SULTAN FOWLS. 219 



however, very greatly in appearance. Their legs are very 

 short, and feathered to the toes ; the thighs being also 

 abundantly furnished, and vulture-hocked. They are like- 

 wise amply muffled and whiskered round the throat, and 

 the tail of the cock is remarkably full and flowing. The 

 crest differs from that of most other Polish, being more 

 erect, and not hiding the eyes. The comb consists of two 

 spikes in front of the crest. The legs are whitish, and 

 when first imported and shown had the fifth toe of the 

 Dorking, but of late this feature is uncertain, and seems left 

 an open question. At one time Sultans were even shown 

 without beards, but in this case judging has returned again 

 to the earlier standard. 



There is a breed known as Ptarmigans, which is 

 evidently a degenerate descendant from some former im- 

 portation of Sultans. 



Some special precautions are necessary in rearing Polish 

 chickens. The prominence in the skull which supports 

 the crest, is never completely covered with bone, and is 

 peculiarly sensitive to injury. On this account Cochins, or 

 other large heavy hens should never be employed as 

 mothers. A Game hen will be the best. The young also 

 fledge early and rapidly, and usually suffer severely in the 

 process ; they therefore require an ample allowance of the 

 most stimulating food, such as worms, meat, and in bad 

 weather bread steeped in ale. Above all, they must be 

 kept dry. 



Polish fowls have certainly solid merits. They improve 

 in appearance, at least up to the third year. In a favourable 

 locality they are most prolific layers, never wanting to 

 sit, and the flesh is remarkably good. They appear also 

 peculiarly susceptible of attachment to their feeders. And 

 lastly, they suffer remarkably little in appearance or con- 

 dition from exhibition or confinement. Their great fault is 



