13 



NOTES OF CORRESPONDENTS. 



(Returned to us May 25.) 



BERKSHIRE COUNTY. 



New Marlborough (E. W. Rhoades). — This is about a normal 

 season, except that the ground is very dry. There is very little feed 

 in pastures, and meadows are suffering from drought. Fruit trees 

 bloomed full, as did small fruits, except where winterkilled. There 

 are a few tent caterpillars and currant worms are hatching out. Plant- 

 ing is well under way, though there is still some ensilage corn to be 

 planted. Farm help is scarce, but good help can be obtained. Wages 

 average $25 per month, with board, and range from |40 upwards per 

 month, without board. The acreage of potatoes will possiblj- be 

 decreased, other farm crops about as usual. 



Tyringham (Edward H. Slater). — The present season compares 

 favorably with the normal. Pastures are getting quite dry; mowings 

 are looking very well and fall seed is in very good condition. The 

 apple bloom was rather light, but has not suffered from frosts. Very 

 little corn has been planted as yet. Farm help is scarce, and about 

 one-fourth the supply can be called good help. Wages average about 

 $23 per month, with board; and range from $1.50 to $1.75 per day 

 without board. There will be no marked change in the acreage of 

 farm crops. 



West Stockbridge (J. S. Moore). — The season is much in advance 

 of last year. Pastures and mowings are looking well at present, but 

 begin to show the effects of continued dry weather. All fruit trees 

 made full blooms, with no damage from frost. Currant worms are 

 the only insect complained of. Planting is well along and there has 

 been no rain the past week. Farm help is very scarce and good, 

 reliable help almost impossible to get. Wages range from $20 to $25 

 per month, with board, and from $1.50 to $1.75 per day, without board. 

 Oats are nicely started, but it is too early to judge of other crops, 

 though more rain would be appreciated. 



Washington (E. H. Fames). — The season is two weeks later than 

 the average. Fall seeding is in good condition; pastures and mowings 

 about average. The fruit bloom was perhaps a little better than last 

 year; no damage from frost. No insects have appeared as yet. Plant- 

 ing is progressing well. There is no good farm help and poor help is 

 very scarce. 



