DELAINE MERINOS. 195 



V. Feeding qualities. 



(1) The feeding qualities of Delaines are at least equal 

 to those of any of the Merino families, if not indeed 

 superior, but 



(2) As yet it can scarcely be said that they feed to so fine 

 a finish as the Down breeds. 



VI. Quality of the meat. 



(1) The mutton has no superior among the Merino 

 families. 



(2) The improved mutton form which they possess is 

 reflected in the excellent quality of the mutton which they 

 furnish and in the fair proportion of the dressed meat in the 

 carcass. 



VII. Value in crossing and grading. 



(1) They have special adaptation for being crossed upon 

 grade stocks where dense and fine wool is wanted and where 

 at least fair mutton qualities are to be maintained. 



(2) At the present time the Delaine cross is very popular 

 on western ranges, where the average fleece has become too 

 light and open. 



VIII. Breeding qualities. 



(1) These, it is claimed, are superior to those in the 

 American Merino, since the breeders have carefully sought 

 improvement in this direction. 



(2) The milking qualities have also shared in the 

 improvement thus secured. 



IX. Wool production. 



(1) The fleece in the matured ram well kept should 

 average in the various types about twelve to eighteen pounds 

 and in the matured ewe about nine to fifteen pounds. 



(2) The wool is fine and scours well, since the yolk in it, 

 though plentiful, is not excessive. 



(3) It should not be less than three inches in length, but 

 is usually considerably longer. 



X. Compared with American Merinos. 



(i) Delaine Merinos are considerably larger and heavier, 

 have higher adaptation for arable conditions, mature some- 

 what more quickly, make better mutton, are superior in 

 crossing for mutton production, are somewhat ahead in 

 breeding qualities and have a longer and nearly equally heavy 

 fleece of wool, which loses less in scouring. 



