334 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



The weather was delightful on both days ; but, in conse- 

 quence of the steamer running to the island being chartered 

 for government use and a packet run in its place, I did not 

 reach the fair-grounds till the second day ; consequently I had 

 not the pleasure, very much to my disappointment, of witness- 

 ing the show of cattle. 



Wednesday morning was most delightful. On my arrival 

 upon the grounds I found a large assemblage of anxious spec- 

 tators, vicing with each other to make this, what it really was, 

 the farmer's holiday. 



After an introduction to the officers of the society, I mingled 

 with the crowd who were discussing the merits and demerits of 

 the different classes of stock exhibited on the first day. All 

 were pleased with the show, and pronounced it the best they had 

 ever held. 



And I was happy to learn that the society had taken measures 

 to improve the stock upon the island, by purchasing six thor- 

 ough-bred Ayrshire bulls ; a blood of stock, I think, well 

 adapted to that locality. And I shall look forward, with fond 

 anticipations of seeing fine herds of Ayrshire stock raised on 

 the island, which will reflect great credit upon that young and 

 enterprising society. In connection with the horned cattle, 

 was the increased interest in sheep-raising and wool-growing. 



Not only the farmers, but the farmers' wives, were deeply 

 interested in the subject of wool-growing. And, in my opinion, 

 there is not any branch of farming that will pay better, and 

 improve their plain lands faster, than stocking them with sheep. 

 And I hope yet to see those almost barren plains converted into 

 rich and luxuriant fields. 



Of sheep there were twelve entries, more than some of our 

 older and larger societies can report. 



The show of horses was respectable, though not large. 



Entries of all classes and ages were eighteen. 



Of the swine I have nothing to say. Entry, one. 



The ploughing match was well attended ; the ploughman 

 displaying a good degree of skill in holding the plough, also in 

 managing his team. 



And here I take the liberty to recommend to the farmers of 

 the island, the use of the " swivel plough," manufactured by 

 the Messrs. Ames, of Boston. 



