168 THROUGH CANADA 



recall the agricultural conditions of Somersetshire and 

 Hampshire in the days of the Stuarts — golden fields 

 and ripe fruit alternating with the springing corn, 

 and the blossoming orchards. The great difference, 

 perhaps, that would strike the old-time English 

 farmer, were his eyes to open on such scenes, would 

 be the majestic mountains in the background over 

 which the sun climbs at daybreak, and at evening 



" Casts a lingering look of fond regret, 

 Back to the hills where it has played all day." 



But he would also distinguish the common de- 

 nominator of all farm life, the lowing cattle, the 

 browsing sheep, and nearer home the clucking of the 

 conceited hen over her maternal efforts, and the 

 gurgling squeak of the well-nourished porker. 



Fertile valleys lie between the mountains through- 

 out the province, containing the necessary elements 

 for farm produce. A practical knowledge of irrigation 

 enables the farmer to cultivate on a diversified scale. 

 He can study the needs of the locality and adjust his 

 products accordingly. There is neither excess in 

 rainfall nor drought to handicap him. 



General farming comprises grain growing, dairy- 

 ing, cattle and poultry raising, fruit and vegetable 

 cultivation. Clover grows like a weed in this 

 province, west of the coast range, and is a valuable 

 fodder. The great ledges and terraces of the 

 mountain-sides provide good pasture for cattle, and 



