[ ' 240 ] 



On Tunis Mountain Sheep — wool. 



That I may complete the account of this sheep, I 

 shall, as opportunity offers, collect and communicate 

 facts respecting the wool: but, I fear, too few have suffi- 

 ciently attended to it ; the mutton having been the prin- 

 cipal object. This has been a mistake almost as gross, as 

 its opposite extreme, of making the use of the animal, 

 for the most part, if not entirely, to consist in bearing 

 a crop of wool. Most undoubtedly this is an important 

 faculty ; but it should be combined with other quali- 

 ties. The eaters^ in a general convention, would far 

 outvote the mere manufacturers. The side of the great 

 majority would be that — of fine mutton and a comfort- 

 able coat — in preference to a very superior garment, 

 and proportionately inferior esculent. Very fine wool, 

 and prime mutton are rarely, if ever, found together.. 

 If they can be combined, as it is alleged they may. — 

 it is "a consummation devoutly to be wished." — And 

 the experiment is well worthy our unbiassed attention, 

 and best endeavours. 



The great body of farmers (however it may be with 

 a few) will find their account under present circum- 

 stances, in the sheep, whose carcase both for quality and 

 size, is always in demand for the market ; and its wool 

 sufficient in fineness and plenty, for all purposes com- 

 monly required ; of whatever breed it may be. Few 

 'Pennsylvania farmers could, or would, keep a flock, 

 merely for the fleece. It is the general custom, to cull 

 the flock after shearing ; and sell the fat sheep to but- 

 chers. No temptation of wool, w^ould induce many to 



