P. J. Lambert—The Palace Show



91



over and yet. this only proved that the competition was exceedingly

keen, as indeed it was. In the Amherst class yet another coincidence.

The first prize was awarded to a cock that won the same distinction

at the previous Palace Show. This bird was bred by a member who

sold it as a “ yearling ” to Mrs. Burchett, the winner last year. She

then sold it back to the original owner, so the first prize was won by

the actual breeder of this first-class specimen. The second prize fell

to Mr. Wilson, another fine bird, but possibly lacking that slenderness

of body which is one of the main characteristics of this Pheasant.

The third prize was also a fine specimen and this bird has been shown

at many shows in Great Britain, with variable success; but I

consider it well deserved the distinction it now gained. The Golden

class was rather mixed, and since the Show Mr. Pooks has written

to me and expressed the opinion that our British Golden Pheasants

are rather poor in face colour and he is sure that this is due to in-

breeding. I am convinced he is right. The first prize was given to a

very colourful bird owned by Mr. Roderick; second, Miss Blay (there

is no getting away from this name); and third, Mr. Codner. Lord

Tavistock had an unenviable job in making these awards. I take this

opportunity of thanking him for the able manner in which he judged

the Pheasant section and his efforts were appreciated by all. So much

for the official awards. The O.P.S. cash and special prizes were judged

by Mr. Fooks. I was in the Hall when he performed this difficult

task. I was amazed at the care and trouble he took. This expert gazed

long and earnestly at each exhibit, it was obvious he knew the desired

points, and when a decision was made, it was final. It was most kind

of Mr. Fooks to undertake this judging and it was intricate and shall

I say “ catchy ” ? I will run through these awards as they are in¬

teresting. The best shown Pheasant in the Show was awarded to a

most gorgeous Satyr Tragopan; this bird appeared to be aware of its

loveliness, stretching its neck and gazing around in complete unconcern,

not a feather ruffled and the plumage quite perfect. The second prize

in this award was won by Miss M. Blay (I must be content with Miss B.

in future) with a charming little Ohinquis Peacock Pheasant and, if

I am not mistaken, this same bird was placed second last year in the

A.O.S. class at the Palace Show. A special prize awarded to the best



