OTAGO AGRICULTURAL AND PASTORAL ASSOCIATION.

Otago Witness, Issue 2490, 4 December 1901, Page 22

OTAGO AGRICULTURAL AND PASTORAL ASSOCIATION.

THE SUMMER SHOW.

Hon. Lffe Governor, Mr Thomas Brydone, Governors— John Eoherts, C.M.G., Messrs William Patrick, Robert Charters, George Gray Russell, Robert Campbell; president, Mr Alexander Douglas; vice-president, Mr George Roberts, hon. treasurer, Mr John Angus; General Committee— Messrs D. Andrew, A. C. Begg, W. Blackie, J. W. Blair, H. Buckland, William Charters, H. M. Driver, John Elliot, G. H. Gilroy, James Gow, John C. Gow, James Hazlett, Arthur Johnson, J. Lethbnclge, T. Miur, A. M'Farlane, A. S. Orbell, James Patrick, P. Pattullo, C. S. Reid, Jas. Ross, James Shiel, James Smith, jun., William Souter, A. C. Stronach, W. H. Taggart, Andrew Tcdd, Hon. T. Fergus, A. W. Robin, C.8.; hon. life members— Joseph Allan, 'JohnAngus, James Duthie, Robert Gawn, William Jaffrav ; hon. veterinary surgeons — Messrs J. A. Cilrutb, M.R.C.V.S., W. D.. Snowball, M.R.C.V.S., A. Hamilton, M.R.C.V.S., C. J. Reakea, M.R.C.V.S.; hon. biologist, Mr Thos. Kirk, F.L.S.; -auditor, Mr Thomas Callender, F.1.A.N.Z. ; secietaiy, Mr H. V. Fulton.

A quarter of a century has passed since the Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Society inaugurated their annual Summer shows and grand parade of liv? stock. Advances in many directions have been made during the past 25 years ; and comparing this year's effort with the many excellent displays of the past, the committee may well feel satisfied at the progress made. To set a high standard and to maintain it is an achievement to bo proud ol : to excel it is worthy of emulation. Anil it i« not going too far to fay that th» A.giicuKural and Pastoral Society have this year excelled tlieinselv<?f.

Meteorological indications earned a good deal of apprehension on Thursda}', and anxious glances were cast at the sky in ihe effort to forecast the weather, on which depended the thcccss- or failure of the- show. The morning was decidedly unpromising, and when rain began to fall about midday the worst was feared ; but fortunately it was only a shower, and when it passed it remained fine for the i - est of the day.

Tahuna Park ha« seen many improvements since it was first used as a show-ground, and now it is perhaps one of the best in the oolony. It has an unenviable reputation for Weakness in windy .weather, but . its arrangements to meet the convenience of exhibitors are -now remarkably complete. The area to be reclaimed froii) the Sandhills- is growing perceptibly Mnaijor, and Hrmo day it is hoped that the east, end will be in a condition to enable it to be used for the machinery exhibits. This should be accomplished in two or three years' time, and by then we may reasonably expert to be abie to go right to the gates of the park in electric tramcars. Amongst the improvements made for this year's show are the additions to the accommodation for the public on the terrace, whence the crowd may command an excellent view of the whole ground. New pig-pens have been erected ; but in attending to the comfort of the pig, by making him a very comfortable sty, the committee have sacrificed utility, and the enclosures are so small that yesterday the judge had to take the occupants out before he could see them properly pnd adjudicate on their merits. Eiidently judging a pig in a poke is as unsatisfactory as purchasing one similarly situated. A number of new sheep-pen>3 have been erected to meet the additional requirements, and more stalls have been supplied for the cattle and horses.

The show-ground on Thursday presented a scene which any young community such as this might well be proud of. Entering the grounds, the eye is attracted by the implement exhibits. Flags are flying gaily from every stand, and the booming of a threshing mill at work scarce serves to drown the rattle of the rival reapers and binders giving practical illustration of their capabilities. The modern agriculturist, as the result of competition, has boon compelled to .reduce the tillagf of the soil to a science, and has thus invoked the aid of the inventor to produce for him implements reducing the expenditure of human labour to a minimum and increasing the earning power of his land. Every year «ces the introduction of new methods and improved implements, and the displaj' of machinery at this year's show is the finest on record. The exhibits cover a large prea of ground, and amongst them may he found the colonial-made article side by tide with that imported from England, lie United States and Canada. The fact .ha* different makers are vicing with each other to trupply the New Zealand farmer ml\i die most up-to-date implements shows 'hot there must be a continual demand, and in; "eadinec3 to ut. li=e improved machinery i 5i 5 a otiong fontia-,t with the iardmese of m«.i/ English farmers to do likewise— as v.raeci the fact recently recorded by our London oonvepondent. who found antiquated .vooden ploughs in u*-e within 40 miles of London, husbandry or agriculture in its v.ideat tciiae ha= made greai; strides m tins colony of late yc-aivs ; and although it may yet be behind thai, of Canada and the United States, where the grain springs out of a leyguc-loug furrow, and a field of wheat bounded by the horizon is reaped with a co-nbined harvester, still it is gratifying to la.ow that our own implementn:a':crj cni hold their ov. n m the manufacture of muchiiicry with their great rivals in America

Proceeding xm tl c main thoroughfare the Retortion i^ attracted by thn displaj- of iranuJ. o'r.rsd goods ol al' de-cr:piion*. Bicycles, cooking ranges pplent rabbit tiaj:i_-, and .sur'i like are as prominent as in former ye?X5. i'crtilissrs, aheex» elms, and fceeds do

not lack representation, and the requirements of no branch of the agricultural industry remains uncatered for. Tired of inspecting improved ploughs and cultivators, the visitor may regalp himself gratis with a cup of Cadbury's before proceeding to look o\er the stock.

The display of live stock is nearly as strong numerically as lacst year, and it is pleasing to be able to record that there is no apparent deterioration in the quality of the different breeds. Sheep must be regarded 1 as quite up to last year's exhibits, and even if .some breeders have lost grounel others show a corresponding improvement, and the general standard is not reduced. It would perhaps he too much to expect any marked advance in this staple industry, and pastoralists may well be content with keepjng up the quality of Otago sheep to its present high" leveT. ' Strong competition tlve year, as usual, comes from North Otago and Canterbury, and in cattle some fine pedigree stock faced the judges. The following comparative table shows the entries of the past four years : — 1901. 1900. 1899. 1898. Sheep .. 332 160 197 120 Cattle .. 128 9S 117 129 Horses .. 278 338 272 275 Pigs .... 42 44 35 39

631 6iO 621 563 Comparison has often been made with the numerical strength of the entries for the Otago show aud tho=e for shews in the North Inland, but it should be remembered! that the entries given above are bonp, fide entries of stock. Sensational numbers running into thousaads have been given of North Island show entries, and which comprise poultry, dogs, canaries, dairy produce, bicycles, implements, etc., while in , this province some of these form the subject [ ol shows in themselves. Judging was carried out on the whole with commendable promptitude during the i day, and, so far, there have been few, if any, complaints as to tho results. The officers of the society, from the president (Mr Douglas) to the secretary (Mr Fulton) were untiring in their efforts to carry out the arrangements, and they succeeded admirably. CATTLE. Shohthohxs. There was competition in shorthorns in almost every class, and many of the animals . wera "exceptionally fine. The principal prizetakers were Mr Arthur Chamberlain (of Canterbury), the Hon. Mathew Holmes's' trusr tees, Mr Geo. Anderson (of Wright's Bush), ■ and Messrs J. and J. Miller (of Maimga- , tua). The" entries in bulls of three years or over were similar in number to last year, and Mr Chamberlain, in addition to taking first place with Duke of Rothesay — an ani- " mal that has won at Christchurch for two years in succession, — secured the championship. Mr Gow followed very close with a, bull that took first prize raid champion at the recent Taieri show. The judges had a little difficulty in placing the third prize, as Messrs J. and J. Miller met a powerful opponent in Mr Blair, who showed a bull that had carried off the honours twice before. Altogether it was rhe finest show in aged bulls seen in Dunodin, and the com- . ment of the judges was, "A very strong class," the first and second bulls being exceptionally fine, and worthy of special notice. In two-year-old bulls the entries were more numerous than last year, and the first prize animal was a fine sample of the breed. Mr Lay probably secured second place owinj; ty a want of condition in the bull placed third. In yearlings Mr Anderson won with a good stamp of a beast, which was sweeter all over and had better " handle " than its opponents. The second prize-taker was also a very good bull, but did not " handle " so well ; and the third did not exhibit equal breeding with the other two. The judges' cr.mment was "A superior class; better than the two-year-olds." There were six entries for the aged cow class, which was won by a very good cow sired by the champion bull, and was also owned by Mr Chamberlain. The second prize fell to. the champion .afe Ihe recent Taieri show. She was hardly as. fine as the first prize cow r . The third prizetaker was" a fairly good Animal, but somewhat deficient in breeding by comparison, with the other two. -Mr Chamberlain was again to the front in the class for three- , year-old heifers, Mr Anderson coming second , with a very good representative of the bs-eed. In the next class (heifers, two years old) Mr Anderson reversed irhe positions, the judges' comment being, " Just a fair class." The Messrs Miller were the only exhibitors in yearlings, and the judges expressed tho opinion that the roan shown was worthy a, prize. For the best three cows or heifers Mt Chamberlain beat Mr Anderson for first place with some of the progeny of his champion bull Duke of Rothesay.

Polled Axgtts

Messrs Murray, Roberts, and Co., the Hon. M. Holmes's trustees, and the NewZealand and Australian Land Company had it all their own way in the polled Aagus breed, the former gaining six firsts. For the aged bulls they had no opposition, and won with an animal imported 18 months age. His sire, Diaz, was never beaten at Home, and he was quite worthy the admiration he created and the championship that was awarded to him. The Hon. M. Holmes'? trustees wca in the class for two-year-olds with a fine young bull which may possibly in another year have a chance for the championship. The second prize-taker, though a good-looking animal, did not show l»repdingr to the same extent and did not "handle' so well. The prize-taker in the class for yearlings was a fine stamp of animal, and his sire, Abbot, was champion at last year's show. Abbot, it may be mentioned, was sold to go to the North Island last year, and has evidently left some good stock behind him. - The second was a nice little bull, but did not show as well as the descendant of Abbot. He was not so straight on the top, was not so well sprung ia the ribs, neither did he '"handle" so well. Besides securingthe championship for bulls, Messrs Murray, Roberts, and Co. carried off the championship in the aged cow class with Merry Maiden IV, who has never been beaten aso five-year-old, and has been shown every year since she was a yearling. She is by an imported bull which was the most successful bull ia the Gladbiook. stud, and i*

would be difficult to get a higher type of the breed she represents. The second prizetaker, owned by the N.Z. and A. Land Company, captured the championship at the show for two years, but was not exhibited last year. Age is beginning to tell on her, and she is getting a little "patchy" — that is to say, is not 'even in condition, — and this may to some extent account for her lhaving to fall back to second place. The first prize-taker for three-year-old heifers was also at the head of the list as a two-year-old and yearling at the show last year and the year before, and she has never been beaten in any class in which she has been shown. The second prize-taker was very lough co the " tail head," and although a bigger heifer than the one taking first prize, this was sufficient to account for her being placed second. The first-prize two-year-old heifer was shown with calf at foot, and had not nearly the condition the other had, but the probabilities are that the heifer placed second did not " handle " so well. An exceptionally good yearling heifer promising great things for the future was placed first in her class. The others did not show the fianie condition.

Athshikes,

The entries in Ayrshires are in excess of those of last year in the most of the classes, and the championship on this occasion is carried off for both bull and cow by Mrs K. B. Ferguson of Waitajfci. In the aged bull class Mrs .Ferguson had as opponents Mr P. Ireland, Mr Smaill, and an exhibit from theSeacliff Asylum was also shown in competition. Mrs Ferguson's King's Pride, however,~was too good an animal to be displaced from premier position, and beat Mr Ireland's Duke -of York, though not by much. The class right through may be said to have been a very good one.. Mrs Ferguson also beat Mr Ireland in the class for two-year-old bulls, but neither of the animals shown possessed any special merit. The yearling bulls was a good class, and though there were some very promising animals among those in the ring, the Seacliff exhibit stood out prominently, and fairly won his way to the place allotted him. The cow's were a fair class, but the Seacliff cow was not in proper form for a show ground, and was too long calved. The three-year-old heifers were not a particularly good lot. In two-year-olds Mr Ireland came first with a nice little beast that had the makings of a very good cow, and altogether the exhibits, six in number, may be considered as fair specimens of Ayrshire cattle. The yearling heifer class was one of the best in the section, and among the seven animals presented were some exceedingly fine young beasts. iWith lots of good material to choose from the discriminating powers of the judges were fully called into play, and after due deliberation they fixed_upon the exhibit of the Seacliff Asylum as being the fittest to occupy first place. Mrs Ferguson won in the competition for the best three cows or heifers, and on© of the three cows shown by her was Lady, by First Choice out of Lady Emma, which was awarded the championship. The other two were fine specimens of the Ayrshire breed, and, with Lady, made a remarkably .good trio. •-;"- - -** > Al/DEBNET OB JEBSET CATTLE.

• There were . 17 entries in this section as Against 14- for last year, but unfortunately there was but little conroetition in most of the "classes. -Mr A. Quertier, of Mataura, l\ad matters pretty well his own way,, taking both championships. He was unopposed in «ny age bulls, "and won with St. Helier II; a two-year-old shapely bull, well worthy of She distinction he received. It is highly probable that he would have held his> own in competition, at any rate it would have had to be a very superior animal to wrest the championship from him. The same animal was shown in the next class — two-year-old ibulls, — and here again he had a walk over. The pi'ize yearling bull was a good specimen, but was rather out of condition. The other exhibit was only of medium quality, and the judges had no difficulty in making a choice. The first prize cow was an evenly - lnade animal, and besides getting first place in her class, was given the championship, so that Mr Quertier, her owner, won both championships. She was easily placed, but more difficulty was experienced over the second and third awards,, the animals being more equal in point of merit. The winner in the two-year-old heifer class was specially good, but was a bit out of condition. The first and second places were easily fixed, but more consideration became necessary in deciding 1 third honours, which finally fell to Mr Townley, of Highcliff.

Daibt Cattle.

Only one class was represented in dairy cattle — the best cow in milk or in calf — and the ■ first cow, the property of Mr I/. Edwards, was a specially good specimen. All the cattle shown were first-class, as may be gathered from the facfe that the fourth exhibit was considered good enough to be commended.

Fat Cattle.

The particularly strong point about the fat -cattle was found in the pen containing steers exhibited by Mr Wm. Wills. There were Herefords of good breeding, and were of fine massive build. Mr Patrick also exhibited some steers that call for special commendation. The remainder were all well lip to what has bees seen at previous showe.

SHEEP

It was at first feared that the extraordinarily backward season experienced this year would have resulted in a falling-off in this section of the show, but contrary to that expectation there were more entries than last year, and a noticeable feature was that the pure breeds were better represented than previously. The cold, dry season, together with the scarcity of feed, made some difference in the condition of the stock, and it was evident that a good many of the animals were not in show condition. Yet in spite of all drawbacks the fact remains that a number of the sheep exhibited are equal to anything bred in the colony, and some are quite up to the highest standard in *heir class anywhere. Sheep of the merino ■breed, both fine combing and strong combing, again represented a very large class, the total number of entries being 55, against ♦9 last year. In the fine combing class last year the honours were divided between Mr fWatson Shennan and Mr R. M. Turnbull, tut this year Mr Shennan's famous Puketoi sheep were not shown. Messrs R. Campbell and Sons (of Otekaike station), however, more than made good tlie loss, and practically swept the boards with their veiy fina sheep of this breed. In addition to carrying off no less than eight first prizes, they also secured the championship for the best ram and best ewe in the sectton. There ,were only six entries in the strong combing class, against 16 last year, Mr R. M. Turnbull being the piincipal exhibitor. In justice to the latter, whose sheep have not been so ■well placed as they were last year, it may be explained that the season is the worst •v«ff esQttdeaoed on the Maniotoio Plains,

and the sheep have net been either housed or clothed, consequently they are not in the pink of ( condition. Mr William Telford (of Clifton station) carried off the champion certificate in this class for the best aged ram. In the Border Leicester section, Messrs Little Bros, (of Ngapara) are the only exhibitors, and consequently had it all their own way. Mr J. S. Holmes, who competed last year, did not exhibit. This is to be regretted, as without competition the main object of a show is missed. The absence of competition in several sections, and the paucity of competition in .others is a matter for regret. There was splendid competition in the English Leicester section, there being 27 entries, against eight last year, which is an improved condition of affairs we hope to see emulated in future. A number of new exhibitors have come into the field, and altogether the section is a credit to the show. Last year Mr A. Murdoch '(oi Riversdale) was the sole exhibitor, while this year he has three other competitors. This is an exceedingly good class of sheep, and it is desirable that the present competition should at least be maintained. There was a distinct falling-off in the number of entries in the Lincoln breed, there being only nine, against 14- last year. The New Zealand and Australian Land Company were also the sole exhibitors, Mr J. S. Holmes (of Awamoa), who exhibited last year, falling out this year. The sheep j in this section were an exceptionally fine ! lot, and creditable to the breeders. They • all came from the company's Moeraki ; estate. The Romney Marsh . section was --again very well represented, and there was good competition. The prizes were fairly j evenly distributed amongst t*he exhibitors, ' showing that the competition was keen, and j that there is not very much divergence in i type all round. Fulton s trustees carry off tha champion certificate for the best ram, and also for the best ewe, in this class. Last year the exhibitors in the Shropshire Down section were Messrs Aitken and Seth-Smith and Little Bros., all of Ngapara. This year Mr Herbert Edwards (of Ngapara) is sole exhibitor. The inbred halfbied section was vr>ry much stronger this year, there being 15 entries against eight last year. This is a gratifying circumstance, a3 the opinion is ' gaining ground that this type of sheep fills the requirements of the meat export trade, ■ with due attention to wool-production at the 1 same time. It is a type that is likely to grow in favour in the future. The idea is to establish a new type of sheep giving satisfactory results for the frozen meat trade, and ' producing good marketable wood at the •same time. The type is fairly well established now, and the exhibits at Tahuna Park are well worthy careful study. Messrs Murray, i Roberts, and Co. (of Gladbrook) and James | Stringfellow (of Chertsey) are the two ex- ! hibitors, the latter being the principal prizetaker. The falling-off in fat sheep is notable, there "being only six entries, against 17 last : year. The cold and backward season no ! doubt has had something to do with this, but it seems hardly creditable to sheepowners that this important section should be so poorly represented.

Mehinos (fine combing). In this section Messrs R. Campbell and "Sons practically have the field to themselves, and consequently carry off most of the prizes. ■The champion ram is a splendid animal of his type, representing pretty well the perfection of the merino breed. He_ was purchased by the Messrs Campbell some 16 months ago, the price paid being 500 guineas. He came from the Hon. James Gibson's celebrated Tasmanian flock of purebred merinos. This splendid ram, named True Boy, was sired by the famous ram "Vicepresident, out of the celebrated ewe Paragon, by Golden Horn No. 2. He was shown at Christchurch last year and defeated by the ram which secured second place here this year. The second pi"ize ram is also a very fine animal, bred by Mr G. H. Gatenby {oi Tasmania). This ram was awarded the champion certificate at Christchurch last year. The ram in the open class, between 18 months and 30 months, is also a very fine symmetrical sheep, with dense wool and well dad all round. He was bred by the Hon. J. Gibson. The second prize ram in the same class was bred by Mr C. B. Grubb (of Tasmania). He is a nice-woolled sheep, of good frame and clad evenly all over. The aged ram in the New Zealand-bred class is very dense in the wool, and a very fine sheep. The second and third prizetakers are not far behind, all three being splendid representatives of their class. Taken as a whole, the sheep in this section are a very fine lot. and the first prize-takers would compare well with merino sheep anywhere, while the champion ram fs eqiial to anything of his class in these colonies. While the strong combing section is not so good the champion ram is a really good animal. A good many of the sheep are, unfortunately, not in show condition, the wool being tick-stained, and the animals in rather poor condition. This is a matter that could be remedied by a little careful attention.

BOBDEB LEICESTEES.

Messrs Little Bros., the only exhibitors, are to be complimented on the very fine show of sheep of this breed they have on the ground. The champion ram is a very superior sheep. He was also first prize-taker and champion at the Oamaru show. The four-tooth ram placed first here was similarly placed at Oamaru, and is also a very good specimen of his class. The ram hogget awarded first prize is a fine animal, and the second is nearly, but not quite, tip to him. Tliese sheep are good enough to show anywhere. The champion ewe is a handsome animal of her class, and might be shown to advantage in any part of the world ; while the second is not very far behind. The latter was one of a pair that got first place at Oamam. The first prize hogget ewe is> a sheep that will take a position at future shows, being a very fin« animal indeed, possessing all the good points of the breed. The pairs of ewe hoggets in each of the pens are remarkably good sheep. The ram in the class between 18 months and 30 months placed first here was second at Christcliurch, and the one placed second here was first, the positions thus being reversed. The ram under 18 months placed fir3t here was third at Chrislchurch. The ews with lamb at foot placed first here was second at Chri&tchurch and fiivt at Oamaru. She has also been awarded the champion certificate here. The two ewes under 18 months placed first here were second in a pen of three at Christchurch, while one of those awarded second place here was placed second at Christchurch in a pen of three.

English Leicester,*.

The aged ram placed first and awarded the championship is a fine-framed sheep, well clad all over, and of a first-class type generally. He was bred by Mr E. Kelland at North Down, near Timaru. The second is a very fine animal also, but of a larger stamp than the English Leicester generally bred in Canterbury. The wool is rather strong, and the iram© tqo large. Although the class of

rams under 18 months is well represented, thoy are not a very excellent lot. The judge found some difficulty, however, in. placing them. The ewes under 18 months are good sheep, and fair representatives of their olass. Those placed first and second possess no superior merit, however. The two ewes over 18 months are fine animals, with a good stable of wool covering their bodies all over. The r cLass as a whole is good. It is worthy of' note that Mr Murdoch, a Southland breeder, exhibits some very creditable sheep, and succeeded in getting them placed.

LiNcoLrs

I All the -,heep exhibited in this section ore the property of the New Zealand and Australian Land Company, from their Moeraki estate. They are exceptionally nice sheep, i and v.-ould be hard to beat anywhere else. Some of them are the best Lincolns ever exhibited at the Dunedin show, and their splendid appearance is very creditable to the company. Tho only pity 13 that there is no competition. The sheep are all in good condition and well woolled, and as a are a very fine lot. Romxet Maesh. As a whole the sheep in this section are quite up to anything previously shown here. Fulton's trustees carry off first and champion prize for an aged ram of a very fine type. Messrs Miller Bros., of Maungatua, secure first prize for a ram between 18 and 50 months, bred by Bealey Bros., and a. very fine animal he is, too. The same sheep was placed second in the hogget class last yea- . The rams under 18 months awarded first and second prizes were bred by Miller Bros, themselves. The first was similarly placed at the Taieri show. In the class of two rams under 18 months the first prize sheep is a v«ry even, well-clad animal The ewe with lamb at foot awarded the championship is a very fine animal, well -.voithy of *;he distinction gained. Messrs Dalgety t nd Co.'s special prize for the oest pen of 10 ewe hoggets brought out two competitors, find Messrs J. and J. Miller, of M.aungatua, carried off the prize. The she^p are of .t very even type, and tnose placed second, belonging to Mr W. Telford, of Clifton, are not very much inferior.

Sheovshiees.

Mr H. Edwarols, of Ngapara. is the only exhibitor, and the absence of competition is to be regretted. As a class the sheep in this section are exceptionally good, and reflect great credit on the breeder. They represent strains of the best blood In the colony. Mr Edwards gained the cup at Oamaru for most points in this claw of sheep, which would be hard to beat anywhere.

Cheviots.

In this section the trustees of the late Hcu. M. Holmes are the sole exhibitors, and the absence .of competition makes comparison of little value. The sheep come from the Castle Rock station, Southland, and are very good representatives of their class.

Inbred a>:d Halfbred.

These sheep, the progeny of halfbred rams from halfbred ewes, and the result of not less than five crosses of in-breeding, are a very interesting type, which may be considered fairly well fixed now. Mr James .Stringfellow, of Chertsey, and Messrs, Murray, Roberts, and Co., of Gladbrook, divide the honours between them. The ram awarded first prize in the class above 18 months is a good sheep, fitting the requirements in carcase and coming near to the desired fineness in wool. The second prizetaker is a little faulty in wool on the back, while the third 1? an exceptionally wellwoolled sheep on the belly, but there is a lack of fineness in staple. That, in short, is the chief defect of tho whole section. The first ram hogget exhibited by Messrs Murray, Roberts, and Co. is an exceptionally finc-woolled sheeD in every respect, and is at the same tiiiie in show condition. The first ewe above 18 months is a beautifully fine-woolled ewe, but rather loose in frame. The second is well clad, but the wool is not so fine.

Fat Sheep.

There was not much competition in this section, which is somewhat remarkable seeing that the production of fat sheep is one of our chief industries. The sheep shown are all very good animals of their class. The freezing sheep were well up to the standard, but a little on the heavy side. The fat lambs were fairly well grown and in good condition. As a whole the sheep were good, but we hope to see more competition in future.

Very little exception could be taken to the quality of the pigs exhibited, although more competition might have been desired. Without the exhibits of Mr George Rhodes, of Christchurch, the display would have been mpag-re indeed. Mr Rhodes sent down 13 entries, and no less than 10 we're placed in the prize lisr. Berkshires were the strongest class, both in regard to quality and numerical strength, and in the judge's opinion a better lot of pigs has never been exhibited here. Mr Rhodes' s prize boar Lord "Ellesmere VIII, from imported stock, is a fine pig, well haired and evenly made. He outclassed Mr R. M. Dickson's Cairo Prince (imp.) by a superior development of the hams, the latter animal , being somewhat deficient in that respect, although a heavier specimen. Mr Dickson's other exhibii, the progeny of Cairo Prince, was of a coarser type, but still a very good hog. Mr Rowe's Windsor Boy, awarded first in the class "boar under 12 months," was a well-bred specimen. Mr Rhodes' s Berkbhire sow Topper V, as a brood sow, was not outclassed by anything in the show, while Topper XIX, a sow under 12 monthfc, sent down by the same exhibitor, was described by the judge as the best pig on the. ground. In all respects she was an almost ideal specimen, and the critic could look in vain for a bad point on which to make an adverse comment. In Yorkshires the Seacliff Asylum exhibits scored heavily. Although they run the Berkshires fairly close in point of merit, they do not come up to the same standard. It is more difficult to get Yorkshires well developed in the ham, and from a commercial point of view this is a point to be aimed at. Mr Rowe, of Christchurch, took first prize for his Yorkshire boar, which show.cd finer breeding than his rival from Seacliff. There were only a few Tamworths on exhibition, and it is said that there are not many of this ■variety on the Taicri or about Dunedin. For bacon piafs they make a fine cross with Beikshires. but a second or subsequent crooa gives inferior results, and is apt to produce a lanky, leggy animal unprofitable to the breeder. The pen of three porkers exhibited by Seaeliff Asylum were a cros^ between Tamworths and Berkshires, and weie a very good lot.

IMPLEMENTS, MACHINERY, &c

The exhibition of implements and machinery naturally forais a. large part o| the.

show, and a very interesting- part from the spectators' point of view. Thei j are 29 stands altogether in this depart .ent, which, though slightly fewer in number than last year's total, will probably be found to show no decrease in quantity. As a large proportion of the machinery is shown in motion an additional attraction is lent to these exhibits, which were watched yesterday with intere^ by a large number of those present.

Me«srs Reid and Gray are by far the largeai; exhibitors in the implement and machinery section, and their exhibit is most varied, comprising most of their well-known I manufactures in the impl&nvnt machinery line — viz., ploughs, harrows, seed sowers sted drills, ehaffcutters, dr?y=, waggons, ele. They J.fcc exhibit largely ad soleag-ent3 for such world-renowned implement maker 1 ? as Messrs W. Deering and Co., Chicago, in a- lull line of their Ideal harvesting- niachinety, Z»les3rs R Hornsby and Sons, C^rantliani, Aki-oyd portable oil engines * le.*sr:. Clayton and Shuttleworcn, Lincoln., lushing machinery; Messrs Charles Bi'rreJl *acl Sons' single and compound traction «ngine c ; P. Mast grain and manure* drills ; »nd Messrs Maieey and Co.'.? Red Cross windmills Most noticeable araongs'. 1 'arge nnt? varied assortment of ploughs is c. verl'-ible monster four-furrow plough, designed by the firm to plough the \ery stony alluvial land of the Wairarapc. Plains, the cW.igr •*•{! workmanship put on this plough reflect great credit on the firm 'We are -"nformed ■tha* :his plough Is i»?de to the order of Mr Js. Raynor. Lower Wairarapa, ~vho ai the sama time Is getting one 01 "\Eps-:-* Charles Burrell and Sons' 10 h.-p. double crank :ompoimd traction •nigiaes, r.3 the plough is to be pulled by direct .raction. This makes i.he second complete set — plough and engine — supplied .0 this district, md one set, including disc harrows, to the T-3,t>o-vaal, South Africa, to the order of Mr R M'Nab. The firm a exhibit all .hrough is worthy of the closest inspection by those in scorch of knowledge v the latest and roost improved ploughs grain, .urnip, and manure drills, rarnip -'ldgd*:. Deenng'a latest Ideal reapers and binder 3 /nowe r s hayrakes. traction engines oil »r.gin=a, ir.d displa.7 of machinery inspecticti should bo Clayton tod Shuttieworth'o threshing machinery. Before leaving llilo excellent mads of" this firm's sxhibii of all manner and sizes of the English Rudg- a -Wait-.vor:n cycle, this recalling the fact tha'. or.? o f Messrs Reid and Gray's employees— Andrev/ Ralston — was elected as New Zealand': representative in thf great Australian road race from Warrnanibool to Melbourne vad he was successful, making che fastert urne from scratch, and unpaced at tha-. Ralston rode a Rudge-Whitworth cycle in this race. The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company (Limited) have again one of the largest and most interesting exhibits of agricultural machinery on the Dunedin show ground. The Walter A. Wood reapers ami binders exhibited have many special improvements. The open -rear harvester, as now constructed, is a combination of strength and lightness of draught; large silversteel roller bearings are fitted to evcrv shaft, including 4he binder attachment, the driving wheel of "which has interchangeable speed, giving fast and slow motion when required. The convex rollers are all provided with patent straw preventives and reversible gun metal bearings. The main driving wheel is steel .throughout, and fitted with diagonal stays, which protect it when working on steep, hilly ground. The driving rod, or pitman, has a very clever patent device, whereby it can be at once removed and the knife taken out in an instant by simply pressing the latch spring. A special point which will appeal to all practical farmers is the two openings in the front elevators for allowing grass or stubble to escape, which may accumulate between the canvas aprons. Another special feature- is the patent carrying spi-ing, which prevents jarring the machine when crossing deep ruts or furrows. The operator will appreciate this improvement. The platform of the harvester is built of steel, and strengthened with strongangular steel ribs to prevent sagging, and there is now an adjustable seat standard by which the weight of the operator can be used to overcome the neck weight on the end of the pole, when the binder is clear forward, in cutting ryegrass or short grain. The spring balance reel is also a pronounced success. The Walter A. Wood binder received highest award (silver medal) at the Christchurch show, 1900. In the Wood tubular steel mower the farmer has a machine specie ally built for the requirements of this colony. They also show a tubular steel mower, fitted with back-delivery attachment, which gives the farmer two machines in one, and by the use of large driving •wheels immense cutting power i« derived, the knives running on large steel ledger and back plates, thus reducing the draught considerably. . Roller and ball bearings are fitted into all working parts; there is also a hand and foot lift on each mower, and the position of the seat prevents all vibration on the driver and horses. The Wood mower at a competition in July was awarded the first prize (gold medal) against seven other competitor!:. The Wood new steel

J hayrake ha? hsen improved for this season. I High steel-grooved wheels, with removable axle bearing*, are the leading features. The Wood new hay-tedder is also a fine-looking machine and is worthy of inspection ; it is filled throughout with roller and b-11 bearings and the forks have four separate eccentric motions, and are also so controlled tliafc tccy can bt piu at six different distances? fiom the ground, and their durability and efficiency have been amply tested and tholcughly proved in every respect. The uext machine on the stand is the Farmer's Pnvoiu-itc combined gram, turnip, and manure drill. This machine has for .he past five years received the highest awnrds at Christelutrwh, Oomaru, and othar shows. The leading points of the drill are no tide or loose gears, and cherefore no side draught, I dual driving power from each wheel. The j gear oaso is simplicity itself, 20 different changes of quantities being obtained from c:ie wheel m less than a minute. The effec1 vene-s of a drill is measured by its capacity co sow all cereals with or without ma.niu'e. The Farmer* favourite graiu feed-; „ov? from flax seed ap to beans. The manure sower has patent safety pins, and is unbreakable, and will io"r sn=eiallv m-^u flue, coarse, or scicky manures, and when Jt is desirable tc withhold manure from auj- portion of Ihi field the mechanism * mcli that x. :ai-> be cut off by the operatoi. while che ...eed L being sown. Bristow'? •lew patc-ni anti-corrosive turnip and r?pe seeder ohown in .conjunction with bhe :Irill, is absolutely'"tUßt-proof, i»nd 15 greatly admired for its simplicity of' construction. j Fc< years ;he farmers hare complained of ihe troublesome adjustments if all the other I turnip seeders they have used, but this ne-*v iced dispenses with the necessity of shilling each Individual seeder The quantities now are varied instantly by the change wheel, which regulates all .he' feeds at one time, and ir.jmeroup customers who nays purchased the Farmer's Favourite drill endorse the makers' claim that it is a joniplete and advantageous revolution in tgrl culture, and, judging from ihe large number now in -ise in New Zealand no othe: testimony can be i-o convincing at the acn and -woids of those ;vho have used the drill Thsy t,re judges of whose competency there Can bo ao doubc, md the successful Dpe\jtioi: of ihft machine undei the most trying and varied circumstances has evoked such ferven. 1 . eulogy from them »» nothing but the highest degree of excellence rould command, and -which is ample -oroof of the popularity of the Farmer's Favourite drill Nicholson's Patent Hercules cultivato.* should not be confounded with mltivatora of other makers, as it is constructed upon entirely and essentially different principles, and on which its good name and reputation have been established. Among the mosi noticeable 'modifications and additions made (some of which are patented) are several impiovements not to be found on any other spring tine cultivator on the market. This machine also received highest award *fc Oamaru show, beating all other makers. The -other exhibits of this company include 3tump jump and hillside ploughs, Hineinoa spring tine harrows, Crown cream separnters, Daisy churns, cattle dehorners Page* wire-strainers, samples of oil, Donaghy's binder twine, and a large collection of seeds and artificial manures, making 'n all an exceedingly interesting coller-tion of *-Jie latest up-to-date machinery, etc. 3f' Al«rl Burns, the company's chief expert, i: in charge of the exhibit, and from + he jmiovn-': of hand-shaking noticeable "a .he pa s i lav,» days it is evident, that hi* numerous ~n"tomers are all very pleased cc see him s-afely back from his extended tour through ihe United States and Great Britain.

Mr F. K. Manning as usual is c. large ex hibitor of Messrs Marshall Sons and Co. 's well-known and famous threshing and chaffcutting machinery. There is a very large and powerful-looking" eight h.p. traction engine of high-class construction and finish on this stand. It embodies the most modern improvements, combined with strength, durability, economy, and handiness in working. The materials are of the very best for their various purposes, and the workmanship throughout is Nof the highest order. Tho boiler is specially constructed, of extra, strength, for 1401b working pressure p?r square inch. This engine is fitted with two -speeds, as well as differential gear to enable the engine to turn sharp curves when travelling on the road, and this without putting any strain upon the axle or wheels; it also greatly facilitates the steering of the engine, and prevents damage tc the road in turning. The engine is supplied with a powerful strap brake, lined with wood blocks. If. also has extra large and extra strong steel winding drum, with 200 yards of steel wii-c and rope. (Others Mr Manning has have 40& yards of rope for drain-ploughing.) The guide rollers, through which the rope tiavels. are extra large and strong, and smaller rollers are placed at top and bottom of these to keep the rope within the rollers when using it on uneven ground, which L-j usually the case. A strong flanged steel tank is securely bolted to the extended side-plates of the boiler, with the requisite tender and coal bunker arranged on the

lop The tank and bunker are of large Capacity, to enable sufficient water and fcoal to be carried for long stages. The ' tank is re-filled by means of an improved : ,v/ater-lifter with hose and rose by steam ] pressure. It has extra high travelling wheels, these being 6ft Bin diameter by 18in wide. •Besides the foregoing this engine has an injector as well as an ordinary pump, sparkcatcher large head lamp, automatic gauge glass cocks — these, m " case of gauge glass getting broken, automatically close, thus enabling the driver to shut off the cocks and put in a fresh glass without the risk of getting scalded by escaping steam, — double dampers and ashpan, and complete outfit of meeds and frost pins, tarpaulin, firing-tools, cube brush, set of spanners, oil-feeder, etc. lAli the cocks are asbestos packed. The threshing machine, driven by the engine noted above, is of latest style, and has extended frame and 14-ft straw-shakers. It is of extra large capacity throughout, having very large screen, riddles (for dressing both gi'ain and ! grass seed*, and elevator cup 3 (the latter ! being fixed on to belt by means of small , •bolts). The smutter, which is of the open type that turns out a clean, bright sample | of grain that gain? the highest market price, I lias a cast iron frame, the smut wire being jbolted on to this. This is held to be an improvement on the wooden frame, which wore out by constantly ' ■ nailing wire, on to it, and the wire i 3 easier put on. now. The machine has patent grease cups on all the bearings, as well as the oil cups, so tout either can be | iis»ed. It has' strong iron wheels of a new j pattern and screw brakes. It is also fitted | Tnrith angle irons over forewheels, for cbock- \ ing front of mill between the angle irons , and forewheels, instead of between forecarriage. Thi* saves the foreGarriage from ] ibeing knocked about, and is more easily and i more quickly 'done. The next on this stand js \ a four h.p. portable engine. These are so well | and favourably known that a description of j this one is hardly necessary. However, it also Ims improvements. It is of stronger, ' con- ! etruction and made for a pressure of 901b per square inch. It has colonial-sized fire•foox for burning wood or lignite 'as fuel ; \ new kind of wrought iron travelling wheels and foreearriage, and strong screw brake under ban'el of boiler. The pump is of improved type, it being bolted to a flanged steel plate that " is riveted to the boiler and projects beyond • the v lagging. This, enables the pump to be easily removed at j any time by taking off four ' nuts, and the risk of leakage between the pump and the i hoiler -is rendered impossible. This is a ' favourite engine for driving bagger chaffcutters, one of which, of Messrs Andrews and Beaven's make, is placed in -position in front of it, description of which is given later on. The other traction and portable engines and threshing machines catalogued, (being of similar construction to above, call for no comment. But besides these Mr M,anjiing has one of Messrs Marshall Sons and Co.'s new type of portable engine — the Britannia log-burner, working on Messrs Tothill, Wa"ts'on; an,d Vo'.'s ."stand. This "is a* strong, simple, and -substantial engitfe, suitable for rough work in the bush or el=e:where, and is- adapted for burning logs of •wood and other, inferior fuel. The feature of .this is the boiler, which is circular throughout, and stays between the inner and | .outer fireboxes ' are not- required, thus mak- | ing' is .easier to clean and less liable to de- j 'teriorate with bad feed water than -the ordi- ! 'nary' locomotive type. The firebox is cir- ; cular, and is fitted with firebars in three lengths so that it can be made suitable for (burning either wood or coal for fuel. The low«r half of the circular firebox forms the , ashpit. The outer shell of the firebox is lagged, thus keeping in the heat, and thus economising. The engine pump is fitted the same as the. ordinary portable engines. The whole is mounted on strong wrought iron travelling wheels, and is fitted with two pairs of hauling shafts and strong screw ■brake. Mr Manning also exhibits on his fetand Messrs Andrews and Beaven's jnanufor which he is agent, amongst 'which is one of their new type of double This machine, the 'Commonwealth, <i Ban improvement on Messrs Andrews and Beaven's Canterbury baggers, and embodies the same improvements that make the Empire such a favourite with contractors. It mas two pairs of feed rollers, large spindles, (heavy gearing, adjustable bearings, larger riddle, improved double bagger drive, and automatic .brakes, which put this machine ahead of any other (except the Empire) for contractors. Besides the above, Messr3 An•<lrews and Beaven exhibit, through their agent (Mr F. R. Manning) a eorncrusher and other machines. They exhibit, in tbo double-bagger machine, a very ingenious and simple patent clip for holding the sacks round the tube of bagger. Messrs William E. Reynolds and Co.. Bond street, show a collection of Dux and Blue Jay ploughs. These implements, especially the former, are very "well known to the farrner3 of Otagp, and the chief matters of interest are the improvements --which are noticeable in the latest pattern, the Blue .lay. They are many, and perhaps the most important is the increased strength of beam as well as extra length of land beam of the three-furrow, which in this plough goes nearly to the front. The standards, too, are longer, which allows of ploughing to a greater depth, and the spacing bars are btronger and more easy of adjustment, being on the screw principle. Judging from the satisfaction the Dux, or last year's pattern, •plough has given farmers, it is only reasonable to assume that this year's pattern, the Blue Jay, should be found in every way satisfactory, as the improvements are not improvements in name only. The readiness, too, with wMch the third furrow can be detached and the plough made a two-furrow •s a noticeable feature, and fhould prove a .boon to farmers in the event of ahorse failing ihem. It is claimed for this plough that a pulls, with no greater draught than a two-furrow of any other make of plough. Messrs- Reynolds and Co. also exhibit the Dux- lioe, or cultivator, a very useful little implement which can be put to ,various uses, and by lever action closed or expanded to suit any width required. It is BteeL throughout, handles and all, and, it is claimed, wears better than any other implement of its kind on the market. Messrs Reynolds and Co.- have many testimonials speaking in high terms of praise of the work done by both tbe ploughs and cultivator. Messrs Dalgety and Co. make their first appearance on the Dunedin show ground in the implement and machinery line. Their exhibit comprises a full line of the wellknown and popular Osborne goods. The Osborne binder has many features that will especially commend _ themselves to the farmers of Otago. It is specially adapted to lulhude wprk, the elevators being from 7in to 12ln lower than any ether binder in the market, and the main drive wheel is provided with a large centre lug that prevents slipping. The construction, of the main frame

is exceptionally strong, being of heavy Channel steel with solid forged corners. Roller and self-aligning bearings are used throughcut the entire machine. The knotter is the simplest in use, having fewer parts than any other. The O&borne mower is a very strong machine, fitted with all up-to-date improvements, including roller bearings, dust-proof gear covering, broad-faced drive wheels with centre lug, long pitman, well protected, perfect foot-lift etc., and is guaranteed to do perfect work under all circumstances. The Osborne hayrake is the only rake m the world fitted with roller bearings, reversible dump rods, and check teeth to prevent the hay from rolling or roping and working into the wheels. The wheels are reversible, and ai-e built on the suspension principle. The Osborae flexible and reversible disc harrow is a new departure in the disc harrow line, and attracts a lot of attention. Each gang is reversible, and can be changed from an out to an in throw, or vice versa, in two minutes, and, being flexible, the gangs will conform themselves to the shaoe of the ground being operated on, and will ride over stumps or stones without danger of a breakage. The Osborne sulky cultivator is acknowledged the leader of its class. The machine, while permitting the operator to ride, does not throw his weight upon 'the cultivator teeth, as the sulky is entirely independent of the cultivator. The wheels are within the frame, and all wheel tracks are covered by the rear teeth. This implement is- aho .shown fitted with a seed-sowing attachment. The Os"borne farm and garden, cultivator is a strong aad hardy little implement. The most important feature in the tool, and the one in which it differs from all other-, is the rigidity of its expanding device. . Comparison wnb other makes will convince the most sceptical on this point. The Osborne peg-tooth harrows are well made, and have strong steel braces. — Tlie herd steel teeth have upset heads uhich prevent losing them. They can be adjusted up or down, and have four cutting edges. Osbornc Orbit oil is p. free running yet heavy-bodied oil, • and is not affected by hot or cold ". earlier. The Osborne knife and tool grinder is claimed to be the most perfect tool of its class on this market, and only needs to be seen, to be appreciated. The M 'Sherry grain cud fertiliser drill, also fhown by this firm, is one of the oldest in the market, and is fitted with all the most up-to-date^ appliances, in.-. eluding grass and turnip peedoowing attachments. At the Oamorii show i'ne drill was given first class award for new patent drop tube. This appliaace is well worth inspecting. 1 Tothill. Watson, and Co., Dunedin and 1 Invercargill, have a large and varied ex- | hibit. Being noted for seeds, comprising i Sutton's (who supply Royalty), their turnip, | mangel, rape, clover, and grass seeds are ! all that can be expected; and when fostered I by the Islington fertilisers (for which they j are agents), yields, where soil and climate conduce, great crops. The Piano Manu- ! facturing Company (represented- by Tothill, ' Watson, aad Co.> show the Jones patetit lever binder. Looking at their fcesti1 monials, it s-eems the principal- deviation from the old-fashioned track in applying lever rower is .thoroughly appreciated by f armors. The draught is reduced to a minimum by the simplicity of its patents as compared to anything in use. A cumbersome lot of wheels aye dispensed with by * the simple and strong lever action. The binder is fitted v/ith a new application — a "fly-wheel ".--vi hich steadies and. v,h"n brought to a M.v.id, clear* the elevator?. The main wheel is something new, and friction clutches are provided fit all noints to prevent breakage, especially to reel, etc. Other noticeable points about this machine are the adjustable main gear, the automatic elevator-chain tightener, the knotter (which is simplest of all, having only 16 pieces), ! a steel solid frame, an adjustable divider, a vibrating butt-adiuster, a^.id a transport (quite new, and easily worked by one man). The elevators are larger and longer than ordinary, and auy crop can bo managed by the Piano Company's machine. Their mower has all the main lever adjustments and a chain drive. A Piano fickle-grinder is also on view, and this fills a long-felt want. The Jones steel hayrake exoites the admiration of the farmer by its appearance. Tothill, Watson, and Co. also have W. Gardiner and Co.'s patent ridger and swamp plough on view, and these, it is claimed, cannot be surpassed in their efficiency. The firm also sho.v a turnip topper and tarter, and also exhibit Gault's celebrated drain plough, which has saved many farm^rs from distress when applied to their wet land. In addition they have on view the Melotte cream separator, which has now become the favourite of the dairymaids.

The Anglo-New Zealand Cycle Company have an interesting exhibit. 'While this firm only keep two xuakes of cycles — namely, An<?lo Specials and Humbers — these two makes represent 19 varieties, most of which are shown in their display. Points worthy of notice are the free wheel and Bowden rim brake. The former is an item now too well known to need much comment, but the latter is one of the most striking and ingenious brakes that -has yet been invented. One wonders, as he sees it, how the brake acts, as the cable which operates the grip appears quite &lack and does not tighten with pressure on the lever. This brake is well worth seeing. The Bowden is only one among many kinds of brakes shown ; amongst others being the thumb brake, B.S.A. back-pedalling brake, and Humber rim brake ; but the brake which requires soecial mention is one adopted by the Humber Company some 12 or 34 years ago, but rejected by them for a while as requiring too much gear to conduct it to the handles, but i*- has now by the backpedalling attachment been converted into one of the simplest, most ingenious, and effective brakes that can possibly be fitted to a cycle. The particular feature of it is that it acts upon a flange fixed to the hub, and thus any evils of rim and tyre brakes arc avoided. A very interesting machine is an Anglo fitted with a two-speed gear and free wheel at will. This invention supplies a, want which has never before been satisfactorily filled. By moving a small Jever the machine oan instantly be changed from Jiigh to low gear or vice versa, and by the same lever being put at half-cock the machine is converted into a free wheel. Not only has it these advantages, but while with most free wheels it is impossible to back pedal, by- switching this machine on to a gear it may at once be held in check by the lider in just the same way as an ordinary machine. This advantage will be much appreciated by old cyclists, who, whilst they are fond of tlie free wheel, never like losing the control of the machine which is gained by back pedalling. One or two new styles of decoration in the ladies' Anglos are extremely tasteful, and the most fastidious could aot fail to be £leased_wish

them. The Humber machine is one that needs but little comment, suffice it to say that the latest model Beestons are very handsomly decorated and finished. Their cotterred frames that can be taken to pieces in 10 minutes and rebuilt in another 10 are a very striking feature. It might interest .sightseers to know that when examining the Beeston Humber they are inspecting the make that is ridden by their King, Edward VII, and that several European monarchs and princes are patrons of the Humber Company. One other item in the Anglo Company's display is the Victory sowing machine. Several handsomely finished specimens of it are on exhibition, and they will doubtless prove of great interest to the ladies, who may examine some of the beautiful work done by the machines. Some very handsome panels worked on the Victory are shown, and are extremely attractive. The most interesting of these machines is, perhaps, the sinkable head, a contrivance by which the machine can in a minute be turned into a very handy side table. AU visitors to the show should certainly see this very useful and ornamental household necessity.

In the same tent the New Zealand Typewriter Company are exhibiting a number of their famous and popular little Blick typewriters. These machines have only been in the New Zealand market for about six years, and yet" we are told there are already about 1000 of them in use in the colony. They are as popular with the remote country schoolmaster as with the busy city man, and it is said that there are many travellers and correspondents who always carry a Blick about with them. They are so light and compact that they may be taken anywhere, and it is said that they have been se>n working away just as well in a jolting railway carriage as upon the smoothest table. When the Blieks first cajne into the market they had their own arrangement of letters known as the " Scientific " keyboard, which, being simpler than fhe ordinary, or that known as the * Universal " keyboard, may be "picked up" more readily. However, halnfc becomes to such an extent a matter of "second nature" that those who have learned the old style of keyboard are disinclined to try the new, and to meet this difficulty the Blick manufacturers are now sending the Blicks out with either keyboaid as desired. All who have any quantity of writing to do should avail themselves of this opportunity of seeing these vevy useful little machines.

Messrs Cooke. Howlison, and Co. have a good exhibit of their Record cycles, built, vith the B.S.A. parts, finished in their usual •high-class style, and fitted with free wheels and back-pedalling brakes. Other Records show the different brakes, including the front-rim and Bowden back-rim brakes. One machine is fitted with the latest two-speed gear and free whe&l combined, making an ideal tourist machine, the different gears working by a lever on the top tube, which can be manipulated- without getting off the .machine. Cookp, Howlison, and Co. are also showing their £12 10s high-grade English wheel, made by Allday and Onion, of i Birmingham, which their Mr Howlison purj chased while in England, and they certainly I appear to be of exceptional value. i Mes'si-3 E. B. Denniston and Co. are well represented, showing a large assortment, of " their wares. The exhibit consists of ma.chmery, pulley blocks, screw jacks-, Picker1 ing governors?" wire ropes, tube brushes, engine packing, wastes, lubricating oils, graphite, lutofugc, machinery belting, and engineering requisites of every description. | The pulley blocks are manufactured by Messrs Thompson, of Glasgow, and bear the | makers' name, thereby showing they are genuine. The screw jacks and Pickering governors are manufactured by leading makers, such as Matheson, of Glasgow, and Tangyes (Limited), of Birmingham. There i» a good assortment of engine packing, square asbestos, metallic, greased fibre, Tuck's genuine, Harris, soapstone, metallic sheeting, I.R. insertion, etc. Lubricating oils of every consistency and colour, or Scotch, American, and Russian manufacture, are shown to advantage. Fleming's patent solidified oil is highly recommended, and Messrs Denni&ton and Co. state that their business in this line has more than doubled itself since the last summer show. There is also a great variety of belting, including Lancashire, Balata, and English leather, together with numerous kinds of fasteners for same. The Lancashire belting is particularly recommended for many purposes, being the strongest on the market. and not affected by heat, steam, or acids. Theve is a large and increasing demand for this heking, which the firm do well to show, thus getting it, before the mill owners and otheicountry visitors. The principal' fastener shown is that made by Jackson, which is suitable for belts large or small. Some very fine samples of wire ropes (manufactured by John Shaw, of Sheffield) are also on view. Users of oil would do well to inspect the now famous Welb's oil filter; and poultry fanciers will also find something to interest .them, taking the form of a strong, compact little mill, suitable for grinding bones, shells, and crockery. Messrs Denniston and Co. are very much disappointed at not being able to show the Campbell oil engine, for which they hold the agency. The one intended for the exhibit was landed in Wellington ex the Tongariro, but through some hitch in the transhipping arrangements it has not leached Dupedin in time.

The collection of Champion ranges shown by Messrs Brinbley and Co. attracts attention, the working and advantages of this make being explained by the man in charge. The makers claim to have been successful in turning out an up-to-date article, which gives splendid results, with the consumption of the smallest amount of fuel, while the contrivances for cleaning; have not been overlooked, so that labour in this respect has been reduced to a minimum. These ranges should sell readily, as they are very complete, while the price is decidedly low. The internal parts are all made of cold rolled steel, so that the oven will retain a good even heat. The low-pressure boilers are made of strong copper, tinned inside. Any of the ranges can be used as an open fireplace, the whole of the front opening out. The fire-bQX can be enlarged to allow of big pieces of wood being used, while there is a recess at the back, so that long lengths of wood can be burned. By pressing the grate at the back the ashes can be shot into the ashpan. There are three dampers for regulating the draught, so that the heat can be made to pass right round the oven or directly up the flue, as desired. The ranges shown are all strong and nicely finished, the castings being clean and smooth, while one with tiles sets off the exhibit. The following comprise the ranges si own: — One 3ft 6m, h.p. boiler, with tiled coving ; one 3ft 6in, wilh cast-iron coving ; two 3ft. with sheet-iron coving; one each 2ft, 2h bin, 3ft, and $t §4.

The Singer Manufacturing Company make their customary display of sewing machines, and the new 'style of cabinet work shown for the first time in Dunedin will doubtless attract a lot of attention, especially from intending purchasers. This embraces oak and black walnut, and contaias five drawers or seven drawers in either wood, whilst the head is made to disappear when tli© machine is not required for working, and the machine thus becomes a handsome flat table suitable for various purposes. Admiration will be excited by some particularly beautiful specimens of art work executed on these machines, a d'Oyley design of maidenhair fern, a drape of Japanese silk white drawn thread, and a picture of a grey horse being specially worthy of mention. Messrs Barningham and Co., as usual, are to the front with a very large variety of their well-known cooking ranges. Some of these are shown in action, with fires going and heated ready for baking, and others with high-pressure boilers heating large bodies of water for baths, etc., showing how the fire of the ordinary range is utilised and economised for this purpose. The firm make a large display of tiled ranges. These are shown in many patterns, from our old friend the blue willow pattern of our childhood to the more ornate designs and colours of modern pottery. The firm state

that they sell a good many of fhese aa wedding presents, and certainly nothing should make any young housewife prouder; of her kitchen than one of these ranges. The prices of these ranges are made to euii; all, even the best-finished being moderate in price, notwithstanding the work upon them. These ranges have all taken first class ' honours and gold medals at all our international exhibitions, and are increasing every year in popular favour. Me*>vs H. E. Shacklock (Limited |~ show an assortment of the Orion? cooking ranges which are now sol and favourably known through- \ out the colony. In the exhibit under notice! a number of different sizes are shown with'i all the latest improvements. They are made/" with high or low-pressure boilers, tiled or,j iron coving, single or double ovens/* Special fireplaces for burning long lengths of wood, which is a great consideration in! bush districts, and the fact tha<i they meet^, with a good sale from Auckland to thee Bluff, prove that they are well adapted to' the many varieties of fuel found in thel country. The long experience of the makers has shown them the best quality and graded" of metals to use in the construction, and the visitor should not leave the ground without inspecting their exhibit. Mr A. Billens, of Christchurch, exhibits the

Renboy sheep and sack-branding machine, and also the branding fluids for use in the \ machine. The construction of this handy little device has been described before. Some minor improvements on those shown previously aro noticeable, which should make the machine more serviceable than ever for those who have sheep, sacks, cases to brand. Samples of the fluids shown are very strong and brilliant in colour, and they have now been, ia use long enough to prove their lasting qualities. Messrs Niinmo and Blair have a large and varied exhibit, consisting of seeds, manures, implements, and agricultural sundries. The t seeds, manures, and sundries are on exhibi- j tion inside their spacious tent, and are dis- , played to the best advantage The seeds com- | prise tha sorts mostly used by agriculturists , and pastoralists throughout our colony, and the samples of ryegrass, cocksfoot, white clover, alsike clover, and cowgras3 clover — which t Messrs Nimmo and Blair assure ua | are -just* taken- from their ordinary stocks and not specially dressed for show — are j bright, heavy, and of fine quality. The , manures shown are of many different ] varieties-, and the farmer will see samples - specially manufactured for root crops, grain j crops, grass, etc. The manure department of Messrs Nimmo and Blair's business ranks second enly to their eeed department, and has developed into a large industry. Their Standard bone manure and Standard superphosphate -^re known throughout the. whole of Otago, A&d are- largely -used bofh north and south. ".A new. manure introduced this year «by this firm is the Albatross guano, which they have taken up after thoroughly satisfying themselves of it* worth. This manure, while low in price, is specially valuable, owing to the phosphates being in a ! very 'soluble state, thus commending itself to the farmer. Implements are represented j by the now well-Imown Planst Jr. tools, 1 these comprising Planet Jr. cultivator and riding harrow, which can be adapted for j various styles of work, and which is ehown

as Jin ordinary grubber or cultivator, as a three-drill grubber ffith *kiension tines, and : as a ' three-drill plough -witii furrowed Planet- Jr. horsehoe cultivator, etc., for -on© ( horse, and various hand implements of the Planet Jr.. make. - Specimens of the . work to be accomplished with the haiid tools are 'shown on the ground, and meet with' general approval. Other implements' j are the Pennsylvania low-down 13-tooth drill j fitted wifli patent turnip, rape, and clover seeder, turnip coulter, etc. This drill hft3 had several further improvements since iasi year, notably safety manure feeder, .whereby stones cannot break: the distributor. It is extremely handy for fitting for either grain, .grass, or manure, the alteration being- simply. "done by means of a lever. Storrie's patent double ridger and driller, a machine that ihas already proved its capabilities, is also shown, special features being the splendid. method I . of distributing the manure (which is sown before the drill is formed, and also with the seed), and its adaptability for setting up drills to any width desired. Successful trials of this machine have been held in various districts throughout Otago and Southland. Another useful implement for the : farm in this exhibit is ihe Pennsylvania 15-spring tine cultivator, with seat for ,the driver. Quite a new feature in pumps is also shown, this being a force-pump &>r - both lifting and forcing water 1 at high pressure, and intended for fitting boilers, tanks, etc., also for scouring out traction boilers. The pump maintains a large flow and withstands^ a" / severe pressure, and has 20ft of 2in suction hose and 12ft of delivery ho«e,' with all attachments. Messrs Nimmo and Blair have gone to some trouble in making a good show, and .their exhibit deserves the attention of everyone interested. Messrs Kemptfcorne, Prosser, and Company's New' Zealand Drug Company (Limi ted) make a very, effective display with chemical manures, K.P. sheep dip, Kemp's patent sheep-branding liquid, rabbit poisons, etc. Their special high-grade manures are, of course, now so well established that it it quite unnecessary for us to give them more than passing notice. As to the results obtained last season by -using these fertilisers, the manure testimonials received from all parts of Otago. Southland, and Canterbury are sufficient proof that this firm keeps up the" same high standard of excellence that first brought their manures to the front. We understand %hat their popularity this year is greater thanever. Kemp's patent sheep-brand-

ing liquidisa line which has won a name for itself -among the runholders and sheepfarmers of the whole colony. Although only introduced about three years, its sale has been phenomenal, .and increases at a tremendous rate yearly. One of the chief advantages of this brand is that it can be applied to the sheep whether wet or dvy, as it will not run or smudge. A nother- feature (and a particularly valuable one) is that although absolutely permanent on the sheep it will completely disappear when the »vool is put through the scour. This in itself is sufficient to command for it the attention of aH connected with sheep. Another very important item in this exhibit is the K.P. sheep dip, a poisonous compound, which, being manufactured in Dunedin, can be turned out at a price much below the imported article, and is guaranteed to be quite as effective ; in fact, communications received to date show that this is really the case. Slesinger's veterinary preparations are shown on this stand. The healing properties of these valuable remedies are apparently recognised by the fact of their having a successful career extending over a quarter of a. century. In special crushed bones for poultry three grades are exhibited, fine, medium, and coarse. These are just the thing for all connected with the rearing ..of poultry. Linseed oils, .Senior's linoleum reviver and tan boot polisher, Kiwi poisoned pollard, K.P. rabbit poison and poisoned grain are some of the other articles worthy of attention. The exhibit on Messrs Morrow, Bassett, and Co.'s stand worthily attracted a large amount of attention, it being one on which was displayed a great variety of farm, station, and other requisites, all of the most up-to-date design, and showing even to the keenest critics very high-class workmanship and finish. A prominent feature was, as •heretofore, the M'Cormick reapers and binders — machines which hare taken innumerable prizes in all parts of the graingrowing world, and which appeared decorated with signs of their latest honours — the gold medal, or blue ribbon, of the great Metropolitan show held in Christchurch on November 6, 7, and 8, 1901, together with several highly commended awards given at Timaru and Oamarn. The gold medal — the enly one given on the Metropolitan ground — was awarded to the M'Cormick **eapertinder for progress. The value of this award vill be easily understood when it is explained that the conditions made it open iff pcy implement or machine, whether im-

ported or manufactured in the colony, and was not oonfined to reapers and binders alone. The left-hand wide open-back M'Cormick has been specially built, with a view to move speedily and safely, dealing witih heavy crops of grain such a, are grown on the rich lands of Otago and Southland. Quite a number of improvements were noticeable on both the Standard and openback machines, which must be seen to be appreciated. Improvements have also been n>ade in the wearing parts of the M'Cormick mowers, back-delivery hayrake, etc. Messrs Morrow, Bassett, and Co. also exhibit seedsowers, cultivators, ploughs, harrows, lawnmowers, and a number of those celebrated Sterling bicycles — chain, chainless, and with free wheels ; machines which have adopted the motto "Built like a watch," and whicn are claimed to be unsurpassed for high-class, finish in every detail, and for easy running and durability to be unrivalled. The Otago Farmers' Co-operative Association of New Zealand (Limited) have a large and comprehensive exhibit of agricultural machinery, as agents for the Southland Implement Company, Invercargfll. These include ploughs, disc harrows, and cultivator, seed drill, rotary disc ridger and binder, while several other implements are also catalogued. On account of W. M. Ashton (Wanganui) the firm shows Ashton's patent sheep-holders and a case of Graham and Co.-'s Permanent foot-rot cure on account of Messrs W. A. Graham and Co., of Dunedin. On account of - Messrs D. and W, Gibbs are exhibited poisonous and . nonpoisonous sheep dips and earbolated oreosate m five-gallon drums and ten-gallon tins. In addition to these the Farmers' Co-operative show a large assortment of manures, seeds, oil, paint, etc., all of which should prove of value and interest to the farming community. Mr T. Morris, of Mornington. has a stand exhibiting his .well-known remedies — namely, Morris's Electric healing wash for animals and particularly useful in dealing with horses, and Morris's Magic healing extract, the family remedy fpa - cuts- and all such ailments. If numbers of unsolicited testimonials are a guarantee of nierit, these remedies should be very valuable indeed, and well r.igh indispensable in the household. The Massey-Harris Company show an important line of harvesting machines, consisting of binder, mower, side-delivery reaper, and bayrake, exhibited here for, the first time, proving that the MasseyHarris Company ;• «re still as ' progressive as ever. In their binder are shown several improvements which are of practical utility. The folding dividers are -a most excellent device, and one which £he farmers the world over have been in rieed of for some time past. These folding dividers are hinged so tliat~° they can" be" readily folded back put of the way when the binder is being transported through

gates or narrow places. The machine' is now fitted with a tubular seat support, which is very strong and of neat appearance. The folding dividers and the tubular seat support are the features which strike the attention of an onlooker at the first I glance^ but there are several other improvements which are not less valuable, as, for example, the trip dog or starting pawl, which has been remodelled and fitted with a strong coil spring, which possesses excellent wearing qualities. There is also the four-point clutch, which is sure to be appreciated, -and the set-screw at the end of the shafir admits -of adjusting the shaft so as to take up any wear in the gear wheels. The sprocket dri^e wheel and the bevel wheel 1 aye been enlarged considerably, thereby conducing to lessen the friction on the chain and add to its wearing qualities. Thp inside cross angle sill on the platform is of approved shape, and is so constructed as to ensure great strength, and the pinion on the crank shaft is now' securely fastened by two pins. The Massey-Harris No. 7 mower, with back-deliv ery attachment, is an up-to-date machine in every particular, and embodies all that human ingenuity and mechanical skill can devise. It is fitted with a traoker board or swathe divider, with a projecting steel shoe, which not only adds vastly to the wearing qualities of the divider, but also greatly assists in separating the cut from the uncut fjrass. In both the side-delivery reaper and the frictiondump hayrake there are so many improvements that space willjiot permit o,f a description. There is no doubt that both machines will attract considerable attention. Among the other exhibits on this stand — all coming from the same manufactory in Canada — may be mentioned the Massey-Harris one-horse mower, a hay tedder, a turnip slicer and pulper, the wellknown Massey-Harris combined cultivator and grain sower, a grain and fertiliser drill with turnip sowing and cultivating attachments, and a varied assortment of ploughs, harnows, and horsehoes.

A very attractive stand was that set up by Mr W. Barrow, the travelling representative of Cadburys. of cocoa fame. Mr Barrow was installed •behind a counter from whence he dispensed cups of delicious cocoa in dainty cups and saucers. Free samples of cocoa were given away, so that the. public could take it home and test its merits for themselves. He also dibplayed litho. prints showing scenes in Messrs Cadbury's plantations in Trinidad, West Indies, depicting the gathering and drying of the cocoa pods prior to their export. Samples of the raw material from the pod to the refined block chocolate were also on view, and repayed inspection. For purposes of coniparison the "cocoa beans from West Africa and Asia were placed beside the West Indian product, but it is said that it takes an expert to tell the difference between the cocoas , made from the three varieties.

Notice of other exhibits will appear in to-morrow's issue. The following is the prize list : —