36 FRENCH MARKET-GARDENING 



next the man are slightly lower than those at the 



ends (see fig. 5). 



The cloche carrier is only used for long distances. 



For a short distance a man can easily carry three 



cloches in each hand by inserting a finger between 



them. 



When the cloches are not in use they are stacked 



away carefully in piles of any number up to ten. 



Five, however, is a safer number, as shown in fig. 6. 



Formerly wisps of straw, hay, or litter were placed 

 between them to prevent breakages. 

 It was found, however, that if the 

 straw became wet the cloches were 

 liable to crack. Now they are placed 

 on firm ground on which some straw 

 or litter has been spread. A small 

 square piece of wood or block, as 



FIG. 6-CLocHEs shown in the fi ure > is P ut on the 



STACKED UP top of the first cloche before the 



WHEN NOT IN second is placed on it. This prevents 



one cloche touching the other, and if 



the work is done properly the upper cloche will turn 



round easily on the lower. It is hardly necessary to 



say that the cloches are placed in positions sheltered 



from strong winds, otherwise an unexpected hurricane 



might do considerable damage. The stacks of cloches 



are placed in rows alternating with each other, and 



as a protection against sudden hailstorms in summer 



they are covered with straw or old mats. During the 



winter months it is never wise to place the cloches on 



their side when not in use, as the side touching the 



ground is likely to drop out if surprised by a hard 



frost, and especially if there is any water inside. 



