MIDDLESEX SOCIETY. 117 



a reasonable space of time. Beside, the practice is a cruel one, 

 and inconsistent with that kind treatment, which the teams are 

 accustomed to receive from their drivers. It is, therefore, hoped 

 that a change will be effected in this particular, and that the 

 merit of the performance will consist in the excellence of the 

 execution of the work, the kind and easy management of the 

 team, and the brevity of the time occupied, considering the 

 manner of the performance. Some portions of the land, select- 

 ed for the trial, were rocky, and others a slight bog, checkered 

 with hassocks. These obstacles, however, made but slight im- 

 pression upon the skill of the ploughman and the steady and 

 stern power of the teams. The ploughing was performed in 

 the most skilful manner, and gave great satisfaction to the nu- 

 merous witnesses. 



The show of neat stock was meagre. The lack of interest, 

 in this department of the society, is much to be regretted. At 

 the present prices of beef, butter and milk, it would seem that 

 there may be a remunerating profit in rearing neat cattle, and 

 in the production of milk and butter. Then, there is the con- 

 sideration of the labor performed upon the farm, by the grow- 

 ing oxen, and the greatly enhanced value of good cows, since 

 the construction of railroads has increased the demand for milk, 

 and the facilities for getting to market. 



The swine presented were very fine ; of various breeds and 

 ages, and indicated that much interest is still felt in rearing a 

 sufficient number at least, for home consumption. With the 

 present cheap mode of transportation, swine may undoubtedly 

 be brought from the contiguous western states, where corn is 

 produced at one half its cost here, so as to be sold at prices 

 Avhich would prove ruinous to the farmers in this county. 

 Still, a sufficient interest remains, to induce our people to select 

 the best breeds, and rear as fine animals as can be found in the 

 country. 



It is believed that the objects of the association are gradually 

 reaching their attainment. The names of new and influential 

 members have been added to its list. Its future usefulness, 

 however, will mainly depend upon the faithfulness in which its 

 rules and regulations are observed. Heretofore there has been 



