PREFACE. 



Since the publication of the Shepherds' Manual by the 

 present author a vast increase has occurred in the estima- 

 tion in which the sheep has been held by America!! farm- 

 ers, and indeed this great agricultural interest has ad- 

 vanced by strides everywhere all over the civilized world 

 where agriculture has reached its full development. And 

 while the work mentioned is still in print and circulation, 

 and fills a useful place in the special literature of the farm, 

 yet circumstances have occurred which make it desirable 

 that some newer work of wider adaptation to the great in- 

 terest involved should be undertaken for the information 

 of all concerned in the rearing of sheep and for the en- 

 couragement of this part of farm industry. 



This present work is therefore offered to shepherds in 

 the hope that it may be found useful and effective in ad- 

 vancing this- important interest, and in assisting to more 

 fully develop the breeding and rearing of sheep. 



HENRY STEWART. 



526693 



