34 



Canis familiaris Meliticus. It is now almost if not 

 quite extinct. It was remarkable for the very slight 

 affection which it evinced for its master. Plenty 

 of loudly barking dogs are however still to be met 

 with, but several cases of hydrophobia having been 

 reported the police have of late cut short the life 

 of many a cur. 



Sir W. Reid whilst Governor of Malta re-organized 

 the Economico-Agrarian Society for the improvement 

 of the breeds of domestic animals, and for the 

 general advancement of agriculture. This Society 

 has done good service by holding annual Agricul- 

 tural Shows at the Boschetto on the popular festival 

 of S. S. Peter and Paul (June 29th), at which 

 prizes are given for the best animals and farm 

 produce. The same useful Society also holds an 

 annual Flower Show at the Upper Barracca in 

 Valletta, at the same time maintaining there a 

 pleasant garden which is a deservedly popular resort, 

 and much frequented both by residents and visitors. 



