No. 112.] 105 



It will be perceived, from the data set forth in this table, that 

 the chief competition rested between Manny, No. 2, and Ketchum, 

 No. 3. * 



Tiie judges did not feel entirely satisfied with the trial thus 

 far, as the grass did not present the resistance to be encountered 

 in average crops. The exhibitors were notified to present their 

 machines on the following morning at 8 o'clock on the farm of 

 Mr. Sherman, when a second trial would be made in heavy grass. 

 At the appointed hour the judges were on the ground, and caused 

 each machine to take its station as it arrived and was adjusted. 



The Ketchum Mower led off handsomely, opening a double swath. 



Mann^ 's Mower entered in the same manner and opened a dou- 

 ble swath. So well was the grass cut by both machines, that no 

 decided preference could be given to either — and it was manifest 

 that no labm* with a scythe could perform the work as well. 



Both machines then entered upon the low grounds, encounter- 

 ing high and thick grass, portions being lodged and tangled, lying 

 in all directions ; they were directed to cut double swaths through 

 this grass, and then to follow each other laying their swaths side 

 by side. Ketchum's machine performed the task without inter- 

 ruption; Manny's machine was stopped by cutting through a 

 hummock, which lodging on the knives, pressed down the stand- 

 ing grasSj preventing a free cutting action ; a second interruption 

 occurred when entering the swath, from inattention to clearing 

 the cutting knives. Aside from these casualties the work was 

 well performed. 



The quality of the work accomplished by both machines could 

 not fail to satisfy any farmer, and was better done than could be 

 performed by the most expert mower with a scythe. 



Manny's Machine is peculiar in its construction, by a facility 

 of raising or depressing; the cutting apparatus while in motion, at 



