I have noticed a peculiarity in reaping in this section which must appear singular to an American.

The men cut inward instead of outward, as with us.

And these machines were following the same rule! As they went around the field, they were followed or rather met by men and women, each with an allotted beat, who rushed in behind and gathered up the fallen from the standing grain so as to make a clear path for the next round.

There seemed to be no reason for this singular and awkward practice, except the adhesion to an old custom of reaping.

The grain was not very stout, nor was it lodged.
From Northallerton I hastened on to Newcastle-upon-Tyne in order to attend, for the first time in my life, the meetings of the British Association.