THE PLOUGH. 41 



performing this operation on a large scale, in 

 the most expeditious and successful manner. 

 Spade husbandry, as it is called, does as well, 

 perhaps better, where it can be accomplished ; 

 but millions of acres cannot thus be tilled. 



In order, therefore, to move as much soil in 

 as little time as possible, the plough was con- 

 structed. It consists of many parts; as the 

 coulter, the share and breast, the handles, rail, 

 chains, &LC. The plough-share and breast, 

 which are the principal acting parts in turning 

 over the soil, consist of a broad and smooth 

 surface of iron, having a sharp and taper toe, 

 which enters, like a wedge, and"* heaves the 

 earth off towards the right side. The coulter 

 is a sort of knife, which is placed before the 

 share, to cut the ground and detach the por- 

 tion ready for it there. The engraving repre- 

 sents one of the common sort. 

 D 



