18 BULLETIN 356^ V. S. DEPARTMENT OE AGRICULTUEE. 
averaged more than 15 points higher than the dairymen who were com- 
peting for the first time. 
The scores made by both market and certified milk samples at the 
National Dairy Shows in 1910 and 1911 have been compiled, and 
they show similar results for the two years, though in the case of 
market milk the improvement from 1910 to 1911 is very small; but 
the fact that the dairies which had had the advantage of a previous 
competition averaged 6 points better than the new competitors bears 
out the truth of the statements made in this connection. The 
improvement in the certified milk was very remarkable, as in 1911 
14 dairies increased their 1910 score by nearly 8 points and exceeded 
by more than 15 points the 3 certified dairies which were competing 
for the first time. 
These figures, which are the result of the compilation of a large 
number of samples, show how the dairyman is taught by these con- 
tests to improve the quaUty of his products. The score cards made 
on each exhibit of milk and cream are always sent to the competitors 
with comments on the defects of the product, and the}^ should contain 
suggestions for improvement. Progressive dairymen everywhere 
are availing themselves of the benefits derived from these contests 
and are finding that the competition aids them in many ways. 
EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS. 
The following are quotations from letters that have been received 
from dairymen subsequent to milk contests: 
I was so much surprised on the following morning after the announcement; when 
I arrived in town the people came in every direction to congratulate me on my success; 
I could not believe it. From the fact that there are so many older and more experi- 
enced dairymen than myself I was not expecting anything of the kind. 
I have this much confidence in myself that if I won this time I will try again, I 
have discovered where I can make much improvement next time in flavor. 
I expect to use narrow-top pails hereafter. I use straw for bedding; I dampen my 
bedding with a sprinkler just before the cows go in. I washed my cow 12 hours before 
milking; later, I rubbed her down* one hour before milking I rubbed her down again 
with a damp cloth. 
* -x- * * * ■x- * 
We are very glad that we had our goods entered. The winning of cup and honor- 
able mention are a source of satisfaction, not from their value, but to know our standing. 
We have been trying to produce good, clean, wholesome products, but did not 
know where we stood as compared with others, as this was our first entry. 
It has certainly been a good advertisement for us, as we have not been able to fill 
our orders since. 
******* 
Although my milk was not good enough to receive a diploma, I learned more than 
if it had scored better. The appearance of the samples on Friday made me think I 
was free of many undesirable kinds of bacteria, and I believe that if my methods are 
improved I can produce as good milk as is produced in the much more expensive 
plants. 
