THE WHEAT CTJLTTJRIST. 381 



as the tines stick in the sheaf, and require more of an 

 effort to withdraw them than if they were straighter, 

 or not so much curved. 



Another thing is, always thrust the fork into the 

 sheaf astride of the band, unless the band be loose, and 

 near one end of the sheaf. Beginners should be in- 

 structed how to take up a sheaf with a fork, and how to 

 give it a skilful turn while it is on the fork, so that it 

 will land in the most desirable position. An active 

 boy of only ordinary strength, if he have skill 3 will 

 pitch sheaves more satisfactorily than a strong, but 

 awkward man. 



In order to pitch off a load of sheaves easily, the 

 pitcher should take them up in the reversed order in 

 which they were laid down, as the sides frequently over- 

 lap each other. These suggestions, it is hoped, will be 

 sufficient to enable beginners to aim to perform the task 

 of pitching with a good degree of skill. 



How TO LOAD SHEAVES OF WHEAT. 



When building a load of sheaves on a wagon or cart, 

 there are several points to be kept in mind by the load- 

 er; among which are carrying up the sides uniformly, 

 so that the load will ride safely to the barn or stack, and 

 placing the sheaves in such a manner that the load may 

 be pitched off with facility, carrying all the loose grain 

 with the sheaves. Loading sheaves, so as to save even 

 only a quart or more of the best of wheat at every load, 

 is an item of importance, when the grain is worth three 

 dollars or more per bushel. The first sheaves, when 

 making a load, should not be thrown hap-hazard into 

 the rigging, unless the bottom and sides are grain-tight. 



