xxvi REPORTS OF DELEGATES. 



passed upon the herd. Other herds might be mentioned as worthy 

 of notice. In most of them, the grade Durhams seemed to predom- 

 inate. There was also some good native stock scattered among the 

 improved breeds. The display of oxen was not very large, but with 

 some twenty entries of steers for premiums as workers, the prospect 

 for the future is good for a better displa}- . 



One unusual feature appeared in the entries for ploughing, as there 

 were but four contestants with oxen to eight with horses. We trust 

 this is an indication of the better appreciation of the horse as a 

 working animal on our farms, and the beginning of an era which 

 will demand a breed of horses with docilit}', strength and the neces- 

 sary activity for the various duties of our farms. 



The skill in ploughing showed the most commendable care on the 

 part of the farmers, as the ground was somewhat difficult to plough 

 well with such numbers of cobble-stones under the sod. 

 . "We were also pleased, as at other shows in the State, to see the 

 perfection of training exhibited b}' cattle, where the proper time and 

 skill had been bestowed. Undoubtedly there is a difference of in- 

 telligence manifested b}' different pairs of oxen ; but we see no rea- 

 son wh}', with a very little more time spent in breaking the steers, 

 the most of our working-cattle may not show the same proficiencj'. 

 We only regret that for the want of that training, so man}' awkward 

 and patience-trying oxen must be used. Kindness, preseverance, 

 patience and good temper, — virtues cultivated in breaking steers, — 

 would benefit both man and beast, making well-trained and intelli- 

 gent oxen the rule, and not as now, the rare exceptions. Looking 

 to this end, we most heartily rejoice in this part of our cattle-shows 

 now so common. 



The exhibition in the hall was in some respects quite fine. We 

 were glad to find such excellent butter and cheese, and in sufficient 

 quantity to show the dair}' still occupied a high place in the estima- 

 tion of the farmers and their wives. The vegetables and cereals 

 were also there in full measure. The secretarj'^ remarked as an 

 evidence of increased interest on the part of the people, that there 

 were seventy-seven exhil:»itors of vegetables this 3'ear, against 

 twent3'-seven last year. The qualit}- showed, also, that the farmers 

 of this vicinity are fully alive to the best varieties, and are skilled 

 in the production of them. 



Pears and apples were scarce, grapes more abundant, and native 

 wines of various vintages and qualities claimed more than a passing 

 notice from committee and spectators. Fancy articles were there 

 also in abundance. We find in all these exhibitions, that the women 

 are ever ready to contribute their share of labor to keep up the 

 interest in all these institutions. 



