Test of Mowing Machines. 115 



in the same time as the machines already mentioned. There was no 

 clogging ; the work was done with apparent ease and well done ; 

 little, if any, perceptible side draft, and, as a whole, the working of 

 the machine was not only easy but admirable. 



Lot number four was cut by the "Warrior in nineteen and one- 

 quarter minutes. It did its work well, without clogging, without 

 breaking, although heavily striking one or two obstructions, but it 

 seemed to work harder than some, if not all the others. Although 

 the committee, much to their regret, had no instrument for definitely 

 ascertaining the draft of either, it gave evidence of great strength, 

 ease in handling, and, on the whole, did exceedingly satisfactory and 

 creditable work. 



Your committee regard as the features essential to a successful 

 machine : 



1st. Durability ; and this in connection with work in all lands and 

 in grasses of whatever condition and weight. 



2d. Simplicity ; making it possible for farmers who are not 

 mechanics, or who depend upon uneducated labor, to work and 

 repair (if needed) the machine. 



3d. Lightness of draft; considering that every pound of force 

 expended, if unnecessary, is a waste of muscle, and therefore a walte 

 of money. 



Keeping these points in mind, without evidence with regard to the 

 latter, except from observation, your committee are of unanimous 

 opinion that the Buckeye comes nearest to the standard proposed ; 

 nearest to being the universal machine. 



Next to this, in their opinion, comes the Sprague, with as compact 

 make, ease of draft, ease of handling, and, if time demonstrates it, its 

 durability. 



And that, third, between the Clipper that badly clogged, and the 

 "Warrior with its heavy draft (apparently), both being machines 

 worthy of American genius and worthy of the age, your committee, 

 being divided, respectfully ask that each be accorded the mention 

 which they individually merit. 



"With regard to tedders, Bullard's was the committee's unanimous 

 choice as being the best, although it is believed that the universal 

 tedder is not yet invented. 



All of which is respectfully submitted. 



(Signed) H. L. READ, 



JOSIAH H. MACT, 

 FRANK D. CURTIS, 



Committee 



