219 



The school of Saint-Giklas-de-Bois, located near a reclaimed marshy 

 and owEing a great variety of soils, has introduced several processes of 

 culture hitherto unknown in that part of the country. It has a large 

 capital, but its investment includes the manufacture of agricultural im- 

 plements. Special attention is given to the crossing of native sheep 

 with imported stock. The school of Saut Gautier is struggling with 

 financial difficulties springing out of previous disasters, especially dur- 

 ing the late war. It has been reconstituted, and is now aided by de- 

 partmental subsidies. The school of La Pilletiere replaces that of 

 Chauviniere, suppressed by ministerial decree October 10, 1872. Special 

 rotations and systems of culture are adapted to different kinds of soil. 

 In 1871 the school obtained the grand gold medal for the introduction 

 of superior agricultural machinery and irrigation. The council-general 

 of Sarthe pays $25 per annum for each pupil. 



Sixteen departments in the extreme soutbeast contain nine schools, 

 which are thus reported by Inspector-General Du Fretay. 



The school of Moutaurone, formerly a model farm, has 90 acres of vine- 

 yard, which suffered severelj'^ from the phylloxera. A fine plantation of 

 12 acres of olives was severely injured by frost in the winter of 1871- 

 '72. The school devotes its level land to grass, forage, fruit, vegetable, 

 and flower crops, and to vineyard ; its undulating lands are planted in 

 olives, almonds, and evergreen trees. The mud and offal of the neigh- 

 boring city of Grasse is utilized by the school of Saint-Donat-la- 

 Paoute. A manufactory of perfumes has been established. The 

 school of Germainville has reclaimed its farm from a swamp. Viti- 

 culture is the leading pursuit. The school of Besplas devotes two- 

 thirds of its acreage to forage-plants. The school of Nolhac has 

 been famous for good culture, and has sent out many distinguished, 

 grad tes. Of late years the ill-health of the director has some- 

 what crippled its operations. The school of Eecoulettes is criticised 

 for having i^ushed the culture of sainfoin to too great an extent. 

 The school of Berthaud contends with great difficulties, growing out of 

 insufficient capital. It cultivates almonds, olives, and vines. The school 

 of La Batie is highly complimented for extensive improvements, excel- 

 lent methods, and satisfactory crops. A gold medal was awarded the 

 director. The school of Paillerols presents the greatest variety of cul- 

 ture in the southern region. Its level plain is irrigated and subjected to 



