Clipstone forms part of the Welbeck
estate and with the Duke's practical knowledge of agriculture he ordered
to be constructed an irrigation system by which he reclaimed thousands
of acres of land, formerly rabbit-warrens and swamps, so that they
became productive farms. The Duke's flood-dyke, and diversion of the
little river Maun for the purposes of drainage, cost him L80,000. His
weather-beaten coat and huge leather shoes, extending above the knees,
were familiar to the labourers and were characteristic of the simple
attire he wore when among them giving instructions as to the laying of
his drainpipes.
Many of the oaks on the Welbeck estate were transplanted thither under
the fourth Duke's direction, a mechanical appliance being used for the
purpose.
One of the lodges in the park was occupied by a porter whose duty was to
give beer, wine, bread and cake to any tramping man, woman or child who
chose to call.
The Farmer Duke was a lover of horses and racing, though there was
nothing mercenary in his connection with the Turf, for he never betted.
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