liO \VORKIX(r OXEX. 



That several of ouu Fanners' Clubs have iatroduced for discussion, the 

 subjeet of training, must be regarded as an encouraging " sign of the 

 times." Let us all, as much as we may be able, agitate for some defi- 

 nite standard ; and we can but suggest to these whose jurisdiction may 

 include necessary modifications of our by-laws, that the qualifications 

 for premium be extended so as to require more grace, nimbleness, and 

 a greater discipline in the minor movements, which truly 2XQ disiderata 

 in oxen to be used on the farm. We should prove recreant to our sense 

 of what is desirable did we fail to indicate the direction the discipline 

 should take. 



It is well known that; awkward cattle are utterly unable to take care 

 oi their legs, and of consequence the legs and feet of untrained oxen.- 

 are constantly subject to mutilation, either from other legs and feet, or 

 "trom. the chain, as in logging, &c. ; hence that part of their discipline 

 which arms them against these dire calamities, is especially to be rec- 

 ommended. Indeed, we have known valuable pairs of oxen to be ren- 

 dered kors: d'.fj comhat by their struggles in '^ hauling, ^^ not the load to 

 whioh they were attach^, but each other ! It is painful to witness tho 

 wild and senseless ravings of cattle that have never been taught the 

 use of their rauseles, and how to apply their strength to the master's 

 advantage. 



Competitors should understand that these points which we here 

 ioueh upon, are regarded as essential, and muse enter into the estimate 

 to awarding premiums. We must not only take cognizance of the 

 thing done as an ultimate, but we must regard the '• how" by which it 

 ie done. It is this hoia that makes the comfoii; or discomfort of all 

 who have to do with working oxen, and generally largely affects the 

 merit of the performance. It is impossible to. sever the connection 

 between grace and higliest use — the best way to do a thing ever involves 

 taste, economy, and pleasure to the doer — thus on the score of utility, 

 wo urge these accomplishments. But it is noticeable that farmers are wont 

 to view this matter in a different light, and to si>eak of the si)ecial feats 

 we are advocating, as merely fanciful adjuncts, and not at all a neces 

 yary part of ox-training. A little reflection will suffice to correct this 

 conceit, and it is because the prejudice which exists has no foundation 

 in science or common sense, that we are obliged to write so much at 

 length in this report. In a former article we have endeavored to lay 

 sufficient stress on several points which we deem essential ; and that 

 competitors may the better prepare to meet the requirements and thus 

 some real advancement in managing oxen be made, we again allude to 

 them. It is manifestly absurd to hope for any commendable degree of 

 proficiency in " backing," unless oxen are taught the true position to 

 bo maintained. If cattle cannot keep their noses out of the ground ; if 

 they cannot hug the spear ; if they cannot exert equal strength 

 simultaneously, in shoving a load back, though never so much muscle 

 be applied, their effort will be a failure. Such cattle have no command 

 of their force adequate to the situation, and we could as correctly rank 

 them in the scale of merit before as qftey trial. Hence the time con- 

 sumed in their case is thrown away. T!ie power to accomplish great 



