V^etation which has been attacked by butyric acid, before cutting, in the field,
needs also to be covered and compressed at anocj or the air that is not expelled will
increase the activity of the pre-existing acid. Prickly comj&ey, notwithstanding great
pains taken, I have found refractory to alcoholic fermentation, and when exposed to
the air quickly becomes invaded by butyric acid, requiring quick consumption in
order to save it. While this plant is a very excellent fodder, it is well known to be
poor in saccharine matter. Therefore, alcoholic fermentation may fail in two cases :
when sugar is not abundant in the ensilaged material ; when a considerable altera-
tion existing at the time of ensilage prevents its development.
EXTRACT FROM A LETTER OF M. De BEAUQUESNE,

Oke of the Most Distinguished Agriculturists of France.
December 17, 1878.
