BREEDING PRIZE STOCK* 149 



in many breeds, and most of all Game, if a cock be taken 

 away the rest of the batch will be still fertile, and there are 

 many recorded results showing that in some sense a chick 

 may have two fathers, or owe certain points or traces of 

 points to each. It is not certain that the effects of a first 

 foreign cross are ever quite obliterated. Practically, how- 

 ever, after six days the eggs may in most cases be depended 

 upon as bred by the last mate. 



As eggs are often purchased for hatching, it is necessary 

 to allude to the frequent disappointments experienced in 

 this respect, and which are far too frequently attributed, in 

 no measured terms, to fraud on the part of the seller. Such 

 fraud may be occasionally practised. We knew of one case 

 where the fact was put beyond a doubt by examination, 

 proving that the eggs purchased from a well-known 

 exhibiter were actually boiled; but the great majority of 

 breeders would scorn such proceedings. It should be 

 remembered, in the first place, that highly-bred birds are 

 seldom so prolific- as more ordinary stock, and are generally 

 too fat for full health and vigour. Too many eggs the full 

 dozen are likewise very often set at seasons when the hen 

 cannot give them heat enough; so that all get chilled in 

 turn, and disappointment ensues. Bad packing also causes 

 its share of failures ; and, lastly, eggs are sometimes kept a 

 week or fortnight after receipt before setting, which is 

 always, but especially after a railway journey, most in- 

 jurious. We can only recommend i. That a hen be 

 ready for the eggs before they are ordered. 2. That they 

 be procured from a breeder of known honour and probity. 

 3. That especial directions be given that they are well 

 packed. 4. That they be "rested" about twenty-four hours 

 after arrival, but then placed with no more delay under the 

 hen. And 5. That in cold weather the eggs be divided, so 

 as not to exceed the number stated under each hen, if hens 



