22 BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



But perhaps it would give a broader view of the vast pecuni- 

 ary importance of the subject to refer to a few statistics which 

 have just come into my hands, in accordance with a resolve of 

 the last legislature, requiring me to obtain replies from all the 

 towns in this Commonwealth to the following questions, directed 

 to the selectmen of towns, and the mayor and aldermen of cities : 



First. — Wliat is the number of miles of public highway within 

 the limits of your city or town ? 



Second. — What has been the amount expended by your city or 

 town for the repairs of higliways ? Average for the last five years 

 and exclusive of amount paid for breaking out roads in winter ? 



Third. — What is the number of surveyors of highways in your 

 city or town ? 



Fourth. — What the kind of material used in covering and re- 

 pairing roads ? 



Fifth. — What number and kind of bridges are supported wholly 

 or in part by the city or town? 



Sixth. — Are the road taxes paid in money or labor ? 



Seventh. — How much has the city or town paid during the last 

 five years for damages or legal defence in consequence of alleged 

 defects in the roads ? 



