CHAP. XIII.] FARMING FOR LADIES. 269 



crosses are frequently made between them. 

 The cross is, however, a hybrid, or mongrel 

 breed, which are incapable of breeding with 

 each other ; though, if paired with any of 

 the common species, they will produce a good 

 stock. 



The domesticated duck sits during the 

 same time as that of the wild species, but 

 is not so assiduous a nurse as the goose. 

 She, however, lays more eggs ; though it 

 must be admitted that they are of only half 

 the size, and equally strong in flavour ; but 

 they are held in good repute for pastry ; and 

 we can aver, that their mixture with those 

 of the hen improves the flavour and lightness 

 of that homely, though delicate dish — an 

 omelet. The eggs, it may be observed, are 

 not always of the same colour ; for although 

 generally of a blueish tinge, some ducks lay 

 them speckled ; and it is said that if different 

 sorts are put into the same nest, the duck 

 will throw out those which do not belong to 

 her. Although we doubt the fact, yet it may 

 be as well to keep them separate. 



The duck is very careless in the lay- 

 ing of her eggs, which she deposits, when 



