158 Profitable Poultry Keeping. 



good condition are two most important elements, which 

 should never be lost sight of by the poultry breeder, as with- 

 out these it is impossible to succeed ; and, whilst great care 

 should be taken to see that the other qualities of the birds 

 are suitable, nothing should ever induce the use of sickly 

 ones for stock purposes. And, also, in deciding upon the 

 selection of breeding fowls, there must be a clear understand- 

 ing as to what is required — we mean, to what purpose the 

 chickens are to be put, and then, keeping this end in view, 

 let them be chosen accordingly. Hap-hazard breeding never 

 did, and never will, succeed ; though, at times, a lucky hit is 

 made, but there is no certainty as to its being repeated. A 

 careful study of the birds to be so used will be well repaid ; 

 and, if they have to be purchased, it will be time well spent 

 to make inquiries as to the qualities of the birds. Poultry 

 fanciers expend both time and money freely, in order to 

 obtain all the information possible about a bird they pur- 

 pose buying, knowing the great injury which may be done 

 through want of a little care ; and the matter is equally as 

 important to the poultry farmer. Because of the want of 

 information, we do not advise buying in a poultry show, 

 except it can be obtained, and many a yard has been ruined 

 by diseased, or otherwise unsuitable birds, bought in this 

 way. The best way is to go, or send, to known breeders, 

 who have a reputation to keep up ; and, though a little more 

 money may have to be paid in the first instance, it will prob- 

 ably be found the cheapest way in the end. In the spring of 

 the year, a very common way of getting fresh blood into a 

 yard, or, of commencing one afresh, is to purchase eggs, and 

 if fairly dealt with, this is both a cheap and good means of 

 doing so ; but, unfortunately, there is a good deal of roguery 

 in the business. Where it is desired to get the yard into 

 full operation, or to have the benefit of the new blood at 

 once, this plan will not do, and birds must be bought instead. 



