ON THE ILL EFFECTS OF MANURES. 77 



blood, determines morbific matter to the surface, relieves con- 

 gestions, and is a substitute for exercise. Without a clean 

 skin no horse can be expected to have a fine coat. 



In fair weather the horse should be cleaned in the open 

 air, and not in the stable ; a brush, or a wisp of straw, is the 

 most beneficial and effective. The currycomb, when im- 

 moderately used, is decidedly injurious. 



Neatness is always requisite in stables, and in that case the 

 appearance is more healthy and comfortable. Every article 

 should be hung or laid in its proper place. 



We cannot close this subject without referring to the evil 

 practice of allowing the manure to accumulate under the 

 stable floor : how long this practice will be continued remains 

 to be seen. The subject of ventilation is but just in its 

 infancy; many have yet to learn, that the very existence of 

 their animals depends on a proper supply of pure, uncontami- 

 nated atmospheric air : when they are convinced of this 

 fact, and not till then, do we expect a reformation. The 

 litter and dung should be removed into the open air; nothing 

 is lost by taking away that which is bad or unwholesome. 



ON THE ILL EFFECTS OF MANURES 



OF LARGE CITIES ON THE QUALITIES OF PLANTS. 



Dr. Whitlaw observes, " Among the fertilizers of the soil, 

 high importance is attached, and deservedly, to that mass of 

 matter which results from the process of putrefaction upon 

 organic substances undergoing corruption after death. By 

 reason of its efficacy, it is assiduously procured to fertilize 

 poor soils, to renovate exhausted ones, and prevent good ones 

 from wearing out. Animal manures have a peculiar rankness ; 

 some of them stimulate, or, it may almost be said, cauterize 

 with vehemence. Hence they require admixture of milder 

 materials to mitigate their force. Yet after this offal and 



