HEREFORD OXEN. 41 



the best oxen are not produced from the largest cows ; 

 nor is a superior quality of flesh, such as is considered 



Fig. 10. Hereford Bull. 



very soft to the touch, with thin skin. It is the union 

 of these two qualities which often characterizes the 

 short-horns ; but the Hereford breeders should endeavor 

 to maintain a higher standard of excellence, that for 

 which the best of the breed have always been esteemed, 

 a moderately thick, mellow hide, with a well-appor- 

 tioned combination of softness with elasticity. A suffi- 

 ciency of hair is.also desirable, and if accompanied with 

 a disposition to curl moderately it is more in esteem : 

 but that which has a harsh and wiry feel is objection- 

 able." 



In point of symmetry and beauty of form, the well- 

 bred Herefords may be classed with the improved short- 

 horns, though they arrive somewhat slower at maturity, 

 and never attain such weight. Like the improved short- 

 horns, they are chiefly bred for beef, and their beef is 

 of the best quality in the English markets, command- 

 ing the highest price of any, except, perhaps, the West 

 Highlanders. 



4* 



