62 THE POULTRY-BOOK. 



ideal of high blood embodying, in short, all the most indubi- 

 table characteristics of gallinaceous aristocracy. 



The game fowl is somewhat inferior in size to other breeds, 

 and in his shape he approximates more closely to the elegance 

 and lightness of form usually characteristic of a pure and uncon- 

 taminated race. Amongst poultry, he is what the Arabian is 

 amongst horses, the high-bred short-horn amongst cattle, and 

 the fleet greyhound amongst the canine race. 



The flesh of the game fowl is beautifully white, as well as 

 tender and delicate. The hens are excellent layers, and al- 

 though the eggs are somewhat under the average size, they are 

 not to be surpassed in excellence of flavor. Such being the 

 character of this variety of fowl, it would, doubtless, be much 

 more extensively cultivated than it is, were it not for the difrl-' 

 culty attending the rearing of the young; their pugnacity being 

 such, that a brood is scarcely feathered before at least one half 

 is killed or blinded by fighting." 



There are many reasons, however, why the attempt should 

 be made to rear the most desirable varieties ; and, with proper 

 care, most of the difficulties which are apprehended may be 

 avoided. It is exceedingly desirable to perpetuate the race, not 

 for the gross abuse of which mention has been made, but for 

 uses the most important and valuable. As a cross with other 

 breeds, they are invaluable, in improving the flavor of the flesh, 

 which is an invariable consequence. The plumage of all fowls 

 related to them is increased in brilliancy; they are, withal, 

 very prolific, and the eggs are always enriched. 



Four of the best varieties will now be described. 



