Birds are frequently over-fed at the show, particularly with barley, which cannot be properly digested for want of gravel and exercise; and therefore, if upon their return their crops are hard and combs look dark, give a tablespoonful of castor oil; but if they look well do not interfere with them. They should not have any grain, but be fed sparingly on stale bread soaked in warm ale, with two or three mouthfuls of tepid water, for liquid is most hurtful if given in quantity. They should not be put into the yard with the other fowls which may treat them, after their absence, as intruders, but be joined with them at night when the others have gone to roost. On the next day give them a moderate allowance of soft food with a moderate supply of water, or stale bread sopped in water, and a sod of grass or half a cabbage leaf each, but no other green food; and on the following day they may have their usual food. When the fowls are brought back, take out the linings, wash them, and put them by to be ready for the next show; and after the exhibition season, on a fine dry day, wash the hampers, dry them thoroughly, and put them in a dry place. Never use them as quiet berths for sick birds, which are sure to infect them and cause the illness of the next occupants; or as nesting-places for sitting hens, which may leave insects in the crevices that will be difficult to eradicate. In our descriptions of the various Breeds, we have given sufficient general information upon the Exhibition Points from the best authorities; but considerable differences of opinion have been expressed of late years, and eminent breeders dissent in some cases even from the generally recognised authority of the popular "Standard of Excellence." We, therefore, advise intending exhibitors to ascertain the standards to be followed at the show and the predilections of the judges, and to breed accordingly, or, if they object to the views held, not to compete at that exhibition. TECHNICAL TERMS. _Coverts._--The _upper_ and _lower wing coverts_ are those ranges of feathers which cover the primary quills; and the _tail coverts_ are those feathers growing on each side of the tail, and are longer than the body feathers, but shorter than those of the tail. _Dubbing._--Cutting off the comb and wattles of a cock; an operation usually confined to Game cocks. _Ear-lobe._--The small feathers covering the organ of hearing, which is placed a little behind the eye. _Flight._--The last five feathers of each wing. _Fluff._--The silky feathers growing on the thighs and hinder parts of Cochin-China fowls. _Hackles._--The _neck hackles_ are feathers growing from the neck, and covering the shoulders and part of the back; and the _saddle hackles_ those growing from the end of the back, and falling over the sides. _Legs._--The _legs_ are properly the lower and scaly limbs, the upper part covered with feathers and frequently mis-called legs, being correctly styled the _thighs_.