nerations, they break forth with increased violence. And, as they appear suddenly, the utmost precaution of the most judicious graziers cannot detect the malady; so that no other choice remains, but immediately to cease breeding from the infected flock.
Having already observed, that the cause of the rickets is unknown, it is to be apprehended that the aversion evinced by breeders, to make proper inquiries, will probably contribute towards perpetuating this veil of ignorance. Nevertheless, we deemed it usfeful to state the symptoms that indicate the disease: such of our readers, as may wish more fully to investigate this subject, may consult Mr. Comber's practical essay, entitled Real Improvements in Agriculture, &c. (8vo. 1s. 6d. 1772), in which it is amply discussed; and an account is given of the steps that have been taken to ascertain the cause and seat of the rickets in sheep.
RIDGES, in agriculture, are long but narrow tracts ot rising soil, that intervene between two furrows.
Ploughing in ridges, is chiefly practised on wet lands; in order that the water may discharge itself into the furrows, and be thence conveyed by means of drains, or ditches, into some brook or rivulet. If the soil be deep, such ridges should be narrow; but, in shallow situations, they should be made broader; and, as the best or richest mould is collected in the tops, or crowns, it will be advisable to manure the sides; which, being necessarily rendered poor, would otherwise produce indifferent crops. Thus, the ground will become nearly of equal fertility, so long as the ameliorating properties of the dung or compost remain.
Great attention, however, is requisite, in forming ridges where the land is on a considerable declivity; for if they be too steep, a heavy shower of rain would produce irreparable mischief. To obviate such accidents, they should, if practicable, be directed both north and south, so as to be on a gentle slope; and thus gradually to carry off the water. By such method, crops (the seed of which has been sown on the east and west sides) will be alike exposed to the enlivening rays of the sun, and consequently about the same time attain to maturity.—See also Furrow and Ploughing.
RIDING, in general, signifies the act of being carried along in any vehicle, or on the back of an animal.
Riding is one of the most useful species of exercise, particularly to convalescents and invalids; as it tends to clear the intestinal canal, to remove obstructions, to promote digestion, and to facilitate the discharge of crude matters. The most healthy mode of riding, is that on horse-back; but, if a person be weak and exhausted, it will be more advisable to employ a carriage. In all cases, however, the agitation ought to be moderate, one window in the coach being left open, so that respiration may not be impeded or confined.
The most suitable time for this exercise, in the summer, will be the morning, previously to partaking of any food; or about the middle of the day in the spring, autumn, or winter; but it should never exceed the space of one hour, or an hour and a half. Thus, the
