  The ultrasonic properties of La$_{1-x}$Ca$_{x}$MnO$_{3}$ ($x\approx 0.25$)
with the Curie temperature $T_C$ about 200 K are studied. Temperature
dependences of longitudinal and transverse sound velocities were measured in
zero magnetic field and for different constant magnetic fields as well. The
ultrasonic study is supported by magnetic, resistive, magnetoresistive,
structural and other measurements of the sample that facilitate interpretation
of the results obtained. The magnetic field influence on sound properties found
in this study presents some new features of the interplay between the elastic
and magnetic properties of these compounds. It is shown that the
paramagnetic-ferromagnetic transition in the sample studied is first order, but
can become second order under the influence of applied magnetic field.
