12 



Farmers' Hullrlin 1199. 



and the spaces between (lu> ribs should be well filled with firm flesh. 

 (Fig. 13.) 



Strength and covering of the back: By placing the hand firmly 

 on the back with fingers together, note the strength and covering 

 over the back. Note carefully the spring of the ribs, especially the 

 last rib, as the width of a well-shaped barrel or body increases grad- 

 ually from the shoulders back to the last rib. In breeding ewes a 

 large, well-sprung middle is desirable. (Tig. 14.) 



Kio. 9. — Inspecting neck. 



Width and thickness of loin: Determine the width of the loin 

 by placing one hand straight down on each side of it, and the 

 thickness of the loin is determined by placing the fingers flat over 

 the spine and noting whether the bones are well covered with flesh. 

 (Fig. 15.) 



Width and fullness of rump: The rump should be level and carry 

 its fullness out to the tail head The hips should be wide apart 

 and smooth, and the rump should be full in the position where the 

 hands are shown. Grasp the dock and note its size and fullness. 



