136 BLACK SPANISH JTOVVLS. 



with four toes on each foot ; their combs are uncommonly high, deeply 

 serrated, and of a very brilliant red, almost bordering on a scarlet ; 

 their wattles are very long, and of the same color ; their ear lobes are 

 of a pearly whiteness, contrasting very favorably with the plumage 

 of the bird, which stands very erect, thereby making a very imposing 

 appearance in the poultry yard. Some might suppose, as these birds 

 have leaden-colored legs, their flesh would look blue, but instead of 

 that, it is very white and delicate. My old hen commonly lays from 

 thirty to sixty eggs to a litter, and then is inclined to incubate, but on 

 being broken up, soon commences again ; or if set, she is a good 

 sitter and most excellent nurse. 



The eggs of these fowls are very large and highly flavored. I have 

 a pullet of this breed, raised last year, which commenced laying in 

 February last, and has never wanted to set, bi>t has layed almost con- 

 stantly, and is still laying. The cocks of this breed, besides being 

 very beautiful, are also very peaceable. I rarely ever saw two of 

 them fighting together, but when insulted by other fowls, they can 

 and will fight, with courage truly commendable. I have seen a single 

 cock of this breed whip five full grown turkeys, en masse. 



Above you have my honest, impartial views concerning the Black 

 Spanish fowls. I live with a mind open to conviction. If any one 

 can convince me that there is a breed of fowls superior to these for 

 the purposes above stated, I will certainly try them. I would also 

 add, the above breed of fowls are very hardy and easy to keep. 



Yours truly, JOHN DIMON. 



