THE HUTT AGRICULTURAL SHOW.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXII, Issue 5005, 9 April 1877, Page 7

THE HUTT AGRICULTURAL SHOW.

There can be no two opinions as to whether the inaugural show of the Hutt Agricultural and Horticultural Association was a great success. Fine weather, numerous exhibits, and a large attendance of the public are essential to success, and all these conditions lent their aid on Wednesday. Perhaps some of the arrangements might have been more complete, and there might with advantage have been a better distribution of official duties ; but the exhibition was a triumph for those who have worked heart and soul for the past two oi three months; and as experience teaches wo may confidently anticipate for the: next show even a treater success than that of Wednesday. So far as exhibits went they were of necessity, from the short space of time in which the whole affair was arranged, local, but the attendance was not so ; and we have reason to believe that the gate receipts were so large that the association will be in a healthy financial position when accounts are squared up. The assistance given by the Wellington public was commendable. Thanks to the liberal concessions made by the Railway Department—whose traffic arrangements during the day were admirable —a great number travelled by rail from the city and intermediate stations. Commencing with the horses, the first division of stock on the catalogue, it may be stated that the competition in this line was keener perhaps than in any other. The stallions and the mares were of failquality, although there might have been more in the first class, Dr. Wilford being the only exhibitor of a thorough-bred stallion. As usual the rules forbade the judges awarding prizes except where there was special merit, and in the case of this exhibit they awarded a prize for special merit. The special prize offered by Mr. 33. W. Mills f »r the best pair of plough horses produced five competitors, several being very handsome teams. The prize fell to Mr. Mabey, and Mr. Hunter carried off second honors, the general appearance of the horses being greatly added to by the handsome and elaborate set of Scotch harness furnished by Mr. McDonald, of Lambton-quay, in which they appeared. In the pony stallion and pony classes, prizes were awarded respectively to Messrs. J. Back and G. Hunter; for although there was no competition the judges considered these gentlemen’sexhibits were worthy of special re oguition. The hack prize brought out ten, and for the side-saddle presented by Mr. R. J. Duncan about a score faced the judges. There were a number of extra exhibits, but Mr. Fenton was the exhibitor who secured the prize. The sheep competition may be described as almost a walk-over for Mr. Hunter in all classes, and while it is to be he had no strong opponent to break lances with him, still everyone admitted that his exhibits fairly deserved the awards made, and pictured the beggarly array of empty peus there would have been had he not put in an appearance. In about twenty classes he was tne only exhibitor. Messrs. A. Braitbwaite and J. C. Dick showed some fine sheep, and carried off several prizes. In cattle again there was a monopoly, occasioned doubtless, as one exhibitor subsequently remarked at the luncheon, by a distinction between pure-bred and cattle of any breed—a distinction not made in other provinces where large shows are held. We believe there are many beasts in the neighborhood of the Hutt which, though not pure-bred, still could beat if judged not so much by pedigree as by the points of quality they display, some of the exhibits shown by Messrs. Riddiford and Hunter yesterday. However, the matter is sure to be seen to next year. In one case it was thought by some persons that the judges had made a slight mistake, viz., in giving Mr. Riddiford a prize for a two-year-old bull calf, while they passed over the sire. This latter animal it seems had been at work for the season, and his condition was low, which very wrongly influenced the decision of the judges. Of the quality of the stock exhibited in the cattle pens generally little need be said, as most of the animals are tolerably well known. We might mention Messrs. Pollock and Young’s large bullock which has carried off several prizes at previous exhibitions in the Wairarapa. He is a magnificent beast, and if taken to the shambles just now would doubtless turn out a carcass of upwards of lOOOlbs. Messrs. Barber also exhibited a pen of very fine beef, for which they received a prize. The pigs were really superb, quite superior to anything exhibited in the province lately. The only exhibits in the poultry department worthy of notice were the geese, the dorkings, and bantams. The exhibit of implements was miserable in point of numbers, and the quality was not very high-class. This we hope to see improved upon next year. There can be no doubt that the display of implements in a showyard is the best guide to the state of farming in a district. Imperfect and ancient implements denote that the system of agriculture is low, and therefore unprofitable. We trust the next, show will prove the falsity of the inference naturally to be drawn from the poor competition in Implements this year. In the schoolhouse was held the horticultural show. The exhibits were numerous and good, but we have not space to particularise. Butter, clean, fresh, and of excellent flavor, was shown. The first prize in one of the fresh butter classes was at the outset awarded to Mr. South, but as it subsequently transpired he did not own a cow, his exhibit was disqualified. Subjoined is the prize list :

HORSES. THOROUOH BRED. Class I—Stallion, over 4 years.—Kakapo, by Diomedes, dam Toi Toi; exhibited by J. G. E. Wilford, Hutt.

DRAUGHT. Class 3-Stallion, over 4 years.—Young Lofty—bred by W. Boag, Canterbury ; owne-, A Taylor. Wailarapa, first prize. Emperor—G. Hunter. Wellington, second prize. Young Prince Royal, by The Thane of Clyde, dam Princess Royal: bred by D, Warnock, Otago: owner, T. Bould, Porirua, highly commended. Class 7—Marc, with foal, or foal at foot,—S. S. Mason, Waiwetu, first prize. G. Hunter, Wellington, second prize. R. Parker, Taita, highly commended. - , Class B—Filly, foaled since July 1, 1873—R. Parker, Taita, first prize. Class 14—Special Prize, by E. W. Mills, Esq., of a Plough, for best pair of Plough Horses.—James Mabey, Taita, first prize. Breeder—Hon. M. Holmes; owner, G. Hunter, Wellington, second prize. G. Hunter, Wellington, highly commended. Class 16—Light Draught Mare or Gelding,—Bonny •‘Lmder, J. Morris, Tohnsonvllle, first prize. Jessie—owner W. Brown, Waiwetn, second prize. Breeder and owner, W. B. Buick, Hutt. highly commended. Class 18— Boy’s Pony, under 13 hands.—G. Hunter, Wellington, first prize. . Class 20—Hack Mare or Gelding.—R. Gillies, v. airarapa, first prize. Breeder—J, Brown : owner, G. Burnett, Taita, second prize. Castaway—owner, A. McKenzie, Wairarapa. highly commended. ( Class 21—Ladles’ Hack—special prize. Ladies' Saddle (presented by 11. J. Duncan, Esq.). —Grey Beard, breeder, J. Walker, Wairarapa; owner, A. McKenzie, Wairarapa, first prize. 11. Bruce, second prize. Robinson, highly commended. Class 22 —Extra Exhibit.—Roadster colt, foaled since July 1, 1875, D. Knight, Waiwetu. first prize. Class 24 —Carriage Horse (extra exhibit). —Breeder, P. Hume, Wairarapa ; owner, J. Fenton, Wellington, first prize. SHEEP (PURE BRED). LEICESTER*. Class 7 —One Ram, 4-tooth or over.—Ram, bred by J. Borton ; owner, G. Hunter, W ellington ; shorn, November, 1876, first prize. 1 ram, bred by J. Borten ; owner, G. Hunter, Wellington ; shorn, November, 1876, second prize. Class B—2 Rams, 2-tootb.—2 rams, breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington ; shorn, November, 1876, first prize. 2 rams, breeder and owner, O. Hunter, Wellington ; shorn, November, 1876, second prize. „ , Class 9—3 Ewes, 4 tooth or over.—3 ewes, breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington ; shorn, November. 1876. first prize. 3 ewes, breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington ; shorn, November, 1876, second prize. Class 10—3 Ewes, 2-tooth.—3 ewes, breeder and owner, O. Hunter, Wellington; shorn, November, 1870, first prize. 3 ewes, breeder and owner, G, Hunter, Wellington ; shorn. November. 1876, second prize. Class 11—1 Ewe, 4-tooth or over.—l ewe, breeder and owner, O, Hunter, AVellington; shorn, November, 1870, first prize. 1 ewe, breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington; shorn, November, 1876, second prize. Class 12 —1 'Ewe, 2-tooth,—l ewe, breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington; shorn, November, 1876, first prize. 1 owe. breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington; shorn, November. 1870, second prize. Extra—l ram, 2-tooth, breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington ; unshorn, special jirize. LINCOLNS. Class 13—1 Earn, 4-tooth or over.—l ram, breeder, J. K. Kirkham ; owner, G. Hunter, Wellington; shorn, November, 1870, first prize. 1 ram, breeder .7. R. Kirkham ; owner, G. Hunter, Wellington ; shorn, November, 1870, second prize. Class 14—2 Rams, 2-tootb.—2 rams, breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington; shorn, November, 1870, first prize. Class 15- -3 Ewes, 4-tooth or over.—3 ewes, breeder

and owner. G. .Uiut-i. V.V.i nzt u: sh.. ». November, I|ir--t prise. .'I li'.ivz. ■■iv Ivr, W. 11. (imported); owner. (1. I]n.■ ro:-, Wellington ; shorn, November, 1876, second prize. Class IC—d Ewes, 2-tooth.—3 ewes, breeder and owner, G. Rimer, Wellington; shorn, November, IS7C, litslprize 3ewe,, breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington; shorn, November, 1876, second prize. Class 17—1 Ewe, 4-tnntli or over.—l ewe, breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington; shorn, November, IS7C, first prize. 1 ewe, breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington ; shorn, November, IS7O, second prize. Class IS—l Ewe, 2-tootli.—l ewe, breeder anilowncr, 0. Hunter, Wellington ; shorn, November, 1876, first prize. (Extra) I ram, 2 tenth breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington; nn-.li >rn, special prize. ItOMNKV .MAKSU. Class IB—l Ham, 4-t oth or over.—l ram, owner, A. Braithwa te, Waiwetn : shorn, December 9, IS7o, first prize. 1 ram (imported) owner, A. Brai'llwaite, Waiwete: shorn, December 9, 187(1, second prize. I'lass 20—2 Rams, 2-tooth.—2 rams, breeder and owner, d. C. Dick, Waimnoniata : shorn, December. 187(1, highly commended. . COTSWOLDS. Class 20—2 Rams, 2-toot .—2 rams, breeder and owner, G, Hunter, Wel'.ington ; shorn, November, 187(1, highly commended. Class -’7—3 Ewes. 4-tooth or over.—3 ewes, breeder and owner. G. Hunter, Wellington; shorn November. 187(1 first prize. 3 ewes, breeder ami owner, G, Hunter, Wellington; shorn. November, 187(1, second I>r <dass 28—3 Ewes, 2 tooth.—3 ewes, breeder and owner. G, Hunter. Wellington; shorn, November, 18711 first prize. 3 ewes, breeder and owner, G Hunter, Wellington : shorn, November. 187(1, second and owner, G. Hunter. Wellington; shorn, November. 187(1, first prize. 1 ewe, breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington: shorn, November, 187(1, second prize. Class 30—1 Ewe, 2-tootli.—l ewe, breeder and owner, G. Hunter. Wellington: shorn. November, 1876 first prize (Extra) 1 ram. 2-tooth, breeder and owner. G. Hunter, Wellington ; (hogget) unshorn, special prize. SOUTILDOWKS— EXTRA EXHIBITS, 1 Kam, 4-tooth or ov»r.— Breeder, Lord Sondes; owner. G. Hunter, Wellington ; shorn, November, 187(1, highly commended 1 ram, 4-iooth or over, breeder. Lord Sondespowner. G. Hunter, Wellington; shorn, November, 1876, highly commended. 1 ram, 4-tooth or over, breeder, Lord Sondes; owner, G. Hunter, Wellington ; shorn, November, 187(1, highly commended. CKO.SS-BREDS (OF ANY DESCRIPTION). Class 31—1 Kam, 4-tooth or over,—l ram. breeder and owner. D. Knight. Waiwetn; shorn November 27, 187(1, first prize. 1 ram, breeder and owner, D. Knight, Waiwetn ; shorn November 27, 187(1, second prize. Class 32—2 Rams, 2-tooth.—2 rams, breeder and owner, A. Eraithwaite, Hutt; shorn December 9, 18711, first prize. 2 rams, breeder and owner, T. P. Allen, Waiwetn : shorn November 16, 1876, second prize. Class 33—5 Kam Lambs.—s ram lambs, breeder and owner, A. Braitbwaite, Waiwetn : shorn December 9, 1876, first prize. 5 ram lambs, breeder and owner. 8. S. Mason, Waiwetn, second prize. Class 34—3 Ewes, 4-tooth, or over.—3 ewes, breeder and owner, A. Braitbwaite, Waiwetn ; shorn Decern ber 9, 1576, highly commended. Class 35—3 Ewes, 2-tooth.—3 ewes, breeder and owner, A. Braitbwaite, Waiwetn; shorn December 9, 1876, highly commended. Class 36—1 Ewe, 4-tooth or over.—l ewe, breeders and owners. J. and D. Sinclair, Wa nuiomata ; shorn January 12, 1877. first prize. 1 ewe. breeder and owner, A. Braitbwaite, Waiwetn ; shorn Deoemb .r 9, 1876. second prize. Class 37—1 Ewe, 2-tooth.—l Ewe, breeder and owner, A. Braitbwaite; shorn December 9, 1876, highly commended. Class 38—5 Ewe Lambs.—s ewe lambs, breeder and owner, A. Braitbwaite, Waiwetn ; shorn December 9, 1876, special prize. CATTLE. PUKE BRED. . Class I—Bull of any age.—Rather Christmas : Sire, Royal Butterfly; dam. Jessamine ; breeder, Hon. M. Holmes ; owner, G, Hunter, Wellington ; born October 7, 1870, first prize. „t, , J Class 4—Bull calved since July 1,1875. —Bull calved since July 1, 1875 : owner. E. J. Riddiford, Hutt (imported), first prize. Class s—Bull calved since July 1, 1876.—King O'May ; Sire, Father Christmas ; dam, second Queen (YMay ; breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington ; born July 30, 1876, first prize. Class 6—i ow of any age.—Second Queen O May : Sire. Duke: dam. Queen O'May : breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington ; born October 25, 1864, first prize. First Princess o’May : Sire, Crippledick; dam, Second Queen O'May : breeder and owner. G. Hunter, Wellington; born October 8, 1871, second prize. Shadow: Sire, Eclipse : dam. Dairy Maid ; owner, G. Hunter, Wellington : born July, 1872, highly commended. . Class 9—Heifer calved since July I, 1375. —Heifer : Sire, Father Christmas ; dam, Shadow : breeder and owner. G. Hunter, Wellington; born August 25, 1876, first prize. Heifer, breeder and owner, E. J. Riddiford, Hutt, second prize. Class 10—Heifer calved since July 1, 1876. —Heifer : Sire, Father Christmas ; dam, Shadow ; breeder and owner, G. Hunter, Wellington; born July 27, 1876, first prize. CATTLE OF ANY BREED. Extra Stock—l Eat Heifer—Pollock and Young, Wellington, first prize. Class 2—Bull of any age.—Breeder, \V. Edwards : owner, P. A. Collings, Waiwetn, first prize. P. Bruce, Taita, second prize. Class 14—Bull calved since July I, 1875.—Sultanbreeder, Threlkeld, Canterbury; owner. T. W. Caverhill. Hutt, first prize. Class 15—Cow of any age.—P. Laing, Wellington, first prize. P. Laing. ‘Wellington, second prize. Class 19—Heifer calved since July 1, 1875.—8. J. Riddiford, Hutt, first prize. E. J. Riddiford, Hutt. second prize. , T , „ _ . Class 20- Pen of 3 Fat Cattle.—J. and H. Barber, Wellington, first prize. , ~ _ , Class 21—One Fat Bullock.—J. and H. Barber, Wellington, first prize. PIGS. Class I—Berkshire Boar.—P. Laing, Hutt,-first prize. Sampson—breeder, J. G. Bluett, Canterbury-; owner, J. H. Corbett. Taita, second prize. Class 2—Berkshire Sow. —J. Gear, Wellington, first prize. Breeder—J. G. Bluett, Canterbury; owner, J. G. F. Wilford, Hutt, second prize. Class 3 —Boar of any breed, over 12 months old. — Young Prince (imported), J. H. Corbett, Taita, first prize. Breeder,.!. G. F. Wilford, Hutt; owner, N. Valentine, Hutt. second prize. Class 4- Sow of any breed, over 12 months old.— Breeder, G. Hunter, Wellington ; owner, J. G. F. Wilford, Hutt ; bom, July 9,1875, first prize. A. Rush, second prize. Class s—Boar of any breed, under 12 months.—J. Gear. Wellington, first prize. Breeder. G. Hunter, Wellington ; owner, R. T Mellow, Taita ; born, September 4, 1876, second prize. Class o—Sow of any breed, under 12 months.—J. Gear, Wellington, first prize J. H. Corbett, Taita, second prize. J. G. F. Wilford, Hutt, highly commended _ „ , Class S—Pork Pig, P. Laing, Hutt, first prize. Class o—Litter0 —Litter of Pigs, not less than G and not more than 9 months old, P. Laing, Hutt, first prize ; J. G. F. Wilford, Hutt. second prize. POULTRY. Pair of Geese : Mrs. Cudbey, Hutt, prize. Pair of Ducks: J. Silver, Hutt. prize. Pair of Dorking Fowls: G. Hunter, Wellington, first and second prize, _ . Pair of Bantams: D. Asher, Wellington, first prize; J Dransfleld, Wellington, second prize. Pair of Game Fowls : S. S. Mason, Waiwetn, prize. Three Nobby Ducks ; Mrs. Cudbey, second prize. Pair of Brahma Fowls : B. Rayner, Taita, prize. IMPLEMENTS. Extra—Buggy : Made by Messrs Howland and Co., Christchurch, and exhibited by J. Fenton, Wellington, Pl Extra—Scarifier: Made and exhibited by G. Mcllvride, Hutt, prize. MISCELLANEOUS. Two Trusses Hay—S. S. Mason, Waiwetn, first prize ; W. Brown. Waiwetu, second price. Sheep Dog—S. S. Mason, Waiwetn, first prize ;D. Pringle, Hutt, second prize. Clumber Spaniel Dog—Stevenson and Stuart, Wellington, first prize. , , _ .. Ale in Bulk—Marshall and Copeland, Dunedin brewers, exhibited by Stevenson and Stuart. Wellington, first prize ; Mace and Arkell, brewers, Wellington, second prize. Ginger Wine—Made and exhibited by Eddie and Jack, Wellington, highly commended. Australian Wine. 12 Varieties—lmported and exhibited by Stevenson and Stuart, Wellington, first Pr ßest6lbsßutterin Lump—O. W. Brown, first prize. Best Gibs Butler in Prints—C. W. Brown, first prize. HORTICULTURAL. Collection of Vegetables on tray—P. Laing, first prize ; J. H. Corbett, second prize. Collection of Salads on tray—Laing, first prize ; Corbett, second prize. . Kidney Beans -Laing, first prize ; Corbett, second Pr Three Red Cabbages- Laing, first prize; T. Mason, second prize. Capsicum—Laing, first prize. Cabbages—J. Austis, iir-i prize , j’eas—O. Mann, first prize ; Corbett, second prize. Vegetable Marrows—Anslis, first prize. Pumpkins—J. Austis, first prize. Rhubarb-Prier, first prize. Tomatoes— Laing, first prize; Mann, second prize. Onions—Corbett, first prize ; Mann, second prize. Cauliflowers—K. King, first prize. Red Beet (6)—Mann, first prize Round Potatoes—T. Mason, first prize : Corbett, second prize. Celery—Corbett, first prize, . Lettuces— Laing, first prize ; Corbett, special prize. Parsnips —Mason, first prize ; Mann, second prize. Turnips (6)—Mann, first prize; Corbett, second Prize. , ~ „ . Carrots (9)—Corbett, first prize. Kidney Beans-Mann first prize. Kidney Potatoes (72)—Corbett, second prize. Collection of Potatoes cm tray—Mann, first prize ; Corbett, 2nd prize. Red Cabbages (amateurs only)—Beethiim, first Pr . Seed Pumpkins—Mann, first prize. Red Beet (amateurs)—Russell, first prize ; Ransom, Carrots (amateurs)—Russell, first prize. Kumaras— Mawhini, special prize, Rhubarb (amateurs)—McKenzie, first prize ; Russell, second prize. . Pound Potatoes (amateurs)—Russell, first prize ; A. Eraithwaite, second prize. . Kidney Potatoes (amateurs)—Russell, first prize. Vegetable Marrows (amateurs)—Russell, first prize; Schrimshaw. second prize. parsnips (amateurs)—Russell, first prize; valentine, second prize. Onions (amateurs)—C. A. Collings, first prize ; Russell, second prize. Turnips (amateurs)—Russell, second prize. Kidney Beans (amateurs)—Russell, first prize ; C. W, Brown, second prize. Cucumbers (amateurs)—Ransom, first prize; Russell, second prize.

I Cabbages (amateurs;—Russell, first prize ;T. Mills, j second prize. Collection of Vegetables (amateur)—Waterman, so- ' cond prize. . I Tomatoes (amateur)—Ransom, first prize ;T. -Miller, I second prize. \ Pears {amateur)—Mrs. Johnson, first prize, j Kitchen Apples—Mason, first prize; Austis, second prize. . Dessert A pples—Laing, first prize ; Austis, second prize. Peaches—Corbett, first prize : Austis, second prize, (•ranges—Mason, first prize. Lemons—Mason, first prize, Black Grapes—Menders, first prize. Walnuts—. Mann, first prize; Corbett, second prize. Best Collection of Fruit on tray Laing, first prize: Mason, second prize. Black Currants (special prize)—Prier. Collection of Cut Flowers—Mason, first prize ; Corbett, second prize. Asters—Mann, first prize. Six Dahlias (varieties)—Mason, first prize; Holland, second.

Twelve Dahlias— Mason, first prize. Collection of Native plants In any stage of flower or fruit—C Duncan, jun. Roses—Mason, first prize. Palms (special prize)—Mantlers. Collection or Conifcra and Dracojna (special prize) —F. Cooyer.

The following awards were given in addition to, and some are in correction of those above—

61b. Butter in prints—Henry Southee, special prize. 61b, Butter in lumps—Reuben King, 2nd prize. 0 Asters—Thomas Mason, 2nd prize. 6 Bulba—Thomas Mason, 2nd prize. 6 Dahlias—C. ilollard (amateur). 2nd prize. 12 Kitchen Apples—John Anstls, 2nd prize. 12 Dessert Apples—Thomas Mason, 2nd prize. 2 Cucumbers—J H. Corbett. Ist prize. 2 Cucumbers—G. Mann, 2ml prize. 12 Benches—John Anstis, 2nd prize. 26 N uts—Thomas Mason, Ist prize. 9 Carrots—P. Laing, 2nd prize. Onions—A. Rush, highly commended. Kidney Potatoes—G. Mann, Ist prize. Pumpkins (amateur) —J. H. Braun, 2nd prize. Collection of Potatoes on tray—T. Mason, Ist prize. Orange Mangold (amateur)—E. Russell, Ist prize. Red Mangold (amateur)—C. W. Brown. Ist prize. Kidney Potatoes (amateur)—W F. Burgess, 2nd prize. Pumpkins—John Anstis, 2nd prize. Cauliflowers (amateur)— N. Valentine, 2nd prize. Cabbages—J. Anstis, Ist prize; J. H. Corbett, 2nd prize. Vegetable Marrows—J. Anstis. Ist prize; O. Mann, 2nd prize; G. Scrimshaw, special prize. Pumpkins—J. Anstis, 2nd prize. Cauliflowers—P. Laing, Ist prize ;R. King, 2nd prize. Rhubarb—Thomas Mason, 2nd prize. Dessert Melon—J. H. Corbett, Ist prize. Water Melon—G. Mann. 2nd prize. Red Beet- Thomas Mason, Ist prize. Dessert Apples (Amateur)—J. Hall, Ist prize; Mrs. Copland, 2nd prize. Peaches (Amateur)—Win. Beetham, Ist prize; G. Wood, 2nd prize. Roses (Amateur)—Mrs. Stilling, 2nd prize. Walnuts (Ainateur) —T. Mills, Ist prize; Mrs. Stil ling, 2nd prize. Kitchen Apples (Amateur)—Win. Beetham, Ist prize; \V. F. Burgess. 2nd prize, Kidnev Beans—P. Laing, 2nd prize. Tomatoes (Amateur)-T. Mills, 2nd prize. Carrots (Amateur)—N. Valentine, Ist prize; W. Russell, 2nd prize. Kidney Beans (Amateur)—Mrs. Stilling, Ist prize. Pumpkins (Amateur)—John Hall, Ist prize. Hop Plant (Amateur)—Airs. Stilling, honorable mention. . , Sun Flower (Amateur)—Mrs. Stilling, superior culture. Miize (Amateur)—Mrs. Stilling, highly recommended. THE LUNCHEON. The luncheon iucidertalto such gatherings took place in a spacious marquee, Mr. Valentine having laid an excellent spread. The attendance was large, but through an oversight, which the committee very much regretted, several gentlemen occupying high official positions, who were on the ground, were not invited. The President of the Society, the Hon. Mr. Fitzherbert, presided, having on hia right his Kxcelleucy the Governor, Messrs. P. _A. Buckley and Worth respectively occupying the vice chairs. Several of the leading merchants of Wellington and several officers of H.M.S. Sappho were also present. After the more substantial portion of the proceedings had been got through, the toasts of her Majesty the Queen and the Prince and Princess of Wales were given and duly honored.

The Chairman then rose and said ; I have oiven, and you have responded to, the toasts of loyalty in the abstract. I now call upon you to drink a toast of loyalty in the concrete. We have drunk the health of her Majesty the Queen, and that of his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. I now give you “ The health of her Majesty’s representative, his Excellency the Governor;” and a very worthy representative of her Majesty we have in New Zealand. I need not, it appears to me, say more in support of that than to refer to the unostentatious and urbane manner in which he mixes with the people in their various festivities and gatherings. He comes here unostentatiously, moves about— uotfuuobseivantly though, for I believe he knows as much about the points of a horse or any other animal as those who profess to be judges and boast about it. We have every reason to be thankful to him for the encouragement he gives us, and I am sure you will heartily respond to the toast of loyalty in the concrete—his Excellency the Governor. (Cheers). His Excellency the Governor : Mr. Fitzherbert and gentlemen,—l thank you for the kiud manner in which you have just drunk the toast which has been proposed, and I can assure you that it is a matter of very great satisfaction to me to have been present on this occasion—the inauguration of the Hutt Histrict Agricultural, Horticultural, and Pastoral Association. I have had long both in the old country and in other colonies of associations such as yours, and whether in the old or in the new country, I have always attached very great importance to these societies and to these exhibitions. They create and stimulate a friendly emulation among neighbors; they open the minds of farmers to the° improvements which in agriculture and other things are being made from day to day; and I can assure you that I see with great satisfaction this association established here. It is the more so, because X believe, situated as you are here, this society is calculated to do more than the usual benefit to the part of the country in which we live. I am now going to make some remarks in which I shall feel I am treading upon the susceptibilities of some, but this circumstance —though I may regret it—l cannot help, for I have an awkward habit of expressing in plain language the feelings I entertain. tlemen, you of the Hutt, are situated in the immediate vicinity of the capital of New Zealand, which affords a market which should enable you to reap a harvest from the land which you occupy ; but there is no doubt tliat the market of Wellington has perhaps theworst supplied market of any town in a similar position. (Hear, hear.) The meat as a general rule is not what it ought to be, the vegetables as a role are decidedly bad, aud the poultry, too, is of a very inferior quality. (A laugh, and hear, hear.) These are strong expressions, gentlenv-o, and I daresay some people won’t Tike th-in ; but I defy anybody to deny the truth of the statements I make ;• —and further, I sav uot only is the market bad, but the prices are extremely high. Well, I believe an association of this kind is calculated to remove the evils I have alluded to—l believe it is calculated to improve articles sent to the market, and at the same time competition would to some extent reduce the price. (Hear, hear.) I have seen to-day evidence that in this valley you can raise produce which would do credit not only to Wellington, but to any market; and I hope that the result of the promotion of your society—even I may hope that the few remarks I have made to-day— may tend to bring the market produce such as has been exhibited, and at the same time to enrich the settlers of this beautiful valley. (Cheers.) While every attention should bo paid to the higher brauches of agriculture, I thiuk that attention to smaller matters would be profitable. The production of vegetables would, I am sure, return you ample compensation for the labor and care you might expend in that way, while the production of butter and eggs should not be despised by you. I attach vexy much importance to the small produce of a farm —good butter and poultry are much wanted in the Wellington market; and to show you I am in earnest on this point I may say it is my intention to hand over £lO to the association to be divided as prizes for exhibits in these classes. (Cheers.) I can only now say I sincerely and heartily wish you every success in your undertaking. I have seen many first attempts at agricultural shows, and this to my mind will certainly compare well with any I have soon. I trust each year the society will increase in numbers and importance, so that sufficient inducement may be offered to bring into competition here the products of different

parts of tiie colony, for I think you should turn your attention to the question whether it would not be right in this great colony to inaugurate a Koyal New Zealand Agricultural Association. The Royal Agricultural Association at Home takes the lead in all matters of agriculture, and in Canada you see very much the same thing. There it has been my good fortune to witness one of those great exhibitions at Toronto, and to behold what would have done credit to almost the best farm district in England. I don’t say the show was up to one of those of the Royal Agricultural Association, but I do say that in Canada the show at Toronto I saw was equal to anything of the kind at a district show in England. Well, if this has been done in Canada, why cannot it be done here 1 I know New Zealand is a younger colony, but that need be no bar to equal success, and I think it will soon be time for you turn to your attention to the matter. Depend upon it, agriculture is the backbone of a country, and on the success of agriculture in the colony will depend the future prosperity of New Zealand. And now I must conclude. I trust what I have said will be taken in a kindly spirit, that it may fall upon good ground and bring forth fruit, so that the market of Wellington may Ire better supplied, so that when we want a dish of fruit we may not be told that we must wait until the next steamer from Nelson comes in. I thank you for the manner in which you have drunk my health, and now propose “ Success to the Hutt District Agricultural, Horticultural, and Pastoral Association.” (Loud cheers.) The toast having been responded to, The Hon. W. B. Rhodes, M.L.C., then proposed “The Committee,” remarking that he had great pleasure in giving a toast that must commend itself to everyone who had witnessed the successful issue of the society’s first attempt. Like his Excellency he had seen first attempts before, and he might instance that of the Canterbury Society, which was in no degree superior to that of the Hutt Society. Of course since then Canterbury had grown, and its shows had developed into a form very different from that which the first took ; but so creditable a start as the Hutt Society had made gave promise of an equally successful future. (Applause.) Referring to the exhibits, he must say he had been specially struck with the pigs shown —he had no conception that there were such high breeds in pigs in the province as he had that day seen. He thought' it of great importance that the breeding of such an item of export should be encouraged, for it was only necessary to look at the position such an export had placed several American cities in. He thought his Excellency had thrown out some valuable hints, which it was to be hoped would have their effect.

Mr. Worth returned thanks on behalf of the committee, and said the objects of the society were mainly to remedy the evils his Excellency the Governor had so aptly and plainly referred to. As to the future of the society that depended upon the support accorded to it. So far there had been every cause for congratulation, and if the public were as liberal iu their support as they had been during the past few months, there need be little concern as to whether the committee would continue their efforts to make the society a success. (Applause.) Mr. Guo. Crawford briefly proposed the toast of “ The Secretary,” remarking on the onerous and important duties which always devolved upon the officer of such an association.

Mr. Corbett (the Secretary) responded, thanking the company for the compliment, aud stating that he should, if possible, continue to be as active as heretofore.

Mr. George Hdnter, said the toast which had been placed in his hands was one of considerable importance in connection with nil those societies, namely, that of “ The Health of the Judges”; and he need scarcely say that no persons, perhaps, had a greater influence upon the success of a society. Upon their work rested great responsibility, and lie thought the judges oh this occasion had discharged their duties faithfully, inasmuch as the decisions seemed to accord with public opinion. Certainly he had no reason to be dissatisfied with their awards. The Hon. Mr. Rhodes had made reference to one gentleman having taken nearly all the prizes in consequence of a want of competition. He believed that he (Mr. Hunter) was the gentleman re : ferred to. He might in reply say that there had been a dearth of competition because gentlemen like Mr. Rhodes had not sent exhibits. It was very well to wish the society success, but it could never become a success while gentlemen in Mr. Rhodes’ position did not compete. Cheers.) He had quite expected to have been met with a valuable Lincoln ram, which cost that gentleman, he had heard, something like £IOO in England; and if it had been shown, and beaten his (Mr. Hunters) sheep, he should have been satisfied with the result. He had been asked to send stock to the show, and he had done so ; and if he had taken a large number of the prizes he must plead guilty, but must state in extenuation that it was not his fault. (Hear, hear.) He then referred to what appeared to hiin unnecessary distinctions in the sheep and cattle classification, 'such as the distinction of pure-bred from other stock ; the prize should be offered for the best cattle of any particular class. He thought if such a course had been followed (and it was followed in Canterbury) there would have been more exhibits brought against him, and he should probably have been less successful. (Applause.) Mr. H. Braithwaite returned thanks.

The company then rose, and shortly afterwards his Excellency and suite left the ground.