ABERDEEN TO THE SHETLANDS. 19 



Still, the difficulties and expense of obtaining 

 and upholding a pure Cheviot flock in Shet- 

 land are very considerable. The moist climate, 

 undrained pastures, want of enclosures, and conse- 

 quent lack of shelter induce braxy to a great extent, 

 and hence the flockmasters are anxious to part with 

 their lambs at any price, rather than lose them alto- 

 gether in the winter. The consequence is that, with 

 few exceptions, the Shetland sheep stocks are 

 of a very mixed character. Tenants are decidedly 

 anxious and willing, but their aspirations are very 

 much in advance of the encouragement given by the 

 proprietors. 



The first cattle show was held at Lerwick in 

 August, '64. Entries came from all parts, some 

 by very indifferent and rugged roads, while others 

 had of course to be put into boats, and ferried over 

 the voes. The Highland Society gave prizes for 

 cattle of any other pure breed than Shetland, and 

 Aberdeenshire and Caithness furnished the judges. 

 In the improved cattle and sheep classes the prizes 

 were awarded almost entirely to Walker of Mary- 

 field, Bruce of Vinsgarth, and Umphray of Reawick. 

 The entries were generally pretty good ; but the pig 

 part of the show dwindled down to a <lirace of sows, 

 and a boar whose prize was withheld. The "old 

 original" cattle and ponies of Shetland mustered 

 well ; but to bring the sheep, or to ask them to stop 

 when they were there, was far beyond the power of 

 man. As well try to lot and sell by auction white 



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