The Farm-Prize Competition, 1884. 
513 
The large decrease of sheep is partly attributable to the fact 
that, owing to the ravages of the rinderpest in 1865 and follow- 
ing years, sheep-stock had to a certain extent replaced cattle- 
stock for a time, and the increase of the latter is partly 
explained on the same principle ; but it must also be remem- 
bered that the increase of grassland must have a tendency to 
reduce sheep-keeping facilities, and increase the means of 
keeping cattle. The present large deficiency in the numbers of 
sheep, as compared with 1868, may also be in some measure 
owing to the losses from liver-rot in the wet seasons of the last 
decade. The numbers of both stock have sensibly increased in 
the last year over its predecessor, and we may with favonrable 
seasons look for further development. 
Throughout Shropshire and Herefordshire the prevailing 
breed of cattle are Herefords, and the improvement of these 
valuable animals has been greatly stimulated since the Herd- 
book was established (mainly through the exertions of Mr. Duck- 
ham, M.P.). The American demand, which has been going on 
for some years, is as active as ever, and, according to the 
opinions of Americans themselves, may continue for years to 
come. Quite recently this demand has extended to South 
America ; thus opening out a vast field for the future. It was 
indeed fortunate for the breeders that they got their animals 
registered, for our friends across the water will not as a rule 
look twice at an animal, however meritorious, that is not proved 
to be pure bred by the Herd-book. Any lengthy description of 
the Hereford cattle would be out of place ; their great size, early 
maturity, splendid beef-producing qualities, and hardy character, 
are well known ; their weak point is in yield of milk, though 
what they do give is rich. The universal practice of turning 
out the calves with their dams, and either not milking at all or 
only taking away any excess during the first weeks of the calf's 
life, is not calculated to encourage or develop milking qualities, 
because it is well known that, if the whole of the milk is not 
abstracted, the flow rapidly reduces, and, as the calf learns to 
eat grass, it naturally cares less for the teat. There are other 
reasons why we question the wisdom of the system. The returns 
from ordinary stock are not sufficient. The total value of the 
cow's produce consists of the price of the calf when weaned, 
say at 8 to 9 months old, which may range from lOZ. to 12Z., and 
this includes the grass eaten by the calf as well as its dam — no 
inconsiderable item ; whereas, in the best dairy management, a 
return is obtained per cow of more than double, although, of 
course, expense of management is greater. Hereford cows are 
wintered without much expense; indeed, in sheltered situations, 
they may live out most of the year, having a shed to lie in at 
