Four
plows were kept steadily at work, and the ground was sown with
alfalfa or lucern as fast as it was got into condition. Patches of
Indian corn, pumpkins, and other vegetables were also planted. Mr.
Hardy resolved that until the country beyond him became so settled
that there could be little danger from Indian incursions, he would
not increase his stock of sheep and cattle, but would each year
sell off the increase.
He also decided upon entering extensively upon dairy operations. He
had already ascertained that a ready sale could be obtained, among
the European residents of Rosario and Buenos Ayres, of any amount
of butter and fresh cheese that he could produce, and that European
prices would be readily given for them. Up to the present time the
butter made had been obtained from the milk of two cows only, but
he now determined to try the experiment upon a large scale.
A dairy was first to be made. This was partially cut out of the
side of the slope, and lined with sun-baked bricks. Against the
walls, which projected above the ground, earth was piled, to make
them of a very considerable thickness. Strong beams were placed
across the roof; over these rafters was nailed felt, whitewashed
upon both sides to keep out insects. Upon this was placed a
considerable thickness of rushes, and, over all, puddled clay was
spread a foot deep.
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