86 BOAED OF AGRICULTURE. 



one of those technical or conventional phrases which is very 

 expressive, and is much better understood, probably, than 

 some long or elaborate description. There are two other 

 terms frequently used in the directions upon breeding, viz. : 

 " pedigree " and " thorough-bred." These terms, as here used, 

 are very appropriate and significant. While the term " pedi- 

 gi'ee " means simply lineage, genealogy, — a list of the names 

 of ancestors, with some description of their characters, — the 

 word " thorough-bred " is more expressive, and denotes that 

 this lineage, on both sides, is composed of the best stock, 

 which has come down, as far as can be traced. As in the 

 propagation of plants the finest seeds in each successive crop 

 are culled with care, to be planted in their turn at seasons 

 and in soils favorable to their growth, so among animal tribes 

 an analogous care and treatment have chosen and scrupulously 

 nurtured the finest products of each successive generation. 



There is another point which is very important in the im- 

 provement of stock. It may be implied or included in the 

 directions already laid down; but if so, it deserves special 

 notice by itself. It is this, avoid every defect in structure, 

 function or looks, as far as it can be detected, or even sus- 

 pected. This may consist in some weakness, or some exces- 

 sive development in certain parts or organs, or in marked 

 tendencies to disease, or in external appearances detracting 

 from good looks, or indicating a depraved disposition. All 

 writers agree in saying breed only from the best stock. 

 Says Mr. Goodale, " The most perfect animals of both sexes 

 should always be selected and employed in propagation." 

 Says Mr. Sturt, "Good breeding cows should always be 

 healthy, robust and well developed in every part." Says Dr. 

 Loring, " Hannony of structure and a proper balancing of de- 

 sirable qualities are indispensable." Says Prof. Law, "The 

 animal, whether male or female, that shows the most vigorous 

 health — being neither too obese and plethoric, nor too thin 

 and weak — is likely to be the best stock-getter." One object 

 in noticing these directions and quotations is, to show wherein 

 they harmonize with the great law of propagation which we 

 advocate ; and in order to a better understanding of that law, 

 we will define it again. It consists in the perfectionism of 

 structure and harmony of function; or, in other words, that 



