106 
The Poultry of the Farm. 
blood ; for shortness of leg, solidity of body, whiteness of flesh, 
a good honest " cut-and-come-again breast," early fitness for 
the market, and " something for your money," nothing beats 
the Dorking. The chicken may be somewhat delicate, and 
so there is much to be said for the first cross, and the best will 
be produced with the Brahma or the Game, Brahma-Dork- 
ing chicken are hardy, and give satisfaction on the table. 
" Cuckoo " Dorkings are not largely patronized. The 
" Coloured " and the " White " are better known. The latter 
are smaller, and must have rose or double combs. All Dork- 
ings must have five clearly defined toes on each foot, and strictly 
white legs. Many of our principal breeders and judges are 
now alive to the danger of allowing our fine table-fowls to be 
handed over to " the fancy," and their excellence to be en- 
dangered for the sake of a feather. Undoubtedly, breeding for 
dark plumage has resulted in " sooty "-legged Dorkings, and 
it is to be hoped that our great Agricultural Societies will oppose 
and stamp out the blot by only recognising the strictly white- 
legged bird. Dorkings are better layers than the}^ are generally 
supposed to be. 
"Scotch Greys" are becoming better known in the south. 
They are good either in the farm-yard or enclosure. 
III. For the production of chicken and eggs, Dorking 
cocks mated with Brahma hens are desirable, as such hens lay 
in the cold weather. 
Plymouth Rocks are a new variety, much patronised, and pro- 
mise to be good layers as well as good eating, although their 
yellow legs may not recommend them for " boiling." The 
chicken are hardy ; eggs not particularly large. 
IV. On the point of appearance, I will only say that it is a 
pity to sacrifice our best table varieties, whilst so many beautiful 
breeds afford a chance of indulging the fancy. 
When fencing is a consideration, and as specially adapted 
for confinement, Brahmas, Cochins, and Langshans are un- 
equalled. A low wire restrains them ; they are quiet, contented, 
good sitters, and lay in cold weather ; but they cannot claim 
" the enviable distinction " of first-class table-fowls. 
The French breeds have their admirers, although the Houdan 
has not fulfilled the promise given. 
The Polish — of several varieties — are fairly useful, and much 
to be desired by those who love a top-knot. 
The Malay is considered good eating, but a savage. Other 
breeds might be mentioned if they could be recommended as 
profitable for the farmyard or cottage ; and certainly Bantams 
of much beauty and very-varying colours may find a place in 
the stable-yard. 
