P. R. KRISHNA IYER                               5

failed to reproduce the disease. The same negative results were obtained
even when these organisms were inoculated sub-conjunctivally.

The possibility of any bacteria or a virus being concerned in the causa-
tion of this condition was thus eliminated. With a view to elucidate the
question of a seasonal incidence, if any, occurring in this condition which
if present may be attributed to biting flies and other insects, enquiries were
made and the following information was received.

Statement showing the entries of eye-cases in Hospital since 1928

The above tabular statement indicates that the disease is gradually
increasing. It also shows that the disease occurs at all times of the year
and as such there is no evidence of a seasonal incidence attributable to it,
though in the months of May, December and January, the number of cases
were more numerous than during the other months.

In the colts sold to the Remount Depots from these stud farms, this
eye trouble is not marked. Officers in charge of Remounts report that there
is not a heavy incidence. It was observed that district mares and foals were
never affected and that the incidence of this disease in Remount Depots in
animals sent from these stud farms was very rare. But at Coleyana many
cases occur in the young stock and the attacks terminate in blindness. The
question arises as to whether the source of infection is also removed when
the animals leave the Estate and whether the stock then make a complete
recovery.

One is, therefore, led to consider what differences there may be in the
general conditions between the Stud Farm and the Circles and it would appear
to be necessary to review them briefly.