196 STATES OF THE KIVER PLATE. 



quarter, and, ultimately, to a quarter without wool ; but 

 now the majority of flock-masters decline to give any, 

 especially when the flocks are of better than average 

 quality, and when a system of refining or improvement is 

 followed ; as in such cases it is absolutely requisite for 

 the flock-master to have the full control of his stock. 

 Every year, therefore, the system of a fixed wage in cash 

 w r ill become more general. 



This is likewise, under present circumstances, more to 

 the advantage of the flock-tender than an interest in the 

 sheep. Land not being obtainable for the once nominal 

 sum, either to purchase or rent, the flock-tender who has 

 had an interest in the sheep finds that his two, three, or 

 four hundred sheep at the expiry of his contract term 

 are a clog to him, and he has perhaps no option but to 

 sell them at a sacrifice. 



On distant establishments approaching the frontier 

 lines, or large newly-formed sheep-farms, large cattle- 

 farms that are undergoing the transition process from 

 cattle to sheep (on which probably the sheep at first 

 introduced may not be of particularly good quality), with 

 ample, superabundant extent of land for the increase, 

 shares will probably be given, as it may answer both 

 parties. On such establishments, young men with small 

 capitals sufficient to purchase half a flock, would find a 

 location to their advantage. I know some establishments 

 where small ' colonies ' of young men, six, eight, or ten, 

 have settled down on adjoining 'runs,' much to their moral, 

 intellectual, and material advantage. 



Artisans of all trades, from the cobbler to the iron 

 ship and engine builder, from the tinker to the watch- 

 maker ; blacksmiths, joiners, carpenters, builders, &c. &c. 

 are much wanted, and would find immediate employment 

 at from 11. 15s. to 21. 10s. per week. 



Domestic servants, male and female, are another class 



