fSTEODUCTIOA\ 



Indeed, a modern prize-bird almost merits the 

 character which a Parisian waiter gave of a 

 melon, when asked to pronounce whether it was 

 a fruit or a vegetable. " Gentlemen," said he, 

 '' a melon is neither ; it is a work of art." 



The cost of poultry keeping is much overrated. 

 To rear for the market only, would even give a 

 profit. Exhibition is, doubtless, expensive ; but 

 in some measure it pays itself, and the necessary 

 outlay is much reduced by sales of eggs and 

 fowls at high prices, when a reputation has been 

 once established; and any intending exhibitor 

 may take my word for it, that she (though per- 

 haps of moderate means) may, without extra- 

 vagance, snatch her harmless victories, invest 

 herself with the blue riband of the poultry yard, 

 and win her bloodless Solferinos. 



In these pages will be found figures as to the 

 "Balance Sheet." I jim aware that these can 

 be made to prove anything. I can say, how- 



