THE EXHIBITS.

Otago Witness, Issue 2206, 11 June 1896, Page 20A (Supplement)

THE EXHIBITS.

CHEESE, As was the case last year, the display of oheese is a very satisfactory feature of the show. The competition in all the principal classes is exceedingly keen, and the entries are by no means, confined to this part of the oolony, where the dairying industry has made such marked, progress during recent years, but included among them are some from as far north as Naw Plymouth. The Crown Dairy Factory in the latter district is, however, the only establishment in the North Island which is represented at the show. The adoption of the plan of judging the exhibits on a system of points appears to have had a satisfactory effect, as it ought necessarilly to have, inasmuch as exhibitors are thereby enabled to see wherein the defects, if any, in their manufactures lie. The standard applied this year was the same as was adopted 12 months ago, and tho judging was entrusted to Mr J. B. MacEvr&n, the chief dairy expert of the colony, whose qualifications for such a task are absolutely unquestioned. There were 10 entries in. the class for high-colour cheese, in which the Island Dairy Faotory secured first prize with an exhibit in which the colour was slightly uceven, the Orepuki Dairy Factory taking > the blue ticket indicative of second prize with an exhibit that was only a fraction of a point below the former. The Edendale , Dairy Factory had two exhibits in the straw-colour clais, in which, as in the high-colour olass, there were 10 entries ; and the exhibits of tho faotory mentioned were adjudged to be of equal merit, and to be the best in the class. All the cheese exhibited in the two classes to which reference has been made was included in the competition for Messrs John M 'Nairn and Co.'s challenge cup for the best lOowt of full cream New Zealand cheddar - shaped, coloured cheese. It is a condition of this competition that the exhibitor _ winning the cup three times — not necessarily . ia successive years — retains possession of it. The Edendale Dairy Factory gecured'the coveted trophy last year after a very close competition with the Wyndham, Inihclutha, and Orepuki factories ; and the first-mentioned factory has, this year repeated its success in a very emphatic manner, for its two exhibits which were bracketed first in the straw-coloured class head the list in this combined class with, singularly enough, the same number of points as last year. The Wyndham Factory is again that which has given t&ie winner the closast run for the enp, being credited with 94- points out; of the posaible 100, as against 96 scored by ewl* of

the Edendale exhibits. A glaaoo at fcbe tabulated statement of the points awarded to the various exhibits wiil show that the Wyndham cheese suffered in point of flavour and finish — the vetj respeots, it maybe remarked, in which the cheese from that factory wa» deficient last year. The WnikouMti, Cranley. Matsura, and Island factories came next in order. With regard to the Waikjuaiti exhibit, the judge fouud that the flavour was uneven and the texture slightly ragged, whilst the Itland Dairy Factory's exhibit suffered by unevenneas in colour. These exhibits were closely followed by that from the Orepnki Faotory, and thea canoe exhibits from the Toi-Tofs, Crown (New Plymouth), Bmee, and luchelulha Factories, which, with a third eshibit from Edendate, each gained 90 per cent;, of the possible. Mr MrcEwan noted that there was room for improvement ia tbe style of the Now Plymouth exhibit ; that tbe Bruca Factory cheese was of uneven texture ; and that the n ivour of the Inchclotha exhibit was uneven ; while the Edendale entry was very fine, excepting for its strong flavour. A striking feature presented in the table is the position occupied by the Ineholutha Factory, which, though it gained third plane in last year's competition, is thisyear absolutely last with one of its exhibits, concerning which the judgesays there were throe different colours in it, and it had a pronounced strong flavour. It being remembered that the maximum number of points for flavour was 45, for texture and quality 30, for colour 15, and for finish 10; the following table: showing the marks awarded to each exhibit under the various headings will be of interest : — '

There were 19 entries for factory-made cheese for export, but two of these were not forthcoming. Here again the Edendale Factory, with two exhibits, divided first and second prizes, with cheeses which were in no respect inferior to any of the other exhibits in the class. The Temuka Dairy Factory was a good third with an exhibit that was only inferior in respect to texture and quality. Next in order of merit came exhibits from the O'Kain'g Buy and Stirling factories. The appended table will show how the points were apportioned in this class : —

Of nine enfctieß in the class for facloiy cheese made prior to the Ist November last, two were not forthcoming, and the competition was not so keen ns in the other classes^for though the Stirling factory pressed tbe Wyndham factory hard for first place, there was a deoided difference in every respect between the exhibits whtoh secured commendation and those which were not so fortunate. An analysis of the points awarded in the competition is disclose! in the following table :—

Monsrs Tobbil), Watson, and Co., representing Mr J. Saxelby, are again the only exhibitors of oolonial-ma'de Slilton cheese ; and Mr David Doull had tt b * class for farmer-made cheese to himself. BUTTEB. The competition in the class for factory butter was hardly so keen as might have reasonably been expected, and as a matter of fact fire out of the seven entries for Messrs Ninimo and Blair's valuable challenge cup were made by the Taieri and Peninsula Milk Supply Company, which gained all tbe awards with butter which compared favourably with that exhibited last year. Two of this company's exhibits were bracketed equal for first and second place; but it is worthy of note that these were made at different; factories— one of them at Mosgiel in the factory until lately occupied by Messrs J. and R. Cuddio and the other in Dunedin. This_ class, like the classes for factory cheese, was judged on the point system ; and, for the batter understanding of the appended table, it may be mentioned that for flavour 45 points, for grain 25 points, for colour 15 points, for salting 10 points, and for finish 5 points represent perfection.

There was good competition in the classes for fresh and powdered butter, aid tbe judges were in eaoh case enthusiastic about the quality of the exhibits sent in by Miss A. Jnffcay, who gained two first prizes. In the non-separator powdered clas*, it was with considerable difficulty that a decision w«s arrived at between the first three exhibits, but the .display all round was decidedly creditable. Mro M'Tsunah also gained leading awards in the fresh butter classes, while the Edendale Dairy Factory soorcd well in the separator classes. The fancy buktar was made up in very neat and artistic designs, and tho Misaes Ketnp?hall iecured,the priusipal awards. In s*lt> butter Mrs T Brown obtained tbe only award ia tho noa-6ep»r.s.tcH" clsue, and Mrs M'T*iflsh oecured those in the separator clans. FKUIT AND HONK*. The competition in the section of the show devoted to fruit and honey was very meagre, The first class iv this division is one which might with as muoh justioe have beeu included in tbe section embracing _the butter exhibits, for tlw. exhibit is neither of fruit or honey, but of preerved milk (colonial make), and tho only exhibitor in It was Mr R. C. Lindsay. No honey in comb was shown, bub there were three exhibits of ths bottled article, and the Misses Kenap3hall gained tbe principal prizes. A oapital c&Hection of apples, including numerous varieties, was made by Mr Charles Sonntag, who had the field to himself in this cl&ea, as well an in a class for collection of fruit. BHEAD AND DRESSED POULTBY. The competition in the olasses for bread, scones, Xcc. was exceptionally keen, and the entries may be fairly said to constitute a record in point of numbers in this part of the colony. The exhibits were judged by two professional bakers, and the quality of them may perhaps ba imagined from the faot that the judges, upon inspecting the display, expressed their surprise that when there are so m»ny excellent amateur bakers in the district the professionals are able to make a living. In each' olass it was with great difficulty that a verdict was arrived at, and in the severe competition numerous exhibits of excellent quality had to be passed over. Miss J. Williamson gained the pink ticket for her exhibit of two home-made loaves, and Mrs W. beat over 40 other exhibitors in the girdle scone olass, and in a' class of nearly 70 exhibits of oven scones Mrs Spears, was the winner of the first prize. The making of potato scones is evidently not so generally practised, for there was a comparatively email entry in this class, only 21 ladies v submitting theic efforts to the inspection of the judges, and of these Miss Charters secured first award. Mrs Wilkie was the first; prize taker for the exhibit of oatmeal cakes, and Miss Barnett showed the best collection of home-made biscuita, The only exhibitors of trussed poultry were Miss Gbw and Miss Kate Bills, each of whom gained first prizes. Miss Bills- exhibited a pair of trussed pigeons, although there was no class for them. HAMS AND BACON. " The names of Messrs Wardell Bros, and Mr J. Familton are this year ' absent from tbe list of exhibitors in - this, section of the fhow ; but the display is in most respects well up to tbe mark. A disappointing feature is that- the' green hams were not ourod so well as they might have been ; but the smoked' hams were very good, and a bimilar remark applies to the smoked bacon. Some of the green bacon, however, wad slightly discoloured. Messrs A. and J. M'F-arlane gained the awards for the sides of bacon, but Messrs Allan and Smith successfully competed with them in the ham ofotaes, the green hams shown by theie exhibitors being especially noteworthy. Mr W. J. Hill, of Oamaru, gained a first prize for his exhibit of rolls of smoked bacon, and so excellent were these that it is to be regretted that he did not exhibit also in hams. The rolls of green bacon shown by Messrs Allan and Smith were, exceedingly flue ; and a very good exhibit was Mr W. Blackie's in the farmers' class for green bacon and bam. AOBICr/LTCRATi PBODTCB. In most of theolaasss in the grain section there was good competition, this being especially the case with respect to tbe wheat, which was, generally speaking, of admirable quality*. In the white Tuscan class, au exhibit from the fertile Lower Shotover district, made in the name of Mr Peter Reid, gained first prize by virtue of its being somewhat heavier than Mr J. Shennsn's exhibit. There were nino entries in the red Tuscan ol»ss, these ' including samples from South Canterbury, North Otago, Strath-T&ieri, tbe Taieri Plain, the Clutha, and Southland ; and the competition was somewhat keen. Mr R. Petrie, of Berwick, gained first prize, and the seoond went to a sack exhibited by Mrs 0. Miller, of Maungatua ; bat there was very little to chooie between them. Wheat in the white velvet olass suffered a little in condition, and the first prize was gained by Me J. Wylie, of West Taieri. In the red velvet and red chaff classes Tapanui exhibits gained the first prizes, and in the velvet ear olass Mr Albert Hill bad virtually no opposition, the only other entry being rightly considered to have been made in the wrong class. In the class for various samples not otherwise specified the first prize was taken by the .New Zealand and Australian Land Co. with a sample of Webb's Challenge, In Chevalier barley Messrs J. Speight and Co. secured the principal prize with a sample grown by Mr Frank M 'Bride, of Frankton, who was also the grower of the second prize wheat, which seemed slightly more broken than the former exhibit, while the third prize lot was also grown in tbe Frankton district. No award was made in the Cape barley class, the judges not considering a single exhibit worthy of an award. There were five exhibits of long Tartarian oats, and Mr G. Stephenson's, which secured the first pr'ze, was very heavily dressed, and ran 471b to the bushel, its weight gaining it the award. The exhibit which gained first prize for Mr Key in the Danish oat's class was also very heavily dressed. Mr A. Brown, of Gore, took first prize for dun oats with a good sample, the other exhibits in the class being only of medium quality. The Sutherland oats were a particularly good class, and the sample which Mr Hugh Smith exhibited, and with which he gained first prize, was an exceptionally fiae one. Canadians call for no special mention, but there was good competition in short Tartarians and also in sparrowbills, there being practically no difference in the latter class, so far as quality was concerned, between the first three exhibits. Weight "df cidcil the competition, Mr G. Elder, ot Cbatton, securing first prize with oats that weighed 524.1b to tbe bushel ; while Mr 0. Shand, of Balolutha, osme next, and Mr W. T. Ward, of Gore, third, wilh samples that weighed respectively 52|!b and 521b to the bushel. None of the black oats were really first rate, and in the various classes samples of Birley oats were those which gained the principal awards. GENERAL EXHIBITS. Messrs Nimmo and Blair's exhibit is, as heretofore, one of tbe most prominent features

of the show. It ts situated on, the right-hand side of the hall, aud extends from tho stage about 50ft. It comprises exhibits of about 70 varieties of seeds, principally agricultural, turnips, mangels, carrots, &o. In agricultural seeds this firm is again well to tbe front, gaining as on previous occasions many of the prizes, in this case securing no fewer tb»n 20 firsts and 8 seconds. What will commend itself most to the observant onlooker is the faot that nearly all their seeds are colonial-grown, and it must; be vory gratifyirg to all well-wishers of tha colony to see these not only holding their own, but iv most case* aotu&lly beating the imported article. That the superiority of seeds of colonial growth should be again so unmistakably demonstrated is due solely to the energy and enterprise of Messrs Nimmo and Blair. Porhtps the moat striking testimony to the worth of this firm's seeds is to be found in the specimens of plants with whioh their stand is so plentifully bedecked, all of which are the product of their seeds. It requires no expert to see the sterling excellence of these exhibits. Naturally turnips predominate, and in them special attention must be called to some elephant swedes sent in by Mr H. E. Palmer* of Otakia, which weigh as high as 281b ; and also to various Varieties ' sent in by Mr John Nimmo (Mosgiel),' Messrs A. and-J. M'Farlane (Oatrara), Mr W. Patrick (Outram), Mr C. J. Crawford (Roxburgh station), Mr J. Mitchell (Woodhaugh), and Mr Paterson (Balolutha). Thure are some fine speoimens of long rsd maDg^ls and carrots grown by Mr R. Charters, of Ury Park, Mosgiel ; crimson ' tankard mangels grown by Mr Walter Blackie, of the Taieri ; and some very large cabbages from Mr J. Mitchell, of Woodhaugh; also some fine beads of Veitch's atrtmnn giant cauliflower and drum-head savoy, brought ia by Mr Charles Wyetb, of Woodlandn. Attraction will bo found in a new potato which is exhibited (" Robin Adair "), and whioh is of handsome, unique appearance, and when boiled is said to be of it delirious flavour and good colour. Attention will be given to a bunch of winter rhubarb, exhibited for the first time, the peculiarity and excellence of whioh lies in the faot that it comes to maturity in the winter time, and may be nsed right on till Hie ordinary roots are ready for cutting. That shown is of a ' i ich colour, good size, very crisp, and perfectly ripe. Another part of this xtand is devoted to the Pl»net Jr. garden and field instruments of a similar class. They do every class of work, from grubbing and scarifying to flowing manures and seeds, dropping the latter in a oontinuom stream or at regular intervals, •owing from a handful at a time to an individual seed. With regard to seeds shown by the firm, close on 800 tons were grown this year. The stand of Messrs Donald Reid and Co., although not large, is very comprehensive in ite own .way. They axe the agents of the Christ* churoh Meat Company's Islington fevtiliuew, and are exhibiting samples of tbe Inlington fertilisers in bottles, with the gaarantee analysis as sold attaohed to each exhibit. They also are showing roots sent in by clienta who have used these fertilisers daring the past season. These exhibits are both attractive and instructive, as illustrating the advantages to ba gained by the use of the company's manure. Mr Robert Fairbairn, Ferndsle, Taieri Beach, is showing on this stand swedes grown with 3owt Ming ton turnip fertilisers and some grown, without in tbe centre of the same paddock, tbe contrast being very considerable. - Roots from the successful competitors .for the society's field competition were on this stand, being grown x with the Islington fertilisers. Mangels, turnips, swedes, carrots, potatoes, &c , grown by various clients in Southland and Otago, were set out to the best advantage. The Christehuroh Meat Company also sent down a stand of 30 long red mangels from /their exhibit at the Canterbury A. and P. Association's show, their average weights being 331b, one monster root grown by Mr Work, of Woolston, weighing* 471b. At tbe back of the stand was a very large mirror occupying the entire space,' on which was painted tbe Christcburob Meat Company's well-known brand, " The Eclipse," and setting forth the numerous prizes won by their clients at the various winter shows held this year. Thi« firm also showed specialities in fencing In the shape of Bain's patent steel droppers. This form of fenoing only requires a poit every half-ohain, toe intervening spaces being filled by droppers, which are conveniently attached to th<s wires by small wedge*. Other fencing specialties shown by the tame firm are Reid's Triplex and Titan wire-strainers. The former is a permanent strainer remaining on the fence, the latter is a movable strainer. These have secured first awards at 21 oomecntive shows and three international exhibitions. The same firm also show Clarke's carbolised wheat protector for dressing seed grain. This is a specific against the ravages of birds, and also prevents smut. The preparation has been in use ia England for many years, but was only introduced to Otago farmers last year. This firm also shows some clover and grass seeds of excellent quality,- and a novelty in the shape of a steel hone-collar and a handy tool - for cutting up poisoned pollard into cubes. The National Mortgage and -Agency Company's exhibits consist of Hayward's sheep I dips, Cross and Son's luperphosphate and special turnip fertiliser, Fanning Island guano, bonedusts, Indian bonemeM, and every description of clover and graes seeds. They are. also specially exhibiting Hayward's lungworm specific, which fs warranted by numerous testimonials to have proved invaluable as a cure for lungworm in sheep. Messrs J. H. Hancook and Co., the new proprietors of the Caledonian Oatmeal Mills, Kensington, show a quantity of their patent •• Blue Bell" oatmeal, samples of whioh may be seen on the stand. They also show a' sheaf of oats, sacks of fine Sutherland oats, groats in course of preparation for meal, and oatmeal cakes m&de from M Blue Bell" oatmeal by MrWno. Wright. Messrs Dalgety and Co. (Limited), on their stand situated on tbe left band side of tbe stage, show a choice assortment of grain and seeds ; also an exhibit of Little's sheep dip, for whioh they »re the local agents. Wr Walter Blackie's exhibit consists of 110 different kinds of farm products, all grown at Glasgow farm. The exhibit comprises wheat, oats, baled straw, hay, peas, factory butter, turnips, cabbages, broccoli, mangolds, pigs' trotters, soup, porridge, onions, and eggs. Above this comprehensive exhibit is a stuffed peacock ; and the stand is certainly attractive by reason of its variety. It secured first award for tbe beat collection from one farm, and divided honours for the best county exhibit with the Maniototo. At the far end of tbe hall Mr W. D. Sutherland exhibits samples of beetroots, running from 15 tons per acre up to 28 tons per acre, grown in various parts of the province. These root* will be sold for seedy purposes the last day ol the show, tbe proceeds being devoted to the building fund of tbe new hall. The Evening Star Company (Limited) sbo«r samples or vegetable parchment butter wrappars, and cardboard boxes for the pounff or half pound of butter. Heisrs Fletcher, Humphreys, and Co. havtt a pyramid' Shaped stand on wbioh Is exbiwte*

the Golden Apple cider fh different-sized: bottles, and in bulk. Thaagh the crop of apples was qoj large, the Bcm were fortunate enough to secure a supply of the beet description, and claim to effer a cider of superior qualify. The Productive Manure Syndicate exbitrt a fine sample of Swede turnips, grown on Mr Sconlar's first piiz« farm. Thirty tons were ■ecured to the acre with the aid of the firm's juaGures. Jn the centre of the stage wall is an exceedingly interestirg and attractive display by Messrs Hayward Bros., of Chmtchurch, the proprietors of tho well-known " Flcg B-and" pickles and sauces. In the arrangement of this •txhibifc considerable tasta faa3 been shown. Arranged in tiers en three stands, nicely set off by artietically- draped mirrors, are the firm's prinoipal manufactures, comprising pickles in gallon and half-gallon jars— presenting a most appetising appearanc?,— pickles in ordinary bottles, tomato pickles (a new venture of the firm's), tomato and Worcester sauces, table and white wine vinegar, baking powder, mushroom ketchup, Indian chutney, gravy oolourings, &c. This industry has sprung from a small beginning six years ago, and has grown to a surprising extent. It may be interesting to cote that the firm's annual purchases of raw material include 200,000 osubflowers, 40 tons onions, 30 tons encumbers, 12 tons tomatoes, besides large quantities of red cabbage, French beans, walnuts, chilis, &c. Messrs Tothfll, Watson, and Co., agents for .Button and Sons, Beading, England, again occupy a position in the centre of the' hall. The, back, of their exhibit consists of samples of grains' and seeds done up in glass oases in ah attractive manner. la the front are several rows of bags, arranged in tiers, containiog a large variety of seeds of all kinds, the majority of these beicg part of the collection tbat teok the gold medal for best collection of field seeds at 1 the Invercargill winter show. At each end tf the stand are exhibited a number of roots of maogels, turnips, &c, which give ample proof t>f the superior quality of Button's seeds. 'Among them may be mentioned the following varieties : Button's Prize-winner and Mammoth Locg Bed Mangels, Button's Elephant and Crimson Kiug Swede, and Favourite, and Perfection Hybrids. Roots from this firm's seeds have been very successful in the root competitions, having taken a number of first and second prizes. In the field competition for turnips lately held under the auspices of the Otago A. and P. Association, growers of roots from button's seeds hnve obtained the bulk of the prizes. The Canterbury Seed Company (Limited) have one of the largest and best displays of seeds in the show. Borne 70 different varieties are shown in strong liceu bags mads up the same as those sent out to the customers of the Company,, The quality of the seeds is good, at $he awards obtained at the Ohristchurch winter snow certify, the company obtaining, 19 first prizes oat of a total of 23— being placed first in white, red, al&ike, and cowgrass clover, &o. The cocksfoot exhibited, by the company is »n especially fine sample, weighing 24-lb to the bushel, and the perennial ryegrass shown was victorious oveit that shown by eight other competitors. The gold medal of the society was awarded, to the Seed Company for the best collection of eoloniftl-grown seeds. The company also exhibit an assortment of mangels and turnips which have been grown by the farmers of Canterbury from eeed supplied by the Seed Company, the mammoth size and solidity of Which is a cause of universal commendation. Noticeable among the roob exhibits ehown by phis firm are some golden and crimson tankard mangels, which are being largely u-ed in the northern patts of this island for feeding sheep. Sl testimonial from Mr J. Gunn, of Methven, States that the turnip seed supplied by the company was splendidly true to name, and the j 150 acres of turnips a " triumph." Stronach Bros, and Mocris have a stand containing several articles for which they act as agents. • One of these is "Toxa"- rabbit and bird poison, which is now so well known that it bardly requires comment. One of the cards v attached to this exhibit states that SSO rabbits have been killed with the contents of a 21b tin, and another shows the death toll of rabbits destroyed by it during the year 1895 to exceed •13,000,000. One of its many advantages is 'that neither sheep nor cattle will touch it. Ness and Co.'s fluid and powder sheep dips are also shown on this stand. This dip has not been very long 6a the New Zealand market, but it is an old-established English dip, and since its introduction here has caught on. It bears very bigh testimonials, amongst, many others being the highest award at the World's Fair, Chicago. •'Dayia's Detective Earmarker and Brand" ifi a simple contrivance fox the private marking of sheep and other animals. It is well spoken of amongst those who have used it, and acts as a check on sheep-stealers, the sheep of any man who uses it being given a wide berth by those light-fingered gentry. "Graham's Patent Permanent Footrofc Cure," as the name implies, is a lasting remedy foe this disease, and is (recommended to anyone whose sheep may be infected. It has been efficacious in the north, and no doubt will bs equally successful in this part of the colony when its benefits are properly known. It would not be right to pass from this ! atand without reference to a magnificent head ! of a red deer which bears the inscription " Grown in Central Otago." This specimen j , comes from the Hawet. district, and is a good advertisement for that part or. the province from a sporting point /<)f view. ', Eempthorne, Prosser, and Co. occupy some 20ft of space, and have a very fine exhibit of artificial manures, lineeed oil cake, &o. The manures comprise tome 16 varieties, each of which is suited to a- special crop, and judging' from the fine specimens of roots shown on the stand these fertilisers are evidently of very high quality. One huge turnip grown by Mr Paterson, of Balcluths, weighed over 321b. Amongst the potatoes shown were two specially interesting lots grown by Messrs J. and T. Eobertson, North Taieri, in the same paddock, one using ordinary farmyard manure and the other the special potato manure. The difference between these two lots was very great. On another part' of the stand was shown a large collection of blight specifics for insect pests in fruit and flowers. Linseed oil cake, which is attracting much attention from breeders of stock, was shown in several forms — whole cake, crushed cake for cattle and sheep, fine cake for calves, and also samples mixed with chaff for feeding sheep from boxes or troughs. " Kiwi " tea tablets were also much inevidence, and recommend themselves to thrifty* housewives. Messrs Murray, Roberts, and Co. exhibit a number of the leading lines offered to colonial taroolgrowers in connection with the pastoral industry; There is a particularly tasteful display of Little's and Cooper's, the two bestknown ' English sheep dips ; also a number of samples of "Messrs Joseph Fison and Co/s ipecial turnip fertilisers, which are now largely in favour in this colony. The stand' also confcains a choice assortment of colonial-grown Seeds for permanent pastures, conspicuous amongst which are the well-knows Maniototo tyegrass, Akaroa cocksfoot, and Chewings's fescue. In additfoj fro these, exjiibita there are

footrot dures, tungworm drenches, and other requisites for farm and station use. *

Messrs A. and J.. .M'Farlane have a finely furnished bay in the main hall, the appearance of which cannot fail to attract much attention, not only on account of the high excellence of ; the goods exhibited, but beoanso of the artistic manner in which the various lines are set. out, and for which Mr Dick and Mr Montgomery deserve a word of praise. A fitting centrepiece is a 1501b porker, indicating the class of Idiiry-fed pigs of which the various surroundj ing hams, bacon, and small-goods are the out- : come. The latter comprise* sausages in variety, j brawn, perk piep, savo'oys, hftmand'ohickon in I skins, and other toothsome dsinties which are better seen and tasted than desoribed. Suckiug pigs also embellish the stand, the look of which will delight the eye of the epicure. Altogether it is no exaggeration to say that the bay of Messrs M'Farlane leaves nothing to be desired, and forms a prominent feature of the show. Mr Wright, who is the artist in pork specialties for Messrs M'Farlane, has every reason to be proud of the result of his labours. In the centre of the hall Messrs M'Farlane have an extensive show of bams and bacon of high-class appearance, bright in colour and evenly mixed — fed up to the hour, in point of fact. In the band room upstairs the Messrs M'Farlane have an attcnc- • tive display of tinned goods, comprising jams and jellies, honey, and various condiment} tastefully got up uader the "Th'stle" brfind. Baking powd>r also is a line in whioh they excel Mr Findloy, the firm's faotory manager, evidently understands his business, and has done full justice to his employers. Altogether, the various exhibits by Messrs M'Farlane do tbem credit, and while they form a very attractive feature of the show, they also exemplify the energy and up-to-date business capacities . of the firm. The New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company exhibit some splendid turnips grown by Mr G. H. Gilrdy, of Stirling ; Mr W. S. Mosley, of Inchclutha ; and Mr William Grey, of Milbnrn. All of tbeie gentlemen won ( first awards in the field turnip competitions under tho auspices of the Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Society, and the manure used in each instance wa* Maiden Island guano. Messrs A. Sutherland (Te Houka) and J. C. Anderson (Stirling) show some first-das* turnips grown by the same guano. The company also exhibit Sff'DougaU's sheep dip— one of the oldest dips in England, and extensively used throughout the United KißgdVm and tho colonies. The A. and P. Society -how a collection of turnip roots grown from need supplied by the Government. Mr John Scott exhibits samples of seed, dressed.fl&x/and flax soaked, dried, and prepared for scutching. He also shows samples of fibre seed, Dutoh-seed, and seed-growing seed. The Maniototo County have on the stage an exhibit that shows what can be grown in Central Olago. They exhibit specimens of almost every variety of vegetables, winter fruits, oats, wheat, &c, and taken as k whole the display compares favourably with other exhibits. Mr 0. J. Thorn shows a hand churn, Mr Harraway rolled oatmeal and groat", Mm Morris a quantity of electric heeling remedies. One. of the firat rxbibit? that meet tho eye on entering the building is that of the Donagby'* Rope and Twine Company. The exhibit is not ao large aa thoeo which have been usually made by the firm, but it gives a complete illustration of the various goods turned out. First,' we noticed various brands of binder twine, manila, mixed, and fl»x. ' All these are up to the well-known standard of quality. The next feature in tha stand is tha seaming and roping twine, a branch of the business only recently entered upon by the company. Amongst these can be seen all the several qualities required by sailmakers, millers, and the general users of bagging twines, either in three or five-ply form. The company are finding a constantly increasing demand for these. goods. Closely allied with this branch of a oordago-maker's business is that of plough line manufacture, which again is also a new feature, machinery having been fitted up to meet the requirements of the trade. It goes without saying that Donaghy'« ropes— botji manila and flax — are in evidence, and no more need be said with regard to these goods than that they are "Doneghy's." In conclusion we can only say that this firm appears to have faith in the future of the agricultural interest, judging by the readiness they display to spend money in new departures connected with their business. ' The Milbur-n Lime and Cement Company have a good display of their manufactures, and have an attractive exhibit in the shape of a cement-testing machine at work. Manures, dip«, and specimens of roots grown from seeds sold by the Farmers' Agency Company form the chief part of that firm's exhibits. The stand is a large and varied one, and the roots exhibited are not only from the seed sold by the firm but were raised by means of tha fertilisers for which the company is agent. The Agricultural department exhibits packages of butter suitable for export, representing different districts from Taranaki to Southland. Mr MaoEwan, tho Government expert, set afoot the idea, his object being to give a comparative display of butter characteristic of each district. An unostentatious yet highly valuable exhibit is a specimen of maize grown by Mr John Stevens, of Henley, from seeds procured last year from Canada by Mr MacEwan. The seeds were obtained and distributed in different parts of the colony, with a view to seeing bow the maize would thrive for ensilage purposes. Unfortunately the planting was effected too late in ' the season, and frosts in various parts of the country severely checked its growth. This maize plays an important) part in the dairy industry in Canada, for by means of the ensilage the cost of winter food is reduced to a minimum. Although the seasons are irregular here Mr MacEwan believes that under favourable conditions the Canadian maize can be grown here with favourable results so far as yield per acre is concerned. His remarks in this respect applies to all parts of the colony. Considering the circumstances under which it was grown, Mr MacEwan is quite satisfied with the samples on view at the show, and he states that the general opinion of tho?e who received seeds was that with favourable conditions the plant could be grown with profit. An important factor in the dairying industry is the successful growth of fodder plants to feed cattle in the off-season at a small cost. The Agricultural department also display a collection of apples, while Messrs Saxon Bros, had on view a quantity of butter. The Cranley Dairy Company makes a very fine exhibition of cheese, tha texture, flavouring, and colouring being admirable. The National Dairy A«sociation hive an interesting exhibit in the shape of two Canadian cheddar, two Scotch cheddar, and two English cheddar. Questioned as regards these, Mr MacEwan, the Government expert, states that it is quite evident from their present condition that they are not repreaer .ative of the best quality of the cheese turned out in the respective countries from which they have come, and this remark applies with special force to the Canadian cheese. A peculiar importance ifl attached to the exhibit by reason of.

the mode of carriage adopted in the transit. The oheeses were placed in ordinary cases and packed in sawdust and salt, being stowed away in the hold with the ordinary cargo. They have suffered on the way, however, to * greater or less extent, as will be gathered by an inspection, The chief object of the association in importing the cheese was to give people in the colony an idea of the quality of the cheese manufactured in tho Home country and Canada; bat, as before stated, the eihibis cannot be taken as a true criterion owing to the faulty condition in which they have arrived. The Albert ohurn is shown by Messrs Edward Thomas nnd Co., who are to be complim&nted upon the excellence of their exhibit. The "Albert" is made of wood, with an iron spindle running perpendicularly down the centre, attached to which is a wooden fan whioh revolves at a great speed between two regulators set in such a position as to, create a uniform and perfect commotion — every particle of the cream bang cqailly churned at the same time. The churn is covered with a lid which is so made as to admit the air and to open easily at the wish of the operator without stopping churning. The churn is exceedingly simple and easily put together and taken apart, and is a very great improvement upon the eld-fashioned American article. One great advantage possessed by the Albert is that with ordinary care it is impossible to over-churn the butter, and another is that it gjves tho fullest possible percentage of butter from a given quantity of cream,- and does the work in a few minutes in place of the long and tedious time required to churn nnder the old system. The butter it turns out is perfectly aerated and granulated, and is pronounced by expect* to be of very fine quality. We are thoroughly satisfied there is a future before this ohurn. Messrs Edward Thomas and Co , the agents, have arranged to show the chum in active use,, so that farmers and others visiting the chow can satisfy themselves as to its merits. Messrs A. and T. Buit have a very fioe display of dairying machinery and requisites, also a large variety of pumps working. The exhibits chiefly comprise Alpha eeparators, eteam turbine milk pasteuriser, butterworks, butter printers, curd knives, aerators, chee-e and milk soalee, steam turbine milk tester, batyrometer, perfection milk gates, curd cocks, lift and force pump;, pluvial- agitator and knapsack, fruitspiaying pumps, Hitches tinned steel milk buckets, &c. The chief exhibit is the steam turbine milk beater cr pasteuriser. The advantages of patteurrcing or heating milk up to a temperature of 150 deg to 158deg Fabr., and thereafter quickly cooliDg ib down, ought to be more widely known. By such a process the milk becomes a more wholesome food, its keeping qualities are greatly improved, and any germs of disease or ferments which may ba found in milk are neutralised, if not entirely destroyed. Heating the milk is especially advantageous when it is desired (o produce barter for storing. Messrs Aulsebrook, of Chriatcaurch, exhibit a sample of cocoa made by new machinery but recently imported from Home, together with a varied assortment of biscuits, confectionery, bo. The firm have recently mado a new departure in the manufacture of chocolate creams, &o , wbich*aro quite up t> the ttcn'Jard of tho imported articles. As there is a stiff duty on imported' cocoa ' and chocolates the enterprise of Messrs Auslebrook will prove a direct swing to the consumer. Messrs P. and D. Duncan exhibit a springtooth cultivator and seeder. The machine is designed principally for the eradication of coucb, sorrell, and all kinds of weeds. It is likewise useful for drawing turnips and for the general cultivation of the ground. It is cl timed for it by the makers in the matter of cultivation that the productive' qualities of the soil are greatly enhanced by its use. The firm have been turning out this machine for only 15 months, bat already they have manufactured nearly 400. The machine is of handsome design, and combines strength with lightness, being constructed of steel throughout. The spring tines, it ii -further claimed, are almost; unbreakable. The firm have imported machinery for the special purpose of testing all the tines, and the strength of each is thereby assured before it leaves the workshop. Mr C. D. Lightband, of Ohriatchuch, exhibits an improved canvas and leather binder apron, of which he is the patentee ; together with various lines of gooda turned out by the firm, comprising travelling bags, leggings, boots, &c, in chrome bluff leather — a new process of tanning, which imparts remarkable strength and also excellent wearing properties to the material. It possesses all the qualities of buckskin, but it is obtainable at half the cost of that article. Mr Lightband also displays leather mill belting of his own manufacture, glue, sise, and gelatine. Mr B. M. Hoops is tho Danediu agent. Messrs Reid and Gray exhibit their 14-coulter ' No. 3 Eureka Grain, Turnip, and Manure Drill, fitted with all the latest improvements. The most notici-abie is the extremely handy device for adjusting the depth of the conlters while at work and for clearance when turning. The "Champion" double-furrow plough sbown is fit.tedwithMay's patent width and dopth adjuster, now so well and favourably known. The No. 1 "" New Zealander " chaffcutter and bagger, fitted with double rollers, also finds a place amongst the exhibits. The "Pony" binder which is shown by the firm was made by the noted firm of William Deering and Co., Chicago. It is a 6ft-cut -machine fitted with roller bearings, decreasing the di-iught so niuoh as to render it possible for two horses to draw it in the heaviest and most tangled crop. It has cut,' the firm's representative states, 420 acres last season, and has been used at four trials. The Buckeye Harvester Company have on view Cockshut's agricultural implements, chief among-t whioh is a double-furrow plough. Tha firm have had an exceptional run on this plough, with the result tbat they have completely Eold out. However, a shipment is shortjy to arrive. This plough, the firm's representative says, has taken all the principal prizes at ploughing matches Jn Scotland and England. The, firm also exhibit a potato and tnruip hitler, which has also met with a great sale, besides Odatns's sheep dip and manures. Morrow, Bassett, and Co. exhibit a colonial combined grain, grass, turnip, and manure drill, with several improvements on it intended to make the labour easier, more simple, and complete than formerly. The grass seed box is now driven by a chain direct, and the quantities regulated by table. The drill frame is all m%de of angle steel, and the feed boxes fitted with patent feeding apparatus. The wheels have wide rims to prevent, them sinking into soft ground. There are Mirny other improvements too numerous to mention in the space at our disposal. They must, however, be seen to be understood. Farmers should certainly not miss visiting the ttand. Morrow, Bassett, and Co. are also exhibiting two American bicycles, which are evidently well made, and bear on the face of them the stamp of a good article. The Sterling and New Haven machines will compare to advantage with anything we have yet seen. The Walter A. Wood Company have en'

exhibition the well-known "Farmers' Favotfrite' grain drills, whioh represent one of their StanI dard lines. One is a 13-sprmg coulter com- | bined for manure and grain ; the other is a 15-ocultec shoe drill. This drill is specially adapted for working in sandy or mucky soils, , and especially in sucb soils where there is much sarfsce rubbish — like dry stubble or weeds. The spring pressure lever w another noticeable feature in these drills, when the coulters can be forced iuto hard soil if required. These drills are furnished with patent truss rods, rigidly sus- | tnining the centre of the frame. As to the I wheels, the rims are of oak, the spokes are of i hickory, while there are 3in steel tyres. The wheels are well clear of the box, and the axle is furnished with extra centre bearing. The I machines are furnished this season with a special turnip and and rape sowing attachment, sowing 14, 21, and 25 inches apart. All these drills are well balanced, and possess more desirable features than any other maohine in the market* It will well repay the farmers to have a look at Massey-Harria Company's stand, which contains the celebrated implements manufactured by this firth at their works, Toronto, Brantford, and Woodstock, Canada. They comprise the 13 and 17-tooth three-row ipring-tooth oulti- J I vators, with grain-box and turnip attachment I (which hare been sold to farmers throughout the colony, giving the greatest satisfaction), 15 j and 19 shoe drills, No. 3 and Big " B " Brant- j ford mower*, New. 1 and 2 scuffles, 4a and ' 3 I X.L. tingle-furrow plough. It is needless ! for us to dwell at length upon the excellence of the Massey-Harris Company's implements, as they have all got such a good reputation in this colony." We may state, however, that the firm would like to have shown one of their celebrated Mamy- Harris wide-oven binders ah this show, but they have been prevented from doing so owing to their entire shipments las); season for all Australasia having been sold out. We should advise those in want of real good agricultural implements to visit the Massey-Hama stand before going elsewhere. Messrs Andrews and Beaven, Clmafcchurch, exhibit one of their well-kuowu ch-ffcutfcer and baggers, which attested a good deal of attention. Mr H. L. Mainland shows his "featherweight " rabbit traps, and gave an exposition of their woYking to interested gatherings. Mr A. W. Lepge, of Balclutha, is represented by special ens of his well - known agricultural implements. * Messrs Mu'ray, IlobertH, and Co. have on view a 2£ brake h.p. Hornsby-AdkroyJ oil engine. This is a new motive power which ia well worth the attention of all these iiiferested in agricultural pursuits, as it presents peculiar advantages boih in the way of saving time and expense, while it requires no special skill to work it. The motive power is suppiied by utilising the explosion of petroleum vapour fcr driving purposes in the same w&y in which gas is need in the ordinary gas engine. Th<3 coat of working is exceedingly low, being only a shade over Id per brake h p. per hour after allowing for freight 1 , duty, jand other charges. The engine can be easily started in from 4mia to '6miu, and after this has been, Accomplished it requires no further attention beyond what is ncceauary for oiling. Wo notice that Messrs Hornsbj arid Son acquired tha first prises »fc tbs'Boyal Agricultural Society's trial for o 1 engines in beta the stationary and portable classes. Messrs Wright, Stephenson, and Co. have a first-class display *of artificial manures, agricultural etedn, sheep dip, &o. Considering that the seed department i?, comparatively speaking, a new branch of their business the position this old-established firm occupies in the prize-list of this year's show must be regarded as both encouraging and satisfactory, for quite a number of their exhibits are firat, second, or third in classes where competition was strong. Only seeds of the very beat quality, tested by themselves as to germination, are k^pfc in stock. The magnificent samples of perennial ryegraxs seed, cocksfoot, Italian ryegraj/i seed, fescues, clovers, and tmrnip seeds shown by them give tvi deuce o! the most careful selection. Messrs Wright, Stephenson, and Co. are particularly atrong with their artificial manure exhibit. Manures of attested analysis and of kinds suitable for all classes of soil are to be soen on their stand. They hold sole agency for the sale of the following wellknown fertilisers — viz., Cli&llenj-e superpbospbate, Lady Elliot and Cjrnl Queen guanos, Gear Company's turnip manures, also subagency for the wrl!-kuown Standard bone manures. The Challenge superphosphate is the highest-grade superphosphate impoitsd, containing no less than 39 per cent, of soluble phosphate of lime, 15 psr cent, insoluble phosphate, and 1 per cent, ammonia. It ia in a very fine etata of division and as dry as powder, running through themaobine drills with* out ever clogging or becoming " caked." The Challenge superphosphate is manufactured from burnt bonce, containing no less than 75 per cent of phosphates of lime. It is considered by those who have used it to be one of the best and rheipsst '• supers" imported into this market. The Ludy Elliob Island guano ia entering uvon its third season in this market, and it has es'ablUhcd itseif as a favourite with the farmers of Tokomairiro and Wniwera, to which districts it has provad itself peculiarly 'adapted. So far Messrs Wright, Stephenion, and Co. have not had a solitary complaint about its fertilising properties, and ii is worth noting that Mr Win. Grey, of Milburn, who gained the field turnip competition this'year, used it. Close upon 1000 tons are being imported this year. Some interesting photographs are shown by this firm of the island where this guano is procured. Malays and Chinese may be seen working side by side at the deposits, ships lying inside the reefs awaiting their cargoes, &o. Coral Queen is the name of the other guano sold by this firm, and a glance aff tho i analysis duly certified, together with a comparison of the analyses of other brands, at once j shows that this is the h'ghest grade guano sold in Otago and Southland, the phosphates being 66 per cent. Tho Gear Company's (Wellington) turnip manures form part of Messrs Wright, Stephenson, and Co.'s display. This manufacture, which is of much improved appearance this year, is held in the highest repute by farmers at the Taieri, Clufcha, and in Southland. Standtrd boneduat is too well and favourably known to render comment necessary. Last year it was found quite impossible to execute all the orders that came,, in for it. The "Highland Sheep Dip" is new to this market. It may be had in liquid, paste, or powder' form. It is manufactured by Mr Alexander Robertson (chemist, Oban), and it is spoken of in Woods's famous essay on sheep-dipping as one of the best and most effective dips manufactured in Britain. It finds a very large sale in Soatlsnd and South America. Ford'a Juugworm mixture and agricultural salt are amongst the other articles ' shown by Messrs Wright, Stephenson, and Co. The prize list will be found on page 36a.

From Westport last week 6340 tons of coal were shipped, of which tho Westport Company contributed 4880 ton?, Cardiff Company 1188 tons, and Mokihinui Comnanv 272 tons*

a o 5 g i 60 a I 4 'a E 1 Daieri and Peninsula Milk Supply Co. ... L'aieri and Peninsula JMilk Supply Co (No. 2) L'aieri and Peuinsula Milk Supply Co. (No, 3) Daieri and Peninsula Milk Supply Co. (No. 4) Dai'Ti and Peninsula Milk Supply Co. (No. 5) tValtor Blackie r. Wilaoa, Sew Plymouth. „ »>• .^. 43 43 43 - 24 24 21 id 14 13 « 10 10 5 96 9(5 95 43 13 10 95 42 40 24 14 14 10 c 5 4J 95 91i 39 24 12 9 4

§■ I i 14 I 9. 9 i 06 94 92} Wyndham Dairy Factory Stirling D.Fr Stirling D.F. (No. 2) ... Rata fa v i Co-operative Dairy Association Inchclutha D.F Waikouaiti D.F Bruce D.F. David Donll ... „. 42 42 40 42 35 37 35 35 29 29 29* 28 29 27 26 26 14 Hi 13 U 12 8 ?■ 8 7 ! 92 87 85 83 89

Dairy Factory. I 2 £ I •a ■s H Edendale D. F. Edondale D.F. (No. 2)... Temuka D. F. Okains D. F. Stirling D. F. ... ... WyndhamD. F. ... Cranley D. F. Edm-taleD. F. (No. 3)... Stirling D. F. (No. 2) ... Crown D. *' lucbelutha D. F Temuka Cheese Factory Orepuki D. F Island D; F. Otara D. F Glenham D. F Otara P. F. (No. 2) ft 43 43 43 43 43 42 42 40 41 42 41 41 41 40 33 41 35 29 29 28 28 29 29 88 29 28 27 28 £7 27 28 29 27 £9 U 14 14 14 13} 144 14 14 14 14 13i 14 13 14 14 12 14 f f 9 f 8 8} t 8 8 f 95* 95* 94| 94 94 93} 94 92} 92 91 91 90} 90 90 89 88} 86

- Dairy Factohy. i I si Q I ICdendale Edendule (No. 2) Wyndhara ... Waikouaiti [stand Qranley ... Mataura Drepuki ... l'ois Tois, Glanbam Drown, New Plymouth Bruce [nchclutha Edend»le (No. 3) Wyndham (No. 2) Stirling 3tirlingi (No. 2) Dfcara, Fortrose Wuikouaiti (No. 2) ... [eland (No. 2) [nchclutha (No. 2) 43 43 42 40 42 42 42 40} 41 42 42 40 38 38 39 41 40 41 25 37 29 29 29 > 28 26 28 28 28 27 28 27 28 29 29 27 29 28 27 28 28 14 14 14 14 13 13 14 14 14 13 14 14 14 14 14 10 13 11 14 10 10 10 9 9 8 8 7 8 8 7 7 8 9 !' 9 7 8 8 Si 96 90 94 91 91 91 91 90J 90 90 90 90 90 89 89 89 88 87 85 83