T7E3T OXFORD SOCIETY. 83 



which I think of douhtful utility, as it deprives the exhibition of a 

 verv attractive feature. 



The exhibition of fruit was remarkably fine, and gave positive evi- 

 dence that some of the farmers of West Oxford have not neglected 

 this important branch of farm husbandry. John Moulton, Esq., of 

 Porter, the present member of the Board of Agriculture from this 

 Society, exhibited some twenty varieties of apples, many of which 

 were of superior size and flavor. Other exhibitors equalled Mr. 

 Moulton's in size and flavor, but not in variety. 



There were several pieces of agricultural machinery on exhibition, 

 among which I noticed a stump machine and several mowers and 

 reapers, owned by different individuals of the Society. ^Messrs. 

 Kendall, Whitney & Co., of Portland, by permission of the Society, 

 also exhibited a large assortment of agricultural implements, which 

 added much to the appearance of the wareroom and the interest of 

 the exhibition. I regard this feature of the exhibition as worthy of 

 commendation, for it directs the public mind to the canstruction and 

 use of labor saving machinery; the employment of which, in any 

 department of productive industry, indicates a spirit of progress. 



The 'Ladies' Fair' was well arranged, and reflected much credit 

 on its contributors. The tables and lines were loaded v/ith the sub- 

 stantial articles of household manufacture, of excellent material and 

 superior workmanship, giving evidence of industry, skill, and econ- 

 omy ; also beautiful specimens of needlework, indicating taste and 

 refinement. The tables were also adorned with bouquets and house 

 plants of rare beauty and fragrance. The ladies of West Oxford 

 deserve much commendation for this exhibition. 



Although not strictly a part of the industrial product of the Soci- 

 ety, yet occupying a conspicuous place in the hall and attracting 

 much notice, was a collection of birds and marine animals from the 

 coast of Labrador, together with nets, snares, hooks and spears used 

 by the natives of that country in catching these birds and animals ; 

 also a very beautiful collar and wristers of silver down, and mittens, 

 socks, and boots of seal-skin — all manufactured by the inhabitants 

 of that inhospitable clime. These specimens were exhibited by Mr. 

 S. A. Evans, of Fryeburg, and were collected by him while accom- 

 panying Prof Chadbourne of Bowdoin College, in his expedition to 

 the coast of Labrador, during the past summer. The influence of 



