304 [Senate 



3. We are not yet able to answer this question satisfactorily, perhaps 

 75 to 100 pounds. 



4. We have, including water power, building, machinery, 6cc., &c., 

 about $4,000. 



5. We have, as occasion requires, from 5 to 8 males, females, and 

 children. 



6. We are of the opinion fully, that American raw silk well reeled, is 

 equal if not superior to most foreign silk. 



7. We think silk made from the multicaulis better than any of the 

 other varieties. 



8. We think the present tariff should be increased and continue a few 

 years at least. 



9. We think, if properly protected by government, the silk enterprise 

 is entirely feasible, strict economy being observed. 



I am glad to find so warm an interest now manifested on the silk 

 subject. I am very desirous to hear something about French's Knit- 

 ting Loom. I have seen it very highly spoken of in the New- York 

 Tribune. I think one of them would be a useful acquisition to our silk 

 establishment if it merits one-half that is said about it. I think such a 

 machine would be useful in working up the more inferior quality of silk 

 as well as the best. The people here are turning their attention to the 

 silk subject in earnest. I think our city and vicinity have raised 12 to 

 1,500 lbs. of cocoons this season. AH were not successful owing to bad 

 stock, but we are prepared with the best kinds for next year. I should 

 admire to be with you in convention, if it were possible. 



Capt. Joseph Conant, JVorfhamptoyij Mass. — Your favor is before 

 me. Pressing avocations leave me time, at present, only to answer 

 your queries very briefly. 



(1.) Your first question — How long have you been acquainted 

 with growing silk'? I answer, that I was born in Mansfield, Conn., 

 and have been more or less actively engaged in the business nearly 

 46 years. 



(2.) As to buildings, I have fed in about everything bearing the 

 name — barns, corn-houses, and other open buildings, with usual good 

 success. But I have no records and can give no statistics. 



(3.) Have never fed in a shed or tent, so called, but have done what 

 amounts to the same thing, and beyond all doubt, this is the true sys- 

 tem. The pure air of heaven is indispensable, and the feeder can get 

 it in any way he pleases, but get it he must. 



(4.) I have generally used the large sulphur worm, but recently 

 the peanut, which I prefer. 



(5.) As to trees. 1 have generally used the white mulberry — the 

 only kind known in Mansfield or the country, during the years in 

 which I did the most feeding. 



(6.) Prefer early feeding decidely. 



(7.) The causes of bad success are several — bad eggs, or good eggs 

 badly managed, insufficient or unsuitable food, &c. But the one great 

 cause has been inadequate ventilation. 



