rposes, detect unsoundness, determine age,
etc.

The classroom work has been reenforced by practical talks and
illustrations at the barns and in the field.

Thirty-five boys have had employment in the department this year. Six of
these have worked by the month to accumulate a credit with which to enter
the day school next year, meanwhile attending our night school. The others
work after school hours and on Saturdays, and are paid by the hour at
varying rates.

The work on the farm has been largely the production of those crops needed
for consumption in the institution, the support of animals for work, beef,
milk, pork, etc.

The general improvement of the land and the increase in the value of the
property have been kept constantly in view. Our fields are becoming more
fertile, and better crops are being raised every year.

An orchard of several hundred trees, consisting of pears, plums, peaches,
and cherries, has been set out. Other varieties have been added, also
quinces, mulberries, figs, and grapes. This year one each of the Japanese
walnut, giant chestnut, and paper shell pecan are being started; also half
a dozen varieties of the raspberry, some currants, rhubarb and garden
plants, with a view to propagate those that prove valuable. Twenty of the
standard varieties of strawberries have been grown. Grasses and forage
plants have also received their share of attention. One-half acre is being
devoted to a trial of three Japanese millets in comparison with our German
or golden millet. Several varieties of corn and sorghum have been grown
and their characteristics carefully noted.

Inquiries are often received from persons in this and other States
regarding certain crops and methods of stock feeding. A creditable
beginning has been made in rearing live stock, and it is our purpose to
extend this branch of the work. To introduce some of the improved breeds
best adapted to this section early occupied our attention, and we have met
with encouragement beyond our expectation. Hundreds of pigs of good
breeding have been sold all through the State to form the nucleus of
better herds. Our herd of cattle is headed by a thoroughbred Jersey and
contains several registered and many high-grade animals. It is increasing
in quality and value each year.

Besides the work already mentioned, an annual farmers' convention is held
at the college, while meetings in some of the beats of the county have
been held during the year. Much