16 DOBKING FOWI,. 



The superiority of the Spanish generally, as egg producers, is so, 

 decided, that any cross from them meriting the character of 

 everlasting layers, is worth encouragement. It is to be recol- 

 lected that the Hamburgh or Dutch is not the only sort from -which 

 everlasting layers have sprung. Ajiy hens ^hioji with warmth 

 and good feediilg will lay eggs continuously, and especially 

 through the winter, are to be welcomed^ And though the debil- 

 itating effects of continued laying must tell upon the constitution, 

 yet where stock is not desired for a mere gratification of the eye, 

 but kept on economical principles, it cannot be inexpedient to 

 stimulate the prolific powers of hens to the utmost. If good 

 layers which have not the presumption -to compete for the prizes 

 of birth or beauty, can by clever management, be induced to lay 

 within two years the entire compliment of eggs which in the 

 ordina>ry course of nature would noli be yielded by them in less 

 than three years, there is an actual saving gained of atleastotie- 

 thirdof food, if th6se effete layers be then fattened and killed. 

 No breed would be better if this plan is. strictly applied, than 

 that of the common Blacks of Span^h blood, or some of their 

 sub-varieties. 



THE DOBKING FOWL. 



Of distinct English breeds ithe Dorkings are the most celebrv 

 ted. For those who wish to stock their poultry-yard with fowls 

 of the most desirable shape and size, clothed in rich and varie- 

 gated plumage, and not e3Q>ecting perfection are willing to over- 

 look one or two other points, the speckled Dorkings are the 

 breed to be at once selected. The hens, in addition to their gay 



