284 MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE. 



Massachusetts, at the present time. " It is," says the Hon. Mr. 

 Allen, " the work of time to determine the true character of 

 imported animals. They are long affected by the change from 

 the milder climate of Europe to that of New England. When 

 these animals become partially acclimated, and pass from the 

 provident care and critical attention of the importers to some 

 purchasers with extravagant expectations, another trying change 

 is passed, and defects not unfrequently ascribed to the animal 

 which should be accounted for from the management. Has it 

 not been by some process like this, that the Ayrshire cows 

 have fallen into disrepute ? The points in those animals cer- 

 tainly indicate an aptitude to secrete milk. The Durham cattle 

 are pronounced by many to be too tender for this climate, but 

 with proper attention they are profitably raised for beef; and 

 crosses with this breed have given us some fine cows, and de- 

 cent working oxen — more remarkable, however, for size than 

 any other quality. The greatest benefit which has been realized 

 from imported cattle, has been realized in crosses with those 

 called native. This, if judiciously pursued, will tend to preserve 

 a healthy and thrifty race. As at present advised, I should 

 prefer to have the Devon blood predominate. Strength of con- 

 stitution to endure the rigors of the climate, and susceptibility 

 of taking on flesh with ordinary feed, are greater objects with the 

 generality of farmers, than merely size. Probably there is a 

 mixture of all the blood now found in Europe in what we call 

 native stock. Systematic crossings will, no doubt, produce the 

 most profitable race for the yoke, the dairy, and the market." 



BULLS. 



ESSEX. 



From the Report of the Committee. 



Twelve bulls were entered for premiums. Eleven only 

 were upon the ground. The Alderney bull entered by Mr. 

 Waters, was wanting. The committee were sorry that they 

 did not have an opportunity to examine this bull in com- 



