e. Determination of solids by approved chemical method. 



The accuracy of the apparatus is of the greatest importance, 

 and the utmost pains should be taken to insure it. It would be 

 well, if from the part of the government, steps be taken to insure 

 that only accurate instruments be brought into the market, by ap- 

 pointing a person, whose duty it shall be to test and mark all such 

 instruments which have stood the test. That the instruments, 

 which are sold without this precaution, are almost without excep- 

 tion incorrect, is a notorious fact. 



The work of verifying the correctness is by no means an easy 

 task, and should be given into proper hands. 



B,— IN THE STABLE. 



The stable test, which can be easily made in smaller cities and 

 villages, is frequently not applicable in larger cities, owing to the 

 distances from which the milk is brought. In such cases an ordi- 

 nance binding the dealer to sell the milk only under such names as 

 indicate its real character, should be substituted. 



"Wherever the stable test can be made, and is in use, the fol- 

 lowing rules should be observed. 



a. The milking is to be done, if possible, at the usual time and 

 with the assistance of a disinterested person. 



5. The specific gravity is determined by means of the lactoden- 

 simeter, at a temperature as near as possible to 15° C. 



c. The reaction of the milk is taken. 



d. Samples of about 1 pint are taken for the determination of 

 the fat and specific gravity of the milk skimmed after 24 hours 

 standing. 



e. The number of cows, their age, period of lactation, health 

 and feed, etc., are to be noted. 



/. The book stating the sales during two weeks past, is to be 

 examined, and thus the quantity ascertained compared With the 

 quantity of milk obtained at the time of examination. 



g. General information from attendants as. to the feeding of 

 the cows, handling of milk vessels and milk, and quantities of milk 

 used for obtaining ci-eam, is also to be obtained. 



The correctness of the notes taken is to be verified by the sig- 

 nature of a witness. 



