APPENDIX. ix 



Appearances above the horizon foreboded a storm, but ere the even- 

 ing passed, the indications were that the morrow would be pleasant. 



Being ushered upon the grounds at an early hour by mine host, 

 I could but congratulate the association on their convenient and 

 commodious enclosure, with the accompanying magnificent build- 

 ings, suitably arranged for dinner-hall, exhibition-hall, business and 

 private rooms, with a basement for storage and livery. A little 

 past nine o'clock, the appearance of the Worcester band of music, 

 prompted the ploughing match to time, and the way those bright- 

 eyed Devons and Ayrshires right-about-faced, and sped the plough, 

 was a compliment to them and their teamsters ; so much so, that I 

 almost coveted the privilege of living near the Worcester fair 

 grounds, that I might have an acre or two ploughed in the time 

 and style in which that was. Sixteen pairs of oxen and four of 

 horses engaged in the match. 



There were several very fine herds of Jerseys, Ayrshires and 

 Devons, numbering from ten to thirty head each, with but a small 

 sprinkling of Durhams and one pair of grades from Worcester, 

 said to weigh 6,000 pounds. There were about 275 head in all ; 

 There was a creditable, but not large show of sheep and swine ; 

 about thirty entries of poultry, with some very fine specimens ; 

 and a liberal display of mechanical and agricultural implements 

 with their patents improved. 



Master Charles Russell's 207 pound squash from Leicester, the 

 champion marrowfat of New England, claimed attention ; it was 

 only a " grade " — what a marvel would such an agriculturist be pro- 

 ducing a thoroughbred ! 



In the hall were a feAV nice specimens of cheese and butter, such 

 as our Barre friend produces. 



The quality of fruits and vegetables was fine ; quantity rather 

 meager for this locality. Some fine specimens of household manu- 

 factures were exhibited ; also specimens of embroidery and flowers, 

 carriage upholstery, &c. 



At two o'clock dinner was announced ; about three hundred sat 

 down to a bountiful repast, prepared in a style well befitting the 

 occasion. After dinner the audience listened to the address of our 

 friend, Dr. Loring, with that attention and pleasure which is wont 

 to accompany his oratory. With a little filling in of remarks from 

 several gentlemen, and a little manoeuvring of horses, the exer- 

 cises of the first day were closed. 



Agreeable to invitation, I accompanied mine host and his lady 

 to the horticultural fair at Mechanics' Hall in the evening. The 

 exhibition of vegetables, fruits and flowers here was abundant, and 



