Figs. 265 and 266.—Common And Improved Wickets.
Fig. 267.—A Convenient Stile.
[Figure 265] is another form of gate, which consists of a V-shaped panel, filling the opening in the fence—the open ends of the V being fixed to posts equally distant from and in a line with one of the posts in the fence, and at right angles to it. This is improved by using bent wheel-rims, [figure 266], instead of the straight pieces forming the V-shaped panel. Kept well painted, the hickory rims will bear the exposure to the weather perfectly. The palings should be of oak, an inch wide and half an inch thick, fastened on with screws. The opening in these stiles must be sufficient to allow a corpulent person to pass easily, even if a frisky bull is in uncomfortable proximity, and for this [figure 266] is really the most convenient form. The objection to both of these stiles is, that there is no actual closing of the passage. Calves, sheep and pigs, not to mention dogs, work their way through. To prevent this, the gate-stile, [figure 267], was invented. It has a small gate swinging on the middle post, but stopped in its movement by the end-posts of the V. A person can pass by stepping well into the V and moving the gate by him, where he has free exit. This form is efficient, but inconvenient.
Fig. 268.—A Gate Stile.
Fig. 269—Swinging Stile.
Fig. 270.—A Neat Gate.