On Tunis Sheep. 215 



specific distinction, because the broad-tailed African 

 sheep in general, so far as my knowledge extends, are 

 much inferior to these. All I have known (except some 

 Persian sheep J with broad tails, have been an unprofitable 

 race ; though no doubt, as they occupy so great a por- 

 tion of the habitable globe, there must be, among them, 

 many valuable kinds. 



My experience and observations as to the Tiwis 

 sheep, are founded on a kjiowledge of diem for a period 

 of thirteen years. The l.)enefits arising from their propa- 

 gation have accrued, in the greatest degree, to others. 

 For it may be seen, that my advantages — except 

 in the real pleasure, and solid satisfaction I derive to 

 myself from even the partial success of my eftbrts — 

 have been small indeed. 1 see no cause to claim any 

 merit over others, on this account. Reasonable emolu- 

 ment is the just reward, of all who risk or labour in laud- 

 able pursuits. I do not aim at establishing this on the 

 depretiation of other good breeds ; being only desirous 

 that it should take its proper rank among them. 



There should be varieties of races and kinds ; to suit 

 not only local circumstances, but also different objects, 

 for which they are intended. I believe with Culley (on 

 live stock: page 153,) ''that breed is the best that 

 brings the most prolit, in jieece and carcase together^ 

 from the same ground, in equal times.'' I do not hesi- 

 tate to avow my persuasion, that the Tunis mountain 

 sheep will, in the long run, compete with any, in this 

 view of the subject. The temporary price of better 

 wool, with ail that has been said of its presumed sta- 

 bility, does not alter my opinion. Plenty or scarcity of 

 an article, and shifting demand for it, operate on price. 



