88 Samples and Sampling  [123-125 



is to be valued by an expert, the usual method of examination is 

 to cut out a groove about 2 feet wide by 2 feet deep, extending 

 from the top to the bottom of the stack. This is to enable 

 the valuer to see the hay in the interior. When this has been 

 done, a sample for analysis may be obtained by pulling out 

 portions of the freshly exposed hay from different levels. 



Another and, where practicable, better method is to take 

 the sample from different parts of the stack whilst it is being 

 made. In either case, the hay should be cut up in a clean 

 chaff-cutter, and placed in large wide-mouthed bottles imme- 

 diately, so that it may not get damp or mouldy, or, on the 

 other hand, lose moisture by being stored in a hot place. 



123. Water Samples. — A sample of water should be 

 taken in a clean glass-stoppered Winchester quart bottle. The 

 bottle should be washed out with the water which is to be 

 analysed before the sample is taken. If it be from a tap, the 

 water should be allowed to run for several minutes before 

 filling the bottle. If it be from a well, the mouth of the 

 bottle should be sunk some inches beneath the surface when 

 filling. 



For an analysis such as is described in this book, one 

 Winchester quart is sufficient ; but should a complete analysis 

 according to the ' Frankland ' method be required, twice as 

 much will be necessary. 



124. The Sampling of Soils. — Two methods are in 

 vogue for the taking of soil samples. The Royal Agricultural 

 Society recommend one, and the Highland and Agricultural 

 Society another. 



125. Royal Agricultural Society. — 'Have a wooden box 

 made 6 inches long and wide, and from 9 to 1 2 inches deep 

 according to the depth of soil and subsoil of the field. Mark 

 out in the field a space of about 1 2 inches square ; dig round, 

 in a slanting direction, a trench, so as to leave undisturbed a 



