Merino Shekp Industry. 199 



MERINO SHEEP INDUSTHY- 



BY Col. E. S. STOWELL.OF CORNWALL. 



The time has been when one would need to apologize for 

 introducing the subject of Merino sheep, even in Vermont, 

 most noted for their impi'overa^t and culture in the United 

 States. 



But that time has passed, and the many are as anxious 

 now to hear, as they were then opposed, and I only feel to 

 apologize that I should be the one to introduce it. It 

 seems so much like advertising ray own wares that it is in 

 a measiu'c distasteful to me, and it is only through the per- 

 sistent urging of my friends and a certain sense of respon- 

 sibility, that has overcome my reluctance, do I consent to 

 do it at all. 



This industry is peculiarly subject, more than any other to 

 sudden and enormous fluctuations. The market value of 

 Merino sheep has, at different periods oftlnir history, 

 shown the most remarkable variations of any product of 

 the land. 



So much is this the case that in the minds of many 

 it lias become almost, or quite a reproach. But this should 

 not be. It is rather a commendation, for these variations, 

 these hot and cold stages (as they may be called), are result- 



