yO SWINE IN AMERICA 



A deep chest, which is wide between the forelegs, 

 indicates that the animal is probably of robust constitu- 

 tion, with plenty of lung room for deep breathing ; it also 

 signifies a hardiness that successfully resists or repels 

 the many diseases which seem to constantly lie in wait 

 for the defenseless pig. 



A not too long, slightly arched back, broad by being 

 well packed with muscle (lean meat ) on each side of the 

 spinal column, which constitutes the part known as ten- 

 derloin, tells of strength in various ways, as well as of 

 added weight. 



If the top of the rump is built backward quite level, 

 without much slant, to the setting on of the tail, not too 

 low down, and the thighs are fleshy, full and large, firm 

 rather than flabby, and well meated in the twist, with 

 the flesh spread thickly toward the hocks, it means a 

 large ham ; and it need not be said that the ham is a 

 considerable proportion of the very highest priced meat 

 in the carcass. This is an important consideration to 

 grower and butcher. 



Sides of considerable length and depth, with an even 

 underline, mean a goodly weight of meat, which, if not 

 extremely fat and thick, are the material for a high 

 quality of bacon; while, if very fat, they make much of 

 what is known as "side-meat." esteemed by those who do 

 hard labor as their most economical and palatable animal 

 food. 



Rather short, stocky legs are likely to be found on the 

 pig with the deep sides, and are much of an index to 

 the animal's general character and constitution. They 



