AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITIONS

Lyttelton Times, Volume XLII, Issue 4297, 19 November 1874, Page 2 (Supplement)

AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITIONS

■ ’ *' , patron,' hi® the Superintendent ; riresldwiit. 'G,,' Gould ;: pfr j "hon. secretary, J.T. Ford:; , hou, treasurer,D^Ofoig./, > Any otange restriclMg liljerty of notion, must necessarily produce more or less ill-will towards the originators, even though a few persons may only bo interfered with for the benefit of the many, but if the restriction be judicious, the results will amply pay for waiting. The Agricultural Association, at present, affords a strong case in point. The adoption of a rule preventing an exhibitor making more than three entries in any one class, has undoubtedly given offence to a few large owners of stook, but the object of tbs rule is manifestly so good that the soreness cannot be of a lasting character, and the effect will be to the advantage of future exhibitions. -It is beyond question that some exhibitors were in the habit of making numerous entries more with , a view to inducing a sale than anything else, and thereby encumbering the Association's yardawithoutenhancing tho attractiveness of the exhibition. Under the new arrangement, however, this will be prevented—a great desideratum, considering the rapid growth of the show—and at the same time the interests of true competition will not be compromised. Naturally enough the effects of the new rule on this year’s exhibition has been to cause a diminution of entries ss compared with its predecessor, but.not to such an extent as might have been expected. The immediate effect of the restriction has, in fact, been decidedly satisfactory, and its beneficial working will increase year by year. Contrary to expectation, very favourable weather was vouchsafed for the show. The discomforting water-laden clouds and wintry winds prevalent up to late on Wednesday had entirely disappeared, and were replaced by all the best characteristics of a genial summer’s day. At an early hour everything wore a busy aspect, which increased rapidly as the day wore on. Hour by hour, the streets became more and more thronged, until it was by no means an easy matter to move on the pavements in tho main thoroughfares, and, the roadways were equally busy with vehicles of a multifarious character, from city vehicles of all kinds to rustic traps, ; the latter of which kept arriving in finch large numbers, and so laden with passengers, as to prove that the country patronage for the show would be of a very extensive character. For the first time, during what is the great holiday week of the year,, summer drajery, which neocessarlly has an enlivening effect in the appearance of any large throng of people, was generally worn, and altogether a much livelier tone characterised the proceedings of the day. , A steady stream of pedestrians and vehicles commenced to set in towards the Association’s grounds before 11 o’clock, and by one o’clock it had increased to mighty proportions. The view down Colombo street was of a very striking character, and could not fail to excite wonder as to where the vast, multitude came from.. It also induced pleasurable reflections as to the interest taken by the people of this province in competitive exhibitions of stock,, produce, and manufacture, while .the orderly, decorous conduct of all, and 'the absence of anything which could be taken to indicate extreme poverty were of a marked and gratifying character. The city’ and cabs did an extensive stroke of business, 1 and, although a much larger number plied' for hire to and from the exhibition than last year, (he harvest was so abundant that tho most grasping of owners must have been satisfied with* his receipts. The metal recently spread in Colombo street south made it hard work for* the horses, and, long ere the show closed, moaL of them looked knocked up. The rapidity with which the public presented themselves ’ at the gates of the show ground severely taxed the dexterity of the officials in levying the’ admission tax, but, the staff being composed of veterans, the work was carried on without hitch from first to last. On passing the portal it was seen at a glanre that the departmental airangements were much the same as last year. The exhibition booths, including a spacious one for the horticultural display, confectioners’ booths and refreshment bars were arranged in a line with the secretary’s, office across the centre of the ground, while the sheep,'cattle, and implements occupied the north side, and the horses the east, ■ south, and western sides of the paddock. The hotel refreshment booths were under the presidency of Mr Hall, of the 'Oxford Hotel, Christchurch ; ‘ and Mr Burnip, of the Bailway Hotel. The latter also had a luncheon booth capable of seating 300 ,persons .at once, in which be served a remarkably good repast. In rear of the hotel booths, a large array of sporting games, such as over .and under seven, rouge et noir, &c., were opened .out for business, but before a great amount had been transacted the .committee ordered them to be moved off the ground. .This is a ■step in the right direction, and one that should be followed by other public bodies. The so- ■ called sporting games have become very numerous of late, and it is high time that repressive measures were adopted. On .another, part of .the ground the owner of a .round-about had .pitched his tent, and drove.a roaring trade. Two bands of music, respectively led by Herr Buns and Mr Button were - stationed near the secretary’s office, and alternately discoursed music of an enjoyable .nature. The usual telegraph apparatus was worked under the .-supervision of the Ground committee with advantage alike to the friends of the associa- • tion and to those who desired to find persons for business or other purposes. There Was aa immense attendance of visitors during the ..afternoon, some parts of the ground being so .crowded as to render it difficult to move, about, inspector Buckley with a number of moahted and foot police were present during ,the day, .and were of great service to the Association. Since last year a fine lot of new ; .cattle pens .have been erected by the AssooiaAion. These are Bft by lift, with lour rails, i the highest cf which is 6ft from the ground, - being high .enough to prevent the cattle] « .•escaping, and yet sufficiently low to permit' ; wsons inspecting the exhibits without the ! i 'pleasantness at looking between the nils ' i riunbidg up them; The pens are all in i ’ rows, jjo that a beast can be seen to ] ge, and ; they are at the same time very t Httar than (he old pens. They are t 1 throughout of sawn timber, the t 'Mnhwfiia totara and black pine, < 'w of V.D.L. timber. ’ , n In the sheep department, 1 macrons as last year, have i ri in respect to quality, in s ion .was that the average i v known before. The 1 Pat due to any dhnibihitioa by breeders, •ule by which no I u three penis in t 'xperience hod i prevent the 1 by some a ' intended S 'eolation a ▼ed in t long li 'm- i T . * tl

and H. J. Tonered having all made additions to their flocks from oritaide the province, ’msny r of tbem lieing- frdm- Bnflahd, and selected with the grefttest care. The condition poses, Was'scarcely up to the usual mark, out Ihid is foadilV the ImMcwiMthe old pens* which it may he remarked are much too small for five animals such as are now exhibited in the long-woolled classes. It is therefore desirable that the number of the latter should not in any case exceed three or that much largerpens should be provided.: Frooeedingto remhrkupouthe various classes of sheep, Merinos are first to come under notice.' These were on the whole good, but some of the young ones seemed inclined to run too open and “ wasty ” in their wool. Some of the exhibits suffered from not being well up in condition, but on the other hand some of the Canterbury sheep, more particularly Mr Pearson’s, were in muoh bettor condition than at any previous show, Itt most of the classes, but more especially those for single rams, the prizes were well competed for. In the class for two rams above 18 months, Messrs M‘Alpine’s first prize rams, though having their wool in somewhat "bad condition, evidenced purity of breeding. They were even and well woolled all over. Mr E. Chapman’s second prize rams were close woolled profitable sheep, but not so even as Messrs M‘Alpine’s. For two rams under 18 months, Mr J. Pearson stood first with sheep, evidently got up in Tolmie’s show condition, and possessed both length and quality. Messrs M'Alpine’s second prize rams showed the true characteristics of the Australian type of Merinos, but were not even. In single rams over 18 months, Mr E. Chapman took first, and also the medal for the best rum on the ground with a sheep possessing magnificent length and quality of wool, combined with excellent frame; indeed, he would be a credit to any show yard in the colony. Mr Pearson stood second with the finest-framed sheep in the yard, and he ran Mr Chapman very bard. In the class for single rams under 18 months, Mr Pearson took both prizes with two sheep which, by an error on the part of the secretary, had been entered in the catalogue as bred by the exhibitor, instead of by Mr Tolmie. They were both in good condition, and were beautifully woolled. First prize for five ewes above 18 months fell to Messrs M‘Alpine for a fine pen. It must have been a treat to the judges to see . such even well-woolled sheep, which showed breeding in every point. Mr Chapman was commended for two pens of good, profitable sheep, one of which ought certainly to have got a second prize, not only because young sheep of no better quality obtained seconds, but because the breeding of merinos should be encouraged, in face of the large area of land at disposal for snob sheep. Mr Chapman had, for exhibition only, a ewe and lamb, the former of which was much admired by all judges, and would have taken a good prize if exhibited. In five ewes, under 18 months, Mr Pearson’s first prize pen was a creditable one, the sheep being well got up, and worthy of a prize at any show, Mr Chapman’s second prize ewes were also very good. Mr Chapman was the only exhibitor of single ewes above 18 months, but one of his two exhibits was not deemed worthy of a prize. The other showed a magnificent frame with great density of wool, and deservedly took not only a first prize in the class, but also the medal for the best merino ewe on the ground. In single ewes, under 18 months, Mr Chapman’s first prize animal, though not in such good condition as the others was certainly the most profitable in the class. Mr Pearson’s second prize exhibit was a really well-woolled •ewe and ran Mr Chapman’s very close. First honours, for ten rams'under 10 months, fell to -Mr Chapman with an even and useful lot, Messrs, M‘Alpine standing second with some of fair average quality. Mr Chapman, the Only ' exhibitor of ten e wes under 18 months, secured first prize with some profitable well-bred sheep. The Leicesters formed a good feature in the exhibition,, the young stock being especially fine. In rams above 18 months, Mr Marcroft’a Standard Bearer, a sheep too Wellknown to require any detailed comment, took first prize, and also the medal for the best Leicester -ram on the ground. Mr P. 0. Threlkeld was a good second with the sheep which carried first honours at Eangiora, and was then fully described. Mr Marcrpft’s Jock, which came second, compared with'the best for symmetry. Southern Chief, belonging to the same owner, was unaccountably passed over by the judges. He is really a good sheep, with a splendid head, and ran the first prize sheep hard at the Eangiora show. I Mr Gregg’s exhibit in the same class, was of splendid quality, and had a good head, but was rather low in the shoulder. In single rams under 18 months, Mr Threlkeld had the same three entries as at Eangiora. The first prize sheep at the latter place was entirely overlooked, while the one which took second, was on this occasion awarded first honours, thu showing that judges differ. Mr Marcro (Excelsior, second prize, was remarkably good for , body and wool, but his head was rather deficient in quality. Borton lad, by the same exhibitor, stood second. He was a nice sheep with a good head, though bis wool was a trifle inferior to the others. Mr Marcroft’s Woldman, highly commended, was also a good sheep. The class for five ewes above 18 months was, according to one breeder, “ super excellent.” Certainly there had never been so many sheep of such high caste at any previous exhibition. Mr W. Boag took the first and second honours with two pens of grand ewes, showing quality and purity of breed all over. Mr E. H. Campbell came third with a. pen of well-bred animals. Mr Threlkeld was highly commended for a lot, but a trifle inferior; and Mr Matson was commended for an even lot, which would have run the prize-takers hard if they had been in condition. He had also two other pens of well bred sheep in the class. In young ewes, Mr Boag stood first with a magnificent pen alike for quality, evenness, wool, and symmetry. He had also another lot which were only prevented from taking a prize by ithere being one deformed sheep among them, Mr Threlkeld’s second prize pen showed belter condition and size than the first prize lot, but they were not quite equal in quality. In single ewes above 18 months, Mr Threlkeld’s fim prize exhibit was a splendid one, alike for [size, .quality, and symmetry, Mr Hoag’s 1 second and third prize exhibits were both fine, u also one of Mr Threlkeld’s, which, though Out of condition, ought not to have been silently passed over iby the judges. The exhibits of single ewes snider 18 months . were fine, Mr Boag deservedly secured first and second honours, the former with a pen showing the most quality of any on the ground. Mr Marcroft took third with a ewe of'good quality, but rather deficient in size. Mr Lnxmoro’s two exhibits we» well-bred ewes, but a trifle out In quality. The Lincolns Were uncommonly good, the most noticeable feature in the department being the aged ram place. In this there were no less than sixteen entries, all of a high clasri Messrs Sutton, Bros., of Southland, deservedly carried first prize with a remarkably fine f ormed, even woolled ram, though perhaps it wag a little wanting in lustre. The medal for the best Lincoln ram was awarded to tha same sheep. Mr Lysaght, who has recently imported several sheep of this breed, stood second with a heavy woolled compact sheep, and Mr H, J. Hall third,, with i exceedingly soft handling woolled sheep, ibiting a slight taint of Leicester. Messrs ’keid and Marcroft’s Panton, highly comi, was the grandest framed, animal in but he also gave signs of Leicester r r Maruroft was commended for a : ngan excellent quality of wool. WHstm exhibited a good ram, which will no doubt show up 'ymj, and the Hon % Eobin- » ly formed imported ■■ ram, of Louriater. In single ' \ihere was a good disiu,ed first plage with * Hed sheep, much the ’.O. Threlkeld was inly woolled, hut 's,’ third prize • woolled. In ' lysaght de- , tth recent 1...1,'. . even ' - ’eal "of o rewas

; »ilv«~medal-lo» i tihebeit Lincola ewe oh tbe ground ; she wm | a magnificent sheep it every particular. In ewes under 18 months, MrKO.Threlkeld’» first prfke [pen contained a' beautiful Ttot !of !> , <^etM, : i snowing' grtit eyenneßß end go|>d i b!re6ainp ' Mr Howe’s sdconfiprizeewes were also a nice lot, bat threepensafus'efnl sheep, exhibited by Mr Hall were passed over by the judges, because, like his ram.they showed a strong touch, of Leicester blood, fn single ewes above 18 months, MrLysagbt carried both prizes with recently-imported animals: the first with a handsome, well-woolled sheep, and the second with a ewe but little inferior He also had a third exhibit of much the same stamp. The first prize for single ewes, under 18 months, fell to Mr Threlkeld for an eyeiymd heavily woolled sheep j Mr Marofoft being second, with a ewe, fine heavily looked fleece, with great softness. Three exhibits by Mr Hall, in this class, were passed over for the same reason as before. The Lincoln-Leicester sheep were far from being up to the mark, and etui for no detailed comment. The Romney Marsh sheep were decidedly good, the aged rams being superior. Mr O’Oallaghan’s first prize exhibit in'single rams above 18 months, possessed a large frame with a grand fleece and prime quality. He would have been a credit to any show yard, and was deservedly awarded the medal for the best ram of his breed on the ground. Mr Bobt. Wilkin’s Hr Mohr, second prize, was an immense size, and possessed many good qualities, but wanted uniformity of fleece as compared with the sheep that beat him. Mr Hoys’ Monarch, highly commended, showed a peat deal of quality, but from the openness of bis fleece on the top of the back we are bound to think he had a dash of Lincoln in him, though his wool was good all over,and his neck was grand, showing a great amount of constitution. Mr Boys’ second exhibit was one of the old type;of Eomney, now going out of date. In raps under 18 months, Mr Wilkin stood first with a superior animal, in fact he was equal to the medal sheep in quality of wool, end he will prove a dangerous competitor when a little older. Mr CVCallaf ban’s third prize sheep possessed a uniform eece, but his condition compelled the judges to place him third. Mr Boys had two exhibits, one of which had a great deal of quality, and his wool was superior, but he was somewhat wanting on the back. In five ewes above 18 months, Mr O’Oallaghan secured first place with some good well-bred but unevenly matched sheep; one four-tooth ewe in the lot was particularly fine, and took the medal for the nest ewe of her breed on the ground. Mr Boys was the only exhibitor in the class for ewes under 18 months; he had three pens, and took two prizes, but the sheep were not up to the present fashion, their wool being too “kempy.” In single ewes above 18 months, Messrs Palmer and Peters first prize animal showed a great deal of qualify and' a heavy fleece. Mr A. P. O’Callaghan’s second prize exhibit was of a similar class, but did not represent the breed so well. In young ewes, Mr O’Callaghan’s exhibit, first prize, showed a great deal of quality. The Southdowns were poorly represented in number, and in other respects were not up to the mark, showing not the slightest improvement upon last year. These characteristics of the display are much to be regretted. It is a great pity to see these sheep neglected, their mutton! is the most valuable of any, and there is a large area of the Canterbury plains better suited fop them than for long-wools. The sheep exhibited were not generally pure, but mostly evidenced a cross of Norfolk or Hampshire Downs. In rams over 18 months. Col. Packe took first place, with the best bred Southdown in the yard, but it was rather low in condition. Mr. Gregg’s sheep were large framed, but not fine enough fo/a prize. In rams under 18 months. Col. Packe was the only exhibitor, with a sheep which was passed for want of purity in breeding. There were no exhibits in pens of five ewes, young or old. la single ewes under 18 mouths Mr John Deans stood first, with a rather small but well bred sheep. The other exhibits were not considered worthy of a prize. In single ewes under 18 months Mr James Gregg took first prize with a fairly-bred ewe, but the other three in the class were not deemed worthy of a reward. The only exhibit in “ any other down breed,” was Mr Colahan, with a good cam under 18 months, for which a first prize was awarded. There were no entries' of Qotswolds. The fat sheep were splendid throughout, being very much superior to last year. The competition in every class, but more especially in Down wethers and long-woolled wethers, was keen. Mr James Hnrse, Kaiapoi, took the majority of the prizes, and tbe whole of his exhibits were in magnificent condition, indeed, too fat for profitable use by butahers, and it would be advisable in future to establish two different classes in fat sheep —one for those in high condition, and the other for good useful mutton. Taken all round, the cattle, of which there were eighty-nine entries, must be pronounced a really first-class lot. In catalogue order, the first exhibit which claimed attention was Mr A. P. O’Callaghan’s Plutus, by Count of Oxford. He is a roan, but not quite a perfect colour j he possesses a magnificent shoulder, and although just a trifle light behind, is, on the whole, a decidedly symmetrical animal. He was the only representative of bulls of any age, but was quite worthy the honour of a first prize, which the judges awarded him. In the three-year-old bull class, there were two exhibits, and! the. prize was taken by Royal Gwynne, belonging to Mr Fantham. This is a good bull in many respects, be is especially good behind the shoulders, where so many are deficient. To this animal was awarded the society’s medal for the best bull of any age on the ground. Of two-year-old bulls, there were three shown, the first prize falling to Mr John Deans’, Prince of Canterbury, an aqimal displaying general shapeliness, plenty of bone and muscle, and a kind skin. The second prize-taker wag a fairish animal, but somewhat out of condition for exhibition. The remaining animal in this class was prince, roan, calved Feb.. 15,1873, by Grand Duke of Kent (26289),dam.Oharming Maid,-by Lord Liverpool (22168); imported per Lennox Chstle. This animal the property of Mr J. N. Gower,; was in wretched condition 5 he will, however/! undoubtedly shew a fine animal next year, when; he has properly recovered the effects of hisvoyage t® the colony. There were four year-: ling bulls on exhibition. The first prize-taker is a promising little fellow, and should pome out strong at next show. Number two; whs rather leggy and slight generally. Tbe other two were new importations of Mr Gower’s, but in. such poor condition from the effects of sea living, that it is impossible to say any- 1 thing about them farther than that their! blood is undeniable, and that the importer off snob stock deserves that they shall do well by him. Three yearling bulls occupied the pen# assigned to them. They were .all owned by MrFantham, the youngest of the lot being, to our mind, decidedly the best of tbe lot. Six shorthorn cows appeared in their class, these were all of prime quality,tbe prize-takers especially so. But two three-year-old heifers were ahewifa, Mr J. R; Hill’s Princess Royal, the prize-taker, beinga clean made animal, though a trifle light in the hind quarters. There were seven entries of two-year old heifers. Mr A. Fantham’s Rosebud took first prize, with tbe .additjonal honour of the Association's; medal for the best cow or heifer of any age oh the ground. _ She is a good square-built animal, So good, indeed, that bis disfigurement by the Ibss of a horn was not sufficient to spoil her chances in the' good company in which she found herself yesterday. The second prizetaker, also the property of Mr Fantham, is a handsome heifer of nice colour, and most of the others were stock of unmistakeable quality. Four yearling heifers were exhibited. The first prize-taker is a promising animal with especially fine flanks, Mr Matson’s roanheifer, which scored second honours, was of good colour, all her points being specially good. The other two received from the judges high commendation and commendation respectively. In heifers, calved during the present year, there were four entries, the first prize tell to a little beauty, though rather small for her age, owned by Mr Fantham} the second prize being taken by a moderate animal owned' by Mr John Deans, There were eight in competition for the prizes for inilch cows, the first prize being very properly awarded to one of the most square built and perfect animals

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pii o» ne 4, b 7 b «Pa(l^C|^^kb)^ i (^r, ( able: bead, audios altogethep Xi an excellent, beast. The fat ,t cattle ,*era..»ll' judged! " according to value per lOOlbi to a batohpr.” Thiey Wertalniost without exception in really,, magniaoeht condition, Ufhile' inany of than* showed lots of breeding. In ziddk, there were six exhibits. Mr John Fergus]®; had a fat a gplehaidshpjdder and flank,andaltogether kfine beast: a'first prize was, to it. , The same owner had a cow winch was rightly, entered as a fat , one. Mr Qarforth’s bullock—catalogue number 312—was a decidedly choice animal. Mr Fantham’s two calve* by Boyal Gwyrine were commended) and deservedly so. The horses, as a whole, compared favourably with, last year, the draught stock being really good throughout,' and some of the ligpt classes being much better . filled than at apy previous show.,. It is to be regretted, howevhr, that some of the most useful kinds of horses were unrepresented, and that several horses entered did not put in an appearance. The blood stock first claims attention. The oUss for entires was but fairly' represented.- Knottingly, an did favourite, who . took 'jfirst honours, looked better than ever) and Castaway, the second prize-taker,,,yjps ■' in i&ptyal condition.. Defamer and, Barbarian were tpe only other horses 'shown' in tips. >,clanw; and many were disappointed , .„at )wie absence of Mr Griffith's two' entires, pf two-year-old entires, Mr Campbell's Castilian, a nice colt by Sledmere, was the only exhibit, and he received a first prize. There were no entries of yearling colts) brood mares, or fillies, excepting Mr Gammaog’s Lady Lea in the yearling filly class. This exhibit showed any amount of quality, and promises to make a fast mare. She deservedly received a first prize. The display of draught entires was fine, Prince Charlie .again carrying off first honours. He looked really well) and not having so much loose fat on him as list year, he showed to much greater advantage. Glenroy, the Second prize winner, was also in good condition. Mr Grigg’s' Traveller, a new entry in this class, was . a good animal with short legs, good bone and substance, and good ends, but rather Icing and light in the barrel. The other entries in the class were Mr Tbps. Bain’s Young Watty, Mr Cunningham's Young Watty, Messrs Dewar and M'Kellar’s (Bed Prince,) which ought certainly to have received pome notice from the judges, Mr White’s fjord Glasgow, and Sir ■ Craorpft Wilson's Campsie 111. The first prize in three year old entires fell to Mr Sheate’s Lord Courtenay, a very taking little horse with rather beefy hocks. Mr White’s Champion, a black horse with not the best'of heads and beefy hocks, but good deep riba with good constitution, and in fine condition) took iccond. Tam O’Shanter, highly commended, and Baron of Clyde, were also pxhibitpd. In two-year f old entires Mr W Boag, with Burnside, a descendant of Prince Charge, seoqred first place; Burnside is a good-boned horse, with plenty of substance, good quarters and barrel, and altogether a promising specimen, beating some of the three-year olds; in general appearance. Mr, Moffatt’s Punch, second prize, was very well grown, but ratter a plain horse, and, in the opinion of many Mr Boag’a Young Prince Charlie ought to hfive had the prize: He showed much better, breeding, with good fiat bone, and in another yisar there will be no comparison between him and Punch.' The class for mares was well filled, the quality being really firstolass. ■ ’ Mr Holley’s Bate, the taker of first. honours, was a really good bodied roomy mire, with capital; bone and substance, but rather bare in the pasterns ; she was the, first-prize l taker last year. Mr John Boag’a Miss Brojlie, second prize, showed much, more substance) with first-class pasterns, but was ratfaer.deficient in l quality. Mr Boag’s Marchioness, highly commended; was a really good mare, but just a trifle deficient in the hind-quarters. In the class for three-year-old fillies or gpldings, MrTisoh’s filly by Sir Colin stood first; she was a nice • roomy mare, fat, and rather small in the bone. Mr White’s filly, placed second, possessed much more bone and better action, with equal quality, but was not in good show condition; if well brought out next year she will be very difficult to beat. The two-year-olds were good. Mr Boag’g Flora, first prize, was a good filly, with plenty of substance, and was -well grown with short legs, being well worthy of first place. Mr Bpag’s Maggie, second prize, was a smaller filly, and' a little loose in the loin/ but possessed good action, with good quality and bone.' Mr Deans’ Jess, highly commended,, had a good neck, head, forehand, and ribs, but was rather full in the near hock. It will be a good animal in another year. The yearling colts were far from being so numerous as could be desired. Mr‘Boag’s Pretender, another of Prince Charlie’s stock, was a fine grown colt with good bone, which promised well for making a useful horse. Mr Henry White stood second with the colt which took first.honaur9.at Lincoln'.; be was a nice level colt, with any quantity pf bone, but rather out of condition as compared with the'first prize colt. The <yearling fillies were good all round, the average quality,being creditable to the show. .Mr W. Boag’s Maggie 3rd, Which took first honours; had not the best of colour, )>Ut was well shaped) with fairly heavy bone anfl ) good quality. Mr John Boag’s exhibit, second 1 prize, was a great heayy-Tkmed. roomy filly, apd though not quite so heat as the; other, should have had first prize. Mr Wallsf two exhibita, highly commended, were of a nice stamp; they took the first and second prizes at the Bangiora show. Mr WrHpag was the only exhibitor in the class for pairs ofgeldings in regular work, with a. pair ,which were by .Old Wellington.; tbey were first-class animals, and well matched. He was also , the only ex- ■ hibitor in pairs of. mares regularly wdrked together. Both his exhibits showed good quality, were in first-class condition, and well matched. The gfeldings in regular work)were a creditable lot. Mr Henry Milne toolf first ' honours with a fine gtoV horse, which was i placed first lost year, and Sir P. Cunningham ; second with a fine bodied horse, well ribbed, : .and in good condition. Mr Walls’ highlyjoomi mended exhibit wa® also of a good stamp. Messrs ■ Mathews, Bros., took the prize for dray mores .with a good animal. Mr Coskevrie wits the only exhibitor of a town carriers’ horse, which deserved the prize awarded. Mr John Boag’s Marchioness, and Mr Wm. Boag’s Maud wpre the only competitors for Messrs J- and B. H. Campbell’s prize for the] best draught mare or gelding, 6 years or under, .and ithe judges gave their award in favour of itha former.. Carriage horses are next on the list. The entries of carriage entires comprised Shales, Charger, Mungo Park, and Nobleman all of which had previously appeared'at the Metropolitan exhibition except Mungo Park, a useful horse. Shales, the first prize-taker, looked better than usual, and Nobleman second prize, should be a useful horse though we ihave seen blit little of his stock. In brood mares, Banshee; an old acquaintance,' was placed first, and Gentle Annie second. ! The latter has been a frequent prize taker. In mares and geldings, Mr J. Studbolme’s Boland, a good stamp of .a horse, and a capital mover, secured -first place, and Mr J. H. Doyle’s ohesnUt gelding; wfaioh the judges considered a trifle hea|y for carriage purposes and more fit for a brougham, second. In two-year-old fillies or , geldings, Mr Wm. Wilson, North road, was commended for a filly, of no particular merit. The entries, in the class for pairs of carriage horses were the beat ever seen,on. a Christchurch show ground, and it must have been a great pleasure to* judge such horses, more especially as last year they wore 'so inferior. Mr Murray-Aynsley’i first pair showed first-class • breeding,! and they were the moat valuable carriage horses on tfae ground. They would,in fact, ha considered, good on any show ground. They % condition,: and displayed splendid action.. Mr Htudholine’s pair, second prize, were also good, but scarcely equal in quality to., Mr Aynsley’s. Dr Frankish was highly commended for two pairs, Which last year would have obtained first and second gripes. In hackney entires the exhibits, were Young Pacific, Lord Brin,.Nana, and. Prick- t Tlsy looked well and, thoroughly fit. Priokwillow was placed first and Young Pacific second. The exhibits in the class for roadsters or hacks were a use-

sssaffioasaTw^sr better represented... Mr,Gteaga Butherfmcfa. W.4. nqt show ,«U Jin ; pqipjnendpd, sw*, nwq,little horse, (indrappeaked, to. i&oje .better than the others,thbugh yJThjJ ladies hack class hadorily twojnjffes dgcidt .tq,, account |EOr, and, cannot a plapdlike'^Mt; .pras',‘Very close between .Mr ; Oartpr’s, Albatross and Mrs unable tp between them, gave each; a first thanprobable that; if Dady Ann, had been ridden like Albatrois, the latter would hare got first, apd the former secondi ' As a quiet, well-pacfed ladies’ honO up to weight, Albatross wsas reallyfine, and he was the best hack on the ground. Mr Sayles’ Te Kdoti, a nice why little horse, rather deficient in quality as compared withthe other two, was commended. .The brOod mares were not considered worthy, of a prize. The exhibit by Dr Frankish showed the most breeding,,but was deficient in size for Weight carrying purposes. The pony classes were fairly filled, but the exhibits were of such a mixed character that the judges had great difficulty in deciding their awards., The time has come whpn the exhibits should be divided into tyro different oils see—one for ponies proper, and the other for galloways. In the pony entire class, a nice little cream coloured pony, descended from Mazeppa, took first place, the evergreen Mazeppa being placed second, and Merrilegs, which cannot properly be deemed a pOriy entire; waS highly commended. Two Shetland’s by Mr W. K. Macdonald and Mr F. Roberts, were also exhibited, In the class for cob mares Or geldings the entries were'of ordinary merit. The boys’ pOnies were a trifle better, though by no- means up to what they shonld be. In the extra stock class; Dr Frankish exhibited a very nice pair of buggy ponies, showing lots of quality and good paces, added to which they were splendidly matched. Mr Dunn’s carriage entire, i 22 months, and Mr Bennett’s grey cob, were highly creditable, and both Were highly commended.

The bigg were not so numerous as they should be, but the general quality was a slight improvement uponlast year, 1 In boars under sir months Mr' Haydon stood first and'Mr Craighead second, with two prime pigs, Mr Haydon’s being a trifle the" best* all round. In adult boars, Messrs Garforth and Lee : tool first prize with a splendid bacon pig, recently imported from Melbourne. It showed mCire quality than Mr D. Mayd well’s, second prizej ahimal.and better feeding properties. * jin breeding sows the" competition waskeen, the exhibits all showing capital' bacon qualities. Mr Maydwell took first prize with a fine animal, and Mr .Webb second with pile that scarcely deserved the distinction. It was a white and black pig, And the white—which is highly objectionable . for this countrypredominated. Mr 'Maydwell’s highly commended exhibit should have had second honours, and even his commended pig should have been placed before Mr Webb’s, jin' young sows, Mr Haydon stood first with a sister of the first prize boar. It was a good looking animal, and fully-deserved* the prize; Mr Maydwell took second with a nice little pig, low in condition, and rather deficient in length. Mr Thomas Moore’s pig should hot have been exhibited, Mr Robert TubUjah, though the only deservedly tooka first' prize for a litter of ten pigs. In!the extra stock class, Mr D. Maydwell tooka first prize for a handsome Berkshire sow.

The exhibits in the poultry classes were again miserably poor, alike in number' and quality, in fact Worse than last year. Seeing, however, that November is- most unsuitable for an exhibition of this kind, the Assp'diatibn would do Well to strike' poultry Out* of the programme altogether. The most notable features of the department were four pens of pigeons exhibited by Mr Albert ‘Williams, also a pen of Spanish fowls, of fair quality, and a good pen of grouse Cochin fowls, recently imported by Mr Edgar Williams. ! , The dogs as a whole 1 were not what they should be, a general want of breeding hjsing apparent. Mr W. Wright’s Tweed, a Scotch collie, showing a fair amount of breeding,'was awarded the first prize; but Mr.D. Maydwell’s Tinker ought to have, had it. This dog was certainly, better bred than Tweed. Mr John Wdrmald’s Jock was well bred, better than any of the others,, but. it was younger, and did not show to advantage, Mr John Steinmitz exhibited a kangaroo bitch with five pups. She was evidently a useful animal, but the pups showed much coarser breeding, The display of implements bore a marked contrast as compared with any former year, and this department ofthe exhibition never before showed to great advantage,- The number of entries was large, and the quality of the exhibits gave, evidence that, our local manufacturers have endeavoured to introduce evpry improvement they possibly can, but the committee of the association, as proved-by yesterday’s, experience, do not give so much encouragement to the agricultural; implejnSnt branch of the department -as its, importance merits. It is.a well-known fact, that, without a test of these implements it ia next to impossible to say which is most suitable for agricultural purposes, and. consequently deserving -.of a prize. An, implement may be well finished and nicely polished so as to please the eye, and,yet if; it were put to the test, it would, in most oases, be found that a j far less pretentious, looking specimen would be more practically useful, lighter in draught, and better.able to dq its work.. According to the regulations which were placed before the judges in this class,-, it was provided that implements were to he. on the ground, on Wednesday, so that they could be tried: if required. The. exhibitors complied with, this condition, and the judges declared that to enable them to arrive at a satisfactory decision a triil was necessary, but they were met with the reply, that the -committee had no ground for the purpose, and the trial condition had to be abandoned. If, in future years, a suitable piece of land on which to try agricultural implements, cannot be found adjacent to the Association's [grounds, it mighthe arranged that the trial should take place prior to the show m a paddock near some railway-station—say Addington, for instance —which would be central for exhibitors from the northern, and southern ports of the province. The dynamometer at present kept by the Association for testing the draught.of agricultural implements is practically useless, and it is necessary that another should he procured. In proceeding to notice the exhibits in detail, double-furrow ploughs are the first to claim attention, Mr J. Eeetley, of Eaiapoi, again carried off first honours in this class-with-a good, strong, welt-finished implement, with subsoiler attached. The price of this implement was £lB, and besides being I of good quality, it was the cheapest in the class. Messrs F. and D. Duncan also exhibited an excellent plough without a eubsoiler, and a first prize was deservedly awarded to it. Mr Blyth look second prize for a well finished Implement, but the Howard and Hornsby ploughs exhibited by Mr Booth did not attract much attention. In single-furrow ploughs, Mr Eeetley again came to the front with a well made one, capable of being worked with or without wheels. He also gained second prize with a plough which possessed the advantage of having a moveable foot. One of Mr Blyth’s two exhibits was highly commended. In grubbers, there was nothing new, and no competition, but Mr Eeetley*g two exhibits were both commended. Messrs P. and D. Duncan exhibited a well finished broadcast, sowing machine of their own make, in competition with an imported one of R. Reid and Oo.'s, exhibited by Mr Wilkin, and the local article, although net so good in some] points, as the imported one was £4 cheaper, audit deservedly obtained the firs prize. The rotary iron fans used in Reid and Oo.’s machine for distributing the seed are—on account of their lasting quality—-a great improvement on the brushes used in moat machines of a similar description, and the improvement which they introduce in the

oeal implemeQt makers; Mr Wilkin’i exlibit was highly commended. In hewy harWitioi' ui / tW- clawj'tatr off ; both iisrt M^r^cNMßidr paUteflßi%cilaKiNrp 3ne noticeable improvement Mr made in -hia- barrowe-dUBOe-lart exhibition iis that ‘ they . are coupled / together in zuph i way that they can 'he at once lisconnected*,andutedby”lwo horses instead kthre’efr TMrehrid-hhMftepepi-tion in the class for light chain hariWrtVapd HrVLittle was ’ awarded fitet•.jprf*b’:fer - hie exhibit. Fk the Met •' pair l of ‘ hariowk Mr Littlealso bbtaohed flwt priee ; with an Implement . priced at £5 6s. Mr Bljrth pxlibited a pair of Well-made harrows in this elass, but the entry must haw Men a mistake, is the competition .should have been in the heavy class. Mr Keetley made the ijatne mistake by £ iripba 1 pair of MiffOWs in ibis class, and- neither he. nor Mr 1 received any award. Mr Keetley obtained Iret prize for a iolimry specimen of Me; and a drill, either for com or seed, made by Hornsby and ‘ S<jo£ and exhibited; by. Hr 1. W. Taylor were -highly oomihended., Mr G. Booth exhibited a clod-crusher, ind a chaff-cutter made by Biohmpnd apd □handler. The former Was ootamended, and he latter received a first prize, being a ! inbst compact and useful implement. Mr 1 A, lohnston and Messrs P. and I)* Dudcta each exhibited an excellent specimen of farm Port, it a uniform price of £26, and the material, workmanship, and finish of each CihibitHreW forth much favourable comment from the visitors. The difference in point of merit was very slight, but the Messrs Duncan received first priM, and their rival justly received a second prize, although there were; onlytwo entries in the class, Messrs P. and D. Duncan ilso received first prize for, a well-finished, substantial farm dray. J For the best set of whippletrees for three horses, Mr J. Blyth’s exhibit—composed of wood and iron combined—obtained first prize, against an iron set shown by Mr Keetley. George Simpson and Co.; engineers; Ghrishchurohj exhibited in excellent New Zealand made threshing machine-combine with- elevator, 'Which was creditable to the province, and £ first prize was awarded for it. For the best single buggy of New Zealand make the only exhibit was by Mr W. B. Mitehell. It was manufactured by Messrs A.G. Howland and Co., and it reflected the greatest credit on the firm. It was light and strong, and finished in elegant style ; 1 in short, it Was a superior, specimen of theMoaobbuilder’e art, and was universally admired.'’ For the best set of five cheese Vats, sizes ranging from 10 to 401bs, Mr E. Ford - was the only exhibitor, but the irate were such creditable productions that a first prize was awarded to them. In extra exhibits, Mr Thomas Hfilliattas showed a windmill pump in working order, which comprisea several new improvements. The Fans of the mill are constructed according to an American patent for preventing the pump. being worked too rapidly, thus woiding injury during a storm. The rnifl is intended to lift water a height of 200 feet, and to gain increased power, the working gear is it the top near the fans, tad it ia so arranged that the pump makes One stroke for every two revolutions of the fan. - The machine Worked well On the ground, and it has the appearance cf being able to do all that is claimed for it, Mr H. Manning exhibited three cooking ranges cf his own make, which drew forth favourable remarks from the visitors. They had one or two improvements on the imported article, ind the workmanship and finish were very creditable/ The prices compared favourably with those of English importation, and the iniustry deserves support. The judges awarded Mr Manning a first prize. Mr Charles Turner exhibited a large collection of sewing machines in a tent, and, being a new feature in; the ihdw, ;his wares attracted much attention, i He iteo exhibited ah ingenious knitting machine in full -work.' Mr G. Booth exhibited 1 a ffornsby self delivery reaper, and Mf KeStley took first prize 'for a threC-horso Cambridge roller of his own manufacture. He also exiibited a two-horse Cambridge roller. A ‘arrow presser, which was commended, .was ilso exhibited by Mr Keetley. Messrs'Duncan ind Sons obtained first prize fbr twofurdnills, of modem construction, tad they also received first honours for four improved cheese cresses. Mr J. Keetley exhibited a reaping nachine of his own manufacture, and he delervedly received a first prize for it.

The display of' dairy produce, although larger than last year, was small compared with what; was expected in a province like this, which is looked ttpon as ranking first in matters of agriculture, but as if to make up for the comparatively small number of exhibits the quality of those shown was very superior, and the judges hod much difficulty in deciding upon their awards. For the best ■Slbsof fresh butter, Mr W. Dilnlop took: first prize with an excellent' sample possessing good flavour and colour. The second prize was awarded to Mr J. J. Herrick; and Mr. R. Gimblet 'came in for third prize. Mrs Streeter’s exhibit was commended. In salt butter in casks, fit for exportation, Mr J. J. Herrick showed two well cured samples, which were treated as one eihibit, and awarded first prizb. Mr J. Moffatt also Showed two kegs, which were sithilarly treated, and. the sample Was a; little inferior in quality to.that of the. first prize-taker; he received second prize. Mr 0; Shell’s !qzhihit was .of good marketable, quality and- the judges commended it. There whro only two exhibitqrs of cheese, and the two' specimens shown by Mr 0. B. Candy wCre ; excellent in quality, j The. jpdges awarded him 1 both first and second prizes. Mr W. Oroyv, the other exhibitor, did not get a prize on account of his sample being s 6 new, but it' was very rich, ahfl. of gohd quality. ' . fiad 1 his cheese been aj year old, as in the *.(rise';of Mr Candy, he would■' have been ehtiried to.a prize. v

The department for.. cured and preferred meats wasonlyfairiy'patrODised, and {hom who competed were. ; acOordipg l to; the, coinditioas laid down, persons whcP pnserrcj and cure to supply thd market itt quantities, j The whole of the exhibits had heVhwell got np and cured, and ersh the untubcessful competitors had nothing to; be' ashamed of as re* garded tbeir exhibits. Compared with fonhet years it is a pleasure to note the taste which pas recently been displayed by carers in cutting and getting Up their goods in a clsau creditable style, and, judging by the exhibits at the show, Canterbury cannot be accused of sending inferior quality to theheighbouring provincial markets. For the best hams |fr J. Beharrel, of Eaiapoy took first prise. JBHs exhibits were well puit hud of «™»n«n» flavour, in fact, it would be difficult t<TSnd t their equal in the ; province, Messrtf Watt md Co.'s exhibits were also really sfell got lip, and they, were awarded second prise for their smoked, and ‘highly, commended for their pale hams. For the beat smoked flitch qf bacon M'Connell Brothers received first lonors. The sample showed that the pork lad been well led, and the curing was unex(eptionahle. Messrs Watt and'Co. received lecond prize for their unfmoked sample, and tlr BeharreH’s exhibit was highly comnended. The New Zealand Provision Company exhibited a magnificent collection of mned preserved meats and soups of various ascriptions, which WOW much admired. out “ B i )len<Ji(l condition, and Ithough there was no competition in the lass, they were highly commended." The onuaittee would do well to appoint more ban two to judge the dairy produce and ured meats, as m most classes the merits of he exhibits- are so nearly equal that the fj®. o *' 6 yeeterday—had conrimUe diffimlijy w arriving at their awards, eoausetlwre was no third person to consult hen a dif^renoe. of opinion arose, la New Zealand nianufactures and produce lere was a fair number of exhibits, but there “,1!“ °' arrangement about them that mderedatour of inspection very tedioT istead of haying all the exhibits ’ a*i «ged on the tables, in. the tent V^ opet u C ? Wog “. e order » 80 ‘hat each hibit could be easily noted; they were ap. irently pkced wherever the exhibitor could 1: id wom for them It would be more ™ ptable to the pubhp if , the., exhibits were aged m aumencjl- order. such amkr-- ,J ngement wxU entm l hutfe extra irimble I is to be hoped that it win he earned oilt in 'i J or five gaUoncask of colonial I 3 there were me entries and four exhibitors, j

on 16th jiiiMja iS wV« '***3 .three sampjesprinr tfrwhioh tab^!. '!«««« m:« ■&. i Ssts e, ‘ and ,tpn 9 ed at £ 5 iq^H l lanes yeehighlycoinwended f ot a light ale, marked at Messrs A T o * M 1 ? n^’;? e , R 7^Uo-entered in th^° of 9 Fortjie.beet assortment nf^’ diffOrtmtkdds ofbbots, Mr E Q fin , ' Bl * goods werefc suppordnality and finish that he d« the‘first prize. There irere two «£fe* beet mould candles, but Mr Kino a-1 ha compete. Mr 1 J. Horler showed nofc plee, and. they Were the best ever 8a ®’ .at any previous exhibition. The? w«« Bl>e S got up, and had inorethe appearance of™*' 11 thahfiibalds,Tinfi*theprizfl deserved. In casks, of New Zealand It 611 suitable for* tallow, butter, or beer tin., • but one exhibit by ,Mr George Ford ■ Wa * well finished, and q first prize was awarded?* it. Messrs Austin and Kirk exhibited «i t 0 variety of drain pipes of various size. , g S they were - highly; commended by the Im’h 4 For the best sample of malt, not less tfin» bushel, there were ten entries. Mr F T “ 9 obtained first prize for a full-flavoured of malt, but the sample of barley from whfu it was made was not so good as some of; the other exhibits: Mr ? obtained the. second .prize for his tat il wa. not ntol, .o.dl mIWIS » Stoning-, ybibif. Ih. certainly a splendid sample, but we L„ 7 agree with the decision of the judges kT.? ing it before Mr Manning’s, whose exfe wae very little inferior to that of the first prize-taker. There was nothing noticeable i. the other exhibits. For the best porter E.lnnes got the first prize with a samril priced at £i per hhd, but Mr S. ManiS sample was fully equal, if not superior in quality to it. There was a marked different in the price quoted however, and thatmw have weighed with the judges in g i T i D ' thoxr awards. Mr Manning took second prize with his exhibit marked £S 10s per hhd. The exhibits of soap were all of a superior quality and far better than the soaps which are imported from Dunedin and other places in the colony Mr, J. Horler’s exhibit was of excellent quality and possessed the ingredients which as a rule, are so deficient in the soap generally sold. He received first prize. The exhibit shown by, the New Zealand Provision Company was scarcely inferior to Mr Howell’s sample • it was a little, darker in colour, but a really good soap: and many competent judges gave it credit As being better than Mr Horler's. It was awarded second prize. Mr King exhibited three qualities ,of good common household soap, bntit lacked the ingredients necessary to make it equal to the other exhibits. For the best assortment of Tweed' clothe Mr W. Pengelly was the only exhibitor with two different descriptions of Mosgiel tyveed. The double milled sample ot saddle tweed,, as it is cdlled, was highly com* mended. For the best assortment of leather, sole, kip,.calf; and for harness purposes, there were two exhibitors.. . .Both lots were well tanned, and.jfinished in a thorough workmanlike manner. Mr 'J. Smith took first prize, and Mr S- Stuckey second. In extra exhibits, Mr D. Maydwell showed a sample of boneduit, which was commended. .' Mr Keiley obtained first prize for a.well, made meat safe;and Messrs , Austin and Kirk. were highly com. mended for an extensive and varied assortmerit of poultry. Messrs A. Hombrook and Co., introduced a new industry by exhibiting some glue of their own make. There were two samples and they wets both of really good quality. The get up wai‘ equal if' not superior to most of the imported stuff. It the sample can be produced at a price that will be able to successfully compete with the foreign article, the industry will unquestionably prosper, and we wish the venture every success! Mr Hobert Boss, wireworker, Oxford terrace, exhibited an extensive assortment of wire work in bird cages, flower stands, trqiners,; garden chairs, grays enclosures, Ac.,, arid ' the workmanship displayed in them was very good. He obtained a first prize for his collection. Mr I. B. Sheath exhibited a large collection of pottery, consieting of drain pipes, flowerpots, border tiles, fire .bricks,. &c., which were highly commended. Mr A. Gee showed a‘ fine sample of calves-foot jelly which was highly commended. Mr Joseph Newton exhibited ; a number of photographs of agricultural machinery manufactured by Ransomes, Sims and Head, with all the latest improvements, and they wet* inspected by a large number of persons wha appeared to be much interested in them.

.In the classes forwool there were not many entries, and th.e competition was poor. Fot the bestbale of scoured,Merino wool MrJ.W. Ellen, of Kaiapbi, was the only exhibitor, sad he was . awarded a first prize. His exhibit! showed good length of staple and was wellgot up. There were two competitors tot the best bale- of scoured-skin Merino wool, and the New Zealand Provision company took first prize. There was a want of uniformity of length of staple in the wool, although itywas scoured more than the exhibit shown by, blr EUeu, but it was wanting in character. Mr 'Ellen was swarded second prize, but his exhibit, although not so muck scoured as the other, was more uniform m lengthof.staplo, andal together a hotter sample- ■ For the best)bale,of scoured skin, long wool, Mr J. W r Ellen was the only exhibitor, and the j udges bonsidered the sample auffieieatty good to merit a first prize.

[e . , t BLLESMEKB. l lttbsstiir, 00t.29. ir Patron, W.Bolleston, Esq., Superintendent d-' of Canterbury j President, the Eev .W.J. »• Bluett;. YiMhPmident, Mr A. »»““*■ d .fiteKtanrj, |Cr,J. Lewisj Committee— Messrs m f&ftliml, GiUett, T. Acbnd. i- D. MoornSid, W. D. Lawrence, B. Lockheed, d ’Gma&rtT SiAithSon, (J. Bi Woodman, e D. ICarthaUiJ. Osborne. , P ...; WJt; jft;. artUHf •* **& 8 K .vexed .qiuetum. the committee of the Elies i. mere Agricultural and Pastoral Association r ’'hayis 1 again altered the date of their anon 1- I i show. For gome time post, a foe!,. I i prevailed ip the dietrict that if, in oonct. r i withall other, country undertake® or i similar description, it could be held before to f MetropoUtah. iubetaiitial advantages would r accrue; 1 Wit, 'on the other hand, there were ; ' imaiy whoiheld that such an alteration would i have a prejudicial effect.. To * eß ® t; dßferenpef at .naLtbs. exhibition has !, | held a month esirjler than its predecessor, an i ! «W& 7 Mlfl»%iMelrtne'rb' hah thus become ; flr»tinthis ! part Ofthe province, and inaugu* • rated *whali promises to hoi the busied ae BBB *• yet.knpwm . Not, oply aro all W J®"* cthibdjioflrtp^er^peatea.buttheMetrqpoh i' i*. tb attend brer’ two days,- and the formerly held nbrth bf the Waimaka nrl ® be reeuKitated. These faott evidence a near j stateof .affairs in.agricultural matters, a . though.circumstances are not bo favouraD exhibitions this year as last, a result is anticipated from each. . . menoement made on Thursday was 8 P rom one, the collection of Bvpch P*" 0 ! njf any mg a favourable' comparison , previously seen in the district. The *»•*»- were, scarcely so numerous as last yearn. but this, may be easily , accounted f° ”■ The dry 1 autumn, followed by a late spring,naturally had the effect of preventing own getting their stock into anything h* 6 8 . dition, and this could not otherwise but ß the number of exhibits at any show. who opposed the adoption of an earlier contend that the'falling-off in the number on entries is due entirely to the change, bn can scarcely he admitted as correct. , g it had gome influence in this respect, as » exhibition had been held a month later would’ have 'Seen 'timd to get stock intO ,. ditipnj but on ; the other' hand, Tburs experience must ‘ toot be regarded as a , criterion of the result (hat would occur 1 autumn and spring seasons preceding the j t had been ordinarily favourable to etoc • , may bfe that the latter end 6f October won be tw r eifly, ae a rule, for paddock-fed cet j be in; really godd exhibitive conditio' this shopld not be-witho'ut its weight m “■ a permanent date* for the show, the m jjj, that the only advantage to be gained oy , mg it so early is to have it before the w

exhibitioii*. brer befbire tie prm flioel one'of the province, but file Astociaiior „3old not kt’ttu d* perhaps, of excluding mahygobd bbrses cuttle, or sheep.Thefo is ab absolnto necessity for the Metropolitan- td be the lasi nf the season, but the date'for each country exhibition should be ipermahentlyflied, m constant’ changes must have adiitulrbing influence upon breeders, and thirbtigh that s deteriorating effect upon the exhibitions. The threatening weather on Wednesday was unpleasantly suggestive of a'repetition of the discomforts experienced at last gear’s exbibiton at Ellesmere, but, thanks <to a sudden change a little before midnight, the 1 experience of Thursday was a pleasant contrast to them. A more lovely day could-not hdve been desired, not a single requisite for enhancing the eucoess of the eihibition being deflcient. The natural result of these favoaringcirCumetancea irss that the general public Hiimed ; out in much greater force than wsual.'' The streogth of the Christchurch contingent of visitors ihowed a marked improvement hpon previous years, for not only did a latge number go out by the road, but the route vid the Southern railway to Bunsondel, and thence across the plains to Leeston by faap wds citerisively patronised, the coach laid on from Dtmsandel being crowded to excess. Perhaps on the whole those'who journeyed byroad from Christchurch had the best of it, for a drive -through what is admittedly the pleasantest route in the southern part of the -province could not fail to be enjoyable with such delightful weather, and, moreover, theappearance of the crops and the progressive-changes in the landscape generally, afforded an inexhaustible subject for conversation. All the crops seen en route appeared remarkably well. Owing to the dry autumn having interfered materially with sowing, they are certainly somewhat backward for the advanced state of the season, though not so much so as might have been expected; and, oh the other hand, every patch looked as healthy is could be desired. To a judge, it was evident that -with ordinarily good weather betweek now and harvest, the yields will be considerably above (he average. The cereals principally sown are, of course, wheat and oats, aha the latter seem to be much more generally cultivated than last year. Barley was scarcely seen at all, except between the Selwyn and JJoylestoa, reaching down to the lake—where the crops look particularly flne—but here a good breadth of that cereal seems to have been laid down, especially by Overton, Bros., ahd Messrs Bruce and Coe. Of the railway, there is far from being so much that is new, to say about it, as there should be. Like all the lines now in hand, delays from want of material have occurred, and it would bo difficult to estimate when the public will be aWe to do the journey between Christchurch and Southhridge by train. The line has been formed to the latter place for a very considerable length of time, but the platelaying is not yet done to the Selwyn—twenty miles from town j while the ballasting is only completed to a little beyond Prebbleton. One new feature in the landscape, since last year, is the telegraph line, which now connects Christchurch with Southbridge, its course being along the line, of railway. Many now buildings are to be seen by the wayside, the most imposing of which is a largo store erected by Mr Rule, at SpringsWn.and there are several improvements of a like character in the township of Leeston, which is making more rapid progress than it promised to do some two or three years ago. Loe’a Hotel was naturally a busy‘point throughout the day, for, altnough soma half a-mile distant from the show ground, it was the only place where anything like' reasonable food tor man and beast could' be obtained- Certainly the cornforte.. in this respect were earned v by the long duaty walk between the hotel and the around, and it is difficultito understand why no coach was. laid on, for,if any enterprising individual, had run one at short intervals, he Would have found it a good speculation. , The vmlfcto the ground, was very dusty,.and otherwise anpleasanti The ground was, however, ia muoh better order than last year ; the grass having progressed very .well, and not being too longer comfort. The ground arrangements Urerd the same as twelve months ago, the cattle suid sheep being in- the centra, while the tents, booths, Bnd hOrseS occupied three sides of the boundary. - The booths comprised two for the supply of hotel refreshments, several devoted to-stores- of confectionery and frqit, and a marquee which served alike .the purpose of a secretary’s office,-, and a place of exhibition ' for dairy- produce. This is a combination -which should, in future be avoided, for exhibits of. butter and cheese are always the centre of attraction to a.large proportion of the visitors, and the result is that the secretary is impeded in hie work, and those who wish to get at him for business purposes have a < great difficulty in so doing. The hotel booths, which were respectively under the supervision of Mr Loe, Leeston, and Mr Johnson, IrWell, were besieged with patrons throughout the day, and a rearing trade was evidently done from firet to last of the show. Herr Biinz, with some dozen instrumental coadjutors from the city of the plains, contributed music at short - intervals during the day, and; when a dance tune happened to be given, there were plenty of lovers of the light fantastic ready to take advantage of it. The officials worked hard to makq the show <t success, and were on the whole- very successful, Mr Lewis, who for the first- time fulfilled the onerOue duties oi secretary, acquitting himself much-better than might have been expected. r . . Remarking upon this exhibits in their relative order of precedence, sheep, as usual, are the first to be noticed. This department, was a leading feature in - the show. The entries were 71, 08 compared with 54 last year, and the general quality was remarkably good. Many of the sheep would have -done credit to any exhibition,'and there was scarcely one sheep but was Worthy of ■ place in -the exhibition. The Lineolarams and ewes, over 1,5 months, were particularly fine representative* of their kind. Leicester* stood first in; qrdei on the programme!" in rams over 18 mofatbs Mr Ronnie’s exhibit, first ! prize; was a very fine animal, and Would be a credit to any breeder. He was bred by the 0. and S Company, and for wool or.aymmetry conic bo beaten. Messrs Lee and Jollie’i exhibit, second prize, possessed good sym metry and wool, bid! aid not come up t< his successful opponent either in duality oi weight. Mr Lkmbie’e ram, highly com mended, showed the beet in the olasi for symmetry, Snd possessed a splendic head, representing the Leicester breet very well indeed, no judge of long-Woolle< sheep could silently pass him by, but he wsi rather deficient in wool. Messrs Lee ant Jollie’S ram, commended, was also a' gooc animal of his kind, With a capital head; but was deficient in the loins. Mr M. S. Oampbel had also a ram possessing many good qualities but rather short In the ribs. Mr John Boaf had three entries, all good useful sheep; anc Mr Eaglesome had, one which hod about th' best Leicester head Of “any eheep on the j hut was bare on the* heck and gen- - .<■' .. 0 . w the wool. Mr J. Eentiie''’ useful ram. but with too Leicester; and Mwhich, for hes- 3 ' Lumbie hod an enti but it - and symmetry, exoellen Os’- rather light in the loms. w -uome’s ram possessed useful qualities, ot Mr Minchiner’s scarcely deserved a place i the exhibition. In. rams under 18 month Mr M. 8, Campbell took both prizes, the fir with a good sheep in low condition, and tl other with one to which the same reinai applies, with the addition that it was rathf slack in the shoulder. The entries mtJ class for ewes over 18 months were nn the class, as a whole, being remarkably goo Mr John Rennie’s pen, first prize, contain) three splendid ewes, which were the best he olaes. They were _ even, possess; plondid wool, combined with symmetry, ai cod - beads. Messrs Lee and Joins s qW< econd prize, were also good. One was p£ ticularly fine, and if the other 1 had been equ t° it, they would haye run’the first P r *ze P close. Messrs Lee and Jollie’e pen, bigs commended, contained three useful anu ev sheep, but they were deficient in quality compared with the others. Mr John iioa Pen, commended, contained three nice e a trifle deficient in quality, and he had other pen of a similar character, but wx _ drier skin, which showed them to be defioij in constitution. Mr Mincbiner scouted »

j, lg ‘ ITW W J«Wil# l bbiita.i ' .S* Mr •*• 8* Oampbellhad tWo pens of Useful 9 looking sheep, bat they did ■ dot seem quite Pttre-bwdjihd no second prize'wasawarded. 0 Lincolns were well repriWated, both" in t number and quality. In the doss for imf PQrted rams, Mr H. J. flail’s importation b from England, which I wo have previously • reported upon more than once, took first \ honours; He looked as well as ever, his wool, symmetry, and splendid constitution, being s the theme of general remark; Mr Bluett’s j ram, second prize, was a splendid woolled • sheep, and though not equal to Mr Hall’s in 1 symmetry, ran it somewhat close. Mr Bluett’s - second exhibit, highly commended, was a > good lengthy sheep, and well worth common* i dation. Bams'Over 18 months were well 3 represented, and' the judges Were a long time 5 coming to a decision. Mr MaWsott’s ram, i first prize, was really a splendid animal; and i Mr Hall’s exhibit, second pruse, ran i him close, indeed some were of opinion i that he should have taken first, but a careful ) examination of the twO sheep weht to uphold b the judges’ award. The first prize animal i had the best back, and was broader behind, t added to which jit was (he heaviest, a point r which had eonsiderable influence with the I judges, who were instructed to consider i weight in all Lincolns. Mr Hall’s was, how* i ever, a handsome sheep. Mr Mawson was i highly commended for a second sheep, which ; was much fancied by the public, but though i heavier than Mr Hall’s, it did not handle so i well on the back. Mr M. S. Campbell had ■ dne entry, and Mr Bluett two, in this class, i and all would be a credit to any show yard. ■ In rams under 18 months, Mr Hall was the i only exhibitor, he haring three entries of bis , own breeding. They were all good, and would 1 hare been hard to beat. The pens of eves above 18 months were very fine. Mr Hall ! again took both the prizes, the first with a ; pen of eWes, which were not only a groat , credit to him, but also to the i district, both for symmetry, wool, and constitution, there being nothing in the show I to beat them'in : the latter respect. Mr Hill’s > pen, highly commended, was justly entitled to , that distinction, Mr M. 8. Campbell had ■ also a creditable pen ih this class. The ewes under 18 months were also a good lot, Mr ; Hall again taking the whole of the honours. , He took first pnze with a lot of sheep, the progeny of the ewes in the class over 18 months, and they were good representatives of : them. His second prize pen and highly com* mended pen were so equally matched that it : was difficult to say which stood first. Mr M. S. Campbell had one pen, but the sheep 1 were of moderate quality only. The Bomneys were creditably represented, Mr H. P. Hill’s ram, unopposed, took first prize nr the imported class, and he is a very : fine sheep in every respect. In rams above ; 18 months, Mir A. P. O’Oallaghan stood first with a sheep which was admired by all for his breeding and wool, indeed he was generally pronounced to be the best of his kind ever seen at Leeston. Mr Lawrence’s ram, second prize, was of fair merit. In rams under 18 months Mr Lawrence secured first prize with a well-bred sheep, well woolled all over, and the second with a good sheep having a slight deficiency in constitution. Only' one prize was awarded in ewes above IS months, and this justly fell to Mr i. P. O’Oallaghan with a splendid lot of sheep, very even, and with good lambs. Mr Lawrence exhibited one pen, but the eWes were nbt deemed worthy of a second prize. Mr Osborne was the only exi hibitor of cross-bred ewes above 18 months |mt i deservedly took first prize, Eis sheep being ■ oven and well bred. In ewes under 18 ! months, Mr Bennie’s; pen, first 1 prize, cpn- ; tained sheep that would be a credit to any ■ ■ breeder. They were in good condition and • i well Woolled. Mr Eaglesome’s ewes (second i prize) were well-bred, but wefe backward jn ’ condition, Mr Loe was the only exhibitor of ; fat long-woolled wethers, and took both prizes i with ten very even sheep, in good condition, i Mr Hall, with one pen of fat long-woolled ■ ■ ewes, Was unopposed, but his sheep could , scarcely have been excelled for evenness and quality, and,they were beautifully shorn. The i entries for lambs were good, all being in much i better condition than might have been exi peoted. Mr Hall’s lot, first prize, were par- , ticularly fine. Mr John Smith’s prize for the > best pen of breeding ewes was competed for i by Messrs John Boag,J. Bennie; and j H. Jl [ Hall, the latter coming off victorious with; his i Lincoln, ewes, which took first'prize in;the i class above 18 months old. Mr Jollie’s prize • for the beat’pen of cross-bred ewes of any i cross was competed for by Mr' W. D. i Lawrence and Mr Philips, the latter of whom i won with a nice even lot of animals. • The cattle were not so 1 numerous as last ; year, the number being 41 yesterday as against I 63 twelve months ago. The book word con-’ i dition of all paddock-fed cattle is; however, . ample excuse for this, and consolation for the r decrease in numbers was found in the high , quality of the greater portion of the exhibits, i In imported bulls, Mr Bluett secured first ' place with Monitor, a Well-Bred bull, short of : condition and Bid behind the shoulder, but a i fine colour, a capital handler, arid Very good behind. Mr Cunningham’s John o’ Groat, i second prize, was fancied by a great many ■ persons. He is a good bodied bull and short i on the leg,but not so good a colonras Monitor.’ i In bulls calved since July 1,1873, Mr Bluett, i was again successful with the yice-Ohancellor, r which was a good handler, but; like Monitor, > was put of condition. Mr Docker took second , prize With a well-grown animal for his age,’ ! but not showing the same amount of quality as Vice-OhanoellPr. Mr , Bluett was highly . commended for a full brother tP the first i prize bull, which had' not very good pair, and i a coarse skin. The class for bulls; calved » since July 1, 1873, gaje rise to a dispute. I The judges gave Mr Hall’s Statesman first, . but the general opinion was that Mr Bluett’s » Wizard ought to have had it, and with this > wo agree. Statesman was evenly made, and a - good colour,,bdt rather leggy, and had only a J fair head,while he might with advantage have i had more hair. Wizard was a much better r handler, had abetter head, and though a trifle i. deficient inthe girth wasdeeperinthebody.and j. there could be no doubt (hat ho had a good r constitution. In cows, imported or otheri. wise Mr Hall v»i again to the fore with I Dorcas,a grand cow all over, and of fashipns able colour. He waa also second with Harriet, - a daughter of Dorcas, which showed a great 0 deal of breeding, but was rather deficient in r the buttock and too low across the loins, i- Mr Bluett was highly commended and coma ,mended, the former for a _oseful beast 3 showing a great deal of quality, and the a latter for a nice, beast, which showed to quad* a vantage, by being bad on her feet. Mr Cun-, • ningham’s Heather Bloom was a neat heifer, a but would have beenmore in its place id ““ a fat stock class, for the reason that it did not b look like » breeder. In heifers calved Since, 1 July, 1873,, Mr Dawson’s first pnio amffiM i, was a little p ; id ture being oven 411 ■ i J; rfv.nMg.. Ih. ■ ■■ splendid head, showed breeding of a high / ofass was evenly made, and a capital r *■ riocker’s Minnie-ha-ha, second prize, will “ m 1 tt’,*HTMSh'higUy «; Bla l‘, i„ H h S 11l g r/wn (or her ago, »<)• V heifer Commended, was similar to f k roan . » no t possessing so much c .siaSKSaa;. ed Miss Moore. ad big cow, w*u°“> w than as, been placed X i?- Mab, showed more qua J. verv fashionablelal ful headin a age S bread’were len cow. Milch C0W8 ,% f h ey should have !l v hot so numerous by far tney » flf . ran been for as creditable q^ allt y- reß pect a farmers ,g’s first pnze, was m e V F good in res, friend; she had a fine udder, ana an- all the points o n( j prize was a big, ha Campbell’s exhibit,second pnz ,

1 4M*' J ,p«tote>Sat »bOWk " ! « Ifrßluett’s Bhblih, 1 tighljr commended: wu ,plito, but ostial/find his Favoorite Showed' tour <u®' <*>lour, which entitled hor to irtotU; position to the prize list. Mr • Lawrence's Lily wm mOT0 f suitedto beti purpoWe thah a dairy. ,In inileht.coWß/bred to r the district, Mr Booker’s Lillian'took first prize. She is a useful cow, with a prcttyeven top, and good hair. Mr Hall’s exhibit, seconds prite, Was a handsome cow,showing a lot of breeding, and from the look ofherheaid and neOk, she should be a good milker, but she was rather leggy. In fat bullocks Mr Osborne’s exhibit, first prize, was a nice, wall-grown steer,but it inighteasily hare been .fatter. Mr Booker’s beast; second prize, was a passable steer, to fair condition. There were four fat cows, all of which were good. Mr W. Keith’s exhibit, firstprize, was a grand, beast, good all over, to fact a perfect model Of a ’ butcher’s beast. ’ Mr Hall’s cOw was much.larger, but not so profitable for a butcher. It showed a great deal of breedtog quality, but was deficient for beef purposes. Mr Moorhead’s Verbena, highly commended, was a.useful cow to good condition for the time of the year; Mrs Bluett’s Maggie was a neat little beast,'not so large as her opnOnents, and gather ’ inferior to breeding. Mr Hall’s bull. Statesman, took Mr Clark’s prize for the bekt bull, and his ; cow, Boreas, Mr Clark’s prize for the best cow. Messrs Wilson, Sawtell, and Co.’s prize for the best heifer, calved since, July, 1873, was deservedly taken by Mr Bluett’s Daphne. There were only 62 hones, against 83 last year, but the average quality Was again good. The thoroughbred entires Barbarian, Messenger, and Caledon were opposed to each other, and they bare been criticised too often to require it here. In thoroughbred ■ mares, Mr Hill’s Norma, out of Opera, by Havens* worth, and half-brother to the famous Tamburini, was unopposed. She has good bone, a beautiful fore-hand, with tremendous power behind, and clean bocks, but is rather slack in the ribs. She is entered for the Champagne Stakes next year, and gave evidence of being well cared for. Draught entires come next. In imported or otherwise, the decision of Christchurch last year was substantiated with regard to Young Watty and Qlenroy. Glenroy has much improved since last year, and deservedly stood first in the judges’ estimation. Mr M’Kellar’s Scotchman;, which came second, was a compact muscular horse, and wellbodied, but rather deficient in action. Lord Glasgow looked as well as ever, very compact, and showing a deal of quality; though rather small, there is no doubt, with suitable mares, as to the stock he will throw. Young Watty, the champion of last year, was much admired by some. Banting Bobin, imported from Victoria, is a promising horse, rather leggy, and rather deficient in bone. In the class best colonial-bred entire horse, King David got second prize; he is a great favourite in the district. For the best colonial three-year-old, Champion obtained first prize,; he is by Lord Glasgow,, and rather plain, but .will improve with age. Sir Eobert Bruce was of fair quality, but deficient of bone. In class 6, for the best two-year-old entire, Mr M'Eellar’a bay colt by Lofty, which obtained first prize, was a promising colt, and with care should furnish into an exceedingly useful horse. Th the three-year-old class for colts or fillies, there were only two entries, which is to be regretted, as it is more especially the aim of the Association to encourage the exhibition of young stock. Mr Mathews’ first prize animal promises to furnish into a useful mare for farm purposes. In two-year-old coite and fillies, Mr Moffatt’s bay filly, by Lord Glasgow, : first prize, was an exceedingly neat filly, very compact, and certainly one of the most promising fillies on the groiind; she also obtained Meters Wilson and : Sawtoll’s prize for the best two-year-old draught filly. Mr Bourne’s colt; ; by Lofty, 1 second prize, Was rather rodgh and-, backward in condition, but will make a powerful horse for farm lor Waggon 1 purposes/ he showed rather-flat side*.Mr Lawrence’s Lofty colt, highly commended, showed both want of breeding and condition. In the class for the' feeete yearling colt fer filly, firijt honours fpll to Mr Bong's-cheshut filly, by Young Watty, which had ■ plenty of 1 quality, but was rather short in the' pasterns,' and light to the bodjt. ■' Mr Stevens’ filly, by Baronet, whiohdbtained -second. prize, was a compact filly showing plenty of' quality, and many good judges considered that she should Have- had . first honours. The other exhibits in this class, by Messrs 0. Bourne and D. Marshall, were all useful youngsters, but shdwed gteat want of condition. For the best draught mare, imported or otherwise, Mr : JV’ Bong’s bay make Miss Brodie deservedly got first prize; also, Mr Jollie’s prize for the best draught mare oh the ground; she had good bone, with plenty of quality, and should make a splendid brood -mare. Mr Mathews’Violet, second prize, had not the quality of the former, but was a good useful mare for farm work. Mr Moorhead’s 3-year-old Duchess, imported, was an exceedingly handsome filly, and when She has had another year will take a great deal of beating. She possessed plenty of bone, and was very highly commended. The class for the best pair, of draught mares Or geldings brought out only two exhibits, and Mr Moorhead s pair of bays obtained first honours. They were well matched and possessed good quality. Mr Bluett’s pair, second prize, were well matched; and good powerful roomy mares. For the best mare with foal at foot or to foal, Mr Boag’s bay mare Marchioness, imported from Victoria, was a very useful mare rather deficient to hind quarters, but she deservedly obtained first prize, Mr Bluett being a fair second with Bessie. In the class for best mare in foal or with foal at foot, there was an easy win for Mr Marshall's bay mare Jane, which had ah excellent foal at foot j ; Mr Dobbins’ bay mare, second prize, also deserves notice. All the young stock looked backward in condition, but with care and plenty of grass (which has evidently been a scarce commodity in the BUesmera, district Hub year) they will in ZQMt 0&668 bo a credit to the district. In carriage entires, Mr j. Barnett’s colt hod the field to himself. So locked a very useful horse for the district, and was a good mover. Three brood mares came to the post. Lunn’s bid mare, Banshee, a well known maw, good enough to take the first prize at a much torger show, secured the premier position. She looked exceedingly well for her ago. Mr Barnett's Flirt, second, had the appearance of a mare sure to breed useful animals. She Iboked splendid over the lotos and had very good bone. Mrs Bluett’s Merrilegs was out of her class altogether. In the WW9 mares and geldings for carriage purposes, Mr Doyle came first with a fine descendant of Xraduoer. Taken all round ho was a handsome carriage '.ferny* with good ,bone- and action, and moreover ho carried hitnself ex*ocedtogly well. The only real fault discernible was a trifling lightnese to the fenns. ; Mr Loe’s Leo, second., prize, was a plain service* able horae- Mr If.- J. HaU’e Fanny was a nice looking mare, showing * great deal or duality, and had it not been for a slight curb would no doubt have taken honours. JfcHaifa Statesman was , also a useful kind of horse. The class or best pair of carnage horses had only one entry—-Mr M. 8. Campbell’s Mieeie and Akaroa. Theywero a splendid pair for rough up-country Work. Hackney entire* Were represented by The Nana and Young Pacific, both of Vhioh have been eo often noticed that nothing mow is required here than to say they were both to exoeUent condition. -The roadsters and hacks were not half sonumerdne M they should be for a district hke Ellesmere. Mr Woodman’s Charlie, flfst prize, nearly loot the prize through and he should nave been ridden with L a curb. Ho looked very good in front, and though it would have been an advantage if up to more weight, he was' deserving of the : prize. Mr 0. Bourne’s Tommy was to - more weight, but he: Aha badly ridden and would have Shown better m a bit andbiddoon. He ' was" rather -heavy on the shoulder and plain, added to which ho gave unmutakeable signs of work. Mr^Wifltons’ ’Charlie gave clear evidence of Arab blood/and was a wiry, willinir slave, but showed to a disadvantage from Sing in low condition. Mr M'llraiths Lunatic was a handsome game oob, up to weight, but his off foreleg was big, md best of his time has goto by. In ladies backs, Mrs Seabright’s Lady Ann was far ahead for first prize. B She Was a handsome lady s hack, thoroughly well broken in, with a splendid mouthf and was beautifully ridden by her SSS Miss Hall’s Magenta, second prize, possessed fab’ quality, and was evidently a

jritasant little >%dns . for a > Udjr 'rider;. -Mr Hastings Bridges Lady was quite out of its elfcss. It hud no mouth, and was badly ridden, In brood mares, MrGillett secured ' firtt placa with Ethel, a mm stamp of aniare and sum to get handsome camsge hones. She had good hone, plenty of qualify.and was a roomy mare.' Mr l Bishop's Maggie, second prize, was a fairty creditabtam&e,with a promising foal by Shales At foot. The ponies were nSt so well represented as they ought to hare faehn. Mr L. White’s Topsy was a nice little pony, and. when it moved showed off splendidly, it WSS well ridden. Mr Walter Bridge’s Brownie, second prize, was a neat pony, short legged, sound, and a free mover. It also appeared to have a good temper. Mr Bell’s Troubadour was not half broken, and was altogether out of its class. The special prizes, given by Mr Loe, Messrs Wilson and Sawtell, and Mr, J. M’Kellar, were, won by horses noticed as competing in other daises. The pigs were limited in number. In boars of any age or breed, Mr Minchiner’s Walsinghaiu, first prize, was a nice compact animal but rather light behind the shoulder. Mr C. F. Williams’ boar Swamp was very poor and no second prize was given, In sows of any age or breed, Mr 0. F.‘Williams’ Maori won first place with a good young animal deserving of it, and Mr Bourne, second price, with one of fair quality. In sows under 12 months, Mr John Smith carried first and second prizes with two well-bred good bacon pigs. Mr Bourne was also ah exhibitor, but his entry was rather deficient in quality. Mr Green’s special prize, for the best sow, was taken by Mr Williams’ Maori in competition with' Mr Bourne’s and Mr John Smith’s sows. The show of implements was not creditable to the district. Messrs ilex. Webster (three entries) and H. J. Unwin (one entry) competed in the class for barrows. Mr Unwin took the first prize with a set which were heavier and more durable than the others, and a good article. Mr Webster’s exhibits were well got up, but a trifle light. In extra stock, Mr Qlark obtained the prize for a well-made and well-designed wheelbarrow. The entries of dairy produce were two less than last year, but the exhibits, as a whole, were of a creditable character. The hams and bacon were not quite so well cured as they ought to have been, but the exhibits of cheese by Messrs Marshall and Bennie were particularly good. In potted batter, Mr Karl Sohnell was unopposed, but his sample well deserved the prize. The competitors in the class for 31bs of fresh butter were Messrs Bari Sohnell, B. Gillet, E. J. Lee, D. Marshall, J. Bennie, J. Barnett, and B. Docker, MosdameS Morrison, Woodman, Bourne, and Miss Mathews. There was not a sample in the lot which did not deserve warm commendation, and mos|: of them were so close in pointy of merit that the judges must have had a difficult task in awarding the prizes.

LINCOLN. Tuesday, Nov. 3. The breeders of stock in and around Lincoln are evidently making good progress in the improvement of their flocks and herds. No better means of, forming an opinion of this can be found than yearly exhibitions of stock, and the one held yesterday, was incontestably superior to the best of its predecessors. The entries were 213, as compared with 197.1a5t year, and the average quality of the exhibits showed a much greater advance. There were several instances of valuable .additions to the stock, since last year, from beyond the province, while the young ..animals bred in the district were of a decidedly better stamp, thus proving that more careful attention is given to breeding generally. When to this it is added, that, notwithstanding the earliness of the season, almost the whole of thf exhibits were in good condition, it must be conceded that the shijw, as a whole, wu. highly orpd itable:to the district, and indicative alike to general progress and careful attention.to that important but often neglected adjunct—the feeding of stock. Withput doubt,, the whole affair was a success, quite equal, if not superior, to any undertaking of the same kind in other outlying districts. The exhibition was held on the Lincoln Fairground, than which a more suitable spot could not be found. The weather being very fine, there was a large attendance of visitors from the adjacent districts and Christchurch. A Strong north-east wind prevailed after two o’clock, but it did not interfere with the general enjoyment of .the proceedings. Mr Sluis, of the Lincoln Hotel, had a large bar, on the ground, with a commodious luncheon marquee attached, and the extent to vyhich both were patronised must have bean quite satisfactory to tbeir proprietor. Sporting .games were unusually well represented, but the supply did not seem to be mneb in excess of the demand. Music had not been neglected by:the committee, and a pleasant tone was given to the. proceedings by the performances of Mr Button’s band, the members of which played, as they always do—remarkably well. The ground arrangements of ths committee were on much the same plan as lost year, but with several improvements of an acceptable character.. The committee had, in fact, paid every attention to the general details of the exhibition, making the best use of the experience gained in previous years, and thus ensuring a very desirable smoothness in carrying out the programme for the day. Mr Murray also deserves credit for the manner In which he carried out his duties, not a single hitch of any kind occurring in the secretary’s department. The guardians of the peace were represented by Sergeant Wilson and . two constables, whose official duties by no means interfered with their examination of the various exhibits. The prises were awarded before noon, which gave the public ample time to go the round of the show* ■ •-

The steep, ta usual, are first to be noticed in making detailed reference to the Various departments of the show. The total number; of exhibits Was one less than last year, but the quality ms much better, and, except in one or two eases, the condition was very creditable. Some of the local breeders are evidently idaking good efforts to improve their* flocks;' and the result will be a great benefit to ihe district. Among those desem ing of notice in this respect are Messrs O’Callaghan in Eomneys and W. B. Andrew in Lincolns. The Leicesters did not seem to have received quite their share of attention during the j but, ho doubt, the progress «hiae in other breeds will in Umo extend to this very useful kind of sheep. The extra priie exhibits first call for notiee. Sir Oracroft Wilson’s prise for font Lincoln owes woa taken by Mr Inwry, whose sheep Wflifo tbpv ffood &nd more gtch thtnilu lot shown by Mr Andrew. Mr A. 0. Knight’s prise fob the best pen of ten long-woolled ewes hot exhibited in any other class was taken by Mr A. P. O’Oallaghan against three Cthcr competitors! with ’ a good useful Sen* superior in size end constitution > tte otters. Messrs Matson's prize for the best pen of cross-bred wether hoggets, fell to Mr F. Wright, who was unopposed, for a creditable lot, though iwt so large as could be desired; Mr Bovey’s prise for the best pen of twenty oross-bred ewe hoggets, was Secured by Mr James Gtemmaek, agamst two others, with a magnifioentjpeh of three-quarter leicesters, Mr®. 0. Murray bemgagood second. There were no competitors for Mr Marcroft’s prise. The Leicester rams over 1& months, showed a marked improvement on last year, Mr James Gammaok’s ram, 1 first prise; showed a great amount of constitution, With snlendid quality and evenness of fleece. Mr W, B. Andrew’s exhibit, second prize, was a younger sheep, but also poseasedhigh merit though a tnfle weak in the loins. Mr Frederick Wright’s ram, third prize, was a high class Leicester, but evidently suffering from years. Mr B. Wright’s commended exhibit, was a strong robust pneop, but possessed a dash of Lincoln. There *ere T two exhibits of rams under 18 months, hut the judges did not consider them worthy of a prize. Such a. result is to be deplored in any class, but, particularly in one foryoung stock. The ewes, in pens of two, under.lß months, were fairly good. Mr Nutt obtained first prize, but some thought Mr Qammaok should have had it. Theexhibito bv the former were, however, pure bred, with i good profitable" wool, but Mr Gamma* p, though good in other respects, appeared to have a slight dash of Lincoln blood. In ewes above 18 months, Mr Andrew had no opponent, and received both prizes; the first with a (good but ratter uneven pen, and the *ecw»

with sheep iwhioh showed some sighs o£ Bouncy and Lincoln blood. Mr Andrew was> done in the class for five ewee nndeH 18 months, bat deservedly obtained first prize, hissheepehowing a deal of high class bleeding; The .Lincoln class wap exceedingly croditable.tothedistriot, as shoWr ing a greater adherence impurity of blood than last year; In rams over 18 months, Mr Andrew's first prize exhibit was a magnificent. animal,' aud was greatly admired for the excellence of its wool, constitution, and handling. In addition to the first prize in its class, it was deservedly awarded Mr Tosswill’s prize for the best long-woolled ram on tbe ground. Mr Lawiy’s exhibit, second prize, alio showed good qualify, but was deficient in size. Mr Andrew’s sheep; highly commended, was a good one, except a slight deficiency in constitution. In rams under 18 months, Mr Andrew took first and second prizes with two good sheep. Mr La wry’s exhibit, which took third, was a good useful sheep', but rather light on the back; In two ewes above 18 months, Mr La wry took both prizes unop-, posed, but the sheep being out of condition did not show to full advantage. In two ewes under 18 months, Mr Andrew’s exhibit, first prize, possessed good wool, but were rather slack in the shoulder. Mr Gammaok’s second prize sheep were a nice lot, in fine condition, but rather lighter in the wool than Mr Andrew’s. Mr Lawry’s pen, highly commended, were Creditable, bat in bad condition. For five ewes above 10 months, Mr Lawry stood first with a good lot of ewes, Che most evenly matched in the class, and Mr Andrew second with a pen in which three of the sheep were very good. In five ewes under 18 months, Mr Andrew’s first prize pen contained five well woolled sheep with good constitution, which represented the Lincoln breed well. MrLawry’s pen, second prize, contained a fair lot, one being much better than the others. The Bomney Marsh sheep were a splendid lot, and would have done credit to any show. The class for rams over 18 months contained three of the best sheep of the kind ever seen competing together in this province. Mr O’Oallagban stood first with a ram bought at Dr Webster’s sale last autumn. He is a splendid sheep, and supposed to be the best in Hew Zealand. Mr Andrew came second with a fine ram, not far behind Mr O’OaUaghan’s, and the latter exhibitor was highly commended with a splendid sheep haring a remarkably fine Bomney Marsh bead, but rather a lighter fleece than the others. In rams under 18 months, Mr O’Callaghan, with two good rams also bred by Dr Webster, was unopposed, and deservedly secured both prizes. He had one pen of the same breed in the class for two ewes, and though unopposed, was justly awarded a first prize. In five ewes, under 18 months, Mr O’Callaghau secured both prizes with some particularly good sheep, also from Dr Webster’s flock. The first prize pen showed more constitution, and were more even than the other. In the class five ewes, under 18 months, the same exhibitor had one pen, and was unopposed. The sheep were of good merit, and received a first prize. The cross-bred and fat sheep were all good, the pens of five ewes in the former breed being as nearly equal in merit as possible. The Bomney Marsh ewes shown by Mr O’Callaghan as extra stock were creditable specimens of the breed.

The cattle were a good lot, much better than last year, and in fair condition. In bulls of any age, Mr O’Callagban’s Flatus, a fine animal, possessing great symmetry, and a good handler, secured first place. Mr I). Gebbie’s Student of Oxford, a well-bred bpll, but rather light in constitution, came second. In two-year-old bulls, Mr Shaw’s exhibit, a large bull with capital colour, and a fine handler, was awarded first prize, but a protest being entered be was disqualified as overage, and the prize was then taken by Mr Langstreth’s Marquis of Waterford, a useful animal of laic quality. The yearlings were creditable. Mr Brook’s, first prize, exhibit handled well, and was of a good colour, , but rather coarse in the head. Mr F. 0. Murray’s Lincoln, second prize, was a premising bull, with good colour, but rather a lard hide. ■ Mr Gabble’s Dauphin, highly commended, was a nice animal but too young for the class. The exhibits of short-bom cows and heifers were . good. Mr Philip Haim’s cow, an old champion, took first prize. She was a good handler, symmetrical, and a I food size. Mr A. P. O’Callaghan’s Guiding Star, second prize, was but Utjtle inferior while the exhibits by Mr D. Gebbie and Ladbrooke, Pros., deserve commendation. The three year elu heifers were fairly represented. Mr. A. P. O’Callagban took first prize with a well-bred animal, having a great deal of quality, but rather out of condition, and second with a good symmetrical heifer of fair quality. Mr Gebbie’s exhibit, highly commended, was a useful kind of animal. The two year old heifers were decidedly above the average. Mr F. 0. Murray’s Marcella, first prize, whs a fine heifer possessing beautiful symmetry, good back, loins, and bide. She was also well-grown, in fact, quite as much as some of the three year olds. Mr A. P. O’Caliaghan’s, second prize, exhibit was a handsome, well-grown, and promising heifer. Mr J. Gebbie’* heifer, third prize, was a beautiful roan colour, and likely to make a good beast. Mr D. Gebbie’s exhibits were both of a useful stamp; and , Ladbrpok, Bros.’, heifer was well grown and docile. The yearling heifers were fair, a* a whole, though some of them did not show much breeding. Mr Nutt’* heifer, first prize, was a fine roan, with plenty of quality, and much superior to any other in the class. Mr John Gebbie’s ’second.prize exhibit showed nice quality. Mr H. Panaett took third place with a robust, well groim beast, and was highly commeqded for one which showed a good deal of constitution but no particular character. Me D, Gebbie’s heifer, commended, was a pice animal, bat father hard in the hide. The milch cow* were fine, and would Comparison with those at any district showun the province. Mr Davies’, first prize, animal possessed every milking property. II had a beautiful head and neck, was symmetrical «U over tor amilch cow, and its udder wee beauiafdfiy Nt on. Mr ... Storey’s JTanoy, second prise, also possessed these’good qualities to a groat extent, but was. smaller than her more successful opponent. ladbrook, Bros.’ Dolly, third prize, though rather aged, a Aice cow, and their Spot, highly Commended, possessed good constitution and good milting properties, bat was rather coarser than the other*. Mr A. 0. Knight’s Orphan, commended, showed many useful qualities. The fat cattle were not perhaps so numerous as roisftt have been expected, but they were, as » who!*; decidedly good. Mr D, Gebbis’s exhibit in class 11 was a grand heifer, one that would do credit to any show. Air F. 0. exhibit, first prise; and Ladbrook, Bros’ exhibit, second prise, in the class for yearling heifers, were to equal, that the judges had great difficulty in deciding, and some thought their award should have been ’reretsod. , jjorses were fairly represented. The diaught horses were much the beet, and showed a, general improvement upon last year. The classes for mares ahdwee-year-olds weie well filled, and superior to My of the others. The prise offered by Messrs J‘. C; Murray, and A. P. O’Callaghan, for the est yearling colt or filly, by Scotch Jock or Young Watty,. was won by Mr H. Wnite s colt, a descendant 'of Scotch Jock, against four others: It was a first-class colt, even all Oier by far the best in the class, and had the hikings of a fine horse. Ladbrooke, Bros, filly stood next best 1 in order of merit. Messrs J. and E. H. Campbell's prize, for the best draught gelding up to five years, fell to Mr Blair’s Bruefc. Mr Moffatt’s Prince, a gelding of good stamp and breeding, was the best bred animal fii the class, but he was considered over age, and was therefore passed by. Mr Stooe’s prize was not awarded, as the only filly exhibited was not deemed of sufficient merit. In thoroughbred entires, Barbarian' and Admiral were opposed to each other. Barbarian is well-known. Admiral is a well-bred horse, possessing nwny good points, btit hopelessly lame from an accident. While being broken in last year, he slipped Md broke’Ms off fore shoulder. For quality, ’ t& Wo boisesrwere pretty evenly matched. The only exhibit in the draught entire class was Young Sir Colin, wMch looked to be m good condition. In two-year-old entires, Mr H. Mofiatt was the only exMbitor with a large colt, wanting somewhat in quality and shape, for which he obtained first prize, The

ol«« for mam wu well filled.! Mr Todd had ! two compact, well-bred, roomy chesnnte, to which first and second prizes would have been awarded, but, taking offence at a remark from some person in a chaffing humour, he removed the the mares from the ground. Mr Everest’s oheenut, a good, strong-boned, roomy mare then obtained first prize, and Mr Wright's maro, which Showed a deal of quality, the second. Mr fl. White's Gipsy, a large but rather plain mare, took third prize, while creditable exhibits by Mr Knight and Lodbrook, Bros., were, respectively, highly commended and commended. The three-year-old fillies and geldings were all good. Mr H. White’s first .prize exhibit was a first class filly, rather out of condition, but possessing tremendous bone and first class action. Mr Peryman’s, second prize, filly was a compact, useful animal, and Mr Marshall’s, third prize, filly was large, but rather deficient in bone. In the two-year old colts and fillies, Mr John Will’s filly, first prize, possessed very good, bone and substance, but Mr Fannell’s, second prize, filly was also a good one. In yearlings, Mr H. White’s colt, first prize, was by far the best of the lot, showing a great deal of quality, and promising to be a fine horse. Mr Will’s filly, second prize, was a good animal, and neatly made. In entires travelling the district, Bed Prince Came off first, and a second was awarded to the only other competitor, Young Scotchman. Both horses looked well. The exhibition of light horses as a whole was inferior, and, if shows of this kind are to do any good, farmers must endeavour to get a better stamp. This branch of stock has been so much neglected that it is almost impossible to get a good hack, and the prices for some time to come are sum to rule at such a rate as will give good profit to any one who enters into the breeding of such stock. The class for three-year olds was poorly represented, and the judges awarded the prizes only because the promoters of the show wished to encourage all who came forward to exhibit. The entries of roadsters and hacks were better, but were still wanting in quality, and several should not have been shown at all. The judges selected four, and after minutely examining them, gave first prize to Mr H. Murray’s Billy, a useful horse past his prime, showing some good points, but only medium quality. The same remarks almost entirely apply to Mr W. A. Murray’s Brownie, seoond prize. Mr Main’s Bata, third prize, a 3-year-old mare, was of a useful description and a good mover, but not in her proper place. Bone of the ladies’ hacks were particularly good. Mr A. P. O’Oallaghan’s exhibit, first prize, was a young obesnut mare, which moved in a style well sulapted for a lady, but it was rather small. Mr Lowe’s exhibit, seoond prize, was a useful mare for a farmer’s wife. Mr M'Lelland’s grey mare was a nice looking young animal, but only partially broken and not fit to carry a lady. In carriage horses, Mr Knight’s bay mare, first prize, showed some quality, and was a fair representative of her class. Mr Townshend’s Shylock, second prize, was a good useful gelding for a spring cart or a butcher’s trap. In the pony class, there was a nice cream-coloured one belonging to Mr Townsbend, which was evidently the best when standing still, as when put into motion he displayed no action at all, m fact, it was impossible to say whether he waa walking, trotting, or cantering. Therefore, he was not awarded a prize. Mr Anson’s exhibit, first prize, was a heat black mare, but more like a small blood horse than a pony. Mr Collins’ Stella, seoond prize, was a neat useful little mare. Mr Brook’s exhibit was evidently unbroken, In hackney entires, Shales, Merrylegs, and Young Pacific were opposed to each other, but the judges could . not by any stretch of imagination put Shales down as a hackney entire, therefore he was not judged at all. Young Pacific, a nice useful horse, showing considerable style, but a little thick in the shoulder, took .first place ; and Merrylegs, who; os a pony stallion, is unequalled, the second. The pigs, ae a whole, were good, but the competition wae far. from what it. ought to have been, there not being more than two exhibits ,in any class. Mr Wills’Berkshire boar was .a fine animal, and undoubtedly the best , pig on the ground. Mr Haydon’s sow . also deserves more than ordinary commendation.

: Implements were meagrely represented, and there are few but wul regret such an undesirable result. All the exhibits were however, of creditable workmanship, and the judges would have acted more judiciously if they had given prizes in every olasa as an encouragement to persons to exhibit, rather than to have withheld prizes for comparatively trivial faults.

The entries of dairy produce, although double the number of last year, were poor, except in fresh batter, of which there was a fair number of entries,, all possessing more than average merit. Mr Herrick, who took first prize last year, wae again successful, with a splendid sample. The samples exhibited by Messrs Beaumont, Blair, and Hubbard were, however, not far astern. Mr Herrick’s salt butter was equal to any ever tasted in this province. Mr Beaumont’s exhibit of cheese—the only one—was too new for exhibition, and was. passed over. Mr B. Davies’ exhibit of bams and bacon .were similarly dealt with, as they were neither well out nor cured.

BANGIORA. Thubudat, Hot. 6.

President—Mr J. M'Farlane. Vice-presi-denti—M. J. E. Brown, Mr B. L. Higgins, M.P.0., Mr M. Dixon, M.P.0., and Mr H. Blackett. Committee —Messrs W. Bramley, W. Burt, Q. Con®, 8. Coleman, M. Duncan, M. Dalziel, J. Guild, W. M'Gregor, J. Hone, H. Hinge, M. Jones, C. G. King, G. H. Lee, J- Lilly; J. Luxton, 0. Merton, A. Bartons, J. Stevenson, 0. Skivington, P. 0. Threlkeld, L. C. Williams, 0. Young. Hon. Secretary—Mr W. Bum. Hon. Treasurer, Mr P. M. Bickman. : The exhibition wa® held m Mr F. M. Bickmsn’s paddock,' situated on the Ashley road, Xangtors, and a better place for the pur nose could scarcely hare been obtained in theprovince. The gneund was only distant about a quarter of a ntle from the railway station,'and was easy of aoeess for exhibitors -from all parts of the district. It was ten acres in extent, and in capital order* addqd to which it was encircled hy a good high gorse fence, a fact which wae doubtless appreciated by the four troopers under Inspector Barsham who promenaded the ground to keep order and prevent persons entering the grounds without first consulting the ticket distributor at the gates. On enuring the paddock the visitor could not help being struck with the excellent arrangements that had been made for the reception of the exhibits. The pig'pens wore the first to be seen on the right hand side, and substantial cattle yards had been erected in the north-east corner of the paddock for the reception of cattle. The sheep pent were next approached on the north side, and theweetem and southern sides of the paddock were devoted exclusively to exhibits of horte flesh. The agricultural implements were exhibited on the south side near the gates. In the centre of the field were erected the marqu&e for New Zealand manufactures and dairy produce, a neat offioe for the secretary, and enclosures for judging horses, &o. In the same group, Mr M. Thompkins, of the Woodend Hotel, presided at a respectable looking booth, with a large luncheon room attached, and he appeared to be driving a lucrative business during the afternoon. The luncheon he provided was certainly Very superior. Messrs GeOrge and Sansom’ were also on the ground with an attractive refreshment booth, and there were numerous other stalls for the sale of fancy goods. Herr Biioz’s brass band also enlivened the proceedings during the day. The Christchurch peripatetic sporting fraternity were present in strong ; force, and by no means the least acceptable adjunct to the show was Eugene Beda’e performance on the flying trapeze. Although , to some extent disabled by the loss of a limb he is unquestionably a clever acrobatic performer, and his feats drew forth well-merited applause. The most important ingredient m the success of an outdoor gathering—fine weather—favoured the exhibition, for a more enjoyable day could not possibly have been desired by the most sanguine supporter of the show, and the attendance of visitors on the ground during the afternoon was the largest that has ever been seen id BiWgiora. 3&U result

na mainly broughtahout by thejrauwav «• enuon in tba northern districts, and lazga lumbers ofvuitorsarrived fromjphristQhurch. md Baiapoi by the special and orainiuy tifaihzv Through the kindness of Mr J, Twlor, the' ontractor for the construction of the •nd Oxford railway, a train was ruh durihg he day between the Moeraki Downs and langiora, and nearly 150 persona from Oxford' «nd the adjoining districts availed themselves if the opportunity to visit the show; Jhenoney taken at the gate amounted'to £Bs;a um which by far exceeded the anticipatu|na if the committee. Mr W. Henderson/of Ihristohuyeh, it may be noted, availed himself if the large collection of people to work up he interests of the Metropolitan Show, and le succeeded in taking 37 entries. , As at other exhibitions of this kind, theheep are at the he»d of the catalogue, and hereby call for priority of noticel Taken: asi whole, they were creditable to the district, jeicesters and Lincolns were the leadiagfeaure in this department, the former omewhst the better represented of the two. fhe Bomneys were fairly good, and a short ime ago would have stood well in comparison vith any other district, but recent importations o Lincoln and Ellesmere have plaoed them at he head of the list for excellence in this ireed, Lincoln unquestionably standing first. Jut altogether Thursday’s show gave ovilence that breeders in the northern part if the province are not neglecting the imirovement of their long-woolled flocks. In nahing detailed reference to the various classes if sheep, Merinos are first to come under notice. Chase were not so well represented as they bould have been, considering that theW|We everal extensive runs in the district on which nerinos will have to be depastured morp or ess for some time to come.. There were' no mtries in any of the four ram classes, and Mr dickmaa was the only exhibitor of ewes. He lad two pens in the class above 18 mbplhs, he sheep in whioh were fair representatives if their class, and deserved the prizes awarded o them. Ho had also one entry of thgh* ewes ibove 18 months, but only one of the sheep' vas worthy of commendation. In Leicester* he quality was fair, many of the sheep would >e a credit to any part of the province, and'Mr Dhrelkeld’s ewes were particularly noticeible for their purity of breeding. Mr Chrelkeld’s ram, by Jock, deservedly secured' irst place in the class above 18 months, 'and ilso a special prize. He showed a grand conititution, with good breeding, and was well woolled. Mr Maroroft’s Jock, the second, ran him close for the latter prize. In ram* inder 18 months, Mr Threlkeld had three ixhibite, and took all the honours. His jirit prize ram was a magnificent sheep, which, ior wool, symmetry, carcase, and breading, would be difficult to beat. The second prize ixhibit also showed good quality, but ,was> sot quite up in size to the other, and wasrather flat ia the shoulders. The ram highly jommended possessed the best Leicester head on the ground, and showed good quality, gome thought he should have had. first prize, but he was lighter in the fleece, and not so well woolled on the neck as the sheep placed' before him. In five ewes over 18 months, Mr Threlkeld stood first with some well-bred’ awes, showing good condition, careful breeding, and evenness ; in fact, they would be a credit to o much larger show. Mr Mapfarlane’s ewes, second prize, possessed; a fine sonstitution and good wool, but two ofLhem; were not equal in quality to Mr Tbrejkeld’si sheep. Mr Threlkeld also took hflhoura in five ewes under 18 months, with .pome grand sheep—well bred, well woolled,; and having any amount of constitution. took second prize with a good useful of ewes. lathe rain class, open toallcomera,. MrMarcroft, though unopposed, deservedly took both, prizes. The Lincolns Were hot sonumerous as they should have been, hup the quality was quite up to the average,', In rams above 18- months, Judge Gresson’i first prize exhibit was a splendid sheep.,., well ■

woolled, and showing the true, characteristics of the breed. Messrs Threlkeld and Marcroft’s Panton was sup* posed, by some to be the best jn , the class, but though haying the bostoarcaia, and being well woolled, he did not ehow ( Buch pure breeding nor length of staple as the one to which the fit-pt prize was given. , Ip.yams under 18 months, the first prize sheep,, represented the breed well, haring good wppljrgood constitution, and, first-class quality,-Vyrbile Judge (treason's exhibit, second prize ;( was also a good useful sheep. Mr Chapman had two exhibits, both good, but not well ;np in condition. In the class for fire owes abpre 18 months, Mr Threlkeld took both pyizpiy with two fine pens. The first prize ew« were a splendid lot, alike for wool, constitution 1 , and breeding. One was a particularly fine Specimen of her class, indeed one well-known breeder was heard to exclaim that he would rather hare her than any ten sheep on the ground. The second prize pen also contained good sheep. The exhibit of fire ewes under 18 months were fine. Mr Threlkeld’s first prize , pen. contained a magnificent - Ipt of sheep, which would be hard to beat any where; their wool and breeding were unexceptionable. Judge Grasson’s exhibits, second prize, were splendid hoggets, and had seep them before»coming across Mr Threlkeld s, they would hare been considered certain of first prize. Mr: Tbrelkeld’s highly commended pen contained good-sized sheep, with, finy constitutions . The Romneys .were creditable, though not up to those exhibited at Lincoln,, and there were but few exhibitors. 0f thw thirteen entries, ten were made by Mr F. M. Rickman, who, it is to be regretted, hadlevery class to himself except that for ratat above IS months, in which he was opposed ,by M r ®- Chapman and Lee, Bros, In this clefs Mr Rickman secured first honours with a.spfendid sheep, the wool on which w« remarkably equal all over. Mr Chapman’s second; prize exhibit ran Mr ThrelkeM’s hard in strip. but, on » o}o»e examination, Ms wool, ajjowod • slight roughness about thehindquaftoM. Mr Chapman’s ram. .highly and Messrs Lee, Bros’ l cpmmeuded,,ram,.. useful sheep. Mr Hickman had all other classes to himself, and wm awarded peues in each. All his t*ms were creditable representatives of their breed, as also the ewsfciwhioh had the further advantage of being. pvenly drafted. His ewe, under 16 the extra stock class was a goodie, and would be hard to beat at her age at any of the Canterbury shows. The Downs were very small in numbejrs, and did not show pure breeding. Ho rams were exhibited, and only two pens of ewjes !J by Mr James Hurse. Iheflrstprize-pen contained some well-bred sheep, which appears# more equal than those. in the. other,-pSM, and possessing better constitution,' Thy .sjchibits m the class for five ewe* of any aboriginally bred front Merino ewes, were really ijyst-clase for breeding purpose*, the three .ro?e pens being pure. It would, however, haye been much easier for the judges, and mory satisfactory to the public, if the entries bgd been confined to half-bred, three-quartor-bjed, or seven-eighths bred, instead of the whole lot being mixed up together. With this .variety, it waa very difficult for a decision as tp umrit to be arrived at, and almost impossible to give general satisfaction. Mr Eeetleyjs first prize pen contained magnificent ewes -quite seveneighths bred, with promising lambs., M r Job ll Lnxton’t second prize ewes, were .alspgslod. and showed strong charaoteristiosof thpjQomney. They run Mr Keetley’s very close,- mpoint of breeding, but were somewhat fnugmin size. Mr Pentecost/s, highly commended .a]i|o had a good,lot of sheep, and iit ,;Wa* the,. qpfnion of -maUy that , they: should; have bam-, better placed. They showed oarefnl brpedmg for the time they had been,crossed, and; were,;greatly admired, bat thOiflrstand *scond ;; prpze pens werebetterhred. i Messrs. Lee, Byos.!p?hibited throe pens of useful sheep. oThfthljftfered and fat sheep: were,good. .;The>tjsr ( (|fl!^e.p*** tioular notice as.being- the r ; be|t this season. Mr lion’s share of prises with sheep ef. a sapagpt class, and; Mr. Biokman’s prise above the avenge. There were topi , in the extra stock dais,! but no awmrfis'msrp ““de. The fatlombe exhibited ; by,Mr.' and Mr. G. Cone were fimt-plss»,«pe<n|meni of the kind. 1 Considering the large, agrioultqrt<^.jdistricts comprised within the sfimits of association’s proper worlfiug/sphere.theiifUiibiU of cattle, both numerically and otherwise, were the least creditable department of the show. The unfavourable spring, and oonsequen' scarcity of pasture were calculated to acainit large e&triei of fat stock, but it ;

fo hoped the farmer* in the diatriot will make ; this department more prepossessing next year. In bulls of any age, the entries were four in Mr P. Q. Threlkald!*-animal. St . Patrick, *u not shown, on accoupt of his ' Having ftfeetf sold to go to Otago. The other three wen ah ordinary lot, and dp hot call for special comment. The prize-taker, Mr Macfarlane’s beast, showed a fair amount of breeding, but he was greatly out of condition, and Mr Bartrttni’s animal, the second prise-taker, Whs rather coarse. In bull's calved since jiily 1,1872, there was only one exhibit by Mr Guild, and it came in for a first prise. It is a pity that the other entry by Mr Threlkeld, Prince Imperial, did not put in an appearance, ‘ particularly as it is a new importation into ' ftp province, but it was suffering from the effects of a sea voyage from Otago and was ' nht ‘hi condition for exhibition. In bulls calved since July 14,1873, there was no competition, but Mr Buss’s exhibit was deserving of a prize. For the best short-horn oow ’ or heifer of any ago, in milk or in calf, there was a good field. One of Mr 'Threlkeld’s exhibits deservedly took first prize, as it possessed good breeding and quality. One of Mr Guild’s exhibits also showed a good deal of breeding, and it was classed second on the list, but it was in poor condition—a fact ■which prevented it showing to advantage. An tuted coWj shown by Mr J • 0. Boys was only ' commended, but it was a fine specimen of its cl..* The other exhibits in this class do not call for special remark. In heifers, calved since July Ist, 1872, Mr Eiokman took first honours, with a neat little animal, but although possessing a better constitution, it did not show so much fine breeding as an exhibit by Mr Threlkeld that came in for second prize. Mr Threlkeld’s heifer wae greatly fancied, but it did not obtain first prize on account of its apparent hereditary weakness of constitution. The other exhibit by Mr Pentecost, although s good useful animal, did not show sufficient breeding to obtain a commendation from the judges. In milch cows of any age or breed, Mr Threlkeld’e exhibit was a good specimen of a dairy cow, with a large frame and good milk-giving qualities. Mr Wilson’s exhibit was little inferior to Mr Threlkeld’s, and it succeeded in obtaining second prize. In fat oatt-l* —bullocks of any age—there was only one exhibit by Mr D. Heeney. It was not in prime marketable condition, but had an enormous frame, and the judges considered it merited a prize. In fat cows of any age. there was a fair muster for the judges’ attention, but as a class, they were all deficient in condition. The contest for first honours lay between Messrs J. Hurse and P. C. Threlkeld, and the competition was so close that the judges took some time to decide upon their award. Mr Hurse’s exhibit' was a compact barren heifer in good condition, but in fineness of breeding it was not up to Mr Threlkeld’s exhibit, sUhoughitwasheavierandreceivedthe second prize, Mr Threlkeld’s exhibit came in for second prize, but as if to in some way equalise matters, it was awarded Mr Cone’s special prize for the most profitable fat beast for a batcher. A beast exhibited by Mr M. Jones showed some good quality, and deserved the highly commended distinction bestowed upon it by the judges. In steers calved since July 1, 1871, Mr Hurse’s exhibit drew forth a good deal of attention, being as fine a steer of its age as could be found in the district, although lacking condition. The same exhibitor was fortunate in obtaining a first prize for a heifer calved since July 1, 1871. Mi- Buss exhibited a neat little veal calf, eight weeks old. The horses formed a very notable feature in the exhibition. The light horses were on the whole good, the brood mares being best, and the draught stock showed that considerable care is taken by farmers in this district in breeding stock of this description. _ Blood stock are first to be noticed in detail. The class for entires had three entries, Defamer, in good condition, took first honours, and Sunlight, by Mahon—Sunbeam, second. Sunlight io a well-shaped horse, and though rather Under-sized, will be a useful sire. The third entry, Castaway, was passed overby the judges as unsound. In brood mares, Mr Bickman was the only exhibitor, and did not receive a prize. In two-year-old fillies, Mr Hurse took first, and Mr Jones second, prize, bnt neither of the exhibits was first-class. They showed a want of breeding, and were rather coarse. The prize for the best blood entire on the ground was not awarded, but if it had been, Defamer must have got it. Thera wae a fine muster of draught stallions in the any age class, all of which were in tip-top condition. There were the well-known horses Young Watty, Lord Eavensworth, Bob Boy, Balmoral, Conqueror, and Prince Arthur, with two new candidates for stud honours —Black Bob Boy,i reported, and Buonaparte. Young Watty most deservedly got first prize, and Black Bob Boy second. The latter is a compact horse, with plenty of bone and substance, and good hair. Buonaparte, the other new one, is also a well-made horse, but showed no action at all. In two-year-old entires, Mr B. Noble’s Distinct, a compact, wellfurnished hone, with not the best of legs, took first. place; Mr Duffell’s Pretender, which is the making of a good horse, and almost sure to beat Distinct as a three-year-aid, took second; and Mr Wilson’s Scotch Jock, a large grown, bnt plain colt, third. The first prize in the three-year-old class fell to Mr Yates’ Tam o’ Shanter, which has improved greatly since the last annual horse parade, and the second to Mr Holly’s Noble, which was not a bad horse, but did not move «o freely a* Tam. Mr Cone’s first prise mare, in the class for mares, showed any quantity of anbstance, with good breeding qualities, and wae well deserving of the prize. In three-year-olds, Mr JStevenson’s exhibit, a wellgrown, roomy filly, stood first; and Messrs Bowie, Bros.’ Nina, a useful, compact, but smaller animal, wae second. Mr Ell» seoared both prizes in the two-year-old class with two descendants of Lord Glasgow, the best being a well-grown eolt, with good chest, and strong flat bone. The yearlings were a fair lot; Mr Walls, with two Prince Charlie fillies in much better condition than any of the other exhibits, took both prizes. Both were promising animate, the best having plenty of substance, with short cannon bones, and good hair, but the other was a trifle inclihed'to be leggy. The exhibits by Messrs Macfarlane, Bowie, and Edwards, were of fair quality, Mr Lewton’s prize, of £2 2s, for the best yearling by Bed Lion, was taken by Mr Edwards’ exhibit, which was the only one. It woe a large filly, but rather plain, and out of condition. There were three good entries in the class for-pairs of mares or geldings, and the competition was keen. Mr Walls’ first prize pair included a superior cbesnut, much superior to any in the class, and Which might hare been Kept for an entire with advantage. Mr Peach’s mares were good roomy animals, with plenty of substance, but showing signs of bard work. Mr Macfarlane’s pair, highly commended, was a creditable one indeed. The exhibits of single mares and geldings were much above the average. Mr Stevenson’s first prize mare showed many good qualities and fully deserved the prize. The exhibits by Messrs Ellis, Peach, and M'Dowall, were ah cf a useful stamp. The prize for the best draught entire on the ground was won by Young Watty, the only other competitor being President. The class for hackney entires had four entries. Mungo Park, a superior horse, -showing a great deal of breeding, and not .generally believed to be what he was described— a descendant of Quicksilver — ■look first honours, and the well-known horse Phenomenon second; Lord of Erin a good old horse being deservedly commended. The -exhibits in the roadster or hack class were of fair merit. Mr Maofarlane’s, first prize, exhibit was a well-bred strong useful mare, and a splendid mover, Mr- J. Hurse’s gelding, second prize, wa* also a strong weight-carrying hack, but slightly wanting in quality. Messrs Bart’s, Blackett’s, and Wheeler’s exhibits also deserve attention. The ladies’ hack class was scarcely up to the average of merit. Mr Hickman’s, first prize, exhibit was a fair specimen, and was well ridden. MrM'Farlaue’s exhibit, which took second prize, wae by far the most like a lady’s hack of any in the class, but waa not quite sound, and, therefore, did not receive first prize. The class for hackney brood mares contained a large number of exhibits which, an the whole, were of creditable merit. The first and second prizes were closely contested. Mr Norfolk’s -exhibit, which was ultimately placed first, was a compact old mare, showing a great deal of •quality and endurance. Mr Brown’s, second

prize, exhibit was evidently a thorough-bred mare, showing a great deal of quality, but was more adopted for breeding good banters than useful mare. Mr Brown had two other good exhibits, and those by MrJosiing and Palmer were worthjr of notice. Mr Watsons Duke of Edinburgh, a first-class -pony entire, 1 was the Only horse in his class, bat deservedly received a first prize. There were three exhibits in the cob class, but they were , thrown out, as they were not at all suited' to the class. In boys’ ponies, Mr Wroaghton’s gelding deservedly obtained first prize, but was so laden with fat that it could scarcely move, Mr Blackett’s prize for the best mare or gelding for light oirts was keenly competed for by nine exhibits. Mr Hanna’s gelding, to which the judges awarded the prize, was a really superior animal for the purpose required. Mr Ivory’s gelding also possessed exceptional merit, being well grown for a two-year-old, and promising to become such a horse in another twelve months as will be difficult to beat. _ _ The leaping match was the most exciting event of the day, and it formed an agreeable break to the usual monotony of agricultural shows. There were four entries, and all the contestants were well mounted. The winner, Mr T. Weston’s Centurion, took his leaps m magnificent style, and cleared Aft 9in. Mr H. Murfit’s horse took second place, clearing 4ft Sin. One of the horses entered in the competition caused considerable amusement, in evading every attempt his rider made to get him Over the jump by putting his neck under the bar when going at a good hand gallop, and removing the obstacle. Jumping was evidently not his forte. There wae a meagre show of pigs, and the exhibits, in each class, were not even. Mr 0, Skivington exhibited a well bred boar, with good constitution, and obtained a first prize for it. In the class for sows, of any ago or breed, the exhibits were widely contrasted, but they showed a fair amount of breeding, Mr Guild took first honours in the class. In the class for fat pigs of any age or breed, Mr Cone took first and second prizes with his exhibits, and one of Mr Dickenson’s was highly commended. In sheep dogs there were six entries, and they all showed good breeding. Mr Hurse’s old dog carried off first prize. The show of dairy produce was without exception the smallest that has ever been seen at an exhibition in the province, but the few who competed produced good quality in butter. The first-prize-taker, Mr Milne, showed three pounds of fresh butter of a quality that could not possibly be excelled, and the other exhibitors had nothing to be ashamed of in the specimens they produced. Mr Peach obtained the prize for a keg of salt butter, but there was no competition in this class. In New Zealand manufactures and produce the entries were very limited. For the best ten gallon keg of beer, open to all comers, Mr F. Innes was the only competitor, and he showed two samples, one at £S per hhd, and the other at £4 10s. A first prize was awarded to the former, but the judges did not consider the second deserving of a prize. For the best assortment of colonial-made boots, Mr R. Nicholas (the only exhibitor), obtained a first prize, but, although substantial, they were rather wanting in finish. Mr E. George exhibited several pairs of boots for inspection only, and they showed excellent workmanship. The solitary exhibit in shaft harness, showed creditable workmanship. Out of two horse covers exhibited by Mr C. Anderson, one obtained a first prize. Mr P. 0. Threlkeld exhibited a number of remarkably fine specimens of wool grown on sheep of his own breeding, after the third and fourth crosses from merinos. The staple waa very long and lustrous considering the cross.

The competition in agricultural implements was confined to three exhibitions, and although the quality of most of them, and especially Mr Keetley’e, was of a high class, still the contests were nearly all ore-cided for the want of more exhibitors. The great bulk of the articles were classed as extra stock, although, from their superiority the, judges awarded a prize to most of them. In the olae* for doable-furrow ploughs, Mr Keetley exhibited well finished implements of his own manufacture. Mr Johnston exhibited three implements made by Bansome and Sims, and obtained a second prize for one of them. Mr Keetley exhibited two well finished singlefurrow ploughs, one with portable sob-soUer, and the other with a patent lever head, and, although there was no competition in the classes, the judges awarded a first prize to each. In heavy and light harrows, Mr J. Little, of W oodend, maintained his position as a first prize taker with two good specimens. A number of other implements exhibited bv Mr Keetley, as extra stock, all came in for a first prize. Mr F. Lilly exhibited a highpressure force pump, with suction, and delivery hose pipe and director, and obtained a first prize for it. It is an ingenious machine of his own manufacture, and is alike suitable for a small fire-engine and a garden forcepump. The price named, £l6 10s, did not appear to be excessive. There were other exhibits which do not call for detailed notice, but it may be mentioned that a set of tripoid harrows exhibited by Mr Keetley, showeda great improvement upon the old style of chain harrow.