11 



NOTES OF CORRESPONDENTS. 



(Returned to us May 24.) 



BERKSHIRE COUNTY. 



New Marlborough (E. W. Rhoades). — Spring work opened early. 

 Mowings, both old and new seeded, came through the winter well. 

 Peach trees are blossoming very full, also plums and cherries; apple 

 bloom rather uneven. There is a large acreage of potatoes already 

 planted, and many farmers are planning to put in more corn than 

 usual. Very good farm help can now be obtained. Wages average 

 $25 per month with board and $1.50 per day and $35 per month 

 without board. There seems to be a scarcity of good young cows, 

 with a brisk demand, especially for Holsteins, and many calves of that 

 breed are being raised. Quite a number of promising colts are also 

 being raised. 



West Stockbridge (J. S. Moore). — The season is about an average 

 one. Pastures and mowings look promising, and unless the unexpected 

 happens, there will be a good hay crop. The fruit bloom is uneven, in 

 some sections full and in others none, altogether less than usual. 

 Currant worms are the only insects that have appeared. Farm help 

 is scarce, and from one-third to one-half is good help. Wages range 

 from $20 to $25 per month with board and average $1.50 per day 

 without board. There will be about the usual acreage of corn and 

 potatoes. 



Bccket (Wm. H. Snow). — The season is very cold and late, and 

 there is not much planting done yet. Grass looks well, but there are 

 some small spots winter-killed, especially fall seeding. Plums and 

 cherries are a full bloom, and the prospect for the apple bloom is good. 

 Some tent caterpillar nests are to be seen. Farm help is scarce, 

 especially those who can milk. Wages average $20 per month with 

 board and $1.50 per day without board. More oats were raised last 

 year than in previous years-, and as large or a larger acreage will be 

 sown this year. 



Washington (E. H. Eames). — The season is very backward as 

 regards planting. Fall seeding wintered well, also pastures and 

 mowings. The fruit bloom is fully up to former years. No insects are 

 doing damage at present. Planting is progressing very slowly, and is 

 only about half completed. There is no good help, and help of all 



