124 The Hen at Work 



heating is the only added expense, as the ther- 

 mometer, thermostat, egg-tester, and other ac- 

 cessories are usually included with the machine. 



At this point visit neighbors who have machines 

 like those which interest you. Get their ideas and 

 experiences and look over their machines. If 

 possible buy your incubator from a local dealer, 

 rather than fropi a distant factory. It will cost 

 no more, and you will have someone nearby to 

 help you get it started, and supply broken or 

 missing parts. 



Second-hand incubators may frequently be pur- 

 chased at a low price. If they are of standard, 

 well-known makes, and not over two years old, 

 such a purchase might be wise, but the develop- 

 ment in incubator construction during the past 

 ten years has been so rapid that it is well worth 

 while to have machines that are up to date. Ten 

 per cent added to the hatch will make up for 

 several dollars in first cost, and a new machine 

 would probably give that advantage over a second- 

 hand one of an older type. 



Order your machine by January first, and set it 

 up as soon as it arrives, giving it a thorough test. 

 Every year many beginners order incubators and 



