~ 19 — 



1 hfi want of Oysters, but the prepai'ation or selection of suita* 

 ble places for their development and free growth when once 

 cast free from the parent's shell. Broken tiles and crockery 

 are considered good]to lay down, as the " spat ", when once at- 

 tached, then grows flat over the surface and is easier removed 

 afterwards. It appears to me the chief thing to be done is to 

 arrange suitable spots where Brood oysters may be put down, 

 care being taken that the spot selected has not too great a tide 

 and that there be a sufficient supply of suitable material for the 

 *' spat " to become attached to, which may be easily taken up 

 when the Oyster has become fit for food. 



" At home old Oyster shells are considered a very good at- 

 tachment, but there they are flat, whereas here, from the 

 *' spat " being carried by the current or tides or swimming 

 against the porous rocks and boulders, enter the holes and ir- 

 regulaties covering the surface, become attached and so deve- 

 lop in irregular forms, difficult to detach, and more difficult to 

 open when detached. 



" The Report referred to has been written for, and I hope 

 before long to have other information on this interesting and 

 useful subject, meantime I hope some of the members will 

 examine the cosat and determine which of our rivers is best 

 adapted for the growth and cultivation of Oysters " according 

 to the conditions named by Mr Saunders care being taken to 

 avoid the effects of foods!, and the soil carried down, washing 

 away or burying'the young " brood ". 



" Your's very truly, 



" C. E. Bewshee. 



" P. S. — We must not forget that our Oyster season is the 

 (ippusite to that of England. " 



" a E. B. " 



