"Well, that's probably due to two reasons," said her uncle; "first, we started with a good breed, and, second, we took good care of them. You see we use a well-lighted and ventilated piggery and were able to average two litters in the year, which, of course, is just twice as good as raising one. Then we were fortunate in having good litters. We raised eight pigs per litter, which is beyond the average." "Of course, Uncle Joe, Brookside Farm is no 'average' farm, and we ought to do better than average farming," she said. "Yes, Ruth, but it takes work and study to do that and the information that is in the bulletins must be transferred into our heads if we're going to work successfully." Hearing his wife chuckle, Williams looked up and said: "Well, now, Bettie, what are you laughing at?" "I was just thinking of our conference a year ago when we made up our first inventory. _I_ was the school teacher then, but I've evidently lost my position, for you are now the teacher of modern methods, Joe," said his wife. "And why not? Haven't you a job now that's big enough for any woman, looking after that son of ours?" "Well, I guess that will take some of my time, Joe," she laughed, "but just the same I'm pleased to know you're so interested in scientific investigation." "The potatoes paid $170 per acre," said Edith, "which is the highest rate per acre of all." "The wheat averaged well, too," said Joe Williams, "a little over $41 per acre. I'm sorry we didn't have a larger acreage in hay--this statement shows an earning of over $50 per acre." "That's so," said Bob, "but the dairy has earned a larger amount than any of the rest, for after deducting all expenses it shows a clear profit of $2954." "The poultry made a good showing, too, I want you to observe," said Edith; "$1373 isn't bad for a flock of chickens, I'd have you know, and remember, we were only making our start last year. One person could handle 1000 hens just as easily as 500, and the profit would be relatively larger. I'm sure the poultry will beat the dairy this coming year." "But look at Bob's 'Hidden Treasure' here," smiled Joe Williams; "$400 worth of ice off that little pond, and to think we allowed the neighbors to take away all they wanted for nothing in previous years." "Speaking of 'Hidden Treasure,' don't forget the $300 we got for cord wood from the old rail fences, Uncle Joe," said Bob. "They've all made a good showing," said his aunt, "and I think next year we can make the farm average $150 per acre or better." "It certainly is a good report," said Bob, "and I think we all should be very happy that our combined efforts have produced such fine results." "By the way, Bob," said his uncle, "when I settled with you last November, I paid you up to only November first, so here's a check for $225 for your wages to date. I figured it out at the new rate rather than the old one. Hereafter, I'll give you a check on the first day of each month."