698 MASS. BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. 



the Housatonic, with a fine, healthy atmosphere, and the 

 thousands who had gathered around the lands struck out for 

 the match on the meadow of Mr. E. Pope, surpassed anything 

 I have seen in Southern Berkshire. 



Thirteen horse and five ox teams entered the field and took 

 their lands, one-fourth of an acre each, (the assigned depth of 

 furrow was six inches, and width twelve,) to compete for the 

 prizes, without drivers. 



These lands, though alluvial, were hard to break with the 

 plough, being very dry, and having a strong sward ; yet the 

 work was done admirably well, and in time, which was one 

 hour, including ten minutes rest. 



The spirit and skill of the ploughmen, together with their 

 well-trained teams, interested the large gathering of ladies and 

 gentlemen for one hour, after which they formed a procession, 

 and marched to the Congregational Church, where they listened 

 to an Address delivered by G. P. R. James, Esq., which was 

 interesting, though not practical. 



The house was filled, and a large crowd assembled near the 

 speaker's stand, which was at the window of the church. 



The reports were then read, and premiums delivered in silver 

 plate. I think this is as it should be, only that the plate 

 should bear the initials of the society. 



The dinner, prepared by Mr. A. F. Barnes, of the Berkshire 

 House, was good. 



Seldom have I seen as large a gathering, with so little dissi- 

 pation or disorder. 



J. R. LAWTON. 



MR. WALKER'S REPORT. 



EXHIBITION OF THE NORFOLK SOCIETY. 



In compliance with instructions received from this. Board, 

 the undersigned attended the Annual Fair of the Norfolk Agri- 

 cultural Society, held at Dedham, on the 28th and 29th of 

 September last. 



The first day was occupied with the necessary preparations 



