parasites and noxious insects j nor must it be forgotten that the roots of the olive tree extend horizontally half as far again as the branches do, and, as the diameter of the crown is usually equal to the height of the tree, close planting may stunt root development. The trees may be placed either in squares or on the diamond plan, as de- scribed when treating of orange culture. The most approved way of ma- nuring olive orchards is to dig a small circular ditch around each tree; the manure (which must always be well rotted and rich in phosphates) is placed therein and covered with soil. The diameter of the circle within the ditch must vary according to the size of the tree, the object aimed at being to place the manure within the range of absorption of the outer rootlets. Manuring is usually effected once every three years, and the best time is the fall of the year. Plaster from old walls is a beneficial addition to the stable manure, and may also be spread within the circle surrounding the tree; and calcined bones in moderate quantities are known to incite growth and to greatly increase the yield. Gas- parin states that 100 kilograms of manure produce about 3 kilograms of oil. Hidalgo Tablada, a practical agronomist and recogniwd an- ou\ I rRK IN SPAIN. 707 thority on fruit culture, gives MIL' ivsuli of his experiments as more favorable still. According to him, 100 kilograms of well-rotted manure applied as above directed increased the product of eacb tree the first year by J..r>0 kilograms, the second year by 3 kilograms, and the third year by "2 kilograms, giving for the three years a total increase of 7.50 kilograms. Irrigation is advisable only in dry districts or in times of drought; in ordinary years and in places where there is a moderate rain- fall the grown trees thrive very well without it. Latitude does not fur- nish any secure guidance as to the benefit conferred by irrigation, and, as a matter of tact, the practice is more common in the north and center than in Andalusia. It must be borne in mind that irrigation has a tend- ency to impoverish the soil (by washing away the mineral constituents); hence, whenever it is practiced, manuring must go along with it ±mri •'. In Saragossa irrigation is much practiced, and so is manuring, whilst in Seville there is very little of either one or the other. If the orchards are properly and deeply plowed, two or three irrigations each year will be found sufficient. When, from the direction of the wind or other signs, there is apprehension of a very severe frost, copious irriga- tion will often preserve the trees from injury, as the evaporation from the soil has a tendency to mitigate the effects of a sudden lowering of. temperature. I' r unlng and ringing. — Pruning olive trees is by many growers con- sidered as the most delicate operation connected with olive culture, ».41 as the one upon which the prosperity of the orchard most de- pends. Independently of removing withered or injured branches, the purposes of pruning are the following : (1) The removal of the secondary and tertiary branches that only bear weak and sterile twigs, thus making room for the development of more healthy and vigorous ones. (2) The elimination of superfluous primary limbs when they obstruct ventilation and light. (3) The general thinning out of the branches of certain varieties that have a tendency to extreme luxuriancy and to the intertwining of limbs. (4) The correction of the habit of producing very long vertical shoots (which are usually sterile), thereby favoring the forming ot lateral bearing twigs. For the cutting of larger limbs the following directions are given : Let the limb be sawn off even with the trunk, taking great care not to damage the edges of the bark, as it is those edges which are eventu- ally to grow over and cover up the wound. In order to facilitate this healing process, the exposed part of the wood is made slightly con- ing a scoop-shaped chisel for the purpose ; the wound is then plastered with a salve made of wet clay and cow-dung, which should be applied with a brush. It is very important that this work be well and neatly done, leaving no protruding splinters or irregular surfaces. The smaller branches may be cut with the hatchet, always taking great care 708 FRUIT rui/ruKK IN FORKIGN COUNTRIES. not to remove any more bark than is absolutely necessary ; and for the removal of shoots and twigs pruning-shears are to be used. In regard to the best time for pruning, the custom varies in different districts. Some writers on the subject contend that if pruning is effected when the sap ascends in the spring the healing process is more rapid 5 others are of opinion that it is best to prune at the end of winter and before the sap has begun to move upwards. It is, however, universally admitted that pruning is only to take place after the fruit has been collected and before budding has begun. Thorough pruning is generally only done once every two or three years, and as the pruned trees give a smaller yield the first year after the operation, it is well to divide the trees into two or three classes, one of which is pruned and trimmed every year, thus dividing the work and equalizing the annual yield. As a direct means of stimulating the production and ripening of fruit the practice of "ringing" is recommended. The process consists in removing an annular strip of bark, varying from one-half to 1J centi- meters in width, from the base of secondary or tertiary flower-bearing branches, thereby preventing the descent of the sap, which is thus utilized for the formation of fruit. This operation, which must be per- formed when the tree has begun to blossom, but before the flowers are fully expanded and fecundation has begun, is of great usefulness with varieties that are given to u off years," or to exuberant flowering not followed by bearing. Individual trees, as well as varieties bearing scantily and irregularly, have been made to yield both plentifully and regularly by this process, which, however, like all pains-taking prac- tices, is limited to a few careful growers. Climate and situation. — The olive tree in Western Europe thrives in the open air as far north as 46°, though beyond 44° it only bears ir- regularly and scantily 5 from that point the size of the tree and the regularity of yield increase as one proceeds farther south until 18° is reached ; beyond that latitude the tree grows luxuriantly, but does not yield fruit. Spain being situated between 35° 59' 49" and 43° 47' 29" of north latitude, the whole of its territory is within the limits of the olive region. Observation has established the fact that the olive in order to mature requires a certain number of units of heat during the period o^ most active vegetative life, said period beginning with the first appearance of the blossoms and ending with the first severe frost. This number of heat units (each of 1° centigrade), which varies with different varieties, and ranges from 3,400° up to 3,978°, is to be computed by adding the mean heat of each day during the period between blossoming (which requires a temperature of +19°) and the first frost. Any district in which the temperature will sum up to 3,978° during that period is there- fore adapted to olive culture, provided the winter is not severe enough to kill the tree. In that sense the limit of its endurance is a tempera- ure-7° to- 8°, which, however, must not last beyond eight continuous i IK I. IN S1M1V 709 days, (iiven tin1 nn MI temperature of the summer months and the time of blossoming in any steited place, the time of maturity may be deduced; thus in Seville the olive tree blooms about the 1st of May, and the mean temperatures are : Month. Days. Mean tem- perature. May 31 °C. ov a 30 °4 1 July 31 >>Q 9 31 30 1 ... _ . . St'ptt- inl)Rf - 30 •"> 3 ( )t-t, ,),,>[• . ... 31 '•"7 'J 184 It' we divide the number of degrees by six, we obtain the mean monthly temperature, 27°.3, which, multiplied by 184 (the number of days), gives a total of r>,<)23°; hence the fruit in Seville usually matures about the 1st of October. For Mora- 1 a 31 5 7 224 147.2 Giving mean temperature for eight months 18°.4, which, multiplied by I'L't. gives 4,121°; hence the olive matures towards the middle of De cember. Valladolid may be cited as a place where, owing to late blossoming and early frosts, the maturing of the fruit is impossible. Assuming blossoming to take place on the 15th of June, there will be : Month. Days. Mean t« in- perature. ]-, 19 31 26 3 31 24 September 30 20 6 31 8 % 138 98.4 vember the temperature fall* to 4°. 710 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Giving 5t mean temperature of 19.7°, which, multiplied by 138 sums up to 2,718°, less by about 700° than is required for maturing even the earliest variety of the fruit. Altitude, in as far as it brings about a decrease of the temperature, is equivalent to latitude, and it is admitted that each 181 meters of height represent a change of climate equivalent to 1° of latitude, from which the conclusion may be drawn that olive culture can be carried on at high altitudes only in the southern parts of its habitat, and vice versa. In the vicinity of Madrid there are productive groves stand- ing on ground that has 655 meters of elevation above sea-level. The altitude being 40° 24' 30", and 615 meters being equivalent to 3° 24', the climatic conditions are those of latitude 53° 48' 30". In the prov- ince of Granada trees are found at an altitude of 1,000 meters above sea-level, representing 5° 31' 30", which added to the latitude of the district, which is 37° II7 10", brings up the effective latitude to 42° 42' 40". Exposure and incline are most important factors in olive culture. Exposure varies in its effects, both according to latitude and to local cir- cumstances, hence no invariable rule can be given, though generally southern exposure is best, as being less liable to frost. In a warm, dry climate, however, trees thus placed will need irrigation in order to do well. Near the northern limits of the olive region, and on high ground, where frosty nights are common in the fall, eastern exposure is deprecated, because in such situations the first rays of the sun bring about very sudden and abrupt changes of temperature. A quick thaw after a moderate frost will generally cause more injury than a period of more severe cold followed by gradual thawing; this accounts for the fact that after a spell of very hard cold the trees most injured are tho.se most accessible to the rays of the sun. As regards incline, it is held by most growers that slightly rising ground is preferable to a perfect level. The benefit from an inclined situation, with southern exposure, increases as one goes further north, as the obliquity of the sun's rays is thereby counteracted. The rise should, however, not exceed the ratio of 6 meters to 100, as on steeper ground cultivation by plowing becomes difficult and the soil covering the roots on the upper side of the tree is apt to wash away. At inclines much exceeding the above it is usually necessary to bank up ttte ground, thus creating a succession of small level terraces, involving much labor and expense, and also losing the advantage derived from the greater perpendicularity of the suu's rays upon inclined surfaces. Natural or artificial obstacles to injurious winds, such as mountains, forests, or walls, shelter a certain extent of ground on their lee side. Spots sheltered on the north are usually considered as being benefited thereby to the extent of fully one degree of latitude. The ground shel- tered extends horizontally in the ratio of 11 to 1, as compared to the height of the obstacle ; thus, a mountain chain 1,000 meters high will OLIVE CULTURE IN SPAIN. 711 shelter the land on its lee to a distance of 11,000 meters from its apex. Beyond that point, however, the injurious effects of winds th,us impeded is more potent than it would be it' the obstacle did not exist. The Sierra of Guadarraina, which rears its crest up to 2,385 meters, shelters its southeast exposure to a distance of 26,235 meters, but beyond that limit the action of the cold winds crossing its summits from north to south is felt most keenly. The neighborhood of the sea is by no means prejudicial to olive orchards, and in the maritime zone, wherever the proper conditions of soil and climate prevail, olive culture is carried on in close proximity to the shore. The ancient dictum, laid down both by Latin and Aral) authors;, that olive culture could only be prosecuted within 30 leagues from the sea, has, however, been disproved by modern experience. ,srf,,7. — it may be laid down as a general proposition that soil adapted to the vine is well suited also to olive culture. The characteristics of such a soil will be looseness and fair permeability, and for the olive it is necessary that the soil and active subsoil should have a depth of at ItMst one meter. A calcareous soil, meaning thereby one which con- tains a large proportion of carbonate of lime, is considered valuable for dive culture, especially so in the south; in a northern district, where the summer is short, such soils are open to the objection of being oold, as their white coloring prevents absorption of heat. The presence of oxide of iron in such soil, by giving it a reddish tint, corrects this objec- tion, and it is on such soils usually that great yields are obtained on the high central plateaus and in the north. Both magnesia and sul- phate of lime are efficient substitutes for carbonate of lime — and some sulphate may always be advantageously applied with the manure. Oil produced on soils poor in these ingredients has usually a greenish tinge, and is not as limpid as oil from soils containing them. Potash is a necessary constituent tor olive culture, and when not present in suilirient quantity, must be artificially supplied. A tendency to ex- uberant flowering and aborting of the fruit, shows a deficiency of phos- phates in the soil, which must be remedied in order to obtain good yields. The hygrometric properties of the soil are an important factor, which, however, must necessarily be appreciated according to the general climatic conditions of the locality. Here it is held that in order to be well adapted to the olive tree, soil should retain its looseness after a rain of forty-eight hours' duration, and that during the hot season it should contain 10 per cent, of its weight in water. /v.sf.v. — The olive tree is subject to a disorder which some years ago -ave rise to considerable controversy, some authors holding that it was caused by insect, while others ascribed it to the agency of a fungus. It by different names in the different districts; in Andalusia it is spoken of as mclera, mangla, melazo, tinuela, tizne (smut), accitillo, etc., and in other parts it is frequently called negra, negrilla or ncgrura, all 156A 21 712 FKUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. meaning blackness, and indicating the outward appearance of the af- fected trees. The disorder is now generally believed to be caused by a fungus either identical or closely allied to the Dematium monophyllum, already alluded to as one of the most damaging parasites of the orange tree. Trees standing on very moist ground are especially subject to its attacks, though dry ground does not give immunity when the foliage is luxuriant; removing excess of moisture from the soil and liberal prun- ing so as to admit light and air, are both preventive and cure for the disorder. The olive tree has many enemies amongst the insect tribe, and the following is a list of those most frequently encountered: The olive bug (Lecunium olece), which fastens itself to the green parts of the tree and sucks its j uices. Pruning the infested limbs, and thereby giving free access to light and air, is the most efficient remedy, and the larger affected parts are to be smeared over with petroleum. The olive moth (Aeophora olivetta, also Oruga minadora) does damage chiefly in the caterpillar state. Bernard describes its appearance thus : Ifc is about? millimeters in length, and is composed of twelve segments, the body is of the same color as the under side of the olive leaves and sometimes yellowish ; its mandibles are at first black, and later on they grow yellow. It frequently penetrates under the bark of the twigs, and causes the formation of the s. c. agallas (gall-nuts) upon them. It also introduces itself into the fruit, eating the pulp and even the kernel itsfclf. The perfect insect is greenish white in color, has four wings and two large antennae. Careful cleaning and pruning, removing all visible nests, and the ap- plication of petroleum or of a solution of lime to the limbs are the means usually suc- cessful in fighting this pest. It seems to be established that this insect is never found on a tree infested with the olive bug. The olive fly (Dacus olecB) is an insect about 5 millimeters in length, yellowish red in color, with three black stripes on the abdomen, wings larger than its body, and of a golden color with black striae. This in- sect lays its minute eggs upon the nascent fruit, and the worm burrows galleries into it and feeds upon the pulp. When the caterpillar has reached its full size, it resembles that of the olive moth, but it has only 11 segments instead of 12, and its mandibles are always black. When this insect has obtained a foothold, it is best to gather the fruit at once (even though it be green and yield but very little oil), as this prevents the propagation of the pest and may thereby avert more serious dam- age the following season. The olive flea (pulguilla del.olivo) derives its name from its peculiar mode of rising, which looks more like jumping than flying. It is about 5 millimeters long, has transparent ovoid wings dotted with yellow, thread-like antennae, and greenish abdomen. The larva, or worm, is light green, with head of a dark red. It places itself usually on the petioles of the leaves and buds; its time of fecundation coincides with the blossoming of the olive. The larvae are deposited on a layer of a whitish downy matter called by the country people algodon del olivo .E CULTURE IN SPAIN. 713 (Anglice, cotton of the <>li . The insect's life duos not, hist much >iul one month, but it causes many blossoms to fall off, and rain showers in blooming time, though in themselves prejudicial to the yield, are effectual in d. 4' the insect. Two small beetles, respectively the Rylesinm olesperda and the Phloio- tribus, are especially destructive to the soft white layer underneath the bark j the ova an* deposited between the bark and the wood of broken branches, or after pruning. The perfect insects are about 3 millimeters* in length. The Aspidiotus cowhyformis is an insect about 5 millimeters in length, ashy in color, provided with a proboscis with which it fastens itselfs to the bark of the tree in great numbers, generally, however, avoiding the leaves or tender shoots. This facilitates their removal by rubbing with a coarse mop or brush. As with all other noxious insects, petroleum is an effective remedy. A small worm, commonly called taladrilla (Anglice, small borer), of which the perfect form is not identified, introduces itself into the stone of the olive, and after devouring the kernel, makes its exit by way of the petiole, causing the fruit to drop off, usually in an unripe state. In this case, as with the olive fly, it is advised to sacrifice the year's yield and gather the fruit at once, in order to prevent the recurrence of the i he following season. Picking. — The time of ripening varies considerably according to lo- : d the species cultivated. When intended for pickling the pick- ing in Andalusia usually begins about the middle of September and lasts till about the 10th or loth of October. The fruit at that time has lied its full development as far as size is concerned, but is yet green ami hard. For oil pressing the harvest begins in November, and may is late as early January. The usual mode of gathering is by knock- uit down with sticks, which is to be deprecated on account of reat damage done to the tender shoots on which the next season's fruit is to be borne. Careful growers pick by hand, which is less expe- ditious, but more profitable in the long run. ling. — For pickling there are two processes in use. The first one is the slow process, and the modus operandi is as follows: Place the freshly picked olives in fresh water, which must be changed day, and let them lie thus about a fortnight. The water should be drawn off quickly and promptly replaced, not leaving the fruit exposed to the air more than is absolutely necessary. The water drawn off will at first be very bitter; this bitter taste will go on decreasing day by day, and the taste must be taken as a criterion as to when this process is to be considered completed, a fortnight or twenty days at most being usually the time required. The olives are then placed in a pickle made of salt and water, of a strength indicated by the French sali- iioineter as 0°, found in practice to be equivalent to a proportion of 714 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. about 1 volume of salt to 14 volumes of water. It is best to use butts or barrels in which wine or brandy has been kept; those having been put to any other use are apt to give the olives the flavor of their previous contents; if new vessels are provided, they should be of oak, not pine, and they should be 'soaked about thirty days before being used. At the bottom a layer of olive twigs and leaves is first placed, which protects the olives from injury by pressure, and on the top of the fruit another similar layer is placed, taking care to have this layer well covered by the brine ; the whole is kept down by some oak staves weighted with bricks or stone, all of which must of course be scrupulously clean, as any noxious taste or flavor imparted to the brine will affect the olives. The vessels should be covered with a cloth or tarpaulin, in order to ex- clude dust. Olives thus treated will be in good order for bottling or for consumption within about four months, and will keep sound certainly two years. For pickling by the quick process a solution of caustic soda is pre- pared, this solution to be of a strength of about 4° of the French sal- inometer, and the fruit placed therein. After remaining in soak tin hour a few olives must be sampled by cutting, in order to ascertain how far the solution has penetrated into the pulp; the depth of such penetration can be readily noticed by the color, and should not exceed half the thickness of the pulp 5 if after an hour this is not the case, other samplings must take place at intervals of not more than ten minutes, until the olives are found to be in the proper condition. Then the solu- tion is to be immediately drawn oft and replaced by fresh water, which must be changed quickly three or four times, the fruit being allowed to remain in the last water for twenty-four hours. During that time the brine is prepared, and next day the olives are placed in it, following the same directions as were given when describing the first process. By this mode the olives will be ready for use within about thirty days. In both modes of preparation the olives should after being once wetted never be exposed to the air more than a few minutes at a time ; and to handle the fruit ladles of wood or tin dippers should be used. This gives a fair outline of the modes in general use for pickling, although undoubtedly some of the picklers have special recipes, upon which, however, no definite information could be Obtained. Ifc may be stated here that pickled olives in the Seville trade are at present roughly classed as Manzanillas and Gordales, meaning thereby, respectively, very small or very large (the latter being the " queen olives"), which names have no connection with the variety of the fruit put up. Oil-pressing.— Oil- pressing is carried on in many ways, some of them yet very primitive. The first pressing is done by means of a mill some- what akin to a cider-mill ; the pulpy mass then has hot water poured on it, and is subjected to a second pressing, which in the Seville dis- trict is now usually accomplished by hydraulic machinery. The refuse from this second pressing is used as fuel, and in some cases as a cattle OLIVE CULTURE IN SPAIN. 715 food. Recently a new process has come into vogue whereby a fur- ther quantity of fatty matter is extracted, which is used for making soap. Where it is riot thought advisable to utilize the refuse in any of the above ways, it will prove a very valuable fertilizer for the olive grove. The yield of oil from a given weight of fresh fruit varies from 16 to 25 per cent, j the latter figure is not often reached even with the best oil-yielding varieties and the most improved processes. I have obtained data showing a higher percentage, but I believe that the figures ex- pi vssed the proportion of oil to a given weight of olives which, as is usual in Andalusia, had been lying heaped up on the mill floors for sev- eral weeks, thus losing moisture and weight. Extent and yield. — The area covered by olive plantations in Spain is not accurately known. The official cadastral data are notoriously mis- leading, nor do they exist in any shape whatever in relation to some provinces ; no professional economist would take them to be more than mere approximations, of which the factor of error would probably vary in every district, rendering any scheme of rectification extremely diffi- cult. Hidalgo Tablada,* who bears the reputation of being a safe guide on such matters, makes the following estimates : AJCU of olive groves hectares.. 2,099,651 Number of olive trees (80 per hectare) 167,972,080 Arrobas of oil produced (1 arrobat to 6 trees) 27,992,347 Value of annual yield (at 10 pesos perarroba) pesos.. 279,953,470 GTOBS product per hectare do... 133.33 From which product he deducts 80 percent, for cultivation, harvesting, sing, interest, and taxes, leaving net income of 26.67 pesos per hec- ( equivalent to $2.08 per acre). This extremely low average yield can only appear credible to those who, like myself, have seen nines of olive groves in a state of utter neglect, unprotected from the inroads of cuttle or game, and, in fact, left to thrive or perish without the inter- vention of human agency save at cropping time. The province of Cadiz has a perfect wilderness of just such groves, and of course the product n j ust in these cases be miserably small. The province of Seville possesses a number of carefully cultivated proves, ranking probably in that respect along with the best, and the value of olive orchards in that district some fourteen years ago ranged from a minimum of rsvn. 500 ($25) to a maximum of rsvn. 4,000 ($200) ]><>r aranzada.f The value of a good orchard does not frequently ex- ceed the latter sum at the present day, although the working expenses and income of an aranzada of that class, as given me by a planter from i!i<> Utrera district (Seville), seem to indicate a higher value. These * He wrote in 1870. t The arroba=ll£ kilograms=about 25 pounds avoirdupois. t The aranzada=37 57 ares, or 0.9284 of au acre. 716 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. figures — which in my opinion only apply to a small grove of exceptional excellence — are as follows : Pesos. Gross yield— 90 arrobas of oil, worth 675 Plowing Pesos.. 10 Pruning and cleaning do 60 Harvesting do... 75 Pressing do... 90 Interest and wear and tear of plant do... 100 335 Net 340 From which deduct taxes (about 20 per cent, of net yield) •. 68 Leaving net income .. 272 Equal to about $58 per acre. The following data, in reference to a grove of 180 aranzadas situated near Ecija (province of Seville), show what, in my opinion, may be con- sidered mean results of careful culture on a large scale : Fruit collected (in fanegas).* Fanegas. 1868 1,624 1869 1,045 1870 2,910 1871 2,784 1872 6,131 1873 2,346 1874 1,205 1875 1,317 1876 5,706 1877 820 1878 3,076 1879 920 1880 8,375 Mean annual product (equal to 16. 35 per aranzada) 2, 943 Taking the oil yield at 15 pounds per fanega of fruit, and estimating oil at 7.50 pesos per arroba (of 25 pounds), the average value of the harvest per aranzada will be 73.50 pesos (equivalent to $15.28 per acre). This estate previous to 1868 had not been carefully tended, And it is, therefore, fairer to take the mean of the last five years (1876 to 1880) as a standard, the extraordinary crop of 1880 being offset by the very small yields of 1877 and 1879. For this quinquennium the account stands thus: Total of five years' yield, 18,897 fanegas of fruit ; annual yield, 3,779 fanegas 5 annual yield per aranzada, 21 fanegas, yielding 315 pounds, equal to 12f arrobas of oil, which, at 7.50 pesos per arroba, have a value of 94.50 pesos, equivalent to $19.66 per acre. Great as is the range of estimates in relation to the results of olive culture * The fanega of olives weighs from 65 to 75 pounds, and yields from 12 to 16 pounds of oil. OLIVE CULTURE IN SPAIN. 717 for pressing oil, it would ho as nothing when compared to the vari- ations in the figures bearing upon the raising of fruit for pickling pur- poses. I do not believe that authoritative data can be obtained on the subji'ct, and I therefore think it best not to discuss the financial results of this branch of culture at all. It may be stated, however, that any fanner engaged in raising fruit for pickling would expect a larger cash income per acre than if raising for oil, both on account of the more per- is).able nature of the finished commodity and of the more contracted and more fluctuating market. Olive oil is a staple of the first irapor- t; ; m-e in this country, of which any quantity almost can always be dis- d of readily for cash. The pickled fruit is looked upon more in the light of a fancy article, the sale of which, it is true, is just now very brisk, but which some vagary of taste or fashion may any day render Jess readily salable. Exports. — The following are the latest official figures showing the exports of olive oil and of pickled olives from Spain: OLTVE OIL. Tears. Quantity. Value. Kilograms. Petos. Average of five years, 1877-1881 1 17,585,865 16,148,877 year 1881 24,625,487 22,901,702 Calendar year 1882 13,730,474 12,357,426 PICKLED OLIVES. A vt>i age of five years, 1877-1881... .... 1,574,309 788,154 Calendar year 1881 1,926,350 963,176 Calendar year 1882 1,722,945 861,472 The destination of these exports for the year 1882 is given as follows : OILS. Kilograms. Germany 956,417 Algeria 1,531,326 Belgium 63,663 France 3,123,874 Holland 53,208 Great Britain 2.189,611 r:iltar 342,390 Portugal 760,093 Sweden 442,354 2,824,990 1'orto Rico 476,161 1'n it »M! States 80,596 oo 183,771 Argentine Republic 240,399 :>.XV 192,119 Philippine Islands 101,001 Allother countries ,, 168,501 13,730,474 718 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. PICKLED OLIVES. Kilogram P. Algeria 142,508 France 58,727 Great Britain 146,868 Cuba 770,970 Porto Rico 104,625 United States . 203,163 Mexico 31,563 Argentine Republic 141, 016 Uruguay 33,797 Venezuela 17,851 Philippine Islands 38,982 All other countries 32,875 1, 722, 945 ERNEST L. OPPENHEIM, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Cadiz, March 11, 1884. MALAGA. REPORT BY CONSUL MARSTON. Varieties. — The name of the best variety for pickled olives is the " Mansanilla;'; the best varieties for olive oil are the " Picudo " and " Ojiblanco." Other choice varieties worthy of culture and for profit are, for eating, " Mansanilla," the largest of which are called the u Queen olive." Jit Malaga for oil the best is the " Picudo ;" in Cordova, the " Ojiblanco." The trees which produce the above are grown in the provinces of Malaga, Granada, Cordova, Jaen, and Seville. Situation. — Distances from the sea, 2 or 3 kilometers ; almost any elevation above sea-level; the more sun the better. The olive tree will grow almost any where, but best on level land; white subsoil is best. Climatic influences. — Temperature 45°, 90°, and 78° Fahr. No rain fall record to be had here. I Trees and fruit require as much rain as possible. Irrigation. — No irrigation for olive trees. Cultivation. — The land is cultivated three times each year, during winter and spring. Pruning. — Every three years — one-third of the orchard each year. Picking.— For pickling, green ; for oil, when ripe. Pickling. — To pickle olives the following process is followed in this province. Put the olives, when green and just before they ripen, in fresh water for, say, fifteen or twenty days, changing the water every OLIVES IN MALAGA. 719 two or three days during the interval ; at the end of that time they then make a brinw of suit ami water, and iu order to prove the suffi- ciency of salt they place a fresh egg in the brine ; if the egg floats on ttfe surface, the condition of the brine is good, and they then submerge the olives in such quantities that they will all be covered. They then make a kind of lattice- work of bamboo canes, the canes being split in two parts and fastened together, and these are, when arranged, placed on the surface of the water to keep the olives from floating to the top. The olives are then allowed to remain in this brine for at least twenty- five or thirty days before they are ready for use, or longer if they are not required for sale and shipment. After being taken out of the brine, in order to please the taste of the Spanish, people, they are frequently seasoned according to taste of those who are going eat them, by adding garlic, laurel leaves, thyme, or other herbs. Oil. — The olives intended for making oil, after gathering are placed in small compartments under cover, from which place they are taken to the mill to be ground. These mills in the country are of the most prim- itive kind, their capacity being about 25, 40, to 100 fanegas per diem. From the mill where they are ground the paste that remains is put into esparto mats or bags and then placed in presses of different kinds, hy- draulic and those more ancient with the old-fashioned wooden screw, which extract through pressure all the oil, and from these presses the oil runs through little gutters into a tub or receptacle of large propor- tions. They then pour in boiling water, which separates the oil from the water contained and extracted from the olives themselves. The oil is allowed to remain at least one month, in order to settle before being drawn off for market, but the longer it remains in the tub or vat the clearer it becomes. Oil is always moved from country to city in goat-skins (prepared and made for the purpose) by mules and donkeys. Maturity. — Trees commence fruiting at eight or ten years. Yield.— There is great diversity of opinions upon this subject — de- pends upon size and age of tree ; I can find no one who will venture an opinion. Planting. — The trees are planted 12 yards apart, and propagated by planting branches. Insect pests. — There are none. H. C. MARSTON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Malaga, December G, 1889. 720 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. MALAGA. REPORT BY CONSUL MAE8TON. * [Republished from Consular Reports No. 41|] Varieties. — The province of Malaga produces but few olives, Cordoba and Seville being the localities most favorable to their growth. I have, however, obtained all the information possible at Malaga upon the subject of olives, viz : There are two. kinds of olive trees which grow near Malaga, but not to any great extent. The " verdialis w proudces the olives used for making oil, while the olives from a tree called the u manzanilla" are used for eating purposes. Olive trees begin to yield at ten years, and at the age of fifteen years they are in their prime, and live for hun- dreds of years. The " queen olive of commerce w is a splendid variety, and is pro- duced in Cordoba and Seville, but not in the province of Malaga. Cultivation. — The process of cultivation is plowing the ground, except in the immediate neighborhood of the tree, where the ground is loos- ened and broken by a hoe. Maturity. — The older the olive tree the more it produces. Yield. — I can get no estimate in this province as to the average yield per acre. It is estimated here that trees of fifty years old may produce from 200 to 400 pounds of olives, according to the richness of the land and the care taken in the cultivation. Every 100 pounds of olives is said to produce 25 pounds of oil. Planting. — The trees are usually planted about 12 yards apart. Fielding. — Olives for table use are put in very salt water, and, with the addition of certain herbs and pimento, etc., remain until they are fit for eating. The olives for making oil are ground into a kind of pulp, and with the use of a press the oil is extracted. Situation. — Hill-sides. Olive trees do not grow to any extent near the sea-coast on account of the sea winds, which are injurious. Soil. — Any soil will answer for the growth and production of olives. They require 110 water except that produced by rain. Rain-fall. — The annual rain-fall in Malaga for the four years ending 1883 was follows : Inches. 1880 , 23.80 1881 30.73 1882 16.33 1883 17.05 Average rain for four years, 21.98 inches. Olive oil. — It is very difficult, if not impossible, to determine the average production of olive oil in Spain, for there are no statistics; nevertheless 40,000,000 to 45,000,000 arrobas may be considered an average crop, of which only about 5,000,000 arrobas are exported, the OLIVES IN MALAGA AND TURKEY. 721 remainder b 1 in Spain. The principal cities from which oil is exported are : Malaga, Sevilla, Valencia, and Barcelona, the last two, however, only in a limited quantity. The crop of 1882-7S3 in Andalusia is considered a good one regarding quantity as well as quality. According to private notes, about 1,426,000 arrobas were brought into Malaga by railway from July 1, 1882, up to May 31, 1883, of which about 1,012,000 arrobas were again exported. There was on the 31st of May, 1883, some 414,000 arrobas as stock on hand in Malaga. The largest exports were made to the following countries, viz : Ger- many, 386,400 arrobas ; England, 276,000 arrobas ; France, 156,400 ar- robas ; United States and South America, 55,200 arrobas. It is not possible to give an accurate estimate of the quantity of oil entering Malaga by beasts of burden, the largest part of which is con- sumed in the town (the daily consumption being about 500 arrobas) ; thus some 138,000 arrobas may have been brought into Malaga during the eleven months preceding May 31, 1883, forming a total (with the above-mentioned 1,426,000 arrobas) of 1,564,000 arrobas. Prices during the said period ruled from 30 to 35 reals vellon per arroba in store, the market having been depressed since the end of March, 1883. H. C. MARSTON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Malaga, March 28, 1884. TURKEY. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL HEAP, OF CONSTANTINOPLE. [Republiahed from Consular Reports, No. 41$.] Varieties. — Through cultivation an olive slip becomes in twenty to t \\en ty-five years a tree of from twenty to forty feet in height. The kind known in the Levant as the " thafnoyah " produces the fruit best suited for the table, and it is generally grafted^- When grafted they give fruit in three or four years, but when planted in slips they seldom bear fruit in less than fifteen years, and the best results are not obtained until they have reached the age of from twenty to twenty-five years. Other descriptions are grown more especially with a view to the manufact- ure of oil for exportation and domestic consumption. Cultivation. — As a rule the olives grown in this country receive little cultivation after the young trees reach maturity. At the end of autumn rly in winter a trench of 2 to 3 feet in diameter and from 18 to 27 inches in depth is dug round each young tree and filled with animal manure more or less rich according to the age and strength of the tree. The manure is well covered with soil so as to prevent its being disturbed 722 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. and to keep it as long as possible in the position best fitted to feed the roots of the tree. The ground between the trees is generally neglected. The " queen olive of commerce n is almost unknown here. It is the pick of the largest and finest fruits produced by the best olive trees of Spain. Maturity. — The olive tree generally comes into full bearing about its twenty-fifth year when it has been grown from slips ; but when grafted it yields abundantly between its eighth and twelfth year. In both cases it continues to produce largely every alternate year for about fifty or sixty years, and if cultivated as mentioned above it will continue to yield fruit, though less largely, up to the age of one hun- dred years. Yield. — Under ordinary circumstances a young healthy tree that has reached maturity will produce in a u poor" year about 82J pounds, and with careful cultivation the same tree will yield in a " good " year double that quantity. The trees vary in yield every alternate year. An acre will contain 120 trees, and each tree will yield an average of about 100 pounds of fruit ; the produce of the acre will therefore be about 12,000 pounds. As it takes about 60 pounds of fruit to produce 1 gallon of oil, the yield of the acre will be 200 gallons. In Smyrna, etc., a few new mills have been constructed to be worked by steam, but elsewhere the mills continue to be worked on the old sys- tem, notwithstanding the urgent necessity of substituting improved ma- chinery. Planting.— The trees are generally planted in rows at about 20 feet apart, but in some places they are grown much closer, especially on the steep slopes of hills. In the islands of the Archipelago, where the land is often broken and irregular, they are planted in places where the soil is so arid and barren that it will hardly grow anything else. Picking. — When olives are intended for pickling a small portion is plucked while green to be pickled in that state ; but the larger portion of the fruit intended for preserving is gathered when it has fully ripened and has turned black. It is preferred in this state by those who relish the oily flavor, and there is a large consumption of black pickled olives in Turkey. * Oil of a superior quality, but small in quantity, is extracted in some districts from green olives that have been plucked or have fallen from the trees ; but as a rule olives specially intended for producing oil are picked only when they have become quite ripe and black. It is chiefly from the seed-vessel that olive oil is obtained, and not from the seed, contrary to the general rule of the vegetable kingdom. J'icJcling. — To preserve black olives for the table, the fruit is packed in casks or boxes with a layer of common salt three-quarters of an inch thick at the bottom. On this is laid a layer of olives about two and a half to three inches in depth, upon which a light covering of salt ig OLIVES JN TURKEY. 723 sprinkled, and so on until the cask or box is filled, the upper la-yrr of salt being deeper than the others except the lower one. The staves of the cask are left loosely bound to allow the bitter water from the olives to drain off. When they are drained the hoops are tightened. To preserve green olives for the table, the fruit, after having been washed, is packed in casks in its natural state. The casks have a small hole, bored in the bottom to allow the water to run off slowly. They are tilled with olives to about 3 inches of the top, and the cask is then iilled to the brim with fresh water once in twenty-four hours, until the bitter taste of the fruit has all but passed off. The hole in the bottom is then plugged, an aromatized pickle is poured on the fruit, and after the pickle has taken effect a little oil is added to soften the olives and reduce any bitterness that may remain in excess of what is required to give them piquancy or an agreeable savoriness. Extraction of olive oil. — In the interior the method practiced to extract oil from olives is probably the same as was employed in the earliest times. The fruit is collected in a large bin near the mill where the cnishiiig is done. The mill is simply a large, circular, shallow tank with an upright beam in the center, which runs through a large stone, and serves as the pivot around which the stone revolves. A horse har- nessed to a horizontal pole attached to the stone sets it slowly and la- boriously in motion. An improved apparatus consists of two stones attached to the horizontal pole and are dragged around with it. These machines resemble the Mexican arrastra for crushing quartz. The one last mentioned, is the most effective of the two, as the stones describe a larger circle, but it requires greater power. The olives are crushed, but the oil is not expressed. When a sufficient quantity of the fruit has been thrown into the tank, the machine is set in motion, and a man precedes the horse with a pole armed with iron to push the olives under the stones. After a few rounds a couple of gallons of water at boiling heat are poured in to assist the action of the stones, and more is added as required, until the mass acquires the consistency of a thick paste. The mass is now put into a large jar and conveyed to the press, where it is kneaded with more hot water into a thinner paste, and as often as ii is emptied into a shallow dish it is emptied into a square cloth of the same coarse material of which the cloaks of the country people are made, which will bear the greatest power of the press without bursting. A man forms the paste into a square flat mass, folds the cloth neatly over it, and ties it with a string attached to each corner, and places it in the press to the number of sixteen or seventeen cloths. The press is turned down by means of a hand-lever, and when more power is required a rope is carried from the lever to an upright rotary beam at some dis- tance, which two men turn round with bars rapidly. The oil and water expressed run into a trough before the pres>s, which though rudely hewn from a log of wood is constructed on principles showing a knowledge of the relative specific gravity of oil and water. 724 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The trough is divided in to two parts longitudinally by a partition, which comes up to about 2 inches below the level of its sides, so that when the oil and water run in together on one side of the partition, the oil, coming to the surface, floats over to the other side, while the water is conveyed away by a pipe placed at the level at which it is desired to maintain the water within the trough. After the press has been screwed down as far as it will go, it is loosened and hot water is poured upon the pile to wash off any oil that may remain on the cloths, and they are kneaded without being unfolded. More boiling water is poured upon each package, and they are again placed in the press, to be again removed and undergo for a third time the same process, until no oil remains. The oil comes out a light-green color, and is poured into a large jar near the press whence, after depositing any water or dirt it may have, it is poured into skins. It is next emptied into large earthenware jars, 4 or 5 feet in height, where it remains for at least two months, till ail impurities are deposited. Olive oil is refined by agitating it with a saturated solution of caustic soda which renders the whole soapy ; but after a time the oil precipi- tates a saponaceous deposit, and the remainder becomes quite clear and pure and is then poured off. It is now of a yellowish color, with a slight odor and a milder taste. The bark of the olive tree has been used ex- tensively by the French instead of cinchona, and large quantities of excellent soap are made from the refuse of the olive oil. Situation. — The best results are obtained on the sides of lower hills, when the land is of a suitable nature ; but very good crops are obtained from trees growing on the higher table-lands. Soil. — Although the olive tree will grow on almost any kind of ground where it can obtain nourishment, it thrives best in a rich argillaceous soil, which is neither too damp nor too dry. It grows in the greatest perfection in the fine rich clays which, in many parts of the Levant, cover the hill-sides. Although it is not the most suitable situation for them, olive orchards are sometimes planted near to the sea-coast, and in such placets may be frequently seen extending to within a few yards of the sea-shore. In these situations they often suffer from exposure to cold winds, a$id are not so healthy. Irrigation. — When the plants and trees are young they are sometimes watered in a rude fashion, but there is no system of artificial irrigation in olive culture. Yield. — Around Smyrna, in Oandia, Ohio, and other islands of the Archipelago, more time and labor are bestowed on the cultivation of the olive than it receives elsewhere in Turkey. However, as even there, in certain districts, the natives attach unequal or secondary importance to this culture, very considerable differences are to be found in the cost of cultivation as well as the yield of this crop. Owing to these and OLIVES IN CKETK. 725 other reasons, especially the absence of clear and regular accounts among the native farmers, it is impossible to give a correct statement of the yield, proceeds, and cost of cultivation per annum of an acre planted iii olives. L'u iti-f all. — The annual rain-fall in this district during the last four years was: Inches. hi is*) 28.33 In 1>HI 25.76 In 1882 20.42 In 1883... 1. - 29.55 In the three years first mentioned the annual rain-fall was compara- tively light, and it was only in 1883 that it reached the average of the ten years from 1870 to 1879, inclusive. C. H. HEAP, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE GENERAL, Constantinople, April 10, 1884. CRETE. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL HEAP, OF CONSTANTINOPLE. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 41^.] The island of Crete (Candia) is the most important olive oil-produc- ing district in Turkey. The olive harvest for the season 1883-'84, just ended, is considered unusually small and of poor quality. It only aug- mented by 742,500 gallons the stock of oil remaining from 1882-'83 in the hands of merchants and with the cultivators. This result was fore- seen in consequence of the exceptionally fine crop of 1882-783, which exceeded the expectation of the most hopeful growers. Never, in fact, had Crete been known to produce so abundant a crop of olives or one of such good quality. The following returns show the difference between the last and the preceding crop: District. 1882-'83. 1883-84. Khandia GaUong. 4, 125, 000 Gallons. 220, 000 ('•unit'* 6 875 000 412 500 2,750 000 110,000 13, 750, 000 742,500 726 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Of the crop of 1882-'83 there were exported to— Gallons. England - 3,300.000 Russia 1,100,000 Austria 750,000 Germany 275,000 Turkey 577,000 Egypt 412,500 tf.vria 137,500 Anatolia 357,500 Barbary 192,500 Other places 75,000 7, 177, 500 Owing to the excellent quality and the low price of the oil produced in France that season, there was almost none exported to that country. The local consumption of Crete amounted to 3,272,500 gallons, and the soap works on the island absorbed about 2,200,000 gallons. Considera- ble stock remains on the island. The sellers who know that a good crop is always followed by a bad one prefer to hold their oils in the expecta- tion of a rise in prices, which can not fail to come. At the commence- ment of the olive harvest, oil was selling at $1.39 to $1.41 the 2^ gallons, while on the 1st of March last it was quoted at $1.67. In London the oil is selling at this date at $174.66 per ton weight, gross. G. H. HEAP, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Constantinople, April 10, 1884. DARDANELLES. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT CALVERT. Varieties. — The best varieties are the Eopadhes. There are a lew other varieties, but they are little cultivated. Trees. — The trees are grown all over the district, but principally in the Gulf of Adramytium, and from sea edge to some miles inland, at an elevation from sea-level, say, to 1,000 feet. t Situation and soil. — Wild olive trees generally affect sunny exposure. All situations but rocky sheltered valleys give the best fruit and most oil ; clay and light soils, with rock or deep subsoil. Temperature. — Earely above 90° or below 5° Fahrenheit. Rain-fall. — Thirty inches per annum. The olive crop is uncertain and does not appear to be much influenced by greater or less fall of rain. Fertilizers. — Not used except when new plantations are made. Water, if required, is applied by hand. Cultivation. — When practicable the ground is plowed between the trees and grain crops raised ; more frequently in rocky situations. The OLIVES IN CRETE. 727 trees are surrounded by loose stone walls which are filled in with soil. Goat or sheep manure is sometimes applied. Pruning. — Is limited to clearing out branches when too close — in the spring. Picking and curing. — Picking commences from September up to No- vember for green olives for pickling ; from November to February for black olives and for oil ; pickled with salt for olives and for oil. The olives are crushed in a revolving stone mill, the pulp is put in goafs- hair bags and saturated with boiling water ; pressure, hand or power, is applied. The liquid runs off, the oil floats, and is collected fit for the market. The oil-cake is reset two or three times and repressed, but the oil is of an inferior quality. A still further quantity of oil can be extracted by chemical appliances, but it is fit only for making soap. Maturity. — Four to five years. The life of the olive tree is very uncer- tain. There are trees with a girth from 12 to 15 feet and more, said to be over a thousand years old. Planting and propagating. — Trees are planted from 20 feet in poor to 40 apart in rich soil, and propagated most frequently by planting wild trees, by separation of cultivated trees, or by off- shoots. In planting, from February to May, the steins of the trees, wild or cultivated, are cut down to 4 to 5 feet. They are taken with the massive root, the wild trees being grafted before or after removal ; a hole is dug and water poured in, a portion of fine soil is added, and the whole worked to a semi-fluid state. The tree is then plunged in and set, the rest of the loose soil is drawn around the tree, but not trodden down till the following day. Insect pests. — A worm attacks the fruit when ripening, in Thessaly, where the variety of olive is much larger in size. It does not exist here. The olive decays when the maggot grows and falls off the tree. FRANK CALVERT, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Dardanelles, February 11, 1890. 156A 22 III. FIGS. 729 CONTINENT OF AFRICA. MOROCCO. REPORT BY CONSUL MATHEWS, OF TANGIER. [Republiahed from Consular Reports, No. 4H.] Varieties. — There are various kinds of figs — white, red, and black — which are dried for commercial purposes. Of the white variety there is the White Burgasot, of excellent flavor both fresh as well as dry. It does not produce the early large fig, but only second season figs. The Marsellaise or Athens fig. — Fruit very sweet and small, round in shape j it ripens in August, and is the variety most preferred for dry- ing. TJie Blanquette fig. — A middling variety, which resists cold weather better than any other varieties, and can prosper north of the regions of the olive ; is also of second season, and is preferred while ripe before drying. Of the red varieties the best for drying are the following : The Date fig, the most preferred for drying purposes ; it ripens in August. The Jerusalem fig matures in September, very fine and large. The Rose Blanche, very large, and is only used for drying. Sultana or Tunisian, a large, choice variety similar to the Smyrna. There are numerous varieties of black figs, bearing a different name in the various countries where they are grown. Morocco produces a large variety of most delicious figs. They are called by the Arabs " Kermuse" in general, although each variety has its name. There are figs of various colors, some of which are white, yel- low, black, purple, and others green. The Jews extract" aguadiente," an ardent spirit, from figs. In Spain they prepare a savory wine from which they extract spirits which they flavor and term " anisette." Suffren has given a description and figure of three hundred and sixty varieties of figs cultivated in Spain, France, and Italy. Most of the fig trees yield two crops during the year : the first, producing the large fig, matures in June, and the second in August, September, and October. The fig tree grows on any soil, provided it is free of stagnant water re- tained on the surface over the roots. It prefers a light loam of a cal- careus nature ; should this retain its moisture the trees we uld grow taller ; in dry soils the fruit is smaller. 731 732 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Planting and propagating. — The fig is propagated from seed, shoots, suckers, slips, stakes, layers, and by grafting. From seed is only prac- ticed by some to discover new varieties. In raising from slips or stakes, these should be chosen from vigorous branches of the shoots of the pre- vious year, and about 26 inches in length. The proper time is either in February or November. A hole is opened about 2J feet deep ; good manure and a little lime should be well mixed with the soil which is dug out of the hole. The slip or branch is then laid horizontally, leav- ing out the last eye perpendicularly, which on shooting out will form the tree. Budding or grafting is seldom practiced in fig trees. The distance between trees should be 16 feet. During the heat of summer of the first two years the young plants should be watered. Fertilizing. — Manuring the trees will greatly increase their crops. They require no pruning, only removing dry branches and new shoots from the trunk. When the tree obtains age it requires no cultivation. It is well to cover with straw the branches of the trees while from one to three years old, in the winter in cold climates, to protect the eyes from frost, after which the trees become hardier as advancing in age. There are male and female trees ; the male is the wild or goat fig. Male and female fig. — There should be amongst the fig orchards some of the masculine species, as those trees producing the small vari- ety of fig and which yield so abundantly require the proximity of the male sort to come to full maturity and size, otherwise the fruit drops before coming to maturity. In the absence of male trees in an orchard where these varieties are growing the male figs, which are very small and unfit to eat, are brought and hung to the branches of the feminines. The wild fig produces a multitude of small insects of the genus Cynips, which settling on the fruits of the cultivated trees convey the pollen with which they are infected. This is a practice from time immemorial. Maturity. — The fig trees commence to yield fruit when they are three years old, and come into full bearing when they are twenty years of age. From one hectare of land the yield generally is about 4,000 kilo- grams of dry figs, at value of $5 per 100 kilograms ; total, $200. Yield. — As an example of the great yield of the fig-tree, I may cite some trees at San Pedro del Pinatar, Spain, which produced ^ach as much as $12 of early figs, besides 150 pounds of dried sold for $3, and 7 quintals of second-size figs sold for $9.50, which make the yield of each of these trees in full bearing annually to the amount of $20.50. Curing the fig. — The fruit must be gathered when quite ripe, when they commence to dry on the tree, on a clear sunny day, after the dew has d issipated. They are exposed to the sun in lattice work made of canes or slips of boards, or in rough straw mats placed from the ground, allowing, if possible, the air to circulate under. The figs after a few days are pressed one by one into shape, to facilitate their curing. After sunset the fruit is removed to a dry and well- ventilated place for the PIGS IN MOROCCO. 733 night. This operation is followed until the figs are perfectly cured. When they are selected, the various sizes are spread on. sheets for a few days in a ventilated place, the windows of which must be closed when the atmosphere is damp ; and lastly the figs are pressed down- wards on a table to give them a round shape ; then they are packed in boxes lined with paper. The boxes must be kept in a dry and ventilated room. The common figs are packed and pressed in mats. FELIX A. MATHEWS, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Tangier, April 2, 1884. CONTINENT OF AMERICA. MEXICO. LA PAZ. REPORT BY CONSUL VIOSOA. The Spanish or Moorish black fig is the best for preservation and for palate taste, and are very juicy once dry. The best varieties for eating when ripe are the Bordeaux and Smyrna white fig, but the early black Moorish (breva) is superior. Dry figs are an important export industry in this country, and their growth is found in every watering place or valley in this country. Trees are generally planted in limish and sandy soil, and whenever the soil is too rich ashes of any kind mixed in the soil is its best fertilizer. Never use manure or guano ; it is the worst enemy of the fig-tree : the fruit becomes tasteless and besides attracts the insect pest called concMta. (turtle shell). As to watering fig-trees : While young or the first and second year after planting are watered every third day ; during the rainy season don't require any irrigation. In pruning time, which is in October, the tree is simply cleaned out of dry branches or young ground-root shoots. Picking and drying takes place in May and June, before the first rain falls. Early figs in April and part of May. In this country the fruit is simply spread on the top of the house's roof or on mats, with full sun exposure all day, and at midnight it is taken in the houses. JAMES VIOSCA, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, La Paz, December 26, 1889. I ECUADOR. REPORT BY CONSUL BEAOH, OF GUAYAQUIL. [Republisbed from Consular Reports No. 41^.] The only kind of fig grown in Ecuador is the purple. Though the fruit does well it is grown only in a small way. The trees should be subjected to treatment similar to that of the orange and lemon, in which respect the requirement is lived up to in Ecuador, 734 FIGS IN VENEZUELA AND BERMUDA. 735 all being neglected. A tree in full bearing will yield about 100 pounds of fruit. None of tbe fruit is dried in Ecuador. All that is grown is consumed fresh or made into sweetmeats. HORATIO N. BEACH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Guayaquil, February 26, 1884. VENEZUELA. LAGUAYRA. REPORT BY CONSUL BIRD, OF LAGUAYRA. The fig is rarely met with here, although the soil and climate seem well adapted to its culture. One may occasionally see a fig tree, planted, it would seem, more for ornament or shade than for its fruit, notwithstanding the fact that the tree yields two or three crops per year. WINFIELD S. BIRD, , Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Layuayra,) November 29, 1889. WEST INDIES. BERMUDA. REPORT BY CONSUL BECKWITH, OF HAMILTON. Figs are grown on the island, but the same insect which has destroyed all the peaches has attacked the figs, also the guavas, so in a short time these fruits, like the peach, will be a dead letter, for scarcely any- thing is done to destroy the insect, and as we have no winter they in- crease the whole year, the fruit falling on the ground and being allowed to rot there. At one time olive plants were imported here by the coun- try, but no care was given thein. They have since dwindled away, only a few trees here and there remaining, but the fruit is put to no use. A little more energy and enterprise are needed in the island to advance various branches of agriculture and fruit-culture which at present bring no profit. HENRY W. BECKWITH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Hamilton, November 29, 1889. 736 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. TRINIDAD. J. H. Hart, Government botanist, to Consul Sawyer. Only here and there a plant exists which ripens fruit fairly, but the produce is carried off when nearly mature by the frugiverous bats. CUBA. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL WILLIAMS, OF HAVANA. Figs grow here, but their cultivation is limited to private gardens, The trees do not obtain the size observed in the gardens of Norfolk, Ya., Charleston, S. 0., Savannah, Ga., or New Orleans, La. Neither does the fruit seem to be equal in flavor to that grown in those places. It is rarely ever seen for sale in the market houses, fresh from the trees. Dried figs in considerable quantities are imported from Malaga, Spain, where great attention is given to their cultivation. EAMON O. WILLIAMS, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Havana, November 24, 1889. GUADELUPE. The few fig-trees found in the island are always sickly and covered with aphis or lice and ants. ST. .FELIX ELARDEAN, Director of Botanical Garden at Basse-terre, to Consul Bartlett. CONTINENT OF ASIA. ASIA MINOR. REPORT BY CONSUL EMMETT, OF SMYRNA. INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. There are several climatic influences which can not be foreseen or guarded against and yet have great effect upon the success of the crop, as, for instance, a greater rain-fall than the average tends to darken the fruit when ripe. A high wind blowing for several days from the north while the fruit is maturing has the tendency to make the stems wither and fruit fall prematurely, etc. There are as many uncertainties and surmises about the fig crop of Smyrna before gathering as there are in reference to the peach crop in the United States. As regards the cuttings which the honorable Secretary suggests m^ obtaining, I beg to say that I am informed that it is too late this season to take the same with any chance of their growing when they arrive in the United States. Some provision for defraying the expenses and further directions as to quantity and to whom to be sent would be requisite before making a shipment of cuttings. In 1886 a party from California, apparently well posted, came here in the summer, went to the fig district, and inspected the different varie- ties ; he made his selection and marked the trees from which he desired cuttings. When the crop was gathered he obtained 30,000 female and 3,000 cuttings from male trees, packed and shipped the same about the end of October. I have been informed that great success rewarded his enterprise. A box of figs grown and packed in California reached here this autumn and was inspected and universally praised by many dealers. In some instances it was impossible to persuade the parties that said figs were grown outside of the Aidin district ; in fact some went so far as to desig- nate the orchard. Those who grasped the full importance of this Ameri- can enterprise predicted that Turkey's supremacy in the fig trade was waning. Some console themselves with the opinion that the American fig will not continue to be good ; as the trees (grown from Smyrna cut- tings) grow older the fruit will have thick skins and become tough ; in fact become native American figs. 737 738 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. This deterioration of the fruit is very common here and has been well known for a long time. The transplanting of trees from their own orchard, even for a short distance, makes them give fruit of entirely a different flavor and nature. It has been suggested to me that if some grower will grow seedlings from the fruit of young trees grown from Smyrna cuttings, the chances of American fig-growers will be greatly enhanced, and, perhaps, in time eclipse one of the staple articles of this country. Varieties. — The best variety for drying and packing is known under the name of Lop. There are two kinds of figs for table use when ripe, but which will not bear drying and packing, viz, Zardajik and Cheker Inzir. Situation. — The trees that produce the varieties above named are grown in the Aidin district. Distance from sea, 30 to 100 miles; elevation above sea-level, 250 to 500 feet. Much exposure to sun is required. The trees thrive in all descriptions of land, provided they should be protected against the north wind. Soil. — Rich black vegetable mold is best. Climatic influences. — A temperate climate is the main thing; the ther- mometer should never fall below the freezing point during winter ; frost during spring kills the trees. Temperature. — Minimum, 40° ; maximum, 110° ; average, 80° Fahren- heit. Rain-fall. — Yearly average, 24 inches. Kain during winter strength- ens the trees ; during summer it injures the crop. Irrigation. — Good fig orchards are never irrigated; newly-planted young trees need watering during the first two years of their growth. Cultivation. — Fig orchards are ploughed four or five times a year, be- ginning from November. Fertilizers. — Manure is made use of when the soil is poor. Pruning. — When the trees grow old they need pruning during winter. Picking and curing. — When perfectly ripe the fruit falls by itself. If not quite dry it is spread in the sun. There is no fixed time for pick ing, as the fruit when ripe falls. The fruit is gathered from the ground and put in black hair%)ags ; it is then loaded on camels and carried to tha nearest railroad station, put in the freight-cars, and conveyed to Smyrna ; loaded again on camels, it finds its way to the fig market, whence it is sent to the packing houses to undergo the final process of sorting, shaping (flattening out or squaring), and putting in boxes or bags, and is then fit for shipment abroad. No chemical solution is employed ; the packers wet their hands with plain sea- water, which hastens considerably the sugaring of the figs. Planting and propagating. — Distance planted apart, 25 feet. The trees propagated by cuttings. There are small and large orchards. FIGS IN PALESTINE. 739 Maturity. — The trees remain fruitful from eighty to one hundred years and even longer. Insect pests. — A kind of bug, known under the name " Basra," is very injurious to the fruit, which it covers with dark yellow and black spots. No one knows how to free the trees and fruit of this pest. The only beneficial insect is the one which comes out of the male fruit and impregnates the female figs, and the ants which feed on the bug called "Basra." Securing cuttings. — Unovassi cuttings are the best and should be gath- ered by some one having a good knowledge of the trees. W. O. EMMETT, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, January 15, 1890. PALESTINE. REPORT BY CONSUL GILLMAN. OF JERUSALEM. Varieties. — There is no exportation of the figs grown in Palestine, and scarcely any care is given to the cultivation of the trees. There are said to be as many as twelve varieties of the fig in this country, and, with few exceptions, they are all good for eating. .The best known and more easily distinguished varieties are as follows : (1) The large green fig, early in fruiting, known as dafouri. (2) Small green, later fig, called ghoudri (greenish). (3) Large purple fig named gharroubi (carob, from its resemblance to the color of the pod of the carob). (4) Small purple fig, named also gharroubi. (5) Yellow fig, white inside, known as biadi (white). (6) Yellow fig, crimson inside, called karawi (crimson), resembling the Smyrna fig of commerce. (7) Black fig, named swadi (black). While, as already mentioned, all these are good for eating in the fresh state, Nos. 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 are the best for this purpose. Equally, though, all the varieties are used for drying. Nos. 5, 6, and 7 are the most suitable for the purpose. Situation. — The trees flourish all over Palestine, from the sea-coast, up into the hill country, at an elevation of 3,000 feet or more. They generally have a full exposure to the sun, but seem to do well in all situations. They frequently attain an enormous size, even on the most rocky hill-sides ; and whether the land is hilly, rolling, or level, appears to make no great difference to them. The soil is generally clay, or sand and clay mixed, with clay subsoil. Climate. — At Jaffa and on the plains the minimum temperature is 32° Fahr., the maximum reaching 107° Fahr. ; the average temperature in the day-time being about 70J°, and at night, 55J° Fahr. In the mount- 740 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. ains It is considerably colder ; though, in general, there are only a few days in January in which it freezes. The rain-fall at Jaffa has already been given. At Jerusalem the average annual fall amounts to 25 inches. The growth of the trees and fruit is favorably affected by abundant rains. Irrigation. — The trees do not require irrigation, and, except when growing in orange groves, are never watered. With systematic irri- gation and cultivation, such as received in the orange groves at Jaffa, the fruit is improved. Cultivation. — As already mentioned, but little cultivation is bestowed on the trees. At most they receive a spring and autumn plowing. Fertilizers. — Fertilizers are seldom used except when in connection with the orange or lemon trees ; and the kind preferred is generally horse manure, or the dung of the mule or camel. Pruning. — Pruning is not practiced with any system, or to any ap- preciable extent. It is considered best to spare the lower branches, and when cuttings for propagation are made they are taken from above. Picking and curing. — The fruit is picked when fully ripe. For eating, the morning is deemed the best time of day for picking ; but there is little choice observed in the matter. In general, the fig of this country is of inferior size, doubtless in consequence of being given such little attention, and being only used for home consumption. The fruit is dried by being spread in the sun, usually on the roofs of houses, or sometimes on the ground. When partially dry the fig is pressed flat in the hands. Subsequently the nearly dried fruit is strung on strings ; and it is often sold in this shape or when placed in sacks. Planting and propagating. — The distance at which the trees are planted apart varies from 6 to 10, or even 20 feet. Though the fig can be grown from seed, the usual method of propa- gation is by cuttings, or rather branches slipped off the parent tree. The size of the orchards is in general riot large, though sometimes consisting of several acres. There are only a few hundred fig-trees dispersed over the vineyards and gardens at Jaffa ; but at Bethlehem, Hebron, and around Jerusalem orchards of fair size devoted to the fig may be found. Maturity. — The tree here attains to the age of one hundred years, and with proper care and culture continues fruitful to the last. If neglected too much, it ceases to be productive ; though on attention being re- newed, it again responds with crops. The trees begin to bear at the third year, and are in full bearing when five years of age. Insect pests. — But little has been observed as to insect pests, bene- ficial insects, or the parasites of the injurious ones. The fig seems to be unusually free from such. A fig is occasionally found containing a worm, which appears to be the larva of one of the smaller moths ; but the species has not been determined. Cuttings. — The rooted cutting, or the young tree would be, in all FIGS IN SYRIA. 741 probability, the best method of procuring desirable varieties. I under- stand that many thousands of young trees have been successfully trans- ported from Smyrna to California, giving full satisfaction. HENRY GLLLMAN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Jerusalem, February 11 , 1890. SYRIA. BEIRUT AND VICINITY.* FIRST REPORT BY CONSUL BISSINQER. Varieties.— The best fig for drying is the green variety. The best va- riety for eating when ripe is the red variety with elongated stem, called 44 Buckaraty." Also a rounder red variety called " Seedany." Other varieties worthy of culture and for profit are the black variety and one which ripens in the fall. Situation. — The trees that produce the varieties above named are grown in plains and on the hills, and from the shore to a distance of 25 miles inland to an elevation of 2,500 feet. Constant exposure to the sun is needed. Hilly and rolling land with white clayey soil are the best. Irrigation. — No irrigation needed. Cultivation. — Plow the land in the spring. Fertilizing. — None put about trees, as it is injurious. Pruning. — Pruning is not practiced. Picking and curing. — The figs are picked when fully ripe in the early morning. Little curing is done in this country ; simply dried in the sun. Either whole or split ; no solution used. Planting and propagating. — Distance planted apart, about 20 to 25 feet ; propagated by slips. The orchards are small. Trees attain an age of from fifty to sixty years, and are fruitful from four years till they decay. Insects and worms are treated simply by covering the trunk of the tree with a coating of bitumen. Slips can be put into earth and conveyed from place to place. BEIRUT. Rain. — Moderate rain-fall ; about 30 to 40 inches on an average yearly, The abundance of rain is beneficial to old trees as well as to the fruit. October and November rains benefit the trees, and March and April rains benefit the fruit. * The several reports for Syria were forwarded by Consul Bissinger, being prepared from statistics supplied to him by parties in the several districts reported. 742 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Irrigation. — Irrigation is only necessary the first and second years after planting. In light soil watering is necessary twenty days after the rains are over and in heavy soil one month thereafter. Cultivation. — Flowing is necessary once or twice after the first rains in November and is then to be discontinued until the 1st of February, after which it is to be repeated four times or every fortnight, after the rains. As soon as the fruits appear no more plowing is necessary. Fertilizers. — The fertilizing substances are : A donkey load of sand around each tree once a year, about the early part of December, if the soil is red, and a small quantity of cow's, or other manure if the soil is white, i. e. clayey. This treatment increases the growth of the trees and the quantity of the fruit. , Pruning. — Pruning is effected at the end of January by removing the weak and dead branches. To prune the low branches of fig-trees in- creases their growth and production. Picking. — Gathering or picking takes place when the fruit is fully ripe ; when for sale, it is effected either in the evening or before sun- rise, and if for drying, it must be after sunrise, so as to be dry from dew, which would spoil the color of dried figs. Curing. — After the figs are gathered they are split open in the morn- ing and placed in an exposed position to the sun for three days, until they contract and assume a red or yellowish tint. They are then gath- ered from the drying-floor, and after being fully flattened out are spread in equal layers in a basket until completely filled up. A heavy weight is then placed on the top of the basket. As to figs dried in a heap, they should be gathered when perfectly dry (in other words when withered on the tree), and spread as they are on the drying-floor for four or five days, at the expiration of which they are picked up and pressed flat between the fingers. This species of dry figs may also be placed in hot water for 10 minutes, then left to dry well in the air before packing up in boxes. This bathing process imparts a good color to the figs and preserves them from worms. Dry figs are never placed in any solution. Planting. — The distance between each tree should be at least 9 feet. The larger the distance the better the trees grow. Fig-trees are propagated either by suckers or shoots (which grow at the foot of the mother tree) or by slips from the trees. % (1) The way of transplanting by suckers is to dig a hole in the ground about 15 to 20 inches in diameter and depth in which to place the same, after which the soil is to be so arranged as to be on a level with the sur- rounding ground, or even a little lower, to retain the water. Watering is necessary just after planting. Some people resort to the practice of putting in the hole of the newly planted sucker a handful of barley, to serve as nourishment for the roots. A sucker planted with barley never fails to take root and to thrive. ' (2) To propagate by slips it is necessary that a hole be dug in the ground having an average length of 27 inches by 13 in depth. In this FIGS IN SYRIA. 743 hole the slip, which should be about 27 inches long, is placed obliquely, so as to leave about 2 inches of it above the ground. The planting of suckers must take place between the 1st of December and the end of January, and the planting of slips should begin with February and end with March. Watering is needed, as stated in answer 6, for the lands that had not been previously tilled and sown. As to the rich lands which had been plowed, they should be irrigated once a month or once every forty-five days. There are some large and some small fig orchards, but generally their size is limited. Fig- trees live from five to thirty years, some even longer, and produce fruit until they die off. The insects are worms produced by excess of water and manure and want of proper pruning. The way to treat them is to put only a little manure or none at all, to prune the trees well, and to make a passage for the water, so as not to allow it to gather around the trees. Birds also attack fig-trees, such as the sparrow and the becafico. A scare- crow is most always successful in frightening away these birds. No insect other than those mentioned above are known to exist. Cutting. — Either by -taking suckers which grow at the foot of the tree or cuttings 'from the tree itself. No statistics or reports are published by the Government or other- wise. ERHARD BISSINGER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Beirut, February 12, 1890. SECOND REPORT. Varieties. — The best variety for drying is the u Abyad," white inside green outside, and for eating when ripe, the " Bokraty," red inside, green outside. The "Asfoory" and "Bokraty" are also cultivated. The Smyrna district is the principal one, Syria coming next, in which fig- trees are grown. Situation.— No matter where fig-trees are planted, moderate altitude is best. Fig-trees are benefited by being exposed to the sun. Soil. — The white clayey soil is preferable. It should be manured once every three years. Climate.— Minimum, 40° Fahr.; maximum, 90° Fahr.; average, 650 Fahr. The more abundant the rains the better the trees and fruits prosper. Irrigation. — Fig trees need no irrigation. Cultivation.— After the soil gets dry it should be plowed three times during spring-time. 156A 23 744 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Fertilizers. — The soil should be manured once every three years and plowed as stated above. Pruning. — After the fruits have been gathered the dead branches only are cut away. Picking and curing. — When the fruit is ripe the morning is the best time for picking. If they are to be transported from place to place figs must be gathered before they are fully ripe and placed in boxes, but can not be sent to any distant place. When figs are to be dried they must be gathered when fully ripe, then spread on a lofty spot for from ten to fifteen days and nights. In this way they can be preserved in boxes during the whole year. Planting and propagating. — The trees are planted.about 13 feet apart and propagated by slips. The orchards are generally small. Maturity. — Fig-trees attain thirty to forty years of age and produce fruit from the fourth or fifth year. Insect pests. — There are some insects which infest the soil and invade the trunk of the tree and sometimes cause them to decay, but they do not injure the fruit. Trees so attacked are treated by introducing an iron wire into the affected holes until the insect is reached and de- stroyed. Slips. — Slips are to be secured in March. No printed matter, reports, or statistics exist or are issued by the Government. ERHARD BISSINGER, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Beirut, February 12, 1890. SIDON. Varieties. — The " green " varieties for drying are the " Bookraty " and "Abyad" for eating when ripe. Other varieties cultivated are the black and one which ripens in the fall. Situation. — Both in plains and hills ; best kinds within 30 miles of coast; best growth from 500 to 2,000 feet above sea-level; constant exposure to the sun; hilly lands the best; clayey and chalky soil the best. Climate. — Thirty degrees Fahr. to 90° Fahr. ; rain -fall about 30 inches, on an average, annually ; an abundance of rain is beneficial. Irrigation. — Never irrigated at all. Cultivation. — Spring ploughing. Fertilizers. — None applied. Figs become wormy in rich earth. Pruning. — Dead branches only are removed. Picking. — When ripe, and in the morning. Curing. — Dried in suix only. No solution of any kind used. FIGS IN SYRIA. 745 Planting and propagating. — The trees are 32 to 35 feet apart ; propa- gated by slips ; the orchards are generally small. Maturity. — The trees attain to about fifty years and bear from four years till they die. Insect pests. — Principally worms. The remedy is to cover the trunk of the tree with a coating of bitumen. Cuttings. — Cuttings are secured either by suckers which grow at the foot of tree or cuttings from the tree itself. TRIPOLI. Varieties. — The best variety for drying is the "Bayadi" (white inside); the best variety for eating is the uBookraty ;" the other varieties known in this country are the "Bookraty," the "Bayadi," the u Asfoory," the " As wad," the " Haminary," and the u Shataway." Situation. — Fig trees grow in the plains as well as in the mountains ; the more they are exposed to the sun the better they prosper ; they are found in rolling and level land, which is alike adapted for their growth. It is customary in this country to plant fig-trees in either white clayey soil or in a blackish soil (the latter not being good for other kinds of trees). In red soil the fig-trees grow still better, but the taste of the fruit is less delicious than if grown in a white or blackish soil. Climate. — Temperature varies from 30° Fahr. to 90° Fahr. ; average, 60° Fahr.; rain-fall averages 26 to 40 inches per annum, according to locality. Irrigation. — Most of the fig-trees in this country are found in non-irri- gated lands. The fruit of irrigated fig-trees are affected by worms and liable to rot. 0M&tttt$km.-~Landfi upon which fig-trees are planted should be plowed three times in the spring. Fertilizers. — Manure is the fertilizer known, but it is not used for fig- trees, although it increases their production, for the reason that it causes the fruit to be invaded by worms and to rot. Pruning. — Dead branches only need to be removed. Picking. — Figs for drying are picked when fully ripe any time in the course of a sunny day, so as to be well dried by the rays of the sun and thus prevent their contracting a sour taste. Curing. — Figs, after being gathered, are spread in the sun for from ten to fifteen days. When they become dry they are placed in a basket and plunged for two minutes in a large copper kettle full of boiling water, in which a small quantity of the fennel plant has been deposited to impart a nice aroma to the figs. After this process of " bathing," the figs are dried again and then stored away. Figs are gathered and dried as they ripen, during August, September, and October. 746 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Planting and propagating. --"Distance planted apart, 12 to 15 feet, according to the quality of the soil. Fig-trees are propagated by cut- tings from the branch of a large tree having three or four sprays, which is to be placed in a hole dug for the purpose, then covered with earth, allowing one of the sprays only to project, at a height of about 2 inches above ground. This should take place in the spring, i. e., from the beginning of March to the end of April. Orchards are generally small. Maturity. — The age of fig-trees depends on the quality of the soil and the care bestowed upon them. If good care is taken of a fig-tree it lives up to one hundred years. Disease. — The branches of fig-trees are sometimes liable to a disease that manifests itself in the shape of slight swellings called snails. The remedy adopted is to make small cuts in the tree, which causes the dis- ease to subside. Cuttings. — No plantations of young fig-trees exist in this country. The way to plant fig-trees is to secure cuttings from large trees and plant them as stated above. ERHARD BISSINGER, Consult, UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Beirut, February 12, 1890. INDIA. REPORT PREPARED FOR VICE-CONSUL BODE, OF BOMBAY, BY MR. O.MARSHALL WORDROW, LECTURER ON BOTANY AND AGRICULTURE AT THE COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, POONAH. Varieties. — Figs are not dried in India to any considerable extent, as the local consumption absorbs the supply. The retail price of ripe figs is about 2 annas per pound (say 6 cents) at Poonah, within 14 miles of extensive gardens. Varieties of figs are not named in India except with the name of the village they are grown at, and such a name is not dis- tinctive. The variety grown in the Deccan is inverted conical, green at the stalk and gradually deepening to brown at the broad en^. Good examples weigh one-seventh of a pound. Situation. — The village of Khed Shivapoor is an important center of fig culture. It stands 14 miles south of Poonah, which city lies in north latitude 18° 28' east longitude 74° 10'. The altitude of Khed Shivapoor is about 2,200 feet above mean sea-level, but the fig thrives at Baroda as low as 100 feet above the sea-level. The orchards are fully exposed to the sun. The land of the orchards is nearly level, but they are situated on the slope of a range of hills 3,500 feet in altitude, at a height of 2,200 feet, and about 50 miles from the sea. FIGS IN INDIA. 747 Soil and subsoil— The soil is calcareous loam, the subsoil, at a depth of about 2 feet marl (a mixture of lime and clay), overlying disinte- grated trap. Temperature. — Average, about 75° ; minimum, 48° ; maximum, 95°. The village is shut in on the northeast and west by hills, which keep out hot winds. Rain-fall is about 50 inches annually, falling chiefly from June till October. The setting in of rain makes the trees ripen the young growth that was made during April and May in the hottest and driest season, and determines the ripening of fruit. Irrigation. — Irrigation is effected from wells, about 25 feet in depth, by a leathern bucket drawn up by oxen at a cost of 10 pies (say 2.5 cents) per 1,000 gallons. Two inches of water on the surface of the orchard, per month, from the end of October till the fruit is ripe ; the low quantity of water given keeps the fruit sweet. One inch of water is given twice monthly. Cultivation. — Cultivation consists of plowing or hoeing once yearly after the fruit is gathered. Fertilizers. — Fifty pounds per tree of well decayed village sweepings is applied at the end of the dry season, in May, after the crop is gathered. Pruning. — After the young tree has been made to send up five to seven shoots from near the base by stopping the first strong shoots sent out by the cutting, little, if any, real pruning is given. Weakly decayed or broken branches are cut out to the base, and such as have gone too high for a man's hand to reach are stopped, and if branches are plentiful, cut out when all the fruit is gathered from them; but the less pruning that is necessary the better. In a few instances the trees are grown as standards ; a straight stem is led up about 6 feet, and from the top of this branches are encouraged to spread horizontally. Picking. — The picking is done when the fruit is full grown and shows a slight yellowing at the stalk. Early in the morning is preferred be- cause fruit picked at that time and kept in shade retains a delicious coolness. For local use each fig is wrapped in a leaf when it has attained this stage to protect it from birds and left on the tree a week longer. This improves the quality greatly but prohibits carriage to a distance. No boxing or curing is done in India. The skin of the variety grown is much too delicate and I have not been successful with Euro- pean varieties. Planting and propagation. — Propagation is effected by cuttings of one year old wood planted in a moist, shady place during February. The trees are set out 10 to 12 feet apart. Size of orchards. — The orchards are 2 to 3 acres in extent only, because the position on the slope of a hill does not afford larger spaces suf- licu'iitly level, and a well rarely waters more. Maturity. — The trees attain fifteen years and are fruitful about twelve years. 748 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Insect pests. — Red spider, Tetranichus telarius, or some nearly allied insect, is a serious enemy. Ko futile attempts are made against it by the cultivators. They think sacrifices to idols effectual. Much yet re- mains to be done in the entomology of the fig. Cuttings. — I have never sent cuttings as far as America, but I think that if cut in February, packed in moist sand in a tin box and sent by post, a few would survive the journey. Whether it would be profitable is doubtful, as I am of opinion the fig of the Deccan is synonymous with brown Turkey, which you probably have in cultivation. I will be glad, to send you cuttings if wanted. Publications. — The Government of India does not issue statistics regarding figs. The latest edition of my book on gardening in India, published at the end of 1889, has the fullest account I know of, but it is not as full as this report. Olives are not grown in India ; the tree lives but does not fruit. G. MARSHALL WOODROW. POONAH, March 14, 1890. AUSTRALASIA. REPORT BY CONSUL GRIFFIN, OF SYDNEY. The fig is not cultivated to any great extent in the Australian colo- nies. The tree will grow and bear excellent fruit all over the country, but its cultivation can not be called an industry in any part of Austral- asia. Figs are not dried or prepared in any way for export. There are growers who have experimented with drying figs, but I have never heard of locally dried figs being offered for sale. The figs that find their way to the Sydney market are in a green state. Baron Fred, von Mueller, government botanist for Victoria, in his work entitled " Select Extra- Tropical Plants," strongly urges the extensive planting of the fig through favorable portions of desert waste for shade and fruit and in warm dis- tricts where the fruit could be dried with particular ease. He directs attention to the ease with which small cuttings of the fig tree were sent by horse post in the early history of these colonies from Port Phillip (Melbourne) to the Central Australian Mission stations, a distance as far as from St. Petersburg to the Black Sea, or from San Francisco to the Upper Missouri. Baron von Mueller mentions two main varieties which have been successfully introduced into Australia. One includes the purple, white, and golden fig-trees, producing two crops a year, but are not suitable for drying. The other main variety embraces the Marseil- laise, Bellonne, Barnisote, and the Aubique. These produce but one crop a year and supply the greatest quantity of figs for drying. The Marseillaise and Bellonne are usually regarded as the best varieties. The Barnisote and Aubique are dried with fire heat and are usually consumed fresh. The ordinary drying is effected usually by the sun. Mr. Angus PIGS IN AUSTRALASIA AND FIJI. 749 McKay gives the black Province and black Italian as the best varieties for drying in Australia, but says very little drying is done here. The white and yellow Ischia are favorite varieties. Then there are the Morocco and the white and brown Turkey. Different names are given to the same variety of figs and, as no systematic attempt has been made to classify them, there is some confusion in the nomenclature and it is almost impossible to say which is the best. The fig grows on the sea-coast and also many miles inland. It has been found to do fairly well at an elevation of 2,500 feet above the level of the sea. Excellent figs are, I am informed, grown in the Forbes and Parkes districts of New South Wales, but the finest tigs I have seen were grown at Tumut, also in this colony, where the soil is of a dark rich loam to a depth of about 10 feet. Figs also grow at Port Stephen, where the average an- nual rain-fall is about 62 inches. Mr. Angus McKay says the fig thrives best in hilly country, and as to soil, it seems that they do very well in poor sandy soil ; where the temperature is 100° figs are produced and where it is not less than 20° above zero. When the rain-fall is not less than 12 inches or more than 30 inches they appear to succeed best. When the rain fall is heavy the trees run to wood. When cultivated here both plowing and digging are practiced ; the trees are usually 20 feet apart each way and are propagated principally from cuttings. The only insects yet observed consist of a small beetle. The tree fruits in the third year. Caprification is said to be practiced in New Zealand, but it is not done, so far as I have been able to learn, in Australia, and Baron von Mueller says it is unnecessary and in some instances injuri- ous and objectionable. G. W. GRIFFIN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Sydney, January 21, 1890. FIJI. Figs are not cultivated. The very few experimental trees that have been planted have proved a decided failure. The fruit has not been grown in these islands. A blight, black in appearance, strikes the tree before it comes into bearing, which, if it does not kill the tree, so retards its growth that it never bears any fruit. ANDREWS A. ST. JOHN, Commercial Agent. UNITED STATES COMMERCIAL AGENCY, Levuka, January 11, 1890. CONTINENT OF EUROPE. FRANCE. REPORT BY CONSUL TRAIL, OF MARSEILLES. The tig- tree (Fieus carica) that is cultivated iu France was brought from Greece many centuries ago and is now, like the Olive, common to the whole of the south of France and of the adjoining countries, more especially eastward. It grows in a wild state in almost any place and position. On many an old wall small fig-trees are to be seen and on many a road-side bank they are the tree most frequently to be found. In country farm-yards, inn-keepers' gardens, stable-yards, the fig-tree is in variably present and very often as a solitary specimen. It would be difficult to find a garden of any description in southern France without a fig-tree. Varieties. — The varieties are innumerable, and it would be hard to give a list of all the different ones, as they vary according to soil exposure, treatment, and climate. The chief varieties cultivated in this district are the following : The " Marseillaise," or Athens fig, a white fig of very nice, delicate taste, both when eaten fresh from the tree and when dried. This variety is considered the best in the south of France, and many people prefer it even to the Smyrna fig. The " Mouissonne," a dark fig with a fine skin, very good when eaten ripe and fresh, and good for drying. The " Barnissotte," one that is almost only eaten fresh. There are several other varieties that could be mentioned, but they are all more or less similar to the above three kinds. Soil. — The fig-tree grows in almost any soil common to its climate, but dry ground suits it best. Along certain dry and even arid Strips of land bordering on the Mediterranean fig-trees flourish and produce fruit in abundance. Climate. — The same climate that suits the olive tree is favorable to the fig, i. e.j a warm climate, where excess of heat and cold is scarce. With special reference to this district it is worthy of note that on the right side of the Rhone figs do not develop very well ; the fruit remains small and is not good for drying. Whereas on the left side, and from the Khone to the Italian frontier, figs attain a far higher degree of quality; they are larger, sweeter, more delicate, and are excellent for drying- 750 FIGS IX FRANCE. 751 The explanation of this fact is that the plains and districts on the right side of the Rhone are not sheltered by hills as on the other side. Situation. — Sheltered hillsides are very favorable to fig culture 5 exposure to cold winds is not conducive to good results. Rain-fall. — The winter rains generally give sufficient moisture to the soil for tho whole year ; fig-trees that are intended to produce fruit for drying ought not to be watered artificially. Too much moisture lessens the quality and the richness of the fruit, and frequently renders drying difficult. Tree planting. — When planting fig trees care should be taken to select a deep soil, or in any case to dig as deep as possible and mix some fer- tilizer (manure, old leaves, etc.) well into the earth, on which the roots will rest. During the first two years it is always advisable, in districts that are subject to frosts, to cover or bind the trees with straw for the winter. After the second year the young trees are generally strong enough to stand the winter uncovered. The ground should be well dug up at least once in winter and once in spring. Fertilizers. — Fertilizers should be dug into the ground once a year, during spring, for young trees, and once every two years for older trees. Fig-trees, once well rooted and well established in a place, require very little fertilizing, and this can even be dispensed with if the soil be well dug occasionally. Pruning. — Pruning should be done once a year, but only lightly, i. e., one should only thin out dead and useless branches in the body and crown of the tree, and cut away all young shoots that spring up at the foot of the stem. The latter point is important, as the fig-tree being very vora- cious young ungrafted shoots would only uselessly exhaust the soil and weaken the original tree. For this reason, too, it is well to keep fig- trees apart from other trees, for not only does the fig-tree weaken its neighbors, but its neighbors weaken it as well. Maturity. — The fig-tree produces fruit pretty regularly every year. Some varieties give two crops, the first of which begins about the 20th of June and lasts till about the 20th of July, the figs of which, called "Flower" figs, are not good for drying, and the second at the end of September. Several black and gray figs come under this variety. The other kinds, of one crop only, begin to ripen about the middle of August and continue ripening successively throughout August and September ; these are the best for drying, and to this class the " Mar- seillaise" belongs. With reference to those that give two crops, it is interesting to note that the figs of the first are borne by the branches of the previous year only, and that those of the second crop are borne by the young branches of the same year. This accounts for the latter ripening successively, as each fresh leaf that opens out bears a fig in its axil. Picking and ctirhif/. — Figs, either for immediate consumption or for drying', ought not to b«» g.irlioivd ix-forr iln-y are quite ripe. The signs 752 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. of ripeness are complete softening of the fig, slight bursting of the skin, a tear or drop of gum oozing out of the center. Figs must be gathered by hand, and in plucking them off the branches care should be taken to pick them with the short stalk that attaches them to the branch. The state of the weather and the time of day are points to be taken into consideration when gathering figs for drying. It is true that in this district it is seldom that the weather is not fine during August and September. However, fine days should always be selected, and pick- ing should not commence until the morning dew has disappeared from off the fruit. As soon as the figs are picked they must be laid in rows on wicker or basket-work hurdles or boards and well exposed, but in a sheltered position and raised from the ground, to the full force of the sun. The figs should not be placed too close together, and they must be turned round every day about midday, when the sun is hottest, so that every day a fresh surface is exposed to the direct rays of the sun. The hurdles or boards, without touching or disturbing the figs, must be taken indoors every evening and placed in dry, airy rooms till the morning, when they are brought out again in the same way. No dampness nor moisture must be allowed to get to the figs whilst dry- ing, and if the weather be uncertain one should be near at hand and take them in at the first sign of rain. In fine weather six days suffice to dry figs, and this is generally the case with the first batches in August and beginning of September. But as the days grow shorter and the sun becomes less powerful more time is required and the process of drying lasts from ten to fifteen days. Wet weather is exceedingly detrimental to drying, as it is a very diffi- cult and uncertain operation to dry figs indoors by artificial heat. Arti- ficially dried figs are never as good as sun-dried ones. The quicker the drying takes place the better the figs are, and the exact stage of complete dryness can generally be ascertained by the firmness of a fig taken between two fingers and rolled. The interior seeds lose their red color when the fig is quite dry, and this is one of the signs that the process is completed. They can then be classified according to size, appearance, and quality, and packed in baskets of flat wicker, or boxes, ready for storing or for shipment. They are usually packed in rows and layers, pressed down one by one with the thumb, in such a way that the stalk is in the center underneath, and then each layer should be pressed down with the aid of a small board, slightly, until thev basket or box is full. Prices, — Fresh ripe figs sell very readily at the time of the crops, es- pecially the early ones, for a few cents a pound. No exact price can be given, as the value varies from 3 to 7 or 8 cents a pound according to time, quantity, and quality of crop, also place where they are sold. In unfavorable seasons for drying and in late crops, quantities are made into jam and are sometimes even boiled into other fruit jams, such as FIGS IN CORSICA. 753 raspberry and strawberry, to which the fig, when boiled, assimilates itself iii appearance. But the chief trade is done in dried figs and the prices of these vary according to quality, quantity, and time of year. The grower dries his own figs and usually sells them in bulk to the dealer, who then sorts them and sells them again separately as per their respective qualities. The " Marseillaise " fig fetches from 75 centimes to 1.50 francs per kilogram (from 8 to 16 cents per pound) and frequently even more in retail. Other varieties sell cheaper ; ordinary dark and blue figs gen- erally fetch from 30 to 40 centimes per kilogram (from 3 to 4 cents per pound). Very common small figs, dried, are sold in some districts in large quantities, packed in sacks, for distilling purposes, but this applies more generally to Italy and Spain. This kind of fig is also some- times used, baked or roasted and ground into coarse powder, to adulter- ate coffee with. Insect pests.— The fig-tree, well cared for, is very rarely attacked by either disease or injurious insects; in some regions these are unknown. In some cases a kind of a louse attaches itself to the branches and spreads over the whole tree, if not detected in time and rubbed off care- fully by means of a coarse piece of cloth. If, however, it has not been detected in time and the parasite has already covered and killed certain branches, these branches must simply be sawn off. Reproduction. — Like the olive, the fig- tree grows to a good old age. Reproduction takes place, naturally, by seedlings, but as this process is slow and uncertain, it is generally done by cuttings, which are selected from good healthy trees and planted in deep soil. They must be grafted in about the second year and bear fruit in their third year already after transplantation to their definite ground. If the grafting takes well, fruit is even produced before the third year. CHAS. B. TRAIL, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Marseilles, April 30, 1890. CORSICA.* REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT DAMIANI, OF BASTIA. Varieties. — (Common fig-tree, Ficus carica.) The varieties cultivated in this locality are, for drying, the White (Bourgassotte Blanche] ; Na- politaine, very good quality, very good to dry, yields small number of flowers; for eating when ripe the Yerdale; the Marseillaise; Athens fig, the kind best adapted ; Dunmine, very good for drying ; Francis- caua, for drying and for eating. * Translated at the Marseilles consulate. 754 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Black (Bourgassotte noir), very good fresh figs ; Niello noir, the ear- liest eatiug figs. Colored (Figue latte), excellent fresh and dry; Observantine, very numerous flowers ; Bellone, excellent fresh or dry. Situation. — The fig tree is abundant in Corsica, particularly on the littoral, especially on well-exposed hill-sides, on the rocks at the foot of the mountains close to the sea, on dry ground. The roots being very long, it is cultivated in deep, calcareous soil. It grows from the sea-level to 800 meters of altitude. The trees grown in the plains and shoals produce figs which dry and have not the requisite flavor and whiteness. Although the fig-tree grows on dry soil, often in the fissures of rocks and walls, it yields the most abundant and best flavored fruit when cultivated on good light soil. It is affected by dampness, but yet requires watering in very hot weather. Cultivation. — The fig-tree does not require much attention ; the ground has only to be dug once or twice a year and the fig-tree thrives. If planted in a warm locality it assumes a goodly shape. Climate. — It prefers a warm climate, especially in the vicinity of olive- trees. Where the thermometer does not fall below 12° Centigrade it produces leaves and fruit continuously. It does not prosper without manure from farm-houses. It is multiplied by cuttings. Small branches of 2 centimeters broad by 20 centimeters long are the best. Planting and propagating. — The slips are put entirely under ground, except the terminal bud. The ground should be dug to a depth of at least 45 centimeters, and the trees should be about 6 meters distant from each other. Figs ripen at two seasons, at the end of spring and beginning of summer, and in the autumn for the second figs. The second is the most important. Picking and curing. — The gathering is long, because they ripen suc- cessively. They wait till the figs are perfectly ripe, and even over- ripe. Those gathered unripe mature by keeping, but have not the flavor of those matured on the tree. Perfect ripeness is indicated by their being soft, the cracking and falling away of the rind, and by a liquid in the center. The day and hour are important if the figs are to be dried. The dew must have disappeared and the weather must be dry. After being gathered they are taken into the house and placed on planks or on hurdles, exposed to the greatest heat of the sun, and in a sheltered place, and at night in a well-aired place. The form and pres- ervation of the fig depends on the promptitude of the operation of drying. The figs have to be turned over and flattened frequently. Sometimes during the operation of drying rain comes on. The dry- ing then becomes difficult and almost impossible except by means of the artificial heat of furnaces, which, however managed, injures the quality of the figs and lessens the market value by a third. Yield. — A fig ground of a hectare, containing 2G7 fig-trees, twenty- years old, will yield (at the rate of 12.5 kilograms each, 3,214 FIGS IN SOUTHERN FRANCE. 755 kilograms of dry figs, of the average value of 37 francs the 100 kilo- grams and .'50 francs, reckoning losses) about 963 francs. On account of the difficulties in drying nearly one crop in three is lost, which reduces the average profit to 640 francs. SIMON DAMIANI, Consular Agent. BASTIA, CORSICA. SOUTHERN FRANCE. . REPORT BY VICE-CONSUL MA.RTIN, OF MARSEILLES. [RepuLlished from Consular Reports, No. 41£.] The fig tree is common in Southern France, and specimens of the sev- eral varieties known in the country are to be found in almost every ground lot, but it is not the object of special culture. The preparation of tigs requires too much time and care, and the price could not repay hired labor. The figs must be culled one by one, when perfectly ripe; great care must be taken not to bruise the fruit or sever the peduncle* The tigs are then laid on cane hurdles, exposed to the sun, and turned over every now and then until perfectly dry, that is, for a period often or fifteen days. As the least exposure to moisture would turn the figs black and reduce the value by one-half, these hurdles have to be taken in every evening, to be again taken out every morning. The difficulties of the operation deter most farmers from undertaking it, except those that own small farms where everything must be turned to account, and that cultivate them themselves with no other help than that of their fam- ily. The small quantities thus prepared are gathered at the end of the season by commercial travelers, who pay from 1.50 to 2 francs per kilo- gram for "Marseillaises" figs (which are the most esteemed variety), and generally mix them with figs imported from Italy, Spain, Algeria, and the East. It is in consequence impossible to form any idea of the importance of the production, or of the proceeds. In 1882 the impor- tation of figs from the above-named countries amounted to 9,964,743 kilograms, whereas the exportation was not even given separately, for it was included in the official returns with that of other dried fruit not elsewhere specified, amounting in all to 397,269 kilograms. The climate of this consular district does not agree with orange and lemon trees, which are not seen in the open field except at a short dis- tance from Nice. J. S. MARTIN, JR., Vice and Deputy Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Marseilles, March 11, 1884. 756 FBU1T CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. ITALY. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL RICHMOND, OF ROME. (Republished from Consular Reports, No. 41^.) In Italy many varieties of the Ficus carica are cultivated. The widest spread of these varieties may be divided into two groups, as follows : The^co gentile and the fico portogliese, which are the earliest; the ver- dini and brogiotti neri, the brogiotti bianchi, the brianzosi, the datteri or dottati (which are thick skinned). All these varieties bear fruit only once a year. The fico albo and the fico San Pietro bear fruit twice a year. A fig tree of medium size will yield generally from 44 to 60 kilo- grams of fruit. Usually the fig is planted in company with other fruit trees (olive, almond, and others); but fig orchards, where figs alone are grown, may be found (at Lecce, for instance), and in such cases the trees must be planted at such a distance apart that when they reach their fullest development they may not come in contact one with the other; (1) because the fig needs a great deal of sun; and (2) because, otherwise, if the partial and easily located infection called rizoctonia should show itself it would spread rapidly through all the orchard. In many places it is the custom to alternate the fig, almond, and olive, so that each fig tree may be isolated. In Tuscany the figs called dottati are preferred for drying. They are peeled and dried in the sun, and then, with a slight sprinkling of anise- seed, are rolled into disks or small loaves. In other cases the rind is not removed, but the fig is split in two, flavored with anise or fennel seed, dried in the sun, and so sent to market. The common purple or black figs are dried in the oven or in the sun, just as they come from the tree. At Lecce, Keggio, Calabria, Cosenza, and Cotanzaro this system is adopted. They also make a fig paste with walnuts, almonds, cinnamon, etc. It is customary to drop a little honey on them while drying. There are coming into use stoves with hot-air chambers, especially adapted for drying figs as well as other fruits. LEWIS KICHMOND, Consul- Gen$raL UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Rome, April 1, 1884. CATANIA. REPORT BY CONSUL WOODCOCK, OF CATANIA. (Republished from Consular Reports, No. 41£). , Of the fig tree there are several varieties ; some yield a large fruit, others small. The fruit also varies in its degree of sweetness ; also in color from white to black. The fruit of some varaities ripen sooner FIGS IN CATANIA. 757 than that of others. The trees grow well in poor or rich soil, and bear abundantly in our mild climate (mountain side, if not too high), or hot climate (of the valleys). The soil for the fig must be dry. It will not flourish in wet ground. The favorite varieties here are the Sangiovannaro, the Sottuno, the MelinciaiiOj and the Ottato. The Ottato has smooth leaves ; the pe- duncle of the flower and fruit is longer, and the fruit is sweeter than of other varieties. The fruit of the Ottato is best for drying. The fig is here propagated from the suckers that spring up from the roots ; cuttings from the tree also are used in propagation. Cuttings in this climate should be set in the months of February and March. In orchards the distance to be maintained between the trees is 8 meters (26 feet). The fig is long-lived, because it is constantly being renewed by shoots that put up from the roots taking the place of the main trunk when it becomes old and decayed. The soil must be worked in the spring, also in November following. The best varieties are grafted, also budded upon the stock of the wild fig. Grafting and budding are also done upon healthy trees of the best varieties. The time for pruning is in March, or when in blossom in June. All dead and diseased branches should be cut away. But little pruning is necessary. Too much is ii> jurious. Figs here are dried in the following manner : The fruit must be gath ered when partially ripe. It must not be what is termed " dead ripe ;" in other words, it must be more green than ripe. When gathered give the fruit a plunge bath in boiling water, removing them from the water quickly. Then place the fruit in a shady place. The next morning at sunrise spread the same upon a platform (not upon the ground, because of its dampness), that it may be flooded with sunlight. Here shallow willow- work baskets are used for holding the fruit while drying. These are never placed upon the ground, but in an elevated position. At going down of the sun the fruit must be covered to protect it from the night dews or unexpected showers of rain. Continue thus for several days until the fruit becomes dry. When dry place the fruit in layers in small boxes or baskets, artisti- cally and neatly arranging the same. Press the fruit down firmly by hand, and continue the layers of fruit until the vessel is full. The boxes (or baskets) must be securely covered and kept in a dry place. The culture of the fig is not a specialty in this part of Sicily ; but lit- tle of the fruit is exported from this district and none from Catania to the United States. The raisin grape is not cultivated here. The grapes grown in this part are manufactured into wine. For the information given on the culture of the olive and fig, I am indebted to our respected consular agent, Mr. N. Stella, of Syracuse. The foregoing statements about the olive and fig are almost a literal 758 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. rendering of his excellent Italian letter addressed to me on this subject. Mr. Stella has represented the United States at Syracuse for thirty-nine years past. He is certainly a veteran. ALBERT WOODCOCK, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Catania, May 21, 1884. MESSINA. REPORT BY CONSUL JONES. Varieties. — The best variety for drying are the fico albo, white fig (round), and the fico petrociano, purple fig (oblong). The best variety for eating when ripe are the brogiotto, the adottato, the graziano, the catalano, the palermitano, the verunio (winter fig), and the lardaio. Tree planting. — The above-named varieties are grown throughout this province. They are not planted by themselves but are scattered through the vineyards, groves, orchards, and pasture-lands. Distance from sea. — The fig thrives 10 miles from the sea-shore. The brogiotto and the petrociano do better near the sea than any other varieties. The graziano is ill adapted to low levels and sea-breezes. Elevation. — The fig does well at an elevation of 2,000 feet above the sea-level. Exposure to sun.— All exposures suit the fig. A northern exposure is the least desirable. Position. — Hill-sides suit the fig best. At but a slight elevation above the sea the fruit is insipid and soon spoils. The finest trees are to be met with at an elevation of from 900 to 1,200 feet above the sea. Up- land fruit has the highest flavor and the best keeping qualities. Soil, etc. — The fig delights in a friable, dry, and somewhat cold soil, composed in special of the detritus of calcareous rocks. It shuns wet and marshy soils. The best soils for figs for drying are hill-sides of dis- integrated calcareous rocks of the Tertiary and Quaternary periods. Soils in which sulphur abound are excellent for the fig. Climatic influences. — Spring frosts and autumnal fogs are disastrous to the fig ; the former kill the young buds and the latter cause the leaves to fall off, which prevents the fruit from ripening. ( Temperature. — The fig requires a temperature of from 28° to 95° Fahr., average temperature, 66° Fahr. Rain-fall. — The fig requires from 22 to 28 inches of rain annually. It suffers greatly during protracted droughts. Spring and summer rains are always of benefit to the fig. September rains are most injurious ; they are heavy and so charged with nitrogenous salts that they cause the nearly ripe fruit to split. Irrigation. — Irrigation is not required by the fig. When grown iu FIGS IN MESSINA. 759 orange and lemon groves which are subject to irrigation the fig pro- duces a large crop but its fruit is inferior in quality and is lacking in keeping qualities. Cultivation. — The fig might well be called the pariah amongst plants. It is rarely worked — occasionally the soil is stirred around the base of the tree (in November). When grown with orange and lemon trees, vines, etc., being worked when they are worked, it comes into bearing early and dies early. Fertilizers. — In this district the fig is not even fertilized with its own leaves, which are gathered and fed green to cattle. Stable manure does not suit the fig ; ashes and rags are better adapted to it. Pruning.— The fig is never pruned, as pruning causes the wood to rot; dead branches only are removed. Picking and curing. — Figs for drying are left on the trees until they are overripe and soft. The season for gathering depends upon the time of flowering. The varieties that produce two crops a year, such as the fico albo and the fico petrociano, bear their first crop in June and July and their second crop in September and October. The fruit of the one crop varieties, the brogriotto, graziano, catalano, ripen in September and October. Figs for market are gathered at sunrise or at sunset. Figs for drying are gathered at noon. A small plot of land, near the farmer's house, is carefully swept and inclosed by a temporary brush fence. In this space large flat trays, made of reed cane, are laid on the ground, an82, were as follows : Years. Imports. Exports. Quantities in metrical centners.* Value in sil- ver florins. Quantities in metrical centners. Valne in sil- rer florins. 1882 . . . 39,409 30, 271 32,912 106,580 91,268 1, 509, 883 1, 311, 270 1, 236, 816 1, 888, 980 1, 898, 735 410, 427 438, 213 905,841 434, 674 222, 140 », 150, 777 8, 852, 684 15, 539, 957 7, 105, «)68 5, 125, 267 1881 1880 1879 1878 *One metrical centner=100 kilograms=220.46 pounds avoirdupois. The origin of the wines imported to this country can not be definitely given, except for the champagne which came from France, via Germany, to the amount of 5,346 hectoliters in 1882 and 4,284 in 1883. Of the total importations of wine in 1882, 21,388 metrical centners crossed the German frontier, 8,867 the Roumanian, 4,933 the Servian, 2,103 the Italian, 1,846 via Trieste, and 185 via Fiume and other ports. Of the exports 182,477 metrical centners crossed* the German fron- tier, 85,938 passed out by Finme and other ports, 62,708 by Trieste, 37,625 passed over the Italian frontier, 13,690 the Swiss, 13,297 the Eoumanian, 9,477 the Russian, and 4,994 the Servian. Wines to the value of about $50,000 are shipped annually from this country to the United States. It is affirmed also that large quantities of red wines are sent from Hungary to France to be manufactured into claret, etc., and the large quantities shipped from Fiume and Trieste would 'seem to give credit to the charge. The quantity of raisins and dried currants imported into this em- pire is very considerable, amounting in 1882 to 6,991 tons, valued at 2,473,682 florins, on which a duty of 711,744 florins gold was paid, be- ing at the rate of almost 30 per cent. They entered almost entirely by the port of Trieste. The duties on wines imported into Austria- Hungary at present, ac- cording to the general tariff law May 25, 1882, are as follows: In casks or bottles, 20 florins per 100 kilograms. Italy and Roumania, however, enjoy special privileges by virtue of conventional tariffs for the frontier traffic, by which they pay respectively 3.20 florins and 5.26 florins per 100 kilograms in place of the 20 florins of the general tariff. Champagne pays by the general tariff 50 florins per 100 kilograms, but the recent commercial convention with France reduced the duty on French champagnes to 40 florins per 100 kilograms. The total amount of duties collected on wines in Austria-Hungary 156A 26 792 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. during 1882 was 552,144, against 362,316 florins in 1881, and 305,881 florins in 1880. The commerce in crude tartar or argols has become very important of late years ; the exports amount annually to over 1,000,000 florins. The following table gives the quantities and values of the imports and ex- ports during the last five years, 1878-?82 : Years. Imports. Exports. Quantity. Value. Quantity. Value. 1882 Met. cent. 3,651 4,745 4,352 3,157 4,069 Florins. 310, 3?5 403, 325 348,160 220, 990 264, 485 Met. cent. 11, 505 12, 362 • 15, 572 8,826 4,849 Florins. 1, 035, 450 1,112,580 1, 323, 620 661, 950 339, 430 1881 1880 1879 1878 . . . The shipments of argols were made almost entirely to or through Ger- many, amounting in 1882 to not less than 11,188 metrical centners. Con- siderable quantities of these, however, were in transit to the United States, as the value of the invoices of argols authenticated by the con- sular officers in Austria-Hungary during the last three years shows large increase, being as follows : In 1881, $174,537 ; in 1882, $254,041 ; and in 1883, $342,445. PRICES AND CONSUMPTION. The average import and export prices of wines, as estimated by the Central Commission, are respectively about 40 florins and 20 florins per hectoliter, being equal to $1.60 and 80 cents per gallon. The prices at the vineyard cellars generally run from 12 to 15 florins per hectoliter for the ordinary red and white wines, and from 25 to 40 florins for the finer qualities. The prices at which the various wines are retailed for consumption are so varied as almost to defy any approximate average price ; but it must range somewhere between 75 kreutzers and 1 florin per bottle, con- taining about four- fifths of a quart, to the end that the average price of a gallon of wine in Austria-Hungary may be set down at $ 1 *50. The average annual production of wine during the last five years is given at 6,954,934 hectoliters, the importation at 60,088 hectoliters, and the exportation at 482,259 hectoliters, leaving for consumption an an- nual average of 6,532,763 hectoliters, equal to 172,595,598 American wine gallons. If, therefore, the average price stated above be not excessive, which can hardly be the case, the total annual average value of th£ consump- tion of wine in Austia-Hungary amounts to $259,000,000, equivalent to a pro rata of $7 per year for each inhabitant. If to this amount we add the value of the beer annually drunk in Austria Hungary, 12,000,000 THE VINE IN SOUTHERN FRANCE. 793 hectoliters, equal to 317,000,000 wine gallons, valued at $79.000,000, we have a grand total of $338,000,000 as the value of the wine and beer annually consumed in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. JAMES BILEY WEAVER, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE GENERAL, Vienna, April 8, 1884. FRANCE. SOUTHERN FRANCE. \ REPORT BY VICE-CONSUL MARTIN, OF MARSEILLES. [Republished from consular reports, No. 41^.] Climate, soil, etc. — The climate of that part of France which is washed by the Mediteranean can be placed among the most pleasant in the world. Extreme heat and cold are alike unknown, and while under the influence of regular sea-breezes the thermometer rarely shows a temperature of more than 80° or 86° Fahrenheit in summer, the winters are remarkably mild, and snow and ice are in fact a rarity in the country. On the other hand, drought is exceptionally severe, and in the warm season months are sometimes passed without a drop of rain to moisten the parched ground. The water streams are mere torrents, which can not supply any water for irrigating purposes in the dry season, and, when swollen in the fall by frequent floods of rain, rush impetuously to the sea, carrying away large quantities of the light vegetable earth, in the place of which they leave rocks and pebbles brought down from the steep barren hills with which the country is covered. The soil is generally light and stony, calcareous or argillaceous, some times granitic or schistic. Frequent and strong winds from the north- west sweep across the country, and, being cold and dry, are extremely injurious to agriculture. For all these reasons the modes of cultivation and the produce of the soil are widely different from what they are in the other parts of France. The culture of grain, so largely predominant elsewhere, is here confined to a few plains and valleys that are favored with means of natural or artificial irrigation, and is entirely inadequate to the demands of local consumption. Arbustive culture, on the other hand, is extensive, and furnishes the country with most of its revenue. The olive tree, which is not cultivated beyond a compartively short distance from the Medi- terranean shores, and the vine, which is more extensively grown in these than in any other parts of France, stand foremost in that branch of agriculture. Varieties.— In a general way, vines in this country can be planted in 794 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. any sort of ground, without regard to altitude, declivity, or distance from the sea. Still it is a well-established fact that better results are obtained in valleys and plains as to quantity and on hill-sides as to quality. In other words, wine being the chief object of vine-culture in this country, the produce of hill-side vineyards will be less abundant, but obtains higher prices for its superior flavor, richness, and strength. As for the nature of the soil, every different ground appears to be better adapted to the different varieties, numbering three hundred or more. A complete enumeration of these varieties would be tedious and of little interest, and I shall confine myself to a brief description of the varieties mostly to be found in southern France. The " Mourvedre " or " Mourvedu " thrives best on calcareous soil, with a thin layer of vegetable earth and a substratum consisting of crackled rocks. Each plant can then give as much as five pints of a wine that is substantial, of a rich color, with a slight tannic flavor, contain- ing about 11 per cent, of alcohol. The grapes are sweet, black blue, round, rather small, and more or less thick on the bunch. In this coun- try they come to maturity in the first days of September, and do not rot as easily as other varieties. The "Mourvedre" bears fruit on its third year, comes into full bearing on the sixth, and is fruitful after that as long as it lives, viz, from forty to one hundred years. The " Grenache" has a preference for hillsides and dry and gravelly soil ; it thrives on all kinds of ground, provided they be free from dampness ; it is more sensitive to cold than the Mourvedre, and can be killed by a temperature of 17° Fahr. There are two varieties of Gre- nache, the black and the white. The white produces good fruit for the table, and a kind of white wine that is much esteemed. The " Peconi touar " is remarkable for its durability and abundance of produce. It gives the best returns on rocky hillsides and meager soil, but does not bear fruit until the fifth or sixth year. As the wine produced is light in strength and color, the grape, of a black purple hue, is generally mixed with the fruit of other varieties in the preparation of wine. The " Aramon " or " Ugni noir" only thrives in loamy soil, and must be extensively cultivated. It produces large quantities of a wine that is light, poor in alcohol, does not keep long, and suffers much frofi trans- portation The "Brun fourca" is mostly cultivated on hill-sides or in dry, grav- elly, or stony land. The grape, which is large, elongated, of a bluish- black color, is not fit for the table, and must be mixed, for the making of wine, with other grapes richer in sugar and tannin. The production, which begins in the third year, increases as the plant advances in age. On favorable soil it reaches the quantity of three quarts of wine for each plant. The " Cangnau " or " Monistel n must be planted on high, substantial ground, free from dampness. It begins to bear fruit on the second years THE VINE IN SOUTHERN FRANCE. 795 and produces a spirituous wine that keeps well, improves with time, and stands transportation remarkably well, but is somewhat rough to the taste. The vine is apt to suffer from oidium. The " Picardan" is one of the most productive varieties cultivated in this country. The best results are obtained in rich, pebbly, consistent, high land. Dampness is rather beneficial to the plant. The grapes are la iv, elongated, fleshy, sweet, and very palatable. The wine produced is of a fine red color, mellow. It possesses a pleasant flavor, with a smack of the fruit, and keeps well. Owing to the general preference given by the consumer of this coun- try to red wine, the white varieties are but little cultivated, and the grapes are generally consumed fresh. Still the number of these vari- eties is large, and I shall only mention those that are most common in the country. The " Ugni blanc" is one of the few white varieties that are grown in view of wine-making, owing to the small size of the grapes. In low and rich laud the quantity produced is larger and amounts to an average of two quarts for every vine. On high, stony, or gravelly ground, on hill sides, the quality is much superior, and the wine pro- ditced commands much higher prices than that of the plains. The plant thrives better near the sea-coa^t, where it is less affected by cold. The other varieties, "Clairette,""Colomband,""Mayorguin" or "Marseilles plant," and u Muscat," are generally cultivated on hill-sides, and their produce is sent to the market for table use. The Muscat grape is only turned into wine in one district of the department of He'rault, that of Lunel and Frontignan. Plantation and culture. — In this warm and dry climate it is necessary to break up the earth to the depth of 2 or 3 feet ; the time when this preparatory work is performed varies according to the nature of the soil. It can be done on high and dry ground before the rainy season sets in, and even in summer ; for low and damp soil it is preferable to wait until the heavy fall rains are over and delay the operation until March or April. When the ground has been previously planted with vines, it is a gen- eral custom to allow it to rest for a number of years, varying from one to two for strong, consistent, fertile, or clayey soil, and for a longer time in sandy, light, permeable land. Lucern or other leguminous plants are raised in the interval, but the culture of wheat should be avoided, a« it deprives the earth of much of the gluten which is neces- sary to the grape from which wine is to be made. When the ground has been properly prepared the vines are planted in the form of cuttings or young plants raised in nurseries. The latter grow faster, but vines that have grown from cuttings appear to do better in the long run, espe- cially when they have been taken from vines twenty or twenty-five years old. Slips can be kept for some time before being planted, but must then be allowed to soak in "water for some days. The time and depth at which to make the plantations are also regti- 796 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. lated by the nature of the ground. In dry and high land winter is the most favorable season ; in low and moist ground the middle of spring is preferable. The depth generally adapted is that of 2J feet in dry and light soil, 20 inches in medium land, and 13 inches in rich, damp earth. In this country, where vines are grown in bushes and without the support of poles, no other care is taken of the vineyard for the first year beyond that of keeping it clear of weeds by tilling and hoeing. After the first year the first pruning takes place. Only one branch is left on the stem, generally that which is nearer to the ground. It is well established that a short stem helps maturity to a great extent, but as on the other hand the plant is made by it more liable to rot and frost, the above rule is only followed on hillsides or dry land : in valleys and low, damp land the branch which is left on the plant is selected at a distance of 12 to 14 inches from the ground. In all cases that branch is itself pruned short and left with two or three eyes only. Every year after the first a new branch is left on the stem, but the total number is rarely over four or five. The guiding rule for pruning is that branches shooting from the stem are unpro- ductive and should be cut close to the stem. The fruitful sprigs issaie from one-year-old branches. Each eye of these sprigs generally pro- duces two bunches of grape and one shoot. The quantity of eyes that should be allowed to remain on the vine depends largely upon the nature of the soil and the strength of the plant ; the number on a full- grown vine varies from 12 to 24. There is no generally adopted time for pruning, every vine grower using in this respect his own judgment. It ordinarily takes place between the months of January and March, and is followed immediately afterwards by a first plowing, which after a few days is completed by a second hoeing ; the same operation is repeated in April and May ; and, in the best-conducted vineyards, a third time in June. The culture should always be applied with great care, and never exceed the depth of from 10 to 12 inches, for fear of hurting the roots. There are but very few districts in this region where an abundant supply of water can be obtained, and the vineyards are in consequence rarely irrigated. When practicable, water is brought into trenches that run along the rows of vines, but never in excess, as it is well ascer- tained that moisture, while improving the yield as to quantity, is detri- mental in a large measure to quality, and makes the vine much more sensitive to frosts and cold weather. Fertilizers. — In new soils the vine can easily dispense with fertilizers of any kind for thirty years or more ; it is even claimed by some good cultivators that an addition of virgin earth or calcareous marl prove to be the best fertilizers. Still the custom is prevalent to use stable dung at the rate of 12 tons per acre, applied once in from four to six years. A ton per acre of horns, woolen rags, or oil-cakes, which are abundantly imported or produced at Marseilles, is frequently used as a substitute. THE VINE IN SOUTHERN FRANCE. 797 Horns and rags remain effective for five years, oil cake for two only. Whatever may be the manure employed, it is customarily buried in fur- rows cut between the rows of vines. These rows are generally from 3J to ,"> feet apart, and the same distance is kept between each plant in the row, but in some parts of the country a larger space frequently exists between the rows. The intervals thus intervening are then devoted to some other culture, wheat in most cases. But it has been found out that the system proves injurious to both cultures, and it has been aban- doned to a a great extent. Yield. — Grapes are never dried in this country, except by such farmers as do not have a sufficient number of vines to enable them to undertake the making of wine, or are too far away from a consuming center where they could send to the market the small quantity of fresh grapes pro- duced on their farm. The method followed by such farmers is very simple : The grapes are dipped in boiling water and exposed to the rays of the sun for eight or ten days. The raisin thus prepared can not com- pete with that imported here in large quantities from Spain, and the amount produced is consequently insignificant. Kailroad facilities have made it possible to dispose of a certain quan- tity of fresh grapes at paying prices, but still the great object is the production of wine. In consequence, all the calculations made regard- ing the yield, value, and cost of crop depend upon this production, which is regulated by so many circumstances that it can not easily be established on a fixed .basis. While the cost is submitted to little variation, between the sums of 300 and 400 francs per hectare ($24 to $40 per acre), including the purchase of manure, sulphur (as a preventive against oidium), and the making of wine, the yield is entirely subject to the weather throughout the year, as is the value to the quotations of the wine market. It is generally conceded that one acre of vines can produce from 200 to 400 gallons of wine, and that the cost of cultivation takejs up one-third of the proceeds. Diseases. — Many causes can affect the yield and value of the crop. Amongst those of frequent occurrence are atmospheric influences, early spring frosts, that blight thje plant and leave no other remedy than the cutting of the stem on a level with the ground to let the new sprouts grow from the roots, or the uprooting of the whole plant, which is either replaced by a new one or, more rarely, by means of "provining," that is, forcing into the ground one of the long branches of the next vine. Extreme drought prevents the growth of the grapes in size and quan- tity, but improves the quality of the wine wonderfully, according to the common saying, "A year of drought is a year of good wine." A wet season, on the contrary, brings abundance of wine, but impairs the quality, so that in many instances the wine is unsalable and must be turned into alcohol. The vine also suffers from many parasitic insects or diseases. Few 798 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. of these ever produce disastrous effects except oidiuin, phylloxera, and, more lately, mildew. Oidiuin, which at a time endangered the future of the French vine- yards, has been and is still successfully counteracted by the use of flowers of sulphur. They are mixed with an equal quantity of plaster, or a smaller proportion of lime, and carefully sprinkled on the young leaves once or twice before the ripening of the grapes. The wine-growers of this country, who could procure flowers of sulphur at low rates from the important refineries of Marseilles, were in the end benefited by the appearance of the disease, as it opened for the abundant but inferior wines produced in this region a more extensive market, and brought about a decided advance in the prices, which had been as low as 6 francs per hectoliter (8 cents per gallon). When the rates of 20 and 30 francs per hectoliter could be obtained the production of wine increased in a remarkable measure. In 1874 the seven departments of Bouches- du-Rhone, Gard, Aude, Eerault (the production of which alone amounted to 13,000,000 hectoliters), Pyr6nees-Ori en tales, Var, and Yaucluse, forming this consular district, contributed more than two- thirds of the total production in France. It was just then that phylloxera made its appearance and raged in this district, where it worked its more pernicious effects. Many vine- yards were entirely destroyed, all were attacked, and an idea of the ex- tent of the damage can be formed from the following table, giving the area planted in vines in thousands of acres and the production of wine in thousands of gallons, in each of the seven departments, for the three periods 1856-'60, 1866-'70, 1876->80: Department. • 1856-'60. 1866-'70. 1876-'80. Surface cultivated, 1,000 acres. Production, 1,000 gal- lons. Surface cultivated, 1,000 acres, Production, 1,000 gal- lons. Surface cultivated, 1,000 acres. Production, 1,000 gal- lons. 175 111 390 198 71 108 200 17, 013 7,555 108,228 30, 379 6,393 11,040 20, 341 200 131 524 222 74 114 185 44, 486 16, 062 362, 636 50,192 10,435 10, 540 23,504 279 161 363 54 30 67 161 85, 565 34, 844 143, 576 5,468 1,479 2,747 12, 733 Pyreuees-Orientales I It; ran It G-ard . . Bouches-du-Rh6ne Var In this connection the following table of importation and exportation at the port of Marseilles may be a more striking evidence of the vicissi- tudes undergone by the production of ordinany wine in southern France: 1862. 1867. 1872. 1877. 1882. 185 206 263 563 1 60r> 202 1 308 355 13 175 188 Exportation gallons.. 267, 544 6, 045, 848 7, 806, 1«J8 5, 719, 651 4, 602, 899 THE "VINE IN SOUTHERN FRANCE. 799 The emotion created by the ravages of phylloxera was immense, and the French Government instituted a prize of 300,000 francs to be awarded by a special committee sitting at Paris every year to examine into the progress of the disease and that made in counteracting its effect. In its last sitting, which took place this year, the committee decided that submersion, sulphide of carbon, and sulpho-carbonate of potas- sium should again be recommended for the year 1884, and admitted that it would be well to use American vines as u graft bearers," partic- ularly the Riparia, Solon, York, Madeira, and Jacquez. It finally de- cided that the prize of 300,000 francs should once more be reserved, as none of the remedies so far invented were of a sufficiently effective character to justify its being granted. As I have already remarked, there are but very few places in this region which can dispose of a sufficient supply of water to make the submersion system available. The appliance of sulphide of carbon is costly, and although it has proved an efficient preventive, it does not appear to possess marked curative efficiency. In consequence, the planting of American vines has met in this part of the country with general favor, and it is ex- pected that in a few years hence all the vineyards that have been destroyed will be renovated by means of American plants. Most satisfactory results have been obtained wherever the experiment was made. M. Keynaud, our consular agent at Toulon, informs me that he planted several acres of his property with Eiparia and Jacquez vines on which he grafted the French varieties previously grown on the same soil. After three years, he reaped 3,360 liters per hectare (a result some- what superior to the average) of a wine that was in all respects the same as was formerly produced by the original French plants. His plantation does not suffer in the least from phylloxera, but requires more cultivating and fertilizing than the French vines. Mildew. — It was not until last year that mildew caused noticeable damage in the vineyards of France. No means have yet been found out to counteract the disease. In fact very little is known so far about it and the conditions under which it propagates. It has been noticed that vines planted near the sea-shore were more liable to it, and the prevalent opinion is that mildew is caused by a persistence of moderate moisture in the atmosphere, which is of very rare occurrence in this cli- mate, except in the month of September. As the crops have already come to maturity by that time, and the disease seems to attack the leaves only, no great anxiety is felt here concerning it. Wine-making. — The making of wine is, in the southern region of France, carried on in the most simple method. A dry, sunny day is selected, when practicable, for the picking of the grapes, which must be ended before sunset. All the grapes are placed, just as picked from the vine, in immense wooden or masonry vats of from four to six thou- sand liters7 capacity, and trampled under the feet of a number of men 800 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. sufficient to permit of the operation being completed in one day. The " must " is left to ferment in the vats some eight days, and then de- canted into barrels, which are not bunged until fermentation has stopped, that is, forty or fifty days. As the producer generally sells his wine at once to the merchant, he does not submit it to any of the many manipulations that take place in the traders7 cellars. The only practice in force is to sprinkle the top layer of the grapes in the vats with a small quantity of plaster, which, it is claimed, gives to the wine a better color and a slight degree of astringency necessary to its preservation. J. S. MARTIN, Vice-consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Marseilles, March 1, 1884. CHAMPAGNE. REPORT BY CONSUL FR1SBIE, OF RHEIHS. [Republislied from Consular Reports No. 41^.] I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Department's circular dated December 4, 1883, with interrogatories regarding grape culture, methods of cultivation, etc., in the best conducted vineyards, and the method in practice for raisin culture ; which interrogatories have been prepared and submitted at the request of some of the leading fruit- growers of California. I realize that the subject is one of considerable importance, and shall be glad if I can furnish anything of interest and profit to the great industry centered in the cultivation of the vine in the United States. In the first place, however, I am estopped from giving any information regarding raisin culture from the fact that no grapes are grown in this consular district for that purpose, the climate and soil not being suitable. The vineyards here are cultivated and the grapes grown for the ex- clusive purpose of manufacturing champagne sparkling wine,^the best growths always being used for that purpose, the manufacture of table and dessert wines for commercial purposes having entirely ceased in the champagne district. Recognizing the importance of the cultivation of the vine and the manufacture of its product to a large class of cultivators in the United States, soon after my arrival at this consulate I began an earnest study of the subject, and in the spring of 1882 I communicated to the Depart- ment, in three separate reports, the results of my investigations, which were soon after published in the monthly consular reports. In those reports I wrote all there was to be written on the subject, in so far as I THE VINE IN CHAMPAGNE. 801 could inform myself at the time, and I have really learned but little new or interesting touching the matter since. However, as a greatly increased interest seems to have sprung up among all classes of our people within a short time past in regard to the importance and value of consular reports, and as very many are now interested readers who never read them before, and as the reports now called for are for the special benefit of a class of interested cultivators, I have thought it well for me to go back to the minutes of my study of the subject two years ago and give our California friends and other vine-growers a re- cast of what I then learned about the cultivation of the vine in the champagne district and the manufacture of its product, together with such new facts as I shall be able to give, believing that it will now come under the notice of many new and appreciative readers. As far as the champagne country is concerned there can be no doubt that the vine has been cultivated since the most remote times, the dry and chalky soil of the surrounding hills and valleys being specially adapted to the cultivation of the vine. The cultivation of the vine in the province of Champagne, in the department of the Marne, and par- ticularly in the districts of Rheims and Epernay, is, according to the most reliable authorities, of very ancient date. One writer says : "Strong men, we know, lived before Agamemnon, and strong wine was made in the fair province of Champagne long before the days of the sagacious old monk, Don Perignon, to whom the world is indebted for the spark- ling vintage known under the now familiar name of champagne." Cato the elder informs us that in his day vine plants were brought into Italy from Gaul; and Cicero, in his speech on behalf of Fonteius, refers to the great trade in wine carried on by the Gauls, of which at that time Kheims was the capital. Domitian ordered all the vines in Champagne to be uprooted and destroyed. He had an idea that the culture of the vine caused people to neglect that of cereals and general agriculture, and he also feared that the desire of drinking wine would attract the barbarians to the country. It was not until about two centuries later (280 A. D.) that they were replaced by the Emperor Probus. There are several groups of low hills situated on the banks of the Marne and the Yesle, possessing a light, shallow soil, and with a per- vious understratum principally composed of Tertiary layers and of chalk, with a mixture of silica and light clay, combined with a varying pro- portion of oxide of iron. These groups of hills are finely situated for sunshine, and of very little good for the cultivation of other vegetable produce. Such advantages as these seem to point to a special provision of nature for the cultivation of the vine. Poor, sometimes even barren soils, so long as they are easily accessible to air and water, are, as every one here will tell you, quite sufficient for its growth. If the first attempts at cultivation were crowned with success, still it was not till a comparatively recent date, which we may fix at the last 802 FRUIT CULTURE IN .FOREIGN COUNTRIES. quarter ot the preceding century, that this industry sprang into im- portance. It was, indeed, from this time, that champagne wines, already renowned for their fineness and lightness, began to be the object of new experiments. These resulted in a gradual increase and improvement in vine-growing and to the perfecting of the produce. Sixteen thousand five hundred hectares (about 40,700 acres) are at the present time devoted, in the department of the Marne, to the cultivation of the vine. In each district the nature and situation of the soil, and more especially the experience of vine-growers, partly founded on tradi- tion, have led to the adoption of different kinds of vines and various modes of culture. Unquestionably the finest grapes are produced in the hilly regions in the neighborhood of Rheims and Yertus.' The wines coming from the slopes of these hills have long been celebrated ; the first under the name of river wines, and the second under the name of hill icines; but this dis- tinction has nearly ceased since the appropriation of wines of a certain quality for the manufacture of sparkling champagne. The most renowned vineyards extend — 1. Along the right bank of the Marne from Mareuil to Damery. Along the line of railway from Paris to Rheims, the traveler sees on his left in succession the fertile hills of Damery, Cumieres, Hautvillers, Dizy-la-Riviere, and Ay. Further on, as the line curves, those of Ma- reul, Bouzy, Ambonnay, and Tr^pail come into view. 2. On the slope which faces the Vesle and the city of Eheims are the not less prosperous ones of Yilly, Mailly, Tiliery, Yerzenay, and Yerzy. 3. On the left bank of the Marne, 4 or 5 miles from the railroad and the river, lie the celebrated vineyards of Epernay, Pierry, Cuis, Oramant, Le Mesnil, and Avize. Not far from these vineyards, from which are made the celebrated champagne sparkling wines, are others of less pretensions, which produce red table wines of some value. In the districts of Chalons, Yitry, and Ste.-Menehould, only wines of less value are produced, which are seldom used in the manufacture of champagne. In these different localities the principal kinds of wines grown are : White grapes, tipinette, or the white morillon, and the large vert-dore of Ay; red grapes, the pineaux, and among them the small vert-dore", distinguished by its compressed, irregular bunches of middling- sized grapes, by its large leaves, somewhat rough on the upper and smooth on the under side, lobed, and but little indented. The epinette is a pro- lific bearer, and its round, transparent berries, which hang in no very compact clusters, are both juicy and sweet. It ripens much earlier than either the other varieties. The vert-dore is robust and productive, but yielding a less generous wine than the pineau, the plant dor6 of Ay, and the berries of which are dark and oval, and very thin-skinned, and re- markably sweet and juicf. One variety is the plant gris, or burot, a somewhat delicate vine, whose fruit has a brownish tinge, and yields a light and perfumed wine. THE VINE IN CHAMPAGNE. 803 There are several other species of vine of second rank, cultivated in the champagne vineyards, notably the common meunier, or miller, bear- ing black grapes, and which derives its name from the circumstance of the young leaves appearing to have been sprinkled with flour. There are also the black and white gonais, the meslier, a prolific white variety, yielding a wine of fair quality; the black and white gamais ; the tour- lrissou. The plantation has been made in grafts and soude"s de Folle, or Jacqne/, JSohmis or York. Five ranks have been planted in roots, not grafted, of Rupe.-iris. Solouis, York, Riparia, Jacquez, etc. A part will be grafted in some mouths in places ; the other parts will serve as witnesses, and will furnish tin- slips. As I have already said, all these vines are very fine; many of the grafted plants bear grapes this year, that is to say of the second leaf; and it is hoped, if there is no accident, that the harvest will largely cover expenses of culture. Another vine is found on the high road to Saintes near Yourezac, and if I am well informed it is the admiration of all who have seen it. The ground is reddish, flinty clay, above an under soil of chaple of 60 centimeters and over of depth. The graftings employed are the Solouis, the York, the Jacquez. They have not hern able to cultivate there the Rupestris aud Riparia; these two were wanting, but t hey will be vigorously developed. The plantation has been made in soldered grafts ; some feet only of roots not grafted are cultivated as specimens. For manure, 5 cubic meters of manure have been employed from the farm. This is not excessive, and the vine-growers are advised to use more on the new plantations (for the grafts and sonde"s it is important above all that the first year the vegetation should be very vigorous in order that the closing of the cuts may be more perfect in the folds) ; but I insisted that in order to render our vines demonstrative as rapidly ;,- possible they must be planted under rather bad conditions. The field of demonstration of Cronin has been planted 111 a great part with roots of Jacquez, Solonis, Rupestris, and York, which will be grafted in the coming spring. The grafts soude"s occupy but five ranks ; here they will be able to judge in the same ground of the comparative value of the plantations of grafts soudds and of planta- tions made with the roots planted and grafted on the spot. Up to the present these vines are all very vigorous ; all the fields of demonstration have been broken up to a depth of from 40 to 45 centimeters by the hand or by the plow, afterwards the plantation has been made in holes, the roots of the young plants being cut 15 or 20 centimeters in length. Some persons planted the roots with a bar, grafted or not, after cutting the roots smooth. This is a bad system of planting ; above all for the plants grafted and sol- dered. It has already been said that these plants ought to vegetate vigorously the first year, in order tnat the solder may be completed. It is important, then, to leave them all their roots. The planting with a bar, which requires their suppression, or at least their reduction to almost nothing, is not suitable to grafts soude"s. To sum up, the vines of demonstration of the committee leave nothing to desire (those of Jarnac excepted), and these certainly count for something in the great en- thusiasm manifested in favor of American vines in the borderies near Chateau Neuf, etc. RECONSTRUCTING THE VINEYARDS WITH AMERICAN PLANTS. What prevents many from planting American vines is that they believe these plantations are very expensive. We will try to show that it is not so. Without doubt the plantations made with plants grafted and soldered, taken from the nursery gardens, come very dear, and this is not a very practical way of recon- structing to a great extent; but these same plants can be raised here, and then the cost is insignificant. With a thousand slips of Jacquez one meter in length they can make three thou- sand grafted slips. Put in nursery gardens and well cultivated, they can give a 812 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. harvest of 50 per cent. ; some in the neighborhood of Cognac obtained even 60 and *0 per cent ; say 1,500 plants grafted, which will have cost the enormous sum of $2. This is the price of 1,000 slips of Jacquez; with the Solonis, Riparia, Vialla, the price would be a little higher. We do not mention here the expense of hand work of grafting, or' the culture of the mirsury slips, etc., for this kind of work can be done in the evening by the fireside, or on rainy days, etc. But these plants will yield some grapes the second year, and a passable harvest the third year. I can mention here a vine at St Merne which has yielded four barrels of wine to the journal at its second leaf. Besides, in the Beaujo- lais they often harvest the second year of planting, always the third ; while the French vines generally produce but at the fifth, sixth, or even the seventh year. Dare we add that the American vines grafted produce a third more than the French vines ; this, however, is the exact truth. The grafted slips are, then, a rapid and economical means of reconstructing vine- yards; but they can operate differently and just as economically. Instead of graft- ing the slips on the stalk they can graft on the roots, and so put them in the nursery. The success of the grafting is better and the plants finer. Another economical means is good; to put the slips of 45 or 50 centimeters long in a nursery and graft them there the following year, and plant the vines afterwards the second year where the grafting has succeeded. The slips themselves cost from 4 to 15 francs per thousand, according to the graft bearers; that is less than the Folle-Blanche, and St. Emilion cost. They can also plant the roots, which are grafted where they are at the end of a year from planting. If the grafting succeeds, the vines are thus very vigorous, but in one locality the grafting in place often gives but very insignificant results. The cause appears to be the cold and moist climate. The reasons are not very well known, but they can very easily obviate that inconvenience, or at least attenuate its effects. It suffices to make at the same time the grafting takes place a nursery of grafts and soude's with which they can replace all the failures. Some graft the roots on table and at once plant in nursery. This is a bad proceed- ing, for it has all the inconveniences of grafting in place and of grafting on table with- out the advantages. They succeed well sometimes, but very rarely. The breaking up of the ground is what costs the dearest. The American vines require a ground well broken up, but when they understand it a hectare of laud can be broken up with a plow for 150 francs ($30) or less. Besides, the expense of breaking up of plantation of grafting might be still greater, the two or three harvests that the grafted American vines produce sooner than French vines would more than cover the expense. If we add that they produce more during their duration; and that, thanks to them, the blight is no more to be feared, or at least it will not be very serious. We shall have shown what every one already knows, that if the American vines have some inconveniences, they offer also serious advan- tages. Grafting still frightens many: but the school of graftage which will be open three months at Cognac will offer them an opportunity to convince themselves tliat there is nothing in the world so simple or so easy to do. As for the difficulties of the choice in best graft-bearers for a given soil, they are not very great. It is well understood to-day what lands are suitable for the usual graft-bearers; such as Riparia, Solonis, Jacquez, Vialla, York Madeira,' etc. Besides, in many of the lands of the arrondisse- ment all these old vines can give good results. Where the difficulty commences is where the proportion of calcaire becomes considerable; but this is a question we will examine later. Hereafter they can plant without hesitation the American vines in a large part of the arrondissement. We can not give exact figures; but after what I have observed in my voyages for the gratuitous distribution, I believe I am not far from the truth in estimating it as about one-half of the total surface of the arron- di&sement. CULTURE OF THE VINE IN COGNAC. 813 That is, then, 30,000 hectares where American vines can now he planted in all security; that is to say, the area of the old vineyards before the phylloxera. Here is a list of communes where success is certain : Cognac, Crouin, Saint-Laurent, Louzac, Saint-Andre, Saint-Sulpice, Cherves, Bouthiers, Breville, Saint-Seve~re, Houlette, Ncr- cillac, Repanao, Julienne, Chassors.Jarnac, Bourg-Charente, Saiut-Brice, Gondeville, Saint-Amant de Graves, les Graves, Chateauueuf, Mosnac, Saint-Snrin, Saint-Simon, Triac, some parts of FKurac, Foussignac, Sigonne, Ars, Maiuxe, Saint Preuil, Tou- zac, Malaville, Bouteville in Champagne. Besides the nature of the lands, which can not deceive us, plantations dating al- ready from several years show that in these communes American vines work well and give good results. AMERICAN VINES IN CALCAREOUS SOILS. For the lands of Champagne and of Groie we are less favored. For the most part American vines which have there been cultivated have not prospered well. But it will be seen that we need not despair of finding one, and perhaps several, graft-bearers which will develop very well. Let us first see what is the organization of our fields of experiments. These fields, four in Champagne, with Henry Perriu, of Boussac ; Henry Pelletant, of Gente" ; Aime" Richard, of Louzac; Filloux, of Angeac. The fifth, in Groie, with Mr. Arsandeau at Sigonne. Two other experimental fields will be created this year. One in the Groie will be planted exclusively with varieties which have already given good results in Champagne. The other, in Champagne, will receive from two hundred to two hun- dred and fifty new varieties. We will have, also, in the spring of this year, from four hundred and fifty to five hundred varieties on trial, all very rare, and all recom- mended for diverse reasons for calcareous soils. It is the unique collection of the world. Each variety is represented, as far as possible, by ten, twenty, thirty, or forty slips in each field. The Berlandieri, Cinerea, and Cordi folia vines are the most numerous. Half of these will be grafted, the rest not ; so that we can judge of the value of each old vine as a graft-bearer and direct producer (for many can do both) and the influ- ence of grafting on each one of them. All these varieties resist the phylloxera ; most are unharmed, others carry it on their roots but do not suffer from it. The phylloxera in our judgment is the most inoffensive insect, and in what follows it will not be in question. The soil is the great enemy of the vines. ]t is not then a study to find a vine that will resist the phylloxera (there are thousands), but to find a vine that will not only resist phylloxera, but also prosper in lauds of Champagne and Groie. This, we shall see, is not far from achievement. CHLOROSIS IN AMERICAN VINES. Before examining in detail how American vines prosper in calcareous soils, we should endeavor perhaps to find out what are the causes of non-success of most of them in these lands. Notwithstanding the number of works already published on this subject, which do not throw much light on it, I have not at present any plausible explanation to give for want of success. I do not, therefore, give any detailed examination of opinions which have been expressed on the subject. I merely observe that many are in con- tradiction with certain facts, which all have had occasion to observe. The chlorosis of the vines, grafted or not, and the stunting which follows, have turn by turn been attributed to moisture, to drought, or to these two elements com- bined; to want of coloring in the soil, want of iron; to want of light or too much light ; to climate, to the calcareous soil itself, etc. The influence of too much moisture on the vegetation of the vines can not be denied. I even believe that it may become a serious cause of failure; l»ut to attribute all cases of chlorosis to moisture is clearly 814 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. an exaggeration, as I have seen vines planted in very moist lands (the water re- mained on the surface from October to June, and the culture was impossible, save at rare and short »ntervals) that never grew yellow ; and I have more than mere doubts about the part that moisture plays in turning the leaves yellow. Indeed, the stains of chlorosis which at times are noticed in the vineyards in ques- tion are always on the hillsides, where water never remains and where the soil and subsoil are neither too moist nor too dry. Besides, the chlorosis is never very dan- gerous which can be attributed to excess of moisture. It appears chiefly in the spring, and in the course of vegetation it disappears. The influence of drought is equally great. I have often noticed vines that were planted in very dry land. After a few days of sun and a slight breeze to dry the land entirely, the leaves fade and the grapes wither and fall, but no chlorosis. As for the alternatives of drought and moisture, these seem to be the natural con. ditions of vegetation. Under this hypothesis, calcareous lands absorb much water, then rapidly dry ; at first drowning the roots, then leaving them completely dry. The chalky lands in the vicinity of Cogaac do not swell with water, and a few hours after rain they can be easily worked. They do not dry up either. We have never observed vines suffer from chlorosis, although it is in such lands as these that chlorosis is most intense. Iron seems to play a certain role in the formation of the green matter of the leaves ; some have even supposed that the yellow color might be owing to this element in the soil; but this is not so. For a long time past it has been remarked that the white soil (where this cause is chiefly placed) is as rich in iron as highly colored lands. This metal, it is true, is not found there in the same state of oxidation and of lia- bility to assimilation ; but it matters little, since the roots which grow in the white soil contain as much ifon as those growing in soil very rich in color. Besides, most of the land of Groie in the Charentes where American vines do not thrive is the most highly colored, the soil being very red, and consequently ought to contain more oxide of iron in the best state to assimilate. It must, however, be said that an addition to the soil of a solution of sulphate of iron poured at the foot of the roots has a happy action on the formation of the green matter of the leaves. This is the result obtained from numerous trials made in laud of Groie * by Mr. Jord in the Charente-Infe'rieure. The same result I have myself obtained from experiments made in laud of Champagne. But this action of sulphate of iron is very limited ; the vines thus treated are a little less yellow, that is all the difference. The slight overheating of the soil, which results from want of coloring on the sur- face, does not account for the greater part of cases of chlorosis. The lands of groie, it has already been stated, are colored red or ocher ; the heating of the soil is almost too intense. The greater part of the land of Champagne has a deep gray, or even black color, like marsh-land. The same may be said of the pretended influence of light, which, according to some, is one cause of chlorosis when it is not intense, and according to others whe^ it is ex- cessive. As for the climate, it surely plays a certain role in the adaptation ; but generally speaking, the more it is soft, temperate, and, above all, less burning, the more it fa- vors the development of American vines. And this is so true that in the south of France the Riparia rupestris and Jacquez solonis are almost the sole vines cultivated as graft bearers, while less-heated regions cultivate many more. The Vialla, which does not grow badly in the south, vegetates here very well, and equally well in the Beaujolais. It is quite the best for light lauds that are silicious. The Herbemont, that turns yellow so rapidly and is stunted in the Herault, thrives in analogous soils of the Charentes, and even in bad soils it grows vigorously. The same is true of the Oporto, York Madeira, etc. It is clear that the phyloxera makes * Groie: Light, yellow soil, mixed with chalk-stonea. CULTURE OF THE VINE IN COGNAC. 815 less ravage in moist and temperate climates, and that is owing to the fact that the moist lands are more favorable to the vegetation of the vine than very hot and burn- ing lands. The Mediterranean region is not, therefore, considered any more as a fav are also a permanent staple in the consumption of the eastern part of the territory, and all are ex- cellent for table use, being cultivated along with others for the exclusive purpose. In proceeding westward the soil, with the constant predominance of the calcareous element, but with a larger admixture of scoriae and vol- canic matter, lends itself to the production of stronger and richer qual- ities both of fruit and wine. This is particularly the case in the ex- treme westward districts of the territory, where the hills of Verona are almost exclusively composed of the detritus of Cretaceous strata, mingled with quartz and the disaggregation of basalt and friable basaltic tufa. The vine prospers everywhere, varying with the differences of the region ; sweet but light and watery on the limestone of the plain ; deep-colored, strong, and aromatic on the basaltic hills to the east j rough and tonic on the glacial accumulations beyond the Adige. INTERCROP CULTIVATION IN VINEYARDS. The practice of cultivating for other crops the spaces between the vines is universal; in fact, the vine can hardly be said to have any dis- tinct apportionment, but rather to be superadded as the necessary garniture of every field, which, regardless of its presence, is tilled in all respects according to the ordinary agricultural routine of the country, and this double culture only fails where the situation is so precipitous or so bare as to make any product but that of the vine out of the question. PROFITS OF VINE CULTURE. According to situation and treatment, the vine begins to become profitable at about three years, and is in full bearing at six. Throughout the Venetian provinces in strong contrast with those of Lombardy, artificial irrigation is little developed ; in several it is al- most unknown, and where it exists is much more in request for meadow and other culture. The vine, intermingled with other crops, may re- ceive an interloper's share of the common benefit, but the localities which it prefers, as well as the nature of the plant, mostly place it without the scope of any special arrangement for the purpose. Occu- pying, besides, no special place in the apportionment of the farm, its balance of outlay and return is always liable to be confounded with the general mass of operations for the year, while the selling price of its product differing more widely with slight shades of real merit, and often depending on an artificial or fanciful value of appreciation, the ordinary calculations of commerce are not easily adjusted to it. Estimates vary greatly in official as well as professional publications. The following data, however, are the most detailed that I have been able to procure, and may represent oue of the most successful and best-conducted vine- yards of Verona : 846 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Expense per acre for harrowing, hoeing, etc - $4.80 Expense per acre for manuring 3.20 Expense per acre for pruning, osiers and stakes 3. 60 Expense per acre for leafing 40 Expense per acre for sulphur 2.40 Expense per acre for gathering 96 Expense per acre for "bringing in 40 Total-.. . 15.76 Product, 1,200 kilograms of grapes, at .04 48.00 To illustrate the extraordinary differences of return to which the in- dustry is subject, independently of outlay or treatment, an estimate purporting to represent facts may be cited from a parliamentary return on the subject. The comparison is limited to a parcel of 60 vines mar- ried to 15 trees, and provided each with 5 additional sustaining stakes, and the expense incurred, in each case the same, is : 300 stakes, at 2 cents each _•_ $6.00 Pruning (6 days' work) 1.20 Sulphur (30 kilograms, at 5 cents) 1.50 Sulphnration (2 days' work) , 40 Vintage (10 days' work) 1.60 Total.. . 10.79 MAXIMUM PRODUCT. 3,532 pounds of grapes $46.40 444 pounds of wood 1.19 Total 47.59 MINIMUM PRODUCT. 444 pounds of grapes $5.80 222 pounds of wood 60 Total 6.40 MCWALTER E. NOTES, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Venice, March 3, 1884. RUSSIA. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL STANTON, OF ST. PETERSBURG. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 30.} Along the shores of the Black Sea, Sea of Azof, and on both sides of the Caucasian Mountains, Russia possesses a vast territory devoted to the culture of the grape. Astrachau may be considered as the home of JRussian grape culture, since the first vines were planted there at the THE VINE IN RUSSIA. 847 beginning of the seventeenth century. During the latter half of the same century Kussiau vintners were sent to the river Terek, and laid the foundation of the present grape culture in that district. In Transcaucasia the culture of the vine dates back to immemorial times, and the opinion prevails that the diffusion of the grape-vine over Europe proceeded from this country. In the Taurida peninsula and modern Bessarabia the grape culture owes its origin to the Grecian colonies founded there some six centuries 'before the Christian era. Old Grecian amphora, which have been found on the banks of the Don, justify the inference that the Greeks extended the culture of the grape to these districts also. In the Crimea, grape culture attained its prime between the eleventh and fifteenth centuries, under the dominion of the Genoese. Under the Tartars, however, it fell into decay, similar to that of the Caucasian dis- tricts under the rule of the Turks and Persians. With the accession of the Russians the grape culture began to flourish again, and was ex- tended by them to the Kuban and Terek districts. In the following short review of the grape culture in the various dis- tricts of Russia, the data given (with the exception of Bessarabia and the Don districts) refer to the period of 1870 and 1874. GEAPE CULTURE IN EUROPEAN RUSSIA. 1. In Bessarabia the culture of the vine extends over the whole Gov- ernment and into the bordering districts of the Governments of Kerson and Podolia. In 1870 the yield was 965,250 gallons of wine, and, accord- ing to official data, in 1879 Bessarabia alone produced 18,756,000 gallons. The wines are generally light, the red varieties resembling the French, the white the Rhine wines. The wines produced in Bessarabia from French and Rhenish vines are known in trade as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhinewine, Sauterne, etc., the label indicating also the district in which the wine was grown. The best known are the Ackermann, the Odessa, and those of the Bulgarian colony. The majority of the grape-growers sell young and unfermented wines to dealers, and in the whole district but six wine-growers made and sold a finished wine under their own names. 2. In the Crimea grapes are cultivated throughout the whole Taurida peninsula, but only four districts are of importance, viz, Yalta, JTiipa- toria, Simferopol, and Feodosia. Compared with the rest of Russia, grape culture has attained its greatest perfection in the Crimea. The newest methods are adopted, and relatively a large number of vine-growers, particularly those on the southern shores, make and sell their own wine under their own names in St. Petersburg and Moscow. The Government has paid the greatest attention to grape culture in the Crimea. In 1812 the Imperial Nikita garden was laid out on the southern shores in the vicinity of Yalta; and in 1828 the Margaratsch 848 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. school of vine culture was established. In 1868 the above-mentioned garden was transformed into the Nikita vintage and gardening school, but Margaratsch school remained unaltered, in order that the students of the Nikita institute might learn grape culture practically. In 1870, 3,037,500 gallons of grape juice was pressed in the Crimea. The yield of this district has steadily increased since the beginning of the present century, viz, in 1823, 466,154 gallons ; 1849, 2,119,000 gal- lons ; 1853, 650,000 gallons ; 1870, 3,037,500 gallons. In the district of Yalta the yield has increased as follows, from 1861 to 1871, viz : GallouB. 1861-1863, annual average 298,854 1864-1866, annual average 382,846 1867-1869, annual average 506,557 1870-1872, annual average 1,130,676 The Crimean vintners pass the grapes through a kind of grater, in order to separate them from the stems, the juice flowing into double- bottomed vats, the upper one being perforated, and the berries are then put in the press. Ordinarily the wine-presses are of wood and of the simplest construction. The must is filled into casks, in which it re- mains 24 hours, when it is poured into other casks, where it remains fermenting from 10 to 12 days, being kept at a temperature of from 16° to 22° Celsius. When fermentation ceases the partially empty casks are refilled. The first transfusion takes place in December, the second and third in March and September. For clarifying, gelatine and isinglass are used, and at times, for red wines, albumen also. The major- ity of the vine-growers sell their wine to wine dealers in unfermented and unripe condition, by whom it is perfected and put upon the market. In the main the Crimean wines are known by the name of the estate in whose cellars they have ripened, sometimes by the name of the grape they are pressed from. They are consumed throughout Eussia and also abroad. In 1872 and 1873 the Yalta district exported 364,443 gal- lons and 212,904 pounds of wine. 3. The Don wine district lies in the Government of the Cossacks, and owes its existence to Peter the Great. Up to 1820 the annual yield was not more than 65,000 gallons, while in 1870 it was not less than 4,875,000 gallons. The grape-growers seldom make any wine them- selves, but sell their crops to wine-makers called " Vinniki." Fresh and dried grapes are used for wine-making, and that made ¥rom the latter is the best and strongest. The wine is seldom ripened and clari- fied by the "Vinniki," but transferred by them to wine dealers for this purpose. Generally the Don wines are light, watery, and keep badly. A certain quantity is employed in the manufacture of "Don cham- pagne." Those vine-growers who make wine for their own consump- tion pay the greatest attention to its manufacture, and produce an article which will compare favorably with many a European wine. These wines are not in the market, however, but only the very inferior article produced by the " Vinniki." 4. The Astrachan wine district embraces the lower reaches of the THE VINE IN RUSSIA. 849 Volga lying in this district. The wine production is unimportant, since the grapes, which enjoy a good reputation, are sold as fruit. In 1870 not more than 48,750 gallons were produced, and, according to official data in 1880, one firm made $15,000 worth of wine. CAUCASIAN DISTRICTS. The culture of the grape is carried on north of the Caucasian Mount ain chain in four districts, viz, the Kuban, the Kumaschia, the Terek, and the Daghestanian. The Terek-Kumyksian district produces the greatest quantity, viz, in 1870, 4,875,000 gallons; in 1874, 9,750,000 gallons. These wines are quite celebrated among Caucasian wines, about 1,625,000 gallons being sold annually at the Nischni-^ovgorod fair. Grape-pressing in this district is done in vats and troughs, with the hands and feet. The must ferments in casks, in which it remains until autumn, when it is clarified and put on the market. The Kuma district ranks second, and produces annually from 812,000 to 975,000 gallons. The wine of this region is sold after the first fermentation, is light and watery, and consumed chiefly in the Novgorod arrul Black Sea districts. In Daghestan about 487,500 gallons of a wine is produced which is chiefly consumed by Caucasian Mussulmans. In the Kuban district grape culture is of recent date, and the wine produced is con- sumed on the spot. In 1870 the production was about 18,200 gallons ; in 1873, 33,508 gallons. In Transcaucasia not less than 32,500,000 gallons of wine are annu- ally produced. The province may be divided into five districts, viz : 1. The Eion-Black Sea district, which yielded in 1870 10,725,000 gallons ; 2. Kachetian, yielding 9,725,000 gallons ; 3. The Kura district, with an annual production of 4,872,500 gallons ; 4. The Arax district, yielding 3,250,000 gallons ; and the 5. Shemahka district, producing 325,000 gallons. The Circassian wines are for the most part consumed in that province, but latterly the better varieties are finding a market in the leading cities of Russia. The best wines are round in the Kachetian and Black Sea districts, where red wines especially are of good quality. The Govern- ment of Erivan produces the strongest wines. Only about one-third of the annual production finds its way into the markets, the larger portion being reserved for private consumption. In Kachetia the vintners erect a peculiar style of barn called " ma- ralyen," in which are placed wooden or stone presses, whose floors slope to an opening for the issue of the wine. Abpve the press is a beam, to which the laborers cling whilst treading out the grape juice with their feet. Earthen jars serve as receptacles. The must first issuing is separated from that resulting from an increased pressure. The former yields a poor and weak, the latter a better and stronger, wine. The fer- mentation takes place in jars. White wines ferment from eight to ten, 850 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. red wines from three to seven, days, when they are transferred to new jars. The lees are used for the distillation of brandy. The wine remains in lightly closed jars, which are buried in the ground until December, when they are hermetically closed and covered with about 2 feet of earth. This method of wine-making prevails, with slight alterations, throughout the Caucasian wine districts. In Transcaucasia the wine is transported in goat-skin bags, and generally sold in them. The casks are smeared with fat or kerosene, which gives the wine a disagreeable taste. The vine is also cultivated in Turkestan, and to some extent brandy and wines are made. RUSSIAN VS. FOREIGN WINES. The great drawback to Russian wines is the faulty manner of pre- paring them, which leaves much to be desired, especially as regards their keeping qualities. There is, moreover, a great deal of mixing and adulteration practiced in the districts where the wine is grown. Wines of various vintages are constantly mixed, causing a great variation in the quality of the wines. Dealers are also in the habit of adding various ingredients to the unripe wine for the purpose of counterfeiting the better known varieties of foreign wines. Laterally, in consequence of the depredations of the phylloxera in France, foreigners have appeared in certain districts who buy up the new wine and export it abroad, whence it returns labeled as French wine. The habit prevailing in so many lands of giving the foreign product the preference over the home- made article is a serious obstacle to the development of the Eussian wine trade. The majority of Eussian consumers prefer the imitations sold as Madeira, Sherry, Bordeaux, etc., to the natural Crimean wines. The Crimean, the Kachetian, the Bessarabian, Don, and Astrachan wines are better than the others. All have not been carefully analyzed, but in 1864 and 1870 many of the better varieties were analyzed in Moscow and Odessa. The dessert wines have the greatest specific weight, the table wines (vins ordinaires) the least. All carefully-pre- pared and well-fermented Russian wines are as a rule stronger than foreign wines made from the same variety of grapes. The Eussian wines, classified according to their acidity, rank as fol- lows, viz : The Bessarabian red wines are the sourest; thenVome the Caucasian and Crimean red wines, the Caucasian and Bessarabian white wines, and the Crimean dessert wines. Altogether the Eussian red wines, as regards acidity, resemble most the French red wines; the white wines are less sour than the German wines. The Eussian red wines contain more tannin than the French ones, while the white wines have little or none. TOTAL WINE PRODUCT. The grape-growing districts of Eussia and Caucasia yield annually not less than 48,750yOOO gallons of grape juice, nearly 16,125,000 gallons THE VINE IN DENIA. 851 of which are consumed on the spot, the remainder coming into the gen- eral market. The following table, shows the relation of that consumed, by the vintners to that consumed by the public. EDGAR STANTON, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, St. Petersburg, February 13, 1883. SPAIN. DENIA. REPORT BY CONSUL ARQUIMBATT. [Eepnblished from Consular Reports No. 41 J, ] The production of raisins in Denia for 1883 amounted to 2,800,000 boxes, of 28 pounds net each, valued at $4,200,000 ; the crop is consid- ered to be about the same as that of last year. These raisins are principally consumed in the United States and Eng- land ; the exports to the former amount to 979,000 boxes and to the latter 1,385,000 boxes, leaving a stock in the country of 436,000 boxes. The consumption in the United States has increased, although the price has been $1 higher for each 112 pounds during the past two years. I also observe that the fine qualities, such as those called " selected," have been in much request of late. Previously this grade was mostly consumed by the English markets. All raisins are prepared here by scalding, and the system is as fol- lows : They construct furnaces of feeble draft, in which wood is used as fuel. A round kettle, varying in capacity from 300 to 400 liters, re- ceives a lye formed from the residue or refuse of the grape after press- ing. The lye used is either that obtained from the present year or that which has been kept from the previous vintage. Placed in wire colan- ders, with long handles, containing 20 pounds each, the raisins are plunged in this lye, boiling at a temperature of about 212° Fahr. After this immersion the workmen examine the skins to note if they are suffi- ciently shriveled, and if not they are immersed again. Thus scalded, they are carried to the drying place, and, after a space of seven to ten days, from thence to the stores, where they are packed in boxes. The process of immersion is a very delicate one, and requires skillful watching and great judgment on the part of the workmen who conduct it. In reality, according to the quality of the skin, its resistance, which varies with the fruit, the immersion should be more or less rapid, at the risk of having the grapes burst ; besides, much skill is necessary to recognize the fissures which may appear. When the heat has been too great, the raisins too rich in sugar will mold shortly after having been packed. This process has the advantage of drying the fruit more rap- 852 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. idly than when only exposed to the sun, and avoiding by this chances of being damaged by rain while drying. American ships. — None have visited this port for many years, the en- tire freight business between this port and the United States being done by English steamers, which, from August to December, average three a week, loading from 200 to 1,200 tons each. Lumber for boxes. — Lumber being scarce and dear, it is largely im- ported into this district from Norway and Canada, for the manufacture of boxes for raisins and oranges. The last transaction I have informa- tion of was at £8 10s. lid. for spruce, St. Petersburg, standard 3 by 9 with deal ends. It seems to me that a portion of this business could be done, if well looked after, by dealers in the United States. So far I understand the business is transacted through London dealers with the said mentioned countries. JOHN D. ARQUIMBAU, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Denia, December 31, 1883. MALAGA. BEPOET BY CONSUL MARSTON. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 41|. ] Climate. — The climate of Malaga has the reputation of being the finest in the world for persons suffering from consumption and all diseases of the throat and chest, and many invalids are ordered by their physicians to this part of Spain, their only hope of recovery, or, in some instances, to extend their lives for a few short months. In many cases they die, away from family and friends, from the lack of mauy comforts easily obtained at home, but which a stranger never finds while temporarily residing in Malaga. People in Malaga during the winter season wear as heavy clothing as they do in the coldest season in America, but instead of wearing this heavy clothing in the open air they wear it in the house. Outside the air is balmy and spring-like, but the massive stone-built houses are cold with their marble floors (even to the fifth story), and in your walks along the promenades you will find the residents walking dressed in almost spring-like costume, while in your social visits, an hour after- wards, you will find them wrapped in shawls and cloaks suffering from the damp cold which a small fire would instantly dispel. One day of such experience would affect a person suffering from consumption more than a whole winter in a colder climate where home comforts could be more easily obtained. The hotels or boarding houses here offer no comforts to invalids ; they THE VINE IN MALAGA. 853 have no fire-places ; the floors, of marble or brick, are uncarpeted, and the porti6res and table-covers, if the rooms possess any at all, are faded and covered with the dust of ages. The fare of the table is generally of Spanish cookery, which, though sometimes not bad to one in health, is not such as an invalid could eat, and not nourishment in any sense to one of feeble digestion. Unquestionably the climate would arrest dis- ease if its hand was not too firmly posed ; but without the aids of com- forts, which are nowhere to be found in Malaga— in hostelries I mean — it is a cruelty to the invalid to be ordered here. There is, it seems to me, a fortune for some enterprising American who can " keep a hotel " with the American standard of comfort ; but it would take time to draw the winter visitors of former years, who, for the reasons I have given above, have sought cities more hospitable, though less gifted in climate. Situation. — The relative position of vineyards is about 80 per cent, of hill-side lands and inland, about 10 per cent, of valley and plains, and about 10 per cent, of sea-coast. Vines are said to grow equally well on sea- coast or island. The nearest vineyards to the sea-coast are about one-fourth of a mile. Sea fogs are seldom experienced at Malaga, and are not considered as injurious to the production of grapes ; on the contrary, they are bene- ficial. The valleys and table-lands when especially cultivated produce the best grapes. Pruning.— :Pruning-scissors with a spring are chiefly used here for pruning vines, and are considered in the best conducted vineyards as superior to all others, although the old custom of using something like a chisel, about 2 inches wide, very sharp, which cuts a " clean cut," is still used by many in this province. Vineyards are pruned once a year, viz, in the months of November and December. Soil. — The nature of the soil on the mountains is clay slate; in the vegas or plains gravel, clay, and ferruginous earth. Planting. — The vineyards are generally planted in new lauds and when the soil becomes exhausted fertilizers are employed. Stable manure and street sweepings for table-lands have been found to be productive of fruitful vineyards. The usual distance between each vine is about 7 feet. Best results are obtained in valleys, table-lands, and plains inland, much better than on the hill-side, where the rains wash away all the richness from the soil to the plains beneath. Cultivation. — Lands are cultivated in the vineyards twice a year, viz : First, in December, cutting the branches ( within 1£ or 2 inches) from the root, where it protrudes from the ground, leaving only one single sprout ; then they clean perfectly the knob of the vine, removing all the soil to the depth of 10 or 12 inches. Second, in April, when they cover again the root with the earth, cutting away all grass and weeds, 854 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. which draw the richness from the soil. Later in the season, if there are any more grass or weeds they are pulled by hand. Maturity. — Vines come into full bearing at eight years old and last about thirty or forty years in fruitful condition if the land is good. Irrigation. — There is no system of artificial irrigation in practice in this province for grape culture, but all vines receive the necessary rains naturally during the winter and spring. Yield. — An estimated average yield per acre per annum is about 9,000 pouods of grapes, which will yield about one-third that amount when prepared as raisins, viz, 3,000 pounds, or 120 arrobas, at an average value of 30 reals veil on per arroba in the vineyard as they run, good and ordinary alike, which aggregates 3,600 reals vellon, or $180. From this must be deducted 20 per cent, of the total yield for all kinds of Govern- ment taxes, 10 per cent, on average production as interest on capital in- vested, and about 30 per cent, for cost of crop, leaving a profit to the producer of about 40 per cent, on the total yield. The figures are given for vineyards that are fruitful and healthy, free from phylloxera and other plagues ; but it would be impossible to at- tempt to average any particular crop, as years differ, from many unfore- seen causes. Picking. — The vintage season for raisins commences about 1st of Sep- tember each year, and the record of all statistics is calculated by vint- ages. I have prepared a table, annexed, marked A, containing a comparative statement, at parallel dates, of the raisin crop of Malaga, for each vint- age, for the five years ending August 31, 1883, including the amount exported, together with the names of the different countries to which these exportations were made. General exports of box raisins up to end of crop compared with other vintages at parallel dates. Crop of— 1882. 1881. 1880. 1879. 1878. United States 967 571 1 043 727 1 115 101 1 146 °28 1 182 088 British North American colonies........ 38 431 31 730 46 717 30 598 I 58, 242 Great Britain 176 379 141 415 174 126 237 659 194 471 277 253 251, 382 297 412 368 420 330, 767 North of Europe ... 130 646 101 828 108 222 107 888 99 661 West ludies and South America- ...... . 98 007 81, 196 75 456 63 688 98, 429 76, 842 72,746 92, 735 60, 330 65, 107 Coastwise and interior 1, 765, 099 102 901 1, 724, 024 75 976 1, 909, 769 105 231 2, 023, 811 101 189 2, 028, 765 151, 235 Total boxes (22 ponnds each) 1, 868, 000 1, 800, 000 2, 015, 000 2, 125, 000 2, 180, 000 UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Malaya, March 28, 1884. H. C. MARSTON, Consul. THE VINE IN MALAGA. 855 MALAGA. THE EXTENT TO WHICH GRAPES ARE CULTIVATED, AND THE MAN- NER OF THEIR PREPARATION FOR EXPORT. REPORT BY OOFSUL MARSTON. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 41|.] Notwithstanding the neglectful condition of agriculture in Andalusia, and the primitive processes still followed in many ways, the marvelous fertility of the soil impresses the most inattentive and indifferent ob- server. But among all the natural riches that abound in this luxuriant country, the most worthy of mention are the vines, so justly famous both through the celebrated wines and the delicious raisins, of which Malaga is the principal market for all Europe and the New World. It will, perhaps, be instructive to make some remarks on the produc- tion, preparation, and commerce of the raisins, which seems to me, although of ancient origin, to offer an attraction of novelty. There are two distinct vines, the muscatel and the Pero-Ximenez, the first indigenous, the second imported from the borders of the Ehine two hundred or two hundred and fifty years ago by a German, whose name, corrupted in Andalusia, was given to the vine. Opinions seem divided as to the respective merits of these two vines ; some insist that they are equally good, others that the muscatel are much the best. I give the decided preference to the muscatel. A box of raisins made from the muscatel, recently sent to the exposition at Moscow by a firm of Malaga, contained samples presenting the appearance of large prunes. The cultivation of the vine requires hard labor. The soil is dug out around the root, leaving a circular hole about 1 foot deep, and, owing to the firmness of the soil, the digging is very difficult. Manure of great strength is us^ed by many proprietors. Different from Meridional Italy, where the vine, always clinging to the elm, throws itself from the soil in forms of graceful arbor, as in the time of Horace and of Virgil, in this country it stretches itself over the ground and thus gathers all atmospheric heat. Thus, although white, the grape has a golden tint, the skin resisting and slightly tough. The branch appears like a root. The vintage is conducted with great care ; they do not gather all the fruit at one time, but mostly go over the same piece of ground thrice, in order that the grapes may have the necessary ripeness. There are three different methods of preparing the raisins, viz, wash- ing, drying by steam, and-the simple drying in the sun. The drying 1 >y steam is more particularly followed in the province of Denia, because of the insufficiency of solar heat. It is also employed in the south in case the season is wet during the vintage. The cut grapes are put in baskets and carried either on the backs of mules or donkeys or in carts to the places, often distant, where they 856 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. are prepared, and although they transport the fruit with great care, it suffers naturally ; the skin often breaks, which renders the drying diffi- cult, if not impossible. To dry the grapes by the washing method they construct furnaces of feeble draught, in which wood is used as fuel. A round kettle, varying in capacity from 300 to 400 liters, receives a lye formed from the residue or refuse of the grape after pressing. The lye used is either that obtained from the present year or that which has been kept from' the previous vintage. Placed in wire colanders with long handles, containing 2 or 3 kilo- grains each, the raisins are plunged in this lye, boiling at a temperature of about 212° Fahr. After this first immersion, the workmen examine if the skins are sufficiently shriveled ; if not, they immerse the grapes a second time, usually the last. Thus scalded, the grapes are carried to the drying place, and from thence to the stores, where they are packed in boxes. It is not difficult to imagine that the process of immersion is very delicate and requires skillful watching, and great judgment on the part of the workman who conducts it. In reality, according to the quality of the skin, its resistance, which varies with the fruit, the im- mersion should be more or less rapid, at the risk of having the grapes burst j besides, much skill is necessary to recognize the fissures which may appear. In cases where the heat has been too great, the raisins too rich in sugar will mold shortly after being packed. This process offers, among others, the inconvenience of exposing the raisins to fer- mentation during transportation, necessitates expense for the construc- tion of furnaces, and the necessary last drying in the sun ; besides, no matter what grapes employed, or what care bestowed in the preparation, the results will always be relatively inferior. The method of preparing raisins by steam is as follows : After having been exposed nearly twenty-four hours to the sun's rays, the grapes are carried on boards under cover to a building arranged with shelves 6 or 7 feet high. A heat is produced by steam that circulates in an iron tube 7 or 8 inches in diameter through the entire building. It is unnecessary to submit the grapes to a jet of steam, which would injure them by making them damp, but to a veritable heat of 160° Fahr. Valves, arranged on the floor, cause an even temperature. At the end of twenty-fouV hours, usually, the drying is finished, but as the immediate transfer from a temperature of 160° Fahr. to the open air would injure the ultimate re- sult, it is necessary to let raisins cool gradually in a room constructed for the purpose adjoining the heated room, and only when the raisins are entirely cool are they carried to the stores for packing. This is the process most generally employed in the region of Malaga, a process they are trying to extend to other less favored climates. The sun furnishes all the heat required ; it is enough to construct divisions, of either brick or stone, exposed to its rays, in an inclined position, say 10 yards long and 2 yards wide; the divisions or apartments are built THE VINE IN MALAGA. 857 up at one end with a sort of triangular masonry, which from afar gives them the aspect of a range of uniform tombs. The triangle is so con- structed that the sun never fails to shine upon the contents, the interior being covered with fine gravel, which attracts the heat. Immediately after gathering, the grapes are placed in three divisions, and are ex- posed to the heat of the burning Aiidaliisian sun of August. Never, it appears, have they dreamed of ascertaining the heat thus obtained, but the experienced cultivators affirm that, during the heat in August, they attain a temperature of 145° Fahr. At nightfall a very simple method of covering is applied to guard the fruit from the heavy dews or rain, either of sail-cloth or heavy canvas so arranged that it covers entirely the grapes that are drying within, and, being supplied with rings on two sides, slides up and down as a curtain at a moment's notice. In many places boards or planks are used, giving the appearance of a roof. During the process of drying they carefully remove the grapes that remain green or spoiled, and they turn each grape in order that they may darken in color uniformly. Competent judges give the preference to this simple method of drying, as much for the results as for the simplicity of the process. The raisins that have been prepared by the scalding process dry in four days, while those dried by the sun take ten days, but this loss of time is largely compensated by the econ- omy of expenditure. The raisins are not ready for packing immediately after being dried, but have to be kept several days in the stores on the planks on which they are carried. The raisins that are spoiled or defective are picked out, especially any that are broken or bruised, out of which one drop of moisture would be likely to damage a whole box. This has to be done with exceeding great care. Finally they are classified, which is a task exceedingly difficult, as cultivators and merchants differ greatly in their opinions. The merchants nearly always remodel the boxes packed by the producers. In the demands of foreign countries for Malaga raisins each has its particular and special requirements for what may be considered first-class fruit. For France, raisins may be classified as follows : Sur-couches, ordinaire, sur-couches, choix, snr-choix, royaux, impe"- riaux. The first, which is the most ordinary, is never shipped, except under a fictitious name : the other brands bear the true name of the merchant, but rarely the name of the producer. For England the raisins may be classified as follows : 1st. Finest Dehesa, 3 crowns. 2d. Finest Dehesa, 2 crowns. 3d. Fine Dehesa, 1 crown. 4th. Dehesa. 5th. Choice layers. London layers (from good to poor). For the American market the following brands are shipped : 1st. Imperial finest Dehesa layers. 858 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. 2d. Boyal finest Dehesa layers. 3d. Finest Dehesa layers. 4th. Fine Dehesa layers. 5th. Dehesa layers. 6th. London (ordinary) layers. London, loose, 1, 2, and 3 crowns, the last being in three qualities. The boxes are mostly made by contract at 75 centimes of a peseta (about 15 cents) each. I think the best boxes are made of fir imported from Portugal. The producer almost always provides the boxes and packs them, but they are always repacked in the town by the merchants, who usually employ women or girls for this labor. All raisins are packed iu boxes, except those shipped in barrels and frails, and are divided into four layers in each whole box, which, if of full size, contains 22 pounds of fruit, the total weight with the box usually being 28 or 29 pounds. The first or top layer is always the finest and largest, being selected with great care. The merchant is obliged to be familiar with the tastes and demands of the country for which the raisins are intended. Although the United States are the principal buyers, they do not purchase the finest quality, almost all the best going to England and France. For England the layers are not presented in bunches, but are all sepa- rated from the stem and pressed very tightly down by the lid of the box, which has the effect of making them, in show, a very large raisin. For France the bunches must be entire ; this difference proves that in England the buyers observe the appearance of the fruit, whilst in France they examine very critically, more desirous to assure themselves of the quality rather than appearance. In this regard, and contrary to their usual habit, the English show themselves less practical than the French. The average cost in Malaga of 100 boxes loose muscated raisins, the staple shipped to the United States for the year 1880, was about — Raisins (100 boxes) $126.10 Boxes (100 boxes) 14.55 From holder's warehouse to ship, including examining, marking, cartage, lightering, and nailing (100 boxes) 5.00 145. 65 In the choicest raisins sent from Malaga, there can be expended in decorations of inside papers from 5 cents to $1 per box, at the option of the purchaser. Before closing my report upon raisins, I would allude to a practice which has caused much dissatisfaction between American purchasers and Malaga merchants in the fruit trade, i. e., in the shipping of light- weight boxes of raisins. It has been customary to make the boxes of exceedingly thick wood, which weighed more than the amount allowed for tare. Thus the New York purchasers paid for one or two pounds more of raisins in each box than they received, and great trouble was experienced in consequencef lately, however, tbere bas been a THE VINE IN TURKEY. 859 certed agreement upon this point, in which the New York buyers have united, and they have issued a circular laying down the rule that all intend to follow hereafter, which is, that all boxes of raisins that do not contain 1>J pounds net will not be received, but will be considered unmarketable, and will be sold at public auction for account of shipper. Under this new rule, fear is expressed by some that, wood being scarce and dear in Spain, and not being able to continue to profit out of the thickness of the box, boxes will bo made so thin that they will lack the strength to bear the necessary handling in transportation. The crop of raisins produced in the Malaga district from the vintage of 1880 and 1881 is estimated at between 2,000,000 and 2,050,000 boxes, not nuicli varying from the previous vintage. The stock of raisins in the province of Malaga to-day is estimated at about 150,000 boxes, while one year ago it was estimated at only about 50,000 boxes. At the commencement of the present vintage prices ruled about 40 per cent, higher than during the same time the year previous, and since the 1st of January last but few shipments have been made to the United States as compared with the same period in 1880. H. C. MARSTON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Malaga, April 27, 1881. TURKEY. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL HEAP, OF CONSTANTINOPLE. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 41$.] Situation. — In this district and throughout the Levant there are vine yards on the table-lauds, on the hill-sides, and in the valleys— both inland and near the sea-coasts ; but the positions preferred as the most suitable for growing the vine are on the slopes of elevated and sheltered undulating lands, or on the sunny sides of the lower hills that do not lie too near the sea-coast, or are naturally protected by higher lands from the cold winds and fogs that arise in the neighborhood of the sea- shore at certain seasons. In the island of Cos, which is called the " Paradise of the Sultana grape," and in many other places in the Levant, nature has protected the vine by the best possible shelter. The steep slopes of hills are often planted with vines, and nothing (ran be more suitable than situations where patches of good soil are mingled with bare rocks, nor anything more beautiful than the rocks covered with foliage and rich fruits. In some places, e.sp»M-::iIly in the islands of the Archipelago, on the 860 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. shore of the Marmora, aud on the coast of Caramania, vineyards extend down to within 50 yards of the sea-shore. Near the sea-coast, sea fogs and mists, especially uhen frequent or of long duration, are very apt to injure the vines, particularly those grow- ing nearest the sea-shore; but to check and counteract their injurious action the plants and fruit are sprinkled lightly with powdered sulphur, the sprinkling being repeated two or three times if after the first appli- cation the rain should wash the sulphur off before the heat of the sun has had time to complete the sulphuration required. Pruning. — In the opinion of foreign planters, the system in vogue here of pruning and " backing n is rather the carrying out of a hand-to-mouth principle than the application of a scientific or economic idea, because the wholesale, ruthless pruning is often done, first, to get a second crop ; sec- ond, to ripen the grape quickly, or rather prematurely ; third, to allow the sun to color the grape a rich golden hue ; and, fourth, to admit of greater facility in getting around the plants. Vines " backed n and pruned in the native fashion in summer, unless they are planted in deep, strong, and heavily manured soil, become prematurely old, and their yield diminishes yearly, until at last they become quite unprofitable. But in the best-managed vineyards extensive pruning in summer, especially of the foreign vines, is regarded by foreign vine- growers as robbing the plant of its lungs, and that, too, at the time when all its breathing powers (leaves and branches) are mostly wanted. Happily, both systems have been tried and found to prosper here. Soil. — A cultivator who wishes to plant a vineyard that will give profitable results should have considerable scientific as well as practical experience to guide him in the selection of the most suitable ground for the purpose, as any defect in the nature of the soil or in its position, both as regards exposure to the sun and protection from cold winds, might render the enterprise abortive. The vine dislikes a damp soil, but will thrive in almost any open ground with good drainage. In rich, deep soils it grows luxuriantly, but on shallow, dry soils the fruit, though less abundant, is of finer flavor, especially where the earth is ferruginous. The best results are obtained from vineyards planted in good soils on the hillsides, the next best being those situated on undulating table- lands, and afterwards from those planted in the valley, especially where the vines are most exposed to the influence of the sun, and best pro- tected by nature against dry, hot winds and sudden and unseasonable currents of cold air. Cultivation. — Lands cultivated by native farmers are first turned up about the end of June, with rude plows or implements of husbandry of the most primitive description. In some places the young vines receive little care beyond being occasionally hoed and partially cleaned of weeds and couch-grass (Triticum repens). In other places they require and re- THE VINE IN TURKEY. 861 ceive more care, and have to be manured once iii two or three years. On lands in the vicinity of Constantinople, cultivated by foreigners, many of the local methods of culture have been retained, to which the aid of the most economical implements has been added, together with the science, art, and practical skill that have brought the vines of France, Spain, and Italy to so high a degree of perfection. When about to lay out a vineyard on virgin lands, foreigners some- times plow the earth first for wheat, and after the wheat has been har- vested they turn the soil again, so as to allow the sun to get at the roots of the couch-grass, which is the only sure method of destroying this enemy of the young vine. New varieties are raised from seed, but the ordinary modes of propagation are by layers and cuttings. Fine varie- t ies are sometimes budded or grafted on less valuable ones. Besides the native grapes grown for the purpose of making raisins, native wines, and for food, special kinds have been introduced into the country especially for the manufacture of wine for exportation. Within the last ten years upwards of a million of plants, costing from $5 to $10 per thousand, and embracing thirty-seven varieties of the best French vines, have been introduced, acclimatized, and successfully cul- tivated. A French company, with a capital of $500,000, in five hun- dred shares, has purchased estates near Heraclea, on the Koumelian (European) side of the Marmora, with the view of producing wines for the French market. The vines are cultivated in rows, about a square meter being allowed to each vine, which enables the numerous processes of cultivation to be carried out promptly and efficiently, and permits the cultivator to inspect the plantation with scrupulous minuteness. The planting of the vines in rows sufficiently wide apart to give free passage between them allows the sun free access to all the plants alike, and facilitates the carrying out of certain operations, such as hoeing, pruning, dressing, powdering, destruction of insects, etc., upon the proper performance of which the quality of the vintage and sometimes the very existence of the vineyard depends. This system, besides offer- ing these palpable advantages, allows the whole of the cluster to ripen equally, and precludes the possibility of unripe grapes getting mixed up with the ripe ones. The fruit can, moreover, be more promptly got- ten in than in the case of vines cultivated on the system known in France as "enfoulef where they are allowed to grow closely together and at random. Although some vine-growers are in favor of this sys- tem, common practice in France and other vine-growing countries has shown that its disadvantages outweigh its advantages. The vine must have equal exposure to the sun on every side, and to facilitate the many operations which promote a good vintage it must be of easy access. When the ground has been selected on which a new vineyard is to be planted, it should be carefully trenched by digging with fork and spade to a depth of 2J to 3 feet, the earth being thrown up in a series of rows. This long and expensive operation has to be repeated several times. 862 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. It is generally done late in the fall or in the winter, when the ground is damp and soft. Great care must be taken to remove all stones, roots, and other hard substances. The ground is then ready to receive the tender shoots, which are generally planted 3 feet apart. Then begins the long and unprofitable period, during which the vines must be tended with unremitting care in order to bring them to maturity and fruitfulness. Many open and hidden enemies threaten the life of the young vine, and it is only by resorting to methods which are sometimes elaborate and expensive that it can be safely reared. While the grower in Turkey has no such pest to contend against as the deadly phylloxera, he has several species of vine-fretters, including the aphis or puveron, the vine saw-fly, the grub, and numerous other small insects which infest both the young and the old vines, to tax his patience and science. The most dangerous enemy of the vine-grower is the vine mildew, a fungus of the genus Oidium, which forms a white, delicate, cottony layer upon the leaves, young shoots, and fruit of the vine, causing brown spots to appear on the green parts, and finally a hardening, and the destruc- tion first of the surface, and, if not taken in time, of the whole vine, root and branch. A rusty or moldy vine if left to itself soon becomes worse than useless, because it not only cumbers the ground, but com- municates its deadly taint to its healthy neighbors. The Oidium, how- ever, can be easily kept down, and if taken at its first appearance is generally stamped out by one or two applications of sulphur. Concurrently with these elaborate precautions against the numerous dangers which threaten the safety of the whole vineyard, other duties claim the constant attention of the grower. The growing plants must have the earth continually hoed around them, special care being taken not to disturb their feeble roots ; in seasons of drought each plant must be carefully watered, and when its leaves and tendrils begin to shoot, the vine must be continually trimmed, dressed, and pruned, so as to in- duce a strong growth without reducing its productiveness. During the first year the grower does not, of course, expect to gather grapes, nor even in the second year, but he considers himself fortunate if at the end of that time all has gone well. He may hope for a few grapes the third year, but it is not until the fourth year that he has a real crop to reward him for all his pains and outlay. When properly cultivated, the vine blossoms from about the 25th of May to the 5th of June. The flowers are small, of a greenish-white hue, and fragrant. Seventy to seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit gen- erally suffices to ripen the grapes, and they mellow between the end of August and middle of September. The vine comes into full bearing in its fourth or fifth year, after which it continues very fruitful up to its thirtieth or thirty-fifth year. Its stem sometimes attains a diameter of eighteen inches, and it is said that in certain instances the vine has lived upwards of three hundred years. THE VINE IN TURKEY. 863 Irrigation. — When any system of irrigation exists at all in this coun- try it is generally of the most primitive kind, such as trenches supplied with water by the aid of the manganos, or water-wheels of the natives. But properly speaking there is no system of artificial irrigation usually employed, and as a rule the cultivators depend mainly on the showers and dews, which generally feed and refresh the vines during their growth. Of course advantage is taken of springs or small streams that may exist in the neighborhood of the vineyard to secure as long as pos- sible a sufficient supply of water from such natural sources, and where they exist the vines are generally well watered, and as often as they require to be. Yield. — The crop varies according to the nature of the soil, the sea- sous, the position of the vineyard, and the degree of care and attention bestowed on the vines. An acre of good vine-growing land in Turkey will, as has been proved by repeated experiments, give from 616 to 880 gallons of wine. It is estimated that when the vineyards held by French companies at Oinurtshed and Heraclea, which contain about 10,000 acres, have attained full maturity, their vintage will be about 6,160,000 gallons. The following is an estimate of the cost of laying out a one-acre vine- yard, with the working expenses, for five consecutive years, and the probable profits during the first five years if cultivated according to the French system : Trenching, etc $116.16 Planting 4,000 vines, hoeing, etc., first year 38.72 Digging, pruning, hoeing, etc., second year 38.72 193. 60 Less 60 gallons wine, at 70 cents 42.00 Loss 151.60 Digging, pruning, hoeing, etc., third year 38.72 190.32 Less 140 gallons wine, at 70 cents 98.00 Loss 92.32 * pruning, hoeing, etc., fourth year 38.72 131.04 Less 300 gallons wine, at 70 cents 210.00 Profit , 78.96 To be placed against cost of plant, cellar, casks, etc 78. 96 Digging, pruning, hoeing, etc., fifth year 38.72 Less 500 gallons wine at 70 cents 350. 00 Profit fifth year 311.28 864 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Varieties. — The principal varieties of grapes grown in the Levant are the following : the " Sultaninas" (without kernels), the " Tchaouche," the " Amigdala" (on the island of Scio), the " Psilaroga," the "Eobola," the " Caramisali," the " Besaki," the "Boditis," the " Koutoura," and the "Mavreli." The u Sultaninas," u Tchaouche," "Amigdala," " Bobola," and " Eesaki " are white; the " Psilaroga" both black and white; the " Boditis," red ; and the " Saramisali," "Koutoura," and "Mavreli" are black. The finest quality grown in the neighborhood of Constantinople is the "Tchaouche," which is remarkable for its size and fine flavor, and is the most esteemed for the table. The French growers admit that for the table (and unpreserved) its quality is unequaled, with the exception of the " Sultanina." The other varieties, especially the black, are used chiefly for the manufacture of wine. Besides affording a wholesome article of food to the local population, considerable quantities are ex- ported to Eussia and elsewhere. Process of drying raisins. — The raisins of commerce are dried grapes, prepared by two different methods. One method consists of partially cutting through the stalk of the ripened bunches and allowing them to shrink and dry upon the vine by the heat of the sun. The raisins prepared by the other method are gathered and hung on lines or laid on prepared floors to dry in the sun. When dried, they are dipped in a hot lye made from wood ashes or barilla with water until the filtered fluid has a specific gravity of about 1.1 ; to this are added, for every four gallons of lye one pint of olive oil and four ounces of salt. After dipping, the fruit is laid on hurdles of wicker-work to drain, and is exposed to the sun for about a fortnight. The raisins are then pulled from the stalks and packed in boxes for export. Distilled spirit from grape skins. — From the skins of the grape a spirit is distilled called " mastic" (the gin of the East), which is largely used by the natives, both Turk and Frank. Raisin trade. — The raisin trade much exceeds in importance that of figs. The three principal kinds known in commerce are the " Small Sul- tana," the " Large Bed," and the " Large Black." The " Sultanas" are chiefly taken by England and Germany; about three-fourths of the " Large Bed" go to Trieste, Germany, and Holland, and the " Black" were until lately almost entirely for Constantinople, Salonica, and the Danubiau provinces. But the growing manufacture of raisin wine in France draws an increasing quantity of raisins to French ports. Vast quantities are taken by distillers in all European countries. Quantities of raisins produced. — A well-kept vineyard in Asia Minor ought, it is calculated, produce an average of 7 tons of grapes to the acre, in the Turkish custom-house returns for 1880-'81 the valuation of the THE VINE IN TURKEY. 865 raisins exported from all Turkey was $4,393,655, but this sum is evi- dently incorrect, as trustworthy statistics give the exports from Smyrna and the neighboring district for the same period as follows : Value in Smyrna. Black, 528,278 kintals, of 112 pounds each $2,522,397.18 Red, 185,754 kintals, of 112 pounds each 1,077,084.06 Sultanas, 173,237 kintals, of 112 pounds each 1, 002, 907. 13 Say 49,687 tons, valued at 4,602,388.37 During the last two years the quantities produced have increased, but the quantities exported have not been published. Kaisins come principally from the neighborhood of Smyrna, the shores of its gulf, and the valleys of the nearer rivers. Quite three-fourths of the laboring population are said to be Greek Christians and the re- mainder Turks. The highest prices are obtained for the Karaburnu fruit, which was recently quoted as high as 18 cents per pound for red raisins and 24 cents for Sultanas. The black raisin ranges as low as 3 cents per pound on the spot. The total yield of raisins in the Smyrna district, which was 48,OQO tons in 1871 and only 31,000 tons in 1872, had risen in 1879, in consequence of the general planting of new vine- yards and the greater facilities of transportation from the interior, to the large quantity of 75,000 tons. While the quantity produced has been increasing so largely, the prices, instead of falling, as in the case of figs, have considerably risen, principally, no do ubt, in consequence of the vine diseases in Western Europe. It may be mentioned, however, that the removal of the stalks adds much to the value of an equal bulk of fruit and forms an im- portant element in the rise of prices. About fifteen years ago the practice of stripping the red raisins from their stalks commenced at Tchesmi. This rendered them more salable, and they afterwards were classed with "Eleine'" (choice). The practice also applies to the Sul- tanas and the black fruit. Most of the fruit grown in the immediate districts of Smyrna is known as u Yerlis," and in the island of Samos a red u Muscat77 grape is pro- duced, which goes in barrels to Holland and Austria, there being scarcely any demand for it in England. These exports for 1882 amounted to $35,000. About Ai'din, where the population is almost entirely Turkish, a small black and not very sweet raisin is grown in large quantities. Half are kept in the country, and the rest, which bring a low price, go, without their stalks, and packed in bags or barrels, to Russia, Greece, France, and Trieste. Packing. — The manner of packing the fruit differs according to its destination, in order to meet the requirements of the markets. Tbe best " red raisins," whether with or without stalks, are packed in boxes of thirty pounds, except for Russia, where they go in barrels of L'50 pounds. The "Sultanas "for Trieste are sent in boxes of 12 pounds, and they go to England in larger boxes of 22 pounds. To Germany and 866 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Holland they go in cases of 30 ami 60 pounds. The "Large Black" raisins are generally exported in barrels of about 370 pounds each, and the Erl Kara of Smyrna are shipped in sacks.' Freights. — The freight charged by steamers for raisins is at present $8 to $8.50 per ton, but it is sometimes as high as $10.32 per ton to Liver- pool for small lots. Freights are not quoted to the United States, as there is no direct trade. Besides the foregoing, some five or six thousand tons of grapes are converted into wine exported annually from Smyrna. Considerable quantities of wine are also exported from Rouraelia, principally through Constantinople to France, where it is converted into French clarets, but the quantities have not been ascertained. Among the other districts which produce considerable quantities of grapes may be mentioned that of Broussa, the islands of the Archipel- ago, and Eoumelia. During the season 1881-782 the '.vine produced in the Kirkillisia region alone was 3,581,907 gallons. The vilayet of Trebi- zond produced in 1882, 3,790,300 pounds of grapes, but very little in any shape was exported. G. H. HEAP, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE GENERAL, Constantinople, April 10, 1884. SALONICA. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT LAZARO. [Repuhlished from Consular Reports No 41|.] Situation. — The best position of vineyards is the hill-side lands of the interior, at least 2 miles from the sea-coast. There are some places on the plain where mist and fogs occasion mil- dew, for which sulphur flour is used. Pruning. — The vines are pruned in the month of February. Soil. — The soil where the best results are obtained is a pebbly, sandy loam, and on warm, south-side positions. Cultivation. — The ground is hoed in ridges once a year, and is after- wards weeded. Before the grapes are ripe the ends of the vine are pruned 1 yard from the root to give strength to the plant. Maturity. — Vines bear fruit the third year and are in full bearing the fourth. When well tended they remain fruitful for fifty years and over. Irrigation. — Irrigation is not practiced in this district. Yield. — The yield varies With the position. The best fruit is grown on dry soil, but it is less abundant. Generally the yield is from 3J to 10 tons per acse per annum. Prices vary from $15 to $20 per ton of 2,000 pounds. The cultivation of vineyards costs about $28 per acre per annum. THE VINE IN TURKEY. 867 Climate. — As to the climate of this district, it is mild ; the severest weather is limited to two months and a half; snow seldom falls, and ice never forms over half an inch thick. The greatest heat, which occurs in July, is about 96° Fahrenheit. The total yield of grapes in this district is unknown, for want of any kind of statistics. It is supposed, however, that two- thirds of the vint- age are exported in the shape of native wine, manufactured simply by extracting the juice and keeping it a couple of months. The rest is consumed at home in grapes and wine. Exportations are made in barrels to Constantinople, Alexandria, Eou- inauia, and Servia. French buyers purchase much of the wine of this province to reinanufacture it in France and convert it into French wines. P. H. LAZARO. Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Salonica, February 19, 1884. SUPPLEMENT. CRYSTALLIZATION OF FRUIT IN FRANCE. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 60.J MARSEILLES. REPORT OF CONSUL MASON. The business of preserving fruits by the crystallizing process is peculiar to Southeastern France, and is practiced on a large scale at Apt, in the department of Vaucluse, at Clermont, in Auvergne, as well as at Marseilles, Grasse, Avignon, and other places of less importance. The product is exported largely to England, the United States, and various other countries, including Algiers, the East and West Indies, and even South America, where the profusion of fresh fruits would seem, at first thought, to render such an expensive import almost superfluous. The kinds of fruit preserved by this process are mainly pears, cher- ries, apricots, pine-apples, plums, figs, citrons, oranges, melons, and a kind of dwarf orange called "chinois," which grows to some extent in the district of Nice, but is imported here mainly from Italy and Cor- sica. Peaches are used for this purpose only to a limited extent in the region of Marseilles, the " free-stone" varieties being too costly and the supply too small for profitable use on a large scale. The crystallizing process is in principle simple and nearly uniform for all the above kinds of fruit, but it requires a certain skill and deli- cacy of manipulation which can only be obtained by experience, and which it is difficult to precisely define. The essential thing to be done is to extract the juice of the fruit and replace it in the pulp withliquid sugar, which, upon hardening, not only preserves the fruit from fermentation and decay, but retains it in its original form and consistency. For this purpose it is necessary that the fruit should be fresh, clear of all decay or other blemish, and of precisely the correct degree of ripeness. This last is an important and difficult requirement, as the proper degree of ripeness for crystallizing varies with the different varieties, and is so precise as to exclude from use for this purpose much of the fruit sold during the season in open market, and which has not been gathered, assorted, and transported with suffi- cient care. 156A 31 871 872 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. SUPPLY OF FRUIT. In the neighborhood of Apt and Avignon, where this method of pre- serving forms a leading industry, fruit-growers are carefully instructed in this respect, and deliver their crop to the confectioners in the best condition. Contrary to what is popularly believed, native fruits are rarely or never really cheap in Southern France, except sometimes for a brief period, when, by reason of some exigency of weather or sanitary trouble, the supply of apricots, figs, or melons, may temporarily exceed the demand. Oranges, which come from Spain and Italy, and citrons, from Corsica and Algiers, are, in favorable seasons, plentiful and reasonably cheap, but apples, pears, cherries, peaches, plums, and berries are always costly in the market of" Marseilles. At this time, the end of October, ordinary apples command at retail from 4 to Scents per pound, and the average price paid by confectioners for the various fresh fruits used in crystallizing varies from 8 to 10 cents per pound. At Apt and Clermont, which are small towns in the midst of fruit- growing districts, prices are somewhat less than this. Refined sugar, the other principal material, costs $9.65 per 100 pounds. If moist or inferior sugars are used, this item of expense may be slightly reduced, but the saving thus effected is more than lost by the inferior quality of the product. This is exemplified by the Corsican citron preserved at Leghorn. It will be borne in mind that the preserved fruits under consideration are of two kinds, "fruits glaces? glazed, and "fruits crystallises? but this difference relates simply to the exterior coating of sugar, which results from the final stage of the process. Until that finishing process is reached, the method of preparing glazed and crystallized fruits is iden- tical and the value of the product is the same. THE PROCESS OF CRYSTALLIZING. The fruit is first carefully assorted in respect to size and uniform degrees of ripeness. Pears, pine-apples, and quinces are pared, citrons are cut into quar- ters and soaked a month in sea-water, and the " pits" of apricots,i cher- ries, and peaches are carefully removed. Even this preparatory process requires a certain degree of skill, since the stone must be removed with as little injury as possible to the form and solidity of the fruit. This work is done mainly by women, who earn thereby 50 cents per day. Thus prepared, the fruit is immersed in boiling water, which quickly penetrates the pulp, dissolving and diluting the juice, which is thereby nearly eliminated, when the fruit is subsequently taken from the water and drained, leaving only the solid portion of the pulp intact. This process of " blanching " must also be done with exact nicety, the CRYSTALLIZATION Ul FtfUIT IN TRANCE. 873 period of immersion in the hot water being determined by the si/.e and ripeness of the t'niit. If immersed loo long, the pulp is either overcooked or is left too dry and woody. If taken out too soon, the. juices left in the pulp prevent perfect absorption of the sugar afterwards, and, by event- ually causing fermentation, destroy the value of the product. In this, as in other stages of the process, the only guide is experience. A skillful workman can tell by the color and appearance of the pulp when it is properly u blanched," and this knowledge in variably commands employment and liberal compensation. After being thus scalded some fruits, apricots, for example, are again assorted into two or three classes, according to the degree of softness that has been produced, for the reason that if kept together they would take up the sugar differently, some losing their form entirely, while others would remain sufficiently impregnated. From these different grades, sugar-sirups of different degrees of density are required, the softer the fruit the stronger the sirup required for its preservation. For the same reason each of the different varieties of fruit requires a sirup of corresponding strength. Pears, citrons, and pine-apples, which remain hard and firm, take best a sirup having a density of from 18° to 25°, while apricots, plums, and figs are treated with sirups which gauge from 30° to 42° by the aerometer. The requisite sirup having been prepared by dissolving the sugar in pure water, the fruit is immersed in it and left at rest for a certain period in large earthenware pans, glazed inside, and having a capacity of about 8 gallons. The sirup penetrates the pulp, and gradually withdraws and replaces the remaining fruity juice, which, as it exudes and mingles with the transparent liquid, produces a certain filmy or clouded appearance, which marks the commencement of fermentation. When this has reached a certain stage, the vessel containing the sirup and fruit is placed over the fire and heated to 212° F. This corrects the fermenta- tion and raises all impurities to the surface, whence, if necessary they can be removed by skimming. If the sirup is of proper density, this process of impregnating the fruit with sugar wilt be complete in about six weeks, during which time it is usually necessary to perform this heating process as above described three times. The impregnation of the fruit with sugar being thus complete, it is taken out, washed in pure water to remove the flaky particles that adhere, and is then submitted to one of two finishing processes, as follows: If the fruit is to be " glaced," that is, covered with an ice or trans- parent coating, it is dipped in a thick, viscid sirup of sugar and left to dry and harden rapidly in the open air. If it is to be u cry stallized " it is dipped into the same sirup, but is then cooled and dried slowly in a kiln or chamber warmed to a temperature of 90° Fahrenheit. This slow cooling causes the thick sirup with which the fruit is cov- 874 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. ci ed to crystallize and assume the usual granulated appearance. The work is now finished. If properly done, the fruit thus preserved will bear transportation to any climate and will keep, firm and unchanged, i'or years. It is packed in light wooden or card-board boxes and may be shipped in cases containing several hundred pounds each. USES OF THE SPENT SJRUP. During the process of impregnating the fruit with sugar the sirup in which it. is immersed is gradually deteriorated by losing its sugar and absorbing the juices of the fruit. It is finally utilized in the prepara- tion of " confiture d'Apt," which is made of the soft overcooked and ir- regular pieces of fruits of all kinds mixed in irregular proportion and preserved in the spent sirup, which is boiled down to the required con- sistency. This branch of manufacture, like many others, gives oppor- tunities for sharp practice, particularly in the use of glucose in place of pure sugar, and of certain chemicals, notably salicylic acid, which there is reason to believe is employed to some extent by certain confectioners to shorten and thereby cheapen the process of preservation. Salicine, the basis of this acid, is a flaky substance derived from the bark of certain species of willow. It is used in medicine as a febrifuge, two grains per day being regarded a safe allowance for adults. Sali- cylic acid is made by the action of sulphuric acid, bichromate of pot- ash, and water upon salicine. In just what degree salicylic acid is dele- terious to health I am not informed, but it is the opinion of good judges that its use in the preservation of fruits and wines should be prohibited by law. It is a powerful antiseptic, and is for this reason used in the mixing of wines and, as already indicated, in the fruit-crystallizing pro- cess, to arrest and prevent the acetous fermentation of the juice, which would otherwise spoil fruits which have been imperfectly prepared. As has been shown above, the process of eliminating the natural juices of fruit and replacing them with sugar by immersion in sirup requires about six weeks. By the use of salicylic acid, which penetrates the pulp and exerts upon the juices an antiseptic influence which prevents fermentation, this process can be reduced to a few days only. Time, labor, and sugar are thereby saved, but naturally at the expense of quality in the finished product. COST AND MARKET VALUES. The net cost of preserving fruit by this process varies, of course, with the price of sugar, labor, interest on investment, etc., and this is more- over a point upon which confectioners are not disposed to be communi- cative. But with the facts at our disposal, the question of costs can be closely approximated. Sugar costs lu-re this season, as already stated, 9.65 cents per pound, and fruit in condition for crystallizing on an average CRYSTALLIZATION OF FRUIT IN FRANCE. 875 8 cents per pound. The labor of women to pare, stone, and otherwise prepare the fruit costs 50 cents per day ; that of men sufficiently skilled in the processes of scalding and preserving to work under the direction of a foreman, commands from 80 cents to $1 per day. In most estab- lishments the proprietor or a member of the firm is the superintendent, who personally directs the work. Most leading confectioners and caterers of Marseilles manufacture their own crystallized and " glace*" fruits, which they sell at retail from 50 to 75 cents per pound. The wholesale trade prices of quantities for export are much less, as will be shown by the following exhibit of the average values, as declared for export to the United States and other countries, of the several fruits during the season -of 1884, which was a year of abundant fruit harvest, and the present summer and autumn, when all fresh fruits, except cherries and figs, have been more expensive by reason of a short and interior supply : Articles. 1884. 1885. Apricots ...... ..... •.... ...... .. ............. ...... . per pound Cents. 27* Cents. 29 Chiuois : Green . - do 24* 23 Ripe . . . do.... a? 25i Cherries do 23 23" Fi "» (Marseilles) do . 21 20 Pears: Ijf.(l . ' .. do... 24 25* White do.... 24 2? Plums : 24* 29 Yellow mirabelles do 25 26 Pine apples (from West Indies) ....do.... 33 :>,3 Citron do 13 22 Melons do . 24* 25i S t Tawberries do Sf 29 Mixed fruits do . 25* 30 This would give an average of about 24 cents per pound for 1884, and 26 cents for 1885. Deduct from these values, say, 20 per cent, for manufacturer's profit, and we reach from 19 to 20 cents per pound as the average cost of pro- duction. Add to these values the cost of importation and a duty of 35 per cent, ad valorem, and the crystallized fruits of Provence become a rather ex- pensive sweetmeat to American consumers. THE INDUSTRY IN THE UNITED STATES. But there would seem to be no good reason why this dainty and profit- able industry could not be established with immediate and complete success in the United States, where most ordinary fruits grow in pro- fuse abundance and with finer flavor than is developed by the same varieties in any part of Europe. Sugar is equally cheap, and fuel fa? less expensive in our country than it is here. From the foregoing ac 876 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. count it will be seen that the process of crystallizing fruits, as well as the requisite apparatus, are exceedingly plain and simple. But the most profusely furnished kitchen, abundant raw material, and a library of books on cookery will not enable a novice to prepare a well cooked dinner. There is so much in the art of crystallizing fruit, which can only be learned by experience, that in order to begin the experiment with cer- tainty of success, American pioneers in this manufacture should employ competent French workmen to superintend the construction of their plant, instruct the operatives, and superintend the whole process of pre- serving and papking during the infancy of the business. The extent to which the crystallized ff uits of this country are imported by the United States would seem to indicate that here is an opportu- nity for a new and profitable enterprise. FRANK H. MASON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Marseilles, October 31, 1885. COGNAC. REPORT BY CONSUL IRISH. I have extended my inquiries as far as practicable for this portion of France, and am enabled to state that the actual processes of crystallizing fruits have been generally abandoned throughout the country, on ac- count of the expense attending thereon and the general scarcity and usually high price of fruit. However, there are, in all the towns of this region such as Cognac, Angouleme, Saintes, Eochefort, La Eochelle, and Limoges, persons who are familiar with the business, who deal in the crystallized fruit, and who have formerly engaged in its manufacture. The testimony on the sub- ject is to the effect that the process of crystallization is now largely and almost entirely confined to a few points, namely : Clermont-Ferrand, in the department of Puy-de-Dome, in the consular district of St. Etienne, and Carcassonne, department of Aude, in the extreme south of France, and in the bounds of the Cette agency of Marseilles. A reasonable amount of manufacturing is dxme at Paris, and also at Bar le-Duc, department of Meuse, where the production is chiefly con- fined to the preserving of currants, gooseberries, and such like fruit. Clermont-Ferrand is the most important place for this industry in France, and as fruit is usually abundant and cheap in that locality, they aro enabled to fflrnish the dealers throughout all this region to much better advantage than the dealers themselves can manufacture it. As a consequence of the confinement of the work to localities beyond my bounds it will be seen that I have not the data for its cost and extent of production. CRYSTALLIZATION OF FRUIT IN FRANCE. 877 Neither are the manufacturers usually disposed to furnish detailed information concerning their business, and many obstacles lie in the way of an investigation. I am enabled, however, to furnish a tolerably clear statement of the various processes of the work, which, as a whole, is quite uniformly practical whenever the labor is performed. WHITENING FRUITS. Mneh precaution is necessary to be taken to well preserve the fruit, whether it be dry or watery, in order to obtain good results. Success depends largely upon the first act of bleaching. The bleach- ing, or whitening, of the fruit must be regulated according to the quality and maturity of it ; the water must not boil, must simmer only. It is well to choose each kind of fruit a few days before being ripe ; it should be hard or firm and gathered in dry weather in the morning, and whitened as much as possible the same day, for if too ripe it will fall in marmalade; if not enough it can not be properly preserved, the pores will become closed, and the sugar can not penetrate. The fruit will become hard, acid, black, and moldy. It is necessary to place the fruit in a considerable quantity of water to whiten it, that the water cover it at least 8 inches, in order that there be no necessity to increase the quan- tity during the process. In such a caso added water should be of the same temperature. Cover the fruit with an osier screen or linen cloth, and put about 4 inches from the bottom of the vessel a copper colander, to prevent injury from the fire. Stir the fruit from time to time lightly, with a skimmer, to aid the riper portion to rise. Usually the fruit is whitened with the naked fire, but it is much easier to do it with steam, because in that case it is not exposed to the danger of scorching, and the degree of heat for the various kinds of fruit is easier regulated. M. Kangot, confectioner, 4 Rue de la Verrerie, Paris, has invented an apparatus, called a confisoire, very convenient for preserving fruit. The use of this is to avoid the necessity ot decanting, and 25 gallons or more can be preserved at a time in sixty hours, and watery fruit in 72 hours. Bach kind of fruit is whitened in a different manner. Stone fruit is placed in cold water over a slow fire, and removed with a skimmer as soon as it rises to the top of the water. The condition of the cooking is ascertained by the use of a pin, which must easily penetrate, or by softly pressing with the fingers; when it is found to be sufficiently soft it is taken out and put in cold water. If there is a great quantity of fruit to be whitened, the same water may be used again, especially for plums and green fruit. Plums that are whitened in the first water, not being so nice and transparent as those whitened in the second, the poorest and ripest and ill turned may be whitened first to acidulate the water. Some con- fectioners employ lemon juice, virjuice, pyroligneous acid, alum, marine salt, epsom salt, etc., to preserve the, whiteness of the fruit, and blue 878 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. vitriol, vinegar, or salt, to turn it green. It is dangerous, however, to use the blue vitriol ; too great a quantity causing the water to turn bluish, the fruit will then become black. If used, put not more than 3 grains to a quart of water, and when the fruit is whitened, put it in water for twenty-four hours, changing four or five times. To be assured the water or fruit does not contain any part of the vitriol, plunge a well polished bar of iron into the water ; if it is not covered with a copper tint there is no danger. When plums or other fruit are to be whitened, if the water is to be used again, let it cool before using until it becomes lukewarm, and leave the fruit in it awhile before heating ; this is why the use of steam is so helpful. Fruit with a tough skin requires longer to whiten, and time, according to its quality ; hence the following notices of the time required to pre- serve each kind of fruit. SUGARING FRUIT. After the whitening process is completed, great care is still required to properly preserve them in sugar. If the fruit is too firm or hard, or not ripe enough, on being removed from the whitening process it must be put in sugar reduced to a sirup of 23° 5 the water contained in the fruit will be eliminated and the sirup reduced to 20°; it will be neces- sary the next day, for the first operation, to increase it to 25°. Cover the fruit and boil it, pour it out gently into an earthen dish, and place it in the cellar in a cool and dry spot to avoid fermenting. Continue cooking it from day to day, making it one or two degrees thicker. Covered when boiling. Ordinarily this process is repeated from five to eight times, thicken- ing to 36°, or more, according to the maturity of the fruit. If the fruit is soft or too ripe it will be necessary to cook the sugar more to harden it and preserve it from falling into marmalade. Reduce the sugar to 28° for the first shape or condition, increasing 2° each day for each shape. It is sometimes necessary to give two shapes each day, morning and evening. In that case increase the sugar only 1° each time, and only simmer the fruit; afterwards put it in the cellar. If it is desired to preserve the fruit very clear and white, it is necessary to change the sirup in the middle of the shape. In such case it is necessary to thicken the sirup with apple jelly or glucose, to prevent its candying. When the fruit is sufficiently preserved, it is left in a cool and dry place from eight to fifteen days, in order that all the water may escape and it be- come impregnated with the sugar. It is necessary that the fruit be well drained at each shape or stage of the process, because if reduced sirup remains at the bottom of the vessel into which the fruit has been poured, and a covered boiling or simmering has been neglected, it will contribute to its fermentation. A spigot at the base of the vessel -for the purpose of draining the CRYSTALLIZATION OP FRUIT IN FRANCE. 879 sirup is very useful in the case of apricots, chestnuts, strawberries, raspberries, and all tender fruit. The quantity of sugar necessary to preserve each sort of fruit is not indicated, as the fruit will take only the amount of sirup necessary for it; it is only necessary that it bathes in the sirup. PREPARING PARTICULAR FRUITS. I present herewith instructions for preserving a number of the more important kinds of fruit: Apricots, u-hole.— Choose the white apricots, from high trees, or grown in a garden, along the wall. They will be recognized in opening by the* meat forming species of rays around the stone. It is necessary to take them some days before their maturity, when they begin to turn yellow, and the stone is easily detached, and they are firm. Make a little incision at the head with the point of a knife. Hold the fruit in the left hand with the thumb and fore-finger, then pushing the knife at the place of the stem, the stone goes out at the top or head. Proportion the apricots in water slightly alumed, or acidulated with lemon juice. Prick them in the green parts which are not ripe enough, then whiten them on a slow fire, stir them from time to time to aid the ripest to rise to the surface ; try them on the skimmer with the fingers or a pin, and put them in fresh water as soon as whitened. When they have become cooled, after, having changed the water several times; put them in sugar warmed to 20°, and make them simmer or slightly boil, if they are not too ripe. The next day put them in su- gar at 22°, boil them, covered, if the fruit is firm, or simmer them if it is tender; continue thus each day for five or six days or processes, increasing 2° each time until 30°, then let them remain for fifteen days, as heretofore indicated. When the fruits are a little large, turn them with a thin and suitable knife that the sides may correspond ; with a toothed knife the sides are better and neater. Cherries, oranges, nuts, pears, etc., are turned in the same manner. Stuffed apricots. — Take whole, preserved apricots, and introduce in each plum or other small preserved fruit separated from the stone, which replace by lemon or lime. They are equally stuffed with the marmalade of apricots, pine-apples, strawberries, apple-jelly, currants, cherries, raspberries, etc., and a peeled almond is put in the middle. Apricots in quarters. — Choose apricots already yellow, without being ripe, firm, and with the stone easily detached. Peel them, or turn them, and prick them lightly with a pin, and immediately throw them in fresh fountain water lightly alumed. Whiten them and put them in the sirup like the whole ones. When they are pre- served, drain them, put them in a stewing dish with sirup at 20°, and add the juice of a fine orange. The apricots are iced and candied, drained, and placed with pre- served fruits in boxes. Increase the sirup at each process, so that the fruit is bathed in it. Pine-apples. — Choose the pine-apples before they are entirely ripe, remove with care the first pellicle, leaving half of the middle of the crown, prick them with a large n»'- die to the heart in several places. Whiten and preserve them like the apricot. flurries. — Take fine cherries with considerable acidity, takeoff the steins, push out tin- stoiws with a quill, and place them reversed side by side on a strainer. After- wards put them in an earthen dish in layers, with equal parts of powdered sugar, until the next day. It is n> « •• >- .iry to decant them several times to dissolve the sugar. Heat, them slowly and proceed as with simp. (jHiii'-.t* in quarter*.— Choose quinces of a Hue yellow, and well ripe and sound. Take oft' the down with a linen cloth, prick them to the heart with a large needle, put them in a proportional quantity of alumed water, place them afterwards over a quick 880 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. fire, boil for time, and when tender throw them into fresh fountain or river water in preference to well water (as such contains less calcareous salt and is softer.) Fountain water is preferable for preserving all fruit, especially white fruit. Peel them and take out the cores, cutting them in equal quarters ; put them again in alumed water, and continue whitening them until the head of a pin passes easily through the quarters and the hole closes up again. Quinces are also whitened in the following manner: The fruit is just peeled, and a lemon rubbed over each slice to prevent its becoming red ; then put in alumed or acidulated water, then they are whitened. The former process is preferable. They are preserved like apricots, having care to cover them with a white linen cloth at the surface of the water, and to cover each vessel into which they are poured with linen or white paper, to hinder the fruit from reddening. It is necessary to take theseprecautions for all white fruit. When it hap- pens that water reddens in whitening them, it is necessary to change the alumed or acidulated water. Lemons. — Choose fine lemons well united, turn them, make a hole with a punch at the right of the stem, put them successively in fresh water. Whiten them, empty them like oranges, preserve them, and ice them the same. Quarters of lemons. — Take fine lemons, well ripened, united, and without spots ; separate the largest part of the white, after having cut them in equal quarters. Whiten these skins like citrons, and preserve them and ice them the same. Citrons. — Choose fine citrons uniformly ripened. Test them with a piece of glass to raise only the surface of the rind. Make a hole with a punch a little larger than for lemons. Whiten them with much water. When they are half whitened, empty them with a coffee spoon, put them in fresh water, and finish them and whiten them like lemons, and preserve them the same. Citrons in quarters are emptied only when they are whitened. Leave them forty-eight hours in fresh water, changing it two or three times a day to remove the bitterness of the rind. Raspberries.— Choose fine red raspberries, not too ripe, that you examine carefully. Put them in an earthen dish; about 9 pounds in each: cook with an equal part of sugar aw souffle' ; empty, decanting four or five times during an hour, into a similar dish ; put them on a slow fire, bringing them to a boil again ; put in the cellar until the next day, draining slowly so as not to crush them ; and cook in sugar at 28°, covered while boiling. The next day cook them at 30°, the third day at 32°, afterwards drain them so as to dry and candy them. I need not specify their numerous uses. Straivberries. — Choose them firm, without being quite ripe, and preserve them the same as raspberries and cherries. Oranges. — Choose very fine oranges, very firm, and with a thick skin. Turn them, making all sorts of designs, and put them in fresh water. Whiten them, and empty like lemons and citrons. They are preserved and iced the same. Oranges in quarters.— Choose similar oranges. Mark four separations in the orange without detaching the quarters. Whiten as heretofore shown, and when they are well preserved divide the quarters for the various uses. The skins and peels are pre- served and iced the same, and are used to perfume sweetmeats, etc. Plums. — Choose fine fresh plums, not too ripe, but commencing to turn yellow. The plums of Metz are superior to all others in France for preserves. They are very trans- parent, and once preserved have a very delicious taste. Prick them to the stone with five or six pins fastened in a cork. Put them in a proportional quantity of fresh water lightly alnmed. Let me here refer to a former statement about using water more than once in whitening plums. Care must be taken to put the fruit only in lukewarm water to commence to whiten it, and to leave it in some minutes before increasing the heat. The plums are whitened and preserved the same as apricots. I' tars. — Choose fine pears, like the butter pears of England or Rheims or Bergamots, and when not too ripe, when the pips are black, and when in paring them they are white under the skin. Put them, with a good deal of water, on a quick fire, or with CRYSTALLIZATION OF FRUIT IN FRANCE. 881 steam, until they are softened, then remove them and put them in fresh, cold water. Pare them as lightly and promptly as possible, prick them from the head to the core, cut and scrape the end of the stem, and throw them into a quantity of fresh w ater, alumed and acidulated. Put them again on the tire, cooking them until the hc:ul of a pin enters easily, and the hole closes on withdrawing it ; then put them again into fresh water, lightly alumned or sharpened with lemon juice. Preserve them with the same precautions as quinces and apricots. As the pears are easily candied, the sugar must be thickened with apple jelly or glucose. Peaches.— Choose fine peaches, before their maturity, and quite firm ; whiten them and preserve them whole, or in quarters, like apricots, being careful not to boil them, for it is a very tender fruit and liable to fall into marmalade. Green gages. — Take green gages of a good size without being ripe or colored, of a fine green rind, firm, the stone being detached easily. Cut the end of the stems, and prick them in divers places, notably near the stem, with a little bodkin. Put them in a basin full of water on the fire, or with steam, so that they may have ample room. As soon as they become yellow, remove them from the fire, and throw in a pinch of salt, vinegar, and spinach, or verjuice. Blue vitriol is also employed, but in small quantity ; to make them green again let them remain quiet for some hours, then put them on a slow fire without boiling, stirring them from time to time until they again become green ; then increase the heat, and as they rise to the top of the water, re- move them and put them in fresh water, removing it several times until they become thoroughly cool. They are preserved with sugar like other plums. Chestnuts. — Which grow very large in this country and are much sought for as an article of food. Take the fine chestnuts of Lyons or Lucques, rend off the outside with a point of a knife, being careful not to touch the meats, and put them in a proportional quantity of fresh water. When they are all prepared, put them on a quick fire, or with steam, with a large quantity of water. Boil them until the skin can be removed and they become tender, of which assure yourself with a pin, then remove them from the fire, and change the warm water, diluting the second water with a little flour to preserve the whiteness of the chestnuts. Peel them as promptly as possible to prevent them becoming too tender, and also not to break them, for this fruit is one of the most difficult to preserve, and all possible precautions must be taken. Put them in a proportional quantity of hot sugar reduced to 20° ; keep them warm over a slow fire, covering each dish with linen or white paper. The dishes must be provided with faucets to drain them more easily. Proceed to preserve them with the same care as with apricots; they may be iced with vanilla. Some confectioners do not give them the shape or fashion for fear of spoiling them, for they separate easily at the least contact with too strong heat. They keep them continually warm in a drying stove or slow oven. With steam or a hot water bath, they decant them from time to time ; or stir them, the sirup can be reduced to 32°. This means ia very diffi- cult and only a small quantity can be made at ft time. ICED FBUITS. The preserved frnits are iced to dry them. They are drained, then passed through lukewarm water to wash them, then put an hour or t'.vo iii a drying stove in an earthen dish. Sugar cooked to the grade nu petit souffle is put with them, and they are made to take a covered boiling, are skimmed, the basin taken from the fire, and placed on a t;il>l«». in an inclining position, where the sugar is massed on the border of the basin with a spatula. When the sugar commences to whiten, turn one or several of the fruits in the whitened portion, remove flu; in with a fork, and spread them on a grate or strainer placed ovejr a disU or mold to candy. 882 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. When the fruit is small and the sugar commences to grain, mix the whole together, raise tbe fruit quickly with a skimmer and put it on a strainer. When the fruits are soft it is necessary to cook a little harder and mass the sugar more than for hard or dry fruits and rinds. This ice is now kept for use, and when wanted a little sugar is added each time. When thick or gelatinous, it is cooked and massed more, or replaced. CANDIED FRUITS. Drain the preserved fruits, wash them in lukewarm water, and put them on a strainer on the stove to dry. When they are dry put them side by side, and put them between two strainers made for the purpose, and place them thus in a mold to candy Take sugar cooked au petit souffle at 36° to 37°, and pour it slowly over the fruits from above, and then place the mold in a drying stove, heat to 40°, drain when sufficiently candied, ordinarily at the end of five or six hours. Fruits that are dry and firm are also candied cold, the candy is finer and less subject to mass, in that case the sugar is cooked 1° or 2° less, is put to candy at night and drained the next morning. SUGARS. I now, perhaps, have sufficiently presented the processes required by my instructions, but it seems important, to make matters clear, that something be said concerning the various forms of preparation of sugar that are used in the business. Only clarified sugar is used, and this is reduced to sirups of various densities. The degree of density is ascertained by a pdse sirup, an aerometer invented by Beaume\ , The first condition of cooking which I shall mention is called La nappe", and the sugar weighs 20°. AVhen, in dipping the skimmer into boiling sugar, after a turn of the hand the sirup spreads along the skimmer, it has reached this stage. Petit lisse'.-The sugar weighs 25°. Some boilings after la nappe, pass the forefinger on the skimmer charged with sirup, and apply it against the thumb. If in spreading these two fingers you see a little thread which breaks immediately, leaving a drop on the finger, you have petit Ussd. Grand lisse". — The sugar weighs 30°. When the thread has more consistency, and spreads more, you have grand lisse". Petit perle. — The sugar weighs 33°. Grand perU. — The sugar weighs 34° and 35°. If at last in speading the two fingers the thread sustains itself without breaking, you have the grand perU. The attentive workman will distinguish these two cookings by the aspect of the liquid. Jt pro- ducers large, high, round bubbles going out from the boiling in the form of pearls. Petit souffle— The sugar weighs 37°. It will be recognized when, in blowing through the holes of the skimmer after it has been shaken, the liquid forms little bubbles on the Hide opposite, which lightly detach. This is the petit souffle' employed in icing fruit. Grand souffle". — The sugar weighs 38°. After some boilings operate as in petit souffle". If the bubbles are larger, reuembling soap-bubbles and maintaining themselves a uiuujint, it is the grand souffle. Or dip your finger in fresh water, plunge it in the CRYSTALLIZATION OF FRUIT IN FRANCE. 883 sugar and dip it again in tlm water, if there remains a little compact sugar at the end of your finger you have the same thing. The same means are rmployi'd for the cooking of gros candi. Petit bouM. — The sugar weighs 39°. Dip your finger in fresh water, then in the boiling sugar, and then again in the water. If it forms a soft ball which one can turn in the tiiigers you have the cooking for bon bons with liquors. Grand bo*U— The sugar weighs 40°. After some boilings more renew the preceding operation. If the ball is larger and harder you have the cooking for preserves which are not clear. Petit CO886. — After some boilings operate as before. If in cooling the sugar it breaks ; if it attaches to the teeth, it is a petit \ casst. After the grand bould, the degree of the sugar is no more observed. It is then the cooking of the twisted sugars, or sucrestors. Grand casse", — When after being further cooked the sugar produces a little simmer- ing in water and adheres no longer to the teeth, it is a grand coast. This is the cook- ing of barley sugar, caramels, burnt almonds, etc. An experienced workman will readily recognize it by the crackling which the sugar makes in the fingers. J. E. IKISH, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Cognac, November 25, 1885. RHEIMS. REPORT BY CONSUL FR1SBIE. While crystallized fruits (fruits glaces) are kept on sale by all first- class grocers and confectioners, and quite extensively used by the peo- ple, they are not manufactured to any extent in this district, for the principal reason that the fruit grown here is not of sufficient variety, quality, and quantity for the purpose, and by reason of its scarcity it usually commands too high a price to make the business profitable. I have found that the industry of manufacturing crystallized fruits, and other preserving methods, is carried on in Southern France, the great center of the industry being at Clermont-Ferrand, in the department of Puy-de-Dome, about 100 miles west of Lyons, which is tke greatest fruit- produeiiig section of France, and where fruit of many kinds is nearly al- ways plentiful and of the best quality. The dealers in this section usu- ally purchase their crystallized and other preserved fruits from the wholesale houses of Paris, who receive it in large quantities from the section named, and in some considerable quantities from Nice, where it is also quite largely manufactured. It is said that this fruit is not so finely and nicely made at any other place in France as at Clermont-Fer- rand and at Nice. There is at Eheims, however, an occasional confec- t ioner of the first class, who finds himself in a position to advanta- geously manufacture his own fruits, but this is always done on a small scale and only for the needs of his local customers and never for whole- sale nor for export, and which my information teaches me they manu- 884 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. factnre according to the following methods, and which are said to be substantially the same as that employed in the large establishments in the south of France : CRYSTALLIZED FRUITS. Begin the operation by dipping the fruit into hot, melted sugar for a moment ; let it drain and dry. Then wash it lightly in lukewarm water, after which put it in earthenware pans or dishes and place it in a warm (not hot) oven for a couple of hours. Cook some sugar over a slow fire in a copper dish at 105° of heat; put the fruit in the boiling sugar for a few seconds ; skim ; remove the dish from the fire and place it on a table in an inclined position and collect the sugar on the side with a spatula. When the sugar begins to whiten roll the fruit in it, one or two at a time; remove it with a fork and^ place it on galvanized or tinned-wire sieves or grates, over earthenware dishes or candy molds. When the fruit is small, as soon as the sugar begins to granulate mix the whole, fruit and sugar, rapidly together and remove quickly with a coarse skimmer, placing the fruit on a wire sieve as above described. If the fruit is soft cook it a little more, and stir the sugar longer with the spatula than if it be hard, dry, or of the rinds. v Keep the glazing (sugar) for future use, and, if necessary, renew it by adding more sugar. Should the sugar become pasty, cook and stir it longer, or, better still, replace it with fresh glazing. CANDIED FRUITS. First dip the fruit in hot melted sugar for a moment, let it drain and dry. after which wash it lightly in lukewarm water ; then place it on a sieve to dry in a warm (not hot) oven. When it is dry cook some sugar over a slow fire to 95° or 100° of heat. Place the fruit side by side between two galvanized-wire sieves or grates in a candy mold ; pour the sugar carefully over the fruit and then place the molds in an oven heated to 105°. When the fruit is sufficiently candied, which is usually accomplished in five or six hours, remove and let the fruit drain and dry. Fruit that is hard or dry may be candied by the cold methdd, the candy being finer and less liable to granulate. Cook the glazing to between 95° and 100° of heat. Place the fruit in the glazing in the evening and remove it the following morning, when it is allowed to drip and dry. CARAMELED FRUIT. Begin by preparing each kind of fruit, according to its nature, to be dipped into the caramel, a substance obtained as follows : Cook about 2 pounds of clarified sugar, which is preferable to melted sugar, to which add a spoonful of glucose to prevent its granulating, and cook it until it becomes hard and brittle when placed in cold water. Place CRYSTALLIZATION OF FRUIT IN FRANCE. 886 aH earthen or copper dish in an inclined position over a slow fire or over hot coals lightly covered with cinders or ashes so that the sugar does not get cool. Dip the fruit in the sugar and then place it on a sieve or haug it on strings over an oiled marble slab ; for small fruit , on wire sieves or grates made for the purpose, and for large fruit, such as oranges, chestnuts, etc., simply place them on the marble. If the fruit has been prepared on strings, cut the strings and pla<;e the carameled fruit on sieves and put it away in a dry place. If the fruit has been done on skewers, especially oranges, remove the skewers before the caramel is completely cold, as otherwise the caramel gets broken and the juice of the fruit escapes. When removed in proper time the hole made in the fruit by the skewer is easily closed up by the warm caramel. Fruit should only be carameled a few minutes before serving, so as to be nice, fine, and fresh. Carameled fruit can be either served up in fancy structures and forms or separately. When carameling fruit two or more persons should always be engaged in the operation, as the car- amel should be kept hot and never allowed to cool, as if it is reheated it will granulate and redden. To caramel fruit wooden skewers, string, or galvanized or tinned wire may be used. In carameliug cherries there are three things to be considered, viz : If fresh they must be very fresh and sound, and have the stems cut short, that is, about half length; (2) if the cherries have been preserved they must be dried before the operation ; (3) if brandy cherries are used they must be allowed to drip and be left a few minutes in a warm oven. They are either tied together or fastened on skewers, then dipped and hung up to dry. Chestnuts. — Eoast the chestnuts slowly so as not to scorch them ; re- move the shell and inner husk. Put them on skewers and dip them in the caramel. In removing them give them a twirl, so as to spread the caramel evenly over them and lay them on a slightly oiled marble slab. Oranges. — Choose the finest and firmest fruit, remove the peel, divide into quarters, remove all the white with a knife, taking care not to cut the skin, as the juice would come out and dissolve the caramel. Put them on skewers on a sieve and place them in a warm (not hot) oven, to be slightly dried before dipping. Finish as with chestnuts. Oranges should be skewered through the center so as to prevent the juice from running when the skewer is withdrawn. Preserved fruits. — All kinds of preserved fruits, such as apricots, small oranges, plums, nuts, pears, dates, prunes, etc., can be carameled by following the foregoing instructions. Only care should be taken that the fruit be first washed in luke-warm water to remove the sirup and then dried in a warm oven. Grapes. — Fresh or dry Malaga grapes are frequently used and grapes of the country in their season. Several grapes are fastened on galvan- ized wire, and the bunches thus formed are fastened to a wooden skewer; 886 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. they are then dipped into the caramel and then placed on small wire sieves, of which the meshes are made of proper size to hold the grapes, and placed as usual above a marble slab. Small fruits, such as currants, raspberries, strawberries, almonds, filberts, hazelnuts, etc., can be carameled, but care should be taken that the fruit be separated when removed from the sugar. JOHN L. FKISBIE, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, y November 11, 1885. BORDEAUX. REPORT BY CONSUL ROOSEVELT. Having carefully examined the methods employed in crystallizing fruits, I am enabled to report as follows : All fruits indigenous to France, and a few select fruits from other countries, as also several species of soft shell-nuts are employed. The kettles used are generally of copper (much broader than deep, to prevent crushing the fruit), provided with a wire frame placed 1 or 2 inches from the bottom to protect the fruit from scorching. When ready for use they are three-fourths filled with water, which is heated to boiling point (95° centigrade) and covered by a towel or straw cover. The fruit should be gathered several days before maturity ; and, if possible, early in the morning of a dry day. The first important step is the bleaching, or, more properly speaking, the parboiling of such fruits as are to be subjected to this preliminary process. The fruit should be picked and bleached the same day to obtain best results. The pits are carefully removed and the fruit plunged into very cold water before being transferred to the kettle. During the process of boiling, the fruit is occasionally gently stirred, so that each separate piece may be equally cooked. When the fruit begins to settle at the bottom of the kettle the fire is reduced for ten minutes, then gradually increased until the fruit again rises to the surface and becomes sufficiently tender to be punct- ured with a straw. They are then carefully removed from the* kettle with a skimmer and dropped into very cold water, which is renewed several times, or until they are thoroughly cold j they are then placed upon wire frames to dry. The boiling should be accomplished quickly so as to submit the fruit to as rapid and sudden change of temperature as possible. The boiling is generally done over an open fire, but the most satisfactory results are obtained when steam is employed, as it is an easier matter to regulate the heat from steam necessary to the differ- ent kind of fruits. Great care must be taken in the first boiling, since the fruit, if over- done, falls to pieces, and if underdone the pores are compressed, prevent- CRYSTALLIZATION OF FRUIT IN FRANCE. 887 ing a thorough permeation of the sugar, aud in consequence the fruit becomes tough, dark in color, and soon grows moldy. When the same water is used a second time for the purpose of boiling, it is thoroughly cooled before receiving the fresh fruit ; it is then slowly heated, the temperature being maintained at a low point for a considerable time. When the fruits are not sufficiently soft after the first boiling, they are put into a hot sirup (invariably made of cane sugar) of 25° of density, the water remaining in the fruit is absorbed by the sirup and is gradually reduced. After the preliminary boiling in water the fruit is submitted to the sirup daily for five or ten days, or until the sugar has thoroughly penetrated the pores. After each boiling the fruit is carefully removed from the sirup and put into a cool place to dry. The sirup for the first boiling is always 25° of density, and is increased 2° each day until it reaches 36°, excepting in cases where it is necessary to submit the fruit to the sirup twice in the same day, then it is only in- creased 1° and is not allowed to boil, but only to scald the fruit. Fruits are crystallized with and without rind, whole, in halves, and in quarters. Pears, apples, quinces, aud oranges are generally crystallized peeled. To retain the delicate coloring in such fruit as the apricot, pear, peach, aud chestnut, it is necessary to add to every hectoliter of cold water 40 or 50 grams of pulverized alum. Some confectioners employ lemon juice, verjuice, salt, sugar of milk, and epsom salts, to preserve the whiteness of the fruit after boiling and sulphate of copper, vinegar or salt, to retain the green color natural to certain fruits. When the crystallized fruit is destined for warm countries it receives additional cooking. The fruit when crystallized is packed in boxes con- taining from a quarter of a pound to two pounds each. There are several establishments in Bordeaux devoted to the crystal- lization of fruits. The most important of which is that of Alexander Droz & Co., to whom I am under obligations for much valuable infor- mation. Their average annual sale of crystallized fruits is 160,000 pounds, t he half of which is consumed in France. Their annual export- ation of cherries alone to England and Russia is 24,000 pounds. It is estimated that very nearly 700,000 pounds of fruit is crystallized at Bordeaux annually. The average cost per pound (not including the price of the fruit) to the producer is 15 cents, or $15 per cwt. The fruits in greatest demand on this market are apricots, cherries, and chestnuts. The separate preparation of each I give in full below. APRICOTS. The apricots should be picked several days before maturity. An in- cision is made by a knife at the head, and the pit gently forced out, the unripe parts are lightly pricked, and the fruit is then plunged into very cold water containing a little alum or lemon juice. The water is changed frequently before the fruit is transferred to hot sirup of 20° of 156A 32 888 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. density, preparatory to boiling. After boiling, the fruit is taken from the sirup and removed to a cool place until the next day. This process is followed for five or six days, each day increasing the density of the sirup 2° until it reaches 36°. The fruit is only permitted to boil after the first cooking if it continues too firm ; if soft, it only simmers. The kettle containing the fruit is removed from the fire, and as the sirup begins to whiten the fruit is carefully turned in the whitish parts and then removed from the kettle and placed on a wire frame to dry. CHERRIES. Large cherries should be chosen. After the stems are removed the pits are taken out, the cherries are placed on a dish side by side, with the open side up, and covered with powdered sugar ; layer after layer is thus formed until the dish is filled ; it is then set aside until the next day. They are frequently stirred, and finally are slowly cooked and crystallized. CHESTNUTS. The large chestnuts of Lyons, France, or Lucques, Italy, are preferred. The outer shell is removed, care being taken not to bruise or break the nut. They are immediately put into cold water, from which they are transferred to a large kettle of boiling water, where they remain until they become tender ; they are then taken from the boiling water, freed from the skin surrounding them, which is a delicate operation and should be accomplished as quickly as possible, as the nut is liable to crumble, and in consequence is difficult to crystallize. Once peeled they are put into sirup of 20° of density, and are kept hot over a slow fire. The kettle is covered with a towel or piece of white paper until the sirup begins to whiten. The kettle is then removed and the same process followed as employed in crystallizing apricots. GEO. W. EOOSEVELT, "Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Bordeaux, November 19, 1885. NICE. REPORT BY CONSUL HATHEWAY, OF NICE. The art of fruit crystallization, as employed in France, is, in theory, a process by which certain fruits are preserved by withdrawing their juices which lead to fermentation and substituting a thorough satura- tion of sugar. The successful practice of the art depends largely on the judgment and experienced skill of the confectioner, for many conditions, inde- pendentv of any formula, may operate in favor of or adversely to the desired results. CRYSTALLIZATION OF FRUIT IN FRANCE. 889 The nature of the soil from which the fruits have been produced must first be carefully considered. Confectioners here prefer, therefore, to select their fruits among those grown on a dry soil, as such are more palatable, damp land producing those too soft, or of an insufficient firm- ness of fiber to support the fabrication. The process also is modified by the variety of fruit used, and its de- gree of hardness or ripeness; and the exact adaptation of the sirup thereto is also a requisite to complete success. For instance, pine-apple demands a density of sirup of only 18°, while other fruits of less consist- ence require according to their kind a sirup up to a maximum of 42°. Again, some fruit must receive a special preparation. Thus cedars, mandarin, and bitter oranges should be soaked first in a bath of sea- water, often changed, which gives them consistency and removes a dis- agreeable flavor which renders them otherwise unfit for use. All fruits produced here, apples excepted, can be crystallized, but the more "fat" the fruit the less easily the sirup penetrates into its pulp; thus oranges admit the process easily, but plums much less readily. The oranges used for this purpose are gathered at times commencing when the fruit is hardly formed, and has simply the firmness and taste of fruit, and continuing until when nearly ripe and of full size it be- gins to be somewhat colored. PROCESS OF CRYSTALLIZING FRUITS. The fruit is plunged into very hot water for a short period, or until it is white or has become bleached. It is then completely drained of water and placed in a sirup of white sugar which has been cooked until a small quantity separated between the thumb and forefinger forms slight filaments, and it is adapted in strength to the hardness, softness, and degree of ripeness of the fruit employed. In this sirup the fruit remains until the mixture of juice and sirup shows a white clouded appearance, indicating the beginning of fermen- tation. The whole is then again subjected to heat and raised to the boiling point and then removed. Such alternate fermentation and boiling is usually three times under- gone, the fruit and sirup remaining together from two to five weeks, according to the kind and quality of the same. Eed copper boilers, with iron handles at the sides, and containing about 25 pounds, are used -in the process. BEAUM£ AEROMETER. The aerometer employed to show the amount of sugar which the water contains is • about 8 inches in length, formed in ordinary glass, and in weight the same as the volume of water which, when used, it dis- places. 890 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. One end of this is heavy, that it may stand upright in the liquid, the center has a chamber of rarified air, and the other extremity is a slen- der tube, on which is marked a graduated scale from the top toward the center of its length, and numbering 50°. The rising of this tube above the liquid shows the density of the sirup. One of the confections made from this preliminary process is styled u crystallize ; " the other " glace." To crystallize the fruit thus prepared (as in the foregoing description) it is taken from the sirup and dried in a room at a heat of 100° F., when the sugar appears in small crystals on its surface. " Glace " is pre- pared by removing the fruit from the sirup and allowing it to dry grad- ually. The sugar thus forms a glaze on the fruit, which gives it its name. PRODUCTION AND COST. The quantity of fruits thus preserved in this consular district can not be accurately determined, as there are no statistics of these products. The following data per year may, however, be received as nearly cor- rect: Pounds. Nice 90,000 Cannes 30,000 Mentone 15,000 Monaco 10,000 Whole amount 145,000 The expense of labor and sugar employed in the manufacture of them may be estimated as follows : (1) 1£ pounds of sugar to 1 pound of fruit, cost price of sugar, 14 cents ; (2) labor, per pound, of production, 5 cents ; entire cost of sugar and labor, 19 cents. One pound of crystallized fruit is sold here at the manufacturers7 wholesale sales, at from 28 cents to 50 cents, according to its kind and quality. 1 am indebted to the most experienced confectioners of this district for the foregoing information, and especially to the courtesy of M. Yog- gade, of Nice, and J. Negree, of Cannes. ALBERT N. HATHEWAY, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Nice, December 1, 1885. Consul Dafais, under date November 9, 1885, sends the following translation of a letter of the mayor of Clermont-Ferrand on the subject of crystallized fruits : CLERMONT-FERRAND, November 7, 1885. In answer to your letter, 28tb last month, I have the honor to transmit to you the following information which Mr. Dionis, confectioner, has been pleased to give me : " The candying (glaceage) of fruit is an operation learned entirely by practice, ajid whujh is difficult to describe. THE DATE-PALM IN PERSIA. 891 "When the fruit is well drained boil the sugar briskly, pat the drained fruit in it cover up yonr pan (a large one) after one boiling, then withdraw it from the fire, work your sugar until entirely melted. Take the fruit out with a skimmer, put them on gridirons in a drying stove. The price of candied fruit varies according to qual- ity and kind from 2 to 4 francs per kilogram (abont 2± pounds)." THE DATE-PALM IN PERSIA. REPORT BY MINISTER PRATT. [Repnblishod from Consular Reports No. 86.] As a first result of my endeavors to obtain practical information on the subject of the date-palm (Phcenix dactilifera), with a view to its introduction into the United States and cultivation along our South Atlantic and Gulf coast and in Lower California, I have succeeded in gathering from Persian sources the following : The date-palm is found in countries situated within the zone of 16 and 30 degrees north and south latitude. Incept, however, in rare instances it will bear no fruit in localities removed 120 or 135 miles from the sea. There are two methods employed for propagating the date- tree ; one by setting the date stone, the other by transplanting the seedling (self-sown). When it is desired to raise a plant from the stone of the date one perfectly ripe and faultless is selected and both ends are either filed, or scraped off with a knife, until the inner kernel is laid bare. It is then planted in a mixture of gravel, sand, and camel manure. From twelve to forty days usually elapse before it makes its appearance above ground. It will then put forth long, narrow, thin, and tender leaves, somewhat the shape of a saddler's needle. From the fourth to the seventh year it produces nothing except long, rough, reed-like leaves. It ist however, possible that during this period the tree may, from its leaves, which resemble the shoots of the oleander, bring forth other leaves j but owners of palm gardens pluck off these in order to give the tree a graceful appearance. Under no circumstances, how- ever, do they touch the leaves that shoot out from the crown of the tree. If its head is severed from its body the whole tree withers and dies. Each individual plant is either male or female. When the tree has attained its full stature a flowering branch is cut from the male palm and applied to the half-open flower bowl of the female, thus giving it the fecundating principle without which it can not mature its fruit germs. In no instance has it been recorded by botanists that one of these trees possessed in itself the different natures of male and female, and for this reason was it that the Arab ^avants classed the palm as the first of the vegetable kingdom and the last of the animaL 892 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The height of the date-palm varies from three to twelve meters. The tree itself will indicate the time of fruit bearing. When it has arrived at its maturity it will cease its upward growth and throw out from its head a large mass of long, broad, green, leaves, which protect the neck from the glare and heat of the sun. The young seedlings must be removed from the foot of the parent tree in the month of January, and planted and reared according to the foregoing instructions. In Persia the palm is grown near the ports on the Persian Gulf; also, in the hot districts of Kerman, Khurzistan, and in the oasis of Jandak. E. SPENCER PRATT. LEGATION OF THE UNITED STATES, Teheran, July 3, 1887. CULTIVATION OF THE ALMOND TREE. REPORT BY CONSUL MATHEWS, OF TANGIER. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 4H.] Soils, etc. — The almond is a tree of third magnitude, and is remark- able for the facilty in raising it, for its hardiness in standing continued droughts growing in the poorest soils, in the sands, gravels, and amongst rocks ; and finally for the abundance of and high price which its fruit commands. In fact, the almond-tree being the easiest and cheapest to rear and cultivate is the most useful tree to industry, medicine, and the arts. California abounds in soils which are considered, owing to their locality, lightness, or hilly nature, unprofitable or unfit for any use but pasturing cattle in certain seasons of the year, which, if planted with almonds, would become sources of great wealth and utility. The cult- ure of almonds is in fact the easiest, most economical, and productive. At the sixth year the almond trees commence to yield by far greater product than the expenses incurred in their raising and cultivation, owing to their rustic habit, requiring no care from the time of their planting to the long period which these trees live. i The many varieties of almonds are variously described ; they are di- vided in two groups, the sweet and the bitter almond. l?he most prom- inent are the Princess almond, the largest and most superior of all ; others, large, soft-shell, and large, sweet almond, very much sought ; the common almond, with a small fruit 5 sweet almond, with a tender shell 5 Jordan almond, with a tender shell and a large, sweet kernel. These almonds are largely exported. The Sultana almond, or Ibiza of the Balearic Islands, with a small fruit and tender kernel ; the Pista- chio almond, with smaller fruit than* the last mentioned, and a variety of hard-shell and bitter almonds. CULTIVATION OF THE ALMOND TREE. 893 Propagation. — The only and usual mode of propagating the aimoud is troin seed. The soil preferred by almonds is a light sandy soil; excessive or even great richness is to be avoided, as in this the trees will produce large and luxuriant branches and foliage, but no fruit. The hardiest almond is the bitter, and is preferable as stock for budding or grafting on a given variety. The next hardiest for stocks is the sweet, hard-shell almond. The land selected should be plowed or worked with hoes im- mediately after the first rains. In the month of November or December small holes are dug, as if for sowing water-melons, and distance 20 feet each way. Procure the nuts of the last season and those which have not been much exposed to the air. In procuring almonds for seed the best quality of soft-shell almond must be used ; then they will grow as standards, requiring no budding nor grafting, producing fine almonds even if some issue the hard-shell variety. Plant an almond in each hole from 1£ to 2 inches deep, but not deeper; sow them with the sharp point upwards, without breaking their shells. They will come up in about thirty- five to forty days. The first year they should be protected against frost and snow with sticks and straw around them, for, hardy as they may be when once established, they would be in some danger while young. They must be kept clear of weeds, and in the spring the sur- face of the soil should be stirred. On the second year trim off the lower shoots and head down those in exposed positions or intended for dwarfs. The buds that are pushing on the main stem should be rubbed off; branches, where they are wanted, should be encouraged, and the buds, where shoots are not wanted, rubbed off. It is far better to prevent the waste of strength in wood that has to be pruned off; then the almond will require no pruning, but an annual removal of dry branches. In order to provide and replace with plants those holes where the seed has failed to come up, there should be a number of almonds sown in some selected place near at hand ; sow them as you would walnuts, or rather plant them at regular distances 8 inches or a foot apart every way, and 2 inches deep; in the spring they may be transplanted to their definite places, and well watered. Fertilizing. — The best fertilizers of the almond trees are grass, weeds, leaves, etc., buried around them. Almonds are grafted or budded on pluin stocks when it is desired to retard their bloom, but it is consid- ered more certain, in order to avoid the only defect of the almond tree, precocity to plant the trees in sites exposed to the north winds, in cold places, in order to retard flowering as much as possible, and escape the spring frosts. Maturity. — The almond tree comes into full bearing in the eighth or tenth year, according to soil and climate. The fruit is gathered when quite ripe and allowed to dry before it is cleaned and packed. Yield. — The annual product of the almond varies according to the age or situation of the plant ; a twelve-year-old tree may produce from 8 to 16 pounds of unshelled almonds — the average yield is 12 pounds — 894 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. which sell readily at 10 cents per pound in France, Italy, Spain, and even Morocco, the above being the lowest wholesale price ; and should the trees stand 20 feet apart, at the rate of a hundred trees to the acre, the yield per acre will be 1,200 pounds, of the value of $120 per acre. If we take into consideration that the culture of almonds in a favorable climate is carried on on lands which are often useless for other crops, and the expenses of cultivation very small, often absolutely nil, it will be seen that it is a most profitable culture. FELIX A. MATHEWS, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Tangier, April 2, 1884. GRAPE-VINE FERTILIZER/ REPORT BY COMMERCIAL AGENT MALMROS OF ST. ETIENNE. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 117.] M. George Ville, the eminent professor of vegetable chemistry at the Paris Museum of Natural History, writes as follows : During the last five years I have been devoting myself to the study of new formu- las of chemical fertilizers. The one employed for the grape-vine, in 1889, at the experi- mental vineyard of Vincennes, has yielded 20,000 kilograms of raisins per hectare, equal, say, to 180 hectoliters of wine. The receipe is as follows : Kilograms. Superphosphate of lime, at 15 per cent 400 Carbonate of potash, refined, at 90 per cent 200 Sulphate of lime 400 Total 1,000 The manner of employing this fertilizer is very simple. A little cup-shaped cavity is made with the spade around each vine and into this cavity one pours the quantity of fertilizer, which has been ascertained by dividing the 1,000 kilograms by the number of vines on the hectare. A common water-tumbler may serve as a measure by sur- rounding ths tumbler with a thread at the height of the dose required. After the fertilizer has been applied, the hole is filled up with the earth removed in order to make the hole. In case the vineyards are of very great extent, one may proceed in a still simpler manner— one spreads the fertilizer in front and behind the vines and covers it with earth by plowing. This manure ought, as far as practicabll, to be applied in autumn, in November and December, or in case this can not be done, in January and February. The above recipe is applicable to every variety of soil on which vines are grown. I have only experimented on French vines, but am convinced that the above fertil- izer will have the same effect on American vines. To the above recipe I may add that it is desirable to trim the vine stocks but little, and to let them remain tall, very tall. This will have a tendency to avoid the attacks of the phylloxera, for it is a fact well demonstrated to-day that vines on trellis- work have been free from suoh attacks. The Amie>, ScientiQque, indorsing the recipe of Professor Ville, says that, in view of the fact that in the entire south of France short-cut THE CITRON OF COMMERCE. 895 vino stocks are of immemorial tradition, the recommendation to keep them very tall (taillr it Inny hois) constitutes a bold i n no vation, but feels DO hesitation in advising viticulturists to reform their habits in this respecl in order to place themselves in the conditions prescribed by the distinguished chemist for the application of his recipe. I am informed that the above-mentioned large production of the ex- perimental vineyard at Vincennes can not exhaust the soil, as the said fertilizer fully restores to the soil all the ingredients consumed by the- production of the crop of raisins. I am also informed that the favora- ble consequences of keeping the vines tall may be attributed to the cir- cumstance that vines kept in that condition are provided with plenty of leaves, which constitute the respiratory as well as digestive organs of the plant, and that an abundance of leaves are required in order to give vigor and productiveness to the vine; that, on the contrary, a de- ficiency of leaves causes a decrease of sugar in the raisins and, in course of time, probably, a tenderness or sponginess in the roots. OSCAR MALMROS, Commercial Agent. UNITED STATES COMMERCIAL AGENCY, St. Etienne, June 4, 1890. THE CITRON OF COMMERCE. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 61.] ITALY. ROME. REPORT BY CONSUL-GENERAL ALDEN. As citron is not grown within the limits of this consular district, 1 have been able to obtain but a limited amount of information in regard to it. The citron tree, or shrub, will grow wherever lemon or orange trees grow. It nourishes, however, only in a sandy soil and in the immediate neighborhood of the sea. It is most successful in sheltered situations on the shores of bays. As might therefore be expected it is largely grown on the Ligurian coast, which is sheltered by mountains from the north wind, and also in the Southern Mediterranean provinces of Italy, and in Sicily. The French island of Corsica is probably the most pro- lific citron-producing district of the Mediterranean Basin. The present Corsican crop is estimated to be nearly 5,510,000 pounds. Great care is needed in the cultivation of citron. The fruit when full grown is large and weighs from 1 to 3 pounds, and will, unless the branches are carefully propped up, either break them or bend them to the ground. 896 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The average crop per acre of citron can hardly be ascertained, as the size of a crop depends upon so many conditions — such as the climate and soil. If we assume that each shrub or tree is planted 3 yards from every other, which by many growers is regarded as the best arrange- ment, we should have 1,110 shrubs to the hectare. If the average prod- uct of each shrub be assumed to be 14 citrons, we should have a total product of 15,400 citrons to the hectare, equivalent to 6,231 citrons to the acre ; or, assuming the average weight of the fruit to be 1 J pounds, about 9,346 pounds to the acre. The cost of production varies so greatly in different localities and at different times that no trustworthy and generally useful answer to the question of cost can be given. In the neighborhood of Genoa, how- ever, it is roughly estimated at about $68 per acre. More citron is imported into than is exported from Italy. The fol- lowing table shows the imports and exports of citron for three years : Year. Imports. Exports. 1882 . .. . . Pounds. 3 896 701 Pounds. 513 019 1883 3 996 791 341 719 1884 2 713 454 262 672 The greater part of the imports of citron comes from France, and nearly all from the island of Corsica. Citron is chiefly prepared for the market at Leghorn, which is the most important citron port in the Mediterranean. The fruit is first put into a salt pickle, in which it is allowed to lie for three months. This pickling in the case of the Corsican fruit is done to a limited extent by the Corsican citron grower, but as a rule it is done after the Corsican fruit reaches Leghorn. The next process consists in dividing the fruit into halves and quarters, and packing them into sugar sirup, The sirup when first used is weak, but its strength is gradually increased by additions. Four weeks is the ordinary period during which the fruit remains packed in sugar, after which it is ready for the market. The market price everywhere fluctuates greatly. During the present year the price at Leghorn has varied from $14.47 to $22.19 per 50 kilo- grams, or 110.20 pounds. To some extent, so it is said, these fluctua- tions were due to the speculative condition of the market in New York, where the price has varied greatly. WILLIAM L. ALDEN, Consul- General. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Rome, November 29, 1885* THE CITRON OF COMMERCE. 897 LEGHORN. REPORT B\ CONSUL SA.RTORI. CULTIVATION. The citrons which are subsequently converted into the candied citron of commerce are grown chiefly in Greece, Calabria, and the islands of Sicily and Corsica. Most of those 'which come to this port, Leghorn, are from Corsica, where it is claimed the finest qualities are produced. The citron tree is of the same family as the orange and lemon, and is propagated by cuttings, which begin to bear fruit the third year after being planted. It bears one crop of fruit yearly, which matures and is gathered during September and October. The trees are pruned every year, the branches being made to grow as much as possible in the shape of a hollow circle. They are also manured yearly, generally with stable dung. In summer it is essential that they should be kept well watered j otherwise, if there should be a drought, the trees suffer, and the fruit will drop off or will not attain its full size. The citron tree is more sus- ceptible to damage from frost and cold winds than the orange or lemon, hence sheltered situations with a favorable exposure are sought for plant- ing them, and hedges of brushwood disposed so as to protect them from the winds. The fruit resembles a huge lemon, and is often so large and heavy that it must be supported on the tree. They are shipped to the factories for candying, sometimes in sacks, but usually in large hogsheads filled with brine. On being taken out of these hogsheads or sacks they are placed in tubs containing fresh brine and left for about a month. The brine is then renewed, and the fruit may remain in it until required for use, even for a period of four or five months. CANDYING CITKON. When the citrons are to be candied they are taken out of these tubs and boiled in fresh water until sufficiently soft, which is ascertained by testing them with a fork. This usually takes about one and one- quarter hours, and they are then cut into- pieces, the seeds carefully removed, and they are immersed in cold water and left for twenty-four hours, and become a green color. After this they are placed in large earthen jars with hot sirup, which should entirely cover them, and re- main about three weeks. During this time the proportion of sugar in the sirnp is gradually increased. They are then put into boilers, with crystallized sugar dissolved in a little water, and cooked ; then allowed to cool for twenty-four hours, and boiled again until they can absorb no more sugar, and then taken out of the boilers and placed on a wire netting to dry. They are now ready for packing and are placed in small wooden boxes containing about 25 pounds each, and these in their turn are packed in cases (half cases they are termed in the trade) which contain ten of them. The proportion of sugar used in the proc- 898 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. ess of candying is SO per cent. — that is, 80 pounds of sugar to 100 pounds of citron — and the kind used is generally Egyptian crystallized sugar, which costs at the factories 11.85 cents per pound. The Govern- ment allows a drawback at the above rate — that is, 80 pounds of sugar to 100 pounds of fruit — on such as is subsequently exported. As the duty is 5.7 cents per pound, it being returned makes the cost of the sugar used in candying the fruit afterwards exported 6.15 per pound. There are nine factories for candying citrons in Leghorn, employing about 300 men and producing annually 4,400,000 pounds. In 1884 the United States took of these 1,921,341 pounds, valued at $214,652.23, and up to the present date in 1885 they have taken 1,819,764 pounds, valued at $261.566.61, a decrease in the quantity and an increase in the valuation. The remainder is sent principally to Holland for distribu- tion through northern Europe and England. As there are no citrons grown in this consular district, it is difficult to give correct figures as to the cost of producing this fruit. The price paid by tbe merchants here varies according to the supply, 5J to 6J cents per pound being about the average cost of the fruit in brine at the factories. The article is handled almost entirely by speculators, and the prices of the candied fruit show great variations. While during the early autumn the prices ranged from 16J to 18 J cents, it can now readily be purchased for 13 cents per pound. VICTOR A. SARTORI, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Leghorn, December 21, 1885. MESSINA, REPORT OF CONSUL JONES. THE CITRON TREE. Formerly in the Province of Messina the, citron (Citrus medico) was extensively grown in hedges, as dividing lines between neighbors, but within the last twenty years this tree has been nearly exterminated in this vicinity by the diseases known as (jomma (bleeding) and cagna (foot- rot). The citron was the first of the citrus family introduced into Europe. In its bearing and general appearance it is the most strongly character- ized of the genus. The tree is low, with a full head ; it is strong-shooting ; its shoots are tender and straggling; its leaf is large, thick, oblong, wingless, and toothed. Changes occur at short intervals in the vitality of the tree. It frequently happens that healthy shoots live but one or two years; hence the necessity of cutting off the vertical shoots to prevent sudden disturbances in the head of the tree that would exhaust THE CITRON OP COMMERCE. 899 its strength. The diseases of the citron are constitutional, and prema- turely destroy its life. The most promising subjects suddenly cease growing and became chlorotic; the branches gradually turn yellow, and are often covered with scabs, from which exudes coagulated sap re- sembling gum ; the sores assume a cankerous appearance, and the tree dies. The citron's dying out to such a great extent in this province was due principally to its propagation by cuttings. It has been found that where the citron was budding on an orange seedling, and more especially on a sour orange, it acquired a stronger constitution and did not grow in such a straggling manner. The citron blooms at all sea- sons of the year. The flowers are white inside and purplish outside. Black ants destroy many of the blossoms. Once set, the fruit grows rapidly. Citrons often weigh from 6 to 8 pounds. The fruit presents a bumpy appearance; its base is full and flat; its perfume is delicious. It is necessary to prop up the branches of vigorous trees, as unassisted they could not support their heavy fruit. Good culture doubtless would improve the nature of the citron and perfect its development, but it cannot prolong its life, which is very short compared with that of the citrus family generally.* Citron trees receive the same attention as the orange and lemon trees among which they grow. From March to October these trees are worked five times. Irrigation is found indispensable. During the summer, the dry season, the trees are watered twice a week. The average cost of cultivating an acre in orange or lemon trees is $50 a year. The distance between these trees is from 14 to 20 feet, according to the soil and the location. SHIPMENT OP CITRONS. The citrons now exported from Messina are brought from Eeggio, in Calabria. They are shipped in brine, and are prepared as follows : The citrons are cut in halves, thrown into casks and salted — 100 pounds of salt to the cask. The casks are then filled up with sea- water, and turned on their side. The citrons are left to soak from fifteen to twenty days. The casks are then opened and the citrons weighed — 770 pounds of citron are allowed to the cask ; sea-water and a little salt are added, and the cask is ready for exportation. A small auger-hole in the bung permits the gas produced by fermentation to escape. The casks are of chestnut. They cost $3 apiece, and contain 105 gallons. It costs $1 a cask to cut and salt the citrons, and $1 a cask to pack them, cooperage included. PRICES AND EXPORTS. A citron tree bears from 35 to 50 citrous, which are worth to the grower fro»i 5 to 10 cents apiece. First quality citrons weigh 1 pound and upwards. Last year citrons on the tree sold for $20 the 220 pounds. * For the above details I am indebted to the comprehensive work of Prof. F. Alfonso " Coltura degli Agrumi." 900 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. November 1, 1885, they brought $17 the 220 pounds ; December 1, 1885, they fell to $12.50. Salted citrons, November 1, 1885, were quoted at $64 the cask; December 1, 1885, at $59. November and December are the great shipping months; the fruit is then half grown and half ripe. The custom-house statistics show, for the year ending December 31, 1884, that 455,400 pounds of citron in brine; valued at $16,560, were exported from Messina. No preserved fruit is shipped from this port. England, France, Genoa, and Leghorn are the principal markets for the "citron of commerce." WALLACE S. JONES, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Messina, December 8, 1885. NAPLES. REPORT OF CONSUL OAMPHAT7SEN. CULTIVATION. The cultivation of the citron begins with the sowing of the seed of the bitter orange, being the same seed from the fruit of which marma- lade is made. After four or five years, when the seed has produced plants or small trees, they are transplanted, at the time of blossoming, in regular rows, at a distance of 25 centimeters. When they have a diameter of 8 centimeters they are grafted with small citron branches. The grafting is indispensable to give long life to the trees and hasten the production of the fruit. Three years after the grafting the tree is transplanted into a ditch 1.25 meters wide and 1.50 meters deep, at a distance of 4 meters from one another. In planting the trees in the ditch particular care should be taken not to injure any part of the roots. The leaves are taken from the trees and the branches cut back to the length of 20 centimeters. The ditch is filled with earth to a depth not exceeding 25 centimeters, left sufficiently loose to allow the roots to spread with ease, and prevent smothering the plants. If the plants do not sprout at once the earth on the roots is loosened and moistened. For fertilizing old horse-manure or other old manure is to be applied. No fresh manure ought to be used, because it would be injurious and have a tendency to kill the plants. Manure should be used only in the winter, between October and March, and be placed at a distance of 10 or 15 centimeters from the roots. Around the tree a deepening in the shape of a basin should be formed, and unless the ground be moist or damp the plants require frequent applications of water during the summer. THE CITRON OF COMMKRCT,. (J01 In Sorrento the planting is done from March to June, according to the state of the temperature ; grafting during the same months. The rest of the cultivation is the same as Cor the orange and lemon. Hoeing and pruning of useless limbs are done in May. The tree requires great protection against severe cold or very warm winds, as well as against hailstorms. In order to give it as much protection as possible hedges are planted and coverings of straw-matting or something similar pro- vided, having regard to the situation of the tree and the means within reach of the cultivators. The plant is much more tender and delicate than the lemon. The tree blossoms between March and May and up to the months of September and October, at which time the fruit is ripe. In about two years' time the grafts will begin to bear fruit, and after six years, if the ground and climate suit, the tree will bear from 40 to 50 kilograms of fruit a year, and when in full age up to 2 quintals, and perhaps more. The greatest part of the expense in the cultivation is caused by cov- ering the tree to protect it against the winds. In milder climates this expense is not incurred, and the only outlay is for manuring and hoe- ing. These expenses vary according to the price of labor in the differ-, ent localities. When the ground is of the right kind — that is, loose and moist — the climate mild, there is a great profit made in the culture of the citron. The exact amount of the profit can not be given, as it varies accord- ing to the price obtained for the fruit, which is subject to great fluctua- tions, ranging from 15 to 100 lire per quintal on the ground. This year, for instance, garden citrons have sold at from 30 to 70 francs or lire a quintal on the ground. Some years when Corsica, where the citron is cultivated to a very large extent, gave large crops, the fruit sold for 15 lire a quintal, while at other times, when the crop was small, 100 lire a quintal was paid. PACKING AND PRESERVING. This fruit is packed the same as lemons, wrapped in paper and boxed or barreled. The fruit is not candied for exportation in this neighborhood, but senj. to Leghorn or Genoa, to large factories for this industry. The information received on the subject of preserving the fruit is as follows : The citron is cut in two or four pieces ; it is then placed on the fire and boiled until the inside can be easily taken out with a spoon then soaked in cold water for 4 or 5 days, and the water changed twice a day, until the citron has lost its bitter taste. To every kilogram of fruit 1 kilogram of sugar and 1 liter of water is added, and placed over a slow fire and left standing for two days. Then 100 grams of sugar to every kilogram of fruit is added, and the boiling process repeated, left again for two day 8, and then again repeated 902 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. at intervals until the sirup is thick. The fruit is then dried in an oven or before the fire, and can be exported in wooden boxes. According to another authority, the fresh citron is divided, the pulp taken out, and the rinds are then steeped in brine for several weeks. They are then boiled in sirup until the rinds are quite cooked ; they are next dried and boxed, as above described. Others again, after taking the rind out of the brine, boil it in water for two days, changing the water two or three times per day and begin- ning each time with cold water ; then 1 kilogram of sugar to one-half kilogram of water is taken ; put into the quantity of sirup thus made 1 kilogram of the rind a*s above prepared. Each day for six or seven days bring the fruit now in the sirup to a heat in which you can just bear your hand, adding 50 grams of sugar each time. Let the fruit in this sirup become cold, and, as above, add 50 grams. Make another sirup of 1 kilogram of sugar to one-half kilogram of water ; boil for one-half hour ; then take the fruit out of the first sirup and put in the last prepared, which should be exceedingly hot, and boil the fruit ten minutes, stirring it at the same time. Thus the last sirup is absorbed by the fruit, and it becomes dry. The citrons, both fresh and in brine, are exported in immense quan- tities from Messina, Palermo, and other places to foreign countries, but chiefly to the English markets. EDWARD OAMPHAUSEN, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Naples, December 19, 1885. SICILY. REPORT OF CONSUL WOODCOCK OF CATANIA. ' In this district, comprising the southeast third of Sicily, the land rises gradually from the sea- shore to the summit of ^Etna. The mountain is a little over two miles high, and Sicily is in a semi-tropical climate. The slopes of ^Etna, therefore, have every variety of climate fro^m the semi tropical to the frigid, according to altitude. Citrus groves make beautiful these slopes with their vivid green , from the sea-shore to an altitude of about 1,000 feet. At this higher altitude the cultivation of the orange and lemon is not so profitable, owing to the uncertainty of a crop. Heavy frosts at such an altitude are liable to injure the buds. The fruit, however (called montegna), is of the best quality. The orchards that skirt the ^ea-shore bear abundantly, and seldom fail in producing a good crop. The fruit (called marina), is inferior to the mountain fruit, and both trees and fruit are more subject to dis- ease and pests. THE CITRON OF COMMERCE. 903 The most desirable locality for a citrus orchard is that most distant from the sea and not of such an altitude as to lie within the frost line. PROPAGATING THE PLANT. There are four methods of propagating the citrus plant ; by the seed, by cuttings, by grafting, and by budding. The seeds for planting are taken from the choicest fruit when per- factly ripe, and are planted in the spring in some warm sheltered spot from 4 to 5 inches apart. The soil should be composed of loose earth and well-rotted manure. The young plants should be sparingly but frequently watered. The plants must be transplanted to the orchard after the growth of a year or two. To propagate by cuttings, young healthy shoots that are straight are selected. They should be about 1 foot in length, and must be planted in the ground to the depth of 4 or 5 inches in a soil similar to that used for the seed. Care should be taken to plant the cutting upright, as it grew upon the tree. When the cutting becomes well rooted, and has had a healthy growth of a year or two, it may be removed for final planting to the orchard. The grafting and budding methods, which are so commonly practiced, need not be described. Citrus plants in this part of Sicily are propa- gated almost entirely by the budding method. For the stock upon which to bud, use is made of the bitter-orange tree. The bitter orange is indigenous to this climate. It is more hardy and less liable to disease than those that bear the choicest fruits. Its natural fruit has no value, but the Sicilians sometimes convert it into a kind of preserves. For the purpose of propagating the choice fruits, the bitter-orange plant is grown in nurseries from the seed. When the plant is a year old it is transplanted, and when it has attained a growth of about 1 inch in diameter (being three or four years old) it is again transplanted to the orchard. ORCHARD. The distance to be maintained between the trees in the orchard de- pends much upon the location and nature of the soil. When the locality is warm and the soil is naturally rich, mellow, and of easy culture, the distance between the trees must be greater than when the soil is hard and the climate colder, because the trees will grow more luxuriantly and form larger tops. In such a soil, for lemons the plants should be about 24 feet apart, and for oranges about 17 feet. When the soil is naturally hard and poor and the climate colder, the distance between the trees ibr lemons may be about 20 feet, and for oranges about 13 feet. The judgment of the horticulturist must determine this matter. When the bitter-orange plants are thus transplanted to the orchard the tops are cut off about 4 feet above the ground. When they become 156A 33 904 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. well rooted and of healthy growth, they are budded from the choicest varieties of orange and lemon. Two buds are generally inserted in the stock opposite each other. The orchard is thoroughly cultivated, being worked over with the mattock and spade at least five times during the season, commencing in March and ending in October. The ground when the trees are young does not require so thorough a cultivation. The plants are irrigated whenever they require it. For this purpose the streams that tumble down from -/Etna are utilized. Where this is impracticable, water is elevated from wells by steam or mule power. Some grow vegetables between the trees, but this practice is con- demned by the best horticulturists. As to the time when the trees begin to bear a full crop much depends upon the climate, cultivation, and fertility of the soil. Generally they commence to bear a full crop when fifteen years old. As to the longevity of the citrus tree, there is here a diversity of opinion. I have been told by some horticulturists that the lemon and orange budded upon a bitter-orange stock will live and continue fruit- ful from one to two centuries. Doubtless they will live and continue to bear from fifty to one hundred years. Lemon trees are healthy and vigorous, bear annually on the average about a thousand of the fruit, and oranges about six hundred. There are instances in which trees have borne ten times the number specified. GATHERING AND BOXING THE FRUIT. The time for gathering the fruit for export is here in the month of November. For export to so distant a country as America, the best and soundest fruit is generally selected. It is plucked when not fully mature, and is yet of a greenish color. In gathering the crop great care is taken not to bruise the fruit. It is plucked by hand, and gently deposited in a basket that is lined with cloth. The stem is not removed from the fruit, but is cut off about a quarter of an inch from its base. Great care is taken in preparing the fruit for market. Each indi- vidual fruit is carefully cleaned of all insects, or injurious matter, with a sponge and cold water, and is wiped perfectly dry before boxing. The fruits are carefully assorted. Those that are large, plump, and healthy in appearance, without marks or spots upon the surface, are boxed by themselves, and denominated " first class." Those whose skins bear any blemish or otherwise are not fine in appearance are boxed by themselves and denominated " second class." The boxes for the fruit are so constructed that they will hold from 250 to 360 of the fruit. Each box is inspected to see that no nail or sliver protrudes to injure the fruit. It is then lined with common silk paper. Each individual lemon is enveloped in the same kind of paper THE CITRON OF COMMERCE 905 prior to being deposited in the box. The boxes ar 3 frequently opened, inspected, and all infected fruit removed. Especially is this done just prior to shipment. Laborers in citrus orchards reciveas wages from 30 to 40 cents a day, without food being' furnished to them. In summer they are required to work ten hours a day, and in winter eight hours. The cost per annum of cultivation in the best orchards per hectare (H.471 acres), as estimated by a practical grower, Mr. Augustus Pera- toner, United States vice-consul, is on the average 650 lire ($125.45). DISEASES AND PESTS. The diseases and pests attacking the citrus trees in this part of Sicily are as follows : A disease called the " colla " (glue) sometimes (though not often in this district) affects the citrus. It is said to be caused by a sudden change from a high to a low temperature ; this checks the exhalation of the tree, and the matter to be exhaled accumulates within until it bursts the passages and forces its way out through the bark. On com- ing in contact with the air it condenses in drops of a light-yellow gum. The only remedy for this disease is to cut off the branches infected. A parasitic growth of a fungus nature frequently gathers upon the bark of the trees. The lemon tree is more subject to this than the orange. It is removed after a heavy rain, or after thoroughly soaking the parts affected, by scraping. An insect called the pidocchio nero (black louse) infests the bark, leaves, and fruit of both the orange and lemon j also, an insect called thepidocch'io bianco \ white louse) infests in a similar manner the lemon tree. In appearance it is like a minute scale or scab, of oval form, and attaches itself with great tenacity to the bark, leaves, and fruit. This insect prevails to a large extent in our orchards. As a remedy, a wash of lime-water is used ; also, water slightly tinctured with kerosene. The fruit of both orange and lemon is sometimes injured by an insect called the fly. It makes its appearance in the beginning of summer, and commences its devastation by stinging the fruit and depositing therein its eggs. These eggs develop into grubs, which destroy the fruit. When the fly tirst appears the fruit on the tree should be frequently washed. The water should be applied with a sponge. Some slightly tincture the water with kerosene or soda. Fumigating the trees with the smoke of sulphur has also been tried. No remedy has yet been dis- covered that effectually destroys the noxious pests. Good ventilation, thorough culture, and plenty of sunlight are the best preventives. EXPORTS TO UNITED STATES. In the export of citrus fruits from Catania to the United States dur- ing the past three years tUere has been a gradual decline. This is prob- 906 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. ably owing to the decline in prices. There were exported from Catania to the United States of lemons and citrons— Years. Boxes. Value. 1882 1 241, 107 $441, 227. 72 1883 228, 857 324, 284. 84 18*84 168, 575 391, 068. 20 ALBERT WOODCOCK, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Catawia, November 25, 1885. CUBA. REPORT OF CONSUL PIERCE OF MATANZA8. In the district of Matanzas the citron, though not indigenous to Cuba, is to some extent cultivated here, but not as an article of commerce. Scarcely any attention is paid to its cultivation, and, like a great many other useful products, it is almost entirely neglected, owing to the prior preference for the staple product, which up to this day is the sugar- cane. It may be surprising that an article so universally growing in the island should not appear as an article of export, but to one well and thoroughly informed as to the tendency of the agricultural class here it is not surprising. Nearly every farm-house garden or plantation has a few citron trees growing. The soil is eminently adapted to its culti- vation, and, in the production of it, it is flourishing and florescent, but as small cultivations have been entirely abandoned in preference to the sugar-cane, there has been neither foreign exportation nor an interior commerce in the article — at least in this district. The citron is used to a limited extent here as a tonic and for pre- serves. In its use as a tonic or a medicinal article only the outside bark or peel is used. The interior is used as a refreshment and fofc pre- serves. The citron is grown on a bush about three yards high. From the time of planting, in about two years, fruit may be expected. It will grow in any ground, but rich earth is naturally preferable. As the fruit has never been attentively cultivated here, it is almost im- possible to digest the many opinions given by the isolated cultivators who have given it any attention ; but I have given what I deem a fair synopsis of the various data obtained, and will add that it is deemed and classified as hardy as the orange, FRUIT-TREE CULTURE IN COGNAC. 907 Propogation may be done by planting the seeds (but production is later in this way), or by catting, or, as in the case of the banyan tree, by intertwining branches which readily take root. FRANK H. PIERCE, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Matanzas, November 17, 1885. MADEIRA. Acting Consul J. Hutchinsou writes from Funchal under date Decem- ber 3, 1883— The cultivation of the fruit on the island is on so small a scale that it is impossible to obtain any definite information. There are a few trees in two or three districts, on the lands of small holders who never think of making any calculation as to the cost of culture, yield, or profits. The fruit is sent into town in small parcels for sale to the shippers. The.present prices range from $1 to $2 per hundred, according to size. The buyer places the fruit in a cask with sea water for shipment. It all goes to London, the average annual shipment being about 50 casks of 1,000 citrons each. MEXICO. Consul James Viosca, of La Paz, Mexico, reports, under date Novem- ber 24, 1885, that, while the citron has never attained a commercial importance in Lower California, the tree thrives luxuriantly, bearing yearly an abundant crop of very deliciously-flavored fruit, weighing from 1 to 5 pounds each, thus proving the fitness of the soil did a market exist for the produce. A small quantity of the green or seasoned fruit is yearly exported to the ports of Mazatlan and San Bias, for domestic uses in making sweet preserves, or what is known as fruta enbuelta en azucar. Otherwise it has no commercial importance. FRUIT-TREE CULTURE IN COGNAC.* REPORT BY CONSUL EARLE. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 10Q.] There seems to be several reasons for dwarfing fruit trees, distort- ing them out of their usual shapes, and planting tnem in queer and unusual places and positions. These reasons may be stated, according to my observations, as follows : (1) For economy of space. 0 * As carried on in the Billardiiie, a garden near Cognac, belonging to Mr. Hennesy. 908 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. (2) For protection against weather. (3) For facility of making medical applications when the tree shows signs of disease. (4) The facility with which the ripening of the fruit may be acceler- ated or forced. (5) For ornament. Let us glance a moment at these various objects, and how they are accomplished. (1) Economy of space. The great bulk of the land holdings here are small — very many of them very small — and as grapes for brandy making was the great, the all-absorbing crop, every rood of available land was concentrated to that to the exclusion of everything else whatever. And after the prosperity of the country was gone, through the death of the vines by the phyl- loxera, the farmer required all his land for food crops to support his family. So in both cases, avarice and poverty, the fruit tree, a luxury, had to take the wall Again, in close built quarters in town there was naturally no space for fruit or vines. There is almost always a court yard, however," and along the walls of this the thrifty Frenchman has strung his fruit trees. On the outside he takes up a flag-stone from the pavement of the side- walk, prepares a place, plants a vine, and replaces the stone so as to conform to the new conditions. The vine grows, its stem is supported against the wall to a height, say, of from 10 to 12 feet, when it is trained out laterally between the upper and lower windows on a sort of a horse- rack shaped frame of iron rods. Thus it forms a beautiful ornament to the dead white house front and furnishes many a welcome cluster of juicy grapes to the breakfast table at no cost. (2) Protection against the weather. This is by no means a rigorous climate, measured by Few York stan- dards, although by reference to a map it may be seen that Cognac is about the latitude of Montreal, Canada. The Gulf stream has so modi- fied the climate, however, that the u winter isotherm," so to speak, would fall about Macon, Ga., Montgomery, Ala., or Columbus, Miss. It was not colder here last winter — an average season — than in any of the three southern cities. But, remembering the latitude, it will be seen that the shortest winter days are only about eight hours long, and after that the long, cold night. Then the wind blows chill and cold, piercing even to the joints, and on still nights the frost lies like snow on the ground. As to snow itself, other than as a feathery shower, melting almost as soon as it falls', it is rare. So with sleet — that sleet which even in the far south thickly glazes all out-doors, from leaf, twig, and stem of tree and plant to roof of house and bed of road — here it is al- most unknown. Still, as this climate is ill adapted to such delicate fruits as peaches, apricots, etc., some sort of artificial protection against cold and frost is necessary for theui, and they obtain the best protection FRUIT-TREE CULTURE IN COGNAC. 909 from the wall itself. The body of the wall protects against the wind and driving cold, and the screens and sheds, which can be readily adapted to the wall, against frost and snow. These screens are made thus : The walls are almost invariably capped with a coping or fluted tiles projecting several inches; under the little shed thus formed a slanting frame of iron rods and wires is adapted, supported below by braces of the same metal. Upon this frame and overhanging the trees is placed a blanket of straw made by the gardener himself at a nominal cost ; if this is not enough, it is very easy to hang similar mats of straw or old rugs, etc., against the wall and in front of the trees. (3) For the facility of making medical applications to the tree when it shows signs of disease. The trees here are subject to many ailments, some affecting the present or prospective crop of fruit only, and others touching the life of the tiv»* itself. French horticultural therapeutics seems to limit itself to a solution of sulphate of copper and quicklime (tbebouiUie bordelaise), or a solution of sulphate of copper and aqua ammonia (the eau celeste). The solutions are applied by means of a spray apparatus, or an atom- izer, and when the tree is fairly spread out against the wall, as in the methods of cultivation now under consideration, these applications are a very simple matter. (4) The facility with which the ripening of the fruit may be acceler- ated or forced. From what has been said under the second heading it needs no further argument to show how the early heat of the sun may be utilized for the ripening of the fruit and what measures should be taken to protect the tree and its fruit against sudden loweriugs of the temperature in the late spring. Suffice it to say that the thrifty gardener, by making use of the means above indicated, can get his apricots early into market when they bring him 5 to 6 cents apiece. Lastly, for ornament. All the gardens here are surrounded by high stone walls, and, of course, no gardener of taste or feeling could permit his wall to remain white, bare, and naked. Hence many of the designs used are merely to hide the nakedness of the wall. They have but little practical utility so far as bearing fruit is concerned, and are maintained in the forms in which they are drawn with infinite difficulty. Some- times, after several years of careful management, tb«rtree is gotten into the desired elaborate form, when suddenly, to the great disgust of all concerned, half of it dies and its symmetrical beauty is gone. With this style of tree culture, however, I have but little sympathy, since it is much easier to get vigorous, hardy trees, bearing fruit, whose forms are more graceful to my eye than those intended merely for orna- ment. So much, then, for the raison d?ttre of this method of tree culture. Let us glance now at how the results are obtained. (1) The first requisite is, of course, the wall. This should be from 9 910 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. to 12 feet high, depending on the size of the garden or inclosed space. It should be covered with some sort of slightly projecting coping, as tiles or slate, and should be of sufficient thickness to insure its stability. Here, where the whole soil is nearly underlaid with soft chalk-stone, the cost of the wall is a mere trifle — the trench for the foundation and that for the trees furnish nearly enough stone for the purpose. (2) After the wall is built some sort of trellis should be attached to it upon which to tie and train the trees. The poorer gardeners employ a plain wooden diamond-shaped trellis, made of slats nailed against the wall. The walls of the best gardens, however, are provided with trellises of iron wire, and each strand is furnished here and there with thumb-screw swivels so that they may be drawn taut when required. This is much the neater, more desirable, and, in the long run, more economical system. (3) A trench should be dug at some slight distance from the wall for the reception of the new plantation. The distance from the wall and the dimensions of the trench will depend on the height of the wall as regulating the height of the tree arid the kind of fruit-tree to be planted, say, ordinarily, 1J feet from the wall and 2 feet deep by 3 or even 2J feet wide. This trench should DOW be filled with carefully prepared upper soil, or loam, mixed with a suitable quantity of stable manure. The tree, or vine, is now planted, in the month of November or Febru- ary, with the stem slanted through the side of the trench and towards the wall, and, its first bent being given it, attached to the trellis. Here let me stop a moment to say that the consensus of opinion among gardeners here seemed to be decidedly in favor of seedling trees in preference to budded or grafted stocks. Of course, if a bough can not be gotten where it is desired to have it by natural means, that is, if a wood bud can not be found at a point where a limb is required, this want may be supplied by a bud artificially introduced, or by a graft. Still, the French gardener prefers to deal with a seedling in the first instance, holding that it is easier to give it the desired shape, and that the buds for the production of lateral and other boughs may be more certainly counted on than is the case with grafted or budded stocks. Having now arranged the preliminaries it becomes a question of what shape shall be given to the trees. For my own part, I much prefer the rather simpler forms, say the U forms and their modifications, or the candelabra forms. The best of all the forms, however, both as to beauty and utility, I regard the palm-shape and its modifications. There are other very good shapes, the names of which I have been unable to get. My distinct preference, also, is for the forms which have vertical or ob- lique branches, for these reasons : The sap of a tree has always a tend- ency to mount, and under ordinary conditions the best fruit will be found oi) the ends of the branches or the periphery of the tree. There- fore, the oblique forms follow more nearly untrammeled nature, and thus yield better general results. As a proof of the foregoing may be FRUIT CULTURE IN MENTONE. 911 cited this fact : If a horizontal form is sought after, and one side of the tree (that is, tin* boughs forming one side) develops at the expense of the other, or if any one bough on the one side is weaker and smaller than the corresponding branch on the other, the condition is easily remedied by bending the overdeveloped branch downwards or the atro- phied branch temporarily upwards. In either case the sap quits the dependent for the elevated branch, and soon they are brought to an equal development, when the restraints may be removed. Whatever form is selected, however, the trunk of the tree should not be allowed to grow higher than 12 or 15 inches. At this height it should be made to branch or bifurcate, and the branches then arranged in such forms as may be desired. I can not here go into the various methods of prun- ing and training. These will vary, naturally, with the sorts of trees with which we have to deal. Suffice us to say that all redundant growths are to be cut away, and even the bearing branches pinched back from time to time as the exigencies of the tree and its crop require. One word as to the results obtained here by this method of fruit-tree culture. In my judgment it is the only system practicable in this climate, but with the protection which the trees thus obtain even peaches and apricots do fairly well. I have counted, for example, a hundred well formed, beautifully colored peaches on a single U-shaped tree whereof the stem was no larger than my wrist. EDWARD P. BARLE, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Cognac, August 21, 1889. FRUIT CULTURE IN MENTONE. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT VIALE, OF MENTONE; TRANSLATED BY CONSUL WILSON, OF NICE. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 54.] Two promontories of the Maritime Alps, Cape Martin and Cape Mar- tola, descending to the Lear, form in the Mediterranean, at the gates of Italy, the beautiful gulf which the ancient geographers called Sinus Pacts. From the midst of the semicircle, protected from the winds of the north, the east, and the west, another promontory advances, less important, which finishes in low hills at the edge of the sea. In this delicious corner of the world was formerly found a little village, sur- rounded by olive and lemon trees, which were reflected in the azure sea — this was Men tone. One day some travelers, wandering on the Corniche road, perceived its picturesque situation and learned of its mild climate. It required but few years to bring to it renown, and the little village has become 912 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. n town, where the valetudinarian and the chilly people from all the countries of the world meet' during tbe winter season. During the season of 18S2-'83, 2,500 families from a distance came to warm them- selves under our sun. There were 87 American families, making about 350 individuals. The reports of subsequent years will doubtless sho\\ an increase. Mentone an<) its environs was the ancient station " Lumone" of the Roman road of Julia Augusta. In this small territory are cultivated the lemon, the vine, and some fruit «trees. THE LEMON. The lemon tree is propagated by sowing the seed. Generally it is pref- erable to sow the seed of the bitter orange, and graft the lemon on the plant when it shall have acquired a certain strength. It requires about ten years7 growth to obtain a productive tree. The lemon is cultivated on the plain, and on the sides of ^the hills, or wherever it can be irri gated. For this culture, as well as that of the olive and the vine, the hills are terraced with stone walls. One are (4 square rods) of ground contains ten lemon trees. According to the strength of the tree it yields during the year from 100 to 500 lemons, and even more. The tree requires much care. It. must be manured. For this they use the common farm manure, the scraping and refuse of horn, and old woolen rags. In summer the trees must be watered at least every two days; must be dug about in winter, and the soil loosened every year. The lemon tree nowers all the year, and the fruit is gathered every day. The harvest is divided into three grand epochs. The first and second blossoms, produced by the nowers of spring, are harvested from Novem- ber to February and March. Then follows the Grandtte (second grade) harvested from March to September, at which time the Verdamie (third grade) begins to ripen. In a good season the harvest amounts to 30,000,000 lemons. The culture of the lemon is diminishing for two reasons : First, because much of the land is now being occupied by hotels and villas ; and second, the workmen have become scarce and the price of labor high, so that the culture has become an remunerative. % The lemons from Mentone, though not so fine as those of Messina, were formerly much preferred for exportation during the months of March and April because they could be sent fresh from the trees, while those from Messina, having been harvested in the previous November (their harvest is but once a year) were already five months in boxes. One can scarcely form an idea of the care necessary in picking and handling the lemons and in packing them for exportation. Formerly one-half the population of Mentone were thus employed. The merchants had their chosen laborers of much experience to gather the fruit, make the boxes, and do the packing. FRUIT CULTURE IN MENTONE. 913 Since this pretty village lias become a winter resort, the habits of the villagers, in respect of their \vork and their wages, have changed greatly. The picturesque capellina which shaded the face of the young Mentonaise has been replaced by fashionable hats, veils, and parasols from Paris. The young men have become valets, chef* de cuisine, wait- ers, etc., and thus the cultivation of the lemon is left to strange and ignorant laborers. This has lost to Mentone its export to the United States, for fruit badly gathered or poorly packed arrives at its destination in a pitiable state. The first choice lemons are usually sent to the North and to America ; the second quality are used in France and Italy. The first quality are those having no blemish, are large and fine, and not too ripe to stand the long voyage. The lemon and orange trees are subject to divers maladies: La Morfea. — A sort of louse which eats the rind of the fruit, and also covers the tree in its worst stages with a ^disgusting white mildew. When this malady attacks a garden the trees are unproductive for years. La Fumie is another malady, which turns the branches and leaves of the tree as black as though they oaiue from a chimney. For some time past they complain of a little worm which attacks the center of the flower, eating the pistils. Hail will also destroy the fruit, but happily this rarely occurs in Mentone. The changes of weather, such as a prolonged spell of damp weather, predispose the fruit to certain maladies which may develop in the packed fruit if not well guarded by an experienced packer, and even with the best care in choice of fruit and packing the fruit of certain years is more likely to spoil and rot. The exportation of lemons to the United States, as taken from the books of the agency, has been as follows : Year. Invoices. Cases. • 1873 51 42 016 1874 ... 70 48 710 1875 12 15 612 1876 29 47 339 1877 . 17 15,909 i878 3 4 059 1879 13 10,726 1880 1881 1882, 1883 1884 None None Ca.ses packed for the United States contain 360 lemons. THE ORANGE TKEE. The oranges of Mentone have but little commercial value. The trees ornament and perfume the gardens and furnish a passable fruit for the table. Very few, if any, are sent away. 914 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The culture is much the same as that of the lemon tree. It flowers but oiiee a year, in the spring, and the fruit is perfected about every other year. It resists the cold better than the lemon tree. It flourishes at Mce and Cannes, where the lemon does nofc grow successfully. THE GRAPE VINE. The grape loves the hills. It prospers at some distance from the sea and 200 or 300 meters from its level. All land seems to agree with it, but especially that which is stony. The vine is propagated by branches or shoots, having 6 or 7 buds, and about 50 to 60 centimeters long, which are buried in the ground with the aid of a piece of iron, leaving only one bud, or eye, out. Before planting the vines the land is dug up about 1 meter in depth, the vines are planted from 80 centimeters to 1 meter distance, and 1J meters is better. At the end of four years the vines commence to produce. A vine in good condition, well cared for, ought to produce at least 1 kilo of grapes for each stock. At the third year they commence to tie up the loose branches to stakes or trellises. The vines are manured with woolen rags, bone shavings, and stable manure. The soil must be worked two or three times per year, for the vine will permit no other to partake at her table. It must be white and light, into which the vine roots may push at will and receive all the nourishment possible. The pruning is done in January and February, and two or three times a year the straggling and useless branches are trimmed off to prevent the sap being wasted on branches not destined to bear fruit. The best means of pruning is to leave one large branch at the bottom of the vine with two buds, or eyes, only, which will produce two new branches for the next year, and to leave at the top of the vine a fine branch with several eyes. Every eye will produce a branch with at least one bunch of grapes ; and the year following, this branch will be cut away to per- form the same operation with the two new branches which will have been left at the bottom of the vine. The vines are never watered, as that would injure the quality of the wine. i The country of Men tone produces scarcely enough wine for a month's use. Italy and the center of France furnish the rest. The wine of Mentone is somewhat strong and heady. We class it between the wines of Burgundy and Spain. It is the type Maruverno. The grapes are sweet-black, with round seeds. Other varieties are the Varlentin, the Rossese, the Salerno, and the Tobacco; but all are in such small qic-antities that they are mixed in the cellars and are known only as a Maruverno. Latterly some proprietors have brought Blips from Alicante. The FRUIT CULTURE IN MENTONE. 915 wine, in small quantities, is good, and is distinguished from the Maru- verno. The maladies which attack the vine are the oidium and phylloxera. The first shrivels the leaves, destroys the grapes, and puts the vine in danger. Happily the flour of sulphur is a sufficient remedy. The sec- ond, much more terrible, are microscopic worms attacking and covering the roots of the vine. Its ravages have extended more or less over all France. Happily Mentoue has thus far escaped, though the scourge has appeared within the department. THE OLIVE TREE. / The olive trees of Men tone are several centuries old ; they are said to have been planted in the twelfth century by the Crusaders. They are propagated by means of young plants which are detached from the parent tree with some roots. This is the theory. Actually none are propagated in late years. The same reasons mentioned as affecting the lemon, to which must be added the slow growth of the olive, have conspired to turn trade into other channels, and the propa- gation of the olive tree has nearly ceased. Ten or twelve years are necessary for the growth of a small tree commencing to yield fruit. The life-time of a man, fifty or sixty years, or even a hundred, is necessary for a full-grown tree. They grow in the plain and on the hills. A full grown tree in a good season will yield 60 to 80 liters of oil. One can never have two good harvests in two consecutive years j for- tunate if you have one. A fruit which remains a year on the tree is mbject to many dangers. Sometimes the early heat burns the flower, ir the wind blows it or the fruit off the tree ; a prolonged rain prevents the gathering, or destroys the fallen fruit, or the dryness of the season may blight it, etc. But the greatest enemy of the olive is the worm. Myriads of small tlu s (Musca oleavia) sting the olives and deposit their eggs, which in a short time attack the pulp of the fruit. These worms go around the fruit and then go out in the form of a new fly. These in turn attack the remaining olives, so that the entire harvest can be destroyed in less than a month. The ground must be worked once a year ; useless or dead branches lopped off every two or three years. The olive is never watered here, as water is almost always scarce and sometimes insufficient for the lemon trees. The olive oil of Mentcne and its neighborhood is good, and is used here and sent to other parts of Fran je. Including the surrounding country, the product of a very good sea- son has been from 15,000,000 to 20,000,000 quintals of oil (a quintal is 100 kilograms; Ji kilogram is 2.20469 pounds avoirdupois). The olive tree flowers in March and April. The fruit is gathered from Novem- FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. her to April. The best oil is made from that gathered in March and April when the fruit is most mature. MISCELLANEOUS FRUITS. The fig, the peach, and the plum are grown in Mentoue, but only for home consumption and in small quantities. They have no place in commerce. PERFUMERY. Perfumery is made from the lemon and orange rinds and from the leaves of the bitter orange ; but there is only one establishment, its exports are principally to Germany and Eussia. N. YlALE, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, Mentone, April 1, 1885. FRUIT CULTURE IN ZANTE. REPORT BY CONSULAR AGENT CROWE. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 44.] In accordance with the instructions contained in the circular ad- dressed by the Department to this agency, in date of December 4, 1883, requesting information on the fruit culture of this island, I have the honor to furnish the following particulars, derived partly from personal observation during my long residence in Greece, and partly from data kindly imparted to me by some of the best and most practical cul- tivators. CURRANT-GRAPE VINEYARDS. Raisins, such as are generally known by this term, are not prepared here, though many varieties of the grape grow in profusion in this isl- and. The currant-grape was originally imported here by refugees from Corinth in the year 1530 A. D. It is a small, purple grape, free from seeds, and now forms the staple production of this island, the adjacent island of Cephalonia, the Morea (Peloponnesus), and is also cultivated to a certain extent near Missolonghi, Lepauto, and the islands of Ithaca and Santa Maura. The position of these vineyards is mostly on the plains bordering the sea-coast j the foot of a wooded hill, the deposits from which enrich the soil below it, with a sunny aspect and good circulation of air, is con- sidered the best position. Although many vineyards extend right down to the sea, the plants within 500 or 1,000 yards of it are liable to suffer. Sea fogs and mists are not considered injurious. The>mildew ( Oidium FRUIT CULTURE IN ZANTE. 917 tuckeri) which first appeared amongst the vines in 1 852, is most effica- ciously combated by sprinkling finely-powdered sulphur (imported from Sicily) over the shoots and leaves, say, just before the flowering, and if required to be repeated, at intervals before the ripening of the fruit, it is either applied with a small perforated hand dredger or by means of a bellows with a recipient made of tin attached to it which contains the sulphur ; the latter is more generally in use. The mode of pruning, in principle, is much the same everywhere, but the height of the stem, and other peculiarities in the form given to the plant, is somewhat different here to what it is in the Morea. The best results are mostly obtained on a rich, light soil, with an ad- mixture of sand in it ; but it is a singular fact with the currant-grape that, however carefully it may be cultivated, it will not give the same results as to size of berry, color, saccharine substance, or aroma in all districts. For instance, the Zante currants (as indeed all the island currants) are much smaller in the berry than those produced on the mainland, but they have more aroma and sweetness than perhaps any other currants grown. Then, again, commencing from the top of the Gulf of Corinth, southward all along the sea-coast of the Morea, right down to Calamata, in Messenia, the quality gradually deteriorates ; thus Corinth, Fostizza, and Patras, all within the gulf, producing the first quality, then Gastouni and Pirgos, in Elis ; after this, Filiatra and Gargaliano, in Trifyllia, and finally the produce of Pylia and Messenia. To a connoisseur there is a marked difference in the average quality of these various grades ; the market value confirms this. Whereas Gulf, Vostizza, or Patras may be worth 25s. per hundred- weight, Calamata or Pylos would not fetch over 15*. or 16*. per hundred- weight, the redeeming point for the grower being that in the southern districts the vines are more prolific, frequently doubling the production of other vineyards. The best results, as mentioned above, are generally obtained at the foot of the hills ; but this is not always the case. The great point is that no trees of any kind be planted in a vineyard j that it should get plenty of sun, and that the air should circulate freely in it. Some- times during its infancy a vineyard is planted with tomatoes, melons, and such like ; but this is strongly deprecated by all good cultivators as tending to weaken the soil, and if planted at all, it should be done sparsely. Planting and cultivation. — Cuttings which have been buried since January are planted out in March, if the soil is dry enough, at a dis- tance of about 4 feet from each other, and should commence bearing in the third or fourth year, but the seventh or eighth is reached before full bearing. I have seen plants over 100 years old, but they naturally produce very little ; if carefully attended to, a vineyard should continue to be fruitful up to the fiftieth year, though the system of u ring-cut' ting n or making an incision all round the stem or principal branched 918 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. has tended to weaken the plants, and in poor soils tkey have to be re- newed every thirty or forty years. The incision is made after the fruit has set, to keep the sap up and produce a larger berry, or what is known in commerce as a bold fruit," and as this is in vogue in most consuming markets, by far the greater portion of the crop is thus treated, the result being that the keeping properties of the fruit are sacrificed to the fashion of trade. Irrigation. — There is no system of artificial irrigation, but if the winter has been a dry one every means are resorted to to try and irrigate as best one can. Yield. — The yield, value, and cost of the crop per acre varies according to the soil, cultivation, and other circumstances. The wages of laborers are an important item 5 as a rule they are much lower in the islands than on the main-land ; here 50 cents per diem is considered high, whereas in the Morea it sometimes exceeds 75 cents and even $1 per diem. A good average in this island is 260 pounds net fruit per uaxinari,"or 2,OS3J pounds per acre, since 8J " axinarias" form an acre ; the average value of late years has been $62.40 per acre ; the cost of the crop as far as cultivation goes, from beginning to end, including sulphuring (about 80 pounds per acre being under ordinary circumstances consumed), is $22 per acre. The cost of a good vineyard would be about $450 per acre. This island's annual yield of currants is now, on an average, nearly 7,000 tons, the acreage under cultivation being over 10,000 acres, but this is going on increasing, as many fine olive groves are being rooted up to make room for the currant plant. I hope I may prove a false prophet, but this tendency to trust all one's eggs in one basket, I fear, will in the end prove disastrous to the interests of this beautiful island, where the olive flourishes, and the produce can be collected without much expense, and showing a value, one year with another, of over $300,000, and this whilst large tracts of virgin soil in the Morea are annually being brought under cultivation, threatening before very long to bring the total production of currants in excess of the requirements of the world, especially if the condition of the vine- yards in France improves since, owing to the ravages of the phylloxera in that country, some 30,000 tons of dried currants have in recent years been annually imported direct, or via other countries, for wine-making purposes. The annual total production of currants of late has exceeded 120,000 tons — indeed, had not rain damaged a considerable portion of this last year's crop the yield would have been over 130,000 tons — and the pro- duction could be increased to an almost unlimited extent should an unforeseen demand require it. The old English firm of Barff & Co., established in this trade since the early part of this century, gives a table showing the production and distribution of the whole currant crop from 1820 to 1883, of which I inclose a copy, FRUIT CULTURE IN ZANTE. 919 WINE GRAPES. Besides the "currant" grape, there are probably sixty or seventy varieties of the grape grown in this island, of which only some seven or eight are cultivated for making wine, the remainder being for eating pur- poses ; amongst the latter, one occasionally meets with a very luscious black American grape (the Susquehanna, 1 believe), known here as the " Isabella," in flavor something between a strawberry and a raspberry ; a peculiar feature about it is, that the " oidium," or mildew disease, has no effect upon it, and consequently sulphuring is dispensed with, although often grown in the midst of a vineyard of other grapes subject to the disease; the conclusion is that its resistance is owing to its belonging to a much younger stock, and is consequently hardier. The vineyards producing the best wines are mostly on hill-side, with sunny aspect, or on light shallow and rather stony soil. I have heard of grapes grown in a soil entirely of sand, near the sea, producing excel- lent wine, though the yield is small. A very superior quality ftf both white and red wine is made here, resembling the best full-bodied Sicil- ian, and in the cellars of careful viticulturists a capital imitation of Sherry, and even Port, is to be occasionally met with. Mode of cultivation. — The cultivation of both the currant and wine grape is very similar to the French method, only that the system of low cultivation prevails, no plant exceeding 4 feet in height; only eating grapes, especially winter species, are trailed up. Owing to the difference of climate the various processes are somewhat earlier in these latitudes than in France, and the currant has the atten- tion of the grower before the other vines. The fruit of the former is ready the latter part of July or beginning of August, when the bunches are gathered and laid out on carefully prepared drying grounds which have been previously besmeared with a coating of cow's dung liquified in water, or in wooden trays, and remain exposed for eight, ten, or more days, according to the power of the sun's rays. They are then cleared by a light twig-broom from the stalks, heaped together for about twenty- four hours, and finally passed through a winnowing machine, and are then ready for market. The vintage of the wine grape commences the latter part of Septem- ber. If an extra sweet wine is required the grapes are exposed to the sun for three or four days after being gathered, before they are pressed out. ORANGES AND LEMONS. There are many varieties of both, including the egg-shaped, the blood, the mandarin or tangerine orange, and splendid lemons, some without pips, the bergamot, etc.; in fact, I should say that they are as tine as those of anj country. Trees begin to bear fairly well after the sixth or seventh year, and may remain fruitful upwards of one hundred years- Much depends upon the soil and care bestowed upon them/ They are reared from seedlings, grafts, and buddings, 156A 34 920 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Budding is preferred to grafting. Another method pursued here is to cut a healthy, smooth branch of about 1J inches in diameter into lengths of about J foot ; they are then buried in the ground in January at a depth of rather over a foot, and in the following April are planted out, slightly inclining, leaving only an inch or so above the surface. Another plan is clasping a pot or box round a young branch of a tree, keeping it well filled with earth, and after the third year, when it will have formed strong roots, severing it from the parent stem, and planting it in January or February. As a rule the trees here have not been troubled with any serious malady. Although in some parts of Greece, notably in Poros, whole orchards have gradually dried up, no remedy has so far been discovered. The trees are planted 15 to 18 feet apart. Here the orchards succeed best in a sheltered part of the plain or valley, at some distance from the sea ; the best results are on a light, sandy soil, though on some rich boggy soil I have seen some marvelous specimens of both orange and lemon. The best orchards, as a rule, are at least a mile away from the sea. In very hot weather the trees are irrigated at night from wells or cis- terns, but there is no regular system in use, and in certain localities it is not necessary. The ground is dug thrice a year, in March, May, and October. Very little pruning is required beyond keeping the trees in good shape, and free from dead twigs or branches. Manure is laid on every two or three years if the soil is poor. No crops are grown under the trees in properly cultivated orchards, and only the peach tree is in some orchards planted, as it. does not last many years, and the soil is not weakened by it. A first-class orchard yields about $400 per acre annually, expenses being about $35, including manure. OLIVES. There are two varieties here, the indigenous and a variety introduced from Corone, in Messenia; the latter is the most prolific. Both bear a small, greenish -black fruit. Process of cultivation much the same as the orange tree. The ground is plowed regularly twice a year, in March and December, and every fourth year during the summer manure is sown, resulting in a crop of hay in the following spring. The Queen olive is not produced here. The trees come into full bearing after the twentieth 5~ear. There are fruitful trees several centuries old. The average annual yield per acre of mature trees is 33 gallons of liquid oil ; 325 pounds' weight of olives yield 4 gallons of oil ; much depends upon the quality of the soil and the season. The trees are planted about 20 to 24 feet apart, Ojlives intended for FRUIT CULTURE IN ZANTE. 921 pickling, are picked when they are barely ripe, but these are few and only for local wants. The olives for oil-making are picked, or rather knocked, off the trees when ripe. The process of preparing them for table use is simply salt- ing them, putting them in oil or vinegar ; in the latter case they are generally slit on the sides. The process for extracting oil is very prim- itive. The olives are generally crushed between millstones, the upper stone being turned by a horse. Another process is to put the olives between goat-hair sacks, throw boiling water over them, and then press them as one would grapes. Such oil is never good. The peasantry fre- quently keep a portion of their crops of olives for a couple of years with- out crushing them. To do this they are thoroughly sprinkled with salt, and simply left in a corner of their room. It is said that they do not lose either in weight or liquid, but such oil when extracted is liable to be rancid. The process of knocking off the fruit with sticks is much to be deprecated, since many fine shoots are thus destroyed. Valley, hill-side, or table-land are all adapted to olive trees. Much depends on the nature of the soil. A hard clay is bad. The best oil is from trees grown on a stony hill-side, but the yield is small. There is no system of artificial irrigation, but copious rain-falls in winter are indispensable to insure a good crop ; even then the olive seldom bears a full one except every second year. Orchards come right down to the sea-coast. The olive requires plenty of air, and a high wind is indispensable to insure the proper setting of the fruit. Close, sultry weather during the flowering prevents the flower from falling, and a worm is then generated. Of late years many orchards have been attacked by blight, which causes much of the fruit to drop off when approaching maturity. The cause is unknown, and on remedy found so far to combat it. The cost of cultivation is not over $12 to $14 per acre, and $6 to $8 more for collecting the fruit, cost of manure not included. As a rule the proprietor of an orchard is satisfied with the benefit derived from the manure, and the person who provides it has the hay in return. No meteorological observations are taken here. I am indebted to Mr. W. G. Foster, superintendent of the Eastern Telegraph Company, for the inclosed table showing the temperature during the summers of 1882 and 1883. FIGS. No figs of commerce are grown here. Four or five varieties are pro- duced in abundance, both green and black, but they are eaten fresh, the large orchards bearing fruit after the middle of May and all June. A smaller and sweeter fig ripens in August and September, but these are not grown in orchards, only a tree here and there in gardens. The cultivation resembles that of the orange and lemon, only that less attention is bestowed on the orchards, and crops of beans and such 922 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. like are frequently grown under the trees. If tigs are grown on a rich soil they are liable to suffer from worm disease. No figs are dried in this island; an attempt was once made, but it did not succeed. The only part of Greece where figs are cured is at Cala- mata, in Messenia, but they are very inferior to the Smyrna fig ; they are principally exported to Southern Kussia or to Trieste, and thence for- warded to the interior of Germany, where the refuse lots are baked or burnt and then ground and used as a substitute for coffee. A. L. CROWE, Consular Agent. UNITED STATES CONSULAR AGENCY, , Zante, March 15, 1884. FRUIT CULTURE IN THE ALPS MARITIME. REPORT BY CONSUL WILSON, OF NICE. [Republished from Consular Reports No. 47.] The Alps, projected southwards from Lake Geneva, come to an abrupt termination at the Mediterranean Sea, in the department of the Alps Maritime. On the one side high mountains, on the other deep water. The mountains are seamed with small rivers, and their banks and the sea-coast proper are fringed with narrow valleys, which, with the some- times sloping hill-sides, are the only agricultural lands in the region. These mountains shelter the valleys from the cold north winds of the Alps, while the sea tempers the sultry south winds of the Great Sahara, producing a soft and equable climate, which the fashionable world has declared to be the most delicious in all Europe. In the public gardens, and in many private ones, too, the palm trees, the cocoa, the cacti, and the aloe flourish. Flowers bloom in banks of loveliness of color and fragrance on either side of the highways ; hedges of rose trees and geraniums guard the orchards of orange and lemon trees, which, bearing both fruit and blossom, make for them a ceaseless round of seed time and harvest, while violets and jessamine are as plenty as dog daisies on a village common. I saw the other day a h%ap of violets which had just been brought to the mill and were on the floor, a pile 20 feet across. They were to be ground up and their fragrance transmitted into the essences and pomades of commerce. I visited this winter the gardens of the enthusiastic amateur, Monsieur Doquin, at Cannes, covering near 20 acres. They were filled with all sorts of tropical fruits, growing at all seasons in the open air. He has no plant under glass, yet on my way home I saw plainly, in the near neighborhood, the snow-covered mountains. This, with the fact that Nice is in about the same latitude as Portland, Me., was to me a matter of astonishment, and would afford thought and study for the meteor- ologist. FRUIT CULTURE IN THE ALPS MAJRITIME. CLIMATE. 923 During the thirty years from 1840 to 1878, inclusive, the wind blew at Nice as follows : Days. Feeble or moderate 7, 373 More or less strong t 2( 397 Calm 608 Averages and extremes of temperature at Nice during thirty years, from 1849 to 1878 (ther- mometer centigrade). Temperature daring the day. Month. Daily average. Highest tem- perature. Lowest tem- perature. Number of times over 30°. Day. Year. Day. Tear. December 0 11.69 1L19 12.36 14.33 17.74 o 18.5 19.2 18.9 •J1.4 27 8 1872 1855 1866 1871 1871 1870 1877 1865 1869 1853 1870 1849 0 1.1 3.0 3.2 5.2 7.0 8.7 17.4 20.7 19.2 17.2 11.0 4.2 1867 1862 1854 1860 1849 1861 1855 1851 1857 1852 1869 1851 rubruarv - .... M in h ' April M-'v • 21.83 24.53 27.47 26.90 23.83 19.85 14.86 29.6 31.6 33.7 33.2 33.9 31.2 26.7 Jii'U' 15 144 99 6 1 Jiilv September . ... October .November . . . • Month. Temperature during the night. Daily average. Highest tem- perature. Lowest tem- perature. Number of times below zero. Night. Tear. Night. Year. December ... 0 5.15 4.59 5.13 6.52 9.50 13.32 17.24 18.73 18.97 1«.59 12.79 7.96 o 14.8 15.5 13.5 13.3 17.8 21.3 25.0 26.2 26.0 22.6 18.9 18.0 1852 1854 1867 1871 1865 1852 1868 1859 1859 1855 1873 1859 0 —2.7 —3.0 —3. 5 —0.6 +2.9 +4.0 + 6.5 15.0 12.3 10.4 2.6 — L5 1870 1862 1861 1860 1869 1870 1871 1878 1876 1876 1869 1858 28 34 27 5 January February ' March /. April ££".: June Jnlv August September November 1 The differences between these extremes are as follows : Between the annual averages, 31°. 60 • between the greatest extremes in ODO year, 1859, 35°.5 ; between the least in one year 27°.0, 1850 ; between greatest extremes in the 30 years, 37°.2 ; highest 33°.7, July 10, 1865 ; lowest 3°.5, February 8, 1864. The average number of rainy days in Nice in each year is 64.4. The most rainy year, 1853, gave 103; the least, 1871, 45 days. This average divides itself among the seasons thus: Winter, 16.1 j spring, 19 j summer, 9.3; autumn 19.8. 9:24 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. The average rain-fall for ten years (1870~'T9) was 79(Unnn. The maxi- mum (I87i») was 1,383.9"""; the minimum, 4f>L'.i>uim (1875). The most, frequent rains come from the east ami the southwest, but the hardest rains come from the northeast and the south. Scarcely any rain comes from the north or northwest. SOIL AND AGRICULTURE. The country has generally a gravelly limestone soil. Agriculture is difficult and comparatively insignificant. The farmer has a continuous struggle with nature for a living : but then it is not what we have that makes ns happy, but what we need, and happily for him, his needs are small. The ground is solid and difficult to dig. It lies usually or frequently in narrow terraces on the mountain-side, each one supported by the rough stones piled up perpendicularly and forming the lower side of the terrace, giving to the whole affair the appearance of an extensive stair-case, up which a giant might climb the mountain. The tread of the steps is the space devoted to agriculture. True, they cultivate the valley below, but it is also divided into small patches, surrounded by high stone walls, with espaliers (trellises) covered with roses, geraniums, etc., and sometimes peaches or grapes. In all this there is small chance for a plow, first, from the small and irregular shapes, and second, from the groves and trees of lemons, oranges, olives, and figs, which occupy the ground, and spread their roots in every direction. The most of the work of turning up the earth preparatory to planting must be done with the spade. It is hard labor, and shows its effects in the dwarfed and early-bowed forms and the brown and grizzled faces one sees in the market places. On the mountains and high up their sides one can find numberless opportunities for, and illustrations of, geology, mineralogy, and some- times archaeology, but not of agriculture. Rocks and stones here abound, but, except for the ass and goat, there is scarcely enough vege- tation to support animal life. The culture of flowers is fast becoming the more serious and remu- nerative occupation. They are used for the essences and pomades of commerce. Extensive establishments for these purposes fcbound throughout the neighborhood. The principal food of the peasant is the/Arc demarais, a sort of beau (frequently made with other vegetables into soup), vegetables dressed into salad, and black bread made of flour compounded of wheat and rye, or wheat and oats. Their drink is the common wine of the country. THE OLIVE AND ITS OIL. The olive tree is of the highest antiquity. It appears on the earliest page of written history in the leaf which the dove brought to Noah in the ark as evidence of the receding waters. FRUIT CULTURE IN THE ALPS MARITIME. 925 It held the highest rank in the ancient mythology. -Minerva taught tlio Athenians its uses. The peoples of antiquity held it in great respect, and used its oil in their various religious ceremonies.. It wan at once the .emblem of holiness and peace. The Romans refused to burn the wood, even on their altars. The olive was brought from Egypt to Greece, and from thence spread over the countries where it is now grown. It flourishes best in the basin of the Mediterranean Sea, between 35° and 43° north latitude, though this, as I have stated, will, owing to the difference of temperature on the same parallel, be but an uncertain guide in the United States. The oil produced on the African shore of the Mediterranean is inferior to that of the north shore. Some of the islands of the Grecian Archipelago and the Adriatic pro- duce fine oil, but the center, both for quantity and quality, so far at least as concerns commerce, is at Nice and the surrounding country. From St. Tropez to Savone generally, but chiefly from the Var to the Eoya, from Cannes to Vintemille, the best oil is produced. Here the trees have been indigenous since before the Christian era, and here they grow to the largest size and the greatest age. One at Beaulieu, in full vigor and bearing, is 22 feet in circumference and is supposed to be 700 or more years old. The slower the fruit ripens the better oil it makes, but as it must be fully ripe and entirely free from blemish to make the choicest oil, and as it requires two years to come to perfection (the crop is only biennial), one can easily comprehend the dangers of climate, season, malady, and accident which must be avoided and the difficulties which must be over- come in order to obtain final success. To accomplish this with a plant so tender requires a climate and sit- uation of peculiar adaptation, and unless that is secured any attempt at its cultivation will be fruitless. The fruit freezes at 23° Fahrenheit and the tree at 16°. Once frozen, no remedy exists; the tree is de- stroyed and must be cut down. It speaks volumes for the climate of this region to say that the olive trees have here grown successfully for the centuries I have indicated. If the weather be too warm and the land too rich the fruit ripens too fast and its good taste is gone. If, on the other hand, it should become too cold, fruit and tree are both destroyed. Possibly I can do no bet- ter than answer the question propounded in the circular to which this is a response. VARIETIES OF OLIVE TREES. What varieties of trees produce the best results and at what age f There are sixteen or seventeen different kinds, each with its botanical name, which have been grown in this region, but nearly all as exotics. The tree in common use is the European olive, and all the information given concerns this. It gives the best oil. 926 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. FRUIT -BEARING AGE. The tree begins to bear trait at ten years of age, but it does not coine to maturity until from thirty to fifty years. For the olives of commerce — that is, to eat, either fresh or pickled — the young tree produces the best result ; the mature trees produce the best oil. MODES OF PLANTING AND CULTIVATION. What is the process of planting and cultivation ? The reproduction of the olive tree may be accomplished by all the modes known for trees. The best mode — planting the seed or pit — is practiced here the least. The people prefer plan ting the sprouts which come up from the roots of the tree, or which may be artificially made by bending a twig and covering it with earth until it has taken root. At the age of two years this stock may be grafted, or the operation is more like that of " budding." The graft is cut all on one side and introduced under the bark, then bound up in moist earth and allowed to grow. The stock above the graft is cut off. The earth around and between the trees is tilled each year, and a crop, sometimes of wheat or beans alternately, planted in the spring and gathered in the autumn. The earth is manured every two years and the trees are pruned every four years. THE BEST TREES. What variety of tree produces the best olives of commerce ? Are they the selected fruit of the common olive, or a superior variety grown from an improved tree? It is the same tree and the same fruit for oil as for commerce. But the best olives for commerce grow on the young trees; they are larger and plumper, and by selecting the fruit they obtain the finest quality, which are then preserved for commerce. There is a species grown at Nice for which is claimed a superiority of taste and fragrance. It is distinguished by a small black spot on the blossom end of the fruit. These olives are eaten in the country when ripe, are semi-dried and slightly seasoned with salt. ^ TIME OF FRUIT GATHERING. At what age do the trees come to full bearing, and how long do they remain fruitful? The trees begin to bear at ten years of age, but they do not reach their full capability or maturity until from thirty to fifty years. They continue fruitful for two and a half or three centuries. This is for grafted fruit. The wild olive lives and bears until twice that age. In Provence and other countries not so well adapted to them, they commence earlier and also die earlier. The trees are smaller and the fruit can be picked FRUIT CULTURE IN THE ALPS MARITIME. 927 by band. There the crop is annual, the harvest being in November and December, while in Nice and surrounding country the harvest is biennial. Here the blossom or flower comes in April or May, and the first fruit, consisting of the smaller and inferior, is gathered in Novem- ber and December, the better in January and February and March, while the best (for oil) is the last, in April and May. It produces the best oil when it ripens slowly, and in some exceptionally good years the harvest is continued into June and even July. The tree then recuper- ates until the following spring, when it flowers again. An olive tree, even here, would bear a crop each year if so permitted, but the "whip- ping'' necessary to gather in the fruit destroys the blossoms, which do not come again until the next spring. HOW THE TREES ARE PLANTED. At what distance apart are the trees planted ; how many to the acre t From 10 to 15 yards each way. The larger trees require larger space and the larger the space allowed the larger the trees produced. The trees need sun and air. and if crowded it will be to their detriment. This would permit, if I have figured aright, forty to fifty trees to 1 acre. But they do not calculate by the acre, for the trees are planted on the hill -side, usually on made terraces impossible to plow, cultivated with the spade, and it is difficult to get an acre of olive trees together. In poorer soil and on the hill-side the trees may be a lesser distance apart, even reducing it 6 to 8 yards. OLIVE YIELD. What is the average yield of mature trees in fruit; in oil ; and how much or in what proportion does the fruit produce the oil I The difference between olive trees in their product is as great as be- tween apple trees. But the average production, per tree, biennially, may be stated thus : In fruit, from 60 to 120 liters ; in oil, from 8 to 12 kilograms, or 12 to 18 liters. The production of oil from the fruit is about as one to five ; i. e., some 5 liters of the best olives will make 1 liter of oil ; though in many cases it takes 7 liters of olives to make 1 liter of oil. PICKLED OLIVES. The prepared olives of commerce come from Marseilles and farther around the coast. They are outside my district, and my information might not be reliable, therefore, I shall not attempt it. Olives for the table at Nice are usually eaten ripe and fresh. Sometimes they may be pickled green and preserved in salt or brine, but this is all for the local use and does not enter into commerce. OLIVES FOR OIL. When and how are they picked, and wh;it is the process of extract- ing the oil ? 928 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. I have already indicated that the harvest was only biennial, that it commenced in November and lasted until May, or even (as in this year) until June. The fruit is gathered when ripe, or, what is better, just be- fore it comes fully so. When ripe it is apt to become damaged by de- cay and by attracting bad tastes. For these reasons it can not be al- lowed to remain on the tree until it falls from its ripeness. The tree is too slight and frail to be climbed, and so a sheet being spread on the ground to receive the fruit, it is whipped off with long switches. The harvest is divided into three periods, of about two months each. The first, November and December, produces the oil ordinaire. This is greenish in color. It is used as food by the common people, while the inferior quality may be used for lubricating purposes. The second period, January and February, produces oil fine, straw color, and is the oil of commerce. The third period lasts from March to the close and produces the oil sur fine or sur choix, which is the very best, with only a tinge of yellow in it. MANUFACTURE OF THE OIL. * The olives gathered in either of these periods are taken to the mill where they are ground to pulp ; and then put under the press by which the oil is extracted and the fruit and seed .left a dry mass. r The mill consists of a stone about the size and shape of the common millstone, but stood on edge, is made to thus revolve on its axis around a given center by means of a long wooden arm operated by horse or man power, its weight being on its perimeter, inside a large tub of stone (mason work) with a stone bottom. Into this tub the olives are thrown and the revolving stone crushes them in its path. Much care and experience is required for all these operations. The olives must be in proper condition ; they must have no bruises or de- cayed places, no unnatural or improper taint or taste; the weight of the millstone must be such as that the fruit shall be macerated but the stone or pit not broken, for the kernel gives the oil a bitter taste. The ground pulp is put into a sort of sack or open-work basket, and our or five of these are placed under the press. The oil thus extracted s the best quality for that period. Afterwards a second quality is ob- tained by soaking the residuum with hot water. The opera tionoT grind- ing and pressing may follow immediately the gathering, but if the fruit is dry and in good order it will keep for eight or ten days if spread out in a dry place to a depth of 2 or 3 inches, and not disturbed. HOW BEST RESULTS ARE OBTAINED. i Are best results obtained on valley, hillside, or table-land ? On hillside. Not only is the fruit better and more abundant, but it makes finer oil. FRUIT CULTURE IN THE ALPS MARITIME. 929 SUITABLE SOIL. What character of soil is best adapted to olive trees ? A limestODe soil ; marl and clay or any soil wet and cold are not good. It will flourish in almost any kind of soil light and dry. A light lime- stone, gravelly soil is its delight. IRRIGATION. None is needed here for the olive. SITUATION OF ORCHARDS. How near to the coast are the olive orchards ? If on the plain, half a mile distant; if on the hillside and protected from the cold winds, they grow and flourish within 20 yards of the sea DISEASES. To what maladies are the olives subject ! The principal ones are the cairon, a small worm (Musca oleai), and the morphea, an almost imperceptible bug (Cirnea barbanus). The slow ripening indispensable to the production of the best fruit causes sometimes a fermentation, by which is engendered the small worm, cairon. It attacks only the fruit, and gives a bad taste. Its effect is felt most seriously in the next harvest, and thus is produced the succession of good and bad harvests. The morphia, on the other hand, attacks the tree, and its evil effects are greater, paralyzing the vegetation, rendering the tree fruitless, and frequently causing its death. It flourishes in damp seasons and places, and propagates itself with an astonishing rapidity. It operates by spinning or weaving a sort of web, resembling in some degree that of a spider. This, after a short time, becomes black and dry and resolves itself into a powder which covers the leaves, flowers, and fruit ; this powder is corrosive in its effect, and deadens all with which it comes in contact. The insect flourishes on the olive, but the dust spreads and settles on everything ; so a country thus infested presents the appear- ance of a field of death, the valley of the legendary upas tree. No cure has yet been employed with success. It runs its course, and of the trees the fittest only survive. COSTS AND PROFITS. The yield, the proceeds, and profit, and the cost of cultivation. I have given the yield per tree per crop biennial : In fruit, 60 to 120 liters ; in oil, 12 to 18 liters or 8 to 12 kilograms. In average years, and at average prices, the fruit of a single tree will sell at the foot of the tree for, say, 8 francs ; if rendered into oil it will bring, say, from 10 to 15 francs. According to quality the prices are, 930 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. of olives, from 3.50 to 5 francs for 20 liters (a double decaliter) ; of oil, from I to 2.50 francs per liter. The average product of one tree, then, will be, biennially, in fruit, from 8 to 10 francs j in oil, from 10 to 15 francs. The cost of cultivation is slight ; manure every two years and prun- ing every four. The cost of harvesting is also slight ; whip oft' the olives and gather them up. If this could be done and completed in one opera- tion the cost would be much reduced. But the whole cost may be esti- mated at from 4 to 5 francs per tree biennially, 2 to 2J francs annually. This applied to 40 or 50 trees will make the cost at from 80 to 100 francs per acre. Stretched out, as it is, over a long period of time, it cannot all be done by the peasant with his regular force, and is not, as in our American harvests, forced into a few weeks, requiring a large increase of help, and, consequently, of expense. So the profit on each tree may be estimated at 4 to 8 francs, or possibly 10, each two years. This would give from $20 to $40 per acre per year. NO MORE OLIVE-TREE PLANTING. I am informed, however, that the cultivation of olives is falling into desuetude. Flowers pay better than fruit. Olive trees are not being cut down or destroyed for the purpose of changing, but when destroyed they are not again planted. The planting of olives here is to be likened to plant- ing forest trees in the United States ; and though by every method of figuring it would pay, yet the benefits are postponed for so long time that no one does it. This is all made apparent when one considers that the olive does not arrive at maturity for thirty to fifty years, a longer period than the average life of the man who plants it, and that it does not even com- mence bearing until ten years- old. So the planting of an olive tree is, or may be, regarded as work done for posterity. ORANGES AND LEMONS. The orange flourishes better at Nice than at Meutone, but it is the reverse with the lemon. Men tone is slightly warmer and mtore shel- tered. VARIETIES AND VALUE. At what age do they come into fall bearing and how long do they remain fruitful I There are the sweet and the sour or bitter oranges. They cultivate fourteen different varieties— Le Portugal or Bergamottc, Le Chinois, Le Mandarin. The lemon has also its varieties. The sweet orange and the mandarin are the most esteemed and the most cultivated. They furnish the fruits for the market and for com- merce. FRUIT CULTLRK IN THE ALPS MARITIME. 931 The bitter orange is cultivated only for its seed, tbe essence, and the flower. It is not eaten. The tree begins to bear fruit in two or three years after the grafting, but it does not arrive at full maturity until ten years of ago. They last for two or three hundred' years. PROPAGATION. Are the trees seedlings, grafted, or budded ! All three practices prevail. The bitter orange is grown from the seed, and when it attains the thickness of 1 inch and the height of 5 or (> feet it is grafted or budded with the sweet orange of whatever variety desired. The same process in effect is pursued with the lemon trees. MALADIES. Frost, or freezing, is hardly to be called a malady, but it is equally fatal, and the tree requires care and protection against it. The principal malady attacking the trees here is that called La Mousse. It seems to be a blight, but whether fungus or not I can not say. It would seem to be produced (I don't know which is cause and which effect) by a superabundance of water in the trunk of the tree under the bark. The symptoms are that the tree withers and becomes yellow, the fruit, flowers, and leaves fall, and all begin to decay and rot. The disease seems to be contagious or infectious. There appears to be no cure, and the only course to save the trees or gardens adjacent seeras to be the immediate destruction of the diseased trees. HOW PLANTED. At what distance are the trees planted ? Oranges about 5 meters, lemons 3 meters. SITUATION OF ORCHARDS. Are orchards inland or on the sea-coast, hill-side, valley, or upland f Protected from the cold, the orange tree will grow in any of these sit- uations, but that preferable is the valley, where it can be irrigated when necessary. The lemon tree prefers a dry soil, and not having absolute need of irrigation, will flourish on the hill-side. But as both these trees love the warmth, they can not be here transplanted far from the sea. They (especially the lemon) are to be found with the greatest success on an espalier, or trellis, on the protected side of the high stone walls which are the common garden-fence in this country. How near to the sea-shore are the orchards f Within 100 meters for the oranges and even less for the lemons. IRRIGATION. Irrigation is requisite for the orange in this country. I have given the rain-fall (maximum fall) in ten years, 1870-79, 1,384 932 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. minimum, 453 millimeters. Average for ten years (1870-'79), 796 milli- meters, divided by seasons thus : Season. Average. Maximun i. Minim un: i. Winter Millimeters. 193 Millimeters. 409 Year. 1873 Millimeters. 33 Year. 1878 215 460 1879 81 1871 Summer 80 231 1870 3 1873 308 484 1872 168 1875 Total 796 It will thus be perceived that the rain-fall may be very slight during the summer, so slight that without aid from irrigation the entire crop, and possibly the orchards, would or might be so parched as to be de- stroyed. The town of Cannes led the way in procuring a system of artifical supply of water. It brings the water of the Soigne in a canal from St. Cezaide, a distance of 25 miles. Nice has just completed a similar system by means of which waters are brought, down through Quartier de Cinsiez, a distance of 10 or 15 miles, and at a height of several hun- dred feet. The town of Grasse is agitating the same subject, and soon the val- leys along this coast will all be indulging themselves in the luxurious enjoyment of a plentiful supply of pure water fresh from the mountain springs. HOW THE TREES ARE PLANTED. Is the ground between the trees cultivated ? It is plowed or spaded and manured, but they do not grow anything except some flowers, usually violets. PRUNING. This is done once each year, giving the tree the form of a parasol, that it may have sun and air and to facilitate the gathering of the fruit. YIELD AND COST OF CULTIVATION. i Give the yield, proceeds, and cost of cultivation f The gathering or harvest of the fruit is biennial, that is, if the drought, cold, or some malady does not interfere. The product of the lemon consists here solely of the fruit, whilst in other places the flowers are a source ot revenue. The orange is different. It may be denominated previous. Its branches, its leaves, its flowers, its fruit, and even the skin of the fruit, which would be otherwise valueless, all these form parts of the regular harvest, while the wood o? the tree is in great request as making the finest marquetry. FRUIT CULTURE IN THE ALPS MARITIME. 933 The proceeds are somewhat difficult to calculate. A good harvest will produce a minimum of 10 francs per tree ; many of them will pro- duce 50 francs each. This is for fruit alone. Leaves and flowers may bring this up to 15 or 1G francs per tree. The trees begin to produce at ten years of age ; their best product is during their growth, until their maturity, say to forty or fifty years. The cost may be approximated as follows : The grafted stock as sold by the nurserymen, original cost, each, 1.25 francs. Annual cost: Francs. Irrigation, each 50 Cultivation and manure. 50 Pruning and plowing 50 Total 1.50 FIGS. Indicate the kinds of trees producing the figs of commerce. Among the 67 species of figs which can be counted at Kice, they cul- tivate the following: ISAbicou and La Cottignane blanche. These are to be eaten fresh about the last of June. Succeeding them in point of time are the Bernissou noir, Bernissou blanc, LaBellone, and Le Col de Dame, to be eaten dried. To be eaten dried — Ly Bellone (can be eaten either dried or fresh), La Sarrasine noire, La Rollandine blanche. The latter is the fig of Calabre. • MODE OF CULTIVATION. Production and process of cultivation. The fig tree grows from a slip or cutting. They are planted at about 6 meters distance; the warmer and more sheltered the better. Though they will grow in colder climates, yet their tendency is to stunted growth and a return to a savage state. The rain suffices for them without irrigation. The earth should be dug and manured here each year and the tree trimmed. The cost here is about 40 francs per hundred trees. The production in the best years at good prices is about equivalent to 30 or 40 francs per tree. PROCESS OF DRYING AND CURING THE FIG. The harvest of some kinds may commence in June or July and it will last until October and November. The ripe fruit is placed on a trellis or basket work (1J to 2 by 2 to 3 meters) in a thin layer and exposed to the sun for ten or twelve days. They are then removed to a dry place under cover, and by keeping ;them stirred they will not damage for a long time, when at one's leisure 934 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. he can put them in the basket, case, or hoop, and, decorated with peach or laurel leaves, they are pressed in the form in which they are known to commerce over the world. RAISINS. None are raised or prepared in this district. There are vineyards, but not for raisins. They are situated on the hill or mountain sides. The fruit is sold in the markets to be eaten fresh, though they keep them fresh for a long time. These grapes are sweet and luscious to the taste. They are thus strongly impressed upon my recollection. Those not used thus are made into wine, of which that from Bellet has ac- quired a local celebrity. This trade is not sufficiently extensive in comparison with other parts of France to justify a description. THOMAS WILSON, Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE, Nice, September 13, 1884. THE MANGOSTEEN. REPORT BY OOMSUL STUDER, OF SINGAPORE. [Republished from Consular Reports, No. 10.] TANNIC QUALITIES. For the benefit of such among our public as are engaged in the manu- facture of leather, and who may take an interest in what I am about to state, I have the honor to inform the Department that in the local paper, the Daily Times, of the 3d instant, appeared a very interesting as well as important article (taken from a Java paper), of which the follow- ing is a true copy : Mr. G-. Naeff, at Lochun, has made a comparative examination of rnangosteen shells and oak bark to determine the value of the former as tanning material in leather making. It appeared therefrom that the mangosteen shells contain one-sixth more tannin than oak bark, and that the value of the f >rmer may, therefore, be set at about 7£ guilders per 100 kilograms. I think it was well that this comparison between mangosteen shells and oak bark was made. I regard this new discovery as very important, in view of the fact that many of our valuable " hard- wood forests" in the Eastern and Middle and, in a great measure, our Western States, have either entirely disappeared or become denuded of oak trees, and this, too, near or around leather manufacturing districts. True, many substitutes for oak bark, such as hemlock, gambler, and other materials, have been resorted to, but none of these, I believe, are able to take the FRUIT CULTURE IN THE ALPS MARITIME. 935 place of oak bark, ami " oak- tanned leather » still commands the highest price in the market. I do not know the present prices of oak bark in the United States — whether 100 kilograms in a broken state ready to be ground, and bought where grown, would be^dear at 7J guilders ($3) ; but if the price of it should be the same as of mangosteen shells bought out here for the same price, the prices of both the same there and here—- the mangosteen shells having one-sixth more tannic properties would be more valuable — the difference would more than pay for the freight, besides proving a valuable article of freight for our ships, being easily shipped, and, owing to the hardness of the shell, not liable to spoil or to suffer from sea- water, except after long submersion. That mangosteen shells contain much tannin and are a very strong astringent I knew long ago. The Malays when they want to check bowel complaints of serious character grate or cut fine the shells, make tea of the same, apd use it with good results. This is well known here. About ten years ago an eminent Austrian naturalist and physician, sent by his government to the Indo-Malayan Archipelago on a scientific tour of exploration, had his attention drawn to the shell of the man- gosteen fruit as a powerful astringent, and its common use among the natives as an antidote against the diseases mentioned. It would seem that after his return to Vienna the imperial family read his report, and noted the medical value of the mangosteen shell, for about six years ago, when cases of Asiatic cholera had occurred in Austria, the Austrian consul here, who was then my near neighbor, was written to by request of Her Majesty the Empress to cause a quantity of mangosteen shells to be procured, and to ship them with dispatch to Vienna, where it was believed they would answer for checking cholera, in case the latter should make progress. To order mangosteen shells from here for the cure of cholera was a mistake ; for no one here over heard that they had been used for that purpose. Still, as a remedy for dysentery, if taken immediately on being attacked, the astringent is very effective. THE MANGOSTEEN FRUITS. The mangosteeu is beyond any doubt the choicest, most refreshing, and wholesome fruit in this part of the world, and is found throughout the whole Indo-Malayan Archipelago, and in New Guinea, say between the twelfth degrees north and south latitudes. Strange to say, it does not thrive well, if at all, in other tropical countries within the same de- grees of latitude. In Siam and in French Cochin China there are large orchards of it ; also on the Malayan peninsula, wherever human habita- tions are found. It is equally at home, and plenty, on the large and small Sunda Islands, in the Moluccas, and a naturalist told me that he found them growing plentifully in the forests of New Guinea. On the peninsula of Malacca, in Sumatra, and Borneo, large groves of them in a wild state can be found, generally near the banks of rivers arid creeks, 15GA 35 936 FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. My opinion is that they were originally planted by Malays who lived there, and abandoned their settlements owing to internecine wars, or to change lands. The Malays are more or less of a nomadic disposition. Their abandoned orchards, indigenous as the mangosteen tree is, took care of themselves like other forest fruit trees, and the seeds of the fruits, dropped here and there by birds and monkeys, rooted easily. The wild mangosteen fruit is just as good as the cultivated, only a little smaller. My experience is that the trees yield fruit, generally very abundantly, about three times in two years, or, to be very safe, four times in three years. In seasons when rain squalls and fine weather alternate regularly, with a slight preponderance for rain, they bear best. The tree, in ground and atmosphere, likes much moisture. If the natives, throughout the maugosteen-producing countries and islands named, should once become aware that they can sell the shell of the fruit, or that it had become an article of export, there would be no great difficulty in securing immense quantities of the same, and, the trade once inaugurated, it is my opinion they might be had for less than $300 per- 100 kilos. The average size of the fruit is about the same as medium-sized apple, while the average thick- ness of a shell is about one-third of an inch. The fact is, there is " more shell than fruit." I firmly believe that the said shells would make first-class li tanning material," that they are well worth a trial in our tanneries, and it is my opinion they might prove a valuable dye- stuff as well. A. J. STUDER, Consul. CONSULATE OF THE UNITED STATES, Singapore, June 14, 1881. CULTIVATION OF TROPICAL FRUITS. SAMOA. With regard to the circular of September 28, inclosing a list of ques- tions about different tropical fruits, I am sorry to say that I can give no information. Oranges and lemons grow wild in Samoa; they are not cultivated at all. There are no figs or olives grown here, W. BLACKLOCK, Vice- Consul. UNITED STATES CONSULATE-GENERAL, Apia, Samoa, December (), 1889. CULTIVATION OP TROPICAL FRUITS IN POLYNESIA. 937 POLYNESIA. HAWAII. The information sought can not be obtained, owing to the fact that no system of cultivation exists in the orange or fig. These fruits grow well in this climate, while the lemon and olive are scarcely known. H. W. SEVERANCE, Consul- General UNITED STATES CONSULATE- GENERAL, Honolulu, December 3, 1889. INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS VOL. I. 1. COTTON TEXTILES IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. CONTINENT OF AFRICA. Page. British Africa: Cape Colony __. 5-7 Sierra Leone 8-10 Egypt ___ 10 Liberia 11 Morocco 11 Portuguese Africa: Cape Verde Islands 12 Maderia 12 St. Paul de Loando 13 Zanzibar. 14 CONTINENT OF AMERICA. British North America: Gray cotton manufactures of Canada . 15,16 British Columbia ___ _. _ _ _ 17-19 Ontario: Fort Erie _ 19 Nova Scotia: Windsor 20,21 Newfoundland: St John's.. __ 22 Quebec: Quebec 22,23 Prince Edward Island 24-27 Mexico : Guayamas 28, 29 Talcahuano 29-31 Central America: Costa Rica _ 31, 32 Guatemala 33, 34 Salvador . 34, 35 South America: Argentine Republic 36-44 1 2 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. Page. South America — Continued. Brazil: Babia _ 44-51 Para 51 Pernambuco 51, 52 Rio Grande do Sul 53-56 British Guiana. 56,57 Dutch Guiana 57 Chili 58 Peru 59 Republic of Colombia: Barranquilla 59-62 Carthagena 62-64 Panama 65-67 Venezuela: LaGuayra 67,68 Puerto Cabello 69-72 West Indies: British West Indies: Antigua — _ _ 73 Anguilla 74 Bahamas 75-77 Bermuda 77 Dominica 78 Jamaica 78-81 Danish West Indies 81,82 French West Indies 83-85 San Domingo 85,86 Spanish West Indies: Cienfuegos 86,87 Santiago 88-95 CONTINENT OF ASIA. British Asia: British India: Calcutta 95-126 Bombay 127-129 Ceylon 129 Hong-Kong 133 China: Chin-Kiang ! 130 Foo-Chow '. 130-133 Ningpo 134-136 Province of Kwang-Tung (Canton) 136-141 Shanghai 141-145 Siam - - — 145,146 Spanish Asia: Philippine Islands 146-152 Turkey in Asia: Palestine _i _- -- 153 Syria.... — 154-159 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. 3 Page. AUSTRALASIA. Fiji _ _ __ 159,160 New Zealand.. 160-162 New South Wales 163-168 CONTINENT OF EUROPE. Austria-Hungary (Trieste) _ 169,170 Denmark. _ 171, 172 Belgium (Antwerp) _. __ 173-176 France: Havre 176 Marseilles ___ _ 176-179 Germany: Hamburg 179-181 Stettin... _ _._ _. 181,182 Holland 183-185 Italy (Rome and all Italy) 185-199 Catania _ 199-202 Florence 202-205 Genoa 206-208 Messina 208-211 Naples... _ 211-218- Palermo _._ 218, 219 Venice 220 Portugal : Azores — 221, 222 Lisbon 223, 224 Spain-. 224-231 Switzerland 232-234 United Kingdom: London . 235 Liverpooll ." ___ __ 235 Leith.- 236 Gibraltar ___. 236 2. FILES IN SPANISH AMERICA. English vs. American files... 243-249 Mexico: LaPaz._ __ 250 Mazatlan 250 Piedras Negras 250 Tuxpan 251 Central America: Nicaragua 251 South America: Argentine Republic 252 Brazil: Bahia. _ __. 253-255 Perrambuco 255, 256 Rio de Janeiro _ 257 Rio Grande do Sul .. 257 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. South America — Continued. Chili: Coquimbo ...'"-'. ~.~-.-I~~~~. I--. — \. 258 Talcahuuuo 259 Dutch Guiana 259 Peru - 260 Republic of Colombia: Barranquilla 261, 262 Colon. 263 Panama 264 Venezuela: LaGuayral 265 Maracaibo 265 Puerto Cabello 266 3. CARPET MANUFACTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. Apprentices and piece-work in France . 277 Employe's, statistics relating to, in — Austria- Hungary 272 France 276 St. Etienne _ __ 280 Germany : Aix-la-Chapelle _ 281 Barmen 1 284 Great Britain : Leeds . 289 Holland 301 Italy: Florence 304 Lombardy 305 Rome __. 305 Turkey in Asia : Asia Minor. _ 308 Sivas 310 Syria 311 Feltings, manufacture of, in Leeds 293-297 Hours of labor in — Austria-Hungary 272 France = 277 St. Etienne 4- 280 Germany: Aix-la-Chapelle __.. _ 281 Gera _ _ 287 Great Britain: Leeds __ 291 Holland _'_ 301 Italy: Florence _ _ * ___ 304 Lombardy __ 305 Rome.-. 305 Turkey in Asia: Asia Minor 308 Sivas-, 310 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR PEPORTS. 5 Page. How the industry is conducted in — Austria-Hungary 273 France (cheapening labor) 379 St. Etienne 280 Germany : Aix-la-Chapelle 282 Barmen 284 Gera 288 Great Britain : Leeds 291 Holland 302 Italy : Florence 304 Lombardy 1 305 Rome 306 Turkey in Asia : Asia Minor 308 Siv*s 310 Syria 312 How the work-people live in — Austria-Hungary 273 France I 278- St. Etienne _*. 280 Germany : Aix-la-Chapelle 282 Gera 288 Great Britain : Leeds 291 Holland 302 Italy: Florence i 304 Rome 305 Turkey in Asia: Asia Minor.. 308 Sivas __ 310 Syria 312 Grades of carpet manufactured in — Austria- Hungary 271 France 276 St. Etienne 280 Germany: Aix-la-Chapelle 281 Barmen 283 Gera 286 Great Britain: Leeds 289-291 Holland 301,303 Italy: Florence 304 Lomhardy.-- 304 Rome__ 305 6 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. Page. Grades of carpet manufactured in — Continued. Turkey in Asia: Asia Minor _— 308 Sivas 309 Syria 311 Imports and exports of carpet into and from Italy 306 Looms, number and kinds in — Austria-Hungary 271 France - 276 St.Etienne -- 380 Germany: Aix-la-Chapelle .._ 281 Barmen _. 283 Gera 284 Great Britain: Leeds 289 Holland 301,302 • Italy: Florence 304 Lombardy 304 Rome 305 Turkey in Asia: Asia Minor 307 Sivas __ 310 Syria . 311 Marketing tbe product in — Austria-Hungary . 273 France- 279 St. Etienne 280 Germany: Aix-la-Chapelle 282 Barmen 284 Gera _ 288 Great Britain: Leeds ^ 291 Holland 302 Italy: Florence 304 Lombardy 305 Rome 306 Turkey in Asia: I Asia Minor 309 Sivas 310 Syria 312 Mill machinery in Germany 287 Mills and establishments in — Austria-Hungary ._ 261 France 276 St. Etienne 280 Germany: Aix-la-Chapelle. ._ _. 281 Barmen 283 Gera.. 285 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. 7 Page. Mills and establishments in — Continued. Great Britain: Leeds. - 289 Leith _ 297 Holland ..301,303 Italy: Florence 304 Lombardy 304 Rome.__ 305 Turkey in Asia; Asia Minor _ ._ - - 307 Sivas 309 Syria __ __ 310 Price-lists, Hnddersfield _ 292 Syria, history of carpet- making in 312 carpet-weaving by the Nomads 313 Wages in— Austria-Hungary 272 France 276 St. Etienne 280 Germany: Aix-la-Chapelle 281 Barmen 284 Gera — 287 Great Britain: Leeds 290 Holland 301 Italy: Florence 304 Lombardy^ 305 Rome 305 Turkey in Asia: Asia Minor 308 Sivas - 310 Where the product finds consumption — Austro-Hungarian 274 British: Leeds 291 Dutch -_. -„ -. - 301 French 279 St. Etienne 280 German: Aix-la-Chapelle 282 Barmen — 284 Gera — - 288 Italian : Florence 304 Lombardy ,- 305 Rome — 306 Turkish: Asia Minor 309 Sivas 310 Syria - 312 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. 4. MALT AND BEER IN SPANISH AMERICA Page. Mexico 329 LaPaz 333 Mataruoras 334 Paso del Norte — 335 Piedras Negras 335 Saltillo 336 Sonora 337 Tuxpan.__ -'- 338 Central America: Costa Rica _ — 339 Honduras _ - 340 Nicaragua 341 Salvador - 342 South America: Argentine Republic. __ 343 Brazil: Bahia. . 350 Para 353 Pernambuco 354 Rio de Janeiro , 355 Rio Grande do Sul — 356 British Guiana 357 Chili: Iquique 358 Talcahuano 359 Ecuador 360 Republic of Colombia: Barranquilla ^ 362 Colon 364 Venezuela: La Guayra 365 Maracaibo 366 Puerto Cabello 369 British West Indies: Antigua 370 Bahamas _ 371 Bermuda _._. 374 Dominica 374 Jamaica 375 Montserrat 377 Nevis I— 378 Trinidad ___ 378 Danish West Indies: St. Thomas .__ _ 379 Dutch West Indies: Curacoa 380 French West Indies: Guadaloupe 380 Martinique 381 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAK REPORTS. 9 Page. Spanish West Indies: Cuba -___ _.. 382 Cienfuegos . __ 383 Havana ._ , 384 Sagua la Grande 385 Santiago de Cuba 386 San Domingo: Puerto Plata .__ 388 Supplement: Exports 389 Imports 390 5. FRUIT CULTURE IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES. ARRANGEMENT. Page. PART I. The Orange and the Lemon 399-585 PART II. The Olive 587-727 PART III. The Fig.. 729-769 PART IV. The Vine 771-867 PAKT V. Supplement 809-937 OBANGES AND LEMONS. Page. CONTINENT OF AFRICA. Cape Colony (Consul Hollis) 399 Oranges, 399— insect pests, 399. Egypt (Consul-General Schuyler) 400 Oranges, 400— lemons, 400. Morocco (Consul Mathews) _ 400-404 Oranges, 400 — varieties, 400, 402 — maturity, 400 — propagation, 400 — planting, 400 — insect pests, 400 — situation, 401 — irrigation, 401 — cultivation, 401 — limes, 403 — lemons, 404 — citron, 404 — pruning, 404. CONTINENT OF AMERICA. Mexico: Guerrero (Consul Sutter) _ __ „ 405, 406 Oranges, 405 — varieties, 405 — limes, 405 — maturity, 405 — propaga- tion, 405 — insect pests, 405 — planting, 405 — situation, 406 — irri- gation, 406— yield, 406. Sonora (Consul Williams) 406, 407 Oranges, 407 — situation, 407 — irrigation, 4 07 — propagation, 407 — planting, 407 — yield, 407 — insect pests, 407 — lemons, 407. Lower California (Consul Viosca) 407-409 Oranges, 407— varieties, 407— situation, 408— climate, 408— irri- 1 gation, 408— cultivation, 408— fertilizers, 408— pruning, 408— picking, 408 — packing and shipping, 409 — planting, 409 — ma- turity, 409— insect pests, 409. Central America: Gautemala (Consul-General Hosmer) 409 Oranges, 40U— lemons, 409— situation, 409— culture, 409. 10 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. Page. CONTINENT OF AMERICA — Continued. South America: Brazil Bahia (Consul Burke) 410-412 Oranges, 410— varieties, 410— cultivation, 410, 411— situation, 410 — soil, 410— climate, 411 — irrigation, 411 — pruning, 411 — picking, 411 — planting, 411 — maturity, 411 — insect pests, 411 — lemons, 411— varieties, 411 — limes, 411. British Guiana (Consul Walthal) 412, 413 Oranges, 412— varieties, 412— situation, 412— climate, 412— irri- gation, 413— fertilizers, 413— pruning, 413— planting, 413— maturity, 413 — insect pests, 413 — lemons, 413 — limes, 413. Ecuador (ConsuLGeneral Sorsby) 413, 414 Oranges, 413 — varieties, 413— situation, 413 — climate, 413 — culti- vation, 414 — fertilizers, 414 — pruning, 414 — picking, 414 — pack- ing and shipping, 414 — planting, 414 — maturity, 414 — insect pests, 414 — lemons, 414 — picking, 414 — curing, 414 — yield, 414. Ecuador (Consul Beach) 414-416 Oranges, 415 — varieties, 415 — maturity, 415 — propagation, 415 — planting, 415 — situation, 415 — irrigation, 416 — cultivation, 416— yield, 416— lemons, 416— varieties, 416— maturity, 416— propagation, 416 — insect pests, 416 — situation, 416— cultiva- tion, 416— irrigation, 416— yield, 416. Venezuela (Consul Bird) 416,417 Oranges, 416 — variety, 416 — maturity, 416 — cultivation, 416 — propagation, 416 — fertilizers, 416 — pruning, 416 — insect pests, 417 — maturity, 417 — situation, 417 — lemons, 417 — limes, 417. Maracaibo (Consul Plumacher) 417 Oranges, 417 — varieties, 417 — cultivation, 417 — lemons, 417 — va- rieties, 417 — cultivation, 417. Puerto Cabello (Consul de Blanc) -_ 417 Oranges, 417 — cultivation, 417 — lemons, 417 — cultivation, 417. British West Indies: Bermuda (Consul Beckwith) 418,419 Oranges, 418 — situation, 418— soil, 418— climate, 418— cultiva- tion, 418 — pruning, 419 — picking, 419 — curing, 419 — planting, 419— maturity, 419— insect pests, 419. Dominica (Consular-Agent Stedman) . 420 Oranges, 420 — varieties, 420 — cultivation, 420 —situation, 420 — lemons, 420 — situation, 420 — picking, 420 — situation, 420. Jamaica (Consul Haskinson) 420-424 Oranges, 420 — varieties, 421 — propagation, 421 — pruning, 422—^ limes, 421 — citron, 421. Jamaica (Consul Hoskinson) 424-427 Oranges, 424 — varieties, 424 — propagation, 424 — maturity, 425 — lemons, 425 — insect pests, 425 — planting, 425 — situation, 426 — irrigation, 426— yield, 426. Trinidad (Consul Sawyer) 427, 428 Oranges, 427— varieties, 428— situation, 428— climate, 428— irri- gation, 428 — cultivation, 428 — fertilizers, 428 — pruning, 428 — picking, 428 — curing, 428 — packing, 428 — planting, 428 — ma- turity, 428— insect pests, 428— cuttings, 428. Dutch West Indies (Consul Smith) „ 428 Oranges, 428— lemons, 428, INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. 11 CONTINENT OF AMERICA — Continued. French West Indies: Guadeloupe (Consul Barlett) — . 429 Limes, 429 — oranges, 429 — varieties, 429 — insect pests, 429— cul- tivation, 429 — fertilizers, 429 — pruning, 429 — propagation, 429— maturity, 429. Spanish West Indies: Cuba (Consul-General Williams) 430 Oranges, 430— planting, 430— lemons, 430— planting, 430. Santiago de Cuba (Consul Reimer) 430, 431 Oranges, 430 — varieties, 430 — situation, 431— climate, 431 — lem- ons, 431. Porto Rico (Consul Conroy) 431-433 Oranges, 431 — maturity, 432 — planting, 432 — cultivation, 432 — ir- rigation, 432 — climate, 432, Asia Minor (Consul Emmett) 434,435 Oranges, 434— situation, 434 — climate, 434 — irrigation, 434 — cul- tivation, 334 — fertilizers, 434 — pruning, 434 — picking and cur- ing, 435 — planting and propagation, 435 — maturity, 435. Mitylene (Consular Agent Fottion) 435,436 Oranges and lemons, 435 — varieties, 435 — maturity, 435 — propa- gation, 435 — insect pests, 435 — situation, 435 — irrigation, 435, 436— pruning, 435— fertilizers, 435— yield, 436. Palestine (Consul Gillman) 436-439 Oranges and lemons, 436 — varieties, 436 — situation, 437 — soil, 437 — diinate, 437 — irrigation, 437 — cultivation, 437 — fertilizers, 438 — pruning, 438 — picking, 438 — planting and propagation. 438— maturity, 438— insect pests, 438. Syria: Beirut (Consul Bissinger) 439,440 Oranges, 439 — varieties, 439 — soil, 439 — climate, 439 — irrigation, 439 — cultivation, 439 — fertilizers, 439 — pruning, 439 — picking, 439 — planting and propagation, 439 — maturity, 440— insect pests, 440 — lemons, 440 — varieties, 440 — propagation, 440. Beirut (Consul Robeson) 410,441 Oranges, 440 — varieties, 440 — maturity, 440 — propagation, 440 — situation, 440 — irrigation, 440 — fertilizers, 440 — cultivation, 440— yield, 441— lemons, 440— varieties, 440— insect pests, 440— situation, 440— fertilizers, 440 — irrigation, 440 — cultivation, 440. Haifa (Consular Agent Schumacher) 441,442 Oranges, 441 — varieties, 441 — situation, 441 — climate, 441 — irri- gation, 441 — cultivation, 441 — fertilizers, 442 — pruning, 442 — picking, 442 — planting and propagation, 442 — maturity, 442 — insect pests, 442. Haifa (Consular Agent Schumacher) 442, 443 Oranges and lemons, 442 — varieties, 442 — propagation, 442 — in- sect pests, 443 — planting, 443 — irrigation, 443 — cultivation, 443 — yield, 443. Mersina (Consular Agent Dawson) 443, 444 Oranges and lemons. 443 — varieties, 443, situation, 443, soil, 443 — climate, 443 — irrigation, 443 — pruning,4 44 — picking, 444,curing, 444 — shipping, 444 — planting and propagation, 444 — maturity, 444 — insect pests, 444 — packing, 444. 12 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. Paga CONTINENT OF AMERICA — Continued. Sidon (Consul Bissinger) 445 Oranges, 445 — varieties, 445 —situation, 445 — soil, 445, climate, 445 — irrigation, 445, cultivation, 445 — fertilizers. 445 — pruning, 445 — picking, 445 — packing, 445 — planting and propagation, 445. Sidon (Consular Agent Abela) ____ 445, 446 Oranges and lemons, 445 — varieties, 445 — soil, 446 — insect pests, 446 — situation, 446 — irrigation, 446 — yield, 446. Tarsus (Acting Consular Agent Arania) 446, 447 Oranges and lemons, 446 — varieties, 446 — propagation, 447— sit- uation, 447 — irrigation, 447 — yield, 447. Tripoli and vicinity (Consul Bissinger) j. 447, 448 Oranges and lemons, 447 — varieties, 447 — situation, 447, climate, 447 — irrigation, 448 — cultivation, 448 — fertilizers, 448 — pruning, 448 — picking, 448 — planting and propagation, 448 — maturity, 448— insect pests, 448. Aden (Consul Moore) 449 Oranges and lemons, 449. India (Vice-Consul Bode) 449-454 Oranges, 449 — varieties, 449 — situation, 450 — climate, 451 — irri- gation, 451 — cultivation, 452 — pruning, 452 — picking, 452 — curing, 452 — packing, 452 — planting and propagation, 452 — ma- turity, 453 — insect pests, 453 — lemons, 453 — citron, 453— limes, 453— climate, 454. Philippine Islands (Consul Webb) 454-457 Oranges and lemons, 454 — varieties, 454 — situation, 455 — climate, 455 — irrigation, 456 — propagation, 456. AUSTRALASIA. New South Wales (Commercial Agent Dawson) 457,458 Oranges and lemons, 457 — varieties, 457 — irrigation, 457 — plant- ing and propagation, 458 — insect pests, 458. Australasia (Consul Griffin) .__ 458-475 Oranges, 458 — variety, 460 — lemon, 463 — lime, 464 — soil, 464 — climate, 467 — planting, 470 — propagation, 470 — irrigation, 471 — pruning, 471 — picking and packing, 472 — curing, 472 — maturi- ties, 473 — insect pests, 473. Fiji (Commercial Agent St. John) 476 Oranges, 476 — lemons, 476. CONTINENT OF EUROPE. France (Consul Bradley) ; 477-488 Oranges, 477 — varieties, 477 — lemons, 478 — varieties, 478 — fertil- izers, 479 — pruning, 480 — propagation, 481 — insect pests, 481. Corsica (Consular Agent Damiani) 488,489 Oranges and lemons, 488 — situation, 488— cultivation, 488 — prun- ing, 488 — climate, 488 — insect pests, 489 — maturity, 489 — vari- eties, 489. Marseilles (Consul Trail) _' 489, 490 Oranges and lemons, 489. Mentone (Consular Agent Clericy) '___ 490, 491 Oranges and lemons, 490 — varieties, 490 — situation, 490— soil, 490 — climate, 490 — irrigation, 490 — cultivation, 490, pruning, 490 — picking and curing, 490 — planting and propagation, 490 — maturity, 490— insect pests, 490— fertilizers, 491. INDEX TO .SPECIAL CONfeULAK KEPORTS. 13 Page. CONTINENT OF EUEOPE— Continued. Italy: Carrara (Consul Kice) 491, 492 Oranges and lemons, 491 — varieties, 491 — situation, 491— climate, 491 — irrigation, 491 — fertilizers, 491 — pruning, 491 — picking, 491 — propagation, 492 — maturity, 492 — insect pests, 492. Genoa (Consul Fletcher)— 492-494 Oranges and lemons, 492 — varieties, 492 — maturity, 492 — plant- ing, 493 — situation, 493 — cultivation, 493. Messina (ConsulJones) 495-498 Oranges and lemons, 495 — varieties, 495 — situation, 495— soil, 495— climate, 495 — irrigation, 496 — cultivation, 496 — fertilizers, 497— pruning, 497 — picking, 497 — planting, 497 — propagation, 497 — varieties, 497 — maturity, 498 — insect pests, 498 — picking and curing, 498. Messina (Consul Jones) 499-507 Oranges, 499 — packing and shipping, 499 — situation, 501 — soil, 501 — lemons, 501 — varieties, 502 — essences, 502— raw and con- centrated lemon juice, 504 — fruit in brine, 506. Naples (Consul Camphausen) 507, 508 Oranges and lemons, 507 — varieties, 507 — situation, 507 — climate, 508 — irrigation, 508 — cultivation, 508 — pruning, 508 — picking, 508 — planting and propagation, 508 — maturity, 508 — insect pests, 508. Palermo (Consul Carroll) 508-516 Oranges and lemons, 508 — varieties, 508 — planting and propaga- tion, 509 — maturity, 509 — insect pests, 509— situation, 510 — soil, 511— climate, 511— irrigation, 512— fertilizers. 513— pick- ing and curing, 514. Sicily (Consul Lamantia) 1___ 516-521 Oranges and lemons, 516 — varieties, 516 — situation, 517 — climate, 517 — irrigation, 517 — cultivation, 517 — fertilizers, 518 — graft- ing, 518 — pruning, 518 — picking, 518 — planting and propaga- tion, 519 — maturity, 519 — insect pests, 519 — gum disease, 520 — replanting, 520. Sicily (Consul Jones) ; 521,522 Lemons, 521 — soils, 522 — situation, 522 — fertilizers, 522, Sicily (Consul Woodcock) 522-526 Oranges and lemons, 522 — varieties, 523 — insect pests, 524 — soil, 524 — irrigation, 525 — cultivation, 525 — picking, 525. Venetia (Consul Noyes) 526-529 Lemons, 526 — cultivation, 527 — fertilizers, 527 — propagation, 527. Portugal : The Azores (Consular Agent Moreira) 529,530 Oranges, 529 — varieties, 529 — situation, 529 — soil, 529— climate, 529 — irrigation, 530 — cultivation, 530 — fertilizers, 530 — pruning, 530 — picking, 530 — curing and packing, 530 — planting and propagation, 530 — maturity. 530. The Azores (Consul Dabney) 531, 532 Oranges and lemons, 531 — varieties, 531 — cultivation, 531 — prop- agation, 531 — packing, 532 — soil, 532. 14 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. Page. CONTINENT OF EUROPE — Continued. Spain (Consul Lowenstein) 532-564 Oranges, 532 — cultivation, 532 — climate, 532 — soil, 534 — propa- gation, 536— nurseries, 537 — grafting, 540— transplanting, 544 — cultivation, 547 — fertilizers, 553 — diseases, 558 — climate, 558 — insect pests, 559 — parasitic plants, 562. Western Andalusia (Consul Oppenheirn) 564-577 Oranges, 564 — varieties and maturity, 565— planting, 565 — insect pests, 566 — fertilizers, 573 — yield, 576. Barcelona (Consul Scheuch) 577-581 Oranges, 577 — varieties, 577 — situation, 578 — soil, 578 — cultiva- tion, 578 — yield, 579 — maturity, 581 — lemons, 581 — cultivation, 581. Malaga (Consul Marston) 582,583 Oranges and lemons, 582 — situation, 582 — climate, 582 — irriga- tion, 582 — cultivation, 582— fertilizers, 582 — pruning, 582 — pick- ing, 582— packing and shipping, 582 — planting and propaga- tion, 582— maturity, 582 — insect pests, 582 — packing and cur- ing, 582. Turkey (Consul-General Heap) 583-585 Oranges and lemons, 583 — varieties, 583 — propagation, 583 — in- sect pests, 583 — diseases, 584 — planting, 584 — situation, 584 — irrigation, 584 — yield, 584. OLIVES. CONTINENT OP AFRICA. Morocco (Consul Mathews) 589-594 Varieties, 589 — cultivation and propagation, 590 — queen olives, 591 — maturity, 591 — yield, planting, picking, packing, and oil, 592 — situation and soil, 593 — irrigation, climate, and pruning, 594. CONTINENT OF AMERICA. Mexico: Lower California (Consul Viosca) 595,596 Varieties, situation, climate, pruning, maturity, planting, and insect 'pests, 595— soil, 596. Ecuador (Consul Beach) 596 Production, 596. Venezuela (Consul Bird) 596 Production, 596. West Indies: I Bermuda (Consul Beckwith) 596 Production, 596. Trinidad (Consul Sawyer) 597 Production, 597. Cuba (Consul- General Williams) 597 Production, 597. Guadeloupe (Consul Bartlett) 597 Production, 597. INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. 15 Page. CONTINENT OF AsrA. Asia Miuor (Consuls Emmett and Stevens). 598-600 Varieties, situation, climate, irrigation, cultivation, and pruning, 598 — pickling, picking, oil manufacture, maturity, yield, plant- ing and propagating, and insect pests, 599 — situation, 591) — cul- tivation, varieties, picking, and expressing oil, 600 Palestine (Consul Gillman) 601-604 Varieties, climate, irrigation, and cultivation, 601 — pruning, pick- ing, pickling, and oil-making. 602 — maturity, yield, planting, and propagating, 603— insect pests, 604. Syria: Aleppo (Consular Agent Poche) . 604,605 Varieties. 604 — cultivation, 605. Beirut (Consul Kissinger) 605,606 Varieties, 695 — pruning, picking, maturity, yield, and planting, 606. Beirut (Consul Robeson) 606,607 Varieties, cultivation, planting, and yield, 606— picking, irriga- tion, and climate, 607. Damascus (Consular Agent Meshaka) 607,608 Varieties, situation, climate, 607 — irrigation, cultivation, prun- ing, picking, curing, maturity, yield, planting and propagat- ing, and insect pests, 60B. Haifa (Consular Agent Schumaker) 609,610 Varieties, situation, climate, irrigation, cultivation, pruning, picking, 609— maturity, yield, planting and propagating, and insect pests, 610. Schwayfat (Consul Bissinger) __•_ 610-612 Varieties, situation, soil, climate, and irrigation, 610 — cultiva- tion, pruning, picking, curing, oil, pickling, maturity, and yield, 611 — plan ting and propagation, and insect pests, 612. Sidon (Consul Bissinger) 612 Varieties, situation, climate, irrigation, cultivation, pruning, picking, maturity, yield, planting, and insects, 612. Sidon (Consular Agent Abela) 612, 613 Varieties, cultivation, and bearing, 613 — oil, location, 613. Tripoli (Consul Bissinger) 613, 614 Varieties, soil, manure, situation, climate, irrigation, cultivation, pruning, 613 — pickling, oil, maturity, yield, planting, and propagating, 614. Tripoli (Consular Agent Yanni) 614-616 Varieties, orchards, maturity, 614 — yield, planting, picking, oil, soil, 616 — Irrigation, situation, 616. ATPTRALASIA: Australasia (Consul Griffin) 616-613 Varieties, 616 — planting, soil, situation, manufacture of oil, 617. Fiji (Commercial Agent St. John)_ _ 618 Production, 618. CONTINENT OF EUROPE: France (Consul Trail) 619-627 Soil, 619 — varieties, 6'20 — cultivation, and fertilizing, 621 — pick- ing and curing, 622 — oil niaimtaeture, 624— prices, adultera- tion, 625. 346A 2 16 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. CONTINENT OF EUROPE— Continued. Southern France (Vice-Consul Martin) __ _. 627-630 Varieties, soil, situation, cultivation, 627 — pruning, fertilizers, ir- rigation planting, 628 — preparation, 629 — diseases, insect pests, 630. Nice (Consul Hathaway) 630-638 Varieties, yield of oil, situation, 631 — picking, oil, manufacture, 632 — adulteration, insect pests, 633 — diseases, costs, profits, 634 — cultivation, soil, situation, 635 — propagating, nursery, 636 — transplanting, pruning, 637 — fertilizers, grafting, 638. Italy (Consul Lamantia) 639-660 Varieties, 639— vegetation, 640— climate, 641— situation, 642— soil, fertilizing, 643 — propagation by seed, 644 — propagation. by ovoli and talee, 645 — propogation by polloni, 646 — propagating by tronchi vecchi and olivastrelli, 647 — grafting, 647 — treating plants in reservoir, transplanting for final stay, 649 — pruning, 651 — insect pests, 653 — diseases, 657. Italy (Consul General Richmond) 661-689 Varieties, maturity, green and dried olives, yield, 659 — planting, preserving, extracting the oil, soil, climate, irrigation, locality, 660. Italy(Consul Grain) 659-665 Culture and production, 661 — climate, soil, propagation, 662 — cul- tivation, pruning, oil, 663 — prices, 664 — cotton-seed oil, 664. Genoa (Consul Fletcher) 665-669 Varieties, seeding, planting, 665 — olive region, 616 — production, pickling, 666 — oil extraction, results, soil, climate, 667 — cost of cultivation, exports and imports of oil, 668. Lucca (Consul Rice) 669-671 Varieties, cultivation, pruning, 669 — picking, oil-making, 670 — propagation, insect pests, 671. Messina (Consul Jones) 671-673 Varieties, planting, soil, 671 — climate, irrigation, cultivation, pruning, picking, curing, 672— pickling, maturity, yield, plant- ing, insect pests, 673. Naples (Consul Camphausen) 674 Varieties, climate, cultivation, pruning, picking, maturity, yield, planting, publications, insect pests, 674. Palermo (Consul Carroll) 675-680 Varieties, climate, 675 — soil, 676 — cultivation, pruning, 677 — picking, pickling, manufacture of oil, 678 — maturity, yield,* planting, cultivation, insect pests, 680. Sicily (Consul Lamantia) 681-684 / Olive in ancient and modern times, 681 — production and expor- tation, varieties, 682— situation, climate, irrigation, cultivation, pruning, picking^ pickling, 683. Sicily (Consul Woodcock) 684-687 Varieties, soil, 684 — planting and propagating, 685 — pruning, cul- tivation, oil, picking, 686. Tuscany (Consul Welsh) 687-694 Varieties, 688 — planting, pruning, 689 — oil, 690 — picking, yield, diseases, culture, 682— climate, export of oil. 693. INDEX TO SPECIAL, CONSULAR REPORTS. 17 Page. CONTIXKXT OF Er ROPE— Continued. Italy — Continued. Venetia (Consul Noyes) 694-701 Cultivation, 694 — varieties, 695 — culture, manure, protection from cold, 696 — pruning, yield, gathering, 697 — oil-making, 698 — cli- mate, 700. Spain (Consul Oppenheim) 701-718 Origin, varieties, 701 — planting and propagating, 705 — cultivation, 706 — pruning, 707 — climate, situation, 708 — soil, pests, 711 — picking, pickling, 713 — oil pressing, 714 — yield, 715 — exports, 717. Malaga (Consul Marston) 718-721 Varieties, situation, climate, irrigation, cultivation, pruning, pick- ing, pickling, 718 — maturity, yield, planting, insect pests, 719 — varieties, cultivation, maturity, yield, planting, pickling, situa- tion, soil, climate, oil, 720. Turkey (Consul-General Heap) 721-725 Varieties, cultivation, 721 — maturity, yield, planting, picking, pickling, 722 — oil making, 723 — irrigation, yield, soil, 724 — climate, 725. Crete (Consul-General Heap) 725,726 Harvest, 72.5— oil yield, export, 726. Dardanelles (Consular Agent Calvert) . 726,727 Varieties, trees, sit Nation, soil, climate, fertilizers, cultivation, 726 — pruning, picking, curing, maturity, planting, insect pests, 727. FIGS. CONTINENT OF AFRICA. Morocco (Consul Mathews) 731-733 Varieties, 731 — planting, propagating, fertilizing, maturity, yield, curing, 732. CONTINENT OF AMERICA. Mexico: La Paz (Consul Viosca) 734 Varieties, watering, pruning, picking, 734. Ecuador (Consul Beach) 734 Varieties, cultivation, 734— yield, 735. Venezuela (Consul Bird) 735 West Indies: Bermuda (Consul Beckwith) ... 735 Production, insect pests, 735. Trinidad (Consul Sawyer) 736 Production, pests, 736. Cuba (Consul-General Williams) 736 Production, 736. Guadeloupe (Consul Bartlett) 736 Insect pests, 736. CONTINENT OF ASIA. Asia Minor (Consul Emmett) 737-739 Varieties, situation, soil, climate, irrigation, cultivation, fertilizers, pruning, picking, planting, and propagating, 738 — maturity, in sect peste, 739. 18 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. CONTINENT OF ASIA — Continued. Palestine (Consul Gillman) -. „_ . 739-741 Varieties, situation, climate, 739 — irrigation, cultivation, ferti- lizers, pruning, picking, planting, maturity, insect pests, cut- ting, 740. Syria: Beirut and vicinity (Consul Bissinger) ._ 741-746 Varieties, situation, irrigation, cultivation, fertilizing, pruning, picking, planting, climate, 741 — irrigation, cultivation, ferti- lizers, pruning, picking, curing, planting, 742 — cutting, varie- ties, situation, soil, climate, irrigation, cultivation, 743 — fertilizers, pruning, picking, planting, maturity, insect pests, slips. Sidon: varieties, situation, climate, irrigation, cultiva- tion, fertilizers, pruning, picking, curing, 744 — planting, ma- turity, insect pests, cuttings, 745. Tripoli: varieties, situ- ation, climate, irrigation, cultivation, fertilizers, pruning, pick- ing, curing, 745 — planting, maturity, disease, cuttings, 746. India (Vice-Consul Bode) ... 746-748 Varieties, situation, 746 — soil, climate, irrigation, cultivation, fer- tilizers, pruning, picking, planting, size of orchards, maturity, 747 — insect pests, cuttings, publications, 748. AUSTRALASIA. Australasia (Consul Griffin) 748,749 Cultivation, cuttings, varieties, 748 — situation, climate, caprifica- tion, insect pests, 749. Fiji (Commercial Agent St. John) 749 Experiments, blight, 749. CONTINENT OP EUROPE. France (Consul Trail) __ 750-753 Varieties, climate, soil, 750 — situation, climate, planting, ferti- lizers, pruning, maturity, picking, 751 — prices, 752 — insect pests, reproduction, 753. Corsica (Consular Agent Damiani) 753-755 Varieties, 753 — situation, climate, cultivation, planting, picking, yield, 754. Southern France (Vice-Consul Martin) 755 Picking, drying, 755. Italy (Consul-General Richmond) 756 Varieties, drying, 756. Catania (Consul Woodcock) 756-758 Varieties, 756 — drying, propagating, 757. * Messina (Consul Jones) 758-760 Varieties, planting, situation, soil, climate, irrigation, 758 — cul- tivation, fertilizers, pruning, picking, planting, maturity, 759. Naples (Consul Camphausen) 760,761 Varieties, situation, climate, irrigation, pruning, picking, and cur- ing, 760 — planting, maturity, insect pests, cuttings, 761. Palermo (Consul Carroll) __ 761,762 Cultivation, 761 — propagation, varieties, 762. Sicily (Consul Laraantia) 762-764 Varieties, situation, 762 — climate, irrigation, cultivation, ferti- lizers, pruning, picking, curing, planting, 763 — maturity, insect pests, 764. INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. 19 Page. CONTINENT OF ErK-u-K — Continued. Portugal: The Azores (Consul Dabney) 765 Production, 765. Spain: Malaga (Consul Marston) 765,766 Varieties, situation, climate, irrigation, cultivation, fertilizers, pruning, picking, curim>, and packing, 765 — planting, maturity, insect pests, cuttings, 766. Turkey (Consul-General Heap) 76G-768 Production, 766 — yield, 767— curing, 768. Dardanelles (Consular Agent Calvert) 768, 769 Varieties, trees, 768— soil, climate, irrigation, cultivation, fer- tilizers, pruning, picking, planting, orchards, maturity, capri- fication, insect pests, 769. THE VINE. CONTINENT OF AFRICA. Morocco (Consul Mathews) 773-775 Cultivation, planting, pruning, 773 — propagating, manures, 774 — phylloxera congress, 775. CONTINENT OF AMERICA. South America: Ecuador (Consul Beach) .__. 776 Methods of cultivation, value of crop, 776. CONTINENT OF ASIA. Asia Minor 777-779 Climate, 777— situation, varieties, pruning, planting, cultivation, 778 — maturity, vintage, cultivation, exports, 779. Mitylene (Consular Agent Fottion) 779,780 Cultivation, 779 — pruning, harvest, irrigation, yield, 780. Syria: Beirut (Consul Robeson) — 780,781 Mildew, soil, 780 — cultivation, yield, 781. Aleppo (Consular Agent Poche) 781 Cultivation, pruning, diseases, 781. Haifa (Consular Agent Schumacher) 782, 783 Situation, mildew, 782 — pruning, 783. Sidon (Consular Agent Abela) 783,784 Position, pruning, soil, cultivation, bearing, irrigation, 783 — yield, 784. Tarsus (Acting Consular Agent Avania) 784, 785 Situation, yield, 784. Tripoli (Acting Consular Agent Yanni) 785,786 Situation, diseases, planting, 785 — yield, 786. CONTINENT OF EUROPE. Austria- Hungary (Consul-General Weaver) 787-793 Climate, 737 — industry, soil, pruning, situation, 788 — yield, pro- duction of wine, 789 — phylloxera, commerce of wine and argols, 790 — duties, 791 — prices and consumption, 792. France: Southern France (Vice-Consul Martin) 793, 800 Climate, soil, varieties, 793— planting Jand culture, 795— ferti- lizers, 796— yield, diseases, 797— wine making, 799. 20 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. Paga. CONTINENT OF EUKOPE — Continued. France —Continued. Champagne (Consul Frisbie) .— 800-809 Cultivation, 801 — vineyards, varieties, 802 — picking, harvest, 806— diseases, 807. Cognac (Consul Preston) 809-825 Culture, soil, 809 — report of Professor Rivas, 810 — fields of demon- stration, 810 — reconstructing vineyards with American plants, 811 — American vines in calcareous soils, chlorosis in American vines, 813 — phylloxera, 825. Champagne, phylloxera in (Consul Preston, Nice) 825,826 Gironde (Consul Roosevelt) 826-836 Soils, 826— sub-soils, 827— planting, 828— situation and care, 830— pruning, 833 — expenses of culture, 834. Italy (Consul-General Richmond) _ 836,837 Cultivation, 836 — yield, expenses, 837. Tuscany (Consul Welsh) 837,838 Varieties, 837 — cultivation, pruning, soil, 838. Venetia (Consul Noyes) ._ 839-846 Climate and fruit and vine-growing, 839 — island and lagoon vine- yards, 840 — vineyards on the mainland, 841 — planting and cul- tivating, 842 — varieties, 843 — crop, cultivation, profits, 845. Russia (Consul-General Stanton) _ _ 846-851, Culture, 847 — yield, 848 — Caucasian districts, 849 — Russian vs. foreign vines, total product, 850. Spain: Denia ( Consul Arquimbau) „ _ 851,852 Production, raisins, 851 — American ships, lumber, 852. Malaga (Consul Marston) 852-859 Climate, 852 — situation, pruning, soil, planting, 853 — cultivation, maturity, irrigation, yield, picking, 854 — extent of cultivation, 855. Turkey in Europe (Consul-General Heap) 859-866 Situation, 859 — pruning, soil, cultivation, 860 — irrigation, yield, 863 — varieties, 864 — raisin-drying, 864 — packing, 865 — freights, 866. Salonica (Consular Agent Lazaro) 866,867 Situation, pruning, soil, cultivation, maturity, irrigation, yield, 866--climate, 867. SUPPLEMENT. CRYSTALLIZATION OF FRUIT. Marseilles (Consul Mason) : „ 871-876 Supply of fruit, process, 872 — uses of spent syrup, cost and market value, 874— industry in United States, 875. Cognac (Consul Irish) _ ._ 876-883 Whitening fruit, 877— sugaring fruit, 878 — preparing particular fruits, 879— iced fruits, 881 — candied fruits, sugars, 882. Rheims (Consul Irish) 883-886 Crystallized, candied, and carameled fruits, 884. Bordeaux (Consul Roosevelt) 886-888 Apricots, 887 — cherries and chestnuts, 888. INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. 21 Page. CBYSTALIZATION OF FEUIT — Continued. Nice (Consul Hathaway) - 888-890 Process of crystallizing fruit, Beauine" barometer, 889 — production and cost, 890. Clermont Ferrand (Consul Dufais) 890,891 Processes, 890. THE DATE PALM. Persia (Minister Pratt) 891,892 Situation, propagation, planting, fecundating, 891. ALMOND TREE. Tangier (Consul Matthews) _ 892-894 Cultivation, soil, varieties, 892 — propagation, fertilizing, maturity, yield, 893. GRAPE-VINE FERTILIZER. St. Etienne (Commercial Agent Malmros) 894,895 Recipe, 894. CITBOX OF COMMERCE. Rome (Consul-General Alden) 895,896 Situation, crop, fruit, 895 — yield, cost of production, imports and ex- ports, process of preparation, market prices, 896. Leghorn (Consul Sartori) . 897,898 Cultivation, candying, 897. Messina (Consul Jones) _. 893-900 Description of tree, propagation, 898 — diseases, shipment, prices, and exports, 899. Naples (Consul Camphausen) __. 900-902 Cultivation, 900 — packing and preserving, 901. Sicily (Consul Woodcock) 902-906 Location, orchards, 902 — propagation, orchards, 903 — gathering and boxing, 904— diseases, exports, 905. Cuba (Consul Pierce) _ _ 906.907 Cultivation, uses, 906. Madeira (Acting Consul Hutchinson) 907 Cultivation, prices, and shipments, 907. Mexico, (Consul Viosca) 907 Cultivation, exports, 907. FRUIT-TREE CULTURE. Cognac (Consul Earle) _ _ _ _.. 907-911 Dwarfing, 907— method of planting, 909— shapes, 910. FRUIT CULTURE. Mentone (Consular Agent Viale) 911-916 Lemon, 912 — diseases, oranges, 913 — grape-vine, propagation, pruning, wine, varieties, 914 — diseases, olive-tree, propagation, yield, insect pests, cultivation, 916— miscellaneous fruits, perfumery, 916. Zante (Consular Agent Crowe) 916-922 Currant-grape vineyards, 916 — planting and cultivation, 917 — irriga- tion, yield, 918— oranges and lemons, 919— olives, 920 — figs, 921. Alps, Maritime (Consul Wilson) _ _ 922-924 Palms, cocoa, cactus, and aloe, 922 — temperature, climate, 923 — soil, agriculture, olives, oil, 924— varieties, 925 — age of bearing, modes of planting and cultivation, best trees, time of gathering, 926 — how 22 INDEX TO SPECIAL CONSULAR REPORTS. Page, FRUIT CULTURE — Continued. Alps, Maritime — Continued. planted, olive yield, pickled olives, oil, 927 — oil manufacture, 928 — irrigation, situation, diseases, cost and profits, 929 — no more plant- ing of olive trees; oranges, and lemons, varieties, and value, 930 — propagation, maladies, situation, irrigation, 931 — planting, pruning, yield, and cost of cultivation, 932 — figs, cultivation, drying, and curing figs, 933 — raisins, 934. THE MANGOSTEEN. Singapore (Consul Studer) _ _ _ 934-936 Tannic qualities, 934— fruits, 935. CULTIVATION OP TROPICAL FRUITS. Samoa (Vice-Consul Blacklock) _ 936 Oranges, lemons, figs, and olives, 936. Havraii (Consul-General Severance) 937 Oranges, figs, 937. 573594 UNIVERSITY OF CAUFORNIA LIBRARY > *"%jr~