A fourth form, the best of all, is the swinging A-stile, [figures 268] and [269]. In this there are two light gates, made upon the same hinge-post, spreading like the letter A, and braced with a cross-piece between the rails of each side, like the center part of the A. This gate is set to swing on each side of the center-post, as shown. It is so much narrower than the V-stiles, that it is almost impossible for small animals to pass, but it is easily hung so that it will always remain closed, and so offer no temptation to animals on the outside. At night, or when not in use, a wire ring or withe-hoop thrown over the top of the post and the upright part of the gate-frame, will securely fasten it. To make the gate swing shut, all that is necessary is to set the eye of the lower hinge of the gate well out towards the outside. In [figure 270] we give a neat A-gate, made of pine or any strong and light wood.
STILES FOR WIRE-FENCES.
Fig. 271.—Stile For Barb Wire Fence.
The extensive use of wire-fences calls for a farm convenience, heretofore but little known in this country—the stile. The manner of constructing one suitable for barb-wire fence is shown so plainly in the engraving, [figure 271], that no description is necessary. The cross-piece, upon which one passes from one flight of steps to the other, may be of any desired width.
Fig. 272.—Fence Stile.
Fig. 273.—Another Stile.
Stiles of convenient forms for wire fences are shown in [figures 272] and [273]. The one seen in [figure 272] takes less space on each side of the fence, but it is not so simple as that shown in [figure 273].