BARK OF ROSE TREE EATEN (H. R. C.).-It is difficult to know what insect has injured your Rose shoots; from all appearance we should think it some large beetle. Examine the tree at night, Most probably, as the injury is somewhat local, there is harbour for the insects near. ZONAL PELARGONIUMS (Idem).-You do not say what time you want the Zonal Pelargoniums to bloom. If in spring, select strong and healthy young plants in autumn; cut them back in September, and grow-on, giving them all the light you can in the winter. If for summer, the ordinary treatment for Geraniums will answer, being careful to pinch back strong shoots, so as not to allow the coarser shoots to take all the strength of the plants. If for autumn blooming, cut back in spring, and keep potting as occasion may require. Let the plants grow near the glass with plenty of light and air, but slight shade from extreme sua. If we knew the especial object for which you require them we could give a much more definite answer. Avoid too many sticks and tying-out. TWENTY-FOUR SHOW PELARGOUIUMS (P.).—Black Prince, dark upper petals; lower, crimson; white eye. Imperator, dark flower; rich dark upper petals; lower, carmine with dark spot; fine. Duke of Edinburgh, crimson and maroon; black top petals. Exemplar, lower petals rose, white eye, upper petals dark. Holker, top petals dark; lower, orange maroon. Charles Turner, very bright shaded scarlet, small white eye. Heirloom, shaded dark upper petal; lower, orange rose. Congress. maroon upper, lower rose, white eye. Corsair, upper, purplish black; lower, lighter; white eye. Sultana, top petals purple; lower, rosy purple. Lilacina, lilac maroon spot; white eye. John Hoyle, orange red; fine form. Mary Hoyle, very warm soft rose; upper petals darker. Pompey, maroon top, orange lower; white eye. Basha, top, crimson and black; lower, orange crimson; Brigand, orange pink; dark spot on upper petals. Pretender, fiery crimson and black. Clanbel, white, with slight spot. Woman-in-white, white upper petal, dark spot. Charlemagne, salmon pink; dark spot upper petals; William Hoyle, fine scarlet crimson; upper, black. Gold Button, white and red. Achievement, large light variety; lilac rose, upper petals maroon. Prelate, dark upper petals; lower, purple maroon. HAIR-LIKE WORMS (Dornoch Firth).-These thread-like and intricatelytwisting worms occur abundantly after rains following hot weather. They are the Gordius aquaticus. It belongs, like the leech, to the class Suctoria, or suckers, scarcely exhibits any marks of articulation on its body, and has no distinct respiratory organs. Its colour is pale brown, a and being found in such a twisted form, as already noticed, suggested its name after the inventor of the Gordian knot. The mouth is a simple pore at the fore extremity of the body, which is conical; but the tail being forked, as represented at a, has often been mistaken for its mouth. Its habits are little known, but we are inclined to think it one of the anglicum; 4, S. anglicum var. (?); 2, S. rupestre, 6, S. sp.; 3, Saxifraga elatior; 5, S. Aizoon. (I.F.).-Escallonia sp. (W. G. C.).-1, Kerria japonica; 2, Pyrus sp.; 3, Ruscus aculeatus; 4 and 5, leaves on y; 6, Euonymus europæus. (T. B. W.).-1, Apparently a Geum; 2, Hemerocallis flava. (C. H.).We believe, but cannot be certain, that it is that most enduring of Ferns for a plant case, Pteris serrulata. POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE. EXHIBITING SINGLE BIRDS. IN your Journal of May 22nd, "IMPARTIAL " advocates the single-bird system, and in his letter of the 12th inst., upon the limiting system, he says that he is somewhat disappointed in not seeing any further remarks upon the subject. Halifax was both father and mother of the single-bird system, as at that town was held the first exhibition where the birds in the whole of the classes were shown singly. In 1860, thirteen years ago, Halifax held its third exhibition, and issued a prize list with forty classes, birds to be shown singly, there being separate classes for cocks and separate classes for hens; the total number of entries was 504. Carriers headed the list with 53 entries; Pouters had 75 entries; Almond Tumblers, 25; Jacobins, 30; Turbits, 32; Barbs, 29; Owls, 45; Fantails, 45; Dragoons, 25; and Trumpeters, 20. Such entries as these will give some idea of the result of the single-bird system. This was in the days of Peter Eden, of Salford, who exhibited twenty-six pens and obtained six first and two second prizes, ten high commendations, and three commendations. There was a sweepstakes for Pouters, which was won by Peter Eden. There were also extra prizes in the Almond classes, in addition to the class prizes. The first and extra prizes for Almond cocks was carried off by Mr. Esquilant, of London. The first honours and extra prize for Almond hens were won by Mr. Harry Wandle "fra cannie Newcassel." The Judges were Mr. Harrison Weir and Mr. P. H. Jones. The following year Halifax held its fourth and last exhibition. Why this exhibition was allowed to fall to the ground I have never been able to ascertain. From that time I never saw or heard of an exhibition upon the single-bird system until Bedlington tried it in 1871; then friends of the gardener, for two parties observed one escape lately from the Durham, Birmingham, and Newcastle-upon-Tyne tried it, and body of a beetle, which they found writhing on the ground. PEA Rows SoWN NORTH AND SOUTH, OR EAST AND WEST (S. C.).-We have not noticed any difference in the earliness of the crops, but we find that the Peas grow most to the sun side of rows sown east and west, and on that side the pods are fit to gather sooner, and are more numerous on the south than north side of the row. Sown with the ends north and south the haulm is equally disposed on both sides, and there is no perceptible difference in the earliness, quality, or quantity of the produce. On this account we prefer the rows pointing north and south. There is, however, no great difference; and for the very reason you assign we sow them, except on sheltered borders, with ends east and west, convinced that they are more secure against east and west winds. all found it a success. The last-named town had a success such as I should say was never before known. Now, I am glad to see that at many other shows the same principle is adopted, and I advise those who have not yet done so to try it, and they will be sure of success. I quite agree with "IMPARTIAL " upon the single-bird system, but shall always set my foot upon any principle of limiting the prices of birds for exhibition, as there ought not to be any difference made between the dealer and the amateur.-TYNESIDE. POULTRY SHOW. MIGNONETTE FAILING (Unsuccessful).-We have no knowledge of the small black insects that attack the Mignonette; but we apprehend they are, as you HANTS AND BERKS AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY'S employed ducks last year and soot this season, slugs, the small black sort which as you say are very destructive. We should give the ground a good dressing of quicklime and point it in with a fork, or if you have any plants left we should sprinkle it on the surface, and after rain when they will be near the surface, and best in the evening. If no plants are left give a good liming now, and again before sowing next year, pointing it in each time with a fork, When the plants appear dust them occasionally with the lime, especially in moist weather. You should have abundance another season. POTATOES DISEASED.-"I send yor a top of American Early Rose. About five per cent. of the plants are thus affected. In a few days the tops die down to the ground. I have seen half a dozen similar cases in Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, and in every instance only the American Early Rose are thus affected.-ST. EDMUND." [The leaves are very severely ulcerated, and we fear you will find the tubers similarly decayed. We cannot assign a cause any more than we can for the genuine "Potato murrain," of which we incline to think your Potatoes are suffering; but if so, it is a very early development. Examine the tubers of some of the plants, and inform us if they are ulcerated. If not, then we think your Potatoes are attacked by the "curl."] VINES UNPRODUCTIVE (R. R. S.).-We have won excellent crops from a similar soil and subsoil. You had better have been content with the 18 inches of surface soil, and not have excavated the chalk subsoil. Manure the surface to the depth of 9 inches, mulch the surface, and water once a-week with weak liquid manure. Cut off all the yellow-leaved terminations of the laterals. Next year you will have Grapes. WOODLICE IN MUSHROOM BED (J. C. H.).-If you can get at the walls and without wetting the bed much, place a little hay all round at the foot of the wall next the bed, and pour boiling water down the walls and on the hay. It will kill all it touches, also all the Mushrooms it comes into contact with; therefore avoid pouring it on the bed. If that be impracticable, boil some potatoes, wrap them in a little hay loosely, and place at the bottom of small flower-pots and lay them on their sides, which examine every day, and shake out the vermin into a bucket of boiling water. NAMES OF PLANTS (G. A.).—We cannot identify plants from leaves only (Peter). We cannot name florists' varieties; it is one of their Pyrethrums. (4. G.).-1, Pyrus Aria; 2, Siphocampylus sp., perhaps S. longipedunculatus, Pohl; 3, we do not recognise. (W.).-The Orchid was too far gone when we received it. (J. C.).-2, Onychium japonicum; 3 and 4, Blechnum occidentale; 5, Dicksonia davallioides; 6, Asplenium flaccidum; 7, Doodia, probably aspera; 8, Goniophlebium appendiculatum. (M. R.).-1, Aspidium acrostichoides; 2, Indeterminable; 3, Asplenium lucidum. (E. C. L.).—1, Sedum "ROLLING Stones gather no moss," so says the proverb; but it is not true of shows. That of which we write would have died of ennui had it remained at home; but it went out to seek its fortune, and found it. Now, like a beauty conscious of having deserved the admiration that follows her, it skips from town to town, basks in the patronage of Royalty, is honoured by municipalities, opened in state by sound of trumpet, and rejoices in a goodly balance. Instead of an ordinary field, with here and there a tent, now and then a post to which a quadruped was tied, and sundry common hurdles containing here sheep and there pigs, commodious substantial pens cover fifteen acres. All things are to be had-carriages of every description, so light they would almost go alone; a child could draw one if it liked. A small machine, price 1s. 6d., with which the salesman said he would undertake to spoil the best knife in the company; he would rub it edge downwards till it was as round as a ruler. Would a gentleman lend him one? The public did not seem anxious, but a boy lent him one, and when he was asked to feel it he certainly looked glum. Then it was rubbed two or three times, and it certainly became sharp as a razor. Washing machines, printing machines, sewing machines; every application of steam; made of galvanised iron; cooking apparatus which did so much electric telegraph brought on to the ground; shepherd's houses with sixpennyworth of wood, that the fortunate purchaser of one of them became as indifferent to the price of coals as farmers' boys are to the increase or decrease of income tax; portable machines so certain in their execution, that but for the ill-temper of the insurance offices who would, perhaps, refuse to pay damages, you might play at setting your house on fire, and stop it at will. Sutton's seed establishment was an exhibition of itself. These well-settled shows have drawn all trades round them, and remind us, though on a smaller scale, of some of the continental fairs. Vendors of all things seem to find their ac count in coming, and it is hard to encounter a sudden want that will not immediately be remedied for a consideration. The grand stand used at the races was here utilised, and a payment of 6d. enabled visitors to go where the country was seen like a panoroma, and where the view was really charming. The excellent military band was discoursing sweet music; in close neighbourhood there was shelter from the sun; refreshments at moderate price, and a coup d'œil such as is seldom enjoyed. The spot was admirably chosen on what is called "The Common," but which is such scenery as we meet with in the ancient chases, or read of as the glades in which Robin Hood and his foresters caroused. The magnificent timber is worthy of any foreign landscape, affording shade and shelter in all directions, and reminding one of spots where the knight of the ruefuĺ countenance and his Sancho rested from their exploits. All this tract, and it is large, was occupied. Beer shops, toy and cake stalls, hot and cold provisions, dancing-booths, sparringtents-all paraded their attractions. Luxurious swings were improvised on the strong limbs of the huge oaks; and as we looked we could not help asking ourselves whether, in the days of Sir Bevis and his fellow knight, men had not swung from the boughs less to their satisfaction. Pic-nicing seemed in many parts the order of the day, and Watteau-like groups were lying on the grass; but as evening and dusk came on there were men and women collected round fires, who looked more like a work of Salvator Rosa. It was a truly pleasant meeting. The Show was opened by the Corporation of Southampton. Many well-appointed carriages containing or carrying Macebearers, the Mayor, red-robed Aldermen, Town-Councillors in their sober-coloured gowns; these were preceded by police and a military band. Judging from appearances, the appointment as Mace-bearer is conducive to longevity, and none attain to eminence in the Council till they reach a certain age. Dorkings are always, or should be always, numerous at an agricultural meeting. There were here fourteen pens of good birds. The Cochins presented an extraordinary feature, inasmuch as in a class for all colours the first was taken by the Whites. The Game are always good at this Show, and the present was no exception. Polands were good, but not numerous, and we think the Committee will be wise if they reduce the number of classes. The Spanish were well represented in numbers and quality. It is here as elsewhere with Hamburghs, they do not improve. The Light Brahmas formed one of the best classes in the Show, and produced wonderful birds. We cannot say as much for the Dark class; they were neither as numerous nor as good as usual. Game Bantams were very good, and with a class for Any other variety of Bantam, formed a considerable entry. There were many excellent birds; but we must say to owners of Game Bantams, they must show them in their proper class, as they are only disqualified if they are shown as varieties. The next is a rising class at every show— we allude to French fowls. There were three prizes to award, and more might have been worthily bestowed. The next was a large class for Varieties; there were good Malays, Andalusians, and Black Hamburghs. There were some good Aylesbury and Rouen Ducks, and in the Various class was shown a pair of very tame Shovell ers in beautiful condition. Although not very scarce birds, yet those only who have kept them can speak of the difficulty of keeping them in condition. Turkeys and Geese were good, but not numerous. The Pigeons formed a good and most attractive class. Carriers and Fantails were very good. The Trumpeters were good, but not up to the new standard; it was worthy of note, none but black birds were shown. The Homing Pigeons were a new and interesting class. Eleven pens competed, and we shall be curious to learn the result of their flight. The various Pigeons and Rabbits closed this enjoyable and successful Show. Mr. Downes was, as usual, urbane, energetic, and ubiquitous. DORKINGS.-1, E. Hooper, Calne. 2, T. C. Burnell, Micheldever. 8, O. E. Cresswell, Early Wood, Bagshot. hc, G. F. Hodson, North Petherton, Bridgewater; Lieut.-Col. H. B. Lane, Bracknell. c, G. Mears, Thornhill, Bitterne; Miss J. Milward, Newton St. Loe, Bristol. COCHIN.-1, R. S. S. Woodgate, Pembury, Tonbridge Wells. 2, Miss J. Milward. 3, Mrs. J. Simmonds, Arborfield. hc, E. De La Simmonds, Winchester. c, J. Chisman, Rownhams, Southampton. GAME.-Black-breasted and other Reds -1, W. H. Stagg, Netheravon. 2, C. H. Ames, Henley-on-Thames. c, H. E. Martin. Sculthorpe, Fakenham. Any other variety.-1, Capt. C. F. Terry, Walton-on-Thames. 2, P. Warren, Southampton. hc, Miss M. Blackmore, Alresford. POLANDS.-Golden.-1, T. P. Edwards, Lyndhurst. Silver.-1, J. L. Hinton, Warminster. 2, T. P. Edwards. Black with White Crests.-1 and 2, T. P. Edwards. SPANISH.-1, R. S. Samways, Southampton. 2, J. Watts, King's Heath, Birmingham. c, R. S. Samways, Southampton; F. James, Peckham Rye. HAMBURGHS.-Gold-pencilled.-1, 0. E. Cresswell. Silver-pencilled.-1, H. Feast, Swansea. 2, F. W. Arnold, Newport, Isle of Wight. HAMBURGHS.-Gold spangled.-1, Miss C. E. Palmer, Odiham. 2, G. Cull, Ringwood. Silver-spangled. 1, H. Feast, Swansea. 2, T. Chamberlain, Windsor. hc, J. Messer, Keading. BRAHMA POOTRA.-Light.-1 and 2, Mrs. T. Turner, Avon, Ringwood. 8, J. Pares, Postford, Guildford. hc, Rev. N. J. Ridley, Newbury; Mrs. T. Turner; H. M. Maynard. Holmewood, Ryde, Isle of Wight. Dark.-1, J. Chisman, Rownhams, Southampton. 2, Lieut.-Col. H. B. Lane, Bracknell, 3, Horace Lingwood, Creeting, Needham Market. BANTAMS.-Game.-1, R. Donger, jun., Parkstone, Poole. 2. T. W. Anns, Clapham. hc, R. S. Samways, Southampton; O. Nicholson, Portsmouth. Any other variety.-1 and 2, G. F. Hodson, North Petherton, Bridgewater. he, J. H. Feast. DUCKS.-Rouen.-1, J. K. Fowler, Aylesbury. 2, J. Pares. Aylesbury-1, J. K. Fowler. 2, H. D. Hoare, Brownton, Bitterne, Southampton. Any other variety.-1. R. Wilkinson, Guildford (Shovelers). 2, R. F. Soffe, Hams, Eastleigh, Southampton (Muscovys). GEESE.-, J. K. Fowler. 2. A. White, Greywell, Odiham. CARRIERS.-1, H. M. Maynard. 2, E. S. Carew-Gibson, Ryde, Isle of Wight. HOMING.-1, J. D. Blackman, Southampton. 2, J. W. Barker, Reading. 3, C. (Black Dragoons). Basingstoke; C. Palmer. RABBITS. LONGEST EARS.-1 and 2, F. Banks, London. he, C. Palmer. Southampton. Brighton; C. Palmer, Southampton. c, Master F. A. Wallis, Coombehurst, FOREIGN.-1, J. Ellis, Reigate. 2, E. S. Carew-Gibson. he, T. P. Broad, FOR VARIETY.-To include all Points.-1, J. Ellis, Reigate. 2, F. Banks. JUDGE. Mr. John Baily, 113, Mount Street, Grosvenor Square, London. The following is the prize list: 1873. 276 120 75 DORKINGS.-Cock.-1, J. White, Warlaby. 2, Mrs. Arkwright. 8, T. Whiting. he, W. Roe; J. Robinson, Garstang. Hen.-1, R. W. Richardson. 2. W. H. King. 3, O. E Cresswell, Early Wood. hc, W. Roe; J. White; J. Robinson; J. Watts, King's Heath. SPANISH.-Cock.-1, J. Powell, Bradford. 2. J. Leeming, Broughton. 3, R. Newbitt, Epworth. hc, J. Boulton, Bristol; E. Brown, Sheffield; R. Newbitt. Hen-Cup, J. Powell. 2, J. Leeming. 8, R. Smith, jun., Norton. hc, J. Boulton; E. Brown; J. Thresh, Bradford. COCHINS.-Cinnamon or Buff.-Cock.-1. D. & J. Ibetson, Whitby. 2. W. J. Peace, Driffield. 3, H. E. & W. J. Mason, Drighlington. Hen.-1, W. Mitchell. 2, T. F. Ansdell, St. Helen's. 8, H. Tomlinson, Birmingham. hc, J. Watts; G. Speedy. COCHINS-Any other variety.-Cock.-1, W. Whiteley, Clough. 2, A. Bamford, Middleton (Partridge). 3. H L. Saunders, Apperley (White). Hen-1, Rev. R. Story, Wensley. 2, A. Darby (Black). 8, R. S. S. Woodgate, Pembury (White). BRABMA.-Dark or Light.-Cock-Cup and 2, J. F. Ansdell. 3, W. Swann, Bedlington. he, Mrs. Arkwright; W. R. Garner, Dyke Bourn. Hen.-1 and 2, J. F. Ansdell. 3, Dr. Holmes. he, J. T. Smith; W. Swann. GAME.-Black Red.-Cock.-1 and 8, C. Chaloner, Whitwell. 2, W. Tell, Adwalton. Hen.-1, C. Chaloner. 2, J. Mason, Worcester. 3, Sales & Bentley, Crowle. GAME.-Brown Red.-Cock.-1, W. Perrin, Nantwich. 2, C. Chaloner. 5, Gomersal (Pile). 8, J. C. Coupe (Pile). he, Sales & Bentley. HAMBURGHS Gold or Silver-pencilled.-Cock.-1 and 3, J. Robinson. 2, Rev. FRENCH.-Cock.-1, Mrs. B. Frank. 2. Mrs. Cross, Appleby. 2. H. Feast, Swansea. hc, G. W. Hibbert, Godley, Hyde. c, J. H. Fielden, Todmorden. Hen-1, G. W. Hibbert. 2, Mrs. Cross. 3, H. Feast. ANY OTHER VARIETY.-Cock.-1. W. R. Patrick, West Winch (Poland). 2, J. S. Rooth, Chesterfield (Malay). 8, J. Robinson. Hen.-1, W. R. Patrick (Po land). 2, J. Robinson. GAME BANTAMS.-Black Red.-Cock.-1 and 3. W. F. Addie, Preston. 2, F. Steel, Halifax. hc, W. F. Entwisle, Westfield: W. Adams, Beverley; F. Steel; S. Smith, Northowram. Hen.-, E. Newbitt. 2, W. F. Addie. 3, W. F. Entwisle. hc. W. Adams; E. Newbitt; J. & G. Tonge. c, S. Smith. GAME BANTAMS.-Any other variety.-Cock.-1 and 2, F. Steel (Pile and Duckwing). 3, S. Beighton, Farnsfield. he, W. Adams; C. Chaloner: E. New bitt. c. W. F. Entwisle (Pile). Hen.-1, W. F. Entwisle (Pile). 2. W. F. Addie (Duckwing). 8, F. Steel (Duckwing), he, W. Adams; E. Newbitt; F. Steel (Duckwing); S. Beighton. BANTAMS. Any variety not Game.-Cock.-1, J. Waddington, Guiselev. 2, H. B. Smith, Brooklands. 3. Mrs. R. Frew. he, J. Watts; K. H. Ashton, Mottrama. c, Mrs. Cross; J. Earnshaw, Rotherham. Hen.-1, H. B. Smith. 2, J. Waddington. 3, S. Smith. hc, R. Frew; R. H. Ashton. c, G. Simpson (Golten Se bright). DUCKS.-Aylesbury or Rouen.-1. J. Robinson (Aylesbury). 2, J. Rothwell (Aylesbury). Any other variety.-1 and 3, H. B. Smith. 2 and he, W. M. Binns, Pudsey. GRESE.-1, J. B. Hepworth. 2, C. Haycroft, Thorne. Two GIBS.-1, C. Haycroft. 2, J. Staoles, Soutu Duffield: 8 and he, Mrs. J. Furniss, Crowle Wharf. SELLING CLASS.-1, J. Powell, 2, R. W. Richardson. 3, J. Leeming. he, W. Wing, Sharrow Vale (Spanish); J. Johnson, Newark (Buff Cochin); W. Swann (Black Spanish). c, J. Kobinson. PIGEONS. CARRIERS.-Cock.-1 and 8, E. Horner, Harewood. 2, H. Yardley, Birmingham. Hen-1 and 2, E., Horner. POUTERS.-Cock.-1 and 3, E. Horner. 2, R. Ashton, Huntingdon. hc, J. Kil patrick, Whitby; A. Spencer, Drifleld. Hen.-1 and he, E. Horner. 2, L. Watkin. 3, H. Yardley. TUMBLERS.-1, W. Adams. 2, E. Horner. 8, H. Yardley. hc, W. Adams; E. Horner (2). JACOBINS.-1, E. Horner. 2, O. E. Cresswell. 3, J. H. Watkins. he, R. G. Saunders, Leven, Beverley. NUNS.-1 and 2, E. Horner. 3, J. Watts. TRUMPETERS.-1 and 2, E. Horner. 3, C. N. Lythe, Cottingham. TURBITS-1 and 3, C. N. Lythe. 2, J. Watts. hc, E. Horner; J. E. Crofts (2). FANTAILS.-1, J. F. Loversidge, Newark. 2 and he, J. Walker, Newark. 8, L. Horner. BARBS.-1 and 2, E. Horner. 3, J. Kilpatrick, he, H. Yardley; C. G. Cave, Spalding. DRAGOONS-1, T. Chambers, jun., Northampton. 2, Croote & Packham. 3, E. Horner. he, C. N. Lythe. ANTWERPS.-1, E. Horner. 2, J. Crossland. 3, H. Yardley. hc, Mrs. ArkMAGPIES-1, E. Horner. 2, J. Kilpatrick. 3, Miss J. M. Frew. hc, C. N. Lythe; J. E. Crofts. ANY OTHER VARIETY.-1, C. Dennison, Halifax (Foreign Owl). 2, H. Yardley. 3. E. Horner. hc, W. H. Lee, Nantwich (Owl); E. Horner; J. E. Crofts; J. wright. Thresh. SELLING CLASS.-1, C. G. Cave (Barb). 2, T. Chamber, jun. (Carrier). 8, R. W. Richardson (Pouter). he, L. Watkin (White Pouter); W. Nottage, Northampton (Black Barb); J. E. Crofts. RABBITS. LOP-EARED.-All Properties.-Buck.-1, F. Banks, London. 2, W. Boden, West Hartlepool. 3, Shaw & Allison, Sheffield. he, A. H. Easten, Hull. c, J. Quick, London; F. Loveband, London. Doc.-1, A. H. Easten. 2, F. Banks. 3, C. King, London. he, Shaw & Allison. c, W. Boden; A. H. Easten; J. Quick; F. Loveband; S. G. Hudson, Hull. ANGORA-1, W. Whitworth, jun., Longsight. 2, C. Auton, York. 3 and he, G. C. Hatton, Bradford. c. A. H. Easten. HIMALAYAN.-1, S. G. Hudson. 2, G. C. Hutton. 8 and he, S. Ball, Bradford. c, J. Hallas, Huddersfield; G. Bowler; S. M. Peace; F. Sabbage, Northampton. SILVER GREY.-1 and he, S. Ball. 2. A. H. Easten. 3, R. H. Giew, Wakefield. DETCH.-1, W. Whitworth, jun. 2, F. Banks. 3, F. Sabbage. hc, S. Ball. c, F. Banks; S. G. Hudson. e, R. D. Dawson, jun.; J. H. Brand, Barton-on-Humber. ANY OTHER VARIETY-1, W. Whitworth, jun. (Belgian). 2, C King (Belgian). SELLING CLASS.-1, T. Wood, York (Lop-eared). 2. C. King. 3, J. Quick (Lopeared), he, A. H. Easten (Lop-ear). c, J. G. A. Hillyard, York (Lop); S. G. Hudson (Silver Grey); C. Auton, JUDGES.-Poultry: Mr. R. Teebay, Fulwood, Preston. Pigeons: Mr. T. J. Charlton, 23, Blenheim Road, Manningham, Bradford. Rabbits: Mr. C. Rayson, Ivy Lodge, Didsbury, Manchester. BURTON-ON-TRENT POULTRY SHOW. THE second annual Exhibition held in connection with the Flower Show, took place on Wednesday the 18th inst. This being in the midst of the breeding season, the entries were not so numerous as the prize list led the Committee to expect. However, some good birds were exhibited, especially the first-prize birds in the Clear Yellow and Buff Norwich classes. In the Silver Lizard class a bird exhibited by Mr. Bunting, of Derby, was disqualified, being deficient in tail feathers; upon examination it was found that a white feather had been cut out, the stump remaining, and two feathers besides were missing. There was a general opinion expressed that it would be highly desirable to hold the exhibition of Canaries at the August Flower Show, as the alteration in the time would give breeders a better opportunity of sending their birds. DORKINGS.-Coloured or Silver-Grey.-1, J. White, Warlaby, Northallerton. 2, W. Harvey, Sheffield. SPANISH.-1 and he, II. F. Cooper, Walsall. 2, Burch & Boulter, Sheffield. c, J. Cooper, Hanley. COCHINS.-1, T. F. Ansdell, Cowley Mount, St. Helen's 2, H. Tomlinson, Birmingham. he, Rev. R. L. Story, Wensley, Bedale; W. Harvey; W. Jones, Walsall. BRAHMA-POOTRA-Dark.-1, T. F. Ansdell. 2, W. Whiteley, Clough, Sheffield. he, W. H. Crewe, Etwall; J. Watts, Birmingham. Light-1, Miss M. E. Eyton, Wellington, Salop. 2, C. Graves, Boythorpe, Chesterfield. POLISH.-1, W. Harvey. 2, W. Jones. he, H. Feast, Swansea. FRENCH-1. G. W. Hibbert, Godley, Manchester. 2, H. Feast. GAME.-Black or Brown-breasted Reds-1, R. Ashley, Nantwich, Cheshire. 2, E. Bell, Burton-on-Trent. he, E. Clavey, Burton-on-Trent. Any other variety. -1, R. Ashley. 2. J. Hood, Tatenhill, Burton-on-Trent. HAMBURGHS.-Gold or Silver-spangled.-1. J. Robinson, Garstang. Manches ter. 2, W. Driver, Keighley. hc, S. W. Hallam, Whitwick, Leicester. Golden, or Silver-pencilled.-1, W. Driver. 2, W. Speakman, Doddington Park, Nant wich. he, E. Bell. ANY OTHER VARIETY.-1, J. Robinson (Black Hamburghs). 2, C. J. Winney, Stapenhill. BANTAMS.-1, E. Bell. 2, R. Ashley. hc, W. T. Everard. DICKS.-Rouen.-1 and 2, E. Kendrick, Lichfield. White Aylesbury.-1, E. Kendrick. 2, W. H. Crewe. TURKEYS.-1, E. Kendrick. 2, T. Belfield, Burton. PIGEONS. CARRIERS.-1 and 2, H. Yardley. Extra 2, J. Peace, Burton-on-Trent. POUTERS.-1, W. Harvey. 2. H. Yardley. TUMBLERS.-1, J. Peace. 2, W. Harvey. hc, H. Yardley. DRAGOONS.-1, H. Yardley. 2, J. Peace. ANTWERPS.-1 and 2, H. Yardley. ANY OTHER VARIETY.-1, J. Peace. 2, W. Harvey. CAGE BIRDS. NORWICH.-Clear Yellow. -1, Lamplough & Bexson, Derby. 2, C. Pratt, Winshill, Burton-on-Trent, Clear Buff-1, Bunting & Hodgkinson, Derby. 2, E. Hyde, Melbourne. the, T. Bates, Burton-on-Trent. NORWICH-Marked Yellow.-1, Curtis & Mann, Burton-on-Trent. 2, Bunting and Hodgkinson. Marked Buf.-1, Bunting & Hodgkinson. 2, A. Upton, Derby. NORWICH.-Even-marked or Variegated Buff-1, R. Heath, Burton-on-Trent. 2, A. F. Parker, Burton-on-Trent. CRESTED NORWICH.-Yellow or Buff.-1, Lamplough and Bexson. 2, J. Goode, Braunstone Gate, Leicester. GREEN NORWICH.-Yellow or Buff.-1, T. Newbold, Burton. BELGIANS.-Clear or Marked Yellow.-1, T. Cockerton, Ulverston. 2, T. Newbold. Clear or Marked Buf.-1 and 2, R. Heath. LIZARDS.-Golden-spangled.), Bunting & Hodgkinson. 2, W. Jackson, Burton-on-Trent. Silver-spangled.-1, J. Goode. GOLDFINCHES.-1, Bunting and Hodgkinson. 2, T. Cockerton, Ulverston. vhe, Curtis & Mann. PARROT.-1, J. Harris, Lichfield. 2, T. Pegg, Burton. vhc, G. Webster. JUDGES.-Poultry: Mr. W. J. Drewry; Mr. A. O. Worthington; Mr. E. Lowe. Canaries: Messrs. Bemrose & Orme, Derby. BELFAST POULTRY SHOW. THIS Show was held on the 19th and 20th inst., and is in connection with the North East (Ireland) Agricultural Association. A challenge cup value £10 (to be won three times in succession by the same exhibitor), having been twice gained by Mr. Mulligan, that gentleman seemed to have made great efforts to secure the coveted prize, and the result was that it was won with eighty-three points against sixteen of the next on the list. The entries were not so large as at the last Show, which was, no doubt, on account of the challenge cups being given for points; and it is our opinion that if three cups of three guineas each were offered, the result would be much more satisfactory to all concerned, and also in point of entries to the treasury of the Society. The quality of the winners was mostly good, but there were some poor specimens shown. Dorkings were a fair class, the first Dark and the second Silver-Greys; but in chickens of this year only the first-prize pair were noteworthy, and these were Silver-Greys. Both old and young Spanish were very good, the chickens being particularly promising; and the Cochins and Brahmas also of fair quality, but failing in plumage. Only two birds in the Spangled Hamburgh classes were fit for the show pen, these being the Silver cock and hen in the first-prize pen; but in both classes of Pencils the first-prize birds were good and in nice plumage. In Game Brown Reds were first and Duckwings second, and in Bantams Black Reds and Piles won respectively. There were three classes for Polands but only one entry, which were Whitecrested Blacks. Turkeys and Geese were large and good in both classes; and in all the four classes of Ducks there were some excellent birds shown, although there was only one pen of Rouen ducklings. The birds were placed in excellent pens in permanent sheds, the arrangements being good and the fowls well attended to. DORKINGS.-1, W. G. Mulligan, Springfield. 2 and c, G. Martin, Glenview, Castlereach. 3, W. Charley, Seymour Hill, Dunmurry. Chickens.-1, W. G. Mulligan. 2 and 3, G. Martin. Chickens suitable for the Table.-1, G. Martin. SPANISH.-Cup, 1, and 3, W. G. Mulligan. 2, J. Pollock, Dundonald. c, S. W. M'Bride, Lurgan. Chickens.-1 and 2, W. G. Mulligan. 3. J. Pollock. COCHIN-CHINA.-1 and 2, W. G. Mulligan. 8. R. Long, Belfast. hc, F. Robertson, Oldpark. Belfast. c, J. S. Brown, Edenderry, Belfast. BRAHMA POOTRA.-Cup, 1, and 2, W. G. Mulligan. 3, W. Gregg, Willowbank, Be fast. hc, S. W. M Bride: R. Long. SCOTCH-GREYS.-1 and 2. W. G. Mulligan. 3, R. Long. HAMBURGHS-Silver-spangled.-Medal, 1, and 2, W. J. Davison, Belmont, Belfast. Silver pencilled.), W. G Mulligan, Golden-spangled.-1 and 2, W. J. Davison. Golden pencilled.-1, W. G. Mulligan. 2, H. Fleming, Whitehouse, Belfast. 3, C. E. M'Clintock, Glendaragh, Crumlin. GAME.-1, Medal, and 2, W. G. Mulligan. 8, C. E. M'Clintock. POLISH.-White-crested Black.-1, W. G. Mulligan. 3, W. Mullan, TURKEYS.-), G. Martin. 2, J. M'Cormick, Newtonbreda. Willowfield, Belfast. he, Marquis of Downshire, Hillsborough; J. Dickey, Kilroot, Carrickfergus. GEESE-1, W. G. Mulligan. 2, Marquis of Downshire. 3, W. Mullan. DUCKS.-Aylesbury -1 and 3. W. G. Mulligan. 2, W. Charley, Dunmurry. Rouen.-1, 2, and 3, W. G. Mulligan. DUCKLINGS.-Aylesbury.-1 and 2, W. G. Mulligan. Rouen.--Medal, G. Martin. The Judges were Messrs. J. Dixon, Bradford; A. Paterson, Airdrie; and E. Hutton, Leeds. YORKSHIRE GALA BIRD SHOW. IN connection with the horticultural show, reported in another column, there was a bird show, at which Mr. Barnesby, of Derby, and Mr. Clark, of Scarborough, officiating as Judges, made the following awards : NORWICH.-Clear Yellow.-1, Martin & Griffin, Northampton. 2.- Calvert, York. 3, Quinn & Son, York. Clear Buff.-1, J. & G. Mackley, Norwich. 2, Quinn & Son. 3, Martin & Griffin. Even-marked Yellow.-2, - Thompson, York. 3, J. & G. Mackley. Even-marked Buf.-1,- Burton, York. 2,-Gayton, Northampton. 3, Champley, Scarborough. BELGIAN-Clear Yellow or Bug.-1 and 3,- Forth, Pocklington. 2, Hawman, Middlesborough. YORKSHIRE.-Clear Yellow.-1, Johnson, Carlton. 2, Cowl & Simpson. 3, Batchelor, Whitby. Clear Buff.-1.- Belk, Dewsbury. Even-marked Yellor or Buff −1 and 2, Belk. 3, Mackley. ANY BREED-Clear Crested Yellow or Buff.-1,- Belk. 2, T. Tomes, Northampton. 3, Mackley. NORWICH-Created, Yellow or Buff, with Green, Grey or Grizzled Crest -1, - Arnold, Winchester. 2.-Garbutt, Great Broughton. 3, Barwell, Northampton. Clear Crested, Even-marked Yellow, or Buff Crested.-1, - Arnold. 2, Mackley. 3, T. Tomes. CINNAMON -Jonque.-1.- Parwell. 2, G. Stevens, Middlesborough. 8, G. Brown, Northampton. Buff-1, K. Simpson. 2 and 3, G. Brown. LIZARD-Golden spangled.-1, J. Stephens. 2, Barwell. 3, Rev. T. Ward, Hythe Silver-spangled-1,- Bell. 2, Calvert. 3, Mackley. GOLDFINCH MULE-Even-marked Yellow or Buf.-1,- Hawman. 2. Burton. 3, Tenniswood, North Acklam. Dark.-1 and 2, G. Cox, Northampton. 3,- Bell. ANY VARIETY.-1, Bell. 2, Cowl & Simpson. 8, Garbutt. COLLECTION OF BRITISH OR FOREIGN BIRDS.-1 and 2, - Calvert. 3,- Lister, Malton. 2, PARROT.-1, Wilkinson, York. Calvert. 3, Barnett. Special 3, Hotham, York; Miss Inglis, York. GOLDFINCH.-Moulted.-1, Mrs. Jones, York. 2, Stephens; 8, Harland. BULLFINCH-1,- Harland. 2, T. Tomes. 3, Arnold. LINNET.-Moulted,-1,- Stephens. 2,- Lister. 3, Forth. YOUNG BIRDS. NORWICH-Dark Crested Yellow or Buff.-1,- Triffit, York. 2, Miss Burton. from 108. to 20s. The most popular bees are the Italians, whether pure or hybrid, which cost more. It is, undoubtedly, a profitable speculation to keep bees if you manage them properly. They will pay more than 100 per cent.. taking the average of years. Get from our office" Bee-keeping for the Many," to be had for five stamps. There you will find all particulars about hives. Now is a very good time to establish an apiary. Write to the Rev. P. V. M. Filleul, Biddisham Rectory, Weston-super-Mare. WOODBURY HIVES (C. M.).-Write to any of the hive-makers who advertise in our columns. DATE. METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS, 9 A.M. Lat. 51° 32′ 40′′ N.; Long. 0° 8′ 0′′ W.; Altitude 111 feet. 1873. CONSUMPTION OF EGGS.-We wonder, and reasonably wonder, at the enormous and annually increasing amount of eggs imported into England; but wherever the population goes on increasing far beyond the local power to supply food to that population, thither food of every kind will be attracted. Thus we read in an American paper that a Bowmanville egg-dealer has this season shipped some 50,000 dozen of eggs to New York. But this inevitable result of demand and supply does not excuse our agricultural labouring population for not universally attending to poultry culture. Anyone who traverses the bye-roads and lanes of Sussex, and sees how they are fringed with hen-coops belonging to the cottagers, learns a beneficial lesson, and would Th. 19 impress it as we do upon all our cottage friends. June. We. 18 Hygrome ter. Shade Tem Fri. 20 Sat. 21 39.249 66.3 62.0 Sun.23 58.4 N.W. 71.2 516 115.8 48.7 0.018 DOUBLE-CHICKED EGG.-Respecting the occurrence of doublechicked eggs, I may state that a few years ago I had a Turkey's Means egg, in which two chicks grew and developed up to the point of hatching, but did not hatch. They were quite distinct from one another.-N. B. C., Surgeon. OUR LETTER BOX. BOOKS (A. B. C.).-Payne's" Bee-keeping." You can have it free by post from our office for five postage stamps if sent with your address. REMARKS. 18th.-Rain in the morning; fine in the middle of the day; rain in the evening, but fine night. 19th.-Fine morning; rain at noon, and showery all the after part of the day. 20th.-Dull morning; fine afternoon and evening. 21st.-A most beautiful day throughout, the finest as well as the longest we 22nd.-Fine and warm in morning and till between 7 and 8 P.M., when it DORKING PULLETS DROOPING (E. B.).-Your Dorkings show weakness, and TESTING INCUBATING EGGS (M. R. S.).-We have never said that an egg that sank should be destroyed. We have said that an egg that showed no sign of life when it felt the influence of warm water, was always viewed with suspicion by us, and generally condemned. We are seldom wrong in our judgment. The egg that simply floats is generally rotten. Eggs will not display their full vitality in warm water till they are within three days of hatching. When you found that every egg sank and on breaking one found it to contain a live chicken, you should have broken no more, but have replaced them under the hen. In eggs that have never been sat upon, the good eggs go to the bottom, and lie then quietly on one side. Those sat upon, although they sink to the bottom, stand-up on end; those that have been developed and have perished became full of gas and float. We speak from many years' experience. We have allowed that which we describe, and do so still with unvarying success. COMBS CROOKED IN GERMAN BAR HIVE (C. L. W.).-The bees having worked their combs across the frames instead of within each frame, would render the hive useless for the purposes for which moveable frames are intended. Your only plan is to open the sides or ends of the box, and cut out the combs in the best way you can; prune them if too long, straighten them if necessary, and fit them into the frames, securing them temporarily by string, wire, zinc clips, or thin slips of wood tacked to the sides of the frame. Place the frames so filled in position, return the bees, and leave them for one or two days; then take out each frame, remove the temporary supports for the comb, and paro away any projecting portions. In future attach pieces of worker-comb to the upper bars, or run a ridge of melted wax along the centre of their lower sides. The moment you see a comb going wrong remove and rectify it. The German frame-hives are very inferior to the Langstroth, or to the English modification of that principle. DRONES SLAUGHTERED (B. S. H.-Your bees seem to be thriving fairly enough, but why the one stock killed its drones we cannot tell without more precise information. Bees will often get rid of the drones after cold or wet weather of some duration, because they are wise enough to foresee the possibility of starvation if they keep on a set of useless and hungry fellows about the hive. You need not be alarmed about that. Perhaps by the time you read this all will be changed, and your bees will be collecting honey fast enough. It is a late year, so that we think it likely honey will be harvested chiefly in July, as the white clover is only beginning to bloom. But all depends upon weather. We should advise you not to allow yourself to be discouraged. If swarms come, place them where the parent hive stood, and so diminish your chances of too many swarms; this will increase your prospect of honey. Give plenty of room in supers. As soon as one begins to fill, slip another between the first super and the parent hive. You must not expect to make your fortune with bees until you have won your experience like everybody else. Write again if you have any further difficulty. We shall be glad to help you to success. ARTIFICIAL SWARMS (A New Subscriber).—You do not say how you treated your "forced" swarms. Did you put them on separate stands, or in place of the old stocks? Anyhow, we cannot imagine why there was no piping of the young queens. If you put the swarms on new stands they ought to have swarmed again-that is to say, supposing the stocks to have been fairly strong and the weather suitable. We have often forced swarms, aud never recollect an absence of piping. You could force a second swarm from each of them if. as you say, they are very strong and working well; but time is short now, and you will probably have to feed them through the autumn and spring. We have no experience of "scraped wax" as a help to bees in comb-making. PURCHASING BEES (L. M. H.).-Swarms of common bees will cost now |