SOUTHDOWN SHEEP. 331 



sheep were noticeable for greater size than the denizens of the 

 downs — a natural consequence of physical influences. He 

 farmed largely, and his flock was sufficiently numerous, and 

 sufficiently diverse in its origin, to allow of selection without 

 close affinity. We advance this remark, because formerly some 

 believed stock could not be bred from too close affinities — an 

 error which closer investigation as to the practices of eminent 

 authorities would remove. We used to hear the admirers of 

 certain families of Shorthorns, for example, deprecating the 

 introduction of a strain of foreign blood, which probably has 

 saved the line from wearing out; and, judging from all that 

 we know, we venture to say that, even in the case of a large 

 flock like the Babraham, which would long yield sires of remote 

 consanguinity, the time would come when but for fresh blood 

 vigour would cease. Mr. Webb first exhibited at the meeting of 

 the Royal at Cambridge, taking both prizes for ewes. After- 

 wards he showed only rams, finding that the forcing requisite 

 to prepare the females for successful exhibition seriously injured 

 breeding properties. On one occasion, we do not remember at 

 which meeting, every animal drawn out by the judges from which 

 the final selections were to be made belonged to Mr. Webb, so 

 that he carried everything before him. He was in the habit of 

 letting his rams by auction, the hirer having the privilege of 

 purchasing, save under special conditions, by doubling the 

 hiring figure ; very high prices were realised, especially at the 

 dispersion of his flock. 



The Dukes of Richmond have been supporters of Southdowns 

 for more than a century. In 1825 the late duke turned his 

 attention to their improvement, and purchased valuable sheep. 

 Many prizes, especially at the Smithfield Shows, were gained ; 

 but of late years the success of the flock has not been so great, 

 and for many years Lord Walsingham's name was more 

 frequently associated with the prize lists than any other breeder. 

 On the death of the late lord the flock was brought to the 

 hammer, and a fresh start made, when large prices were realised. 

 The Merton flock had a large infusion of Jonas Webb's blood ; 

 and on such a good foundation the intelligent energy of the 

 agent, Mr. Woods, and the great practical knowledge of the 

 shepherd were brought successfully to bear. The Merton sheep,. 



