MAIXE STATE SOCIETY. 13 



purpose of selecting Aldernays to be introduced among the cattle of 

 the State, says, "the quality of the milk is most excellent and quan- 

 tity fair, and they hold out longer, so far as I know, than any other 

 breed. The butter made from the milk of Jersey cows, will always 

 command the highest price, is of a rich gold color and fine flavor, 

 even in winter. They are daily growing in favor with our farmers 

 and milkmen." 



Your committee would add that when dry they fatten very easily 

 and make excellent beef; and are well adapted to the climate of 

 Maine. 



Of Ayrshires, there were not so many on exhibition as we 

 expected to see, judging from the popularity of the breed. 



S. L. Goodale of Saco, entered some of the handsDmest animals 

 of this breed that we have ever seen. The breed stands high 

 for milking qualities, giving a much larger quantity of milk 

 than the Jerseys, although not so rich ; are of medium size, well 

 proportioned, easily fattened and make good beef, are very hardy, 

 and will thrive on coarse feed, are of a very quiet and peaceable 

 disposition, and with an ordinary fence can be kept within an en- 

 closure without trouble. Your committee would recommend them as 

 excellent dairy cows, particularly adapted to our soil and climate. 



A cross of the Ayrshire or Jersey would very much improve our 

 stock of milk cows There are many neighborhoods and some towns 

 where you will find only our native cows, and they so much reduced 

 by a long course of "in-and-in" breeding and poor feed, that they are 

 not worth their keeping. While the imported breeds are so expen- 

 sive, would it not be well in every neighborhood to form a company 

 and purchase a bull of such breed as will suit their wants'? And 

 should we not soon see our herds improving, and our dairies increas- 

 ing in profit? 



Of Galloways, your committee have to report but two entries, 

 and those of grade animals. We do not think they will ever take 

 the place of the Jerseys or Ayrshires for dairy purposes, or of the 

 Durhams for workers. They are said to be a hardy breed, good 

 milkers, and make good beef. 



All of which is respectfully submitted, 

 Per order, 



Chas. C. G. Thornton. 



