54 PET RABBITS, CAV1ES, AND MICE. 



THE BLUE IHPERIAL. 



Since last we wrote upon this variety a little head- 

 way has been made in popularising them. It is only 

 rarely, however, that they are met with in the show pen, 

 and there were not above three exhibitors in competition 

 at the Crystal Palace show in 1907. Only recently we 

 were talking to an old fancier, and he said " I know 

 how Imperials are got!" but when he was asked to 

 explain, he declined, as if he had been asked to part 

 with so much gold dust. The origin remains a secret 

 so far as the general run of fanciers are concerned, 

 although there has been some speculation and a few 

 opinions hazarded. If the rabbit had become popular 

 that is, if it had " caught on " at its first introduction, 

 there might have been experiments and persistent 

 enquiry, but it has not been so. By the vast bulk of 

 fanciers the Imperial has been looked upon simply as 

 an ordinary blue rabbit, has found little favour, and 

 consequently has made but little headway. Colour is 

 one of the chief points for consideration advanced by 

 the originator. This should be an even dark blue all 

 through, and in shape the rabbit should favour the 

 Belgian hare somewhat, save for raciness. In weight 

 it should not exceed 7 Ibs., should have erect ears, not 

 more than 5 inches long, deep blue eyes, and a soft and 

 bright coat, not too short. Miss Mabel Illingworth, of 

 Cambridge, is the originator of the Imperials, and clings 

 with true womanly tenacity to the secret of her pets' 

 antecedents. We are able to say that Miss Illingworth 

 is as enthusiastic as ever over the ultimate success of 

 the variety; and if ever anyone deserved success, this 

 lady does, for her perseverance in face of little but 

 discouragement. We give the standard of excellence as 

 published by the originator: 



Points. 



Shape and Size Somewhat like the Belgian Hare, 

 though not quite so racy, weight when full 

 grown, over 6 but not to exceed 7 Ibs. ... 25 



Head Long and narrow ... ... ... ... 10 



Ears Between 4 and 5 inches in length, round at 

 the tips, carried erect, and fairly close 

 together ..." ... ... ... ... 5 



