742 FRANKLIN COUNTY, OHIO. 



years no one could tell the difference between them and the 

 best of the natives. 



DEVONS. 



But not so with the Devons, which are the oldest distinct 

 breed of cattle known. The Devons will not run out by neg- 

 lect or exposure, but under all circumstances and in all cli- 

 mates, maintain their beautiful form and red color, and uni- 

 formity of appearance in every feature, shape of horns, tail, 

 etc. Their flesh is finely interspersed with alternate fat and 

 lean, and of superior flavor. The cows yield richer milk, and 

 if properly fed will produce more butter and cheese for the 

 feed consumed. Although they are not a large breed, they will 

 produce more pounds of beef for the feed consumed than other 

 animals. Steers, when properly cared for, will weigh from two 

 to three thousand pounds. They make the best work oxen we 

 have, being fast walkers, docile, and inoffensive, and not 

 inclined ^o be breechy. 



" SHEEP. 



The most profitable breed of sheep depends on the loca- 

 tion. If near a large city, the South-Downs are decidedly the 

 best. They hold the same relation to the sheep family that the 

 Devons do to cattle. They will do well on short pasture, attain 

 early maturity, and are hardy and prolific ; they are not long- 

 lived sheep, like the Merinos, but are in their prime at three ; for 

 mutton they are superior to all other sheep. I sold my lambs 

 last July and August, weighing from forty to seventy-five 

 pounds, at two dollars and a half per head. When well kept 

 and cared for, they will average five pounds of combing wool, 

 bringing the highest price. They, like the Devon cattle, tran- 

 smit their blood in the strongest degree. Wethers, at three 

 years, will weigh two hundred to three hundred and fifty 

 pounds, and are more easily fattened than "Merinos. But for 

 wool, the Merinos are the most profitable, as they will herd 

 better than any other sheep. 



If I raised but one kind of stock, it would be sheep ; they 



