OXERS. 355 



When a thick hedge is merely lowered, parallel to the 

 ground, it is generally called a topped hedge (Fig. 226). 



By being lowered and trimmed, hedges present an endless 

 variety of form (Figs. 227, 228 and 229). 



The term "oxer" is applied to a hedge (usually young or cut 

 down), which is protected from the assaults of cattle by a 

 guard rail on one (Fig. 230) or both sides. A "single oxer" has 

 generally a ditch on one side, and on the other side a rail, 



Fig. 236. Double posts and rails. 



which is sometimes replaced by a wire, that is supposed to 

 be taken down at the end of October. A "double oxer" 

 (Fig. 231) requires a horse to jump big and spread himself 

 out, when going freely. Oxers are not often met with 

 probably on account of the increasing popularity and 

 strength of cut-and-laid hedges ; and because wire is some- 

 times used to protect hedges, especially in summer. 



Posts and rat/s(Figs. 232, 233 and 234), though less frequent 



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