420 
The Illustrated Book of Poultry. 
cn terprise are sufficient to cause some feeling of regret that the most scientific and skilful 
ef all bieecleis have not yet set their hands to similar work, at least as regards the larger varieties. 
clLat ’ on °f Game Bantams, and the marvellous truth of form and feather obtained in these 
beautiful bieeds, would warrant the expectation of “something good ” if scientific breeding of this 
desciiption weie systematically attempted with regard to the more useful races of fowls. 
JUDGING FRENCH FOWLS. — In deciding the relative merits of these birds, it is never 
to be foi gotten that they are chiefly to be regarded as useful races; hence good size, symmetry, 
and evident vigour of constitution, should always be allowed great weight in judging, and be 
ahvays allowed to carry the day in doubtful cases. There are, perhaps, few classes in which the 
special gifts of “ a quick eye ” and “ common sense ” are so much required. In Houdans especially, 
considerable latitude as to shade must be allowed ; and it is our emphatic opinion that far less 
stress should be laid upon crest both in Houdans and Crevcs. For the rest we must refer to our 
Schedules. 
SCHEDULES FOR JUDGING FRENCH FOWLS. 
General Characteristics of Houdan Cock. — Head and Heck — General appearance of head brisk and lively ; beak 
medium-sized ; comb large and branched, somewhat like two leaves of a book opened, with a bunch of coral in the middle : 
wattles rather long, but neatly rounded ; deaf-ears rather small, and nearly hidden by the muffling ; crest large and full, pointing 
rather backward, away from the comb ; beard or muffling full and thick, both under throat and at sides ; neck medium length, 
carried very upright, well arched, and full of hackle. Body — General appearance full and square, the back very wide and slightly 
drooping; saddle also w'ide ; wings w r ell developed, but carried closely and tightly ; breast very broad, prominent, and full. Legs 
and Feel — Thighs and shanks short, the latter perfectly free from feathers, and moderately stout ; toes w'ell developed and straight, 
with a double or fifth toe behind, to be distinctly formed, and turned rather upwards, as in Dorkings. Tail — Ample, with broad 
COURTES PATTES. 
