NEW ZEALAND AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY'S EXHIBITION, 1872.

Daily Southern Cross, Volume XXVIII, Issue 4744, 7 November 1872, Page 2

NEW ZEALAND AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY'S EXHIBITION, 1872.

In our last year's report of the Agricultura Society's Exhibition, we macU tfxa following remark :—": — " It must have been with no small feeliugof plea&uie to our Auckland pablic that it was e<*nca together to witness one of the most interesting exhibitions of the kind ever yet held in the province, and which we heartily hope will be eclipsed by the next annual show, and each one succeecimg in its turn, until Auckland's shall be reckoned worthy of ranking with the best exhibitions in this or any of the sister colonies." So we lepeat the same expression with regard to yesterday's exhibition that we did in 1871. The present show as far surpassed that of last year as we hope next year's will sarpass this. Leaving out of consideration that these exhibitions always afford great delight to all classes of spectators who make such occasions gala days and a time of rejoicing, and viewing them only in their utilitarian aspect, the advantages derivable from them are incalculable to the practical agriculturist in advancing his knowledge of the business by which he lives. Of laje much, of the vigour which haa distinguished other callings has characterised that of agriculture, and this, there can be no hesitation in asserting, is by means of farmers' associations, agricultural exhibitions, and rural societies for imparting information upon all matters pertaining to the interests of the agriculturist, the stockowners, and the sheep-farmer. Of late year 3 in these colonies, as in the home countries, agriculture has received an immense impulse both in practice and theory, calculated to improve its processes, and increase the value of its produce. For a long time men of science, on the one hand, were cautious io offering to agriculture their aid in helping forward its progress ; but now chemists, engineers, and machinists vie with each other as to who shall lay before it the most tieasured gifts. Farmers, on the other hand, slighted the advances of science and doubt ingly hailed all those benefits which she offered for their acceptance. This is not so now, when the most energetic farmers of the day are eager to bring forward, to aid in the development of their calling, all that theory can suggest or science teach, supported by that practical experience which no books can impart ; nor which ia to be learned in. laboratory or lecture - room, or by word of mouth. Agriculture, at present, must be considered as one of the experimental sciences, as its principles are no doubt demonstrable by the test of experiment, although farmers have not yet attempted to deduce principles from practice. The necessity for such a deduction is no doubt the less urgent, that husbandry is usually pursued as a purely practical art ; and the facility of thus pursuing it successfully of course renders practical men indifferent to science, as they consider it unnecessary to burden their minds with scientific results whilst practice is sufficient for their purpose. Could the man of practice, however, supply the man of science with a series of accurate observations on the leading operations of the farm, the principles of these might be truly evolved. But the greatest obstacle to the advancement of scientific agriculture is to be sought for in the want of acquaintance of men of science with practical agriculture. If the man of science would become acquainted with practice much greater advantage in scientific agriculture might be expected than if the practical man was to become a man of science, because the latter is best capable of conducting scientific research, and so could best understand the relations which his investigations bear to practice. In short, until the facts of husbandry are acquired by men of science, they will in vain endeavour to construct a satisfactory theory ol agriculture. But, perhaps, no subject connected with farming has given rise to so much discussion, and to such a variety of opinions, as that of the education best fitted for those engaged — as a Jarge proportion of young colonists are certain to be- in agricultural pursuits, as either employers or employe's, and how most practically that education should be imparted. It says very little for the public interest taken in a pursuit second to none in importance that the Government, while fostering other interests, leaves agriculture entirely to itself. This, however, is really little to he wondered at if we consider the almost utter indifference with which, until only very lately, the subject has been treated by farmers themselves. But a change for the better in these matters is, we are glad to see, taking place ; and there is a strong desire now generally expresc3d, by means being adopted with the aid of the Colonial and Provincial Governments, to introduce a course of teaching suited for all classes of agriculturists. The difficulties doubtless in the way of inaugurating a proper system, capable of being carried out in all its districts, are certainly great, but nothing hut what energy and perseverance may overcome. We quote the following from a pamphlet of Mr. T. D. Acland, a gentleman who has done so much to forward the interests of agriculture : "If we consider on what powers of nature human food depends, it is surprising how many departments of knowledge may contribute to the result. How' plants grow, and how animals feed, why some thrive and others are stunted, are questions as yet imperfectly answered ; but they are the subject matter of the science of physiology — a science the comprehension of whi^h implies an accurate knowledge of chemistry and of the general principles of natural philosophy. The constitution of the soil, the varieties of strata, are taught by mineralogy and geology. Draining in its present advanced state depends on the Jaws of hydrostatics. The economy of farm labour requires the skilful application of the laws of mechanics. These are all matters of fact, plain, broad, and palpable, entering into the simplest arrangements of a well-conducted farm. But if we go into more delicate Bubjects, how much is the produce ,of the farm affected by heat and light, perhaps by electricity, by the complicated agencies of climate included in the province of meteorology! To the subjects already named must be added the diseases of vegetables and animals, and the intricate questions involved in the high art of breeding. In addition to what belongs to agriculture, as a food-producing art, the faitner requires knowledge of the principles which affect the rates of wages, profits, rents, — principles taught by political econmy, but having a most important bearing on the question— Will it pay?" We have been induced to make these preliminary remarks because this journal has always taken the liveliest interest in agricultural matteis, feeling, as those who think at all must feel, that the industrial products of the soil must form the very backbone of our colonial prosperity. It is only a question of time when our goldfields will have become exhausted ; for it is certain that every ounce of the I precious ore taken out of the earth leaves just that much less in it. There is no second or third harvest. We cannot find two ounces where there was only one ounce before. But, by good farming, the yield of the soil of this year shall be superior in quantity and quality to the last ; and the succeeding year again superior to this. The mineral wealth of a country must decrease with time, but not so its agricultural products, A good Providence haa so ordered it that the true happiness and permanent prosperity of nations is entrusted to the hardy, industrious, temp< irate, labour-loving tellers of the soil. "In | the sweat of thy face shalfc thou eat bread. '' . Not aa a curse, but as a lesser blessing than ' Paradise, was this Divine mandate spoken. Entering into full particulars of what may be termed the Exhibition proper — that is, the show of sheep, cattle, horses, swine, poultry, and the products of the farm — we shall, in their place, render an accounfJoJ the exhibits in floriculture and horticulture. We shall notice in brief detail the result of our local or provincial industries, our works of art, and our importations of choice articles, intended to economise and facilitate labours; such articles as we are too much in our infancy to produce for ourselves, but which as we ascend from our nascent state, we hope to imitate, and perhaps to excel.

Those who have carefully and patiently gone the whole round of our Inhibition, and have insp&cted every exhibit as closely as the few hours allowed would permit them, will leave the ground conscious that year by year the material wealth of Lhe province baa increased, and that if we do nob possess the very best of everything of its kind in horses, sheep, cattle, swine, fanning implements, and appliances, we have got very much that is very good indeed —that we are far in advance of many favoured countries, and that we have just leason to be proud of the high position to which we have attained.

THh OPENING OF THE EXHIBITION" : THE GROUND: GENERAL APPEARANCE. To one who gave the subject just a little thought the spectacle at the Albert Barracks presented a contrast of a character most marked. The symbols of war, of bloodshed, and slaughter, stood cheek by jowl with the symbols of peace, industry, and thrift. Here a large cannon with its companions —a pile of iron balls. There in close proximity the plough, the reaper, the sower, and the rake, in every form of modern invention. That massive stone wall which surrounds the beautiful enclosnre, built to resist the attacks of a brave but crafty enemy, is now made to subserve the purposes of an industrial exhibition. Those opening3left forthe deadly fire of musketry to resist the attacks of an advancing foe, are now the apertures by which boys hoisted on each other' backs obtain a gratuitous view of the lively scenes passing within. Built to resist the savage Maori, it is now the dep&fc for industrial enterprise of the farmer, the producer, and the manufacturer. Where the watchful sentinel stood with loaded rifle and trigger en prise, with anxious eye scanning the distance, now stands the checktaker to receive the ready shillings for admission to a show. The rooms in which weighty deliberations were held are now used for feasting and the drinking of healths. The animals which are to provide our breakfast-table with bacon and hams look vacantly at the armoury, where were deposited sworda and pistols, powder and bullets; while the military store-room is now engaged to hold the overcoats and jackets of judges and exhibitors of sheep and cattle and horses. May it so continue. And may every annual agricultural and industrial exhibition usher in as beautiful a morniDg as the sun rose upon yesterday, and close upon as lovely and serene an evening as the sun went down with. Magnificent is the word to be employed in conjunction with the -weather. More heat,and we should have felt oppressed; less, and we should have experienced it less genial. There was sunshine without a discomforting glare; and an atmosphere pure and genial. The exhibition may be described as under four classes : —First, tha show of horses, sheep, cattle, and swine; second, dogs and poultry ; third, industries in the shape of manufactures by local artists and handicraftsmen ; fourth, imported manufactures. These will all be amply described under their respective headings and in their places. The whole of the arrangements, under Mr. John Gordon, the Society's secretary, and the Managing Committee, were perfect. There was no confusion. Everything was in its appropriate place and there was an appropriate place for everything. Nothine that we can suggest could have been better, excepting —which may probably be the case at the next annual exhibition —all the live stock should be under temporary cover. We noticed that Mr. Wiseman and other exhibitors had erected light covered sheds for the display of their manufactures. All had not done the same, l>ut the example set will no doubt be followed on future occasions. The ground was soft and elastic, with springing grass, fresh and v erdant. Not one of the three or four thousand persons present —men, women, and children —but what appeared to feel the full enjoyment which the day, so auspicious, afforded. In the afternoon the fine band, under the leadership of Mr. McComish, discoursed lively music, which so greatly tended to exhilarate the spirits of those within hearing distance of its strains. The judges had been, without exception, well chosen, and with the greatest impartiality fulfilled the onerous and difficult duties imposed on them. There were doubtless those who considered their claims had been overlooked, and who were disappointed, at the decisions of the judges. But with one ttifling exception we heard no complaints. There were refreshment booths of two classes. For those who preferred wine, beer, or spirits to other and Jess potent beverages ; and again for those who prefeired drinks teetotal. Solid refreshments were also readily obtainable. The numbers of exhibits were, with one exception only, greatly in excess of last year, which will be seen by the following tabulated statement. There were exhibited —

THE SHOW. President, His Honor the Superintend pnt; Vice-President, Mr. William Good fellow ; Treasurer, Mr. H. Vercoe. Committee: Messrs. B, Robertson, James Wallace, A. Butler, A. Anderson, John Wallace, S. 0. Macky. Secretary Mr. John Gordon.

HORSES. Judges : Major Walmsley, Messrs. Thoa. Belcher, J. P. liichardson, G. H. Selby, and George Ausfin, V.N.

THOROUGHBRED CT.ASS. Section 2 : Entires. 2 years and under, Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £1. — 2nd prize, Eclipse, dam Evergreen, sire Rattan, W. Sharp ; sire Dainty Ariel, dam Kathleen, C. Mellsop ; Young Derby, [by Derby, 0. 0. McGee. l Section 3 : Mabes. Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £1. — 2nd prize, Moonbeam, 7 years, by Pacific, dam Moonshine, sire and dam imported, 0. C. McGee ; Evergreen, by Dundee, out of Heather Bell, W. Sharp ; Young Jewess, bred by K. Graham, out of Jewess, got by Dundee, J. Snodgrass ; Kathleen, Mrs. C. Mellsop.

HEAVY-DRAUGHT CLASS. Section 1 : Entires. Ist prize, £5 ; 2nd, £2. — Ist, President (five years old), sire Redmond, dam lst-prize mare by George Buchanan, H. and J. Goodfellow ; 2nd, W. Gardener (four years old); J. Wheeler ! (three years old) ; Honest Tom (seven years old), sire Lothian Tom, dam a Clydesdale mare by Clyde Champion, J. Wallace ; Northern Hero, six years old), sire Matchless, dam Invincible, Henderson and McLeod ; Young Lord Clyde (six yeirs old), sire Lord Olyde> dam Nelly, by Blackleg, grandsire Black Champion, J. Lock. Secttov 2: Entires. Two years and under. Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £I.— lst, J. Bollard ; W. I. Taylor ; E. Seccombe and Sons, eleven months.

Section 3 : Mares. Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £1. — Ist, F. Lawiy (aged); 2ad, by Major, Brown and Campbell ; W. I. Taylor ;R. Carter; D. McNicol, (aged); F. Jagger. Section 4 : Fillies : Three year 3 and under. Ist prize, £3 j 2nd, £I.— lst, W. Motion.

Section 5 : Fillips. Two years and under. Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd, £I.— lst, by Major, T. A. Brown; 2nd, by Major, S. Fleming ; highly commended, F. JR. Claude ; J. Bollard ; M. Fleming ; J, Wallace ; W. Motion, one year old. RoADSTtits, best adapted for light harness. Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £1. — Ist, horse, W. Hay j 2nd, filly, Lenuard ; grey mare Luna, S. W. Hawkins ; roan mare Lucy, S. W. Hawkins; gelding, A. Buckland; mare, R. Elley ; mare, F. Lawry ; mare, Close Brothers ; folding, W. J Marks ; black mare, J. R. Walters ,• gelding, J. Allender.

JtsssT Adapted for Saddle. Prize, £3. — Ist, gi ey gelding, I. Gwynne ; black mare, T, Ching; gelding A. Harris; cfaeanut gelding, O C McGee ; Oscar, O. O. Ml Gee; gplding, It. Seccombe and Sons; maie, J. Wallace, Otahuhu ; gelding, W. Motion. Pair of Horses, best adapted for heavy carting. Prize, £3.— lst, W. and GK Winstone*; Archard and Brown. Pair of Hors&s, best adapted for agricultural purposes. Ist prize, £3, Brown

and Campbell ; 2nd, Archard and Prown ; Scott Brothers ; D. Thomson ; J. Wallace ; J. Bainbridge, two years. Henbeksox and McLeods Cup, value £5. — Ist, filly, Brown and Campbell colt, W. I. Taylor; colt, Scott Brothers; filly, M. Fleming ; filly, E. Bovey : filly, J. Bainbridge ; filly, J. Bollard.

EXTRA STOCK. Entire Pony, 10 hands high, Dr. Wright ; entire borse, Stonewall Jackson, real bred Cleveland stallion, imported from Beverley, Yorkshire, by Omar Paaha, dam by Perfection, granddam Pottinger, by Plenipotentiary, J. Lock ; pony horse, (Jockey, W. Crnickshank : entire, Black Arab, S. W. Hawkins. Remarks. — There was no entry in the thorough-bred class for entires over 2 years ; and no entire entered for 2 years and under was considered worthy of taking the first prize. The second prize for two years and under was taken by Eclipae (No. 3, owned by W. Sharp), a bay stallion of fine frame ; the back straight and broad, and the ribs J well arched, shoulders well set, and a gentle-looking eye, showing kindliness of disposition. Good full quarters, but not so clear or perfect on the fore legs as perhaps could have been wished. Among the thoroughbred mares Moonbeam (No. 6, owned by Mr. O. 0. McGee) took second prize. She is a light bay, with many good point ; among others, excellent barrel and shoulders, aud looking to possess considerable muscular rigour. Of the heavy draught entires, President (No. 10, owned by Messrs H. and J. Goodfellow) took Ist prize ; and a four-year-old, owned by Mr. James Wheeler, 2nd prize. President is a dark bay finely framed horse, neither deficient in bone nor muscle, with good loins and fine quarters. The owners of Nos. 11 and 13 entered a protest against the award of the judges in favour of their own heavy draught entires, both very fine horses. But there is no doubt the judges acted to the best of their judgments, and no appeal against them is likely to be sustained. Generally criticism was in favour of Nos. 11 and 13 left out, as against 10 and 9 which were respectively awarded the Ist and 2nd prizes. No. 27, an iron-grey filly, was "highly commended," a3 she deserved to be. There were those l<y no means indifferent judges, who considered her well entitled to a prize. The hor3e exhibition on the whole, though supeiior in number, was scarcely up to last year's standard of merit.

CATTLE. Judges : Messrs. George Rust, John Dow, and Alexander. SHORTHORN CLASS. Section I. —Bulls. Ist prize, £5 ; 2ml, £2. —lst, Earl of Derby, by England's Glory, 23.859, a pure-bred bull, dam Emily, by Prince Arthur, 20,535, R. and E Maclean ; 2nd, Alaimist, calved November 1, 1869, got by Earl Derby, 21,638, dam Alarm Bell, by Spearman, 17,025, &c, R. Proude ; Young Wizard, by Wizard, 25,467, dam Rolla 2nd, by Emperor, 19.569, &c, G. Cruickshank; bred by J. Wallace, Flat Bush, J. May. |2. — Bulls, 2 years and under. Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £2.— lst;, Matquis Lorn*, bred by R. Robertson, C. Hosking; 2nd, 11 months, J. May ; Lome, by Young Wizard, 12 months, G. Cruickshank ; bred by Exhibitor, J. May, 11 months; Rob Roy, 12 months, dam Young Lady Martin, by General Cameron, sire Duke of Wallingford, J. Snodgrass ; Belted Will, dam Victoria, sire Duke of Wallingford, J. Snodgrass ; W. Gardner, 12 mouths ; W. Gardner, 8 months. SECriON 3 : Cows, in milk or calf. Ist prise, £3 ; 2nd, £2. — Ist, Constant, got by Earl of Fife, 23,885, dam Bride,"Vol. XVIIL, p. 402, by Conquerer, 21,466, il. and E. Maclean; Sibyl, got by Union, 19,031, dam Selma, by Duke of Oxford, 11,387, R. and E. Maclean ; 2nd, 4 years, W. Gardner ; G. Cruickshank ; Victoria, dam imported shorthorned cow, sire General Havelock, J. Snodgrass ; May Bird, dam old May Bird, sire General Cameron, dam Lucie, sire Earl of March, J. Snodgrass ; 4 years, W. Gardner ; aged and bull calf, W. Gardner ; 3 years, J. May ; 3 years, J. May ; aged, 0. Shipherd ; aged, C. Shipherd ; aged, bred by Rev. S. Williams, Banks and McHardy ; aged, bred by Rev. S. Williams, Banks and McHardy. Section 4 : Heifers, 2 years and aot under 1 year. — Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £2. — Ist. Bergamot, it. and E. Maclean ; 2nd, C. G. Murphy ; W. Gardner ; W. T. Bassett; Flora, dam Princess Alexandra, &c, J. Snodgrass ; Lucie, dam Princess Alexandra, sire Duke of Wallingford, J. Snodgrass. Skctklv u : Heifers, 1 year and under. Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd, £1. — Ist, Anemone, 11 months, by Earl of Derby, dam Constant by Earl of Fife, 23.555, R. and E. Maclean ; 2nd, Lady Isabel, by Young Wizard, dam imported, G. Cruickshank ; 4 months old, C. Shipherd ; Alice, sire Duke of Walhngford, J. Snodgrass.

HEREFORD CLASS. Section 1. Bulls, lsb prize, £5 ; 2nd, £2.— lst, Duke of Edinburgh, 3,078, by Prince Christian, 3,347, clam Agnes by Sir Benjamin, 1,353, H. and B. Maclean Seciion 2: Bulls, 2 years and under. lstgprize,£3 ; 2nd prize, £2.— lsb, Lord Panmure, got by Duke of Edinburgh, 3,078, dam Princess Helena, by Prince Leopold, 2,697, E. and E. Maclean. Section 3 : Cows. Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £2. — Prudence, by Commodore imported, dam Primrose, It. and LJ. Maclean. Section 4 : Heifers, 2 years and not not under 1 year. Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £2. — Ist, Alice Cameron, by Duke of Edinburgh, 3,078, dam Sweetbrier, by Commodore, E. and E. Maclean ; 2nd, Lady Timaru, by Prince Leopold 2nd, 3,351, dam Princess Helena, by Prince Leopold Ist, 2,697, E. and E. Maclean. Knight's Grey, J. Walmsley; Christobel, by Commodore, imported, dam Peerless, R. and E. Maclean ; Countess of Kintore, by Duke of Edinburgh, 3,078, dam Favourite, by Stookowner, E. and E, Maclean. Section 5 : Heifers, 1 year and tinder. Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd, £I.— lst, R. and E. Maclean ; 2nd, R, and E. Maclean. CATTLE OF ANY BREED. Section 1 : Cows. Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd, £ll k — Ist, W. J. Markß ; 2nd, M. Herd ; W. T. Bassett; A. Dornwell. Section 2 : Heifers. Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd, £1. — Ist, A. J. Anderson. . SPECIAL PRIZES. Mb, Fisher's Prize, for beet Fat Ox. Prize, £5. — Ist, 2 steers, (bred by Rev. S. "Williams, Napier), J. Bainbridge; E. and E. Maclean ; 6 steers, Banks and McHardy ; 2 oxen, H. Knox. Mr. Dornwell's Prize, for the best Fat Cow. Prize, £5. — Ist, R. and E. Maclean ; 2nd, K. and E. Maclean ; J. RobertsoD, jun.; J. Walmsley ; "W . Woodward. EXTRA STOCK. Bull, Alderney, A. Bickland ; cow, Alderney, A. Buckland ; heifer, Alderney, A. Buckland ; pair of bullocks, J. Bainbridge ; 3 heifers, Herefords, R. and E. Maclean ; 1 heifer, Hereford, Tully's gray, J. Walmsley. Remarks. — The first prize given for bulls was to Earl of Derby (69), owned by Messrs. R. and E. Maclean, who well deserved the prize. The Earl of Derby was by Eugland's Glory, and was calved on 4th December, 1869. It is a deep roan colour, and was bred on the Royal estates of her Majesty the Queen. The Earl is a perfect Toeauty in form, temper, and breed. The head is magnificently set on the neck, with a fine muzzle. The shoulders well into the carcase, and the carcase a perfect barrel with the ribs well rounded. The hindiegs solid flesh to the hocks. The forequartera lovely to look upon. Hide soft and velvetty to the touch. We do not believe the Earl hits her equal in this colony, and proud the owners should be of it. Alarmist took the second prize for bulls. It is numbered 78 on the catalogue, and is owned by Mr. R, Proude. Alarmist is beautifully marked, red and white, and, but for ita hind quarters, would be -"perfect. The barrel, ribs, and shoulders are splendid. ~ He ia just -3 iyears old, and, rightly set, will be thejurejof sjqme grand stoqk. The. Marquis of Lome, a dark roan, owed by Mr. Caleb Hosking^ * has - some gop*d\ points, and we th^i^was^fairryrentitledio the first prize for, 2 - year" vbulis,t which w*s awarded to it. Amongst 'the cowa Constant 4iobk~* the first prise, $h0 fe about four years old, having

oalve<l in February, 1860. She was biod by J. S Hull, Esq , Dodlull House, Kingston, S mu.^t&hire. Constant was got by the ce'eln.i^<l J'J*rl'of Fife. The cattle exhibit", (.ikiiK them all ionnd, %vere such as the j jjtoviacc may well feel proud in possessing.

SHEEP. Jn.lyes : Messrs. W. Woodward, W. Atkin, and J. Bollard. LEICESTER CLASS. Section 1 : Rams. Ist prize, £5 ; 2»kl, £2. — Ist, T. Russell; 2nd, T. Russell ; C. Shipherd ;0. Shipherd ; \V. T. Bassett ; W. T. Bassett. Section 2 : Hoct Bams. Ist prize, £5 ; 2ad, £2.— lsfc, W. T. Basgett ; 2nd, W. T. Bassett ; C. Shipherd ; 0. Shipherd ; W. T. Bassett ; W. T. Bassett ; T. Russell. Section 3 : Ewes. Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £2. —Ist, C. Shipherd ; 2nd, 0. Shipherd ; 0. Shipherd ; A. J. Anderson ; J. May jJ. Wallace. Section 4 : Ewe Hoggets. Ist prize, £3; 2nd, £2.— lst, T. Russell ; 2nd, T. Russell ; C. Shipherd ; C. Shipherd ; A. J. Anderson. LINCOLN CLASS. Section 1 : Rams. Ist prize, £5 j 2nd, £2. — Ist, T. Russell ; 2nd, E. Constable ; by imported rams, J. May ; by imported rams, J. May; J. 0. Buckland. Section 2: Hoa Rams. lsfc prize, £5: 2nd, £2.— lst, J. May ; 2ad, J. May ;J. C. Buckland. Section 3 : Ewes. Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £2. — Ist,, by imported rams, J. May; 2nd, by imported rams, J. May ; D. S. Robertson. Section 4 ; Ewe Hoggets. Ist prize, £3; 2nd, £2,— lst, D. S. Robertson ; 2nd, J. May • J. Wallace'; J. May ; J. C. Burkland ; o. 0. Buckland. LONP-WOOL CLAS~ Section 1 : Rams of any age. Ist prize, £5 ; 2nd, £2.— lst, D. McNicol ; 2nd, J. May ; by imported Lincoln rams, J. May; W. Kerr. Section 2 : Hog Rams. Ist prize, £5 : 2nd, £2.— lst, T. Russell ; 2nd, J. Wallace ; by imported Lincoln rams, J. May ; by imported Lincoln rams, J. May ; J. C. Buckland ; W. T. Bassett ; W. T. Bassett ; Thomas Russell. Section 3 : Eaves. Ist prize, £3 ; 2nd, £2. —lst, J. Wallace; 2nd, J. May; D. S. Rabertson ; J. May ; J. May ; D, Thomson ; W. Hay. Section 4: Ews Hoggets. Ist prize,. £3; 2nd, £2. —lst, J. May; 2nd, J. May ' D. S. Robertson ; G. H. Selby; D. Thomson ; Caleb Hosking 5 W. Hay ; J. Wallace. EXTRA STOCK. Dorset ram, A. Gough, 5 years ; Dorset ewe, A. Gough, 4 yeara ; 2 Dorset rams, A. Gough, 3 months. The Leicester rani, 139, owned by Mr. Thomas Russell, was awarded the champion prize. We scarcely know how to give sufficient praise to the display of sheep in this exhibition. The judges could not but have experienced much difficulty in making their awards in this class, and must have felt uneasy in having to pass over so many magnificently bred animals, possessing length of staple for quality combined with carcase. Nos. 139, 140, 145, 146, 148, and 150, ia Leicester ; 159, 163, 164, 165, IGB, 169, 170, and 172, in Lincolns ; and 178, 177, 185, IS6, 194, 190, 198. and 197, in the longwool class : these were all good, indeed of the very best ; deep - carcased, splendid shoulders and necks, fine bone with tapering quarters, clean legs. Nothing as a whole could have exceeded them. The small difference between Mr. Thomas Russell's ram 139, and the same owner's 140, was so slight that if it had been allowable both ought to have awarded first prizes. In the Lincoln class, almost the same might be said of 159 and 163. The ram 178, in the longwool class, the owner we should think could never part with for any money that might be offered. In the whole of the classes there was not a sheep unworthy of commendable notice.

SWINE. Judges : Messrs. J. Young and J. Hodge. Section 1 : Boars, any age. Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd, £1. — Ist, W. Motion ; 2nd, L. Bye (one and a quarter years old), bred by Sir N. Throckmorton ; 2 sows, A. Dornwell ; W. Motion ; F. Whitaker (four years old). Section 2 : Boabs, S months and under. Ist prize, £1 ; 2nd, 10s —Ist, R. and E. Maclean (eight months old) j 2nd, JR. and E. Maclean (eight months old) ; 8. \V". Hawklus (seven months old) ; J. Abbot (seven and a hal f months old). Section 3 : Sows, any age. Ist prize, £2 ; 2nd. £1. — Ist, J. Abbot (nine months old) ; 2nd, T. K. JDalton (eighteen months old) ; A. Dornwell (four years old) ; JL. Rye (sixteen months old), Berkshire, bred by Sir N. Throckmorton. Section 4 : Bows, 8 months and under. Ist prize, £1 j 2nd, 10s — I*3. Boucher (Eoar and a-haJf months old), Beikshire. Altogether a very poor lob of exhibits. Generally coarse-bred, deficient in meatmaking qualities, and only poor to breed from. We have little to say in favour of any of them, if we except a very fine eight-months-old boar (No. 212) owned by Messrs. H. and E. Maclean.

POULTRY. The judges in tbis rather-neglected class were Messrs. 0. T. Wren, S. E. Hughes, and Thomas Russell. The catalogued entries in this clas3 were 25 ia number — but several post entries were made — a number considerably greater than that exhibited last year. The different varieties of domestic poultry were scarcely so well represented as we should like to have seen them. The Brahma-Pootra class was fairly represented, both by number of entiie^ and quality of those exhibited. Although this bird was first introduced into Britain from America there is now no doubt entertained, by the best judges, of its Asiatic origin, and that it is neither more nor less than a beautiful and improved variety of the Shanghae, or, as it is sometimes called, the <Jochin- China variety of domestic poultry. In America, Britain, and other places where the Brahma-Pootra has been introduced they have invariably wongolden opinions from their possessors, and we are glad to see that this variety of domestic poultry was far better represented this year than it was last year. They have the credit of being first-rate layers, and are excellent mothers. Their eggs are all of good si?e, and usually weigh about three ounces each. Were our grocers *o purchase our farmer's eggs by the weight instead of by the dozen, we believe that simple change in the method of estimating the market value of eggs would do more than anything else to improve our breeds of domestic poultry. That an improvement is needed there can be no question, and as little doubt can be entertained as to the propriety o£ largely increasing the number of poultry in the pro- , vince. Were that done we feel sure that there would be fewer complaints made respecting the ravages of insects upon our farmers' # crops. By the last census of the colony, the number of poultry in the whole province was only 184,827. It is easier and more profitable to feed domestic poultry khan to feed numberless pheasants, which the law prevents the farmer from using. A taste for poultry-keeping must be created to | produce the result,and to stop the thousands I of pounds which are annually sent out of the I colony for the full supply of eggs that colonists eat. We are therefore glad to see an improvement from last year in the i exhibits in this branch of our live stock, but could have wished for a greater variety of breeds to be exhibited. Some of j our finest varieties were unrepresented amongst the entries ia the catalogue, s|uch as the Hamburgs, guinea-fowls, &c. The Polands were only represented by one coop. Many of the French varieties of fowls would thrive admirably in this province, although the British climate is too cold and changeable for them. Making our exhibitions of domestic poultry as various as possible will tend to draw more attention to the source of increasing incomes. We are far behind the Yankees' in these things, for in the "Great Republic'- there are a considerable' number of 'journals specially"devoted to the interests "of "the breeders oj: 'domestic poultry, and,~ wtiW is' more;they find it profitable to do so. The pHzes_\ awarded., , f of tbia, class ,'ofj fine, stock were, according to the Society's published prospectus, for "any variety exhibited j best

coop of three (male and two female"), 15a. for a b'rsb prize, and 10a. for a second prize." The entries were a3 follow, and we have inserted the prizes in the order in which they came: — Brahma-Pootra, 11 months, bred from imported birds, Mrs. C. Taylor ; Brahma-Pootra, bred from imported birds, 1 year, Mrs. E. Wood (for which a second prize was awarded) ; A. E, Wood ; dark, T. Faulder (this last coop had good birds, and was awarded a first prize, but the cock had two yellow legs, and the legs were not sufficiently feathered to the te ->s for pure-bred birds) ; grey, E. M. C. Harrison ; Con N"oir, E. M C. Harrison; dark, T. Faulder. White Dorking, W. Ferguson, Ist prize ; R. Carter, Ist ; grey, J. Wallace, 2nr'i, Black Spanish, J. Bloomfield, Ist prize ; W. J. Marks, 2nd ; J. McLeod. Pure white Cochin, imported, J. Thomas and Barraclough, Ist prize. Game, J. Gillard, Ist prize; black reds, J. Abbott, 2nd; T. Lowe ; white, J. Abbott ; J. Gillard. Bantams, W. vVilson, Ist prize ; J. Abbott, 2nd ; J. Allender. Hybrids from the N.Z.C. pheasant and English pure game hen, Dr. Home. 4 pairs carrier pigeons, Longbottom, 2nd prize; 2 pairs carrier pigeons, Chapman, Ist pnze. One of the above pairs were very pretty birds, and were objects of general admiration by all who saw them. One coop Polands, Mr. Cowsile, first prize. Two ooops of Cape Barron geese (coreopsis Novie Hollanditfi) were shown, the property of the Auckland Acclimatisation Society. The parents were in one coop, and a large brood of healthy chickens, which had been hatched during the present season. We believe this is the first occasion that this bird has bred iv New Zealand. We have no doubt but the results of this poultry show will induce a greater number of exhibitors next year. The coop of black Spanish birds belonging to Mr. J. Bloomfield were excellent, but rather small in size.z c.

SHEEP-SHEA. X INC. At half-past 2 o'clock a rush was made to the enclosed circle, where the shearing was to take place. There were two classes of entries, one class for men, and another class for boys 16 years of age and under. The Judges were Messra. W. Woodward, W. Atkin, and J. Bollard. The prizes offered were pretty good, £2 being the amount of the first men's prize, and £1 the second men's prize. For the boys' entry the first prize was fl, and second 10s. There entered for these prizes, and to show their skill and expertnesa in this branch of the work upon the farm, nine men — Messrs. John Gillard, Arthur Gillard, Henry Steirson, Henry Eoutley, Thomas White, Luke Bollard, G. Parker, and W. Keith. For the boys' prizes only two entered, Masters Charles Gillard and Thomas Gillard. The regulation for awarding these prizes depended as much upon tte time occupied in doing the work as the manner in which the work was done. The time allowed to each to shear his sheep was 40 minutes. The manner in which the shearing; was performed this year was far superior to last year, the sheepskins not presenting the unsightly appearance from cuts that many of the sheep did last year. The awards made were — For the men : Henry Routley, first prize, £2 ; and Luke Bollard the second, £1. The boys' prizes were awarded in the order in which their names are given above.

LOCAL INDUSTRY. Under this head there were no fewer than 130 entries catalogued. The number ought to have been considerably increased, for while some of the exhibitors showed some discrimination in classifying their exhibits, there were others who classed all their varied exhibits under one entry number. Viewed in this light, the actual number of entries on the catalogue was considerably within the actual number of classes of at tides that were represented on the ground. But in respect to this section of the exhibition we would like to have a word with the managing committee. They discharged their duty admirably iD the classification they adopted with horses, cattle, sheep, swine, poultry, and even dogs; but surely the multifarious entries under the generic heading of "Local Industry" could have been submitted to some better classification than merely putting all the exhibits of one indidual together. Why adhere to the names of the exhibitors in this class, and these not in alphabetical order, any more than in. the classes of horses and cattle ? What connection in common has glassware with horseharness or hogskin saddles ; or what connection has a " five-inch flat rope" with "jelly" or "liquid blacking," and "fire kindlers" with "tomato sauce," or " buxf slippers" with "rotary almanacs" ? \nd yet this was the absurd jumble of a classification adopted by the committee in this section. The committee have been fully equal to the task of properly classifying the live stock sections, and they should have secured the services of at least one gentleman on the committee who was equal to the duties requiied of him in properly classifying 1 the exhibits in this large and important section. Further on in the list than the instances we have given above, we find side by side " a case of colonial-made jewellery" and "one portable boiler." That no better classification was adopted we attribute to an oversight, and we hope our reference to the defect here will prevent a recurrence of a similar mijtake on future occasions. The judges in this section were Messrs. W. Goodfellow, K. Vaile, and John Wallace. Owing to the absurd classification adopted by the committee we shall be obliged to follow the same, and enumerate the exhibits o! each firm by themselves, however different the several articles may be. Previous to doing so we may remark that a considerable number of the exhibitors had erected temporary frames over which awnings were spread, and thus protected their exhibits from the direct rays of the sun. This was an important point, especially with harnessmakers, ooopera, &c. We would suggest to the committee on future occasions the propriety of erecting a number of these sheds, charging a little more in the shape of entrance fees from those who wished to exhibit under cover. It would be a decided advantage to exhibitors, and would be an effectual protection against the chance of a few drops of rain falling from any passing cloudlet in the summer sky. The exhibitor in the s action " Local Industry" who occupied the first place in the catalogue was Mr. James Wiseman, harness-maker, Qaeen-street. He was one of those who had an awning erected, and under this he had a number of wooden frames built up in the shape of horses, upon which hia different sets of cart and buggy harness were displayed to some advantage. The first entry, 244, was a set of shaft harness, Scottish style. It was all of Auckland make, both, workmanship and the leather from which the harness was made. The set was awarded, what it well merited, a Ist prize. One set of leading harness, with brass mountings, Scottish style, Ist prize ; one set gig-harness, with silver mountings, Ist prize ; one set light buggy harness, with German-silver mountings, Ist prize ; two sets spring cart harness, with German-silver mountings, Ist prize ; six hogskin riding saddles, also made in Auckland, Ist prize ; two cavalry bridles ; one best pack-saddle ; one second best pack-saddle ; two plated reins ; two nosebags ; one set plough harness ; one set shaft harness ; one set leading harness. One lot was a large assortment of havresacks. This lot, with others, was highly commended by the judges. Mr. Wiseman had also a number of extra ex- , hibits, or first entries, consisting of valises, saddles, gaiters, green-hide and brownleather girths, and also an assortment of ladies 7 and gentlemen's saddles and bridles of British manufacture. The collection was an excellent one, and reflected credit upon the makers. We - were also pleased to seethe-gentlemen's saddles made in Auckland from imported material were equal 10 appearance, strength, and comfort to the imported articles from the first houses at home. . { Messrs. Foster and Son were the next exhibitors in the saddlery line. Their collection was not so. large as that of Mr. Wiseman's,' but many df the articles possessed gteat merit, both 'as to the • quality of materials used, and the class of workmanship. Messrs. Foster and Son's exhibits were;

—262. One set heavy dray, Scotch style. ) For this a first prize was awarded. The set was of the same maker aud same style as that foy which Mr. Wiseman received a first prize, but the material and workmanship in both cases were such that the judges evidently felt unable to decide which was the better, both being so good that they decided by an exercise of Solomon philosophy to divide the honours between the two firms. Their other entries were : — One set spring-cart harness, best plated, 2nd prize ; one set cab harness, best plated ; one set cab harness, brass mounted ; one set phaeton harness, plated, 2nd prize ; one set buggy harness, Melbourne-made, 2nd prize ; gentleman's riding saddle, Melbourne-made, highly commended by the judges ; lady's saddle and bridle, Melbouine-made, These two firms well represent what can. be produced in Auckland in the shape of harness of all kinds. The two stands were sources of general attraction during the whole day. Mr. James Rolfe exhibited — Two churns j two cheese vats ; one cheese press ; one curd - cutter ; one curd tub. The cheese vats manufactured by Mr. Rolfe were all turned, and appeared to be articles excellently made and well adapted for the services to which they were to be devoted. The curd-cutter was a serviceable article,and was awarded a second prize. Mr. George McCrae was also an exhibitor in the same line, but on a much more extensive rsale. His articles were under cover, and some of \ his exhibits were reminders of dairy | utensils in use in all large dairies at home, but which are comparatively unknown in this province at least. Entry 275 was two large barrel churns, each capable of churning at once some 60 to 80gallons of ceam. The spindle rested at each end upon friction wheels, and one of the churns was provided with a large Jly- wheel to accumulate force, and the other one had one end of the spindle fitted for a pulley being placed on it so that it could be driven by horse, steam, or wind power as occasion may require. This mode of construction is different from the churns in common use. Instead of the "dasher" being the only revolving part as in ordinary churns, the "dasher " in these large churns consists of a series of strong boards set edgewise between the staves, and projecting towards the centre of the churn from nine to 12 inches. These projecting boards emperforated here and thare with holes of different forms. A large hole is made in the side of the barrel churn for the purpose of introducing the cream and withdrawing the butter. At an obtuse angle from this opening is a small round h tie, closed with a spigot by which the milk can be withdrawn when the butter has been produced, and there is also another sm?H opening secured by a tap, which can be used as an air-vent when required. The quality of the workmanship was excellent, and although made by hand it was as true as if turned out of a lathe. We understand one of these churns was bought before the show closed, and there can be no doubt but they will become common when more generally known. This of course received the first prize. Entry 276 was a two-bushel churn of the ordinary pattern ;|277,threecheesevats,splendid pieces I of workmanship ;278,twobuttertubs;and279 two oval bath tubs. There were a number of post entries, amongst them a splendid little churn — which we believe was purchased by J. Y. Stevenson ; a large oval cheese tub capable of thickening 70 gallons of milk at a time ; and two white cedar tubs, the first made in the colony of New Zealand timber. The oval bath tubs were generally admired by townspeople, and the butter tuba and the large oval cheese tub were universally admired by settlers from the country. The articles which Mr. McCrae exhibited were of such a quality as to sufficiently stamp him as a first-class workman, if any proof were required after his exhibits in former years. John Lamb, of Riverhead Mills, exhibited a quantity of biscuits, flour, &c. There were two sacks of flour, one from wheat grown in Canterbury, and the other from wheat grown in the Poverty Bay district. Mr. Lamb informs us that the flour from Aucklandgrown wheat is worth at least £2 per ton more than flour from wheat grown in the Southern provinces. He expects in a year or two Auckland settlers will grow all the wheat that the inhabitants of the province will require, and provide a surplus also. The biscuits were of his well-known varieties — ■ cabin, pilot, saloon, sweet lunch, picnic, plain lunch, and the digestive biscuit. The last is made from whole meal, and is said to be excellent for those in delicate a state of health. The trade in the differ >nt classes of biscuit is, we were informed, very largely on the increase, especially in the island trade. James Wallace exhibited 20 bags of chaff, cv t and grown at Otahuhu. Commended. Neil Lloyd's exhibits came next. They consisted of a piece of shi. flat rope for mining purposes, made from phormimn; a coil of 3in white rope ; a coil of 3in. oiled rope ; a coil of 3in. tarred rope ; a coil of 2|in. white rope. These were his entries catalogued, but he had several extra specimens of cordage of different sixes, all very excellent. There were two Maori kits, which attracted a good deal of attention. One was made no one| knows when, and the other wa3 manufactured by natives in the Raglan district, and had been forwarded for exhibition by Mr. G. Vause. The colours in the kits were particularly bright. Mr. Lloyd received a first prize for the collection. J. S. Carrie exhibited a double-seated buggy and one spring trap. On the door of the buggy was a sort of dragon as a eoat-of-arms, with the following letters underneath: "Redeeme time." This wrong-spelt word made the buggy a laughing-stock during the day. It was awarded a first prize (for the workmanship, not the spelling). Gr. Boyd, brick- and tilemaker, .Newton, exhibited his exceedingly interesting collection. It consisted of a large number of different kinds of common field drain-pipes, ranging from 1-inch diameter upwards ; barrel drains, three sorts ; glazed socket pipes, glazed bends, junctions, elbows, tapers, syphons, sinks, tiles for surface drains, paving tiles, garden edging, chimneypots, &c. Some of the drain tiles ranged as large as 25 inches inside diameter. Thl , we believe, is the largest siz^ of pipe that has been made m the colony. Messrs. Carden Brothers had various entries catalogued, but none of their articles were brought on the ground. Mr. Boyd, therefore, had the field to himself, and he occupied the position worthily indeed. He received a first-class prize. G. D. Burke, the bellowsraaker, was an exhibitor of his wares. He had six bellows, of sizes ranging from Bm. to 15in. They were all made of Auckland material, save the iron pipes, and the tacks used in the making of them. They were excellent articles, and wei i well-finished, and drew a first prize from the judges. Messrs. Cranwell and Co. were exhibitors of rotary almanaos, and improved music stools. TLe rofcary almanacs are neat and useful articles, and are retailed at very moderate prices. They are serviceable for all time, and should be in every office in town. The chief improvement in the music-stool is the substitution of a wooden screw in place of the iron one in common use. The wooden screw lasts longer than the other, and is altogether a desirable improvement. The collection was commended. John A llender exhibited a case of yellow soap, marbled soap, soft soap for woolwashing, and purified tallow candles. The articles seemed of good quality so far as an outsider could discern, and the collection was awarded a second prize. George Akers, Freeman's Bay, also exhibited several cases of soap. It had a nice appearance, but no prize wes awarded. Warnock Brothers, aoap and candle makers, exhibited a collection of different kinds of soap, blue-marbled, yellow, soft soap, tallow candles, &c. Tha collection was a very nice one, and the hard aoap met with universal commendation. A first prize was awarded. A. Darn well exhibited largely in preserved beef in tins, corned beef in tins, spiced beef in tina, spiced beef rolled, spiced pork rolled, preserved mutton in tins, preserved tongues, potted head, neatsfoot oil, bonedust, jelly, sausages, &c. ' The collection was a large and varied one, and was of special interest to all who take an interest in the future welfare of

i the province. Mr. Dormvell received, what he well merited, the first prize. Mrs. Frances JVcNamarawas the exhibitor of a pair of knitted drawing-room window curtains, 3 yards long, 1J yards wide, leaf-and-trellis pattern, made by the exhibitor, and valued at £A. A lot prize was awarded. Messrs. W. Wilthew and Co., proprietors of the Auckland Glassworks, had a most superb collection of their fragile ware present. They were along with a variety of other exhibits in one of the buildings in the Barracks. The articles were too numerous to enumerate here. It is the first time this firm made a public exhibition of their manufactures, and we can assure them they have created a very high opiuion in their favour. The collection consisted, amongst other I articles, of bedroom lamps, lampchimneys, decanters, wine-glasses of all kinds, goblets, tankards, water-jags, fishglobes were filled with water and numerous fishes swimming about in them), globes for lamps, &c. The globes and chimneys for lamps were shown both plain and frosted and partly frosted. We would suggest the advisability of frosting the globes in the inside instead of the outside. Were that plan adopted, they would not be so subject to receive finger stains as when they are frosted on the outside. The display at this stand surprised many. One gentleman we saw come round, and after admiring the variety of the collection with evident pleasure, made an inquiring remark to the effect how many of the articles were Auckland-made. Mr. Wilthew replied they wero all Auckland- made — that he had made them all last week. The gentleman replied expressive of doubt, but did not venture a flat contradiction. Mr. Wilthew caught his meaning, and replied, " Come up to the works to-morrow, and I will let you see me make all those articles over again.'' The gentleman replied, " Ob, if that's the case, that puts an end to it." A close examination of the articles would have shown that there was no cut glass amongst the different articles exhibited ; which fact should have gone far to give assurance to any doubts that might have arisen in the minds of beholders. The collection received a first prize, which it well deserved. Miss Bessie Mellsop, Waiuku, exhibited two hats made from the nikau palm. They had a pretty appearance, and her labour and taste were rewarded with a second-clas3 prize. Mr. W. J. Oawkwell was the exhibitor, from the Crown Distillery, of one case of fine malt whiskey, distilled .July 1871, rum distilled from molasses, and Melado brandy. It was fully tested by visitors, and was highly commended by the judges. HansOhlson exhibited a quantity of bottles of his well-known tomato sauce, together with some show cards, aud was awarded a first-class prize. Mrs. R. Keals exhibited tomato sauce made in 1867 and in 1872, grape wine, &c, which received the commendation of the judges. Mrs. Colin Borthwick showed a ca^e of woollen thread and a pair of socks. The wool was grown on Woodstock Farm, Papakura, teased, carded, spun, and knitted by the exhibitor. She received a first-class prize. E. W. Grotch, tobacco manufacturer, Papakura, was a large exhibitor. He had snuff of three different kinds ; Cuba cigars, 1 box ; Emperor cigars, 10 boxes ; Tom Thumb cigars, 10 boxes ; two handsjcured tobacco leaf -one hand Virginian, and one hand German. The several articles were reported favourably on by those who tried them and were judges of the qualities cf the "weed," and the judges in this section awarded a first-class prize. James Bunn exhibited blacking, both liquid and paste, which was deemed of sufficient merit to demand from the judges a first-class prize. C. Williams was an exhibitor of blacking and his celebrated fire-kindlers, and received a first-class prize. R. M. Heighton exhibited improved durable ovens, horse racing plates, hunting shoes, plain hack and carriage shoes, draught shoes, and steel cattle bells. The bells were not of much account, but the horse shoes were good, aad the want of competitors prevented a prize being awarded. The collection was commended. Ivorman McMillan showed some good stiff carpenters' axes, square siding axes, adzes, and other edge tools of local manufacture. A first class prize was awarded. Thomas Bailey, shoemaker, High-street, waa the only exhibitor of locally-made shoes. It cannot be that he is the only shoemaaker who makes shoes in Auckland ; yet he was the only exhibitor. His collection embraced all kinds, strong and light, men's and children's. A first-class prize was awarded. J. Morrison showed two slabs of asphalte for paving. One of tnem the sun took effect upon, and disolved a large hole in one of its sides. The slabs were commended. Herbert H. Smith exhibited a collection of patent portable smoke-consuming ovens, wrought-iron ranges, improved portable cottage range, and colonial ovens. The collection was awarded a first-class prize. E. Constable exhibited 10 bales of dressed phormiim?, and onfl of Price's new flaxmilla. The sample of phormmna was a good one, but did not secure a prize. Messrs. Hunt Brothers showed half-a-ton of phormium dressed by one of Messrs. Fraser and Tinne's machines. The fibre I produced was clean and fine, and bespoke the care which had been bestowed upon it. It received a first-class prize. James Linley, of Victoria-street, exhibited a good-sized collection of axe, adze, pick, and hammer handles, made of New Zealand timber. Tney wero chiefly made from tea- \ tree, some being of. puriri. A first-class prize was awarded. Messrs. Cousins, Atkin, and Co. showed largely in wheels, spokes, felloes, shafts bent from New Zealand timber, &c. They also showed an improved whipple-tree; alvfepreserviug safety shaft coupling for buggies, which is so constructed that should the nut come off and the bolt come out the coupling would still hold good, and an antifrictive body loop. The several articles and improvements commended themselves so much to the judges that a first-class prize was awarded this firm. F. H. Lewisson exhibited a very large collection of Auckland-made jewellery, a large portion being made from gold and silver extracted from the Thames, quaitz earrings, &c. The collection was a very brilliant one, and was highly commended by the judges. Heinrich Kohn had also a splendid collection of locally-made jewelbry of all kinds, which was also highly commended by the judges, A. Heuffert gave some handsome p roof of his skill as a fancy woodworker. His works also show to very great advantage the rich colours of the woods with which our native bush is filled. The exhibits consisted of a small inlaid table, four fancy inlaid boxes, See. The table was a very superior work of art, the nali aral colour of the woods used rivalling almost the beauty of a painting. The articles were highly commended by the judges. Messrs. E. Porter and Co. exhibited a good-sized portable boiler, a galvanised-iron meat aafe, and a couple of nests of gal-vanised-iron wash-tubs ; all the work of iron-workers in the province. We were glad to be informed that the artisan who has been engaged in the galvanising of iron lately has met with such encouragement that he is about to proceed to Europe for the purpose of obtaining suitable plant to carry on the galvanising of iron on a much more extended scale than the trials that have been lately carried on. The articles were commended. , G. Whitmore exhibited a number of silk skeins, cocoons, &c, the produce of silkworms grown in the province. Some of the silk was of a rich golden colour, and other samples were sf a pure satin whiteness. 1 Messrs. Neal and Close exhibited a case of soap, made at their works, in Hawke'B Bay. Messrs. L, D. Nathan and Co. exhibited an excellent collection of different . kinds of wool, some of which was of remarkable whiteness, and the prod^e q£ their farm at Turauga.

Sir George Grey exhibited a collection of basket- willowi, six limes, four citrons of very large size, twelve lemons, twelve sweet lemons, twelve Seville oranges; a bundle of the stalks of the Bohemeria nivea, the plant from which the celebrated ramie fibre is obtained ; and three apeciea of bamboo. The fruit were the admired of all observers, and not a few wished to try their qualities in a manner other than by looking at them.

dog show. la this section there were two sets of judges, Messrs. S. 0. Macky and A. Andrews having several classes of dogs, and Messrs. Miller and Gray the judges for the remaining classes of dogs shown. The following were the prize-takera : — Sheep Dogs : Dog 9 months old, M. W. Motion, first prize j and slut, 2 years old.J. McLeod, first prize. Cattle dogs : Dog, J. McLeod, first prize ; slut, D. Sutherland, first prize. Mastiffs : Dog, aged, W. J. Smith, first prize. Newfoundlands : Dog, R. Greene, first prize. Pig dog : Dog, 2 years old, J. Macnamara, first prize. Bull dog : Dog, C. A. Abraham, first prize. Bull terrier : Dog, 11 months. G. Clarke, first priz'J ; slut, D. Gray, first prize. English terrier : 3 dogs, 2 years old, E. Chermside, first prize ; dog, two years, S. E.Hughes, jun., second. Skye terriers : No awards made, and a similar fate befel the broken-haired terrier. French poodle : Slut, 3 years, Miss Motion, first prize ; slut, — TCeane, second. Pointers : Sluts, 2 years, H. Bell, first prize ; dog, S. Morrin, firat prize. Ketrievers : Dog, S. Morrin, first prize j slut, S. Morrin, first jrize. Setters: Dog, 15 months, l\ A. Brown, first prize ; slut, 3 years, E. Wood, first prize. Greyhound : J. Bennett, first prize. Toj terrier : Firat prize, Mrs. J. Young. King Charles spaniel : First prize, R. Wvnvard.

THE DINNER Took place at five o'clock in one of the side rooms of the Choral Hall, and was largely attended by agriculturists and many leading merchants of the city. Mr. Clark, of the Cottage of Content Hotel, was the caterer, and succeeded in gaining the approbation of all who partook of the repast, for the admirable manner in. which the whole arrangem "*i ts were carried out. The chair was occupied by his Honor the Superintendent (President of H the Society) supported by his Worship the Mayor, Mr. J. <J. Firth, and Mr. Joseph May. The vice- chair was occupied by Mr. Goodfellow, of Ofcara, Vice-President of the Society. After dessert had been placed upon the table. The Chairman said he had to ask them to join him in drinking the health of her " Majesty the Queen." When they rdmembered the patronage bestowed in the home country by her Majesty and the late Prince Consort upon all matters connected with agriculture, he felt satisfied they would do all honour to the toast which he now asked them to drink. The toast was drunk with cheers. —Band : " God Save the Queen." The Chairman next proposed the toast of the "Prince of Wales, and the rest of the Royal Family. " Drunk with great applause. -Bandl; "God F' ess ths Prince of Wales." The Chairman said he wished them to do special honour to the next toast, "His Excellency the Governor," the representative of Koyalty in this colony. He asked them to drink to his Excellency's health not only on account of his official position, but also on account of his personal qualities. Drunk with cheer 3, and one cheer more. Mr. Alfked BacKLANp proposed the next toast, "Our Worthy Chairman. " In political matters they all agreed to differ, and ihey of course could not all entertain the same views as their worthy Chairman : nevertheless they muat all feel proud of a man who adhered to bis own opinions as Mr. Gillies had done. The toast was drunk amidst load cheers. The Chairman replied, and thanked them very sincerely for the honour they had don c | him. The Superintendent they would find would be always ready to acknowledge that agriculture waa the real groundwork on. which the success of the country musb depend. Whilst he held office he had always endeavoured to make things work harmoniously. (Cheers.) The Vice-Chairman then proposed the ; toast, "The Army and Navy, and Volunteers." He felt satisfied that the flag which had braved the battle and the breeze for a thousand years would not be allowed to be dragged in the dirt whilst we had Volunteers to defend it. He felt sure they would be always ready to do their duty. The toast was drunk with applause. Major Walmsley replied on behalf of the army, but at the same time regretted that a younger man had not been called upon to respond. He felt sure the localisation of the army would effect greab changes, but whether for good or evil he could not say. They migtit however feel satisfied that whilst the army had the pluck of their forefathers they would never lose the prestige which the British army had gained for itself. (Applause.) Captain MoCosh Clark responded on behalf of the Volunteers. He had hoped that, after the capital speech made by Major Walmsley, the subject would be allowed to drop. He could aaaure them that if called upon the Volunteers would ever be ready to do their duty. (Cheers.) As a, late member of the Provincial Council, he had been asked to propose the toast, "The Health of the Speaker and members of the Provincial Council." The approaching session he believed would be as arduous as any during which they had met. It appeared to him, however, they would this session have to make bricks without straw. It waa their bounden duty, however, to drink to their very good health. (Applause.) Drunk with cheers.— Band : " For he's a jolly good fellow." , Mr. Skeekan responded. He intended to imitate the example which had been set by the Chairman in being very brief, as he was quite aware thero waa a great amount of work to be done. The Provincial Councils of this country were just what the colonists had made them. With regard to the Speaker o£ the Auckland Provincial Council, he felt satisfied they had already learned with pride that the Speaker had been considered worthy of being made a Minister of the Council. In refererce to bhe Provincial Council they must admit there was some credit due for the starting of the glass works and tobaccogrowing in this province. They had also closed Bellamy's at the Council. j.t was possible they had too much government in the colony, but whatever government they had they should work harmoniously. (Hear, hear.) He had just returned from the meeting of the General Assembly, and must say his feelings of admiration for the Provincial Council had been increased for their determined action in getting through the work which came before them. He begged again to return thanks for the manner in which the toast had been received. The Chairman called upon the hon. secretary to read the priza li3t. Mr. Gordon read the liBt, which, is given elsewhere. .' Mr. Claude proposed a vote of thanks to the judges. Some of them had travelled considerable distances to be present and to do the work they had done that day. Their duties were of a very onerous and thankless character. He trusted they would give them three cheers. The toast wa3 drunk with cheers. — B<md : " For he's a jolly good fellow.'" Mr. Austin responded on behalf of the judges. He said tbe show of thoroughbred horses was very meagre, i.ut he hoped next year they would have a far better display. Major Walmsley also replied. Mr. Dow, another of the judgea, spoke upon the necessity of importing pure blood. The country owed a great debt of gratitude to Messrs. Maclean, Robert Graham, and Proude, for thejtrouble they had taken *nd money they had spent in bringing good stock to this country. (Applause.) Mr. 'Woodward, one of the judges of sheep, returned thanks, and regretted the absence of Mr. AtkiD, than whom he had never seen a better judge. The judgea had had to pass over several splendid sheep, simply from the fact that they had been placed in the wrong class. fie would suggest with some diffidence that next year it would perhaps be best to place all the sheep in one pen, and stirring them all up together, then pjck out the best.

Mr. Joseph Mat, as one of the judges of implements, made some pertinent remarks on several of the exhibits. Mr. Woodwak:d, in proposing "The Health of the Successive Competitors," referred to tha pride which must be felt by the gentlemen to whom prizes had been awarded, and mentioned particularly Mr. Maclean, whose exhibits he said would compare favourably with Hereford stock. With regard to the breed of sheep he thonght a good deal of attention had been beneficially devoted to mixing. As to horses, if a high wind had prevailed the whole of the* thoroughbreds would have been blown out of the yard. Drunk with cheers. Mr. Maclean, one of the successful competitors, responded, and in doing so said that a great amount of the satisfaction he felt was derived from the fact that he had beaten Mr. Proude. He spoke in high terms of the stock-breeding capabilities of the province, and said, with regard to his own sheep, that those comprising the whole of his run were e«[ual in quality to the stock he exhibited. Mr. Magky also responded. Mr, Prottde said his beast which had taken second prize had only been landed 12 months, and he had merely exhibited it in order to show the improvement that could be achieved. He had been requested by Mr. Maclean to refer to a bull exhibited by Mr. George Cruickahank, which had been overlooked by the judges, and which was a first-rate beast. Mr. Richardson proposed the health of the unsuccessful competitors, and in doing so said that those "who had been unfortunate should not attribute their want of success solely to the deficient merits of their stock, but rather to the fact that the animals had not been entered in the different classes to which they properly belonged. (Drunk with cheers. ) Mr. Bassett responded, and referred to the success which had attended the Society since its starting. He attributed a great deal of that success to the efforts of Mr. Robertson and Mr. Kunciman. Although he had not been successful in obtaining prizes, he did not intend to relax his efforts towards advancing the progress of the Society. He agreed with Mr. Woodward in the utility of mixing the sheep, and hoped that for the future Auckland- bred sheep would be called " Auckland longwools," and that a distinct Provincial breed would be created by breeding irrespective of established pedigrees. Mr. Hay proposed, "The health of hia Worship the Mayor of Auckland," who had given a very handsome donation as a prize, and said the well-known liberality of Mr. Philips rendered it unnecessary for him to say anything in support of the toast. Drunk with cheers. "He's a Jolly Good Fellow." I The Mayor, in responding, sa^d theinterest he felt in the agricultural advancement of the province was second to that felt by none, and he regretted that his ability to assist the efforts of the Society was not proportionate to his desire. He was amply rewarded for the slight assistance he had afforded to thd show by the success which had attended it, and was sanguine as to the future efforts of the Society, and the progress of the agricultural interests of the province. Mr. Hurst had to propose the health of three other gentlemen who had given special prizes — Mr. John Fisher, Mr. Dornwell, and Mr. Kohn. In alluding to the exhibits of cattle for whick the prizes giren by the two former gentlemen were awarded, Mr. Hurst expressed his regret that, in one case, the animal had been bred from a neighbouring province, and urged upon gentlemen engaged in pastoral pursuits to continue their efforts so as to be able to surpass the products of other provinces. Mr. Alfred Buckland remarked that the land in the province of Auckland could not produce oxen of as good quality as those bred in the neighbouring provinces. Mr. Woodward proposed the ' ' Commerce of Auckland, " which he inseparably connected with the agricultural and pastoral interests of the province. Without commerce they could not expect those interests to advance, as their hope as agriculturists was in being exporters. He referred particularly to the export of meat, and to the market afforded for this article in Great Britain, which it should be the aim of the meat producers of the province to supply. (Drunk with cheers.) Mr. MoCosh Clark responded. He agreed with the last speaker, that the agricultural and commercial interests were closely blended together, and referred to the antagonism which at our time was said to exist between town and country, stating that the success which had attended the last two shows was sufficient to prove that no such antagonism existed. If the agriculturists would start a sugar manufacture from beet he could promise on behalf of the com. mercial interest that they would ba assisted. He referred to the local industries as one of the mo3timportant features of the Show, and thought that they should be encouraged by bonuses judiciously awarded. Mr. Firth proposed "The Health of the Agricultural Interest" in a lengthy speech, in which he said he considered the farming at present carried on in this province as of a speculative character, and referred to the deterioration in the Equality of the wheat of South Australia and California, as a result of such a system would necessitate the unreasonable abstraction of phosphorus from the ground. He also alluded to the difficulties which the farmers of the province had had to contend agaiDsb owing to the high rents, and congratulated them on an improvement iv that respect. He dwelt upon the neglect of agricultural labour, urging the farmers to cooperate with a view of economising labour not by reducing prices, but by obtaining skilled labour and high-class implements. (Drunk with cheers. ) Mr. Barrett in responding said the thanks of the Society were due to Mr. Firth for his support. Mr. Wallace in a short speech proposed the health of the City Council, the city exhibitors, and the authorities from whom they had obtained the use of the Albert Barracks. He alluded to the willingness exhibited on all sides to further the objects of the Society, and make the show a success. Mr. Whitsok briefly proposed the health of the Agricultural Society, which was responded to by Mr. Woodward. The Chairman alao returned thanks as President of the Agricultural Society for the manner in which the toast had been received. He saitl that soc : al gatherings like the one they were then engaged in, where the agriculturist, the merchant, and the tradesman met together for the common purpose of sustaining and encouraging the industries of the country, were calculated to produce the bast results. The occupation of the farmer was one of the noblest and most important, and it was the interest and duty of all classes to countenance him in hia efforts to extend settlement and add to the value and extent of the productions of the country. John Gordon, Esq., M.P.0., proposed a vote of thanks to the Auckland Press for the uniform zeal and frieudliness it had always manifested on behalf of the farming interest of the province. 3Mr. H. Ellis acknowledged the compliment. After a few remarks, in which he referred to the powerful influence of the Press for good or evil in whatever cause it might engage, he expressed a hope that neither New Zealand nor the province of Auckland would never lack a section of the Press able and willing to heartily advocate the cause of the country interest. A vote of thanks to the ladies was pro posed by Mr. Sheehait, and acknowledged by Mr. Bassett. Thisjbrought the proceedings to a close.

The Hape Creek stone quarry bids fair to become an industry of considerable importance t6 the field as it is developed in the hands of Messrs. D. Tookey and D Stewart. These gentlemen have undertaken a large contract, to supply flagging to the Auckland City Council, and are now erecting machinery for sawing and squaring the blocks, as required in terms of the contract— Advertise^.

This Year. Horses ... 68 ... Cattle .. 66 ... Sheep ... 71 ... Swine ... 13 ... Poultry ... 25 ... Local industry 163 ... Doga ... 78 ... L jast Year 44 62 62 16 8 56 36