Thoroughly Colonial

Southland Times, Issue 11750, 1 June 1891, Page 3

Thoroughly Colonial

TO THE EDITOR.

Sir, — During the course of a recent trip through Southland I was surprised to find that so many farmers neglect to dip their sheep. As a rule the larger flocks are attended to, but the owners of from fifty to two hundred sheep in a great many cases omit this necessary operation. Of course the chief argument is the expense of a dip, but in these days of unionism the utility of nooperation in a case of this sort should hardly need suggestion. A very fair dip as regards capacity, with drip pen and race, can be constructed for under Lls ; surely a small matter for a few farmers to contribute among themselves. Apropos of the subject, a rather amusing incident came under my notice lately. A worthy farmer friend of mine erected a new dip concrete trough, with double exits, patent gangway, &c. , and before it was actually finished applications from neighbours and others to be allowed tbe use of the dip poured in. All went well until final arrangements came to be discussed, when my friend mentioned as a matter of course his intention to make a small charge, more to cover the damage to his paddock than anything else, when lo ! with the exception of two or three, gifted with a little ordinary common sense, all withdrew their requests, and rather than pay a trifle to get their sheep dipped, resorted to the old tub and swamp- hole, or else left them alone ; and not only that, but after years of friendship " we don't know each other now," said my informant sadly. — I am, &c, Bucolio. 28th May.