EXHIBITION. 249 



Their food consists of meal mixed with ale or 

 milk, scraps of meat from the table, linseed 

 soaked and mixed with rice or meal, hempseed, 

 groats, and wheat. Nothing is too good for 

 exhibition-birds, the expected winners of first 

 prizes and silver cups. Having put up three 

 pullets with each cockerel, I have then to select 

 from them the best pair, and return one to its 

 plantation run. It is not an easy matter to 

 match a pen of fowls, though only three in num- 

 ber ; there are so many points to be considered ; 

 and the matching of combs, hackles, breasts, 

 shape, and colour, must be perfect. All other 

 points being equal, I determine the final choice 

 by weight, and I have just completed my entries 

 by weighing my beautiful Eouen ducklings, 

 which turn the scale at eighteen poimds. I 

 am scrupulously careful in washing the white 

 Cochins and light Brahmas. Old birds are 

 yellow and shabby at this season, and require to 

 be thoroughly cleansed to look at all well. I use 

 a brush, white soap, and hot water, taking care 

 to brush the feathers straight down, and always 

 pouring tepid water over the bird to remove any 



