I Report on the Hmlth of Animals of the Farm. 355 
ise of water from the stagnant pond was forbidden, and as that 
rem the dyke seemed to be fairly pure, instructions were given 
hat it should be procured from that source. Thirdly, to the 
■ianitary condition of the premises. All fodder, straw, and manure, 
which had been in contact with the sick or dead animals, or 
had otherwise become contaminated with their secretions, were 
ordered to be burnt. It was also suggested that lime-wash 
should be applied to the walls of the stables which had been 
occupied by the animals during their illness, and tliat the wood- 
work and fittings should be thoroughly washed with hot water 
uid soap, and subsequently saturated with carbolic-acid solution, 
ir a similar disinfectant. In addition to these measures, it was 
Drdered that all the remaining animals should have a dose of 
aperient medicine administered to them without loss of time, 
and that this should be followed by the exhibition of antiseptic 
agents for several successive days. These preventive measures, 
I have been informed, had the effect of completely arresting the 
further spread of the malady. 
(FoOT-AND-MoUTH DISEASE. 
It was also during the month of November that the present 
serious outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease had its beginning. 
During August, September, and October scarcely a rumour 
reached me of the existence of the malady either in Great Britain 
or Ireland ; and it was believed that, with the exception of some 
parts of Switzerland, the malady had no great prevalence in any 
part of Europe. Even in November little was heard of the 
disease until nearly the end of the month. The first intelligence 
came from Essex, and this was quickly followed by reports of its 
re-appearance in many parts of Sussex. The first cases in these 
j counties were clearly traceable to diseased animals bought at 
Romford market, and at fairs held at Horsham and East Grin- 
stead. Presently I had notice of the occurrence of cases in 
Oxfordshire, Yorkshire, and Lancashire, and diseased animals 
began to find their way to the Metropolitan Market from many 
other parts of the country. 
The cattle exhibitions held at the close of the month and 
beginning of December contributed also to extend the area of 
the malady. One case occurred on the last day of the Show 
of the Smithfield Club, and although the animal was quickly 
removed and given in charge to the officer of the local authority, 
yet, as no restriction was placed on the movement of the others, 
ii cannot be doubted that their dispersion throughout the country 
contributed to the spread of the disease. A similar occurrence 
was also reported from Leeds. Two animals were attacked in 
2 A 2 
