Breeds of Sheep 203 
while in the National Delaine, which is perhaps one of the smallest, 
the standard weight for a mature ram is 150 pounds, and for the 
ewe, 100 pounds. Likewise, there is considerable variation in the 
conformation, the mutton qualities of some of the families having 
been especially looked after by the breeders until they possess some- 
what the form of the mutton type (Fig. 73). 
326. Rambouillet fine-wool sheep. —.This breed of sheep was 
developed in France, although of Spanish Merino ancestry. It 
takes its name from the Royal farm at the village of Rambouillet, 
Fic. 74.— The Rambouillet. Fine-wool type. 
near Paris. The first importation of sheep to this Royal farm 
was in 1786, when M. Gilbert was sent to Spain and selected a 
flock of 366 animals representing several different families. In 
1801, Gilbert made a second importation, securing 237 sheep, 
which he says was not the equal of the first importation. Im- 
provement was secured principally by selection, the object being 
to produce a large carcass, of good mutton form, covered with 
a good fleece. The French government officials kept careful 
