On Fattening Cattle. 
75 
Next observe the temper of the animal : in selecting from a con- 
siderable drove you will often find beasts possessing many of these 
good points, yet in lower condition than some of tlie animals of a 
worse appearance; consider well whether this may not arise from 
the masterful disposition of the ill-made one; and whether, when 
put to fatten where every beast may eat his share of food without 
disturbance, the good-bred one will not soon surpass his more 
masterful neighbour. If yo\i observe a beast that is constantly 
watching an opportunity of goring any other that comes in his 
way, leave him behind, even if he is much heavier than those you 
select; he may be a great trouble to you: and although the 
jobber may think you have selected them badly, he will sell them 
according to what they are worth at the time, and the present 
weight is the great point with him. For this reason always select 
the animals before purchasing, rather than agree to give a certain 
price per head to pick where you like from the drove. 
I think the quality of an animal is of more consequence than 
his form, for common fattening purposes, but have both good if 
you can. But if you are thinking of fattening an animal to show 
for a prize, be sure to have his form as perfect as possible ; for all 
the flesh you may lay on him will not hide any great defect in his 
form : also ascertain, if possible, how the animal is descended ; 
ten to one but the progeny becomes similar to the progenitor. But 
this is generally a most unprofitable affair, and I strongly recom- 
mend all young farmers to leave it in the hands of those gentry 
who can aflbrd the loss, many of whom there are in the country, 
and they deserve our best thanks for their patriotism, for it cer- 
tainly shows the capabilities of different breeds, and thereby 
enables the observing farmer to profit by the experience of others. 
Never buy any animals that are excessively poor ; they will con- 
sume a great deal of food before they are got into health enough 
to fatten. 
I fear I have been rather prolix in these remarks, but have 
thought it necessary ; for depend upon it, unless your animals 
are well bought, fatting cattle will neve\; pay enough to leave the 
manure clear profit, which it ought to do, although I fear, with 
the majority of farmers, it is far otherwise. 
I shall say but little with respect to summer-grazing, as the 
wording of the Society's advertisement appears to apply more par- 
ticularly to winter fattening ; merely remarking that the fences 
should always be kept thoroughly good, a weak place being 
strengthened before it becomes a gap, prevention in this case, 
like many others, being better than cure ; that the bullocks should 
be well supplied with water, and have plenty of shade ; never 
allow them to be frightened by dogs, &c. ; treat them kindly, and 
they will soon cease to fear your presence ; do not let a day pass. 
