This stable is new since you were here, and we've made a number of improvements.

Do you see those bits of rock salt in each stall?
They are for the cows to lick whenever they want to.

Now, come here, and I'll show you what we call 'The Black Hole.'" It was a tiny stable off the main one, and it was very dark and cool.
"Is this a place of punishment ?" asked Miss Laura, in surprise.
Mrs.Wood laughed heartily.

"No, no; a place of pleasure.

Sometimes when the flies are very bad and the cows are brought into the yard to be milked and a fresh swarm settles on them, they are nearly frantic; and though they are the best cows in New Hampshire, they will kick a little.
When they do, those that are the worst are brought in here to be milked where there are no flies.