APPENDIX. xliii 



Of manufactures there was a good display, representing the 

 industries of the region round about, while of fancy and useful 

 articles, contributed b}' the ladies, there seemed to be no end. 



In addition to the attractions we have noted, there was a spading- 

 match, a trial of fire-engines, as well as good music by the Germania 

 and other bands. 



On the second day there was a dinner in the upper hall, and it 

 was just such a good dinner as one alwa3's gets at Hinghara, and 

 just such a dinner as one does not always get at other cattle-shows. 



After the dinner, excellent speeches were made by the president 

 of the Society, Governor "Washburn, Judge Russell and others. 



We shall ever regard our visit to this Society as among the most 

 pleasant of our official duties. 



In conclusion, we desire to sa}', that we think the Hingham 



Society make a good use of the state bounty, and are full}' entitled 



to receive it. 



James F. C. Hyde. 



BRISTOL COUNTY. 



We had the pleasure, as delegate of this Board, of attending the 

 annual exhibition of this Society, held at Taunton, September 30th, 

 and October 1st and 2d, 1873. 



The Society's grounds, comprising sevent}^ acres, inclosed by a 

 substantial fence, contain a fine hall, stables, sheds and pens, very 

 suitable for the convenience of exhibitors and the welfare of the 

 stock. Systematic arrangement of neat-stock was not observed, 

 rendering examination more difficult. 



The track, — perhaps it ma}- now be called the safety-valve of the 

 Society, — is excellent, and the judges' stand, as an r rchitectural 

 structure, cannot well be surpassed. In fact, the grounds and 

 buildings seem to be replete with all the conveniences necessary 

 for a successful fair. 



The Society has long been favored with the persevering efforts of 

 energetic officers. Upon entering the grounds, we were struck with 

 the beautiful grove of trees, evidently planted by the hand of nature, 

 but well kept and made attractive b}^ the good taste of those having 

 it in charge, and we were led to the thought that here was a Society, 

 by its example, contributing to the welfare of both man and beast ; 

 here youth can enjoy their sports, and age repose beneath the over- 

 shadowing influences of trees which contribute cheap comforts alike 

 to all, and draw them into irresistible companionship with nature. 

 Groves of trees on the grounds of societies, by their influence, will 



