296 MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE. 



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exhibited by Mr. Warren, which were a cross between the 

 Brahma-poutre and Bolton Grey, and began to lay when four 

 and a half months old ! 



With such facts as these, — and from what we know of these 

 gentlemen we believe them to be facts, — we cannot but except 

 the variety of the so-called "Brahma-poutres" from the sweep- 

 ing condemnation so usually applied to the whole race of 

 Eastern breeds of late introduction. These Brahma-poutres, 

 one of the most reliable breeders of which is Daniel Buxton, Jr., 

 of Danvers, are a handsomer fowl than most of the larger sorts. 

 From personal experience of this variety we are persuaded that 

 though in common with all their race they are heartier eaters 

 than our common fowls, yet as they may be raised on coarser 

 food, the final cost will be but little additional. They are no 

 great scratchers, and but little inclined to wander. We would 

 not be understood to recommend this variety in preference to 

 the other above mentioned breeds ; indeed, were we to raise a 

 single variety, we should prefer others to them which had finer 

 flesh and smaller bones ; but among a number of varieties, this 

 deserves a place. 



One word to those who have pure stock in their possession. 

 Do not so far yield to the temptation of cross-breeding, as to 

 lose your original pure stock ; for remember that a cross breed, 

 however desirable it may prove, cannot be relied upon to 

 renew itself until bred distinct for many generations ; while 

 with the original stock, with the particular crosses made, 

 you have material in your hands to produce the like at your 

 fancy. 



James J. H. Gregory, Chairman. 



MIDDLESEX SOUTH. 



Statement of J. H. Temple. 

 The undersigned submits the following statement: The 

 " Plymouth Rock " fowls which I offer for premium, are a fair 

 sample of my flock of thirty — twenty-eight hens and two 

 roosters. These fowls have a free range over the grounds 

 adjacent to my farm buildings ; and in the summer pick up the 

 largest share of their living. For eight months in the year I 

 feed them, on an average, one quart of corn per day — in the 



