46 POSSIBLE DEVELOPMENTS 



of land that is ordinarily rented at 20s. an acre or a 

 little less, we may expect that at the outset about one- 

 half can be worked as arable land, and that three men 

 can be employed per 100 acres or 150 in all, exclusive of 

 the staff required for management. The actual number 

 that can be profitably occupied will depend upon the 

 quality of the land; but it would be wise to begin 

 quietly, without any large departure from the system 

 of farming previously followed, and to intensify the 

 agriculture by degrees. A living wage must be paid ; 

 this may be taken at an average of 20s. per week with a 

 free cottage and garden, equivalent to 25s. a week in 

 cash. Allowing for boys and old men among the 

 employees, this average rate of 20s. would permit of a 

 higher wage for a certain proportion of foremen ; the 

 total annual labour bill for 150 men would come to 

 £7,800. It may be expected that the estate will be in- 

 sufficiently provided with cottages ; if fifty additional 

 cottages have to be erected at an average cost of £200 

 each, the business will have to bear an annual charge of 

 £600, allowing 6 per cent, for interest and repairs. The 

 expenses of management may be estimated at about 

 £3,000, made up as follows : 



One general manager charged with the 



direction and the buying and selling . . £800 — £1,000 

 Four assistant managers, each overseeing 



a section of the estate £800 — £1,000 



One machinery manager and two skilled 



mechanics £400— £450 



Book-keeper and two clerks .. .. £300 — £350 

 Travelling, stationery, etc £350 



£2,650 — £3150 



