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Richmond Bay—is the home of the most famous oysters. Here is the largest and richest field in Canada, from 15,000 to 16,000 acres in extent—a veritable El Dorado. On beds from a quarter of an acre to 40 acres in size the oysters have grown naturally, owing their extension to the drift of the spat with the tides, and the suitability of the soil upon which it falls, although no ground in the world is better adapted for the scientific propagation of this fish. Oyster fishing began in this Bay about 1859, and since then from 300 to 400 boats have been engaged annually in the industry. Although prices have fluctuated—depending on the weather during the fishing season—the tendency has always been upwards. 1n the forties of the last century, Bedeque Bay, on the shore of which now stands Snmmerside, furnished oysters which have never been surpassed ; but over—fishing has almost depleted these beds, and to-day the “ Malpeque ” is Canada’s favourite and most abundant oyster. These oysters took first prize at the Paris Exposition, and in Montreal, the chief market for the Island's product, the name “ Malpeque ” is synonymous for everything that is succulent, being very meaty, and when in the best condi- tion sometimes 8 or 9 inches long. They are found in the deep water off Curtain Island, and are of excellent flavour. bringing the highest price in the market; while those growing in the shallow water around the Islands of the Bay are cup shaped, round and plump, more delicious in flavor, keeping much longer than other varieties, and commanding the highest prices. The Narrows and Bideford River oysters compare very favourably w1th the latter. Next in value are the “Cove” oysters found in the coves of Richmond Bay. Some years ago before the era of scientific supervision, oyster fishing was prosecuted in a primitive fashion with rakes, and little or no attention was paid to that culture so necessary for the preservation of the species. It was indeed the custom in the time of William the Fourth to dig and burn the oyster for the lime contained,

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