ON EWES. 79 



dogs, rams, or other animals, may be hindered from 

 frightening the ewes ; which should be well fed, driv- 

 en gently, and not put in a situation to jump across 

 ditches, rocks, hedges, &c. or to crowd one on an- 

 other, or to strike against gates, walls, stones, or trees. 



Q. How long a time do ewes go before lambing ? 



A. About one hundred and fifty days, or nearly 

 five months. 



Q. How is it known, when a ewe is about casting 

 her lamb ? 



A. It is known by the bag filling with milk, and 

 by the swelling of the the natural parts ; and the dis- 

 charge of serum, and slimy matter therefrom, to 

 which the French shepherds give a particular name, 

 (les mouillures.) 



Q. How long do these discharges continue before 

 the ewes bring forth ? 



A. Twenty-five days, and sometimes more than a 

 month. 



Q. What is to be done, when a ewe suffers a long 

 time without being able to bring forth ? 



A. It should be first ascertained, if she wants 

 strength, or is too much heated or agitated : in the 

 last case, it is proper to bleed her ; but if she is too 

 weak, it is proper to give her a couple of glasses 

 of tart wine, or drink, or beer, cider, or perry ; the 

 cheapest of these beverages, in the place where the 

 flock is, should be preferred. The provender may 

 be give;i, which has been before recommended, to ex- 

 cite heat at the time of coupling. But before using 

 these remedies, you must be sure that the birth is de- 



