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+Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for
+eBook #60661 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/60661)
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-The Project Gutenberg EBook of Haney's Art of Training Animals, by Anonymous
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
-other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of
-the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
-www.gutenberg.org.  If you are not located in the United States, you'll have
-to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook.
-
-Title: Haney's Art of Training Animals
-       A Practical Guide For Amateur Or Professional Trainers.
-       Giving Full Instructions For Breaking, Taming and Teaching
-       All Kinds of Animals Including an Improved Method of Horse
-       Breaking, Management of Farm Animals, Training of Sporting
-       Dogs; Serpent Charming, Care and Tuition of Talking, Singing
-       and Performing Birds; and Detailed Instructions For Teaching
-       All Circus Tricks, and Many Other Wonderful Feats.
-
-Author: Anonymous
-
-Release Date: November 9, 2019 [EBook #60661]
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: UTF-8
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HANEY'S ART OF TRAINING ANIMALS ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by Richard Tonsing and the Online Distributed
-Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was
-produced from images generously made available by The
-Internet Archive)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-[Illustration: PRICE FIFTY CENTS. HANEY’S ART OF TRAINING ANIMALS. JESSE
-HANEY & CO., PUBLISHERS, No. 119 NASSAU STREET, NEW YORK.]
-
-[Illustration: THE SIEGE—PERFORMED BY DOG AND MONKEY ACTORS]
-
-
-
-
-                                HANEY’S
-                                 ART OF
-                           TRAINING ANIMALS.
-                         A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR
-                   AMATEUR OR PROFESSIONAL TRAINERS.
-                      GIVING FULL INSTRUCTIONS FOR
-           Breaking, Taming and Teaching all kinds of Animals
-   INCLUDING AN IMPROVED METHOD OF HORSE BREAKING, MANAGEMENT OF FARM
- ANIMALS, TRAINING OF SPORTING DOGS; SERPENT CHARMING, CARE AND TUITION
-OF TALKING, SINGING AND PERFORMING BIRDS; AND DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS FOR
-                              TEACHING ALL
-                             CIRCUS TRICKS,
-                    AND MANY OTHER WONDERFUL FEATS.
-
-
-                ILLUSTRATED WITH OVER SIXTY ENGRAVINGS.
-
-
-                               New York:
-                     JESSE HANEY & CO., PUBLISHERS,
-                       OFFICE OF HANEY’S JOURNAL,
-                         NO. 119 NASSAU STREET.
-
-
-
-
-    Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1869, by JESSE
-    HANEY & CO., in the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the
-         United States, for the Southern District of New York.
-
-                   _Haney’s Art of Training Animals_.
-
-
-          Electrotyped by
-        _Smith & McDougal_,
-  82 and 84 Beekman Street, N. Y.
-
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
-
-
-
-                                CONTENTS
-
-
- PREFACE.
- CHAPTER I. INTRODUCTORY—GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF TRAINING.
- CHAPTER II. HORSE TAMING AND HORSE TRAINING—HORSE MANAGEMENT—WHIP
-    TRAINING—CURING BAD HABITS, ETC.
- CHAPTER III. ENGLISH SYSTEM OF TRAINING HUNTERS.
- CHAPTER IV. TRICKS OF PERFORMING HORSES, AND HOW THEY ARE TAUGHT.
- CHAPTER V. THEATRICAL HORSES AND THE HORSE DRAMA.
- CHAPTER VI. BREAKING AND TRAINING MULES—PERFORMING AND “COMIC” MULES.
- CHAPTER VII. SOME HINTS FOR FARMERS—MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING OF ANIMALS
-    ON THE FARM—SOME EVILS AND HOW TO REMEDY THEM—GOOD TRAINING VS. BAD.
- CHAPTER VIII. DOGS IN GENERAL—WATCH DOGS—THE SHEPHERD’S DOG.
- CHAPTER IX. SPORTING DOGS AND THEIR MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING.
- CHAPTER X. ORDINARY TRICKS PERFORMED BY DOGS.
- CHAPTER XI. WONDERFUL FEATS PERFORMED BY DOGS—MOST CELEBRATED DOGS OF
-    THE WORLD—LEARNING THE ALPHABET—TO PLAY CARDS AND DOMINOES—TO SELECT
-    ANY ARTICLE DESIRED AND PUT IT ANYWHERE DIRECTED.
- CHAPTER XII. TAMING AND TRAINING ELEPHANTS—CAPTURE AND
-    TREATMENT—ELEPHANTS AS LABORERS AND AS CIRCUS PERFORMERS.
- CHAPTER XIII. LIONS, TIGERS, LEOPARDS AND PANTHERS.
- CHAPTER XIV. TAMING WILD ANIMALS IN
-    GENERAL—SQUIRRELS—BEARS—BUFFALOES—WOLVES—HYENAS—RHINOCEROSES—
-    HIPPOPOTAMI—CROCODILES—ALLIGATORS.
- CHAPTER XV. EDUCATION OF CATS AND GOATS.
- CHAPTER XVI. EDUCATED HOGS AND THEIR TRAINING.
- CHAPTER XVII. PERFORMING MONKEYS—MONKEY EQUESTRIANS—THE “WONDERFUL
-    CYNOCEPHALUS”—MONKEY ACTORS, ETC.
- CHAPTER XVIII. RATS—MICE—FROGS—TOADS—FLEAS, ETC.
- CHAPTER XIX. “HAPPY FAMILIES”—ENEMIES BY NATURE MADE FRIENDS BY ART.
- CHAPTER XX. EDUCATED SEALS—TAME FISH, ETC.
- CHAPTER XXI. THE ART OF TAMING BIRDS.
- CHAPTER XXII. SONG BIRDS—THEIR MANAGEMENT AND TUITION.
- CHAPTER XXIII. TALKING BIRDS AND THEIR TRAINING.
- CHAPTER XXIV. PERFORMING BIRDS—THEIR TRICKS AND THEIR TRAINING.
- CHAPTER XXV. SNAKE CHARMING AND SNAKE CHARMER.
-
-
-
-
-                                PREFACE.
-
-
-The intention of the present volume is to initiate the reader into all
-the mysteries and secrets of the “Art of Training Animals,” and to give
-full and clear explanations of, and instructions in, every branch of
-that art. It is believed that the reader will find it acceptable whether
-he desires using its instructions practically either for profit or as an
-agreeable recreation, or as merely a curiosity to know how the feats
-herein described are taught.
-
-This is believed to be the first and only attempt made to treat this
-subject fully and systematically. Fragmentary articles have occasionally
-appeared, and some works, treating of one or another of the various
-animals, have given a few brief though interesting paragraphs touching
-their educatability or sagacity. Even combined these form but a
-comparatively meager collection, and the volume herewith presented has
-the essential part of all this as well as a very large amount of matter
-which is entirely new. The aim has been to make the book as complete as
-possible, and to do this the author has profited by the experience and
-writings of others wherever they could be made available. He has,
-however, striven in all such cases to give full credit. As far as it was
-possible to communicate with the parties in question, their consent was
-explicitly obtained, and in no case to the best of his knowledge
-(certainly not intentionally) has any material been used contrary to the
-wishes of its owner, or without due acknowledgment, and he would
-respectfully ask any who may desire to make use of any part of his own
-labors to a reasonable extent, the same courtesy of full credit to
-Haney’s Art of Training Animals.
-
-To many gentlemen in the profession we are indebted for details of their
-experience, and material of various kinds. Much of information relating
-to birds is derived from the works of the celebrated German fancier
-Bechstein; while to Mons. Emil de Tarade is due a portion of that about
-the French dogs. To Mr. Robert Jennings, whose works on the horse, as
-well as on cattle, are deservedly popular, we are also indebted; also to
-Mr. Smith of the New York Courier.
-
-While attempting to give plain practical instruction in the art we
-profess to teach, we have also designed to make a readable book, and it
-is hoped that its perusal may prove pleasant as well as profitable. That
-money can be made by training animals, is unquestionably true—even a boy
-can make his pets more valuable by teaching them a few simple tricks.
-
-In conclusion we may add that to amateurs interested in the subject, a
-visit to either of the really fine collections of trained and wild
-animals of Van Amburgh or “Yankee” Robinson, will prove most thoroughly
-enjoyable. To the proprietors of both of these establishments we are
-indebted for valuable assistance.
-
-
-
-
-                        ART OF TRAINING ANIMALS.
-
-
-
-
-                               CHAPTER I.
-              INTRODUCTORY—GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF TRAINING.
-
-
-Dr. Kemp thus concisely and clearly stages the difference between
-instinct and reason: “In the former there is an irresistible impulse to
-go through a certain series of motions after a certain fashion, without
-knowing why they are performed, or what their result will be. In the
-latter the actions depend upon previous mental judgments, are performed
-or not at will, and the end of them is early anticipated and defined.”
-
-We believe the evidence is too strong to be doubted that many animals
-_do_ perceive the relation between cause and effect, and that many of
-their actions, especially when the animals are surrounded by the
-unnatural circumstances of a state of domestication, must be ascribed to
-the reasoning power. There was a dog who lived in a strict monastery
-where the monks dined alone, and who, instead of asking for their meals,
-obtained them by knocking at the buttery door, the cook answering by
-opening the door and pushing the allowance through. The dog observed
-this proceeding and accordingly knocked at the door and laid in wait
-until the meal was placed outside, and the door shut, when he ran off
-with it. This he repeated a number of times.
-
-The contrast between instinct and reason is displayed in the coursing of
-hares. If an old and a young grayhound be employed we have examples of
-both instinct and reason. The young one instinctively pursues his game,
-following every turn and winding, while the old dog, reasoning from past
-experience, knows that the hare will double, and accordingly does not
-exactly follow her, but goes across. A similar example is afforded by
-the dogs employed in hunting the deer in South America. The newly
-imported dog, in approaching the deer, flies at it in front and is often
-injured by the concussion. The native dogs have learned to avoid this
-danger and they invariably keep from the front, and attack from the side
-or rear.
-
-Instances might be multiplied indefinitely, but our object is only to
-show the distinction made between reason and instinct; those who desire
-to investigate the subject more thoroughly can do so through works
-specially devoted to natural history. No doubt any observing person can
-recall instances in his own experience with animals, where their actions
-showed evidence of a greater or less degree of reasoning power.
-
-An action may be partly instinctive and partly the result of reasoning,
-but a purely instinctive action never changes except under the influence
-of reason. A hen sits on her eggs from an instinctive impulse to do so.
-If chalk ones be substituted for the real eggs she tends them with equal
-care and will not desert them any sooner than she would the others. And
-yet in other matters perhaps hens have reasoning powers.
-
-Without the possession of these powers we believe no education of
-animals would be possible; and we farther believe that the capacity for
-learning is in exact proportion to the ability to reason. A horse or dog
-can be readily taught things which a hog can never learn, and in the
-lower scales of animal life all attempts at education become failures.
-Under the tuition of man the reasoning powers are undoubtedly developed
-to an extent to which they would never attain in a state of nature, and
-by judicious and persistent teaching numerous animals have been educated
-to an almost startling degree. How this has been done we shall show as
-we proceed.
-
-Not only does the amount of reason vary with different species but with
-different individuals of the same species, and much of the trainer’s
-success will depend on the judicious selection of his pupil.
-Professional trainers take the utmost pains in this selection, and they
-usually consider that the descendants of an educated animal have, by
-inheritance, a greater aptitude for learning than others.
-
-The young trainer must not fall into the mistaken notion that mere
-quickness in picking up a trick is the best quality in an animal. There
-may be such a thing as learning a lesson too rapidly, and what is
-learned with but slight effort is sometimes forgotten with equal
-readiness. Another thing, too much should not be expected of one pupil.
-Public exhibitors are able to show a large array of tricks because of
-the number of animals they have, each, as a rule, knowing a
-comparatively few of these tricks, or, in the case of some of the
-“sensation” tricks, perhaps only one. Still any animal of ordinary
-capacity ought, with proper tuition, to be able to learn a sufficient
-variety to satisfy a reasonable trainer. Judicious management on the
-part of the exhibitor will often make a variety of tricks out of a
-single one which the animal has been taught; an example of this is
-afforded by the “educated hog.”
-
-The first essential for success in training animals is patience. At
-first many lessons may be given without the slightest apparent
-impression being made upon the mind of the pupil and an uncommon degree
-of patience and good temper is required to bear up against such
-discouraging results. By-and-by, however, the pupil will suddenly appear
-to realize what is required of him, and will perform his task with
-surprising accuracy at the very moment his teacher is about to give up
-in despair. Then each successive lesson is learned with greater ease and
-rapidity than the preceding one; the weariness and disappointment of the
-trainer is changed to pleasure at his success, and even the animal
-appears to sympathize with his master’s joy, and to take pride in his
-performance.
-
-As it is impossible to _explain_ to an animal what is required of him he
-can be taught an action only by its constant repetition until he becomes
-familiar with it. When he knows what you want him to do he will in
-almost all cases comply with your wishes promptly and cheerfully. For
-this reason punishments seldom do any good, unless the animal is
-willful, which is rare. On the contrary they, as a general rule,
-interfere with the success of the lessons. If the pupil is in constant
-fear of blows his attention will be diverted from the lesson, he will
-dread making any attempt to obey for fear of failure, and he will have a
-sneaking look which will detract materially from the appearance of his
-performance. This is the case with the animals instructed by a trainer
-of this city who “trains his horses with a club,” the animals never
-appearing as well as those taught by more gentle means. But for a rare
-natural talent this man’s success would have been utterly defeated by
-his brutality. He is the only one we know of in the profession who does
-not base his tuition on kindness to the pupil. A sharp word or a slight
-tap with a small switch will as effectually show your displeasure as the
-most severe blows. It is both cruel and unwise to inflict needless pain.
-
-All trainers make use of various little tit-bits as rewards for
-successful performance of tricks. These serve as a powerful incentive to
-the animal as well as to show him when he has done right. Withholding
-the accustomed reward when he fails or but imperfectly performs his duty
-is much more effective than any corporeal punishment. The repetition of
-the lesson until the animal will himself perform the required action,
-and the bestowal of these rewards whenever he obeys your order, is
-really the main secret of training. Of course there are many important
-details in the practical application, and many clever devices resorted
-to by trainers to increase the effectiveness of tricks, as well as
-skillful combinations of simple tricks to produce elaborate and
-astonishing feats. These we shall fully explain in their proper places.
-
-To certain scents has sometimes been ascribed a mysterious influence
-upon animals, rendering them docile and subservient to the human will.
-To the use of these many persons imagine trainers owe their success.
-Though some scents are relished by certain animals, we doubt whether, as
-a rule, they have so great a fondness for them as has been asserted.
-Certainly there is no general use of them in the profession, though they
-may have been sold to the credulous by ignorant or unprincipled persons,
-for this purpose. Cats are fond of catnip, and we know of instances
-where kittens, displaying a violent resistance to being carried in a
-basket, have been quieted by being given some leaves of this herb.
-Animals no doubt receive pleasure from the gratification of their sense
-of smell, but there is about as much reason in conquering an unruly
-school-boy by giving him a sniff of cologne water, as in taming a colt
-by causing him to smell that or any other perfume.
-
-To the oil of rhodium is most frequently ascribed the greatest and most
-general influence over the animal kingdom, almost all animals, according
-to this theory being powerfully affected by it. This is the “horse
-taming secret” sometimes sold for considerable sums. There is no good
-reason to believe it has any important influence over either the
-disposition or actions of any animal.
-
-The horse taming powders, composed of “a horse’s corn grated, some hairs
-from a black cat’s tail,” and like absurd ingredients, are too
-nonsensical to deserve serious notice, though once a staple part of the
-veterinary art, and still, possibly, believed in by a few persons.
-
-To a certain extent many animals are able to understand the meaning of
-words. That is, if any particular word of command be used in instructing
-an animal to do a particular act he will learn to associate that word
-with the action, and be able to distinguish between a variety of words
-and apply each to the act associated with it, without confusing them. In
-training animals it is important that each word of command should be
-used only in its proper place. The common habit ignorant drivers have of
-using the words “back,” “whoa,” and others indiscriminately is absurd,
-and it is not wonderful that their horses sometimes fail to understand
-them. A story is told of a farmer who had recently purchased a new yoke
-of oxen, and was driving them in a cart. Slipping from his seat he fell
-before one of the wheels and very naturally got run over. “Back! back!”
-he cried to the oxen, meaning for them to _stop_, but, like many another
-man, using words which meant something else. The oxen happened to be
-better linguists, or else had been accustomed to obey literally, and in
-this case did so by backing as ordered, running over the man for the
-second time.
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER II.
- HORSE TAMING AND HORSE TRAINING—HORSE MANAGEMENT—WHIP TRAINING—CURING
-                            BAD HABITS, ETC.
-
-
-Some few persons imagine that to possess a proper mastery over their
-horses, they must maintain their authority by brute force. This is a
-great mistake. More work, within the limit of safety, can be got out of
-a horse by kindness than by cruelty, and as far as _managing_ a horse is
-concerned the chief point is to teach him confidence in you. If he
-believes you to be his friend he will not only strive to please you, but
-will have less fear of strange objects which otherwise might startle him
-and render him refractory.
-
-The Rareys—there are two or three of them—taught the world a most
-important lesson when they taught it the “power of kindness” and
-“self-control” in the management of horses, donkeys, zebras, and other
-animals. How often do we see inconsiderate parents fly into a passion
-and, without reason or religion, thrash the object of their displeasure.
-So of brutal, heartless drivers, when the “blinded” horses chance to
-misstep, get off the track, stumble, or in the wrong place. By their
-actions it would appear that they expected a horse or an ass to reason
-quite as well as themselves. Employers may not look for the same talent
-in their apprentices as in their foreman. Teachers may expect every
-little urchin to be self-regulating and to mind his books; but this it
-is his duty to _teach_ him to do, and he should be all patience, all
-kindness, affection, perseverance, if he would produce the _best_
-results. The same spirit is required to subdue and manage a horse. If
-you say you are not equal to the task; if you say your child, your
-horse, or your ox knows _more_ than you, is your master, then you are
-not the one to manage him, and you should resign in favor of one who is
-superior to child, horse, or ox. A weak man in intellect may indeed be
-outwitted by a sagacious child or horse.
-
-There is no disguising the fact that viciousness is innate with some
-horses. But far more so with some, nay, most, men, from whom they get
-it. It is no doubt sometimes hereditary, and follows some of the best
-strains of blood we have. That viciousness should accompany a highly
-nervous organization is not to be wondered at. Hence it causes no
-surprise when we find such dispositions among the finely organized
-thoroughbreds—animals of a most sensitive and nervous organization—from
-which the common expression “thin skinned,” as applied to a too
-sensitive man, is obviously derived. The treatment horses receive, and
-the _moral_ atmosphere in which they are thrown, have a much greater
-influence than most horsemen are generally inclined to admit. The
-pinching, tickling, rough, boisterous stable boy who annoys a spirited
-horse for the sake of enjoying his futile, though almost frantic kicks
-and leers, is affecting the disposition of the horse and his descendants
-for generations to come, besides putting in jeopardy the lives and limbs
-of those who are brought in contact with the horse so tampered with. A
-horse is surely influenced by the character of the men with whom he
-associates.
-
-Sometimes, however, it is necessary to conquer a bad tempered horse, and
-if possible to secure a radical conversion or change of character which
-shall be lasting. No timorous man need undertake this task; he will only
-make matters worse. A horse tamer should be calm, cool, brave, and
-fearless—the horse will know it; he should be quiet, for then the horse
-will be put off his guard; he should be firm and give the brute no
-advantage, but crowd him up to doing something, and that, invariably,
-what the tamer wants him to do. Thus any ordinary horse will soon give
-up and own man his master. The kindest treatment and even petting must
-always follow yielding; and if possible to help it, the horse should
-never be frightened by any treatment, and above all things he should
-never be angered by petty torture. His own contrariness should appear to
-him to be the cause of all his trouble, and man his best friend. This
-principle is at the foundation of Rarey’s successful practice.
-
-
-                  POWELL’S MANAGEMENT OF WILD HORSES.
-
-Place your horse in a small yard, or in a stable or room. If in a stable
-or room, it ought to be large, in order to give him some exercise with
-the halter before you lead him out. If the horse belongs to that class
-which appears only to fear man, you must introduce yourself gently into
-the stable, room, or yard, where the horse is. He will naturally run
-from you, and frequently turn his head from you; for you must walk about
-extremely slow and softly, so that he can see you whenever he turns his
-head toward you, which he never fails to do in a short time, say in a
-quarter or half an hour. I never knew one to be much longer without
-turning toward me.
-
-At the very moment he turns his head, hold out your hand toward him, and
-stand perfectly still, keeping your eyes upon the horse, watching his
-motions, if he makes any. If the horse does not stir for ten or fifteen
-minutes, advance as slowly as possible, and without making the least
-noise, always holding out your left hand, without any other ingredient
-in it than what nature put in it. I have made use of certain ingredients
-before people, such as the sweat under my arm, etc., to disguise the
-real secret and many believed that the docility to which the horse
-arrived in so short a time was owing to these ingredients; but you see
-from this explanation that they were of no use whatever. The implicit
-faith placed in these ingredients, though innocent of themselves,
-becomes “faith without works.” And thus men always remained in doubt
-concerning the secret. If the horse makes the least motion when you
-advance toward him, stop, and remain perfectly still until he is quiet.
-Remain a few moments in this condition, and then advance again in the
-same slow and almost imperceptible manner. Take notice, if the horse
-stirs, stop, without changing your position. It is very uncommon for the
-horse to stir more than once after you begin to advance, yet there are
-exceptions. He generally keeps his eyes steadfast on you, until you get
-near enough to touch him on the forehead. When you are thus near to him,
-raise your hand slowly and by degrees, and let it come in contact with
-that part just above the nostrils as lightly as possible. If the horse
-flinches (as many will,) repeat with great rapidity these light strokes
-upon the forehead, going a little farther up toward his ears by degrees,
-and descending with the same rapidity until he will let you handle his
-forehead all over. Now let the strokes be repeated with more force all
-over his forehead, descending by lighter strokes to each side of his
-head, until you can handle that part with equal facility. Then touch in
-the same light manner, making your hands and fingers play around the
-lower part of the horse’s ears, coming down now and then to his
-forehead, which may be looked upon as the helm that governs all the
-rest.
-
-Having succeeded in handling his ears, advance toward the neck with the
-same precaution, and in the same manner; observing always to augment the
-force of the strokes whenever the horse will permit it. Perform the same
-on both sides of the neck, until he lets you take it in your arms
-without flinching.
-
-Proceed in the same progressive manner to the sides, and then to the
-back of the horse. Every time the horse shows any nervousness, return
-immediately to the forehead, as the true standard, patting him with your
-hands, and thence rapidly to where you had already arrived, always
-gaining ground a considerable distance farther on every time this
-happens. The head, ears, neck, and body being thus gentled, proceed from
-the back to the root of the tail.
-
-This must be managed with dexterity, as a horse is never to be depended
-on that is skittish about the tail. Let your hand fall lightly and
-rapidly on that part next to the body a minute or two, and then you will
-begin to give it a slight pull upward every quarter of a minute. At the
-same time you continue this handling of him, augment the force of the
-strokes as well as the raising of the tail, until you can raise it and
-handle it with the greatest ease, which commonly happens in a quarter of
-an hour in most horses, in others almost immediately, and in some much
-longer. It now remains to handle all his legs; from the tail come back
-again to the head, handle it well, as likewise the ears, breast, neck,
-etc., speaking now and then to the horse. Begin by degrees to descend to
-the legs, always ascending and descending, gaining ground every time you
-descend, until you get to his feet.
-
-Talk to the horse while thus taming him; let him hear the sound of your
-voice, which at the beginning of the operation is not quite so
-necessary, but which I have always done in making him lift up his feet.
-“Hold up your foot,” you will say; at the same time lifting his foot
-with your hand. He soon becomes familiar with the sounds, and will hold
-up his foot at command. Then proceed to the hind feet and go on in the
-same manner; and in a short time the horse will let you lift them, and
-even take them up in your arms.
-
-All this operation is no magnetism, or galvanism; it is merely taking
-away the fear a horse generally has of a man, and familiarizing the
-animal with his master. As the horse doubtless experiences a certain
-pleasure from this handling, he will soon become gentle under it, and
-show a very marked attachment to his keeper.
-
-
-                      MANAGING HORSES BY KINDNESS.
-
-A lady visiting Egypt some years ago, gave in one of her letters to her
-friends at home, an instance of the power of gentleness in controlling
-even the most spirited of horses. She gives the following description of
-her experience with the Arabian horses: “I fear you may deem me rather
-boastful of my horsemanship when I tell you that the two Arab horses
-which threw their cavaliers did not throw me. The cause of the exception
-was not in me or my skill; it was the very remarkable predilection these
-intelligent animals feel toward individuals of the weaker sex. Let the
-wildest and fiercest Arabian be mounted by a woman, and you will see him
-suddenly grow mild and gentle as a lamb. I have had plenty of
-opportunities to make the experiment, and in my own stables there is a
-beautiful gray Arabian which nobody but myself dares to ride. He knows
-me, anticipates my wishes, and judiciously calculates the degree of
-fatigue I can bear without inconvenience. It is curious to see how he
-can manage to quicken his pace without shaking me, and the different
-sorts of steps he has invented to realize those contradictory purposes.
-Horses being as liable to forgetfulness as other organized beings, my
-incomparable gray would allow his natural ambition to overcome his
-gallantry, and if another horse threatened to pass him, would start off
-with the speed of the whirlwind. Woe to me if, under these
-circumstances, I were to trust to the strength of my arm or the power of
-the bridle! I knew my gallant charger better. Leaving my hand quite
-loose, and abandoning all thoughts of compulsion, I would take to
-persuasion; pat him on the neck; call him by his name; beg him to be
-quiet and deserve the piece of sugar waiting for him at home. Never did
-these gentle means fail. Instantly he would slacken his pace, prick up
-his ears as if fully comprehending his error, and come back to a soft
-amble, gently neighing as if to crave pardon for his momentary offense.”
-
-This power of women over the Arabian horses is partly due, no doubt, to
-the fact that when still a colt he is reared in the back part of the
-tent, the movable harem of the Arab. He is constantly petted, and it is
-the women who see that he is supplied with food, and tenderly cared for.
-It is the attachment which is by these means awakened in the horse that
-leads him to so cheerfully yield obedience to the female voice.
-Deservedly high as may stand the Arabian horse for docility and
-sagacity, it should not be forgotten that, in the absence of all other
-amusements, the education of the foal becomes a pleasure as well as a
-business; it thus becomes attached to its biped companions, and takes a
-pride in enacting all that is required of him. If his rider falls, the
-horse will stand by and neigh for assistance; if he lies down to sleep,
-the horse will watch over him and give notice of the approach of man or
-beast. Similar anecdotes are related of all horses kindly treated, no
-matter where may be their home. We heard of one who had a drunken
-master, and this horse surpassed the Arab example even in intelligence,
-for he would modify his gait so as to keep his reeling rider from
-falling off; and if this catastrophe did happen, the horse would stand
-for hours, regardless of food or drink, and with anger and determination
-attack man or beast that would approach too near.
-
-
-                    TO CURE A STUBBORN DISPOSITION.
-
-If your horse, instead of being wild, seems to be of a stubborn or
-_mulish_ disposition; if he lays back his ears as you approach him, or
-turns his heels to kick you, he has not the regard or fear of man that
-he should have to enable you to handle him quickly and easily; and it
-might be well to give him a few sharp cuts with the whip, about the
-legs, pretty close to the body. It will crack keenly as it plies around
-his legs, and the crack of the whip will affect him as much as the
-stroke; besides one sharp cut about his legs will affect him more than
-two or three over his back, the skin on the inner part of his legs or
-about his flank being thinner, more tender, than on his back. But do not
-whip him much—just enough to frighten him; _it is not because we want to
-hurt the horse that we whip him_—we only do it to frighten vice and
-stubbornness out of him. But whatever you do, do quickly, sharply, and
-with a good deal of fire, but always without anger. If you are going to
-frighten him at all, you must do it at once. Never go into a pitched
-battle with your horse, and whip him until he is mad and will fight you;
-it would be better not to touch him at all, for you will establish,
-instead of fear and respect, feelings of resentment, hatred, and
-ill-will. It will do him no good, but harm, to strike him, unless you
-can frighten him; but if you can succeed in frightening him, you can
-whip him without making him mad; _for fear and anger never exist
-together in the horse_, and as soon as one is visible, you will find
-that the other has disappeared. As soon as you have frightened him, so
-that he will stand up straight and pay some attention to you, approach
-him again, and caress him a good deal more than you whipped him; thus
-you will excite the two controlling passions of his nature, love and
-fear; he will love and fear you too; and, as soon as he learns what you
-require, will obey quickly. The stubbornness once broken down, there is
-seldom any farther trouble of that score, if the horse be afterward
-managed with judgment and kindness. He will appreciate your kindness and
-become desirous of pleasing you.
-
-
-                       THE CORD AND LINE WEBBING.
-
-One of the main appliances used by horse tamers is a three or four ply
-cord or rope, one of cotton being the best, such as is used by the
-Indians for subduing their horses. This cord is a powerful instrument
-for either good or evil, as it is properly or improperly used. It may be
-prepared by any one in the manner shown in the engraving:
-
-[Illustration: LOOPING THE CORD.]
-
-A knot is to be tied in each end, then make a loop by doubling the cord
-and passing the knot through as represented above. Be careful to make
-the loops at such a distance from the knot as will allow the cord to
-pass around the neck at one end, and the lower jaw at the other, passing
-the knot through the loop from the opposite side of the loop to where it
-passed through in making the lap. The necessity for this will be seen on
-applying the cord. The object is to obtain steady pressure upon the
-lower jaw, as well as friction in the mouth.
-
-In addition to the cord a piece of worsted webbing, such as is used for
-driving lines should be prepared in the following manner: Divide it into
-two parts, one piece being of sufficient length to girt the body. Make a
-loop in one end large enough for the other end to pass through, so as,
-when adjusted it is sufficiently long to tie. These pieces of webbing
-will be useful in carrying out future directions.
-
-
-                       TO TEACH A HORSE TO STOP.
-
-The word “whoa” should be used only to stop a horse when he is in
-motion. Never use it when you approach a horse standing quietly. Horses
-soon learn to distinguish any word often addressed to them, and they
-should learn to associate it with some definite and exact duty which you
-wish them to perform. If any word of command is used indiscriminately,
-or out of its proper place, the animal becomes confused and loses the
-association between the word and the object desired.
-
-To teach a horse the meaning of the word “whoa,” the arrangement shown
-in the accompanying illustration may be used. Put the large web,
-previously described, around his near fore foot, pass it under the
-girth; and as the animal walks along, pull up the foot, saying at the
-same instant, “Whoa.” He will be brought to a stop, and by repeating the
-lesson he will soon raise the foot and stop even though the web is not
-pulled upon.
-
-[Illustration: “WHOA.”]
-
-[Illustration: TEACHING THE HORSE TO BACK.]
-
-
-                       TO TEACH A HORSE TO BACK.
-
-Put the cord upon the horse, using the small loop; draw it with a steady
-pull; this brings the horse’s nose toward his body. Keep a firm hold
-upon the cord until he steps back a little, using at the same time the
-word “back.” Then caress him; by doing so you show him that he has done
-exactly as you wished him to, and the caresses should be repeated every
-time he obeys. The utmost gentleness must be observed in order not to
-excite him, and the lesson should not be long enough to tire him. Five
-to ten minutes being the best length, repeated at intervals of a few
-hours. As soon as he understands what you desire he will probably back
-promptly at command.
-
-
-                      TO MAKE A HORSE FOLLOW YOU.
-
-The directions make simple what have hitherto been among the mysteries
-of the circus. Turn the horse into a large stable or shed, where there
-is no chance to get out, with a halter or bridle on. Go to him and
-gentle him a little, take hold of his halter, and turn him toward you,
-at the same time touching him lightly over the hips with a long whip.
-Lead him the length of the stable, rubbing him on the neck, saying in a
-steady tone of voice, “Come along, boy!” or use his name instead of
-“boy,” if you choose. Every time you turn, touch him slightly with the
-whip, to make him step up close to you, and then caress him with your
-hand. He will soon learn to hurry up to escape the whip and be caressed,
-and you can make him follow you around without taking hold of the
-halter. If he should stop and turn from you, give him a few sharp cuts
-about the hind legs, and he will soon turn his head toward you, when you
-must always caress him. A few lessons of this kind will make him run
-after you, when he sees the motion of the whip—in twenty or thirty
-minutes he will follow you about the stable. After you have given him
-two or three lessons in the stable, take him out into a small field and
-train him; and thence you can take him into the road and make him follow
-you anywhere, and run after you.
-
-
-                       TO STAND WITHOUT HOLDING.
-
-To make a horse stand without holding, after you have him well broken to
-follow you, place him in the center of the stable—begin at his head to
-caress him, gradually working backward. If he moves give him a cut with
-the whip, and put him back to the same spot from which he started. If he
-stands, caress him as before, and continue gentling him in this way
-until you can get round him without making him move. Keep walking around
-him, increasing your pace, and only touch him occasionally. Enlarge your
-circle as you walk around, and if he then moves, give him another cut
-with the whip, and put him back to his place. If he stands, go to him
-frequently and caress him, and then walk around him again. Do not keep
-him in one position too long at a time, but make him come to you
-occasionally, and follow you around the stable. Then make him stand in
-another place, and proceed as before. You should not train your horse
-more than half an hour at a time.
-
-
-                             WHIP TRAINING.
-
-So accustomed are we to the use of bit and reins for driving that we
-have got to consider them absolutely requisite for guiding a horse.
-Horses however may, if properly taught, be driven without either bit or
-reins, merely by signals with the whip. Probably the simplest and most
-concise directions for whip training are given by Mr. Jennings in his
-valuable work on training horses. Mr. Jennings says:
-
-“To train a horse thoroughly to drive without bit or line, under the
-whip, requires from four to six weeks’ time; it requires also a man of
-strong nerve and self-control to be a successful trainer in this
-particular branch. Whip training illustrates the beauty and power of our
-system of horse training. Such a feat as driving a horse without bit or
-line cannot be accomplished by any other system known to man. Having
-selected a horse with a moderate share of intelligence, the next thing
-is to secure a suitable place for training. An enclosure twenty-five or
-thirty feet square is required. If you have it smaller, and your horse
-should be disposed to kick, you would be in danger; if larger it gives
-the animal too much room to get away from the whip. It is better that
-you go in with the horse alone, as then the animal will have no other
-object to take his attention. Turn him loose without bridle or halter in
-the enclosure; take your position in the centre, holding in your right
-hand a straight whip nine or ten feet long; you crack the whip as you
-take your position; this alarms the horse and causes him to run into one
-corner of the enclosure; crack it several times that he may learn that
-you do not intend to hurt him; now commence tapping him lightly upon the
-near shoulder, but not to hurt him; if a nervy fellow he is all
-excitement for a few minutes; continue the tapping until he turns his
-head toward you, which he will do in a short time. The moment he turns
-it, however slight it may be, cease the whipping; as soon as he turns it
-away again repeat the tapping with the whip; in a few minutes he again
-turns his head toward you; stop the motion of the whip; as he turns away
-repeat the whip tapping as before; in a very short time he turns around
-so that you can approach him; now gently caress him; move away and again
-approach him; should he turn away repeat the whipping, by this means you
-teach him to come to you on the near side. After he has learned this
-thoroughly, which requires about one week’s training, half an hour each
-day, then proceed in the same manner upon the off side; as soon as he
-obeys the motion of the whip upon this side, take your position behind
-him, and turn him by the motion of the whip to the right or to the left;
-as soon as he performs nicely, put the harness upon him, take the lines
-behind him, and, as you give him the word to go forward, throw the whip
-down by his right side without touching him, at the same time have the
-long web around the near fore foot, and give it to an assistant; you
-want him to stop, give him the word ‘Whoa,’ at the same time your
-assistant pulls up the foot, turn the whip in a horizontal position
-above your head—in this way you teach him that the whip in that position
-means ‘Whoa.’ By repeating these motions, he learns in about four weeks
-to turn to the right whenever the whip is thrown toward the right
-shoulder; to the left when thrown toward the left shoulder; to go ahead
-when thrown down by the right side; and to stop when held in a
-horizontal position. You now want to teach him to back; having
-previously instructed him according to our rule, put the cord, using the
-small loop, in his mouth; take the cord in your hand with the reins,
-pull upon the reins and say ‘Back,’ at the same time keep the whip
-directly over the animal’s back, giving it an upward and downward
-motion, or you may tap him gently upon the back with the whip—this is
-best done in a sulky. If he starts forward, set him back by pulling
-quickly upon the cord; repeat the operation until he will go back by the
-motion of the whip alone. Should he make repeated efforts to go forward,
-bring the whip quickly once or twice down over his nose, he will not
-then repeat the operation very often; with this training, it is
-necessary to use an open bridle, so that the animal will see the motion
-of the whip; you are now prepared to hook him up for the first drive.
-Take an assistant with you; have the foot strap or long web secured upon
-the near fore foot; give it in charge of your assistant; let the lines
-lie over the dash, as a matter of precaution. Now commence operations
-with the whip; if the animal acts promptly, remove the foot web and
-begin again, having the lines over the dash as before; drive the animal
-in this way at least two or three weeks before removing the bit from the
-mouth. Your horse is now safe to drive under the whip.”
-
-The large and noble looking horses which draw the trucks of the safe
-manufacturers in this city, are hitched in single file, only the rear
-one having reins attached. Sometimes six or eight horses will be
-required to draw the ponderous load, and the coolness and dexterity with
-which they wend their way through the confused mass of vehicles in the
-crowded streets is a truly remarkable sight. Without any guidance the
-leader will press onward through the mass, deftly avoiding collisions
-and entanglement. Changes of route, stoppages, etc., are effected by
-such orders as “Whoa,” “Gee,” “Haw,” which the leader promptly and
-intelligently obeys.
-
-
-                         TO CURE BALKY HORSES.
-
-From the number of “infallible recipes” given in the papers for curing
-balky horses we should judge a little light on the subject is called for
-by horsemen. The various remedies which different correspondents
-describe as having proved effective in their own experience would form a
-curious collection, though some of them betray a remarkable lack of real
-knowledge about the matter. One genius has discovered that stuffing a
-horse’s mouth and nostrils with road dust is highly successful. Another
-humane individual deeply deplores the barbarous practice of whacking
-balky horses over the head and legs, and suggests that there should be
-substituted a system of steady, but not very severe, pounding in one
-spot with a “smooth club,” until “the pain grows intolerable and he
-starts nervously forward.” One hero, whose valor deserves to be
-chronicled for the admiration of future ages, thus modestly relates
-_his_ experience with “one of the perverse animals,” as he calls his
-horse:
-
-“The first work I did with him after he came into my possession was to
-draw a load of hay from the meadow. He started a few rods and then stood
-still, and no amount of urging that I could command would induce him to
-budge an inch. I took the pitchfork and sat down on the fore end of the
-load and began to prick him about the root of his tail, inserting the
-tines just through the skin. He kicked, but the load of hay was a
-complete protection. I kept on, moderately and persistently pricking for
-about five minutes, when he started for the barn. He never attempted to
-balk but once after, when the mere sight of the pitchfork was sufficient
-to make him draw.”
-
-In Cecil county, Maryland, a farmer resorted to a rather novel expedient
-for getting some “go” out of a balky horse. Having loaded his wagon
-rather heavily with wheat, the horses were either unable or refused to
-draw it. After trying for some time to put them in motion, he set fire
-to a sheaf of wheat, and applied the flame to one of the horses. The
-horse, not relishing the application, by a well directed kick deposited
-the blazing sheaf in the load of wheat. This becoming ignited, was
-entirely consumed, together with the wagon. One of the horses, also,
-narrowly escaped perishing in the conflagration.
-
-Many of the cases of “balkiness” are nothing but want of power to
-perform the task assigned; a necessary pause from temporary exhaustion.
-A driver who understands his business will give his team a breathing
-spell occasionally while pulling a heavy load. Another thing, if you
-find your team becoming exhausted and about to give out, it is well to
-stop them of your own accord; and it is well, too, to give them a few
-moments rest before encountering a peculiarly difficult part of the
-route.
-
-If you have balky horses, it is your own fault, and not the horse’s, for
-if they do not pull true there is some cause for it, and if you will
-remove the cause the effect will cease. When your horse balks he is
-excited and does not know what you want him to do. For instance, a young
-horse that has never been “set” in a gully with a load before, is
-whipped by his owner or driver because he does not draw the load out.
-The animal is willing to do what he can, but he does not know how to
-draw out the load. He tries and finds that it does not move, not knowing
-that a steadier and stronger pull would do it, and when the lash comes
-down upon him and he hears the yells of his driver he is frightened, and
-jumps and rears through fear rather than ugliness or balkiness. No
-better way could possibly be devised to make a horse balky than to beat
-him under such circumstances. When he gets a little excited, stop him
-five or ten minutes, let him become calm; go to the balky horse, pat him
-and speak gently to him, and as soon as he is over his excitement, he
-will, in nine cases out of ten, pull at the word. After you have gentled
-him a while, and his excitement has cooled down, take him by the bits;
-turn him each way a few minutes as far as you can; gentle him a little;
-unrein him; then step before the balky horse, and let the other start
-first, then you can take them anywhere you wish. A balky horse is always
-high spirited and starts quick; half the pull is out before the other
-starts; by standing before him the other starts first. By close
-application to this rule, you can make any balky horse pull. If a horse
-has been badly spoiled you should hitch him to the empty wagon, and pull
-it around a while on level ground; then put on a little load and
-increase it gradually, caressing as before, and in a short, time you can
-have a good work horse.
-
-You might as well attempt to make a horse move a three story building
-and draw it off, as to get out of a slough with a heavy load, when the
-animal has never been taught by degrees to draw a load out of such
-places. It is true that it is bad policy to unhitch a horse from a load
-under such circumstances, but it is far worse to beat him an hour and
-then have to do it. Our way of teaching colts is as follows: We put on
-light loads, after they are well broken to a harness, and go into bad
-places where it requires hard pulling by degrees; and the animal learns
-how to draw the load out. He reasons as a man does, thus: “I have been
-here before and got out, and I can do it again,” and out he goes. We add
-to the load one or two hundred pounds, and go through the same process,
-then wait a day or two and try him again, taking care that we require
-nothing to be done extra except with a lighter load. This is teaching a
-horse to have confidence in himself, which is the basis of all good
-draught horses.
-
-A Scotch paper describes a curious case of horse management, and though
-the same treatment has been equally successful in other instances we are
-inclined to believe the true secret lies partly in _gentling_ the animal
-while the preparations are being made. The fact related is curious and
-may be useful, so we reproduce it:
-
-“On Saturday last a groom, mounted on a high mettled hunter, entered the
-High street of Coldstream, and, when opposite Sir John Majoribank’s
-monument, the horse began to plunge and rear to a fearful extent,
-swerving to the right and then to the left, but go forward he would not,
-nor could all the exertions of the groom overcome his obstinacy. The
-street was filled with people expecting to see the animal destroy
-himself on the spikes of the iron railing around the monument, when Mr.
-McDougal, saddler, walked up to the groom, and said: ‘I think, my man,
-you are not taking the proper method to make the horse go; allow me to
-show you a trick worth knowing.’ ‘Well,’ says the groom, ‘if you can
-make him go, it’s more than I can;’ when Mr. McDougal took a piece of
-whipcord, which he tied with a firm knot on the end of the animal’s ear,
-which he bent gently down, fastening the end of the string to the check
-buckle of the bridle, which done, he patted the horse’s neck once or
-twice, and said, ‘Now, let me see you go quietly home like a good
-horse,’ and, astonishing to relate, it moved off as gently as if nothing
-had happened. Mr. McDougal says he has seen, in London, horses which no
-manner of force could make go, while this mild treatment was always
-successful.”
-
-
-           HOW TO PREVENT HARNESSED HORSES FROM RUNNING AWAY.
-
-For the following useful suggestion we are indebted to Mr. Robert
-McClure:
-
-“It has often occurred to our mind, on account of the many and
-destructive runaways of horses harnessed to sleighs, that have taken
-place in this city and its neighborhood the present winter, that some
-mode of training might be adopted for family or carriage horses, which
-would entirely prevent or at least mitigate the violence and excitement
-of horses that may take fright. A good plan, based upon our knowledge
-and observation of the excitability and nervous temperament of horses
-disposed to take fright, would be to harness them with strong harness to
-an old but stout carriage a few times before the sleighing season, and
-have them taken slowly out of the city to a country road, not too hard
-for the horses’ feet, and drive them at a full run or gallop for a few
-rods at a time. Repeating this several times during the drive will so
-accustom the horses to the excitement of a run in harness and the rattle
-of a carriage behind them, that it will become familiar, and when
-occasions arise, as they sometime will in all large cities, to start
-them to run, they can be at once brought up and kept under complete
-control. The training to an occasional run has familiarized such horses
-with the excitement; but conversely, once let a team not used to it in
-harness, get a start and run, the excitement every moment becomes
-greater, takes the place of animal instinct, and all control of them is
-lost—till brought up against some obstacle, with a general smash of all
-surroundings, and perhaps the loss of valuable and useful life. Whether
-the horse be hurt or not, they are forever of no value for family
-purposes, and the groom or coachman not unfrequently loses both
-situation and character as a driver. To familiarize your horse to an
-occasional run in harness will do them no harm; and our word for it,
-much good will be done, and safety insured.”
-
-
-                 HOW TO INSTANTLY STOP RUNAWAY HORSES.
-
-When a Canadian family party, traveling in winter over ice covered
-rivers and swamps, is so unlucky as to cross a place where the horse
-sinks, they save him from drowning, and themselves from the danger of
-sharing the same fate, by pulling a rope so arranged that it chokes him.
-The water being thus prevented from entering his gullet or windpipe, he
-floats on the surface, and it only requires a long and firm pull to
-bring him to solid ground, when the rope being relaxed he quickly
-recovers his wind and is ready once more to start on his journey.
-
-Perhaps profiting by this example, a similar means has been adopted with
-success for stopping runaway and subduing infuriated horses whether in
-riding or driving. It consists of a rein composed partly of
-thread-covered cat-gut, and partly of common leather, one end of which
-is attached to the bridle at the top of the horse’s head, while the
-other rests at the pummel of the saddle, or on the coach box, as the
-case may be. Running upon the cat-gut part by means of loops, is a short
-cross piece of cat-gut which rests against the windpipe of the animal,
-ready to be pulled up against it by taking hold of the nearer end of the
-rein. A quick and firm pull, to stop the breathing of the animal, is all
-that is necessary to bring him to an instantaneous pause. He may be in a
-state of panic, running off with the bit between his teeth in spite of
-every ordinary means of checking him: but no sooner does he feel the
-stricture on his breathing than he is conscious of being outwitted and
-nonplussed and becomes instantly as quiet as a lamb; at the same time he
-keeps quite firm upon his legs—the check not being by any means
-calculated to bring him down. On the contrary, from the position in
-which it places the horse, his shoulders being brought up, and being
-pressed back upon his haunches, the check is, indeed, calculated to keep
-him up.
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER III.
-                  ENGLISH SYSTEM OF TRAINING HUNTERS.
-
-
-Owing to difference in customs of the two nations, such horses as the
-English hunters are not the most desirable for use in this country, and
-the system of training adopted to suit the animals to the requirements
-of English gentlemen, are seldom called into requisition here. Still, as
-we desire our work to be as complete as possible, and as the method of
-training is interesting, though it may prove useful to but few of our
-readers, we introduce it. We take this spirited description from “A
-Holiday on Horseback,” from the pen of an English writer whose name is
-not given:
-
-“A light built, gaylooking thoroughbred was passing into a paddock for a
-lesson in jumping over a swivel bush hurdle. Without spur or whip, the
-rider—the horsebreaker’s son—rode the mare steadily at the fence, and
-she went over without touching a top twig, clearing nine yards in the
-leap. ‘The great thing, sir, is to bring them into workmanlike ways; not
-to be fussy and flurried at their fence, so as to take off at the right
-spot.’ Then he went on to inform us that hunters should be carefully
-handled at a very early age, if they are intended to become temperate
-and handy. They may be ridden gently by a light weight with good hands,
-at three years old, over small fences. At four they ought to be shown
-hounds, but they should only be allowed to follow them at a distance,
-after the fences are broken down, for if you put them to large leaps at
-that age they are apt to get alarmed and never make steady fencers
-afterward. Above all things, avoid getting them into boggy ditches, or
-riding them at brooks; but they should be practiced at leaping small
-ditches, if possible, with water in them, the rider facing them at a
-brisk gallop, for this gives a horse confidence and courage. The old
-custom of teaching colts to leap, standing, over a bar is now obsolete,
-and they are taught to become timber jumpers simply by taking timber as
-it comes across the country—the present rate of hounds gives no time for
-standing leaps. The circular bar, however, is not a bad thing if in a
-good place and well managed. Every description of fence that your hunter
-is likely to meet with should be placed within a prescribed circle on
-soft ground, the man who holds him standing on a stage in the center.
-Another man, following the colt with a whip, obliges him to clear his
-fences at a certain pace, and in a very short time a good tempered colt
-will go at his jumps with pleasure.
-
-“Here let me observe—for the conversation had ended—that no matter how
-carefully a hunter may have been trained, until you taste and try him in
-the field, it is hard to say whether the right stuff be in him. The best
-judges are often deceived by outsides and school performances. A few
-general rules may, however, be given, which will be found of certain
-application. In a hilly country, for instance, nothing has a chance
-against a pure thoroughbred. Lengthy horses always make the best
-jumpers, if they have good hind quarters, good loins and good courage.
-Extraordinary things have been done by such horses. In 1829 Dick
-Christian jumped thirty-three feet on King of the Valley; and Captain
-Littler’s horse, Chandler, cleared thirty-nine feet over a brook at
-Leamington. The most dangerous of all horses in the field is a star
-gazer. A hunter should carry his head low, as by so doing he is less
-liable to fall, and gives his rider a firmer seat. All wild horses lower
-their crests in leaping. It is, however, the peculiar excellence of
-going well through dirt which decides the real value of a horse for our
-best hunting counties. To find out this quality he must be ridden fair
-and straight. If he flinch on soft ground he is of no use. No matter how
-wide a horse may be, if he is not deep in the girth he cannot carry
-weight, and is very seldom a good winded horse, even under a light man.
-One of the best things that can be said of a hunter is, that at first
-sight he appears two inches lower than he really is. Short legged horses
-leap better and safer than long legged cattle, and go faster and farther
-under hard riders. Horses with straight hind legs never can have good
-mouths. He should have well placed hind legs with wide hips, well spread
-gaskins, as much as possible of the _vis a lergo_, well knit joints,
-short cannon bone, oblique pasterns and largish feet. The bone of a
-hunter’s hock cannot be too long. These are the points for strength and
-bottom.
-
-“‘Handsome is as handsome does,’ and an old whip once said to a nobleman
-who remarked that his staunch old horse who had carried him through so
-many troubles had an awkward head: ‘Never mind his ’ed, my lord; I ain’t
-a going to ride on his ’ed.’ Indeed, what is called the perfect model
-horse is by no means the best. A horse’s constitution may be too good.
-Horses of a very hard nature, and very closely ribbed up, are large
-feeders, with great barrels, and do not make brilliant hunters. They
-require so much work to keep them in place and wind that their legs
-suffer, and often give way when their constitution is in its prime.
-Horses with moderate carcasses last much longer, and, provided they are
-good feeders, are usually bright and lasting enough, if otherwise well
-shaped. Finally, a hunter should be well seasoned. Few five year old
-horses are fit to carry a gentleman across country; for they cannot be
-sufficiently experienced to take a straight line. About fifteen hands
-two inches is the best hight for a hunter. His action should be smooth,
-or it cannot last. The movement of the fore legs should be round, not
-high; the horse should be quick on his legs as well as fast.”
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER IV.
-         TRICKS OF PERFORMING HORSES, AND HOW THEY ARE TAUGHT.
-
-
-Horses may be taught many amusing tricks, some of which are really
-wonderful. For teaching horses tricks the implements known as the Rarey
-straps are requisite, to teach the animal to lie down, etc. The piebald
-or spotted horses are generally supposed by trainers to be more
-tractable as well as to possess more talent than others.
-
-
-                       THE SHORT AND LONG STRAPS.
-
-A common breaching strap is used to strap up the foot. For using, open
-the loop, keeping the buckle on the outside, put the loop over foot,
-then raise foot and pass the strap around the fore-arm from the inside,
-and buckle it tight; this holds the foot up firmly. The _long_ strap is
-the one which buckles around the foot. To a ring in this is buckled
-another strap seven or eight feet long. This is attached to the right
-foot and passes under the girth, or over the back. Its use is to raise
-the foot when you wish to bring the horse upon his knees.
-
-[Illustration: THE SHORT AND THE LONG STRAPS.]
-
-[Illustration: THE SHORT STRAP IN USE.]
-
-[Illustration: TEACHING THE HORSE TO LIE DOWN.]
-
-[Illustration: THE APPLICATION OF BOTH STRAPS.]
-
-Bend his left fore leg and slip a loop over it, so that he cannot get it
-down. Then put a surcingle around his body, and fasten one end of the
-long strap around the other fore leg, just above the hoof. Place the
-other end under the surcingle, so as to keep the strap in the right
-direction; take a short hold of it with your right hand; stand on the
-left side of the horse, grasp the bit in your left hand, pull steadily
-on the strap with your right; bear against his shoulder till you cause
-him to move. As soon as he lifts his weight, your pulling will raise the
-other foot, and he will come on his knees. Keep the strap tight in your
-hand, so that he cannot straighten his leg if he rises up. Hold him in
-this position, and turn his head toward you; bear against his side with
-your shoulder, not hard, but with a steady, equal pressure, and in about
-ten minutes he will lie down. As soon as he lies down he will be
-completely conquered, and you can handle him as you please. Take off the
-straps, and straighten out his legs; rub him lightly about the face and
-neck with your hand the way the hair lies; handle all his legs, and
-after he has lain ten or twenty minutes, let him get up again. After
-resting him a short time, make him lie down as before. Repeat the
-operation three or four times, which will be sufficient for one lesson.
-Give him two lessons a day, and when you have given him four lessons, he
-will lie down on your taking hold of one foot. As soon as he is well
-broken to lie down in this way, tap him on the opposite leg with a whip
-when you take hold of his foot, and in a few days he will lie down from
-the mere motion of the whip.
-
-[Illustration: BRINGING THE HORSE TO HIS KNEES.]
-
-[Illustration: PREPARING TO LIE DOWN.]
-
-Use great gentleness during the operation. Compel the horse to comply
-with your wishes, but do not frighten or excite him.
-
-[Illustration: THE HORSE LYING DOWN.]
-
-
-                      TO TEACH A HORSE TO SIT UP.
-
-A common winding-up of the “grand entree” which usually commences the
-performances at most circuses, is for the horses of all the riders to
-lie down at the word of command, and at another command, to sit up on
-their haunches. The lying down part we have already explained; the
-getting up is taught by Jennings as follows:
-
-“Lay the animal down as previously directed, having a collar upon him;
-place a hobble or strap, with a ring in it, around each hind foot; take
-a pair of ordinary driving lines, pass the buckle end through the collar
-back to the ring in the hobble, and buckle them; pull the feet up toward
-the shoulders, and carry the lines back to the hind quarters, hold them
-firmly in one hand, or give them to an assistant. Have a bridle with a
-long rein upon the animal; take the rein in your hand, stand upon the
-tail, and pull upon the bridle rein, keeping the lines firm at the same
-time; this brings him up in front, and prevents his getting his hind
-feet back far enough to rise upon them, they being drawn forward and
-securely held by the lines.”
-
-
-                      KICKING AT WORD OF COMMAND.
-
-Jennings gives the following instructions for teaching horses a very
-common trick performed at circus exhibitions:
-
-“Care must be taken in teaching this trick, that you have a horse not
-predisposed to vicious propensities, or you may make a confirmed kicker;
-and then you will have the habit to break-up. A horse of a mild
-disposition may be taught to perform thus without the risk of his
-becoming a kicker. I have taught one of my ponies to kick when I desire
-him to do so, and he cannot be made to kick unless the whip is used
-lightly upon his hind parts. Having selected your animal, take a pin in
-your right hand, prick the near hind leg with it and say, ‘Kick with the
-left foot;’ the animal soon learns to obey. Then proceed with the
-opposite leg in the same manner. After the horse will kick, with either
-foot, by a motion of the hand without pricking him you will stand off a
-short distance, with a long whip in your hand; touch the near hind foot
-and say, ‘Kick with the left foot;’ then proceed in the same manner with
-the right foot. By proceeding thus once a day the animal will soon learn
-to do his part very nicely.”
-
-
-                            TALKING HORSES.
-
-If neatly managed one of the most “taking” performances of the “arena”
-is the answering of questions by the horse. Yankee Robinson has a very
-fine animal, who replies to his master’s interrogations with much
-_seeming_ judiciousness. Horses may be taught to shake and nod their
-heads as negative or affirmative replies, in either of two ways. The
-first method of training is this: Take your position at the horse’s head
-with a pin in your hand. Gently prick the animal’s breast. The horse
-bobs his head, just as he would had a fly alighted on the spot. Repeat
-the operation several times, each time caressing him, and perhaps
-rewarding him with a bit of apple occasionally. He will soon learn to
-nod his head on merely having the hand pointed toward his breast, or he
-may be trained to do the same by a motion of the foot. To teach the
-horse to shake his head it is only necessary to prick him slightly
-anywhere along the mane or over the withers. After a little teaching he
-will do so on your raising your hand to your head, a motion whose
-connection with the horse’s action will scarcely be suspected by the
-audience.
-
-The second method is by pricking his breast at the same moment that you
-say “yes,” or any other particular word; and by pricking his withers at
-the same time you say the word “no.” He will soon learn to make the
-desired motion on hearing the word, even though no motion whatever is
-made. When exhibiting, the questions should be asked first, and
-immediately after the signal given to the horse. He, of course, knows
-nothing of the question, but obeys a definite command, just as he would
-if ordered to “back” or “whoa.”
-
-Madame Tournaire, who performed her horse by the first method, had a way
-of coquettishly toying with her whip, and would give the horse the
-requisite signals by what the public imagined to be a mere display of
-feminine grace.
-
-Where the horse obeys a _word_, that word must be incorporated into the
-question asked, in such a way as to attract his attention. If used too
-near the commencement of the sentence he will reply before the question
-is out of your mouth. It is not necessary to use the _exact_ word that
-he “works” by, provided it sounds to him like it; thus, Yankee Robinson
-says to his horse during the performance, “I guess you’re as handsome a
-fellow as these ladies and gentlemen ever saw—don’t you _guess_ so?” The
-horse nods his head at the emphasized word “guess,” supposing it to be
-his command “yes.” The next question, perhaps, is, “But others _know_
-the most?” In this case the horse, not being posted on Webster, and
-being guided by the sound, gives his head a negative shake, considering
-“no” and “know” synonymous.
-
-[Illustration: PERFORMING PONIES.]
-
-
-                        TEACHING HORSES TO JUMP.
-
-Colts should not be trained in jumping until at least four years old.
-Until this age the muscles and sinews are too pliable, and there is
-danger of the animal being strained. It is better never to urge a horse
-to attempt a leap which he cannot readily accomplish, for severe injury
-might result from his striking his feet, besides any failure to perform
-the leap will discourage him.
-
-The bar should at first be placed very low and only raised very
-gradually. About knee high or less will do to commence with. Commence
-the instructions by letting one man lead the colt, while another man
-follows with a whip. The former walks over the bar encouraging the colt
-with his voice to follow. The man with the whip is only to prevent the
-horse backing, the whip should never be applied unless the animal is
-positively restive. With a little coaxing he will soon go over, and
-having once done so, he will readily repeat it. A few pieces of apple
-may be advantageously used to induce him to leap the bar, and to reward
-him for doing so. By using the word “hip” or any other as he jumps, he
-may be taught to make the leap on hearing it. This is the common method
-for horses in the ring.
-
-The first lesson should be confined to the standing or walking leap, and
-if the horse is led half a dozen times over in the manner described this
-will suffice for the first day. The next day he may be trotted up to it,
-or more lessons may be devoted to teaching him to leap at command. With
-each succeeding lesson the bar may be raised until it is as high as the
-horse’s breast, but beyond this there is no necessity with common
-animals intended merely for private riding. Neither should the horse be
-wearied and disgusted with too long lessons. When perfect in his lessons
-a boy may be placed upon his back to ride him over. The boy must be a
-good rider, for should the horse stop suddenly at the bar and throw his
-rider the maneuver will be repeated. A sack containing a couple of
-bushels of corn is sometimes used instead of the boy, but the boy is
-better.
-
-
-                      TO MAKE A HORSE STAND ERECT.
-
-[Illustration: STANDING ERECT.]
-
-To make a horse stand upon his hind feet it is only necessary to compel
-him to rear up, and then to keep him in that position by gently striking
-him with the whip either under the fore-arm or under the chin. At first
-it will be necessary to allow him to resume his natural position after
-standing erect for a moment or two, but in a little while he will learn
-to keep his balance for a considerable time. Care should be taken not to
-excite or keep him in the erect position too long at first. There is
-also some danger of his falling over backward if too urgently pressed.
-Ponies may be placed upon their hind feet by lifting them up by the
-reins, taking hold under the chin close to the bit. By giving the
-command, “Erect up,” when teaching the animal to take the required
-position, he may be taught to do so at this command, or he will soon
-learn to stand up by merely being tapped lightly under the chin. Now
-give him a few pieces of apple, and by holding out pieces of apple or
-other “horse” dainties, you may teach him to follow you walking erect.
-
-
-                            TO “PIROUETTE.”
-
-“Pirouetting” consists merely in the horse turning around while standing
-erect upon his hind feet. He may be taught to do this very easily,
-either by coaxing him to turn by the use of pieces of apple, or by
-gentle taps upon the cheek. He soon learns to turn at a circular sweep
-of the whip or at the command to “Pirouette.” This action is the same as
-is made use of when a horse is supposed to “waltz.”
-
-
-                             THE PEDESTAL.
-
-[Illustration: PEDESTAL TRICK.]
-
-One of the most common tricks displayed in circuses, and one which is
-usually hailed with applause, is what is termed the “pedestal” trick. A
-stout platform is used, to which is attached a wooden “drum” some two
-feet in hight, out of which projects a wooden rod or post at a slight
-angle. The horse first steps upon the platform, then places one fore
-foot upon the drum, and lastly places his other fore foot upon the point
-of the projecting post. In this position a handsome animal forms a
-really beautiful picture, and the effect is sometimes enhanced by having
-a number of men raise the platform upon their shoulders, and bear the
-horse, high up above the heads of the spectators, like some equestrian
-statue, around the ring.
-
-To teach this trick some patience is necessary but the method is quite
-simple. The horse is first led upon the platform several times, being
-allowed to remain a moment or more each time. He will soon understand
-when brought into the vicinity of the platform that he is to take his
-position upon it. Now compel him to raise his foot, and as he attempts
-to put it down again, guide it with your hand to the required position
-upon the drum. After a few times he will place it upon the drum of his
-own accord on being made to raise it. Then in the same manner make him
-raise the other foot and place it upon the post. This is the most
-difficult part of the performance on account of the post presenting only
-a slight foothold, and the horse having only limited power to guide his
-foot to this position; it is also quite difficult to make the hoof
-retain its hold even after the right position is gained. After the horse
-thoroughly understands what is wanted of him he will go through the
-performance without prompting, for the sight of the platform suggests to
-him the desired actions. The “carrying around” part is, of course,
-strictly a ring performance which few persons would care to undertake
-for private amusement, but if the horse is gentle and has been taught to
-have entire confidence in his master, and to obey him implicitly, there
-is little difficulty in this part of the exhibition if done with care.
-
-
-                       TO TEACH A HORSE TO KISS.
-
-Give the horse a few pieces of apple from your hand, then place a piece
-between your teeth, letting it project so that the horse can readily
-seize it. When he has become used to taking the apple in this way, say,
-“Kiss,” or “Kiss me,” to him each time before putting the apple in your
-mouth, and he will by and by put his mouth to your lips at this command.
-In every case he should be rewarded by a piece of apple, for, to him,
-“kiss me” means apple, and if he is deceived in getting it he will not
-so readily obey.
-
-
-                    TO MAKE A HORSE FETCH AND CARRY.
-
-For this purpose a small basket or some light article which he can
-easily seize with his mouth, should be used. Place the handle in his
-mouth and shut his mouth upon it. Should he drop it when you remove your
-hand, speak sharply to him, and replace it in his mouth. When he retains
-it you are to let it remain a few moments, then remove it, pat him,
-speak encouragingly to him, and reward him. In a short time offer it to
-him again saying, “Take it,” and he will probably do so; if not place it
-his mouth and repeat the course already described. When he has learned
-to take the basket on its being offered, let him follow you around with
-it in his mouth; then let some one else give it to him while you stand
-at a distance; now call him toward you and reward him for bringing it to
-you. He will thus learn in a short time to bring you any article given
-him. After this, place the basket upon the ground, call his attention to
-it, order him to “take it,” and he probably will obey, if not, place it
-in his mouth and repeat the instruction until he will pick it up from
-the ground. Then a handkerchief or other article may be substituted for
-the basket, which articles he will soon understand are to be picked up
-also. He will soon learn to pick up anything you may drop in his
-presence, or to seize hold of any article that may be offered him, and
-this latter act may be applied to many tricks, as hereafter described.
-
-
-                     FINDING A HIDDEN HANDKERCHIEF.
-
-Having taught the horse to pick up any article dropped in his presence,
-take a handkerchief and cover it partially with loose earth, leaving it
-sufficiently exposed for him to readily seize it. Repeat the operation,
-each time covering the handkerchief more and more completely until it is
-entirely concealed. He will by this means be led to look for it even
-when it is entirely covered up. An assistant may now hold his hands over
-the horse’s eyes while the handkerchief is being concealed. Before an
-audience this adds to the credit of the performance, but as the
-handkerchief is hidden in nearly the same place, the horse knows where
-to look for it and will soon unearth it. Even when hidden at the option
-of the spectator it is easy to indicate to the horse where to look, by a
-signal, or his sense of smell will lead him to the spot. Oil of rhodium
-is said by some to be employed in this trick, to guide the animal to the
-hidden article. This may be true in some cases but the horse can so
-easily be taught to accomplish the thing desired without its use that we
-doubt its being used to any considerable extent.
-
-Another plan adopted for teaching this trick is the following: Spread on
-the sawdust a white cloth containing a liberal supply of oats, lead the
-animal around the ring and let him take some of the oats. This is lesson
-first; its object being to fix in the horse’s mind a connection between
-the cloth and the oats. The march around the circle being once or twice
-repeated, he stops at the handkerchief as a matter of course. By dint of
-practice, say in a couple of weeks, he will learn to stop as readily in
-a trot or a gallop as in a walk. After a time the handkerchief must be
-doubled over and tied in a knot; the animal shakes it to get at the
-grain, but not succeeding, lifts it from the ground, which is just the
-thing wanted. When the horse has done this a few times, and finds that
-though he can shake nothing out he will receive a handful of oats as a
-reward, he may be trusted to perform in public.
-
-
-                        TO SELECT A CHOSEN CARD.
-
-In performing this trick in public one of the audience is allowed to
-choose a card from the pack, and this card, with several others is
-thrown on the ground. The horse is then asked by his master to select
-the chosen card from among them, and to give it to the person who chose
-it. This sounds like quite a difficult feat, especially, as is usually
-the case, if he has had his eyes blindfolded while the selection of the
-card was being made.
-
-Having taught the horse to find and pick up the handkerchief it is very
-easy to substitute any other article in its place. If a card should be
-substituted it would be picked up just as anything else would be. The
-main difficulty is to teach the horse to pick the one desired from among
-the others, and that one only. To do this, spread half a dozen cards
-upon the ground at intervals of about ten feet. Let the horse go to one
-end of this line of cards. He will naturally stop at the first one he
-comes to, and, if left to himself, will pick it up. Instead of allowing
-him to do this, start him ahead with the voice using the term “Get up,”
-or any other which he has been taught means “go ahead.” Do this until he
-reaches the card which you desire him to pick up, at this you must
-remain silent unless he is about to pass it by like the former ones, in
-which case you say “Whoa,” and keep him standing before it until he
-picks it up. When he does this, reward him and speak encouragingly to
-him, that he may know he has done what you wished. If you make a
-practice of speaking to him when he stops at the wrong cards, and of
-keeping silent when he reaches the right one he will soon come to
-understand that “silence gives consent,” and that _that_ is the proper
-card to select. The order in which the chosen card is placed in the row
-should be varied so that the horse may not learn to select the card by
-its _position_ instead of obeying your signal. This enables you to let
-your auditors place the cards in any position or order their fancy may
-dictate without interfering at all with the successful “working” of the
-horse.
-
-After he has learned to select the desired card without hesitation, he
-must be so taught that he will hand it to the person who may have
-selected it, when he comes to perform in public. To teach him this, have
-an assistant stationed at some distance from you, and when the horse
-comes to you with the card, instead of taking it from him as you have
-been accustomed to do, turn his head in the direction of your assistant
-and start him up. He will go to the assistant if the latter holds out
-his hand, and, perhaps, whistles to him. Pretty soon the whistling may
-be dispensed with, and he will carry the card in any direction indicated
-in search of some one to receive it. When he comes to perform in the
-ring he will go around the edge looking for somebody to whom he may
-relinquish the card. The proper person will probably hold out his hand
-to take it, but a hundred others will quite as certainly do the same
-thing. Now if the horse selects the right person in spite of the other
-claimants to lead him astray, a round of applause is pretty sure to
-crown his success. To insure this he should be taught to relinquish the
-card at some particular signal given by the trainer. A cough will
-answer, or any _word_ which can be incorporated into a sentence
-addressed to him, without being detected by the audience. We have given
-sufficient instruction on this point in preceding pages, we believe, to
-enable the trainer to use his own discretion as to the manner of
-associating the signal with the giving-up of the card, in the horse’s
-mind.
-
-
-                         TO FIRE OFF A PISTOL.
-
-[Illustration: FIRING OFF THE PISTOL.]
-
-In performing this trick the pistol (unloaded) should be firmly secured
-to a post or some other convenient support, as high as the horse can
-conveniently reach. To the trigger attach a small wisp of hay by a
-string, so arranged that by pulling at the hay the pistol will go off.
-Lead the horse up to this, that the savory morsel may attract his
-attention. He will probably pull at the hay, and in his efforts to get
-it, will pull the trigger. Let him eat the hay, and repeat the operation
-several times, patting and speaking kindly to him each time. Now attach
-a piece of rag to the trigger instead of the hay; show it to him and
-induce him to take hold of it. Every time he pulls at it, and makes the
-hammer click, reward him with a piece of apple. When he has become used
-to pulling the rag when it is shown him, the pistol may be capped. The
-explosion of the cap may startle him somewhat at first; but gentle
-treatment and a little encouragement will soon banish his fears,
-especially if the noise of the explosion be only slight, which would be
-desirable. When he will snap caps without hesitation a small charge of
-powder may be tried. A heavy charge only makes a nuisance of the trick,
-and should only be used when displaying before an audience; even then
-the desirableness of such a proceeding is very questionable.
-
-
-                       TO TEACH A HORSE TO DANCE.
-
-A horse may be taught to dance thus: Fasten the animal with two
-side-reins between the posts supporting the leaping bar. Take a whip,
-and, as the music plays, gently touch him with it, using the “jik, jik,”
-of the groom as you go on. The horse being tied to the posts can move
-neither backward nor forward, but he will be induced to lift his legs
-and thereby gain the rudimentary movement of his lesson. After a while
-the teacher must mount on his back; the horse being fastened by the side
-reins. Just when he is to raise his leg, a gentle pull must be given to
-the rein at the proper side to help the movement. In course of time the
-reins must be loosened, and the horse, if tolerably ready, will soon
-learn to mark time, quick or slow, in answer merely to a slight jerk of
-the bridle. The rider must then dismount, and coming before the horse,
-teach him to dance, or keep time, with a wave of the hand, or by a pat
-on the foot which he is wanted to lift.
-
-It may be remarked here that, though the dancing horses at the circuses
-appear to keep time with the music of the band, it is really, in most
-cases, the band that accommodates its music to the movements of the
-horse.
-
-
-                            TO EAT AT TABLE.
-
-An amusing scene often enacted in the ring is to have a horse seated on
-his haunches before a table, while the clown obsequiously serves him. A
-bell is attached to the table, so arranged that the horse can ring it by
-pulling at a bit of rag, and as the horse is almost continually ringing
-the bell, and the clown makes apparently frantic efforts to answer this
-summons each time, while bringing in plates, etc., a vast amount of
-laughter is usually created. The same instructions which we have given
-in previous pages relative to sitting down, firing off the pistol, etc.,
-will apply to this trick. It is usual, when the table is finally set,
-for the clown to seat himself opposite the horse and pretend to share
-his meal. As the food commonly consists of hay pies, with brown paper
-crusts, the actual eating, we presume, is generally confined to the
-horse, but the fun is much increased by the clown taking a huge mouthful
-of hay, as though intensely hungry, and the horse then snatching it from
-his mouth, and devouring it himself. This latter feat is a mere
-modification of the kissing trick, where he takes the piece of apple
-from the trainer’s mouth.
-
-[Illustration: AN EQUESTRIAN EPICURE.]
-
-
-                         TO TURN A HAND ORGAN.
-
-This feat may be easily accomplished by the application of the plan
-already described, which we may term the “pistol principle.” After the
-horse has learned to take hold readily of anything offered to him, which
-knowledge he will have acquired if he has already learned to perform the
-tricks heretofore mentioned, the only additional instruction necessary
-will be to initiate him into the mysteries of _turning_ the handle. When
-he has taken hold of the handle, gently move his head so as to produce
-the desired motion. If, when you let go of his head, he ceases the
-motion, speak sharply to him and put his head again in motion. With
-almost any horse a few lessons, and judicious rewards when he does what
-is required, will accomplish the object, and he will soon both be able
-and willing to grind out Old Dog Tray, or Norma, if not in exact time at
-least with as much correctness as many performers on this instrument.
-Some time since there was a horse connected with Franconi’s circus in
-Paris, whose education had progressed finely until the organ was
-reached, as it was in due course of time; this appeared to be the
-stumbling block in his progress.
-
-[Illustration: THE HAND ORGAN PERFORMANCE.]
-
-It seems that the horse in question had already, under the lessons of
-his master, developed an unusual degree of intelligence, his eyes in
-particular becoming so full of expression that one could hardly doubt
-that he understood very much of what was said to him. His master had
-great hopes of him; he had been in training only a year, and he had
-already learned to lie down and get up as ordered, to enact the dead
-horse, to fire a pistol, and to give whichever of his fore hoofs was
-asked for. At length the professor began the task of teaching this
-promising pupil to turn a barrel organ; but either this particular
-species of exercise was repugnant to his tastes, or the sound of the
-organ was disagreeable to his ears. Certain it was that the animal,
-usually so docile, was resolute in his refusal to touch the handle of
-the barrel organ. His preceptor labored at this point for a month
-without being able to vanquish the repugnance of the horse for the
-object so constantly presented to his attention. Coaxing, caresses, and
-the whip were employed in turn, and equally without success. On these
-occasions the horse’s eyes expressed as clearly as though he had spoken
-it in so many words the absolute determination not to touch the handle
-of the organ. The trainer, though naturally of a violent temper, was
-always patient and gentle with his equine pupil. Whenever he felt that
-the obstinacy of the horse was on the point of getting the better of his
-apparent calmness, he would leave the stable to give vent to his
-irritation out of the sight or hearing of the animal. To those who
-prophesied that the horse would never turn the handle of the organ, he
-replied, “He shall turn or die.” At length, perceiving that he made no
-progress in the work of vanquishing the animal’s obstinacy, he caused
-the windows of the stable to be stuffed with hay and then boarded over,
-so that not a ray of light was visible, and a couple of men, hired for
-the purpose, beat a drum incessantly beside the animal’s stall,
-relieving one another at stated intervals. The struggle was continued
-for four days and nights, during which the professor returned to the
-charge once every hour, presenting the handle of the organ to his
-refractory pupil, renewing his command to the latter to take hold of it.
-
-The neighborhood was beginning to threaten the trainer with a summons
-before the police court, to answer to the charge of disturbing its
-slumbers with the perpetual beating of the horrible drum, which the
-unfortunate horse, comprehending at last that there was no other chance
-of deliverance left to him, suddenly seized the handle of the organ with
-his teeth and turned with all the little strength that was left to him.
-Daylight was at once restored to the stable, the drummers were
-dismissed, all possible caresses and the finest oats were lavished on
-the now docile scholar, who never forgot the terrible lesson of his four
-days struggle, but, whatever may have been the sentiments with which he
-regarded the operation, never failed vigorously to turn the handle of
-the barrel organ whenever the word of command was given.
-
-
-                           TO FEIGN LAMENESS.
-
-To teach a horse this trick requires a greater decree of labor and
-perseverance than is necessary to instruct him in almost any other. So
-wearisome is the task, and so long is the time required in its
-accomplishment, that in ordinary cases it is not worth attempting. We
-propose, however, in this little work to tell all that there is to be
-told about our subject, even though most of our readers should find many
-things impracticable in their own cases; and it is well worth while to
-explain all these matters though it be only to gratify the curiosity
-which is very naturally felt. An uninitiated person would probably be
-entirely at a loss how to set about accomplishing this feat, and it is
-doubtful whether he would succeed in discovering the secret of it
-without assistance. The mystery is not such a very great matter after
-all, and may be disclosed in a few words.
-
-If you observe a really lame horse—if you haven’t any in your
-neighborhood just visit New York and you will find some beautiful
-specimens of the article—you will perceive that there is a constant
-jerking or bobbing of his head, caused by his lowering it as he treads
-upon the lame foot and raising it as he raises the foot again. Now the
-_appearance_ of lameness is caused just as much by the motion of the
-head as anything else, and a really sound horse, if he bobbed his head
-as he lowered and raised a particular foot, would appear lame; in fact
-he would actually go lame with this foot because the motion of his head
-would compel him to tread more lightly on that than he did on the
-others, exactly as in the case of the bona fide lameness. This is the
-secret, and the trainer’s efforts are directed to producing this motion
-of the head. To make a horse bob his head is a trifling matter, but to
-make him do so every time he treads on one particular foot, and to do so
-at the right moment, without hesitation or mistake, requires many weary
-lessons, and a stock of patience equal to that popularly supposed to
-have been possessed by the ancient Job.
-
-Commence by taking the horse by the bridle, close to his mouth, and
-walking him very slowly. Watch the foot with which you desire him to go
-lame, and each time that it comes that foot’s turn to step, press the
-horse’s head gently upward as he raises his foot, and downward as he
-again places it on the ground. Let your motions be simultaneous with the
-movement of the foot, proceeding so slowly that there is no danger of
-becoming confused. By-and-by you may release your hold of the bridle and
-make the motion with your hand, which he will soon obey. You may then
-accompany the motion by any sound or word of command, and he will learn
-finally to make the motion on hearing this sound.
-
-A correspondent of an English journal lately described a pony in his
-possession who in some way had picked up a knowledge of this trick and
-applied it very acutely to his own advantage. The gentleman thus
-describes the proceedings of the animal: “Whenever the pony had been
-turned out to graze and was afterward brought up to be hitched into the
-carriage, it invariably turned lame after going a few yards—so lame in
-fact that I frequently turned back, being ashamed to drive an animal in
-such apparent pain; I say apparent, because no sooner had the pony been
-relieved of its harness than it used to canter around. The same pony
-when brought from the stable would go perfectly well as long as it
-wished, but when I drove it in any direction contrary to its inclination
-it became lame immediately; as soon as its head was turned homeward the
-lameness entirely disappeared.”
-
-
-                   TO TEACH A HORSE TO WALK OVER YOU.
-
-This trick is sometimes exhibited by persons desirous of displaying
-either their own courage or the docility of their horses. There is a
-natural aversion felt by horses, and indeed by most animals, to treading
-on a living object. Few horses will, of their own accord, unless they
-are under excitement, trample upon a child who may chance to be in the
-way. Many instances are related of horses lifting infants from their
-pathway and gently putting them down on one side, where they were out of
-danger. It is therefore pretty safe to allow your horse to step over
-you, while you lie upon the ground. To insure against accidents,
-however, a little preliminary training is advisable. First, let an
-assistant lead the horse over your legs while you are seated upon the
-ground with those members extended. Then, after a few repetitions, lie
-down at full length and let the assistant lead the horse over you in
-various directions. Very soon the horse may be entrusted to walk over
-you, merely guided by the snapping of your fingers in the direction you
-desire him to go.
-
-
-                        ORDINARY CIRCUS HORSES.
-
-The common horses ridden by circus performers require some training
-before they are available in the “circle,” though it is slight compared
-with the instructions of the “trick” horses. The main thing is to break
-them to trot evenly and steadily around the ring. They may be taught
-this in an open field by attaching a line to the nose piece of the
-halter, which line the trainer holds in his left hand while in his right
-he has a long whip. Starting the horse, the trainer turns slowly as the
-horse goes around; the line keeps the horse from going away from the
-trainer in any direction and so forces him to go in a circle; the whip
-is used to keep him at the proper distance from the man, and so preserve
-always the same sized circle. The whip should be held on a level with
-the horse’s shoulder and should be moved so as to accompany him around.
-Subsequently the line may be removed and the horse will still follow the
-circle pointed out by the whip, and increase or abate his speed to
-correspond with its movements. The horse is then ready for the
-rehearsals of the rider, and soon learns to preserve his pace unbroken,
-regardless of the movements of the man upon his back.
-
-[Illustration: BREAKING HORSE FOR THE “CIRCLE.”]
-
-
-
-
-                               CHAPTER V.
-                 THEATRICAL HORSES AND THE HORSE DRAMA.
-
-
-The exact date at which horses were introduced upon the stage we are
-unable to state. It is the custom with many writers to trace everything
-back to the ancient Greeks or Romans and build up their subject from
-this classic foundation; perhaps we might be able to do likewise were we
-to try, but we prefer to be excused. Certain it is that for many years
-such dramas as Mazeppa, Herne the Hunter, Putnam, and others of a
-certain kind have maintained a steady popularity. At first the
-characters of the heroes in these pieces were performed by males, and
-their popularity depended upon the beauty and spirit of the horse, the
-daring of the rider, and the general excellence of the drama—combats,
-processions, and startling effects being always taking ingredients.
-By-and-by, however, an adventurous rider of the other sex entered the
-lists in competition with the gentlemen. Her success inspired others to
-follow her example, until a dozen or more actresses were found
-performing the various rôles of the “horse drama.”
-
-In all these pieces the principal attraction, next to the lady rider, is
-the performance of the horse, which, with very little variation, is
-generally the same in all. At the back of the stage, crossing and
-re-crossing it, and rising higher and higher at quite a steep
-inclination, is a plank gangway, some two or three feet wide. This is
-technically termed the “run,” and is supported by stout scaffolding,
-which is hidden by the scenery. At each turn, which is concealed by the
-“wings,” is a sort of platform to enable the horse to turn and to get a
-fair position for making the next rush across. The scenery is usually
-painted to represent mountains, and the canvas which conceals the run is
-painted to resemble rocks. Ravines and other results of the skillful
-scene painter’s talents often add to the seeming danger of the pass.
-Usually a series of different plays are produced during the engagement
-of the horse and rider, and the same run serves to represent the
-mountains of Tartary in Mazeppa, the Yankee hills in Putnam, or the
-natural elevations of any other portion of the world in which the scenes
-of any particular play may chance to be located. At the proper moment
-the horse dashes over precipices, rushing torrents, or fearful mountain
-gorges, (all canvas of course), with his rider astride his back, or
-strapped upon the “untamed steed,” as the stage business may require. To
-enable the horse to climb or descend the run without slipping, small
-pieces of sharpened steel are screwed into his shoes previous to his
-coming upon the stage. When it is a man who is strapped upon the horse
-he is usually merely secured by the waist, he holding the girth firmly
-with his hands. When a woman performs the part it is customary to secure
-her ankles as well, mainly for the purpose of keeping her _on top_ of
-the horse should he by any accident fall. In playing Mazeppa the rider
-is utterly helpless, and without this precaution serious and even fatal
-injuries might be received. The gentlemen consider their muscle
-sufficient to enable them to dispense with this care. Some years ago a
-popular equestrian actress while performing in a western city met with a
-fearful accident from having one of her feet free in order that she
-might tickle the horse with her spur, to make him prance and curvette
-before the audience. On leaving the stage the horse stumbled over some
-stray scenery or other obstacle, and fell. Had the rider been lashed
-according to custom on _top_ of the horse the only danger would have
-been the risk of striking against some projection, for the horse could
-not fall upon his back. As it was, her leg slipped under the horse as he
-fell, and his weight coming suddenly upon it, the thigh was broken. It
-is said that as she was conveyed to the boat the horse followed with
-every appearance of sorrow, whinnying softly, as though striving to
-express his sympathy. Many months after the accident, when the rider
-mounted him for practice previous to resuming her profession, an
-eye-witness related that it was really wonderful to see how gentle were
-all the horse’s movements, and how, of his own accord, he would check
-himself whenever his motion extorted the slightest cry of pain, almost
-suppressed though it was, from his rider.
-
-In these plays very little training is required by the horse. After the
-ordinary breaking he is frequently exercised in going over the run.
-Owing to the restricted space it is very difficult for the horse to
-display any degree of speed, and as this is the main thing to be
-accomplished, he is therefore taught to start _instantly_ at a rate
-which an ordinary horse could not by any means attain within the
-prescribed limits. We have seen Mazeppa played where the stage was so
-small that while the horse’s tail was against the wall of the theater
-his nose was barely prevented protruding beyond the scenes, previous to
-his starting to rush before the audience, from an imaginary journey of
-some score of miles. When he _did_ come before the public it was
-difficult for them to see the whole of him at one time even with the
-scenes run back as far as possible. How the poor animal managed to
-travel over the diminutive run which was provided we cannot imagine, and
-yet the sight from the body of the theater was quite respectable.
-
-After ascending the run the horse and rider must remain high up in the
-lofty region of the “floats” until a change of scene permits them to
-descend unobserved, or the play requires their descent in public. A
-perilous, and consequently attractive, feat has been introduced into
-this play by one or two unusually reckless and daring riders, consisting
-of an extension of the run around the gallery of the theatre. Over this
-narrow road above the heads of the spectators, some hundred feet or more
-from the ground, amid the glare or the lights, the banging of the
-orchestra, and the thunders of the multitude, dashes the horse, bearing
-in triumph “the sensation rider of the world.” A single misstep, the
-displacement of a single plank in that frail support, and horse and
-rider would lie a mangled mass below. And this is the very reason the
-house is jammed with eager throngs—not that they wish the rider to meet
-the horrible death thus courted night after night, but it is certainly
-this _possibility_ which renders the performance so attractive. Playing
-Mazeppa is not always the hight of felicity.
-
-There is a story told of a horse who probably never had the honor of
-figuring on either posters or play bills, which we think may be
-appropriately recorded here. A traveler on a dark night presented
-himself at the door of a country inn, and demanded lodging. The
-landlord, after some general remarks, suddenly turned pale and asked his
-guest by what road he had come. Upon being informed he almost fainted
-with terror. On examination in the morning it was found that the horse
-ridden by the traveler had walked with safety the string piece of a long
-bridge, and maintained his footing on the single extended timber,
-scarcely a foot wide. The planks of the bridge had been torn up for
-repairs the day previous; a misstep of the sure footed animal would have
-precipitated himself and rider into a chasm a hundred feet below.
-
-In Mazeppa and similar plays the horse is “worked” by his trainer or
-master who comes on the stage attired as one of the retinue or
-attendants. In other pieces the rider himself manages the horse. These
-horses are seldom used for any other purpose, as ordinary riding or
-driving would make their mouths hard and render them less easily
-controlled upon the stage. In the summer their shoes are taken off and
-they are allowed a holiday in the country pastures. Mr. Collins, an
-actor of considerable celebrity who played successfully all the range of
-equestrian characters, and who trained several of the most popular
-“star” horses, had a magnificent stallion of large size which was
-probably the handsomest horse in the profession. He was a trifle too
-large to display his speed to the best advantage in the theater, but on
-the road, where Mr. C. occasionally displayed his points, there were few
-animals who could contest the palm with him for speed. He was a fiery
-fellow, and if annoyed would bite his tormentor fiercely, and few cared
-to excite his anger. This was made a “point” of on the stage, Mr. C.
-plaguing him a little unnoticed by the public, and the spirit the horse
-displayed always “took” with the audience. Mr. C., however, found it
-necessary to keep out of reach of the animal’s teeth, or even _his_
-influence over the horse might not have preserved him from an
-uncomfortable nip.
-
-Years ago when horse dramas reigned in the Broadway theaters, as well as
-in the less aristocratic locality of the Bowery, an enterprising manager
-determined to bring out Herne the Hunter, “in the highest style of the
-art.” A number of horses, circus men and innumerable supernumeraries
-were engaged, and the piece produced under the most _horse-piece-cious_
-circumstances. The eventful night arrived, the house was crammed. The
-play progressed, people came on and off the stage, talked, raced,
-shouted, went through traps, climbed canvas rocks, and indulged in all
-the customary motions of a grand “spectacle.” There has always been a
-natural feud between actors and circus folks. The ring people despise
-those who can only “cackle,” (flash term for talk), while the stage
-fellows say that folks who travel on their shape, and have no brains to
-back them up, are contemptible. In those days there was even less good
-feeling between the two professions than at present. The supes aspiring
-to the dignity of “the stage” were more intense in their antipathy to
-the riders than were the actors themselves, and being always ready for a
-lark, some of them procured a lot of a peculiar kind of tinder which is
-readily lighted and could be surreptitiously blown into a horse’s
-nostrils without the culprit being detected. Suddenly in the midst of
-the performance the horses became restive, and in a moment became
-unmanageable. Some reared and kicked, some broke through the stage,
-while others, trampling the foot lights under foot, plunged into the
-orchestra. All was confusion. An actor advances to the foot lights and
-assures the audience that they need feel no alarm—nothing of importance
-is amiss—it is “all right.” At this very moment two horses are murdering
-their riders in the orchestra. One of the men, literally impaled upon
-the spikes around the railing, presents a sickening, horrifying,
-spectacle as he writhes in his death agony. Of course the play was not
-concluded; the audience departed shocked at the awful sight they had
-witnessed, and the supes, who had intended no farther harm than a little
-amusement at the expense of the circus men, now bitterly repented their
-thoughtless folly. They did what they could to atone for trick by making
-up a purse for the benefit of the families of the principal victims of
-the unfortunate affair, but the horse drama had received its death blow
-on Broadway.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER VI.
-       BREAKING AND TRAINING MULES—PERFORMING AND “COMIC” MULES.
-
-
-Mules appear fated to labor under an unfavorable and unenviable
-reputation. Not only has that rather objectionable quality of
-stubbornness been supposed to exist in their disposition to such an
-undue degree as to give rise to the saying, “as stubborn as a mule,” but
-this general reputation for intelligence is by no means first rate. That
-the mule is by nature inclined to be rather stubborn is undoubtedly
-true, but it is very questionable whether the wonderful displays of this
-quality sometimes met with, are not actually as much due to the very
-measures adopted to overcome the fault as to the natural disposition of
-the animal. With proper treatment and a little judicious training the
-objectionable features in a mule’s disposition might be easily remedied.
-
-[Illustration: A LAZY CURE FOR LAZINESS.]
-
-There is a clever invention attributed to a certain lazy Hindoo, for
-overcoming the proverbial laziness of the mule. It appears that the man
-was employed to oversee a mule working one of those primitive mills in
-use to this day in India. The man seems to have been slightly inclined
-toward laziness himself, and was anxious to contrive some plan which
-would enable him to keep the mule in motion and monopolize all the
-indolence himself. This he at last accomplished with the aid of a clever
-device, shown in the accompanying illustration, which explains itself.
-We give it as a curiosity in the “art of training animals,” without
-vouching for its strict fidelity to the truth.
-
-The following instructions are given by Mr. Riley, an experienced
-authority, for breaking mules:
-
-“In breaking the mule, most persons are apt to get out of patience with
-him. I have got out of patience with him myself. But patience is the
-great essential in breaking; and in the use of it you will find that you
-get along much better. The mule is an unnatural animal, and hence more
-timid of man than the horse; and yet he is tractable and capable of
-being taught to understand what you want him to do. And when he
-understands what you want, and has gained your confidence, you will, if
-you treat him kindly, have little trouble in making him perform his
-duty.
-
-“In commencing to break the mule, take hold of him gently, talk to him
-kindly. Don’t spring at him, as if he were a tiger you were in dread of.
-Don’t yell at him; don’t jerk him; don’t strike him with a club, as is
-often done; don’t get excited at his jumping and kicking. Approach and
-handle him the same as you would an animal already broken, and through
-kindness you will, in less than a week, have your mule more tractable,
-better broken, and kinder than you would in a month, had you used the
-whip. Mules, with very few exceptions, are born kickers. Breed them as
-carefully as you will, the moment they are able to stand up, and you put
-your hand on them, they will kick. It is, indeed, their natural means of
-defense, and they resort to it through the force of instinct. In
-commencing to break them, then, kicking is the first thing to guard
-against and overcome. The young mule kicks because he is afraid of a
-man. He has seen those entrusted with their care beat and abuse the
-older ones, and he very naturally fears the same treatment as soon as a
-man approaches him. Most persons entrusted with the care of these young
-and green mules have not had experience enough with them to know that
-this defect of kicking is soonest remedied by kind treatment. Careful
-study of the animal’s nature, and long experience with the animal have
-taught me that, in breaking the mule, whipping and harsh treatment
-almost invariably make him a worse kicker. They certainly make him more
-timid and afraid of you. And just as long as you fight a mule and keep
-him afraid of you, just so long will you be in danger of his kicking
-you. You must convince him through kindness that you are not going to
-hurt or punish him. And the sooner you do this, the sooner you are out
-of danger from his feet.”
-
-
-                           PERFORMING MULES.
-
-[Illustration: A “COMIC” MULE.]
-
-Chief among circus attractions, especially in the eyes of the boys, are
-the trick or “comic” mules. A couple of these animals are attached to
-nearly every troupe, and quite a variety of tricks are performed by
-them. The performance usually the most eagerly looked forward to, is
-that reserved for the final part of the exhibition. The regular
-performances being concluded, one of the mules is retained in the ring
-and the ring-master invites some boy present among the audience to come
-forward and take a ride—if he can. There are generally plenty of eager
-respondents to this invitation, one of whom is permitted to enter the
-ring. The ring-master leads the mule up to the boy as though to assist
-him in mounting. If the boy is “green” he will probably be somewhat
-astonished, as soon as the mule is brought near him, at having the pit
-of his stomach made a target for the reception of the said mule’s heels.
-If he has already seen a similar performance he will have anticipated
-this little episode, which can always be calculated upon without fear of
-disappointment. After many struggles the boy perhaps succeeds in
-mounting the mule and then an amusing contest ensues between them—the
-boy’s efforts being directed to maintain his hold, and the mule’s to
-dislodge him. Running at full speed, the animal tries to throw his rider
-by stopping suddenly, and if successful in this attempt, the boy is
-either thrown head first among his companions, or, if he lands in the
-ring, is chased out by the mule.
-
-It is rarely that any one succeeds in maintaining his hold for more than
-a few minutes, unless he is a capital rider, in which case he may be
-able to master the animal; should this result be at all likely, the
-ring-master will, on some pretext, interfere and select some less expert
-rider from the audience. Finally an attaché of the circus, disguised as
-a countryman, volunteers to ride the mule, and after considerable
-caricature riding, and ridiculous posturing, he concludes the
-performance.
-
-Sometimes to enhance the interest in the affair a reward of five dollars
-is offered to any one who will ride the mule three times around the
-ring. This was usually done by Dan ——, a prominent circus manager. We
-were present on one occasion when a big burly “rough” entered the ring
-at Dan’s general invitation, to compete for the prize. The mule was
-particularly spunky but he was finally forced to succumb, and
-notwithstanding all Dan’s attempts to balk the rider, the mule was
-ridden the requisite number of times around the ring. Lest any of our
-readers should be led to cherish the delusion that _they_ might thus
-earn a reward for displaying their mule breaking abilities, we may
-mention that, in this case at least, the rider did _not_ receive the
-money. The showman assured him that the offer was only in fun and
-declined to hand over the amount. The rough thereupon “pitched in” and
-administered a thrashing to the showman before he could be prevented. A
-general fight was only averted by the exertions of the police. We
-believe Dan, while he remained in that locality, did not repeat his
-offer.
-
-Very little special instruction is required for “comic mules.” The
-kicking part of the performance may be taught according to the
-instructions given for teaching horses the same act. The mule is allowed
-with strangers to give full vent to all the natural viciousness of his
-nature, and is encouraged therein. Toward his trainer, and those
-connected with the establishment, such conduct is not allowed. He soon
-learns from experience that the worst conduct toward boys in the ring is
-meritorious, and being annoyed by their persistent efforts to ride him,
-he resorts to every possible device, without requiring any instruction,
-to get rid of his tormentors.
-
-Another humorous scene sometimes enacted by the mules is a prize fight,
-the principals being rigged up in costume and furnished with boxing
-gloves, while two small donkeys are made to seat themselves and hold
-sponges, as though personating the seconds. Sometimes this latter
-character is assumed by the clown and ring-master, though it makes
-little difference. The actions of the mules have a very slight
-resemblance to a combat and the costumes make them look funny and
-satisfy the audience. The training required is merely to make them stand
-erect.
-
-[Illustration: AN ASININE PRIZE FIGHT.]
-
-Mules, though possessing less intelligence than horses, may be taught
-many of the tricks which the latter perform, and the same instructions
-will suffice for training them.
-
-The sure-footedness of mules has enabled trainers to teach them, in
-several cases, a very effective and showy trick—that of walking over a
-number of empty bottles placed upright on a floor or platform. This feat
-is always highly successful wherever performed, and it is really an
-excellent one. The bottles used are large, stout porter bottles, which
-will readily sustain a great weight if placed directly on top. To teach
-the trick the bottles are at first secured in a platform composed of a
-double thickness of planks, in the upper one of which holes are cut. In
-these holes the bottles are placed; the bottoms resting on the lower
-layer of planks, while the upper one holds them securely in place.
-
-Before teaching this trick the animal is usually taught the ordinary
-pedestal trick, as explained in a preceding chapter, as a preparatory
-lesson. He will then more readily acquire the bottle feat. He is first
-made to place one fore foot on top of a bottle’s neck, then the other
-fore foot on another. Then the first foot is tapped with the whip to
-make him raise it and advance it to the succeeding bottle; as he does
-this his hind foot is struck gently to force him to place it on the
-vacated bottle. Six or eight bottles are sufficient to commence with,
-additions being made as the animal becomes proficient. When the trick is
-learned it is unnecessary to secure the bottles in any way; if the mule
-places his foot squarely on the top, as he should be made to do, there
-is no danger of either breaking or upsetting them.
-
-[Illustration: THE PORTER BOTTLE FEAT.]
-
-There is a trick related of a couple of English costermongers, or
-perambulating vegetable dealers, which is amusing if not of practical
-value. These two worthies were in the habit of passing their donkey
-through a Devonshire toll gate, on their return trip, free of charge, by
-making him walk through on his hind legs, arm in arm with them, and
-taking advantage of the twilight to represent him as a friend slightly
-under the influence of liquor!
-
-At the south, where mules are almost universally used for many purposes
-for which horses are used at the north, the negroes are in the habit of
-directing their movements in many cases entirely by the voice. The
-animals of that section being as a rule more gently treated, are of a
-better disposition than their northern brethren. The course of training
-practiced by their stable masters is by no means systematic, but the
-animals manage by some means to learn to understand and obey the far
-from lucid commands. We have often been surprised to see how readily the
-mules would detect the meaning of what, to our ears, was entirely
-unintelligible. Probably practice had taught them what was required just
-as the mules which convey travelers through the wild mountain passes of
-Spain are reported to stop immediately upon hearing the hail of any of
-the banditti who infest those regions—habitual experience of the customs
-of those gentry having taught them to come to a stand still.
-
-There is an amusing, though, possibly, not strictly authentic, story
-told in connection with the performance of the pantomime of Humpty
-Dumpty, some years ago, in this city. In this spectacle a small mule was
-made to appear quite comically by the dexterity of his heels. During the
-season the regular animal fell ill, and an amateur was substituted. When
-one of the characters touched the new mule to make him kick, he began in
-admirable style. He kicked off the fellow and kicked him twice before he
-touched the boards. Then he ran toward several of the other dramatis
-personæ, and kicked them. Every movable object on the stage, animate or
-inanimate, he kicked off. Next he began on the scenery. He kicked down a
-whole forest, three good sized cottages, a picturesque cascade, a
-granite prison, a robber’s cave, a royal palace, the Rialto and Vesuvius
-in eruption, and was about to attack the grand transformation scene from
-Midsummer Night’s Dream, when a rope was thrown around his neck, and he
-was dragged off by the whole strength of the company, assisted by all
-the able bodied supernumeraries. The audience, many of whom supposed the
-obstreperous mule part of the performance, were delighted at his energy,
-and demanded with deafening plaudits, a repetition of the scene. The
-uproar was so great that the manager came out and said that an
-intermission of fifteen minutes would be given to enable some of the
-actors to recover the breath that the active mule had kicked out of
-them, and pledged his honor that the brute should never make another
-appearance on the Olympic stage. At this the audience roared louder than
-ever, and for nearly half an hour the performance was suspended by the
-universal guffaw. Every night afterward while the piece ran, the kicking
-mule was called for, and the manager of the theater it is said, in
-consequence, had to insert an advertisement in the daily papers, stating
-that the animal was mysteriously knocked in the head the same night of
-his highly successful débût.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER VII.
-    SOME HINTS FOR FARMERS—MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING OF ANIMALS ON THE
-     FARM—SOME EVILS AND HOW TO REMEDY THEM—GOOD TRAINING VS. BAD.
-
-
-Farmers would find it of great advantage to pay more attention to the
-education of their domestic animals. Many things may be taught them
-without any appreciable trouble, which will prove not only convenient,
-but profitable in the saving of time and labor that may be effected. For
-instance, any animal on the farm may be taught to come on being called,
-instead of requiring to be hunted for and chased home whenever wanted.
-All that is necessary is to give him some dainty as a reward, each time,
-and the thing will be accomplished almost before you are aware of it. By
-giving each animal a particular name and calling him by that, you teach
-each individual to come to you when wanted, and if you reward only the
-one you call, the others will soon learn to come only when desired. This
-custom is observed with the sheep in Greece; the shepherd has only to
-call any one he wants, and the animal will instantly leave its pasturage
-and its companions and run to the hand of the shepherd, with every token
-of pleasure. Those which have not learned their name are called “wild,”
-while the others are termed “tame.”
-
-Animals cannot associate with man without learning _something_. Many of
-those habits and tricks which farmers deplore in their stock, are due to
-the _unintentional_ training that has been given the animals. If your
-stock run from you, appear to dread your presence and can never be made
-to stand quietly, perhaps this state of things may be accounted for if
-you reply candidly to the question whether they have not been accustomed
-to tormenting or annoyance, and so taught to be wild. No wonder there is
-complaint of cows being unquiet, when the habit is so general of pelting
-them with stones, or punching them with sticks, while driving home to
-milk.
-
-How often instead of attempting to teach the animals proper behavior do
-we see an apparently contrary course adopted? The “American Stock
-Journal” has some sensible remarks on this subject:
-
-“We find many persons, when turning stock into or out of pasture,
-instead of letting down all the bars, leaving two or three of the lower
-rails in their place; and then, by shouting or beating, perhaps, force
-the animals to leap over. This is capital training, the results of which
-are seen in the after disposition of animals to try their powers of
-jumping where a top rail happens to be off, and this accomplished, to
-set all fences at defiance, and make a descent upon the corn or grain
-field, as their inclination, ability or hunger may prompt them. Another
-good lesson is to open a gate but a little way, and then, as in the case
-of the bars, force the cattle forward, and by threats and blows compel
-them to pass through it. The result of this teaching is shown in the
-determined spirit manifested by some cattle to make a forcible entry
-into the stable, yards, fields, or in fact, to almost every place where
-a gate or door may, by accident, be left slightly open. A western farmer
-says he makes it a rule whenever cattle are made to pass a fence,
-whether through bars or ‘slipgap,’ to leave one rail for them to pass
-under. This gives them a downward tendency, and lessens their
-inclination to jump or look upward, as they are sure to do when a lazy
-attendant throws down a part of the rails, and makes them vault the
-rest. Cattle may be taught to go over any fence by the careful training
-they often get for this end, performed as follows: First, starve them or
-give them poor feed, which will make them light and restless. As soon as
-they go over the lowest part of the fence after better provender, make
-them jump back again, and put on one more rail, saying, ‘I guess that
-will keep them out.’ Next day, (of course they will be in mischief
-again) repeat the process, adding another rail; in a short time they
-will take care of themselves, and harvest the crops without charge.”
-
-That gentleness and good treatment will subdue even naturally unamiable
-dispositions in animals, is shown by the example of the bulls intended
-for the bull fights at Havre during the marine exhibition in 1868. The
-bulls, selected for their ferocity on the plains of the Guadalquiver,
-were so kindly treated by the railway servants during their journey
-across Spain and France, that, on arriving at their destination, they
-had become perfectly tame and could not be induced to fight. The
-sight-seers were obliged to solace themselves with a regatta in lieu of
-their anticipated combat.
-
-It may be interesting here to refer briefly to the proper management of
-bulls. There has been some discussion as to whether or not it is
-advisable to use bulls for purposes of draught. The advocates of the
-plan consider that a bull should do _some_ labor and that exercise would
-be beneficial. The opponents say that the main object of keeping bulls
-is to breed, and that exhaustive labor would impair the vigor of the
-descendants. Though the latter is probably the true case bulls should be
-exercised in the open air if it is desired to keep them in health and
-vigor. They should always have a ring inserted through the nose that
-they may be held in control, but they should never be tied up by
-anything attached to this ring. Always use a rope tied around the horns;
-a sudden jerk is very apt to tear the ring from the nose. Never fool
-with bulls, and beware of trusting yourself in their power. They are
-subject to sudden fits of fierceness, when any defenceless person is
-liable to be horribly destroyed.
-
-One of the most important duties on the farm is the breaking of steers.
-It is best to begin with them as calves, and let the boys play with
-them, and drive them tied or yoked together, taking care they are not
-abused. When a pair of old steers are to be put together and broken to
-the yoke, or a pair of bulls, as not unfrequently happens, it is usually
-best to yoke them, and _tie their tails together_, in an extempore
-stall, in a well fenced yard, and then turn them loose in the yard,
-which should not be large enough for them to run in and get under much
-headway. If the tails are not tied together they will frequently turn
-the yoke, which is a very bad habit. After half a day’s association, the
-lesson of “gee up!” and “whoa!” may be inculcated—and when well learned,
-probably the next day, “haw” and “gee.” The daily lesson should be given
-after they have stood yoked a while. They should not be taken from the
-yard until they have become used to the yoke, and are no longer wild and
-scary, as they are apt to be at first. Each day all previous lessons
-should be repeated. Put them before an ox-sled or a pair of cart wheels
-at first, rather than to a stone boat, as they are apt to step on the
-chain, and that frightens them. All treatment should be firm but mild,
-and no superfluous words should be employed.
-
-As regards training heifers, a Pennsylvania farmer who has trained and
-milked heifers for more than fifty years, and never has any trouble
-about their jumping, kicking, or running, gives the following as his
-secret: “When I intend to raise a heifer calf for a milch cow, I always
-raise it by hand, and when feeding, frequently handle it by rubbing it
-gently over the head and neck until it becomes tame and gentle. The
-rubbing is begun at the first feeding with milk, and continued until I
-quit feeding it; I never afterward have any trouble about milking them.”
-
-
-
-
-                             CHAPTER VIII.
-             DOGS IN GENERAL—WATCH DOGS—THE SHEPHERD’S DOG.
-
-
-Among all the animals the dog seems preëminently intended by nature for
-the companion and friend of man. Even the instinctive passions all
-animals have for their own kind appear to be in a measure sacrificed to
-human influence, for the dogs often care more for the society of man
-than for that of their own kind. Not only is the dog a trusty and
-valuable friend and associate of man, but the companionship between the
-human and the canine races developes in the latter many of those noble
-qualities not possessed under other circumstances. The Turks look upon
-the dog with abhorrence, and almost universally in the East he is an
-outcast from human society. The consequence is that all his good
-qualities are lost; he is no longer the faithful companion, ready to
-defend his master with his life, but on the contrary, he is deceitful,
-bloodthirsty, and as unlike the more favored dog of other countries as
-it is possible to imagine.
-
-
-                              WATCH DOGS.
-
-Many kinds of dogs are used as watch dogs, and where all that is
-required of them is a notification of nightly intruders, and the
-awakening of the household, perhaps the species used is of comparatively
-little consequence. Where the dog is intended to act as a defender as
-well as a sentinel, strength and courage are important requisites. With
-many the bull dog is a favorite for this purpose. Though the least
-intelligent of his species his unflinching and unconquerable courage
-renders him a terrible opponent. So utterly without intellect is his
-courage, however, that no consideration of his foe’s powers deters him
-from attacking the most formidable thing that gives offense. Striking
-examples of this quality are displayed in England in what are termed
-“bull baits,” exhibitions whose cruelty and brutality are scarcely
-excelled in the customs of any other country. In these bull baits the
-dog, while fastened to the nose of some unfortunate bull, has had one
-leg after another cut off with a knife to test his courage. So
-persistent is the dog in maintaining his hold that the most frightful
-mutilation will not compel him to relinquish it until his strength is
-exhausted from loss of blood; he has been known to die from this inhuman
-hacking with his death grip firmly holding the bull.
-
-Probably the best watch dog is the mastiff. Capable of great attachment
-to his master, he unites strength with intelligence, and, while
-implacable toward intruders, toward members of his master’s family he is
-docile and gentle. His hearing is remarkably acute, for he can detect
-the difference between a familiar and a strange footstep, however light
-it may be.
-
-
-                          THE SHEPHERD’S DOG.
-
-The rapid increase in the importance of sheep husbandry in this country
-will soon direct attention to the value of proper dogs for assisting in
-their management and protection. There are several different breeds used
-for this purpose, varying in different countries with their several
-local requirements. In Spain the Pyrenean, or St. Bernard’s dogs, are
-found valuable to accompany the large merino flocks on their annual
-migrations to the mountains, as a protection against the wolves
-infesting the Pyrenees. In Spain, too, the mastiff is highly prized, an
-improved, large breed, with strong feet, short hair and slightly pointed
-nose, being much in use.
-
-A gentleman of Delaware gave, some years ago, the following account of a
-shepherd’s dog of the Spanish breed in his possession:
-
-“The dog is three times as large as the shepherd’s dog described by
-Buffon, but is endowed with the same good qualities: immense strength
-and great mildness in his usual deportment, though ferocious toward
-other dogs. I can say, without exaggeration, that at least twenty dogs
-have been killed in my barnyard, or on my farm, by my dog Montague. His
-dimensions are three feet eleven inches from his eyes to the root of his
-tail, and two feet eight inches high over the shoulders. He is a fine
-animal, _entirely white_. I prefer that color in recollection of the
-story of old Jacob. In fact, I had formerly a black dog, and many of my
-lambs were born black. Since I have had Montague and his mother I have
-very few black lambs. The natural instinct of this animal is to guard
-your sheep against wolves and dogs. No other training is required, but
-to keep them constantly with your flock, the moment they are from the
-litter, until they are grown.”
-
-What is commonly known as the shepherd’s dog is a smaller breed, seldom
-more than two feet high. Those in France are usually black with white
-touches on breast, face, legs, etc.; with sharp head and nose, and with
-a countenance full of alertness and intelligence. In Great Britain,
-particularly in Scotland, the colors of the shepherd’s dog are more
-mixed with shades of red and brown; or black dogs with sharp ears,
-turning down at the tips. The Scotch breed, or colley, is a light and
-active one, probably the best adapted for those portions of our own
-country where there is no danger from wild animals. It is pretty
-extensively diffused in the United States and British America, and is
-very useful to the farmer, shepherd or drover.
-
-[Illustration: SCOTCH COLLEY, OR SHEPHERD’S DOG.]
-
-The Mexican shepherd’s dog is doubtless a descendant of the Spanish ones
-introduced at the time of the conquest, and is a marvel of fidelity and
-intelligence. In training these dogs the method is to select from a
-multitude of pups a few of the healthiest and finest looking, and to put
-them to a sucking ewe, first depriving her of her own lamb. By force, as
-well as from a natural desire she has to be relieved of the contents of
-her udder, she soon learns to look upon the little interlopers with all
-the affection she would manifest for her own natural offspring. For the
-first few days the pups are kept in the hut, the ewe suckling them
-morning and evening only; but gradually, as she becomes accustomed to
-their sight, she is allowed to run in a small enclosure with them, until
-she becomes so perfectly familiar with their appearance as to take
-entire charge of them. After this they are folded with the whole flock
-for a fortnight or so; they then run about during the day with the
-flock, which after a while becomes so accustomed to them, as to be able
-to distinguish them from other dogs—even from those of the same litter
-which have not been nursed among them. The shepherds usually allow the
-slut to keep one of a litter for her own particular benefit; the balance
-are generally destroyed. After the pups are weaned, they never leave the
-particular drove among which they have been reared. Not even the voice
-of their master can entice them beyond sight of their flock; nor can
-hunger or thirst.
-
-A remarkable example of the intelligence of these dogs is displayed when
-two flocks approach within a few yards of each other; their respective
-protectors will place themselves in the space between them, and as is
-very naturally the case, if any adventurous sheep should endeavor to
-cross over to visit her neighbors, her dog protector kindly but firmly
-leads her back, and as it sometimes happens, it may make a rush and
-succeed in joining the other flock, the dogs under whose charge they are
-go over and bring them all out, but strange to say, under such
-circumstances they _are never opposed by the other dogs_. They approach
-the strange sheep only to prevent their own from leaving the flock,
-though they offer no assistance in expelling the other sheep. But they
-_never permit_ sheep not under canine protection, nor dogs not in charge
-of sheep, to approach them. Even the same dogs which are so freely
-permitted to enter their flocks in search of their own are driven away
-with ignominy if they presume to approach them without that laudable
-object in view.
-
-The English sheep dog, or drover’s dog, is a _tailless_ animal, larger,
-coarser, and stronger than the colley. It is very easily trained and is
-very well adapted for working among cattle, keeping the herd from
-straggling when on the road or the prairie, and acting as an aid to the
-farmer in the management of his flocks and herds. One of this breed was
-used by an American farmer to drive home his cows. It was only necessary
-to tell him it was time to bring the cows, and he would scour the farm
-and bring them from all parts safely into the yard. On the prairies such
-dogs would be of great use.
-
-A careful, well tempered shepherd never allows his dog to harass or
-worry the sheep. He walks his regular rounds quietly, the dog following
-at his heels, appearing to take no notice of the sheep, and they almost
-unconscious of his presence. Should anything occur in which the aid of
-the dog is needed, he is at hand to perform the will of his master. If
-the sheep break through a fence into forbidden ground, one word from the
-shepherd is enough, the dog drives them back without causing much alarm.
-If a sheep breaks away from the flock, the dog is not allowed to bite
-it; he is taught to run before it and bark, in order to drive it back to
-its place.
-
-A dog which has been properly trained will be continually on the look
-out for stray sheep, and will, of his own accord, visit those parts of
-the pastures where the fences are weakest, and where ditches or ravines
-exist, into which the sheep may be in danger of falling. Heavy sheep,
-with large fleeces, will sometimes lie on their backs for a whole day or
-night, being unable to get up. When in this position, instances have
-occurred of their eyes being picked out either by ravens or carrion
-crows. They are all subject to the attacks of dogs and foxes. A well
-trained shepherd’s dog will find sheep that are in this position, and
-attract attention to them.
-
-Well trained dogs will not annoy ewes with lambs, nor show any signs of
-irritation when assaulted by the ewe for the protection of her young.
-They keep at a respectable distance from quarrelsome rams, not
-considering it to be any part of their business to fight with them. They
-are very watchful at night, especially during the lambing season,
-guarding the lambs from the attacks of foxes and dogs and all other
-intruders.
-
-In training a young shepherd’s dog, the services of a well trained,
-experienced dog will be almost indispensable. The ardent temperament of
-the young dog must be subdued, and there is no better mode of doing so
-than by compelling him to accompany a well trained dog and imitate his
-actions. A long line in the hands of the trainer, attached to a collar
-or belt on the neck of the young dog is generally necessary in the
-training process. With the aid of this contrivance the dog may be
-perfectly subdued, and made to obey all the commands of the trainer. He
-can be taught to “go away,” “come back,” “come in front,” “come behind,”
-“bark,” “lie down,” “be quiet,” “get over the fence,” “slop them,”
-“bring them back,” and every other evolution in the field exercise of
-the sheep dog. The training should commence when the pup is five or six
-months old. The older the animal is, the more difficult will it be to
-train him.
-
-The shepherd’s dog of any of the breeds we have mentioned, has a natural
-inclination for working among sheep, but he may be spoiled by improper
-management, and then he becomes an enemy to the flock instead of a
-protector. A cross between the mastiff, bull dog or cur, and the
-shepherd’s dog, produces a mongrel which has an insatiate thirst for the
-blood of the sheep, and can scarcely be restrained from destroying them.
-The shepherd’s dog should be full blood, anything less is worse than
-useless. Dogs even of the best breeds may be spoiled by neglect or
-mismanagement in the training. The shepherd must himself treat the sheep
-with gentleness if he desires the dog to do so; the dog will act as his
-master does.
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER IX.
-            SPORTING DOGS AND THEIR MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING.
-
-
-The pointer and the setter are the two universally recognized dogs for
-hunting game birds. As to which of the two is the better variety
-authorities differ, and much depends upon circumstances. For hot
-climates the pointer has more endurance than the setter, but he is also
-more tender and would suffer in a cold climate. Pointers do not require
-so careful training, and with sportsmen who are, as is the case with
-many, loose in their manner of training, a pointer will be a passably
-well behaved dog where, with the same laxity, a setter would be utterly
-worthless. As the value of a dog in hunting depends in such a great
-degree upon his proper understanding of the work in hand, and his prompt
-and faithful execution of the duties incumbent upon him, too much pains
-cannot be taken with his training.
-
-
-                         PRELIMINARY TRAINING.
-
-The education of sporting dogs should begin in earliest puppyhood.
-Unless they are early taught obedience, it will be difficult to overcome
-this neglect by after training. His first lesson may be given with the
-aid of a piece of beef placed before him on a plate. Naturally he will
-evince an eagerness to obtain it. Prevent his doing so, by gently
-tapping him upon the head, at the same time cry, “toho!” By repeating
-this word each time you check his eagerness, he is taught to associate
-the slap with the word and to stop when the word is used. This makes the
-“point.” In a few moments after you must cry, “hie on,” and allow him to
-seize the meat. “Steady” is the next lesson, and consists in allowing
-him slowly to approach the plate as you keep repeating the word at short
-intervals. When near the plate cry, “toho,” and never allow him to reach
-the meat until you give the command, “hie on!” When you wish him to
-break his point but not to “pitch in” to the meat, the command, “close
-on” should be used. Before he reaches the plate, cry, “toho,” and then,
-“hie on;” when he has pointed, by “close on” he must understand that he
-is to move cautiously, and this he is taught by the oft repeated command
-of “steady.” All these commands may be taught with patience, and
-patience is absolutely necessary. No harshness should be used, and no
-new lesson should be attempted until the old one is fully mastered. You
-should always feed the dog yourself.
-
-When the preceding lessons are thoroughly acquired, “charge” may be
-taught. Gently force him down as you give the command, extend his fore
-paws and gently place his head between them. Each time he moves, tap him
-lightly and repeat the command. No more force should be used than is
-absolutely requisite. Practice him frequently by crying,
-“charge—charge,” with your hand upraised, and forcing him into the
-desired position. To make him rise, you should cry, “hie up,” and gently
-raise him. Repeat these instructions until they are fully understood and
-readily obeyed, doing a little each day, but doing that thoroughly.
-
-To retrieve is the next lesson to be taught. An old glove or other soft
-substance should be used, and after allowing the pup to play with it,
-toss it from you and he will rush to get it. Call him to you after he
-has got it, and take it from him, rewarding him with caresses and kind
-words. Repeat this plan using the command, “hie fetch,” when you wish
-him to go, and “come in,” when you wish him to return. By using the
-command, “come in,” on all occasions when he is a little distance from
-you—when you call him to feed him—etc., he will learn to obey it. Hooper
-in his excellent work[1] gives the following directions for teaching a
-dog to retrieve: “Begin by placing your glove within his mouth, making
-him retain it; if he rejects it, replace it, gently correcting him,
-crying, ‘fetch! fetch!’ After he understands the meaning of the word
-fetch you may let him accompany you in a walk, in some quiet place.
-Whenever he drops the glove you must gently and encouragingly replace
-it, crying, ‘fetch! fetch!’ If he rejects it the lash must be used, but
-sparingly. If you study the disposition of your dog and manage properly,
-he will soon perfectly understand you, and gaily and happily gambol
-alongside of you, seldom dropping his charge, and if he should, he will
-only need the words, ‘hie fetch! fetch!’ to make him bound back with
-eagerness to regain the lost glove. You may now take the glove, cast it
-from you, and tell him to ‘hie, fetch!’ He will immediately return with
-the glove. You may now let him see you drop the glove, walk off thirty
-or forty yards, wave your hand in the direction of the glove, and cry,
-‘hie, fetch!’ He will of course regain the glove. After practising him
-at this often, you may drop the glove unobserved by him. He will soon
-follow your track for a considerable distance for a lost article, by
-receiving the command, ‘hie, fetch!’ You may now give the glove to
-another person to hide, first permitting the dog to see it in his
-possession, and he will be almost certain to find it, if it is at all
-accessible. In your first lessons be careful to place the glove where
-your dog will be certain to find it—not too far off.”
-
-Footnote 1:
-
-  DOG AND GUN.—Price thirty cents, post paid. An interesting and useful
-  work for every amateur sportsman.
-
-[Illustration: THE SETTER.]
-
-He should also be taught to follow closely on at the sportsman’s heel
-when they are out together; this may be done by saying, “back, back!”
-and striking him gently with the whip when he attempts to press forward.
-Any hunting dog may be taught to retrieve notwithstanding the complaints
-some sportsmen make to the contrary. Great patience is required to teach
-the dog, but the result of careful training amply compensates for the
-trouble. Hooper recommends that, after the dog has learned the preceding
-lessons, he be made to practice them often, playing with a ball.
-
-
-                         LESSONS IN THE FIELD.
-
-After the dog has been thoroughly drilled in the preliminary exercises
-we have described, it will be necessary to teach him their practical
-application. Much of the future value and usefulness of the dog depends
-upon his first day’s shooting and the manner in which he is initiated
-into the sport. We again avail ourselves of Mr. Hooper’s instructions
-for managing him the first day he is taken out:
-
-“When you observe Dash more excited than usual, you may reasonably
-expect a bevy near. They will not probably be far off, as he has not
-become accustomed to the familiar and welcome scent that will enable him
-to wind them at a distance. Now comes the trying hour for master and
-pupil. The former should be perfectly cool, and should consider the
-killing of game a secondary affair—let him give his attention to Dash.
-The dog seems too eager for the scent—you cry ‘steady! steady!’—if he is
-apparently near the game, and you are afraid he will flush, you cry
-‘toho!’ You approach and find the quail do not raise—you tell him to
-close on, which he does by moving rather rapidly—you check him by crying
-‘steady! steady!’ he points, ‘toho!’ You now approach and flush the
-bevy; be sure you bring down one bird, and it will be well that you only
-fire one barrel, that you may have more time to look after Dash, who of
-course scampers after the whirring bevy. You immediately cry ‘toho! come
-in!’—on, on he goes; in his wild excitement he disregards your will
-entirely. You now use your whistle. By this time the birds are out of
-sight (but you, of course, have marked them), and he is running helter
-skelter. You must soon get hold of his collar, drag him rather roughly
-back to where he pointed—lashing him slightly—and make him ‘charge,’ and
-keep his position until you reload; after which you will take him to
-where your bird has fallen—indicate the place with your hand, crying
-‘hie, fetch! fetch! fetch!’ From his previous lessons he will know that
-you wish him to look for something, and his nose will soon tell him what
-it is. Do not let him mouth or toy with it, or he will soon get in the
-habit of roughly mouthing your game, than which I scarcely know a worse
-habit.
-
-“You may now rest for a short time, that the bevy may get over their
-fright; after which they will be more easily found, for if they have
-been very much frightened, they will not give out sufficient odor to
-enable your pupil to point well, and he may consequently flush them,
-thereby doing great harm. You cannot do better than to spend your time
-in repeating your house training with the dead quail: casting it from
-you, telling him to ‘close on! steady! charge! hie on! fetch!’ Cast it
-some distance unobserved—waft your hand in the proper direction, and
-tell him ‘hie, fetch! fetch! fetch!’ After a short time has elapsed, you
-may take Dash to where you have marked the birds. When near the birds,
-keep Dash near you, that he may be the more easily controlled. If he
-seem too eager he only needs the command of ‘steady!’ to control him.
-Let the command be in rather an undertone—never get into the snobbish
-habit of _bawling_ at your dog. Apart from its being an ungentlemanly
-habit, it frightens the quail more or less, and they will not lie so
-well to the dog. Ha! but Dash has _come_ down to a point most
-beautifully, ‘toho!’ You carefully approach, flush and shoot the bird,
-and immediately give your attention to the dog, crying ‘charge!’ in a
-strong and emphatic tone; if he breaks, get hold of his collar as soon
-as possible and lash him, and at the same time drag him to his ‘point’
-and make him ‘charge’ and keep his position until you reload. You then
-cry ‘hie up,’ make friends with him, and cast him off—he soon points
-again. You manage to get very near the dog, and when you fire,
-immediately cry ‘charge!’ and it would be well to accompany ‘the word
-with a blow,’ at this juncture. You make him charge, reload, cry ‘hie
-up,’ indicate the point where the bird has fallen, and command him to
-‘hie fetch!’ You cast him off again, and _always_ manage to control him
-after you fire—_never, never_ suffering him to break shot without
-feeling the lash. Remember this is the most critical time for yourself
-and dog. Never suffer yourself to become excited; do not for some time
-fire more than one barrel, that you may sooner give your attention to
-Dash, and you will accomplish much if you can be near enough to Dash to
-give him the lash as he first springs from the point, at the same time
-crying ‘charge!’ If you do not suffer yourself to become excited, and
-lose sight of your dog after your shot, you will soon have him drop at
-the report of the gun; but rest assured, if you let him have his own way
-a few times, in your eagerness to secure game, you will rue it for many
-a day to come. You cannot have this fact too strongly impressed upon
-yourself. If you control him _from the first_, your object will be
-attained. If Dash evinces unusual perverseness in this, it will be well
-to make him ‘charge’ while on a ‘point.’ Even should he see a dead bird
-fall, he should not retrieve without permission.”
-
-It is a maxim in hunting never to allow a dog to run ahead of another in
-a point, but either to make him back, or come in to heel. Besides the
-danger of flushing your game, it would be permitting an unfair advantage
-to be taken of the dog doing his duty in the lead, of both which a dog
-of nice sensibility will show himself to be conscious. It happened, some
-years since, that a party was out, near Old Point Comfort in Virginia,
-with a fine pointer belonging to Mr. A——. A small terrier had
-accompanied them, and whenever the pointer would take his stand, the
-terrier would rush by him, and put up the birds. Repeating this
-vexatious, ungentlemanly conduct several times, the pointer was seen to
-grow impatient. At last having found another bevy, as the terrier
-attempted to pass him, the pointer seized him, and placing his fore paws
-on him, held him fast, growling to keep him quiet, and maintaining his
-point until the sportsmen came up.
-
-
-                              WATER DOGS.
-
-The Newfoundland is unquestionably the water dog par excellence, and
-probably the best individuals of the variety are the celebrated dogs
-used for duck shooting on the margin of Chesapeake Bay and commonly
-called the Chesapeake Bay Water Dog. These animals being derived from
-ancestors of pure breed, and the constant training from generation to
-generation having caused the transmission of their excellent qualities
-in increased measure to each successive generation, are probably
-unrivalled by any other in their particular forte. Owing to thoughtless
-and injudicious mixing of breeds a true Newfoundland is rarely seen.
-Although the purer the breed the better water dog he will be, yet many
-dogs of mixed breeds possessing considerable Newfoundland blood, make
-excellent dogs for ordinary aquatic sporting.
-
-On breeding the water dog little need be said, for, like Dogberry’s
-reading and writing, his education “comes by nature.” In his infancy he
-may be taught to bring a glove and lay it down at your feet as he should
-do; and, by practice, the comprehension and fulfillment of his various
-duties will soon follow. He will be found, with judicious encouragement
-and exercise of authority, more docile than a child. They have been
-known at four months old to fetch a duck, but lest the constitution be
-impaired, they should not be put too early at hard service.
-
-“Canton,” a celebrated Newfoundland, owned by Dr. Stewart, of Sparrow’s
-Point—a great sportsman in his day—was noted for a number of remarkable
-feats in securing “canvas backs” on the Chesapeake. She surpassed her
-species generally in unrivalled devotion to the water, and to the sport
-of ducking, as carried on by the doctor’s colored man, Varnell, with his
-murderous swivel gun. Her patience and endurance were almost incredible.
-She was the heroine of many desperate encounters with wounded swans,
-often pursuing them for miles, and many were her exploits among rotten
-and floating ice, in pursuit of wounded ducks, sometimes, in fogs and
-darkness. On one occasion she brought out twenty-two or twenty-three
-ducks, all killed or wounded by Varnell at a single shot. A good deal of
-time was lost in pursuing these wounded ducks, and at the close of this
-pursuit, it being then dark, Varnell gave up the slut as lost, so many
-hours had she been engaged in bringing out her game; but after Varnell
-had sorrowfully turned his face homeward, she overtook him with one or
-two ducks in her mouth; and the old doctor stated that he remembered
-Varnell saying that at one time, when she was most fatigued, she climbed
-on a cake of floating ice, and after resting herself on it, renewed the
-pursuit of the ducks.
-
-
-
-
-                               CHAPTER X.
-                   ORDINARY TRICKS PERFORMED BY DOGS.
-
-
-Every dog who has the good or ill fortune to be a member of civilized
-society is usually fated to undergo a more or less systematic education
-“in the way he should go.” This education may be either in the primitive
-style illustrated by the administration of a vigorous kick accompanying
-the command “get out,” to teach the dog to leave you, or the more
-elaborate training which culminates in the production of a canine
-prodigy. The capacity for education in dogs varies much with different
-varieties, and even with individuals of the same variety. While some are
-taught with the greatest difficulty, others display a wonderful aptitude
-for learning, and acquire a proficiency which is often really
-surprising. Whether it is proposed to educate the animal as much as his
-capacity will admit of, or merely to teach him the things necessary for
-common convenience, the first thing is
-
-
-                         TO TEACH HIM HIS NAME.
-
-If a dog has any particular name by which he is usually addressed, he
-will in time learn to answer to it. With a little system, however, he
-will learn much sooner than otherwise, and where there are several dogs
-it is a good plan to make each know his own distinctive title
-thoroughly, and to respond promptly to it. This will render your
-intercourse with, and your management of them, both easier and
-pleasanter. It may be accomplished by a very simple process. When you
-feed them, call each one by name to his food. If any of the others come
-forward, send them back. By dividing the food into small morsels and
-calling each dog in turn to receive his piece, always insisting that
-_he_ and no other shall receive it, considerable of a lesson may be
-derived from each meal. When convenient take them out to walk, being
-careful to provide yourself with a few crackers or a piece of bread.
-Allow the dogs to ramble about at their pleasure, and whenever you
-choose call some particular one by his name; when he comes to you reward
-him with a piece of cracker. By-and-by call some other one, and continue
-the plan at your discretion. At the end of ten or a dozen lessons they
-will have pretty well learned their names, and come at your call. If you
-have only one dog, the plan would be about the same.
-
-
-                                TO LEAP.
-
-This is very a simple trick and easily taught. A line or pole may be
-extended from any convenient supports, just so high that the dog cannot
-_step_ over. Take your station on one side of this barrier with a supply
-of bread or cracker. By the offer of a small piece induce him to
-approach as near as possible to the line or pole, keeping the tid-bit
-close to his nose, but raised a trifle above it. Now, with a sudden
-movement, extend your hand beyond the barrier, crying at the same
-moment, “hip,” or any other quick, inspiring exclamation. Eager to get
-the tempting morsel he will leap over, and the same proceeding may be
-repeated once or twice, when he should be rewarded with the bait he has
-been striving for. After a few repetitions he will probably leap over at
-a motion of the hand and the word of command. He should always be
-rewarded for obeying, and it is well to have a light switch with which
-to give him a gentle cut should he attempt to run under, which he should
-never be permitted to do. The hight of the barrier may be increased
-gradually from day to day, taking care never to over-task his powers.
-With practice many dogs acquire the ability of making very creditable
-leaps. We had an old dog who had been attached to a circus in his youth,
-and had been rather “fast” in his proclivities. Not being content to
-settle down to the quiet peacefulness of a back-yard existence, which he
-probably considered rather slow, he was in the habit of leaping over a
-fence at least ten feet high and plentifully studded with spikes, that
-he might indulge in a nightly canine spree with other festive dogs of
-his acquaintance.
-
-When the dog leaps readily over a bar, a hoop may be held in the hand
-and the same system pursued. The hoop may be gradually lessened in size
-until the dog finally leaps through one hardly bigger around than his
-own body, but to do this the trainer must display some skill in
-conforming the motions of the hoop to those of the dog as he passes
-through.
-
-
-                             TO WALK ERECT.
-
-[Illustration: WALKING ERECT.]
-
-Hold a bone or other like temptation a little above the dog’s nose, but
-not so high as to lead him to jump to get it. As he reaches for it raise
-it so as to induce him to rise up on his hind feet, saying as you do so,
-“up, up!” When he reaches the proper stand-point, let him remain there a
-moment or two and then let him have the bone. Soon he will stand up on
-your merely holding your hand in the position described and saying, “up,
-up.” Then he may be taught to walk in this position by slowly moving the
-bone or your hand slightly in advance. These exercises should not be
-tediously prolonged, especially at first, for the position is an
-unnatural and very fatiguing one to the animal. After he thoroughly
-understands what is required of him you may check any attempt he may
-make to regain his natural position before you are willing, by a gentle
-tap under the chin or under the fore paws.
-
-
-                               TO DANCE.
-
-A dog is generally considered sufficiently accomplished in this
-“graceful and agreeable art” when he has learned to hop around on his
-hind legs, and to keep turning completely around at short intervals.
-There are several modes of arriving at this result, the most simple of
-which is, probably, to take a long switch, after the dog has learned to
-stand erect, and to this switch attach a piece of meat. With this you
-can trace out in the air, in tempting proximity to his nose, the figures
-you wish him to take, and you may depend upon his instinct leading him
-to follow the motions of the switch. This may seem rather an absurd plan
-for initiating your pupil into the mysteries of the ball-room, but it is
-nevertheless one of the most effective that can be devised. The dog
-should be rewarded with the meat after he has danced enough to fairly
-earn it, and after a few lessons the switch may be used without any bait
-attached. He will at first follow its motions in the hope that there
-_is_ something attached, and if he be rewarded for doing so, he will
-soon comprehend that following the switch means meat by-and-by. If he is
-dressed up in feminine apparel, as is generally done at public
-exhibitions, the absurd figure he cuts, and the ridiculous caricature of
-a lady “tripping the light fantastic toe” which he presents, is
-extremely laughable.
-
-
-                             TO JUMP ROPE.
-
-After the dog has learned to leap at your command a light rope may be
-substituted for the pole, one end of the rope being attached to some
-stationary object while the other end is held in your hand. Exercise the
-dog a few times at leaping the rope while it is without motion, and near
-the ground, using the command “hip,” or whatever one he has been trained
-to leap with, each time. Then give the rope a slight motion and at the
-proper moment give the dog the usual command and he will obey it. By
-increasing the motion very gradually he will, after many lessons, be
-able to jump rope very creditably. He may be taught either to jump while
-standing on his full complement of legs, or in the perpendicular
-fashion.
-
-
-                          TO SIT AND LIE DOWN.
-
-It is one thing to have your dog do a thing at his own convenience and
-of his own free will, and quite another thing to have him perform the
-same action at your desire, especially if he had a little rather not do
-it. This applies particularly to sitting or lying down, for it usually
-happens that when you desire him to do so he feels least inclined; but
-it is the trainer’s business to bend the animal’s will to his own, and
-in this case it may be done thus: Taking your position with the dog in
-front of you, raise one hand over his head and make a motion with it as
-though about to strike him on the top of his head with your palm; as you
-do so repeat the word “down” distinctly and commandingly, with each
-motion of the hand. This should not be done as a menace, but to indicate
-your wishes. While you do this, press firmly with your other hand upon
-his back, just over the hips,—this pressure will assist in making him
-take the desired position. When he has done so he should be patted and
-made to understand that he has done right. Repeat until he obeys the
-command readily, and then teach him to _lie_ down, which consists in
-forcing him into a recumbent posture, as you command him to “_lie_
-down!”
-
-
-                                TO BEG.
-
-After the dog has learned to stand erect he may easily be taught to beg.
-All that is requisite is to press him down in the desired position; if
-he attempts to leave it a gentle tap on the head with the switch will be
-sufficient to control him. He may, if preferred, be taught to beg
-without learning to stand erect; in this case he may be made to sit down
-and then, pressing his haunches down to prevent his rising to his feet,
-tap him under the chin till he takes the right position. Repetition is
-of course necessary until he learns what is desired, and each time you
-place him in position it is well to say “beg” two or three times so he
-may associate the word with the act. Dogs, like many of the human race,
-after they have “got the hang of it,” will beg persistently for the sake
-of an occasional trifling reward.
-
-
-                            TO GIVE HIS PAW.
-
-There is scarcely a boy’s pet dog who has not acquired this very simple
-trick, though his master probably would not recollect how it was taught.
-Perhaps it was the dog’s sociable feelings that led him to perform the
-kindly ceremony of “shaking hands,” or perhaps it was due to the
-instinctive good breeding which is sometimes accredited to some
-people—and why not also to some dogs? Whether politeness is a grace
-which adorns the canine character, however, is a question we hardly feel
-prepared to discuss, and it is much more probable that Master Harry, (or
-James, or whatever his name may be), with no special thought in regard
-to the matter, hit upon the secret which underlies all animal
-training—compelling obedience to a command until the command is obeyed
-without compulsion. What was more natural for our friend Harry, when he
-first gave the momentous command of “paw,” and Carlo utterly in the dark
-as to its signification, taking no notice of it—than to grip Carlo’s
-fore “limb” and give it a shake? Nothing in the world more natural. This
-is probably repeated at odd times until Carlo learns to give his paw
-when Harry says “paw,” or holds out _his_ paw.
-
-If the same paw is always given, as it will be if during the training
-that one be always taken, the dog may be taught to offer the other one
-when you ask for the “other paw,” by merely taking it a few times when
-you make the request. By using “paw” for one and “other paw” for the
-other—“paw” first—the dog will seldom get them confused. It is
-preferable and makes the performance seem better, while it is really no
-more difficult, if the words “right” and “left” are used in connection
-with the commands. It is just as easy for a dog to learn the difference
-between “right paw” and “left paw,” as between “paw” and “other paw.” It
-is well to lay extra stress upon “right” and “left” while training, and
-these words should be pronounced very distinctly. Should the dog offer
-the wrong paw merely repeat your former command until he changes it,
-then take it in your hand, call him “good dog,” and pat his head to let
-him know he has done right.
-
-A little boy of our acquaintance had a very handsome Newfoundland dog,
-and having often heard the family physician desire members of the family
-to let him feel their pulse, he thought it would be a capital idea, and
-having coaxed the cook to give him some choice bits of beef-steak, he
-commenced practice. “Let me feel your pulse, Bruno,” says he, and taking
-Bruno’s paw in his fingers he imitated the doctor with a comical
-childish assumption of professional gravity. He scarcely intended, when
-he commenced, to make Bruno _offer_ his pulse for examination at his
-desire, but Bruno was an intelligent dog and the beef-steak was very
-good, and before long he would stick his paw out as nicely as could be
-desired. Our little friend, delighted with the result of his efforts,
-lost no opportunity of showing off Bruno’s accomplishment, and the dog
-was continually holding out his “pulse” for the examination of visitors.
-The doctor calling some time after was somewhat amused at our little
-friend’s request to Bruno to “let the doctor feel your pulse,” and
-Bruno’s ready compliance therewith.
-
-We had a half-grown puppy of one of the larger breeds some years since,
-which by constant training became so used to offering his paw that he
-would do so to visitors or others without being ordered to. One day a
-strange cat intruded upon the premises, and puppy made a rush at it with
-every token of hostility. When near it, however, habit appeared to gain
-a mastery, for he held out his paw as usual. The cat being irritated by
-his previous threatening aspect merely struck at him with her claws,
-inflicting quite a severe scratch, whereupon puppy, perceiving
-politeness to be at a discount, pitched in and routed the enemy
-gallantly.
-
-
-                               TO SNEEZE.
-
-On a recent visit to a friend we came across a dog who would sneeze in a
-most natural manner whenever his master said, “Sneeze, Zip.” This being
-the only example of a dog performing this trick which we had ever seen
-we desired our friend to give us some particulars of the manner of
-teaching the trick, which he obligingly did, to this effect: “One
-afternoon, having nothing more important to do, I was amusing myself by
-bothering Zip with a long feather which I poked in his face, to induce
-him to snap at it. While doing this I by chance tickled his nose, he
-immediately commenced sneezing. Once commenced, it seemed as though he
-would never stop, and I said, rather sarcastically, ‘Sneeze, Zip.’ I
-don’t suppose my words had any effect, but he certainly did sneeze; this
-gave me the idea of teaching him to repeat it at my bidding. Armed with
-my feather I commenced operations; tickling his nose gently each time I
-repeated the command. He didn’t like the feather very well, and
-by-and-by, as though his imagination foreshadowed its effects, he would
-sneeze on having it pointed in close proximity to his nose. At odd times
-when I had a little idle time on my hands, I repeated the exercise, and
-the dog in a few weeks would sneeze very creditably when I commanded. I
-was in the habit of rewarding every first rate sneeze with a butter
-cracker, of which Zip was very fond. Zip has since had the reputation of
-suffering from severe colds in the head.”
-
-This was the only special accomplishment which Zip possessed, and
-whether this was the result of peculiarly sensitive olfactory organs or
-his master’s training we are unable to say. Of the merits of the latter
-we are not prepared to speak, having never given the system an actual
-trial, but we should imagine that such a course might succeed.
-
-
-                            TO SPEAK FOR IT.
-
-This may be taught either in connection with the preceding trick, as a
-portion of it, or by itself. If the former, it is better to let the dog
-thoroughly master the first part, begging, before it is attempted to
-teach him to “speak for it.” Take a piece of some article of food which
-he is fond of, and allowing him to see it, command him to “speak for
-it!” Of course he will not understand what you mean, and will probably
-only gaze wistfully at the morsel. By-and-by he will grow impatient and
-give vent to a sharp bark. The moment he has done this give him the
-article, for although he has not understood you he has done what you
-desired, and by rewarding him he learns that this is the case. Practice
-him a little at some of his old tricks with another reward at hand to
-encourage him. Should he try the experiment of barking while thus
-engaged no notice should be taken of it, for it is not desired that he
-should bark except he be told to, and his doing so in other cases should
-never be rewarded. When you wish it, repeat the command of “speak for
-it,” and when he obeys reward him. If at first he does not show an
-inclination to bark he may be stimulated to do so by your giving a
-“bow-wow” yourself in as doggish a manner as you are able. This
-encroachment on his language will generally have the desired effect, for
-few dogs can resist replying to this act which they no doubt deem an
-impertinent meddling with their “mother tongue.”
-
-
-                          TO FETCH AND CARRY.
-
-[Illustration: DOG TAUGHT TO CARRY BASKET.]
-
-This accomplishment may often be put to great practical use, and it is
-an excellent plan to teach all dogs, which are large enough to be of any
-service in this manner, to carry baskets or parcels when accompanying
-their masters. The mode of training is very simple, consisting of merely
-placing the article in the dog’s mouth, and when he lets go of it give
-him a slight box on the ear and replace the article in his mouth.
-Whatever is given him to carry should be of such a form as to be grasped
-easily by him without hurting his mouth or teeth. The weight should at
-first be _very_ light and _never_ more than he can easily carry. Most
-dogs will take a real pleasure in carrying articles in this manner, and
-they seem to feel the responsibility attached to their duty, for they
-will carry their own or their master’s dinner without attempting to
-appropriate any portion of it until the proper time when their share
-shall be given them. In teaching dogs to carry food, however, it is
-necessary to take a little special pains to overcome their instinctive
-inclinations to eat it. A good plan is to place the article in a covered
-basket which they cannot open, and when the dog has learned to carry an
-ordinary parcel give him this. If he attempts to get at the food, which
-he readily detects by his sense of smell, box his ears. By-and-by reward
-him with the food, and then try him with a basket from which he _can_
-abstract the contents; if he tries to do so punish him slightly, never
-permitting him to steal the food. If a dog ever deserves a reward for
-well doing he certainly does in this case, for it is too bad to
-tantalize him with the smell of some dainty and then not to let him
-finally have something for his good conduct.
-
-To make a dog carry articles from one person to another it is only
-necessary for two persons to take their position at some distance from
-one another. One gives the dog some article saying, “go, sir,” at the
-same time. As the first says this let the other person call or whistle
-to the dog. Now let this one give the dog some thing and let the other
-one call him, and so on back and forth until he will go from one to the
-other at the command, “go, sir.” The distance between the parties may be
-increased from time to time, and the trick may be varied by one of them
-hiding himself, this will teach the dog to hunt for the person to whom
-he is to deliver the article, which will prove useful when you by-and-by
-desire to send him on an actual errand to a distance.
-
-The extent to which any dog may be educated in this matter depends very
-much upon his natural intelligence and the skill and perseverance of his
-teacher. Many anecdotes are told of dogs going on errands. In some cases
-they go to the post-office for letters, in other cases to the store for
-groceries, etc., and we recollect several instances cited where dogs
-would, on being given a piece of money, go to the baker’s and purchase
-cake on their own account. The baker, in one of these instances, is said
-to have one day palmed a stale bun upon a dog who had been in the habit
-of coming to him regularly with pennies, and the animal, to show he was
-not to be imposed upon, transferred his custom to a rival establishment.
-In none of these accounts have we ever seen any mention of the dogs
-having been subjected to any special training, and it is more than
-likely that they never were. Animals, like men, are creatures of habit.
-If a man becomes accustomed to a certain routine it is difficult for him
-to change. Many merchants, retired from business, continue to pay a
-daily visit to their old offices, their brokers or lawyers, just because
-not to do so would make them uncomfortable and restless. So a dog who
-has become used to accompanying his master on any regular round of
-duties will often show that he understands where it is they are going by
-running ahead and stopping at the accustomed place. We call to mind a
-dog belonging to a gentleman residing some miles from this city, who
-will serve as an example of what we have stated, though probably all of
-our readers are familiar with instances equally, if not more,
-remarkable. The gentleman was accustomed to walk from his residence some
-half mile to take the morning train for the city, and to return by a
-particular train in the evening. The dog accompanied him to the cars in
-the morning, and would again meet him on the arrival of the train at
-night. It took him some weeks to learn when to expect his master, but
-after that he never made any mistakes.
-
-A writer in one of the magazines mentions a poodle who was in the habit
-of going to church with his master and sitting with him in the pew
-during the whole service. Sometimes his owner did not come, but the
-poodle was always promptly in his place, remaining during the service
-and departing with the rest of the congregation. One Sunday the dam at
-the head of a lake in the neighborhood gave way, and the whole road was
-inundated. The attendance at church that morning was therefore
-restricted to a few individuals who came from near by. But by the time
-the clergyman had commenced, he saw our friend the poodle coming slowly
-up the aisle dripping with water, having been obliged to swim a quarter
-of a mile to get there.
-
-It is not very difficult to teach a dog to go on errands. Suppose you
-wish him to go to market for you of a morning; take him with you
-regularly for a few mornings, letting him carry the basket. In a few
-days he will understand when you start where it is you propose to go,
-and will, perhaps, run on ahead and arrive there some minutes before
-you. It would be well on all occasions before starting to give the
-command, “Go to market,” which will accustom him to it.
-
-We do not vouch for the truth of the story of the dog who, on being
-given—when purchasing one time on his own account, with money given him
-for that purpose—a piece of meat inferior to what he considered his due,
-went and brought a policeman.
-
-
-                    TO BRING HIS TAIL IN HIS MOUTH.
-
-The dog having been taught to fetch and carry, an amusing application of
-this knowledge can be made by having him bring his own tail in his
-mouth. This trick is exceedingly funny and is always hailed with roars
-of laughter. The feat is rather difficult for while his tail is in his
-mouth, the dog can only advance in something like crab fashion, or
-sideways, with an almost irresistible tendency to go around in a circle
-without getting ahead any. To attain success in teaching this trick the
-dog must be gifted with a good deal of tail, and the trainer with a good
-deal of patience. Dogs will in play grasp their tails, and most persons
-have noticed while frolicking with a dog that if the dog’s tail be taken
-hold of with one’s hand, the dog will attempt to seize the hand with his
-mouth, and if his tail be now dexterously placed in his way, he will
-seize that. This perhaps first suggested the idea of the trick, and this
-is the initial step of the training. When the dog takes hold of his tail
-praise him, and after he has held it a little while bid him “let go,”
-and reward him. Should he relinquish his hold before you order him to,
-speak sharply to him and commence again. When he has learned to retain
-hold of his tail until ordered to relinquish it, the more difficult part
-of his lesson may be taught—the bringing it to the trainer. The trainer
-at first takes his place a few feet from the dog in the direction in
-which the dog can most easily advance, and calls the dog; should he let
-go his tail to come, he is to be scolded, and the tail replaced in his
-mouth. When he comes without letting go, he should be rewarded.
-Gradually the distance he is required to come may be increased, but it
-would be cruel to make this distance more than half a dozen yards. When
-the tail is placed in his mouth it is well to say, “Bring me your tail,”
-to accustom him to the order. By-and-by when you give this order merely
-hold his tail for him to grasp, and at last let him seize it without any
-assistance from you.
-
-
-                           THE ROLLING BALL.
-
-There are several modifications of this trick, or rather there are
-several feats all performed with this instrument—a globe of wood or
-other material some two feet in diameter. One of these feats consists in
-the dog standing with his hind feet upon the ground, and resting his
-paws on the ball, pushing it forward, or up and down an inclined plane.
-This is easily taught, and the only difficult part of the performance is
-the descent of the inclined plane, where the ball is apt to roll away
-from the animal. To teach this trick it is only requisite to place the
-dog’s paws upon the ball and set it slowly in motion; as you do this tap
-his hind legs gently from behind to urge him to step forward. It may be
-necessary to hold him in position by the nape of the neck at first, but
-he should very soon learn to retain his position without this aid. When
-he rolls the ball readily upon a level, substitute a wide plank very
-slightly inclined, up which he should be required to roll the ball.
-Increase the inclination of the plank slightly with each lesson, but the
-descent should only be attempted after he has been thoroughly drilled in
-the preceding exercises. It will be necessary to commence with a very
-slight inclination and to promptly stop the ball should the dog begin to
-lose control of it. The width of the plank may be decreased eventually
-to some ten or twelve inches.
-
-To stand entirely upon the ball while it is in motion, and to propel it
-backward and forward, and up and down the inclined plane, starting and
-stopping it as well as guiding its motions in the desired direction—is a
-more difficult feat. In this the dog must be practiced in standing upon
-the ball while it has no motion; in several lessons in this just the
-barest possible motion is to be given to the ball while a slight hold
-upon the dog’s neck keeps him in position. The motion may be slowly
-increased with each lesson, but the ball must for many lessons be held
-firmly with the hand to prevent it becoming unmanageable. When the dog
-becomes able to maintain his position he may be required to manage the
-ball without any assistance. In all cases where he gets down from the
-ball, accidentally or willfully, he should be spoken to sharply, but the
-trainer should be equally prompt to praise and reward success.
-
-
-                           TO WALK ON STILTS.
-
-The stilts used in this trick are about twelve or fifteen inches in
-length, made to fasten to the leg just below the knee joint, with tape
-or thin flexible leather straps. When four are used there is no
-particular training required to make the dog walk upon them; it being
-only necessary to put him “on his pins” again whenever he upsets. The
-tumble is sufficient punishment for his failures. Walking man fashion on
-only two stilts is a much more difficult task, though it has been
-accomplished in some cases. The dog should be first thoroughly taught
-the walking erect trick, then stilts may be put on his hind legs. A cord
-attached to his collar and held in the trainer’s hand will aid in
-maintaining the dog’s balance until he becomes accustomed to his novel
-position. Of course the dog cannot raise himself upon the stilts, but
-must be placed erect by the trainer. The farther training is similar to
-that described for teaching him to walk erect. A story is told of a dog
-who actually found a wooden leg of practical use; one having been
-furnished him by a whimsical surgeon who had amputated an injured limb
-for him.
-
-
-                      TO GO UP AND DOWN A LADDER.
-
-[Illustration: CLIMBING THE LADDER.]
-
-In teaching this trick two ladders should be provided about six feet in
-length and joined together at the top ends so as to form an angle when
-the other ends are placed on the ground. The bars of these ladders
-should be flat and sufficiently near together to enable the dog easily
-to step from one round to another. Standing at the side of this ladder
-with a switch in your right hand you whistle to the dog, or call him by
-name, and tap the first round of the ladder with your switch to indicate
-he is to step upon it. When he places his fore paws on this round, tap
-the next in the same manner, saying, “Go on,” to him. If he does not
-obey strike his hind legs lightly from behind, while you encourage him
-with your voice and snap your fingers in front of him to urge him
-forward. A tid-bit of some kind held in tempting proximity to his nose
-may have an encouraging effect. After ascending one ladder he should be
-made to go down the other. He will be inclined to jump to the ground in
-preference to descending step by step; should he do this he must be
-punished and made to commence over again. When on the ladder if he
-hesitates about proceeding gently tap the toes of the foot he should
-next advance. When two dogs have been taught to go over the ladders a
-race may be arranged, the dog who first goes three times over to be
-rewarded. The dogs will soon understand that when they are both ordered
-to go over, speed is expected; the dainty given to the winner will be an
-incentive to exertion. By making one dog go up to where the ladders
-join, turning half around and forming an arch of his body, the other dog
-can go over the ladders, passing beneath the belly of the “arch.” This
-is a very trifling feat but it generally pleases an audience.
-
-The ladder climbing forms really the principal part of the celebrated
-siege scene, performed by dogs and monkeys. This scene, we believe, was
-first enacted in London in the year 1753, by a troupe of dogs and
-monkeys which acquired considerable celebrity by their performances.
-They were owned by a lady, who had also taught them, and went by the
-name of Mrs. Midnight’s Animal Commedians. A small stage was specially
-fitted up for their performances, furnished with scenery, decorations,
-etc., and to these adjuncts was no doubt due much of the success of the
-troupe. The performance was much like modern ones; the tricks are all
-included in this chapter and the one on monkeys; the famous siege being
-only a clever combination of the different tricks. Each animal was
-taught a particular part and merely obeyed the signals of the
-exhibition.
-
-
-           TO STAND ON HIS HEAD AND TO WALK ON HIS FORE LEGS.
-
-[Illustration: WALKING ON FORE LEGS.]
-
-The term “standing on the head” is applied to a “wrong end up” position
-though the animal is actually supported by his fore paws, his head not
-necessarily touching the ground. To teach the trick, provide yourself
-with a switch twenty inches in length, and moderately stout. This
-switch, held in your right hand, you place under the dog’s belly, and
-while you raise up his hind quarters with it, you place your left hand
-on his head to keep him from moving away, and to make him retain his
-reversed position. As the dog rises into position the switch should be
-gradually carried along until it supports his hind feet. This is the
-process for the first few lessons, until the dog understands what is
-required; after that it is better merely to tap his ankles from in front
-with your switch, giving at the same time whatever order you have
-accustomed him to in teaching the trick. He should eventually take the
-position without any hint or help from the switch.
-
-When the preceeding trick is thoroughly mastered, the walking part may
-be easily added. Taking your position a little in front of your pupil
-when he is in his upside-down position, you encourage him to come to
-you. At the same time you must keep your switch in handy proximity to
-his toes, which you tap lightly on any signs of his relinquishing his
-position. By-and-by he may be made to walk quite a distance.
-
-
-                               TO “SING.”
-
-When a dog howls _in time_, we think it fair to call his performance
-“singing.” Dogs may be taught to do this; at least they have been, and
-it is reasonable to presume it may be done again. In only one case of
-this kind do we know positively the mode of tuition, but it was probably
-pretty much the same in all cases. This consisted in keeping the dog
-without food until his appetite was quite sharp. When food was shown
-him, he naturally whined for it. Now, a dog may be made to whine, howl,
-or bark, if you make any of those noises yourself; almost any dog will
-imitate you, and not only that, but the pitch and style of noise he
-makes will be somewhat regulated by that made by you. The hungry dog is
-in prime mental condition for this exercise, and if rewarded when he
-hits pretty near upon the right degree of noise, he will learn to follow
-your tones quite accurately. If exercised in a regular scale, or in a
-simple tune, he will by-and-by go through it without requiring your
-prompting, with sufficient accuracy to be recognized—if the hearers know
-beforehand what melody to expect.
-
-It is not pretended, of course, that dogs trained as above described, do
-anything but repeat a series of noises mechanically in a prescribed
-rotation. We find recorded, however, one instance of a dog learning to
-discriminate between the different notes, and to detect false ones in a
-musical performance. The story seems improbable, but may be true;
-however, it is worth telling:
-
-“Frederick Schwartz, a merchant retired from business in Darmstadt,
-occupied his leisure hours, which were many, almost exclusively with
-music. His passion for the art acquired such an intensity that he
-required every one about him to fall in with his musical predilections
-by either vocal or instrumental coöperation. Poodle, the dog, was the
-only one unable to render any musical assistance. As worthy Herr
-Schwartz felt the utter impossibility of making Poodle afford any
-practical aid, he determined to train him to fill the office of critic
-in his own harmonious community. He succeeded, too, by an ingenious
-method. Whenever a note out of tune proceeded from a voice or an
-instrument; every time that a musical fault was committed by any member
-of the family—and such faults were committed purposely—the rod was
-applied to Poodle’s back, and he naturally began to bark and howl. He
-was exactly in the position of the whipping boy, who pursued his studies
-with the royal prince. Whenever the prince made a grammatical blunder,
-the whipping boy had to smart for it. Before long, simple threats were
-substituted for smitings of his (Poodle’s) back; afterward a look
-sufficed to set the creature barking; and little by little Poodle
-familiarized himself with wrong notes and other musical atrocities,
-until at last a mistake could not be committed without his rebuking it
-either by a bark or a growl. He thus became, as far as music was
-concerned, the most impartial judge, the most conscientious critic in
-the whole grand duchy of Hesse Darmstadt.
-
-“Unfortunately, his appreciation of musical art was completely and
-solely negative. He bestowed no praise, but only blame. Sing with
-expression, perform with talent, the dog would remain impassive and
-cold; but at the slightest incorrectness of intonation he ground his
-teeth, lashed his tail, growled, yelped, and barked aloud. So long as he
-flourished—and he may flourish still—not a concert or an opera was
-rehearsed in Darmstadt without inviting Herr Frederick Schwartz and his
-dog—but more especially the dog. If the prima donna made the slightest
-slip, the dog looked at his master with an air of disapprobation. If the
-hautboys came in too late, Poodle pricked up his ears; if the clarionet
-hurried the movement, Poodle fidgeted on his bench; if the
-kettle-drummer broke the time, Poodle uttered audible murmurs. In fact,
-no piece was considered properly executed unless the canine connoisseur
-remained quiet on his seat.
-
-“Nor must it be supposed that Poodle’s instinct was limited to forming a
-judgment of the execution only. His intelligence, trained by hearing
-classical works, seemed to have penetrated some of the secrets of
-composition. An abrupt modulation, a false resolution, would produce
-symptoms of doubt on Poodle’s muzzle; consecutive fifths made him
-shudder, and a halting melody set his teeth on edge. Sometimes Herr
-Schwartz and his intimate friends, in the privacy of a snug little
-quartette party, would amuse themselves by producing discordant sounds,
-for the sake of tormenting the sensitive animal. On such occasions
-Poodle lost all self-command: his hair stood on end, his eyes became
-bloodshot, and frightful howlings answered to the discord produced by
-the fiddles of the mystificators. Moreover, they were obliged to keep
-within certain bounds. Poodle possessed only a limited stock of
-forbearance. If the cacophony was too intense or too prolonged, Poodle,
-carrying out his sense of duty, upset everything. Music-stands,
-music-stools, and instruments, were strewed in confusion about the
-room.”
-
-
-                        THE LUMP OF SUGAR TRICK.
-
-This consists in placing a lump of sugar on the dog’s nose, and having
-him toss it up and catch it in his mouth. It is not essential that sugar
-should be used; any other dainty will do as well, indeed a piece of meat
-will answer better in teaching the trick. In teaching, hold your switch
-under the dog’s chin, and tap him whenever he tries to lower his head to
-let the meat drop. If he does not presently jerk his head up, and so
-throw the morsel into the air, you should strike him under the chin a
-pretty smart rap to make him do so. When it leaves his nose there will
-be no instruction required to make him seize it promptly before it has a
-chance to reach the ground; should it, however, touch the ground, it is
-well to take it from him, and make him toss it again.
-
-
-                            TO FEIGN DEATH.
-
-A dog may be placed on his back or in almost any other posture, and by
-speaking sharply to him and threatening him with your forefinger, you
-can prevent his changing his position. In this manner the trick of
-feigning death is taught. If a special word of command be used when
-placing him, he will learn to take the position on hearing that command.
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER XI.
-     WONDERFUL FEATS PERFORMED BY DOGS—MOST CELEBRATED DOGS OF THE
-  WORLD—LEARNING THE ALPHABET—TO PLAY CARDS AND DOMINOES—TO SELECT ANY
-             ARTICLE DESIRED AND PUT IT ANYWHERE DIRECTED.
-
-
-Our last chapter gave a wide range of tricks performed by dogs, most of
-which can be taught by the amateur trainer. There is another class of
-tricks, requiring great intelligence on the part of the dog, and rare
-skill and patience on the part of the trainer, for their successful
-mastery. Though these may be beyond the abilities of ordinary dogs and
-ordinary trainers—for such feats are very rare, even in public
-exhibitions, and when performed, are looked upon almost as miracles—they
-cannot fail to prove interesting to our readers, and it is barely
-possible that some reader of this book may yet astonish the world with
-some equally proficient animal, to rival those whose deeds are herein
-recorded.
-
-The French trainers have probably brought the education of the dog to a
-point achieved in no other country, and several of these canine
-celebrities have become subjects of history. Emil de Tarade gives a very
-interesting account of two of these, the principal part of which account
-we translate, as follows:
-
-“In 1840 I was acquainted with M. Leonard, of Lisle, (an inspector of
-the revenue) who possessed two well taught dogs. Braque and Philax, as
-they were named, were two grayhounds, with large brown ears. Their eyes
-alone would tell you how much intelligence had been developed in these
-interesting animals. Words were fixed in their memory with a positive
-meaning. These dogs knew as well as we do the meaning of ‘above,’
-‘below,’ ‘before,’ ‘behind,’ etc. They made a proper application of the
-name of a color, of a number up to a certain point; knew what was meant
-by ‘parlor,’ ‘corridor,’ ‘stairs;’ knew the furniture, utensils, small
-objects of the pocket and toilet; and when one bade these dogs perform
-in the _absence_ of their master, one was seized with astonishment and
-admiration.
-
-“If you said to one: ‘Go sit down in front of the lady in the
-rose-colored dress,’ the dog went immediately to seek the lady so
-designated, seated himself upon his haunches, wagging his tail, and
-regarding the lady with a very expressive look. ‘Ask the lady for her
-thimble.’ The lady offered successively her handkerchief, gloves, etc.,
-but the animal did not move. As soon as she presented the thimble, he
-ran off, making a thousand gambols at having obtained it. After this he
-passed gravely about the room, as if to say: ‘What shall I do with it?’
-On saying to him: ‘Go to the sofa in front of the fireplace—there is a
-hat upon it—put the thimble in the hat, and carry it to the lady in
-blue,’ the dog would strictly carry out the order.
-
-“Placing a piece of meat on a piece of bread, and putting the whole into
-a corner of the room, you might say to either of these dogs: ‘Seek it!
-Seize it!’ The animal would run toward the object in question, but on
-nearing it, he would face about, seat himself before you with a pleasant
-air, as if to say: ‘I only eat what my master gives me—is Mons. Leonard
-present?’ The latter would say: ‘Leave the meat—put it on the ground—eat
-the bread.’ The order would be executed.
-
-“Both these dogs knew how to play dominoes, and this is the method in
-which it was done: One dog was made to seat himself upon a chair before
-a table on which were placed the dominoes, and opposite a human player.
-It was necessary to give the dog only four dominoes, which were laid out
-in a row, the faces toward him. If he had a double six he played it at
-once, placing it in the middle of the table. If he had not, he waited
-for his opponent to play. Then, if he had a domino proper to play, he
-did not fail to do it, though he never adjusted it nicely—contenting
-himself with placing it at the end to which it belonged. If you
-attempted to cheat, by placing a two, for instance, where a six
-belonged, he contented himself (if it was a lady) with returning the
-wrong domino; but if it was a gentleman, he accompanied the correction
-with a growl, as if to say: ‘Do not revoke, sir.’ These feats were
-performed by these dogs either in the presence or absence of their
-master.
-
-“One day, walking in the country, I asked M. Leonard to order the dogs
-to go over a fence right and left. He did so by command only, Philax
-going over on our left, and Braque on the right, as they were ordered.
-Then he ordered them to kiss each other; they pushed muzzle to muzzle in
-quite an amusing way. Another thing, the dogs were frequently sent to
-the butcher, baker, or grocer, with a basket and written message, and on
-these occasions it was only necessary to say: ‘Go to the butcher!’ ‘Go
-to the baker!’ or, ‘Go to the grocer!’ and the command was always obeyed
-without fail. On these occasions, one would carry the basket, and the
-other would act as guard.
-
-“One may see from this that if the grayhound, the least intelligent of
-his kind, is capable of such instruction, all dogs are capable of being
-taught to do things which seem apparently impossible.”
-
-Still another French celebrity of the canine kind is described by a
-writer in Le Siecle, a Paris journal. Mlle. Bianca, as she was called,
-one of the pug breed, created quite a sensation among amusement seekers
-at the time she was exhibited, and her wonderful feats were witnessed by
-large audiences. We did not see her performance, but have been assured
-by persons who did, that the following, though perhaps a little highly
-colored—as is the habit of most French writers—is yet substantially an
-accurate description of the dog’s feats. Le Siecle’s reporter says:
-
-“As most of the Parisian papers have mentioned this little phenomenon,
-who reminds the public of the genius of the illustrious Munito, I, in
-turn, wished to make Mlle. Bianca’s acquaintance. She did me the honor
-to accord a private audience to me, for which I am extremely grateful.
-To see artists on the theater of their exploits is doubtless very
-agreeable, but to be introduced into their intimate circle of
-friendship, is still more precious. If these lines should fall under
-Mlle. Bianca’s eyes—as it is not improbable, for artists generally do
-not disdain to read newspapers where their merits are vaunted—she may
-see that, though I am only a man, may hert is no stranger to every
-sentiment of gratitude. Let me say, in the first place, in praise of my
-heroine, that her modesty exceeds even that of male and female literary
-people, who are, as everybody knows, a most modest race. Vanity, that
-horrible fault which some observers have insisted they were able to
-detect in some men and women—fortunately extremely rare—is no canine
-vice; and great as are Mlle. Bianca’s talents, she remains what nature
-made her—simple and good natured, and as sprightly as beautiful.
-
-“She reads fluently, writes in her way, corrects faults of orthography,
-takes part in a game of ecarte, forms a bouquet by the names of flowers
-or their colors, and barks, or at least is familiar with, nineteen
-languages. Even if we admit the natural affection which Mlle. Bianca’s
-professor has for his excellent pupil has betrayed him into exaggerating
-the talents of Mlle. Bianca some fifteen more tongues than she really
-possesses, nevertheless she will still be a most distinguished
-polyglotist. This I can affirm. I gave her the English word ‘God’ to
-translate into Latin. She instantly, and without hesitation, composed
-the word ‘Deus.’ This is her modus operandi: She is placed on a table
-sufficiently large to allow her to move easily in every direction. She
-is in the center of the table. All around her are small bits of
-pasteboard, bearing each a letter of the alphabet. When a spectator
-gives a word, or asks for a translation, Mlle. Bianca seems to think a
-moment, half closes her eyes, like a poet hunting for a rhyme, and moves
-around the table, taking pasteboard, letter after letter, until she
-completes the word. She does this quietly, easily, without ever being
-betrayed into hurry. The word formed, she gravely takes her seat and
-gives one bark, as a printer places a period at the end of a sentence.
-She plays cards, and forms nosegays in the same way. While this
-intellectual animal is at work, her master stands motionless, some three
-or four paces from the table, but does not say a word. He sometimes
-disappears entirely behind a door, and Mlle. Bianca works wonders as
-effectually as when he is present. I said to her tutor: ‘So your dog
-really reads and understands what is said to her?’
-
-“‘How can you doubt it, as you see she does so as well when I am absent
-as when I am by her side?’
-
-“‘She really is the worthy peer of Munito, the Newton of the canine
-race.’
-
-“‘Munito!’ quickly exclaimed Mlle. Bianca’s tutor, his lip curling with
-contempt as he spoke. ‘Munito was a miserable humbug; one of those dogs
-who abuse the public credulity.’
-
-“‘What? Munito a humbug? You astound me!’
-
-“‘Yes, sir; and were Munito here, I should tell him so to his face.
-Impostors and dogs of real talents should not be confounded. Munito did
-not know B from a bull’s foot, while Bianca has learned by rule. What
-she knows, she knows thoroughly.’
-
-“‘Is it possible Munito knew nothing, and merely concerted with his
-master to appear learned?’
-
-“‘You have hit the nail on the head.’
-
-“‘Do you mean to tell me there are pseudo savants among dogs? I thought
-men had a monopoly of that plague.’
-
-“‘Dogs don’t escape it.’
-
-“‘Good heavens! can a fellow trust neither man nor dog? Do enter into
-particulars; and since I am doomed, it seems, to lose one more illusion,
-let the loss, at least, turn to the profit of my knowledge.’
-
-“‘I, too, was a dupe to Munito’s merits; but one fine morning the scales
-fell from my eyes, and I discovered the truth. Like my Bianca—forgive me
-the odious comparison, dear!—Munito stood in the center of a circle
-formed of bits of pasteboard bearing letters, or figures, or colors. I
-grant you, Munito had a good deal of brains; he was no fool, I admit,
-and his ear was exquisitely delicate. Had he been trained by a good
-method, he would have attained high rank; but his master, who was an
-Italian, preferred turning his delicacy of hearing to profit, rather
-than bringing him up by rule.’
-
-“‘Ah! Munito was no classic. But, pray tell me, did he then belong to
-the romantic school?’
-
-“‘Not a bit more than he belonged to the classical school. All his
-talents lay in obeying his master’s signals. Munito walked gravely
-around the table, assuming the airs of a member of the French academy;
-but incapable as he was of reading or distinguishing colors, he never
-stopped to pick up the bit of pasteboard except when his master gave him
-the signal. Munito’s master stood with his hand in his breeches pocket.
-He would snap a finger nail or a tooth pick, and this click, though so
-slight as to escape the attention of the spectators, was caught by the
-dog’s ear, and who instantly received the reward of his criminal comedy.
-He was given a bonbon. Do you know of what that so-called bonbon was
-made? ’Twas nothing but bread and meat hashed fine and rolled in the
-shape of a ball; but there was no more sugar in it than there is in a
-black draught. Such cheating really deserves the brand of history. If
-you think I speak harshly of Munito, my excuse is, he is dead. We owe
-nothing but truth to dead dogs as well as dead men.’”
-
-The reader will perceive that, for the best results, a systematic course
-of education is necessary rather than the teaching of a mere trick, to
-be performed at a recognized signal from the trainer. Presuming that the
-dog has been taught to fetch and carry, as described in the preceding
-chapter, and may thereby be considered to be well up in the rudiments of
-canine education, the following, which may be termed the “classical”
-course, would be the system of instruction—it is, indeed, the same as
-was pursued with Braque and Philax:
-
-Having taught your dog the meaning of the words, “go fetch it,” “bring
-it,” “drop it,” “bring it back,” you will next teach him the names of
-different articles. Let us first take a handkerchief, and placing it
-upon the ground, order him to “bring the handkerchief,” until the name
-is impressed on his memory. Now we will add a glove, and direct the dog
-to “bring the glove.” Should he bring the handkerchief instead, we scold
-him, but should he bring the glove, we reward him. When he has
-thoroughly learned to distinguish these articles by name, a key may be
-added, and the same method of teaching continued. One by one other
-articles may be added, until the number is sufficiently large to make
-the trick entertaining. When he has been exercised in picking out on
-command the desired article from those-placed on the ground, hide one of
-them, and, calling the hidden article by name, order him to bring it.
-If, after examining the objects before him, he shows by his distressed
-looks that he knows the article required is not among the others, you
-may be assured he has thoroughly acquired his lesson. If he brings a
-_wrong_ article, it is certain that either he is careless, or not
-sufficiently drilled.
-
-Differences of color come next. Take, for example, a red, white, or blue
-handkerchief, and placing it on the ground, direct the dog to bring it,
-calling it by _color_ as well as name. At first he will bring it,
-because he knows what the word “handkerchief” means, and without giving
-consideration to the color; but when you add a handkerchief of a
-different color, still ordering him to bring the former one, he will
-remember the new word and its application to the right handkerchief.
-Supposing you have commenced with the red one, and have added the white,
-should he bring the white, you say sternly, “No! the _red_
-handkerchief,” making him replace the white, and bring the red. Now
-repeat the lesson, calling at will for first one and then the other,
-until he makes no mistakes. Then add the blue handkerchief, and repeat
-the lesson. Gloves of various colors may then be added, one by one, in
-all cases naming the _color_ as well as the article when directing him
-to bring it. The number of objects may be increased to whatever extent
-the patience of the trainer and the capacity of the pupil will admit of.
-
-After that it will be found convenient to teach him the names of the
-more common articles of furniture. Pointing to a table, you will say to
-him: “Go to the table.” The motion of your hand will probably direct him
-to the designated spot; and by repeating the lesson, he will learn to
-associate the name of “table” with that article. Of course, “chair,”
-“sofa,” and other objects may be added as he progresses.
-
-Then he may be taught to distinguish between the meanings of such words
-as “on,” “under,” etc. This is done by emphasizing the prepositions as:
-“Put the glove _on_ the chair;” “Put the handkerchief _under_ the
-table,” etc., in each case repeating the order until he obeys correctly.
-If all preceding lessons have been thorough, he will readily comprehend
-all of the order but the _new_ part, and as his attention will only be
-required by that, he will soon learn it. Then the titles of individuals,
-as “lady,” “gentleman,” and “child,” may be taught in the same manner,
-reproving his failures and rewarding his successful attempts.
-
-To secure a valuable dog against accidental or malicious injury from
-poisonous or improper food, it is well to accustom him to take his food
-from the hand of his master, or some other trustworthy person, and never
-to eat anything unless it be so given. This is the foundation of several
-tricks spoken of in a preceding page. After the dog’s intelligence has
-been so cultivated that he quickly understands your wishes, and has
-become accustomed to rendering implicit obedience thereto, place within
-his reach a piece of meat, or a saucer of milk, and order him not to
-touch it. Then retire to a short distance, but be ready to check any
-attempt to seize the food, by repeating the command, “Don’t touch it,”
-and by force if necessary. Do not tantalize him too long, but soon give
-him some tid-bit as a reward for his self-control, and repeat the
-lesson. By-and-by he may be left alone, at first only for a few minutes,
-then for a longer and longer time.
-
-It is possible—and, indeed, it is the common method—to teach a dog to
-pick out any desired letters from a number of printed cards, in
-obedience to signals given by the exhibitor. This method of training is
-essentially the same as that adopted with the “educated hog;” so it is
-unnecessary to describe it here. But dogs, as in the case of those
-described in the preceding pages, may be taught to _know_ the letters,
-and to recognize them when named; so that the performance can be
-conducted more openly, and without risk of the clap-trap of signals
-being detected.
-
-But how is this to be taught? Why, very much as a child is taught—by
-constant drilling until the name and looks of each letter are perfectly
-associated together. Pieces of pasteboard should be provided, on each of
-which one letter is marked large and plain. Placing the A and B cards
-side by side, tell the dog to bring you the A. If he brings the B, scold
-him; make him return it to its place, and again order him to bring the
-A. As soon as he does so, pat him, speak encouragingly to him, and
-repeat the lesson, not calling the letters in any regular rotation, but
-at random. Add letter by letter each day as the dog learns thoroughly
-those already given him, until he can select without hesitation any
-letter of the alphabet that may be called for. He may then be made to
-spell words by your calling the letters composing them. If thoroughly
-trained, he will bring the proper letters when shown a card on which the
-word you desire him to spell is printed. Of course, only capitals should
-be used in these exercises, for otherwise the labor of teaching would be
-doubled, besides confusing the dog between capitals and small letters,
-without gaining anything.
-
-On the same principle the dog may be taught what, with a little license,
-may be called playing cards. Pieces of pasteboard several times the size
-of ordinary playing cards should be provided, one side of each being
-printed to represent one card. As with the letters, these cards are to
-be placed on the floor, at first only two, then three, increasing the
-number as the dog learns those already shown him. Suppose the ace of
-clubs and the ace of hearts be used to commence with: direct the dog to
-bring the ace of clubs; if he does so, reward him, but if he brings the
-heart, scold him, and order him to return it; again directing him to
-bring the ace of clubs. So on with each lesson until he can distinguish
-between all the cards, and bring any one desired. After this, cards a
-little smaller may be substituted for those at first used, and then
-smaller and smaller ones until the customary playing cards are used. We
-give this feat on the authority of M. de Tarade, never having personally
-seen it performed, but it is really not so difficult as might at first
-be imagined; the dog, even to know the whole pack, needing only to learn
-the thirteen _values_ of the cards, and to then distinguish between the
-four suits.[2]
-
-Footnote 2:
-
-  Even this would be a greater feat of intelligence than we have ever
-  seen exhibited by a dog, and we are inclined to think there was some
-  aid afforded in this case of the French dogs, by arranging the cards
-  systematically, or by some other means. It is harder to count (or to
-  distinguish between) the number of dots, than to distinguish between a
-  blue handkerchief and a red stocking. The dog who is described as
-  playing dominoes, it should be remembered, used only four pieces at
-  one time. Possibly the dog recognized the cards by the _general_
-  appearance of each, not the number of spots thereon.
-
-The “playing” part consists in the trainer directing the dog to bring
-the particular card required; wherever it is pretended that the dog of
-his own accord selects the proper card for taking a trick, there is
-really deception; the dog in such a case must be secretly directed by
-signals which he has been taught to obey.
-
-To teach a dog to play dominoes, provide some pieces of board or thick
-card, some eight or ten inches long, on which paint conspicuously in
-black the required dots. Having provided two sets in this manner, spread
-one set upon the floor, and taking in your hand the blank domino of the
-other set, you say: “Bring the white.” Being familiar, from his previous
-training, with the color, he will doubtless select the correct domino.
-Then you show him the one spot, directing him to “bring the one.” Should
-he hesitate, repeat the command, showing him the spot on the domino in
-your hand. As soon as he has learned this difference, cease your
-instruction for the day, as it is unwise to attempt to go too fast. On
-the next day the two, three, and four may be included in the lesson; and
-so on each day, adding two or three, until the whole are learned. Having
-learned so much, the dog is prepared to play a game of dominoes, for the
-game consists merely in matching certain pieces.
-
-Munito, the dog to whom reference is made in a preceding page, was a
-French poodle, very handsome, with a fine silky, white, woolly coat,
-half shaved. A gentleman who saw him exhibited in Piccadilly, London,
-nearly fifty years ago, thus describes his performance, disclosing at
-the same time the secrets thereof:
-
-“He performed many curious feats, answering questions, telling the hour
-of the day, the day of the week, or date of the month, and picking out
-any cards called for from a pack spread on the ground. At the corner of
-the room was a screen, behind which the dog and his master disappeared
-between each feat for a short time. We watched him narrowly; but it was
-not until after our second visit that the mystery was solved. There were
-packs of ordinary cards, and other cards with figures, and others with
-single letters. One of the spectators was requested to name a card—say
-the queen of clubs—the pack was spread on the floor in a circle, faces
-upward. Munito went around the circle, came to the queen of clubs,
-pounced upon it, and brought it in his mouth to his master. The same
-process was repeated with the cards with figures, when he brought the
-exact numbers which answered the questions put as to dates, or days, or
-hours; in the same way with the letter cards, when he picked out the
-necessary letters to spell any short word called for, always making a
-full circle of the whole of the cards for each letter, or for each
-number, and never taking up two letters or two numbers consecutively,
-though they might chance to lie close together. This fact we made out at
-the first visit, but nothing more. On the second occasion we watched
-more narrowly, and with that object took a side seat, so that we had a
-partial view behind the screen. We then noticed that between each feat
-the master gave the dog some small bits of some sort of food, and that
-there was a faint smell of aniseed from that corner of the room. We
-noticed that the dog, as he passed around the circle of cards, with his
-nose down, and his eyes directed to the ground, never pounced on the
-right card as his eyes covered it, but turned back and picked it out. It
-was clear that he chose it by the smell, and not by the sense of sight.
-We recalled that, each time before the dog began his circuit, the master
-arranged and settled the cards, and we then found that he pressed the
-fleshy part of his thumb on the particular card the dog was to draw,
-which thumb he previously put into his waistcoat pocket for an instant;
-and as he passed close to us, his waistcoat had an aniseed scent.”
-
-Dogs have been made to take part in stage representations, their
-performances being but applications of simple tricks taught in our tenth
-chapter. The good dog who recognizes the murderer of his master and
-seizes him by the throat; the other good dog who prevents an
-assassination by flying at the would-be assassin, and having a scuffle;
-and the still other good dog who rescues the child from drowning, or
-some other impending danger, are all “worked” by signals, or obey
-understood commands—the actor’s “cue” serving as well as any other word.
-
-An amusing story is told of an accident which befell a penurious manager
-of a minor play-house, in endeavoring to avoid an engagement with the
-owner of the wonderful dogs, when _their_ services and not _his_ were to
-constitute the principal attraction. The owner persisted; it must be his
-dogs _and_ himself, or no dogs at all; the sagacious animals would
-perform their marvels with no one else. The huckstering manager doubted
-this, and craved permission to try whether, by running across the room,
-and using the words repeated by the owner in the play, one of the
-animals would not seize _him_ by the coat collar as well, without doing
-him any injury. The master consented, but the experiment failed
-entirely. The dog remained doggedly motionless. “It strikes me,” said
-the disappointed manager, “that if you were to say, ‘Go, sir!’ in a
-harsh tone, when I repeat the words, that he would at once perform the
-feat.” “Very well, sir,” replied the owner, “we will try the experiment,
-if you wish it.” The preliminaries were again gone through with; and the
-master said, “Go, sir!” The gigantic dog _did_ go with a vengeance. He
-dashed off like an arrow; seized the manager by the nape of his neck,
-threw him violently on the floor, and giving two or three tremendous
-growls, seemed on the point of making mince-meat of his prey, who,
-petrified with fright, was glad enough to be rescued, and to permit the
-master to perform with his dogs, and on his own terms. He never was
-quite satisfied, however, that there was not some _peculiarity_ in the
-“Go, sir,” used on that particular occasion.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER XII.
-    TAMING AND TRAINING ELEPHANTS—CAPTURE AND TREATMENT—ELEPHANTS AS
-                   LABORERS AND AS CIRCUS PERFORMERS.
-
-
-In telling how elephants are trained, so interwoven is our subject with
-that of the capture of the animals, that perhaps our best plan will be
-to take a hint from Mrs. Glass’s recipe for cooking the hare, viz.,
-catch him first—and commence with the capture of the animals. Although
-authentic instances are on record of elephants breeding in captivity, it
-is of very rare occurrence, so that, practically, it may be said that
-the entire supply of domesticated elephants has been obtained by
-conversion from a wild state.
-
-The device of taking them in pitfalls still prevails in India, but this
-is a laborious operation, often unsuccessful, owing to the caution of
-the animal; besides this, if caught, the great weight of the elephant,
-and the inability of his legs to withstand any severe direct shock, too
-frequently cause so much injury to the game as to render this mode of
-capture unprofitable. A writer on Ceylon, nearly two hundred years ago,
-describes another method which is still practiced. Describing the
-captures of elephants for the stud of the king of Kandy, he says:
-
-“After discovering the retreat of such as have tusks, unto these they
-drive some she elephants, which they bring with them for the purpose,
-which, when once the males have got a sight of they will never leave,
-but follow them wheresoever they go; and the females are so used to it,
-that they will do whatsoever, either by word or beck, their keepers bid
-them. And so they delude them along through towns and countries, and
-through the streets of the city, even to the very gates of the king’s
-palace, where sometimes they seize them by snares, and sometimes by
-driving them into a kind of pound, they catch them.”
-
-Throughout the China-Indian peninsula the natives use female elephants
-in approaching males detached from the herd, or selected as desired
-captives on account of their beauty—the capture being effected by
-casting a noose over the foot of the victim. Probably, however, the
-Moormen of Ceylon are unexcelled in daring or adroitness in this
-vocation. So fearless are these professional catchers, or panickeas as
-they are termed, that two will, without aid or attendants, attempt the
-capture of the largest sized elephant. Their only weapon is a flexible
-rope of deer’s or buffalo’s hide. Stealing behind the animal when at
-rest, or stealthily following in his footsteps if in motion, they attach
-this rope to his hind legs. When at rest the elephant has a habit of
-swinging his hind feet, which aids the catchers in slipping the noose
-over the leg. Should the noosing be effected in open ground where there
-is no tree to which to secure the prize, one man allows himself to be
-pursued by the enraged elephant, and thus entices him to a more
-favorable locality, where the other man seizes the trailing rope and
-winds it around some convenient tree. The animal now turns upon his new
-assailant, but the first provokes him with gesticulations and taunting
-shouts of “dah! dah!” of which word the animal has a remarkable dislike.
-Meanwhile, the man’s comrade has secured the first noose, entangles one
-foot after the other until all are secured, and the capture complete.
-
-Then a shelter of branches is put up for the men, and day and night they
-remain encamped before their prisoner. The elephant, in a few days at
-the farthest, becomes submissive, subdued by exhaustion and hunger, the
-terror of the fire which he dreads, and the smoke which he detests. Then
-an abundance of plantains and other dainties are given him, he is
-supplied with plenty of water, of which he is very fond, and gradually
-he becomes reconciled to his keepers, and finally they venture to start
-with their huge prisoner for their own village, generally many miles
-away, with forests and jungles intervening. Still too morose to permit
-his captors to ride him, and too powerful to be led or driven, this
-forced march taxes the ingenuity of the hunters to the utmost.
-Alternately vexing and eluding him, they keep his attention constantly
-attracted, and so induce him to move in the desired direction. The rope
-with which the capture was effected is of some assistance, besides being
-used to tie up the animal at night, and this is never removed from his
-leg until he is sufficiently tame to be entrusted with partial liberty.
-
-[Illustration: GROUND PLAN OF A CORRAL.]
-
-[Illustration: METHOD OF FENCING A CORRAL.]
-
-Frequently a whole herd, numbering from thirty to one hundred
-individuals, is captured at once, but in this case a different plan from
-the foregoing is adopted. The custom in Bengal is to construct a strong
-enclosure (called a keddah) in the heart of the forest, formed of the
-trunks of trees firmly secured by transverse beams and buttresses, and
-leaving a gate for the entrance of the elephants. A second enclosure,
-opening from the first, contains water (if possible a rivulet;) this
-again communicates with a third, which terminates in a funnel-shaped
-passage, too narrow to admit of an elephant turning, and within this the
-captives being driven in line, are secured with ropes introduced from
-the outside, and led away in custody of tamed ones trained for the
-purpose. The keddah being prepared, the first operation is to drive the
-elephants toward it, for which purpose vast bodies of men fetch a
-compass in the forest around the haunts of the herds, contracting it by
-degrees till they complete the enclosure of a certain area, round which
-they kindle fires, and cut footpaths through the jungle, to enable the
-watchers to communicate and combine. All this is performed in cautious
-silence and by slow approaches, to avoid alarming the herd. A fresh
-circle nearer to the keddah is then formed in the same way, and into
-this the elephants are admitted from the first one, the hunters
-following from behind, and lighting new fires around the newly enclosed
-space. Day after day the process is repeated; till the drove having been
-brought sufficiently close to make the final rush, the whole party close
-in from all sides, and with drums, guns, shouts, and flambeaux, force
-the terrified animals to enter the fatal enclosure, when the passage is
-barred behind them, and retreat rendered impossible. Their efforts to
-escape are repressed by the crowd, who drive them back from the stockade
-with spears and flaming torches; and at last compel them to pass on into
-the second enclosure. Here they are detained for a short time, and their
-feverish exhaustion relieved by free access to water—until at last,
-being tempted by food, or otherwise induced to trust themselves in the
-narrow outlet, they are one after another made fast by ropes, passed in
-through the palisade, and picketed in the adjoining woods to enter on
-their course of systematic training. These arrangements vary in
-different districts of Bengal; and the method adopted in Ceylon differs
-in many essential particulars from them all; the keddah, or, as it is
-here called, the corral or korahl (from the Portuguese curral, a
-“cattle-pen,”) consists of but one enclosure instead of three. A stream
-or watering place is not uniformly enclosed within it, because, although
-water is indispensable after the long thirst and exhaustion of the
-captives, it has been found that a pond or rivulet within the corral
-itself adds to the difficulty of leading them out, and increases their
-reluctance to leave it; besides which, the smaller ones are often
-smothered by the others in their eagerness to crowd into the water. The
-funnel-shaped outlet is also dispensed with, as the animals are liable
-to bruise and injure themselves within the narrow stockade; and should
-one of them die in it, as is too often the case in the midst of the
-struggle, the difficulty of removing so great a carcass is extreme. The
-noosing and securing them, therefore, takes place in Ceylon within the
-area of the first enclosure into which they enter, and the dexterity and
-daring displayed in this portion of the work far surpasses that of
-merely attaching the rope through the openings of the paling, as in an
-Indian keddah, and affords a much more exciting sport.
-
-In Ceylon, in former times, the work connected with these hunts was
-performed by forced labor extorted from the natives by their sovereigns
-as a part of the feudal service termed “rajakaríya,” and this labor was
-in succession demanded by the Portuguese, Dutch and English, as the
-island passed successively into their possession. Since the abolition of
-this compulsory duty, there has been no difficulty in securing all
-required assistance voluntarily. From fifteen hundred to two thousand
-men are required to construct the corral, drive in the elephants,
-maintain the cordon of watch-fires and watchers, and attend to other
-duties. Many weeks are occupied in putting up the stockades, cutting
-paths through the jungle, and surrounding and driving in the elephants.
-
-[Illustration: POSITION OFTEN TAKEN IN ATTEMPTING TO BREAK THE ROPE.]
-
-In selecting the scene for an elephant hunt a position is chosen which
-lies on some old and frequented route of the animals, in their
-periodical migrations in search of forage and water; and the vicinity of
-a stream is indispensable, not only for the supply of the elephants
-during the time spent in inducing them to approach the enclosure, but to
-enable them to bathe and cool themselves throughout the process of
-training after capture. In constructing the corral itself, care is taken
-to avoid disturbing the trees or the brushwood within the included
-space, and especially on the side by which the elephants are to
-approach, where it is essential to conceal the stockade as much as
-possible by the density of the foliage. The trees used in the structure
-are from ten to twelve inches in diameter; and are sunk about three feet
-in the earth, so as to leave a length of from twelve to fifteen feet
-above ground; with spaces between each stanchion sufficiently wide to
-permit a man to glide through. The uprights are made fast by transverse
-beams, to which they are lashed securely by ratans and flexible climbing
-plants, or as they are called, “jungle ropes,” and the whole is steadied
-by means of forked supports which grasp the tie beams, and prevent the
-work from being driven outward by the rush of the wild elephants.
-
-The space enclosed varies, but 500 feet in length by 250 wide is a fair
-average. At one end an entrance is left open, fitted with sliding bars,
-so prepared as to be capable of being instantly shut; and from each
-angle of the end by which the elephants were to approach, two lines of
-the same strong fencing were continued, and cautiously concealed by the
-trees, so that the animals would be prevented from making their escape
-at the sides while being forced forward to the entrance of the corral.
-
-The corral being prepared, the beaters address themselves to driving in
-the elephants. For this purpose it is often necessary to make a circuit
-of many miles in order to surround a sufficient number, and the caution
-to be observed involves patience and delay; as it is essential to avoid
-alarming the animals, who might otherwise escape. Their disposition
-being essentially peaceful, and their only impulse to browse in solitude
-and security, they withdraw instinctively before the slightest
-intrusion, and advantage is taken of this timidity and love of seclusion
-to cause only just such an amount of disturbance as will induce them to
-retire slowly in the direction which it is desired they should take.
-Several herds are by this means concentrated within such an area as will
-admit of their being completely surrounded by the watchers; and day
-after day, by slow degrees, they are moved gradually onward toward the
-immediate confines of the corral. When their suspicions become awakened
-and they exhibit restlessness and alarm, bolder measures are adopted for
-preventing their escape. Fires are kept burning at ten paces apart,
-night and day, along the circumference of the area within which they are
-detained. At last the elephants are forced onward so close to the
-enclosure, that the investing cordon is united at either end with the
-wings of the corral, the whole forming a circuit of about two miles,
-within which the herd is detained to await the signal for the final
-drive.
-
-Suddenly the signal is given, and the silence is broken by shouts from
-the guard, the banging of drums and tom-toms, and the discharge of
-muskets. Amid this noise the elephants are driven forward to and through
-the gate, which is instantly closed to cut off their retreat. In a
-moment more they rush wildly about the enclosure, trampling the
-brushwood beneath their ponderous tread, and charge against the
-palisades, screaming with rage at each unsuccessful effort. By degrees
-their efforts slacken, and in about an hour the whole herd, exhausted
-and stupified, stand motionless.
-
-[Illustration: SECURING CAPTURED ELEPHANTS WITH THE AID OF THE TAME
-ONES.]
-
-The next operation is to introduce the tame elephants into the corral to
-aid in securing the captives. Cautiously the bars which secure the
-entrance are let down, and the trained elephants, each mounted by its
-mahout and one attendant, enter the corral. Around the elephant’s neck
-is a strong collar composed of ropes of coconut fiber, from which hangs
-on either side cords of elk’s hide prepared with a ready noose.
-Gradually each trained animal approaches one of the wild ones, until
-being sufficiently near, the nooser watching his opportunity, slips the
-noose over one of its legs. Immediately the tame elephant retires with
-its riders, drawing the rope tight, and hauling the captive toward some
-large tree. In this the other tame animals lend assistance, pushing with
-their heads and shoulders. The first tame one now winds the rope around
-the tree, and the others crowd up to the wild animal, and keep him in
-position while his other legs are being secured. The tame elephants in
-all these proceedings appear to feel a sportsman’s interest, and are as
-eager to secure the victim as are their human assistants. Of their own
-accord they will perform any act which reason would naturally suggest
-for overcoming any difficulty that arises, or which seems necessary
-under any given circumstances. Thus Major Skinner relates an instance
-where a wild elephant raised with her trunk the rope which had been
-attached to her foot, succeeded in carrying it to her mouth, and would
-have bitten it through and escaped, but was prevented by a tame elephant
-placing his foot on the rope, and pressing it downward out of her jaws.
-On another occasion, the same authority says a tame animal watched her
-opportunity, and placed her foot under that of the wild one as he raised
-it, so as to prevent his replacing it upon the ground, enabling the
-nooser to attach the rope.
-
-In all this though the tame elephants bend all their energies to
-securing the captives, and seem to really enjoy what is going on, they
-show no malignity, carefully avoid doing any injury to the prisoners,
-and even when it is necessary in binding new animals to walk over those
-already secured—usually sprawling on the ground struggling to get
-free—they take the utmost pains not to tread on them.
-
-When first secured, the elephant struggles fiercely to break his bonds,
-writhing in a manner one would think impossible for so bulky and
-unwieldly an animal. Failing in this, he seems to give way to despair,
-and utters the most pitiable moans. Food is now placed within their
-reach, which at first they spurn indignantly, the older ones frequently
-trampling it under foot. The milder ones, as they become composed, allow
-themselves to be tempted by the delicacies before them, and commence
-listlessly chewing the juicy morsels. The mellow notes of a kandyan
-flute sometimes aid in soothing and composing the captives. It may be
-remarked that elephants are greatly influenced by music, being soothed
-and quieted by soft plaintive melodies, while it is also recorded that
-in the old wars in which they were used, their courage in battle was
-excited by the martial strains.
-
-The last operation of the corral is to slacken the ropes and march each
-captive elephant down to the river between two tame ones. Both of the
-tame elephants are furnished with strong collars, and a similar collar
-is formed on the neck of the wild one, who stands between them, by
-successive coils of coconut; then these collars are connected, and the
-prisoner made secure between his guards. Then the nooses which have
-confined his feet are removed, and the three animals march to the river,
-where they are allowed to bathe. After the bath the captive elephant is
-made fast to some tree in the forest, keepers are assigned to him, as
-well as a retinue of leaf-cutters, whose duty it is to keep him supplied
-with such food as he most relishes. These arrangements being made, he is
-left to the care of his new masters, who will see that he is trained up
-in the way he should go.
-
-
-                  THE WAY THAT ELEPHANTS ARE TRAINED.
-
-It is a very general impression that the training of these huge and
-powerful animals is a work of great difficulty and tediousness. This is
-a mistake. Elephants are naturally of a mild and docile nature, although
-hunters and travelers, to add luster to their own exploits, have
-represented them otherwise. Even the notorious “rogues”[3] are not such
-wholly bad fellows as has been asserted by some of these writers, and
-the Mayne Reid style of natural history must be taken with considerable
-allowance. In their wild state it is very seldom that they attack any
-person or animal, unless provoked or assailed, and even when some heroic
-hunter sneaks up to shoot them unawares, or from some secure position
-peppers them with his rifle, the animals usually appear only anxious to
-escape from their aggressor.[4]
-
-Footnote 3:
-
-  Most readers are familiar with the term “rogue” as applied to
-  elephants, but probably some are not aware of its exact meaning. A
-  _herd_ of elephants is a family, and not a group collected by accident
-  or attachment. The usual number of individuals in a herd is from ten
-  to twenty, though the latter number is sometimes exceeded. In their
-  visits to water-courses and migrations, alliances are formed between
-  members of different herds, thus introducing new blood into the
-  family. If an individual becomes separated from his herd, however, he
-  is not permitted to introduce himself into another. He may browse in
-  their vicinity, or resort to the same stream to bathe or drink, but
-  farther than this no acquaintance is allowed. An elephant who has lost
-  his herd, and is by this habit of exclusiveness made an outcast, is a
-  “rogue,” and this ban under which he suffers tends to excite that
-  moroseness and savageness for which rogues are noted. Another
-  conjecture is, that as rogues are almost always males, the death or
-  capture of particular females has led them to leave their herds to
-  seek new alliances. A tame elephant escaping from captivity, unable to
-  find his former companions, becomes of necessity a rogue.
-
-Footnote 4:
-
-  We could never experience any other feelings than disgust at the
-  cruelty, and pity for the animals, at reading the sickening details
-  with which, with a slaughter-house gusto, certain heroes have graced
-  the narratives of their exploits. Gordon Cummings gives an account of
-  his pursuit of a wounded elephant which he had lamed by lodging a ball
-  in its shoulder blade. It limped slowly toward a tree, against which
-  it leaned itself in helpless agony, whilst its pursuer seated himself
-  in front of it, in safety, to boil his coffee, and observe its
-  sufferings. The story is continued as follows: “Having admired him for
-  a considerable time, I resolved to make experiments on vulnerable
-  points; and approaching very near I fired several bullets at different
-  parts of his enormous skull. He only acknowledged the shots by a
-  salaam-like movement of his trunk, with the point of which he gently
-  touched the wounds with a striking and peculiar action. Surprised and
-  shocked at finding that I was only prolonging the sufferings of the
-  noble beast, which bore its trials with such dignified composure, I
-  resolved to finish the proceeding with all possible despatch, and
-  accordingly opened fire upon him from the left side, aiming at the
-  shoulder. I first fired six shots with the two-grooved rifle, which
-  must have eventually proved mortal. After which I fired six shots at
-  the same part with the Dutch six-pounder. Large tears now trickled
-  from his eyes, which he slowly shut and opened, his colossal frame
-  shivered convulsively, and falling on his side, he expired.”
-
-  In another place, after detailing the manner in which he assailed a
-  poor animal, he says: “I was loading and firing as fast as could be,
-  sometimes at the head, sometimes behind the shoulder, until my
-  elephant’s forequarter was a mass of gore: notwithstanding which he
-  continued to hold on, leaving the grass and branches of the forest
-  scarlet in his wake. * * * * * Having fired thirty-five rounds with my
-  two-grooved rifle, I opened upon him with the Dutch six-pounder, and
-  when forty bullets perforated his hide, he began for the first time to
-  evince signs of a dilapidated constitution.” The disgusting
-  description is closed thus: “Throughout the charge he repeatedly
-  cooled his person with large quantities of water, which he ejected
-  from his trunk over his sides and back, and just as the pangs of death
-  came over him, he stood trembling violently beside a thorn tree, and
-  kept pouring water into his bloody mouth until he died, when he
-  pitched heavily forward with the whole weight of his fore-quarters
-  resting on the points of his tusks. The strain was fair, and the tusks
-  did not yield; but the portion of his head in which the tusks were
-  imbedded, extending a long way above the eye, yielded and burst with a
-  muffled crash.”
-
-  “Sport” is noble, but a butcher is not necessarily a sportsman, and a
-  useless destruction of life, where no more danger is incurred than in
-  a butcher’s shambles, is not an absolute proof of courage or heroism,
-  and the “noble hunters” have not the butcher’s excuse for the
-  bloodshed. Whatever of heroism there is in these encounters, we cannot
-  help thinking, is displayed by the elephants, and not by their
-  aggressors. For a hunter to put such achievements as we have just
-  quoted on record merely displays the egotism and cruelty of the man.
-
-The training is simple, and the intelligence and obedience of the pupil
-are developed with remarkable rapidity. For the first three days, or
-until they will eat freely, which they seldom do in a shorter time, the
-newly captured elephants are allowed to remain perfectly quiet; and if
-practicable, a tame elephant is tied near them to give the wild ones
-confidence. Where many elephants are being trained at once, it is
-customary to put each new captive between the stalls of half-tamed ones,
-thereby inducing it to more readily take to its food. The next stage of
-the training process is commenced by placing a tame elephant on each
-side of the pupil, with the “cooroowe vidahn,” or head of the stables,
-standing in front, holding a long stick with a sharp iron point. Two men
-are then stationed one on either side, each holding an iron instrument
-furnished with both a sharp point and a hook. This is called a “hendoo”
-in Ceylon, and a “hawkus” in Bengal, and is the principal weapon used in
-guiding and controlling elephants, as it has been from very ancient
-times. This instrument is held toward the animal’s trunk, while one or
-two assistants rub their hands over his back, keeping up while doing so
-a soothing and plaintive chant, interspersed with endearing epithets,
-such as, “ho! my son,” or “ho! my father,” or “my mother,” as may be
-applicable to the age and sex of the captive. At first the elephant is
-furious, and strikes in all directions with his trunk; but the men in
-front receiving these blows on the points of their weapons, the
-extremity of the trunk becomes so sore that the animal curls it up
-close, and seldom afterward attempts to use it offensively. The first
-dread of man’s power being thus established, the process of taking him
-to bathe between two tame elephants is greatly facilitated, and by
-lengthening the neck rope, and drawing the feet together as close as
-possible, the process of laying him down in the water is finally
-accomplished by the keepers pressing the sharp points of their hendoos
-over the backbone.
-
-[Illustration: MEDAL OF NUMIDIA, GIVING A REPRESENTATION OF AN ANCIENT
-HENDOO.]
-
-For many days the roaring and resistance which attend the operation are
-considerable, and it often requires the sagacious interference of the
-tame elephants to control the refractory wild ones. It soon, however,
-becomes practicable to leave the latter alone, only taking them to and
-from the stall by the aid of a decoy. This step lasts, under ordinary
-treatment, for about three weeks, when an elephant may be taken alone
-with his legs hobbled, and a man walking backward in front with the
-point of the hendoo always presented to the elephant’s head, and a
-keeper with an iron crook at each ear. On getting into the water, the
-fear of being pricked on his tender back induces him to lie down
-immediately on the crook being held over him in terrorem. Once this
-point has been achieved, the farther process of taming is dependent upon
-the disposition of the creature.
-
-[Illustration: MODERN HENDOO.]
-
-The greatest care is requisite, and daily medicines are applied to heal
-the fearful wounds on the legs which even the softest ropes occasion.
-This is the great difficulty of training; for the wounds fester
-grievously, and months and sometimes years will elapse before an
-elephant will allow his feet to be touched without indications of alarm
-and anger.
-
-The observation has been frequently made that the elephants most vicious
-and troublesome to tame, and the most worthless when tamed, are those
-distinguished by a thin trunk and flabby pendulous ears. The period of
-tuition does not appear to be influenced by the size or strength of the
-animals: some of the smallest give the greatest amount of trouble;
-whereas, in the instance of the two largest that have been taken in
-Ceylon within the last thirty years, both were docile in a remarkable
-degree. One in particular, fed from the hand the first night it was
-secured, and in a very few days evinced pleasure on being patted on the
-head. The males are generally more unmanageable than the females, and in
-both an inclination to lie down to rest is regarded as a favorable
-symptom of approaching tractability, some of the most resolute having
-been known to stand for months together, even during sleep. Those which
-are the most obstinate and violent at first are the soonest and most
-effectually subdued, and generally prove permanently docile and
-submissive. But those which are sullen or morose, although they may not
-provoke chastisement by their viciousness, are always slower in being
-trained, and are rarely to be trusted in after life.
-
-But whatever may be his natural gentleness and docility, the temper of
-an elephant is seldom to be implicitly relied on in a state of captivity
-and coercion. The most amenable are subject to occasional fits of
-stubbornness; and even after years of submission, irritability and
-resentment will sometimes unaccountably manifest themselves. It may be
-that the restraints and severer discipline of training have not been
-entirely forgotten; or that incidents which in ordinary health would be
-productive of no demonstration whatever, may lead, in moments of
-temporary illness, to fretfulness and anger.
-
-In his native country the first employment to which an elephant is put
-is treading clay in a brick-field, or to draw a wagon in double harness
-with a tame elephant. After this he is promoted to moving heavy stones
-or other material, or in piling lumber. In these occupations he has an
-opportunity to display that natural sagacity for which he is noted. It
-is only necessary to make him understand the object desired to be
-accomplished, and he will himself devise means to attain that result. In
-the detail of the work it is seldom necessary to prompt him, and he will
-even resent an attempt to compel him to adopt a different plan from the
-one he has selected. His trunk is the instrument on which he principally
-relies for moving timber and masses of rock; his tusks, if he possess
-them, are also of service. Most persons entertain an exaggerated opinion
-of the elephant’s strength. It is currently believed that with but
-slight exertion he can uproot forest trees, and is in the habit of doing
-so as a species of mild recreation. It is true he is of considerable
-service in clearing paths through the jungle, but the removal of even a
-small tree is a matter of both time and labor. Another common error is
-the assumption that elephants are so thoroughly creatures of habit, that
-their movements are purely mechanical, and that any deviation from
-accustomed ways is excessively annoying and disconcerting to them. The
-best informed authorities assert that changes of treatment, or of hours
-of occupation, are as easily made as with a horse. Still another
-mistake, derived no doubt from the intelligence and earnestness he
-displays in work, is the idea that he actually enjoys his labor, and
-will perform his task as faithfully in the absence of his keeper as when
-he is present. The elephant, however, loves his ease, and unless his
-attendant has a watchful eye upon him, he will, on completing the task
-immediately in hand, stroll off to browse, or to enjoy the luxury of
-blowing dust over his back.
-
-The impulse of obedience is very strikingly manifested in the patience
-with which, at the command of his keeper, he will swallow the nauseating
-medicines of the native elephant doctors. The fortitude with which he
-submits to excruciating surgical operations for the relief of ulcers,
-would indicate that he comprehends in a measure the purpose of them.
-Obedience to his keeper’s orders is not in all cases proof of a
-perception of the object to be attained by compliance. This is shown in
-the touching incident which took place at the slaughter of the elephant
-at Exeter, England, when after receiving fully one hundred and twenty
-balls in various parts of his body, and these proving ineffectual to end
-his existence, he turned his face to his assailants on hearing the voice
-of his keeper, and kneeled down at the accustomed word of command, so as
-to bring his forehead within view of the rifles.
-
-The affection for his keeper is a great incentive to obedience on the
-part of the elephant, but although this attachment is often great, there
-is not that unwillingness to transfer his affection and obedience to a
-new keeper, which has been very frequently asserted. If treated with
-equal kindness he will obey readily and acquire an affection for a new
-attendant as soon as he becomes familiar with his voice. He no doubt
-often remembers an old friend and many of the anecdotes told of
-elephants recognizing an old keeper from whom they have long been
-parted, and being rejoiced thereat, are doubtless true. Founded on very
-good authority is the story of an animal of particularly stubborn
-disposition who, on the death of his keeper, refused to obey any other,
-until some attendants bethought them of a boy some twelve years old in a
-distant village where the elephant had been formerly picketed, and to
-whom it had displayed considerable attachment. The child was sent for,
-and on his arrival was immediately recognized with many manifestations
-of pleasure and to him the elephant yielded obedience, until by degrees
-he became reconciled to a new keeper.
-
-
-                  HOW “HUNTING ELEPHANTS” ARE TRAINED.
-
-Probably all readers are familiar with the fact that, in their native
-countries, elephants are not only used to aid in the capture of their
-own species, but also in the pursuit of various wild beasts of the
-jungle. In tiger hunting especially is this the case, and this sport
-furnishes one of the chief and most exciting amusements of the English
-troops in India. In this sport the elephant is rather an unwilling
-participant. In his wild state there is no occasion for any conflict
-between himself and other dwellers of the forest. Living entirely on
-vegetable food, and so under no necessity of preying upon other animals;
-too peaceful to molest others, and too powerful to be molested by them,
-in a state of nature each seems anxious to avoid rather than to provoke
-any encounter. Should a tiger and an elephant meet in the jungle each
-would probably be only anxious to get out of the other’s way as quickly
-as possible.
-
-The principal difficulty in training elephants for hunting is to
-overcome the excessive antipathy, and even dread, they entertain toward
-tigers. To accomplish this a tiger’s skin is stuffed and placed
-partially concealed among the undergrowth skirting some road. Along the
-road the elephant is then conducted; always observant, he quickly
-detects the unwelcome neighbor and considerable urging is required to
-induce him to pass it. After passing it several times he becomes more
-indifferent to its presence and may be gradually induced to approach it.
-Then he is made to turn it over and get thoroughly familiar with it;
-this accustoms him to the tiger in a state of quietude. Then the stuffed
-figure is thrown toward him and he is taught to receive it upon his
-tusks. The next lesson may be to drive his tusks into the body. The last
-operation is to teach the elephant to allow the stuffed tiger to be
-placed upon his back; this is the most difficult part of all.
-
-When the elephant is properly trained and ready for service the hunter
-takes his place in the howdah—a sort of box-seat fastened on the
-animal’s back—while the mahout sits astride the neck. Behind the hunter,
-in the howdah, rides the shikaree, or native gun carrier, whose duty it
-is to “play second fiddle” in the expedition. A number of natives are
-also usually employed as “beaters” to start the game. These men go on
-foot, seeking safety, in case of danger, by climbing trees or by being
-lifted up by the elephant upon his back. The elephants are now formed in
-line and the jungle beaten, in all parts if a small one, or if very
-extensive in those portions only which appear most likely to contain
-game. As soon as a tiger is started the line advances upon him, each
-hunter watching for an opportunity to fire as his elephant charges.
-Notwithstanding the most careful training instinct often proves an
-overmatch for the elephant’s education and, he takes to flight in spite
-of all the driver’s efforts to prevent him. One hunter relates an
-incident of his elephant being seized with a panic and dumping hunter,
-driver and all upon his back, into the very midst of a number of tigers
-which the party were in pursuit of.
-
-In taking a dead tiger home the elephant lies on his side until the body
-is fastened to him, and then rises with it.
-
-The liability to be seized with a panic at trifling circumstances is
-probably due in a measure to the elephant’s limited range of vision, the
-short neck preventing his looking much above the level of his head. An
-anecdote illustrative of this is told by Sir J. E. Tennent: “In 1841 an
-officer was chased by an elephant that he had slightly wounded. Seizing
-him near the dry bed of a river, the animal had his fore foot already
-raised to crush him; but its forehead being touched at the same instant
-by the tendrils of a climbing plant which had suspended itself from the
-branches above, it suddenly turned and fled, leaving him bodily hurt,
-but with no limbs broken.”
-
-Elephants seldom use their tusks as weapons unless they have been
-trained to do so; their vertical position, and the structure of the neck
-preventing their being effective unless the object of attack being
-directly below them. The stories told of the execution of criminals by
-elephants when Ceylon was under the rule of native kings, generally
-describe the elephant as killing the victim by running its tusks through
-his body. An eye-witness of one of these executions, however, says the
-animal never used his tusks at all, but placed his foot upon the
-prostrate man and tore off his limbs in succession by a sudden movement
-of the trunk. Hunters have frequently described their escape from
-elephants when the latter might easily have killed them by a thrust of
-their tusks, but apparently did not even know how to use them for that
-purpose.
-
-The elephant’s dependence is really upon his trunk and his ponderous
-feet. It is related that in an encounter between two elephants, one a
-tusker and the other without tusks, the latter proved the victor,
-breaking off one of the former’s tusks with his trunk.
-
-
-                         PERFORMING ELEPHANTS.
-
-From very early times elephants have not only been used in war, in
-industrial pursuits, and to add to the pomp and display of powerful
-rulers, but ages ago they were made to amuse the multitude by
-performances not very dissimilar to those witnessed in our modern
-circuses. An old Roman writer describes a number of elephants exhibited
-in Rome by a nephew of the emperor Tiberius, who were taught “to twist
-their limbs and to bend them like a stage dancer,”—Roman stage dancers
-could not have been remarkable for grace or agility we should fancy—“the
-whole troop came forward from this and that side of the theater, and
-divided themselves into parties; they advanced walking with a mincing
-gait, and exhibiting in their whole bodies and persons the manners of a
-beau, clothed in the flowery dresses of dancers; and on the ballet
-master giving a signal with his voice they fell into line and went round
-in a circle, and if it were necessary to display they did so. They
-ornamented the floor of the stage by throwing flowers upon it, and beat
-a measure with their feet and keep time together.” Another feature of
-the entertainment was a banquet prepared for the elephants; “tables were
-placed then of sweet smelling wood and ivory very superb,” with goblets
-“very expensive, and bowls of gold and silver.” When all was ready the
-banqueters came forward, six male and an equal number of female
-elephants; the former had on a male dress and the latter a female; and
-on the signal being given they stretched forward their trunks in a
-subdued manner, and took their food in great moderation. The last
-exploit of these animals related by an old Roman was writing on tablets
-with their trunks, “neither looking awry or turning aside. The hand,
-however, of the teacher was placed so as to be a guide in the formation
-of the letters; and while it was writing the animal kept its eye fixed
-down in an accomplished and scholarlike manner.”
-
-[Illustration: PERFORMING ELEPHANT.]
-
-In addition to the training elephants receive immediately after their
-capture, and which we have described, very little instruction is
-required to prepare them for those performances which delight
-circus-goers. The performances in question consist usually of lying
-down, walking on their legs, standing on the head, walking up an
-inclined plane formed of a narrow plank, standing on a pedestal, holding
-a rope for a dancer or acrobat to perform upon, and similar feats. These
-are nearly all but modifications of his labors when a captive in his
-native country. Holding a line for a gymnast is not very different to
-the elephant from doing the same thing to draw a load or raise a weight.
-
-In compelling the elephant to perform these acts advantage is taken of
-the fact that the feet of the elephant are peculiarly sensitive and he
-dreads any injury to them. While a spear held at his head will cause him
-little uneasiness, if the same be directed toward his feet it will cause
-him to display evident symptoms of anxiety. So by threatened attacks he
-may be induced to move in any desired direction. By tapping them gently
-from below he may be made to raise them; and by persevering he is made
-to raise both hind feet—lowering his head as a natural result of this
-rear movement—and thus is accomplished the feat of standing on his head.
-In the pedestal performance the pedestal is comparatively low, and with
-the upper surface of just sufficient area to accommodate the elephants
-four feet, placed close together. He is first made to place one fore
-foot upon this, then the other, and then in succession the two hind
-feet. The trainer must be watchful and prevent the elephant’s very
-natural attempt to replace his fore feet on the ground when he places
-his hind one on the pedestal. This is done by striking his toes whenever
-he makes the attempt.
-
-[Illustration: PERFORMING ELEPHANT.]
-
-The delicacy of touch possessed by the elephant’s trunk enables him to
-use it for many purposes with as much dexterity as a human being would
-his hands. Thus he easily performs the amusing trick of opening and
-drinking a bottle of soda water; holding the bottle with his feet while
-he removes the cork with his trunk and then lifting the bottle in his
-trunk and pouring the contents down his throat. Similar tricks are
-readily acquired by the elephant without any particular training, all
-that is necessary in the soda-water trick is to let him know there is
-something in the bottle and his ingenuity may be depended upon to get at
-the contents. We some years ago witnessed a novel feat at a circus. A
-small table was brought into the ring and the clown seated himself on
-one side of it. On the other side the elephant who had been performing
-squatted on his haunches. The “supes” then brought in plates of apples,
-bread, etc., and arranged them on the table. A large two-pronged fork
-was now handed to the elephant, and with this he dexterously “speared”
-his provender and conveyed it to his mouth. This appeared quite
-wonderful, and was hailed with rounds of applause, but it was a trick
-very easily taught. The animal had been first given apples on a fork,
-and not being allowed to eat them except on taking them off the fork
-with his mouth he soon learned to do so. Then he was given the fork, and
-the apples placed before him, his trunk was guided by his trainer’s hand
-to strike the fork into the apple and then he was allowed to carry it to
-his mouth. If the apples be good ones he will soon learn to do all this
-without prompting, and will very willingly perform the trick for the
-sake of the “perquisites.”
-
-We do not imagine that many of our readers will have occasion to train
-an elephant; still there is often an opportunity afforded at traveling
-exhibitions, should you desire it, to make an elephant go through a
-little performance for you, such as picking up your hat, catching apples
-or nuts thrown him, etc. A judicious outlay in ginger-bread and like
-delicacies will induce his elephantship to be quite obliging, and if
-your stock of edibles be purchased at the stand in the tent, probably
-the proprietors will offer no objection to your feeding their elephant
-with them.
-
-Speaking of amateur elephant exhibitors recalls an adventure of our own
-youthful days. Visiting a menagerie early one afternoon when
-comparatively few visitors were present, and anxious to “show of” before
-some less venturesome youths, we had, at the expense of all our pocket
-money, caused one of the elephants to pick up our cap when thrown down
-and hand it back to us, to insert his trunk in our pockets after cake,
-and finally, as a crowning feat, to take bits of cake from between our
-lips. Had we been contented with these achievements our performance
-would have been a triumph; but, alas, our ambition was not satisfied,
-and we thought it would be a still greater display to make the elephant
-take the cake from the _inside_ of our mouth. So a piece was a placed
-therein and the mouth held invitingly open. Mr. Elephant unhesitatingly
-inserted his proboscis, but unfortunately our supply of cake had been
-well nigh exhausted, and the piece used for the experiment was _very_
-small, so either from inability to find it, a mistake in the article, or
-as a punishment for reducing the rations, he got hold of our tongue, and
-the first thing we knew he was attempting to pull it out. Luckily his
-keeper came to our rescue at this critical moment, and we retired
-uninjured but rather crestfallen.
-
-
-
-
-                             CHAPTER XIII.
-                 LIONS, TIGERS, LEOPARDS AND PANTHERS.
-
-
-Unquestionably the lion in his native wilds, with his appetite keen from
-forced fasts, is a fierce and formidable adversary to meet with, and
-well worthy the title of “king of beasts.” But it is well established by
-travelers and hunters that when his appetite is satisfied he will seldom
-attack a man unprovoked, often passing harmlessly by; and will even
-permit his best relished prey, the antelope, to come to his neighborhood
-for water, without molestation. He is comparatively gentle in a state of
-captivity, more to be depended upon, and less treacherous, than the
-tiger, and has been preferred to the tiger by tamers in all ages.
-
-When taken young he is tamed with little difficulty, and, while a cub,
-may be handled and caressed like a great kitten. As he grows larger he
-becomes so rough in his play that he is liable unintentionally to
-inflict injury. Hunters who capture a family of cubs generally sell them
-to individuals who make a business of buying up young animals in their
-native countries, to be forwarded to correspondents in various parts of
-the world. This is the way in which nearly all the wild animals on
-exhibition are procured.
-
-When an animal “on the road”—which is the technical term for moving with
-a traveling exhibition—is so unmindful of the interests of his owners as
-to die, the showman telegraphs to a dealer in wild animals, and often
-within twenty-four hours another is on his way to supply the vacant
-place. Sometimes, if the dead animal has acquired a reputation, the new
-one assumes his name as well as his duties, and the public never
-suspects there has been any change.
-
-Until bought by the exhibitor lions are considered merely as articles of
-merchandise, to be kept in good condition, and, when ordered, to be
-packed and forwarded with due care and despatch. The dealer in wild
-animals does nothing in respect to taming them, though a second-hand
-animal which has been tamed sometimes comes into his hands. If it is
-desired to tame a lion for the exhibition of the “lion king” he is
-bought when young; if merely for ordinary exhibition this is not
-essential.
-
-The taming is accomplished mainly by mild measures. The young lion is
-regularly and plentifully fed, his food being given to him by the tamer.
-As we before remarked a cub may be handled with as much freedom as a
-kitten, and if this be kept up regularly, the animal becomes so
-accustomed to it as not to resent it when he grows older. Besides, all
-animals of the cat kind are fond of having their heads scratched and
-their fur stroked, and even such a trifling matter as this aids the
-tamer in soothing and gaining the good will of the animal. Being fed
-immediately after these familiarities the lion soon hails them with
-pleasure, as the precursor of his meal. Any misbehavior, such as
-scratching, biting, or defiance of the tamer is punished with a blow
-from the butt of a heavy whip, and in extreme cases by the deprivation
-of his supper.
-
-[Illustration: THE “LION KING” PERFORMING.]
-
-It is sometimes necessary to reduce an old lion to submission or to
-inspire with more awe one which does not entertain sufficient respect
-for the tamer. The animal is usually well fed; this dulls his anger at
-the tamer’s intrusion, as well as makes his resistance more easily
-overcome. Armed with a club, the tamer enters the cage, and standing in
-such a position as to prevent the lion approaching from the rear, he
-waits the animal’s onset. This is always a ticklish position, requiring
-a cool head and steady nerves, but the captive animal with a full
-stomach is not like a wild one ravenous for food, and he is pretty sure
-to submit sooner or later. Watching the animal’s eye steadily, the tamer
-can ordinarily detect his intention to spring, and be prepared to
-receive him with a blow from the club. This he repeats at each approach
-of the animal until the latter slinks to the farther end of the cage and
-ceases his attacks. This is enough for one lesson; the next day the
-animal will probably only gaze sullenly on the tamer upon his entering
-the cage. As he becomes accustomed to the man’s presence he will permit
-him to handle him, but these are not the ones in whose mouths the tamer
-places his head. To place your head in the mouth of a lion who bears you
-ill-will is a dangerous proceeding, and there is a probability that he
-would seize such a favorable opportunity to pay off old scores.
-
-Burning torches and heated irons are sometimes resorted to as aids in
-subduing unamiable and obstinate animals. These are used more frequently
-for tigers than for lions. More reliance may be placed upon a lion’s
-affection than a tiger’s; the tiger must be made to fear the tamer so
-much that he will not dare to commit any overt act.
-
-The training of an animal of course adds very greatly to his value,
-therefore great pains are taken with the lion’s education. The lion, if
-gentle means have been adopted, often becomes attached to the tamer, and
-will go through his performance with even a sort of pleasure. This
-performance usually consists in the “lion king” entering the cage,
-caressing the lions, and then proceeding to show the audience what he
-dares to do with the animals. Opening the mouth, showing the teeth and
-tongue, pulling out claws, and the more startling feat of putting his
-head in the lion’s mouth, are the customary performances. Taking the
-lion by the tail is a familiarity occasionally, though seldom, indulged
-in.
-
-When the man places his head in the lion’s mouth it will be noticed that
-he holds the jaws with his hands. This is generally, but erroneously,
-supposed to be done to prevent the animal closing his mouth; should he
-feel so inclined, the man’s strength would avail but little against the
-powerful muscles of the animal’s jaws; his real object in holding the
-jaws is to prevent the exceedingly rough tongue of the lion coming in
-contact with and lacerating his face. When this feat is performed in
-private it is usual to protect the face with a sort of hood of stout
-cloth. Most of the injuries, to lion tamers, which occur in the
-performance of this feat, we believe to be purely accidental. An
-incipient cough, a tickling in the throat or some other trifle is liable
-to cause a spasmodic closing of the jaws, and the crushing of the
-tamer’s head before he or the lion has any idea of what is going to
-happen.
-
-Some lions will permit strangers to enter their cages in company with
-the tamer. Some will even permit little familiarities from visitors
-under the protection of the tamer. Nero, a lion of peculiarly gentle
-disposition belonging to a menagerie traveling in Scotland, seemed even
-pleased to receive visits from persons whom his master saw fit to
-introduce into his cage, and would treat them very graciously. When last
-in Edinburgh a nightly exhibition was given of visitors riding and
-sitting on his back, Nero the while preserving a look of magnanimous
-composure, only slowly looking around at the entrance of a new visitor.
-Another lion, in Amsterdam, would jump through a hoop and barrel; then
-through the same covered with paper; and finally through hoop and barrel
-with the paper set on fire. This last part he evidently disliked, but
-with some coaxing would do it. When given meat in public he would show
-his forbearance by allowing some of it to be taken from him, submitting
-with only a short clutch and a growl; but his countenance lost its
-serene expression, and he would probably not long have submitted to this
-tampering.
-
-A keeper of wild beasts in New York had provided himself with a fur cap
-on the approach of winter. The novelty of this costume attracted the
-attention of the lion who made a sudden grab at it, as the man passed
-the cage, and pulled it off his head. As soon, however, as he discovered
-it was the keeper’s he relinquished the cap and laid down meekly on the
-bottom of his cage. The same animal hearing a noise under his cage put
-his paw through the bars and hauled up the keeper, who was cleaning
-beneath. Seeing it was his master he had thus ill-used, he immediately
-laid down upon his back in an attitude of complete submission.
-
-The temper of the female is generally milder than that of the male
-previous to her having young. No sooner, however, does she become a
-mother than the ferocity of her disposition becomes ten-fold more
-vigorous, and though she will sometimes permit the keeper to enter the
-cage and attend to her wants, too near an approach, or any interference
-with the cubs would prove extremely dangerous. When disturbed by
-visitors the lioness displays great anxiety for her young, carrying the
-cubs in her mouth, apparently desirous of hiding them. This anxiety
-begins to diminish when the young ones reach the age of about five
-months. Lions are quite frequently born in captivity, but few of these
-reach maturity, many dying at the time of shedding their milk teeth.
-
-[Illustration: THE LIONESS AND THE DOG.]
-
-There was at one time in the Jardin des Plantes, Paris, a lioness which
-permitted a dog to live in her den, and to which she became strongly
-attached. The dog was equally fond of her, gamboling with and caressing
-her in the highest possible spirit. The lioness was most attentive to
-all his wants, and when the keeper let the little creature out for
-exercise she seemed exceedingly unhappy till he returned.
-
-A lioness kept in the Tower of London in 1773 had for a considerable
-time been so attached to a little dog who was kept in her den that she
-would not eat till the dog was first satisfied. When the lioness was
-near her time of whelping, it was thought advisable to take the dog
-away; but shortly after, when the keepers were cleaning the den, the dog
-by some means got into it and approached the lioness with his wonted
-fondness, while she was playing with her cubs. She made a sudden spring
-at him, and seizing the poor little animal in her mouth, seemed on the
-point of tearing him to pieces; then, as if suddenly recollecting her
-former kindness, she carried him to the door of the den and allowed him
-to be taken out unharmed.
-
-One of the most interesting cages in the Zoological Garden, London, is
-that containing a family party consisting of a mastiff with a lion and
-his mate. They were brought up together from cubhood, and agree
-marvelously well, though the dog would prove little more than a mouthful
-for either of his noble companions. Visitors express much sympathy for
-him, and fancy that the lion is only saving him up, as the giant did
-Jack, for a future feast. But this sympathy seems uncalled for, as Lion
-(so the dog is named) has always maintained the ascendancy he assumed as
-a pup, and any rough handling on the part of his huge playfellows is
-immediately resented by his flying at their noses. Although the dog is
-allowed to come out of the den every morning, he shows a great
-disinclination to leave his old friends. It is, however, thought
-advisable to separate them at feeding time.
-
-The taming of wild beasts has not been confined to modern times. In the
-palmy days of the Roman empire they were trained and led in the
-triumphal processions so common at the time when Rome was almost master
-of the world. Lions were even made, occasionally, to draw the chariots
-of some victorious general, symbolical of his prowess. For many
-generations, various powerful Indian sovereigns have had beasts of prey
-tamed and kept near the throne on state occasions. More frequently,
-however, they were employed in the execution of criminals or persons who
-had offended the despot. King Theodore of Abyssinia possessed quite a
-number of tamed lions. Of his four special favorites, one named Kuara
-was the most docile and intelligent. When the king received an embassy
-he gave audience to the messengers surrounded by a court of lions
-instead of a crowd of courtiers and a guard of soldiers.
-
-The couguar, or American lion, is one of the gentlest of the species,
-easily tamed, becoming harmless and even affectionate, even toward
-comparative strangers. This animal is frequently met with in menageries,
-his docility and the ease with which he may be taught to leap and climb,
-rendering him a favorite for these collections. He is much pleased with
-the society of those persons to whom he is accustomed; lies down on his
-back between their feet, toys with their garments, and acts very much
-like a playful kitten. He has a great predilection for water, and, if
-provided with a tub of that liquid, will jump in, souse around in it,
-and jump out again highly delighted.
-
-Tigers being more treacherous and less influenced by kind treatment than
-lions, tamers generally prefer to have as little to do with as possible.
-This rule, however, is not without an exception; the natives of India
-tame tigers more frequently than lions, and the tame tigers of the
-fakirs, the celebrated “royal tigers,” natives of Hindoostan, naturally
-the most powerful and ferocious in the world, exhibit great gentleness
-and confidence—attributable doubtless to the ample way in which they are
-fed. In this country tigers are principally kept merely as objects of
-curiosity and few efforts are made to tame them. When taming is deemed
-desirable, resort is generally had to intimidation. An old tiger can
-seldom be subdued except by brute force; a crowbar is more effective
-with him than kindness, though when once rendered tractable, kindness
-succeeds severity in his treatment.
-
-Tigers are not, however, entirely destitute of affection, and this is
-sometimes manifested toward the person who has reared them. An example
-of this kind, a tigress in the town of London, may be familiar to the
-reader. This animal on its arrival in London grew very irascible and
-dangerous, from the annoyance of visitors and the bustle on the Thames.
-After she had been here some time her old keeper visited the tower and
-desired to enter the cage. So sulky and savage had the beast become that
-the superintendent feared to grant this request, but was finally
-prevailed on to do so. No sooner, however, did the animal catch sight of
-her old friend than she exhibited the utmost joy and on his entering her
-cage, fawned upon and caressed him, showing extravagant signs of
-pleasure, and at his departure cried and whined for the remainder of the
-day.
-
-The cowardice of the tiger is well known. This characteristic is
-illustrated in the contests between buffaloes and tigers exhibited in
-India. The tiger seems to menace the spectators, swelling his fur,
-displaying his teeth, and occasionally snarling and lashing his sides
-with his tail. As soon as the buffalo enters the enclosure, the tiger
-“sinks into the most contemptible despondency, sneaking along under the
-palisade, crouching and turning on his back, to avoid the buffalo’s
-charge. He tries every device his situation will admit, and often
-suffers himself to be gored, or to be lifted from his pusillanimous
-attitude by the buffalo’s horn before he can be induced to act on the
-defensive. When, however, he really does summon up courage to oppose his
-antagonist, he displays wonderful vigor and activity, although he is
-generally conquered.”
-
-Perhaps the cowardice of the tiger in the above instance is due to the
-consciousness of his inability to cope successfully with his adversary,
-and may be a specimen of “discretion being the better part of valor,”
-but the following incident related of a tiger kept at the British
-residency in Calcutta, gives an amusing example of absurd terror from a
-most insignificant cause: “What annoyed him far more than our poking him
-up with a stick, or tantalizing him with shins of beef or legs of
-mutton, was introducing a mouse into his cage. No fine lady ever
-exhibited more terror at the sight of a spider than this magnificent
-royal tiger betrayed on seeing a mouse. Our mischievous plan was to tie
-the little animal by a string to the end of a long pole, and thrust it
-close to the tiger’s nose. The moment he saw it he leaped to the
-opposite side; and, when the mouse was made to run near him, he jammed
-himself into a corner, and stood trembling and roaring in such an
-ecstasy of fear that we were always obliged to desist in pity to the
-poor brute. Sometimes we insisted on his passing over the spot where the
-unconscious little mouse ran backward and forward. For a long time,
-however, we could not get him to move, till, at length, I believe, by
-the help of a squib, we obliged him to start; but, instead of pacing
-leisurely across his den, or making a detour to avoid the object of his
-alarm, he generally took a kind of flying leap, so high as nearly to
-bring his back in contact with the roof of his cage.”
-
-Tigers will not submit like lions to the intrusion of idle strangers
-into the cages, but any professional trainer can ordinarily enter the
-cage and exhibit any properly broken tigers without special risk. There
-are men ready to accept engagements for performing with animals whom
-they may never have seen before the day of exhibition; fear being the
-controlling influence with the beasts, it is only requisite that the man
-shall show no timidity, and compel obedience by whatever severity may be
-necessary. The statement that belladonna or the leaves of datura
-stramonium are put in the food of tigers to act on their nervous system
-and create hallucination and terror, is, we believe, unfounded; no
-hallucination equals the simple reality of a heavy iron bar.
-
-The tiger’s cage is not altogether without its dangers. A story told of
-Tom Nathan, once well known in connection with circus exhibitions, gives
-one illustration of the feelings attendant upon non-success. He began
-public life as a clown. In his later years his hair was snowy white, but
-he relates that it became so, not in consequence of his years, but from
-an alarming accident which befell him during his career in the sawdust.
-There was a tiger in the show with which he was connected, and the man
-who bearded the tiger in his den having, on one occasion, struck for
-higher wages, Nathan volunteered to take his place. Boldly he entered
-the cage, but as soon as he did so, the animal resented the intrusion
-and seized him by the fleshy part of the body immediately below the
-small of the back. The fear of being chewed, the pain of the laceration
-of his flesh, and disappointed ambition combined, blanched his hair in a
-moment. He went into the cage a fair haired youth, and was taken out, as
-soon as he could be secured, a white headed old man.
-
-The following is a bit of experience, related to an English
-correspondent, by an old English tamer named Norwood, long employed by
-Jamrach, an extensive animal owner of London:
-
-“Whenever I ’ave a few words with Mr. Jamrach, which I had a few not
-many weeks ago, I takes to the show business, and am allers ready to go
-in. This ’ere scar,” (baring an arm and showing a deep flesh wound,
-recently cicatrized) “I got on the Kingsland road, on the 20th of this
-month. A Bengal tiger it was, and I was a-performing with the same beast
-as was at the Crystal Palace a short time arterwards. Me and Mr. Jamrach
-’ad ’ad a few words, we ’ad, and I took up with the performing, which
-I’d been accustomed to. Well, I see the tiger for the first time at four
-in the arternoon; and I goes into her den, and puts her through her
-anky-panky at eight. As a matter o’course I ’ad to giv’ her the whip a
-bit, and she not knowing my voice, don’t you see, got fidgety and didn’t
-like it. To make matters worse moresumever, this tiger bein’ fond of
-jumpin’, they went and shortened the cage, so that when I giv’ the word
-she fell short of her reg’lar jump, and came upon me. I don’t believe
-she meant mischief; I only fancy she got timid like, and not being
-accustomed to what she ’ad under ’er, she makes a grab and does wot you
-see. The company got scared like; the ladies screamed, and the
-performance was stopped for a time. What did I do?—why, directly they
-came in with iron bars and made her loose her hold, I jest giv’ her the
-whip agen, and made her go through the jump till she got more satisfied
-like; but she was timid, very timid, to the last, and tore off the flesh
-right to the elbow here. No, sir, I never stopped the performance after
-the first time, though I was being mauled above a bit, while the people
-was a clapping their ’ands, and ’ollering ‘angcore,’ It don’t do with
-beasts to let ’em think you’re uneasy, so each time she tore me with her
-claws, I just giv’ her the whip, till she saw it wouldn’ do.”
-
-Leopards and panthers, although sometimes confounded even by
-naturalists, are strictly different animals, though so near alike that
-any statements in regard to the training of one will be equally
-applicable to the other. They are both quite common in menageries, and
-are often among the dwellers in the “den of beasts.” Leopards—and what
-we say of the leopard’s character or training applies equally to the
-panther—are of a comparatively gentle disposition, and, unless hungry or
-annoyed, are generally harmless. Even in a wild state a person may come
-across them without being harmed, though it is said they are more
-dreaded at the Cape of Good Hope, than the lion, for they steal silently
-and treacherously upon their prey while he gives warning of his approach
-by terrific roarings.
-
-Illustrative of the leopard’s peaceful disposition an amusing story is
-told of a Cape farmer who once surprised a group of seven leopards
-reposing on a clump of scattered rocks. In the excitement of the moment,
-with scarcely a thought as to the probable consequences, he fired his
-single-barreled gun at them. Instead of returning this attack, the
-leopards seemed more surprised than angry at the report of the gun, and
-instead of turning their attention to the imprudent intruder some of
-them leaped on their hind legs, and pawed the air as if trying to catch
-the bullet which had gone whistling by their ears.
-
-The leopard is tamed easily, and is usually the animal selected to
-perform the leaping and similar feats which form a prominent portion of
-the “lion king’s” exhibition. Care is taken to select an individual who
-shows an inclination and aptness for these exercises. In this case the
-training is a mere trifle; the tamer corners the leopard up in one end
-of the cage, and holding his whip in a horizontal position close to the
-floor, he gently stirs the animal with his foot, giving at the same time
-the command, “up!” or “hi!” To escape the annoyance the leopard will
-spring over the whip, and the lesson is repeated until he does so
-promptly, on its being placed in position and the order given. Then the
-tamer may raise one of his legs and hold the whip at its side, and the
-leopard will leap over the leg. The same plan may be adopted with other
-articles such as poles, banners, etc., or even the trainer’s own head.
-Jumping through a hoop is the next lesson; the hoop to be held in one
-hand while the other hand holds the whip, with which the lower part of
-the hoop is to be tapped when the command “up!” or “hi!” is given. The
-hoop is at first held low down and close to the animal, but it may be
-gradually elevated as the lessons continue until the leap is as high as
-the cage will permit. Covering the hoop with paper adds a little to the
-attractiveness of this feat, and, of course, the leopard experiences no
-difficulty in going through a single thickness of paper.
-
-It is a harder task to induce the animal to jump through a hoop in which
-a number of small lights are arranged so as to form a fiery circle. The
-animal’s natural dread of fire makes him dislike anything of which fire
-forms a part, but if the hoop be at first of large size and the lights
-few, he will, if perseveringly urged, by-and-by venture. Experiencing no
-harm he will gradually become bolder, and the size of the hoop may be
-decreased and the lights increased until a wreath of fire is formed
-barely large enough for him to pass through; the rapidity of his passage
-will prevent his being hurt by the flames. A similar mode is adopted for
-teaching lions, though they are less frequently taught these tricks.
-
-The large cage in which the tamer’s public exhibitions take place is
-divided into several compartments by iron gates; each animal has his
-allotted division and the gates prevent any intrusion by the other
-animals. It is only when the tamer is in the cage that these-gates are
-opened; then they swing back against the sides, forming one large cage.
-The animals are very jealous of any encroachment of the others, upon
-their accustomed space, and the tamer must be watchful to prevent
-quarrels when they are thus all thrown together. It is easier to make
-the beasts submit to a man’s presence than to the presence of one
-another. It is seldom that the tamer is assailed, but many a time has
-one of the animals been killed during these performances, without the
-spectators having any suspicion of the fact. A sudden bite at the back
-of the neck crushes the spine and the victim sinks upon the floor
-without a sound, dead. The audience suppose he has lain down because his
-part of the performance is over—and so it is.
-
-Wild animals kept in confinement are subject to spells of sulkiness, at
-which times their management requires great judgment and care on the
-part of the tamer. These sulky moods are premonitions to the tamer of
-danger, and he makes it a point whenever passing the cages to glance at
-the animals’ eyes to detect any suspicious looks. It is during these
-fits that most of the casualties occur.
-
-Women have in several instances ventured to assume the rôle of “lion
-queens.” Some years ago one of these was traveling with a show; through
-the country, whose husband, we have been told, had been a lion tamer,
-and had been killed by one of the animals. Before his death this man had
-sometimes allowed his wife to enter the cage with him, thus accustoming
-the animals to her presence—though with no thought, probably, of her
-ever performing them professionally. Exactly how it came about we cannot
-tell, but probably she saw no other means of support; at any rate, in
-the very cage in which her husband met his death she set out to win her
-daily bread. We cannot vouch for the story; we cannot now even recall
-the name of our informant; but for all that it may be true. We only
-remember that she was harsher toward her animals than are most masculine
-members of the profession, and it is possible she was meting out to them
-a sort of “poetic justice” for the murder of her husband.
-
-Children have at times been introduced into these cages to make the
-exhibition appeal more strongly to the sympathies of the audience. The
-public always flock to see these scenes, however they may cry out
-against the barbarity of exposing a child to the danger of being torn to
-pieces by wild beasts. In one or two cases a little girl has entered the
-cage entirely alone and performed the animals; but animals are often
-more tractable with children than with grown persons, as probably many
-of our readers have witnessed in the case of savage dogs. Mrs. Bowdich
-says of a panther kept at Cape Coast, Africa, as the pet of an officer,
-that he was particularly gentle with children, lying by them as they
-slept. Even the infant shared his caresses without the slightest attempt
-on the animal’s part to injure the child. Besides this docility with
-children the tamer is always near at hand, sometimes in the guise of an
-attendant, keeping a watchful eye upon the animals, and ready to lend
-prompt assistance should it be required.
-
-In Persia the leopard is trained to hunt gazelles just as a falcon will
-hunt herons. The huntsman provides the leopard with a hood, which can be
-drawn over his face and mouth, and seats him on his saddle-bow. The
-moment a deer or gazelle is sighted the leopard’s head is uncovered, and
-he is let down from the horse. In one or two bounds, according to the
-distance, the leopard springs upon the back of his prey and seizing it
-by the neck brings it to the ground. The huntsman then comes up, and
-after caressing the leopard, who has already begun to feast upon the
-prey, he gives him a piece of meat to divert his attention, and slipping
-on the hood restores him to his place upon the saddle-bow. When the
-leopard fails to bring down the prey, which rarely happens, he hides
-himself and lies down, and can only be prevailed on to renew the chase
-by repeated caresses.
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER XIV.
-TAMING WILD ANIMALS IN GENERAL—SQUIRRELS—BEARS—BUFFALOES—WOLVES—HYENAS—
-            RHINOCEROSES—HIPPOPOTAMI—CROCODILES—ALLIGATORS.
-
-
-All our present domestic animals having sprung from wild stock, it is
-not very remarkable that many other animals now found in a state of
-nature, may be rendered equally gentle and obedient under proper
-treatment. As the taming of these animals answers no purpose save the
-gratification of public curiosity, the number is comparatively small,
-for as soon as a tame bear or buffalo ceases to be a novelty the most
-profitable thing for his owner to do is to chop him up into steaks.
-Whatever may be the ferocity of an animal that has reached maturity,
-this characteristic is almost wholly lacking in his infancy,
-consequently most of the tamed animals have been captured young, and
-accustomed for the principal part of their lifetime to captivity.
-
-All wild animals when captured, after they have reached an adult age,
-display at first a passionate resistance to confinement and all efforts
-to soothe them. While this lasts it is usual to keep them without food.
-The exhaustion induced by this deprivation greatly aids in quelling
-their rage, besides teaching them the hopelessness of resistance. With
-cubs this is scarcely ever necessary; though they sometimes display
-anger, they are so easily overpowered or restrained from mischief, that
-it is hardly worth while needlessly to make them suffer hunger. As soon
-as the old ones become quiet they are fed by the tamer, who thus lays
-the foundation of their future good will. Animals in menageries are, as
-a rule, fed one full meal each day, with the exception of Sunday, on
-which day they get nothing to eat. This fast is intended to keep them in
-health, and to rest their digestive organs, and is nothing to animals
-who can go for days or even weeks without food if necessary.
-
-Small animals, such as squirrels, etc., may be tamed without difficulty,
-even if captured when arrived at a considerable age. Gentle treatment,
-the avoidance of any teasing or aggravating, and a gradual increase of
-the tamer’s familiarity with the captive, will be all that is requisite
-in most cases. When tamed, the animals may be taught tricks of various
-kinds in the same manner that we have elsewhere described for teaching
-the same performances to other animals.
-
-A squirrel, if captured when moderately young, can be tamed in a couple
-of days by merely carrying him in your pocket. The warmth of the pocket
-will be pleasant to him, and by giving him a nut occasionally you will
-convince him that you mean well toward him, and so gain his confidence.
-At first, care must be taken to prevent his escape, but by-and-by he may
-be allowed to come out and go in at his pleasure, and he will run about
-your lap with the greatest familiarity. With flying squirrels this
-method of training is particularly successful.
-
-Squirrels and many of the small wild animals can be made tame by any boy
-who is willing to devote sufficient time and patience to the object. In
-some cases it is not necessary to capture the animal. We have known
-instances of animals, particularly squirrels, being made so tame that
-they would of their own accord come to the tamer on hearing his voice.
-There was no great mystery in their docility; food had been at first
-placed in places frequented by them, the person so placing it retiring
-to a distance. By-and-by the animal would come and eat the food, perhaps
-glancing suspiciously at the distant figure, but if the person made no
-motion to startle him, he would continue his meal.
-
-This placing of food would require long continuance, the person each
-time remaining a little nearer than before, until, in time, the animal
-would have no fear even in his immediate vicinity. Then bits of food may
-be gently dropped down for him, and if the tamer stands quietly they
-will probably be picked up. Then the tamer may step backward and again
-drop a morsel; the animal will advance to get it, and at last he may
-even become so familiar as to eat from the hand. A squirrel who has been
-so far tamed may then easily be taught to climb over the tamer’s person
-by enticing him forward with some dainty. We have seen a squirrel
-induced to go through quite a variety of little performances, standing
-erect, leaping, and climbing wherever desired, lured on by a kernel of
-corn at the end of a piece of string.
-
-Of the larger animals, bears have always been favorite subjects with
-trainers. Considerable difficulty and danger is encountered in securing
-the cubs, owing to the ferocity and courage with which the mother bear
-defends her young. The old bear is in most cases killed before the
-capture of the young ones can be accomplished. During the infancy of the
-cubs the old he-bear ungallantly deserts the partner of his bosom, and
-takes up his quarters at a distance, to avoid annoyance by the cries of
-his progeny; so the hunter often escapes trouble with the head of the
-family. Bears are born blind, like puppies, and remain so for about
-eight or nine days. With care they can be raised even if taken when only
-four or five days old. The black bear attains his full size when eight
-or nine years old.
-
-Bears like many other animals have been called upon to lend their aid in
-theatrical displays. A frightful scene occurred some twenty years ago at
-the theater of Czerny, in Bohemia, during the performance of a
-melo-drama, called the “Bear of the Mountains,” the principal performer
-in which was a bruin of such wonderful docility and dramatic talent,
-that for a long succession of nights he attracted overflowing audiences.
-On this occasion, however, something had put this star out of humor, and
-he was observed to be wanting in those brilliant displays of the
-histrionic art which had previously overwhelmed him with applause. In
-the third act, instead of coming down the mountains by a winding path,
-with the slow and solemn step, as set down in the prompter’s book, he
-alighted on the stage at one bound.
-
-On his return behind the scenes he received reproofs, which, instead of
-improving, made his temper still more sullen; and it was with difficulty
-he could be prevailed on to go through his part. In the last scene he
-was induced to commence a waltz with a young and beautiful peasant girl,
-and seemed to take so much enjoyment in the dance, that the whole
-audience were raised from their seats, and, standing on the benches,
-drowned the sounds of a powerful orchestra with their acclamations of
-praise and delight.
-
-In a moment, however, the joyous spectacle was changed into one of
-horror; a piercing shriek was heard above all the combination of noises;
-the stage was one moment in the utmost confusion, and the next was clear
-of every performer except the bear, who appeared with his muzzle,
-unfastened, and hanging around his neck; and after making a wide display
-of his tremendous gullet, leaped into the orchestra, which, as may be
-easily imagined, was as vacant as the stage. The flight of the audience
-was equally as quick, but the consequences more serious. Numbers were
-severely crushed and bruised in the struggle at the doors, and several
-were dreadfully injured by being thrown down and trampled upon. After a
-pause, a platoon of soldiers went into the pit with fixed bayonets and
-loaded barrels, and ordered to bring out the cause of all the evil, dead
-or alive; but they found him, like other great actors who have performed
-their parts and become exhausted by their exertions, taking his repose
-on one of the benches, and incapable or unwilling to make any
-resistance.
-
-The performances of bears consist almost entirely of natural actions,
-such as walking erect, climbing, leaping, and the like. These are
-arranged to form a variety of feats; that of a bear riding around the
-ring, in a gig drawn by a pony, is very simple, the bear being only
-required to set erect, and hold the reins in his paws. Carrying
-articles, as when acting waiter, is natural. Standing on their heads and
-turning somersaults are probably feats not commonly indulged in in a
-state of freedom; they are taught by rapping the hind legs until the
-animals take the desired position or make the desired turn-over. The
-most pretentious bear show within our knowledge was that of “Old Grizzly
-Adams,” a hunter who managed to collect quite a number and variety of
-bears, which were exhibited some years ago. Laughing, crying, singing,
-and other bears were advertised as belonging to this collection; but the
-laughing, crying and singing were the mere natural voices of the bears,
-and all so nearly alike that only a vivid imagination enabled the hearer
-to distinguish between the laughing, crying, and singing. Some gaudy
-costumes tickled with their ridiculousness the fancy of the audience,
-and the exhibition gave very fair satisfaction.
-
-[Illustration: DANCING BEARS IN COSTUME.]
-
-Little bears are intensely amusing, and they display a great fondness
-for romping and playing. We have known of hunters bringing cubs home,
-and adopting them, as it were, into their families, the bears becoming
-exceedingly familiar, sleeping with the children, and eating from their
-bowls of bread and milk, climbing into the hunter’s lap and licking his
-face, and, in fact, making themselves perfectly at home. As they grow
-old, however, they are liable to become enraged at teasing or other
-provocation and to be dangerous.
-
-Bears sometimes acquire a fondness for liquor, and this article is in
-some cases used by trainers as an inducement or reward for performing.
-Cake, candy, and like treats are also powerful incentives with bears. A
-writer in one of the magazines describes a huge bear whose acquaintance
-he made in New Orleans, belonging to a Spaniard who kept a public house
-in the vicinity of that city. This bear had contracted so great a liking
-for whiskey and sugar, that he became troublesome unless he had his
-liquor and his spree, and no one could mistake the cause of his conduct
-when “fuddled.” He rolled from side to side, leered ridiculously and
-smiled foolishly, and was loving and savage by turns. He would wrap his
-great paw around the tumbler containing “the poison,” go through the
-ceremony of touching glasses with the gentleman who paid for the treat,
-and then pour the contents down his capacious throat with a gusto that
-made old topers “love that animal like one of themselves.”
-
-[Illustration: PERFORMING BEARS.]
-
-[Illustration: BEAR AND PONY ACT.]
-
-Buffaloes have also been drafted into the service of the circus, but
-their performances are in no way remarkable—except, perhaps, for the
-very absence of anything remarkable. The fierce monster who, with
-steaming nostrils and flaming eyes, is represented on the circus posters
-as recklessly dashing over palisade-like fences, is usually found in
-sober fact to be a dejected looking animal of very moderate proportions,
-requiring vigorous punching to induce him to trot around the ring and
-leap the low “hurdles” the “general utility” men hold for him. His
-greatest aim in life appears to be to avoid hurting his shins while
-going over these barriers.
-
-Buffalo training is nothing but reducing the animal to submission, which
-a few applications of the horse taming straps will usually accomplish.
-Then he is driven around the ring until he learns to keep up a steady
-trot, after which the hurdles are placed in his way and he made to leap
-over, by the trainer’s assistants standing so as to cut off his retreat,
-and the trainer goading him forward. In obstinate cases a ring is
-attached to the animal’s nose in the same manner as with bulls.
-
-[Illustration: THE IDEAL BUFFALO OF THE POSTERS.]
-
-There are occasional examples recorded of the taming of wolves and
-hyenas. A story, we believe well authenticated, of a pet wolf, is
-related by M. Frederick Cuvier, and shows that even animals not usually
-considered affectionate, are not without gratitude to their benefactors,
-nor insensible of kind treatment. The wolf, who is the hero of this
-story, had been brought up like a dog, and became familiar with every
-one he was in the habit of seeing. He would follow his master, seemed to
-suffer from his absence, evinced entire submission, and differed not in
-manners from the tamest domestic dog. The master being obliged to
-travel, made a present of him to the Royal Menagerie at Paris. Here,
-shut up in his compartment, the animal remained for several weeks moody
-and discontented, and almost without eating. He gradually however,
-recovered, attached himself to his keeper, and seemed to have forgotten
-all his old affection. His master returned after an absence of eighteen
-months. At the very first word which he pronounced, the wolf, who did
-not see him in the crowd, instantly recognized him, and testified his
-joy by his antics and his cries. Being set at liberty, he overwhelmed
-his old friend with caresses, just as the most attached dog would have
-done after a separation of a few days. Unhappily, his master was obliged
-to leave him a second time, and this absence was again to the poor wolf
-the cause of profound regret, but time allayed his grief. Three years
-elapsed, and the wolf was living very comfortably with a young dog that
-had been given him as a companion. After this space of time, sufficient
-to make any dog forget his master, the gentleman returned again. It was
-evening, and all was shut up, and the eyes of the animal could be of no
-use to him, but the voice of his beloved master was not yet effaced from
-his memory; the moment he heard it he knew it, and answered by cries
-expressive of the most impatient desire, and on the obstacle which
-separated them being removed, his cries redoubled. The animal rushed
-forward, placed his fore feet on the shoulders of his friend, licked
-every part of his face, and threatened with his teeth those very keepers
-to whom he had so recently testified the warmest affection.
-
-[Illustration: THE REAL BUFFALO OF THE RING.]
-
-A French nobleman was some years ago famous for having several tame
-wolves; his method of taming being to confine each animal in a kennel by
-himself until he became docile. The wolves were never struck, but if
-when, little by little, they had become accustomed to the tamer’s
-presence, they made any attempt to bite, they were seized by the neck
-and a rough stick or knotty cane rubbed hard over their gums, which gave
-them a great disinclination to ever again use their teeth in an
-offensive manner.
-
-The rhinoceros is frequently tamed in the east, the plan being to
-confine the animal in a pen built around a small pond of water, and to
-keep him without food until reduced by hunger. Food is eventually
-supplied, and withheld again whenever any symptoms of fierceness are
-manifested. Those in captivity have been captured, in most cases, when
-young.
-
-As early as 1685 a live specimen was carried to England from the East
-Indies, while a few years later another was exhibited extensively in
-Europe. Since then others of the species have been brought to Europe and
-America. Their behavior is very like a huge docile pig, and they obey
-some simple orders of their keepers, such as walking around the room on
-command and exhibiting themselves to spectators, opening and shutting
-their mouths as directed, and the like.
-
-One of these animals, still young, habitually indicated a very mild
-disposition, being very obedient to his keeper, whose caresses he
-received with much satisfaction. He was subject, however, to violent
-fits of passion, and at such times it was dangerous to approach him. He
-then made prodigious efforts to break his chains and escape from his
-bondage; but the offer of bread and fruits seldom failed to soothe his
-most terrible convulsions.
-
-Those persons found the most favor with him who ministered the most to
-his gormandizing appetites; and, when they appeared, he exhibited his
-satisfaction by opening his mouth and extending to them his long upper
-lip. The narrow limits of the cage in which he was shut up did not allow
-him to manifest much intelligence. The object of the keeper was to make
-him forget his strength, or forego its exercise; hence, nothing
-calculated to awaken his consciousness of power was required of him. To
-open his mouth, to move his head to the right or left, or to lift his
-leg were the usual acts by which he was required to testify his
-obedience. His strength, and the fear that in one of his passions he
-might break his cage, insured to him the most mild and soothing
-treatment, and he was scrupulously rewarded for the least thing he was
-required to do. The distinction he made of persons, and the great
-attention he paid to everything which passed around, demonstrated that,
-in more favorable circumstances, his intelligence might have been more
-strikingly manifested.
-
-Akin to the rhinoceros is the hippopotamus, a very fine specimen of
-which was exhibited in this country some years since, and realized for
-his Arab keeper quite a handsome sum, the Arab bringing him here on
-speculation and hiring him out to museum and circus managers. Between
-Hamet, the keeper, and Obaysch, the hippopotamus, considerable affection
-existed, probably even more on the animal’s part than on the man’s. Side
-by side they slept in Cairo, and during the first week of their voyage
-to Southampton. But as the weather grew warmer, and Obaysch larger and
-larger—he was quite young when captured and grew with the rapidity of
-all members of the swinish race—Hamet had a hammock slung from the beams
-immediately over the place where he had been accustomed to sleep; just
-over, in fact, his side of the bed, his position being raised some two
-or three feet. Assuring Obaysch, not only by words but by extending one
-arm over the side so as to touch him, Hamet got into his hammock and
-fell asleep, when he was suddenly awakened by a jerk and a hoist, only
-to find himself close by the side of his “compagnon du voyage.” Another
-experiment at separate sleeping was attended by the same successful
-movements on the part of Obaysch, and, till they arrived at Southampton,
-Hamet desisted from any farther trial, as he avoided in all ways any
-irritation of the animal. On the voyage to this country he slept with
-his huge charge, who at sea especially, seemed more content, and to feel
-safer, when his keeper was at his side.
-
-Another anecdote is related of this huge beast:
-
-One morning during the voyage, Hamet, from some cause or other, absented
-himself from Obaysch a little longer than usual, when he ran through his
-octave of cries, from the most plaintive to the most violent, and then
-was profoundly silent. “Hamet,” says the narrator, “thought his freedom
-was achieved, and then, with the air of an emancipated serf, he opened
-his wicket, and condescended to return to his tyrant—tyrant no longer,
-as he hoped. Hippo awaited him with a twinkle of his infant eye—that
-curious, prominent, versatile eye, which looks everywhere at once—as he
-floated in the tank, so as to command the interior of his home. Hamet,
-in his great fidelity, used to keep part of his wardrobe in an angle of
-the roof, for convenience of making his toilet without annoying his
-charge by unnecessary absence. The bundle in which these choice
-vestments were secured had been pushed down by the revengeful infant,
-rubbed open with his blunt nose during that ominous silence, and finally
-left in such a state, that neither Hamet, nor any other being,
-Mohammedan or Christian, could ever don them again. Hamet is a
-well-conducted Mussulman, and not given to indulging in profane
-language, but he addressed Hippo in terms of the strongest reprehension.
-Hippo twinkled his eye and shook his head, blew a little trumpet through
-his nostrils, and smiled in triumphant malevolence.”
-
-Nothing among modern shows can compare with the old amphitheatrical
-exhibitions of the Romans. For these, large numbers of animals were
-collected from the shores of Africa and India; in the contests of the
-arena they were slaughtered by wholesale. Eutropius states, and his
-assertion is corroborated by other writers, that 5,000 wild beasts of
-all kinds were slain at the dedication of the amphitheater of Titus.
-Pompey, at the opening of his theater, exhibited a variety of games and
-battles with wild beasts in which 500 lions were killed in five days;
-and in another exhibition the tragedy consisted in “the massacre of 100
-lions and an equal number of lionesses, 200 leopards, and 300 bears.”
-Even if public taste at the present day would tolerate such butchery, it
-would be rather too expensive with lions costing from $2,000 to $4,000
-each. In those days, of course, the cost was much less; in fact, the
-price of wild beasts in this country is usually ten times their price in
-their native regions. This profit is necessary to cover the great cost
-of transportation, feeding and the risks of death or accidents on the
-passage. Insurance companies consider them too risky to insure. Prices,
-however, fluctuate greatly, according to the demand, and an animal worth
-to-day $1,000 may be worth only $200 next month, though he be in equally
-good condition.
-
-In the days when “ordeals” were used to prove the guilt or innocence of
-accused persons, the Brahmin priests of Hindoostan made use of
-crocodiles for this purpose. The accused was compelled to swim across a
-river infested with these animals and his fate decided the question of
-his guilt or innocence. There is good reason to believe that there was
-trickery in these tests; that crocodiles were tamed and kept in one part
-of the river while those of the other portions of the stream remained in
-their savage state. The Brahmins could thus predetermine the fate of the
-persons submitting to the ordeal, and doubtless had those whom they
-desired to favor cross among the tame animals, while others whom they
-feared or hated were placed at the mercy of the wild ones. Tame
-crocodiles are by no means rarities; the Egyptian priests after
-rendering them docile, placed bracelets upon their forefeet, and hung
-rings and precious stones in the opercula of their ears, which were
-bored for the purpose, and then presented them for adoration of the
-people.
-
-The means used in taming the crocodile seem to have been principally
-kind treatment and tempting food. This plan is pursued even to the
-present day in Egypt, India, and other countries. Several individual
-cases are on record giving details of the taming process. Mr. Laing saw
-at the house of the king of the Soulimas—a negro race occupying the
-country near the river Joliba, on the coast of Sierra Leone—a tamed
-crocodile as gentle as a dog; but this animal was confined a prisoner in
-a pond in the palace. The Scheik of Suakem—a seaport in Nubia, on the
-west coast of the Red Sea—having caught a young crocodile, tamed it, and
-kept it in a pond near the sea. The animal grew very large, but did not
-lose his docility. The prince placed himself upon the animal’s back, and
-was carried a distance of more than three hundred steps. In the island
-of Sumatra, in the year 1823, an immense crocodile established himself
-at the mouth of the Beanjang; he had chased away all the other
-crocodiles and devoured all of them who ventured to return. The
-inhabitants rendered him divine homage, and respectfully supplied him
-with food. “Pass,” said they to the English missionaries who relate the
-fact, and who were afraid to approach the formidable creature; “pass on,
-our god is merciful.” In fact he peacefully regarded the Europeans and
-their boat, without giving any signs either of anger, fear, or a desire
-to attack them.
-
-The following account is given of a tame crocodile, in a private letter,
-quoted in a review of the Erpètologie Gènèrale, and affords
-corroborative proof of the foregoing statements. The writer, having
-ridden a considerable distance to a village about eight miles from
-Kurachee, in Scinde, and feeling thirsty, went to a pool to procure some
-water. “When I got to the edge,” says he, “the guide who was with me
-pointed out something in the water, which I had myself taken to be the
-stump of a tree; and although I had my glasses on, I looked at it for
-some time before I found that I was standing within three feet of an
-immense alligator. I then perceived that the swamp was crowded with
-them, although they were all lying in the mud so perfectly motionless
-that a hundred people might have passed without observing them. The
-guide laughed at the start I gave, and told me that they were quite
-harmless, having been tamed by a saint, a man of great piety, whose tomb
-was to be seen on a hill close by; and that they continued to obey the
-orders of a number of fakirs, who lived around the tomb. I proceeded to
-the village immediately, and got some of the fakirs to come down to the
-water with a sheep. One of them then went close to the water with a long
-stick, with which he struck the ground, and called to the alligators,
-which immediately came crawling out of the water, great and small
-together, and lay down on the bank all around him. The sheep was then
-killed and quartered; and while this was going on, the reptiles
-continued crawling until they had made a complete ring around us. The
-fakir kept walking about within the circle, and if any one attempted to
-encroach, he rapped it unmercifully on the snout with his stick, and
-drove it backward. Not one of them attempted to touch him, although they
-showed rows of teeth that seemed able to snap him in two at a bite. The
-quarters of the sheep were then thrown to them, and the scene that
-followed was so indescribable that I shall not attempt it; but I think
-that if you will turn to Milton, and read his account of the
-transformation of Satan and his crew in Pandemonium, you may form some
-faint idea ‘how dreadful was the din.’ In what manner these monsters
-were first tamed I cannot say. The natives, of course, ascribe it to the
-piety of the saint, who is called Miegger Pier, or Saint Crocodile.”
-
-The alligators of this country, though seldom tamed even for public
-exhibition, might readily be, as they do not differ in any important
-respect from the crocodiles.
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER XV.
-                      EDUCATION OF CATS AND GOATS.
-
-
-Cats do not appear to be favorite subjects of the trainer’s art, and it
-is rare that they are met with among performing animals. Perhaps their
-sly, treacherous nature inspires a prejudice, or perhaps their capacity
-for learning is underrated. Certainly with proper and patient training
-they may be taught nearly all of the simpler tricks performed by dogs,
-and some which dogs cannot, from lack of equal agility. That cats
-possess considerable intelligence is shown by the many well
-authenticated stories related of them. A specimen is that told by Mr.
-Crouch, of a cat who learned to unlock a door of her own accord. “There
-was,” writes this gentleman, “within my knowledge, in the house of my
-parentage, a small cupboard in which were kept milk, butter, and other
-requisites for the tea table, and the door was confined by a lock, which
-from age and frequent use could easily be made to open. To save trouble
-the key was always kept in the lock, in which it revolved on a very
-slight impulse. It was often a subject of remark, that the door of this
-cupboard was found wide open, and the milk or butter greatly diminished
-without any imaginable reason, and notwithstanding the persuasion that
-the door had certainly been regularly locked. On watching carefully, the
-cat was seen to seat herself on the table, and by repeated pulling on
-the side of the bow of the key, it was at last made to turn, when a
-slight pull of the door caused it to move on its hinges. It had proved a
-fortunate discovery for puss, for a long time before she was taken in
-the act.”
-
-Cats may easily be taught to jump through hoops, climb poles, fetch and
-carry, and many similar performances, by adopting pretty nearly the same
-means as for instructing dogs. As cats are passionately fond of fish,
-this article will be found a valuable incentive to induce them to comply
-with your wishes. A small morsel should be given as a reward for each
-instance of obedience, while refractory conduct may be punished by a
-slight box on the ear.
-
-Cats may be taught to turn the handles of little organs—either real or
-mere silent imitations—or music boxes, to turn a little spinning-wheel,
-to pull a bell-rope, to fire a pistol and a multitude of similar tricks.
-These are all, indeed, but modifications of one another. To instruct the
-cat, it is well to commence by teaching her to give her paw, like a dog.
-When this is learned, place the paw on the handle of the organ, which
-may have a loop of tape or ribbon attached to keep the paw in place, and
-give it a few turns. Let go, but continue the circular movement of your
-hand near her paw, as an encouragement for her to move her paw in the
-same manner. Should she not do so after a few moments, take hold of her
-paw again and repeat the movement as before. As soon as she turns the
-handle even in the slightest degree without your holding her paw, reward
-her. It will not be long before she makes a more perceptible turn, and
-will be more prompt to do so. Eventually she need only to be shown the
-organ to understand what is desired of her.
-
-When she turns the organ satisfactorily other articles may be
-substituted, such as a miniature model of a spinning-wheel, and a single
-lesson will be sufficient to show her that her duties are the same as
-with the organ.
-
-To ring a bell, a pulling instead of a circular movement is required,
-but this is easier to teach. A bit of cloth may be attached to the
-string communicating with the bell, to afford the cat something
-convenient to seize hold of. It will be easy to induce her to seize it
-by holding it near her, or by aggravating her a little with it. When she
-does so, and causes the bell to ring, reward her. She will soon learn
-that the ringing of the bell is a signal for her to be fed, and that
-pulling the string causes that signal. Should you wish her to ring the
-bell only when ordered to do so, you should call her away, after she
-fully understands pulling the string, and then order her to “ring the
-bell.” If necessary, take hold of the string to show your meaning. When
-she has pulled it, reward her, call her away again, repeat the order,
-and so on until she understands your command. Should she ring then
-without orders, call her away and wait a few minutes before you again
-order her to ring.
-
-Firing off a pistol may follow this, taught in the same way, a piece of
-cloth being attached to the trigger, and the pistol being secured in a
-stationary position. Merely snapping the trigger will do at first, then
-caps may be used, and finally powder.
-
-A story is recorded of Cecco d’Ascoli and Dante on the subject of
-natural and acquired genius. Cecco maintained that nature was more
-potent than art, while Dante asserted the contrary. To prove his
-principle, the great Italian bard referred to his cat, whom, by repeated
-practice, he had taught to hold a candle in her paw while he supped or
-read. Cecco desired to witness the experiment and came not unprepared
-for his purpose. When Dante’s cat was performing her part, Cecco lifted
-up the lid of a pot which he had filled with mice. The creature of art
-instantly showed the weakness of a talent merely acquired, and dropping
-the candle, immediately flew on the mice with all her instinctive
-propensity. Dante was himself disconcerted, and it was adjudged that the
-advocate for the occult principle of native faculties had gained the
-cause.
-
-To make a cat a good ratter she must not be handled by children, or any
-other person; must be fed rather sparingly at regular times, and as much
-as possible on fresh meat, and usually by the same person. She will soon
-become accustomed to such circumstances, will answer the call of this
-person who can change her about to different parts of the house, as a
-night in the cellar, and so on. When treated in this way she will become
-shy and wild, but will soon be a terror to rats.
-
-Valmont de Bomare saw at the fair of St. Germain cats turned musicians;
-their performance being announced as the “mewing concert.” In the center
-was an ape beating time, and some cats were arranged on each side of
-him, with music before them on the stalls. At a signal from the ape,
-they regulated their mewing to sad or lively strains. Mons. Bisset
-having procured three kittens, commenced their education, with his usual
-patience. He at length taught these miniature tigers to strike their
-paws in such directions on the dulcimer as to produce several regular
-tunes, having music-books before them, and squalling at the same time in
-different keys or tones, first, second, and third, by way of concert. He
-was afterward induced to make a public exhibition of his animals, and
-the well known “cats’ opera” in which they performed, was advertised in
-the Haymarket theater. His horse, dog and monkeys, together with these
-cats, went through their parts with uncommon applause to crowded houses;
-and in a few days Bisset found himself possessed of nearly a thousand
-pounds to reward his ingenuity and perseverance.
-
-[Illustration: GOAT TRICK OF HINDOO JUGGLERS.]
-
-Another story of a cat we cannot refrain from giving: A lady who had a
-tame bird was in the habit of letting it out every day, and had taught a
-favorite cat not to touch it; but one morning as it was picking up
-crumbs from the carpet, the cat seized it on a sudden and jumped with it
-in her mouth upon the table. The lady was much alarmed for the safety of
-her favorite, but on turning about, instantly discovered the cause. The
-door had been left open, and a strange cat had just come into the room.
-After the lady had turned the strange cat out, her own cat came down
-from her place of safety, and dropped the bird, without doing it any
-injury.
-
-Goats may be taught many tricks heretofore described. It is best to
-commence their instruction when they are quite young, as when older they
-are apt to develop an obstinate disposition, besides not being so apt
-pupils as when young. Goats not being very fastidious as to what they
-eat—asparagus or brown paper being devoured with about the same apparent
-relish—almost anything in the shape of fruit, vegetables, or bread, will
-do as a reward for good conduct. Harshness seems only to arouse their
-obstinacy or increase their stupidity, and we doubt whether it ever does
-any good. If we did not really believe severity would only defeat the
-aims of the trainer, we should almost be tempted to leave goats to take
-their own chances for kind treatment; for ever since a venerable
-specimen of the animal butted us, in our youth, down a steep bank,
-merely because in stooping to pick up something, we furnished a
-temptation too strong for him to resist, we have felt an unconquerable
-prejudice against the whole tribe. But after all the trainer will find
-bribes better than blows.
-
-Many of the common tricks taught horses and dogs can be taught goats. As
-we have fully described the methods of teaching those animals it would
-be merely repetition to give minute details here; the method is
-substantially the same with goats as with horses or dogs, for the same
-tricks.
-
-The Hindoo jugglers use the goat in dexterous feats of balancing. The
-sure-footedness of the animal enables him to stand on the end of a
-section of bamboo cane whose surface barely affords room for his four
-feet. Sometimes this stick is placed upright, the lower end being
-secured in the ground. At other times the bamboo stick, with the goat
-standing on its end, is balanced on the hand, chin or nose of the
-juggler.
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER XVI.
-                   EDUCATED HOGS AND THEIR TRAINING.
-
-
-Hogs are not very intellectual animals, but, fortunately for the
-trainer, what they lack in intelligence is made up in appetite, and by
-appealing to their stomachs their education is accomplished. “Learned
-pigs” and “educated hogs” are more common in England than in this
-country, though, probably, like the opera, they will in time become an
-acclimated institution. We had the pleasure of seeing the performance of
-quite an excellent artist in the pork line, who was traveling through
-the eastern states under the title of “Wicked Will,” as a side show to a
-circus.
-
-Will traveled in a cage very similar to those used in menageries, except
-that it was smaller. This cage at the exhibitions was placed upon a
-platform with the grated part facing toward the audience. It was rather
-higher than was necessary to accommodate the hog, the upper part
-containing a number of compartments about six inches in depth, in which
-were kept corn, curry-combs, and other toilet articles. The exhibitor
-lifts the lid which covers these receptacles, takes a few grains of corn
-in his hand and drops them quietly on the carpet; then he opens a door
-at one of the small ends of the cage and Will emerges, grunting and
-sniffing around. The cage door is now shut, and while Will hunts for
-kernels of corn that have been scattered around, the exhibitor gives a
-little dose of natural history, hog characteristics, etc.
-
-[Illustration: EDUCATED HOG.]
-
-The performance commences by the exhibitor placing ten cards, on which
-the numerals from one to naught are printed, in regular order across the
-front of the platform. Then he asks Will a number of questions, such as
-the number of days in a week, in a month, in a year—it is of no
-consequence _what_, so long as the answers can be given in numbers. The
-hog goes slowly from card to card, with his nose down, commencing at the
-figure 1. When he comes to the right number he takes it in his mouth and
-brings it to his master.
-
-“Now,” says the exhibitor, “if any lady or gentleman will tell the hog
-the year they were born in, he’ll tell them their age.”
-
-Somebody in the crowd gives the date of his birth, and at his master’s
-command Will selects the figures showing the man’s age. This is repeated
-a number of times for different individuals, to the wonder of the crowd.
-Then a watch is borrowed and the hog tells, in the same manner, the hour
-and minutes.
-
-A suit of thirteen cards are substituted for the numbers, and the hog
-selects them as required to reply to various questions. After these have
-served their turn they are replaced by a number of cards on each of
-which is printed a single word in large type. Then the exhibitor
-continues in something like this manner:
-
-“Now, Will, I suppose you are very much obliged to these ladies and
-gentlemen for their attendance this evening; [Will selects cards, on
-which is printed Yes; and now, Will, I want you to tell these ladies and
-gentlemen what day this is [hog dues so]; and what are you going to give
-the ladies that come to see you? [Kiss.] Well, that’s very gallant! And
-what reward do you want for amusing these people? [Corn.] And what
-induces me to exhibit you? [Money.] So you think I am fond of money, do
-you? [Yes.] And I wonder if there is anything else I’m fond of? [Rum.]
-And what happens when I get a little too much of that article? [Drunk.]”
-
-And so on with a multitude of other questions which would be tiresome to
-repeat, but which it is quite amusing to see the hog answer. The card in
-each case would be brought to the exhibitor, who in all cases where the
-correct card was selected, dropped a few kernels of corn as a reward.
-Occasionally a wrong one would be brought, in which case a sly kick, or
-hit on the nose, was administered. Sometimes the hog seemed in doubt and
-would pick up a card and replace it, taking another; once or twice he
-stopped midway between two cards, turning his nose first toward one and
-then toward the other, squealing dismally, a very picture of perplexity.
-He had sense enough to know what he would get in case of a mistake. His
-mistakes, however, were very few.
-
-The whole performance really consists in the hog selecting the card
-under the direction of his master. If the latter be watched narrowly, it
-will be seen that he changes his position from time to time, as the hog
-passes from one card to another. If the hog stops before he reaches the
-proper card the trainer moves his foot in the direction in which the hog
-should go; if he passes it the foot is moved in the other direction.
-When no movement is made the hog knows he is before the right card and
-picks it up. When the hog becomes confused and frightened this movement
-of the foot is quite obvious to a close observer, for at such times the
-hog does not so readily take the cue. This signaling is the secret of
-the performance; but before the hog can understand these signals, or
-will pick up the cards, a regular system of training must be pursued.
-
-The pig—for the education begins when the animal is young—is first
-taught to come to the trainer when called. This is readily done by
-rewarding him when he obeys and thrashing him when he fails to do so. He
-is then taught to pick up articles in pretty much the same manner as in
-teaching dogs, and which we have already fully described. During the
-lessons the pig is rewarded with corn for obeying, and he is also fed
-immediately after his lesson, being kept a trifle hungry at other times.
-At first an ear of corn may be used in teaching him to pick up articles.
-He will naturally pick this up when placed on the ground. Instead of
-letting him keep it, however, call him to you, and on taking it away
-recompense him with some kernels of corn. He will soon learn that it
-pays better to bring you the ear over and over again, and be rewarded
-each time, than keep it himself. Then a cob without corn may be
-substituted. By-and-by cobs may be arranged in a row some foot or two
-apart, and the pig required to bring some one of them you have in mind.
-This is the difficult part; the pig will be inclined to pick up
-whichever comes handiest. This must be prevented by gently hitting his
-snout, and ordering him to “go on.” Always start him at the left of the
-line; you will be able thus to guide him better than when he goes
-hap-hazard. Keep on his left side, moving your foot toward him to keep
-him moving in the direction of the desired article. Avoid coming between
-him and the article. When he comes to it make no movement. If he picks
-it up, call him to you, take it from his mouth, reward him with corn,
-apple, or some other dainty, and replace the article in the row. If,
-however, he passes by it, change your position to his right side, and
-move your foot to urge him back.
-
-These movements of the foot, during tuition, are, of course, more
-vigorous than those used at public exhibitions. At first they merely
-threaten him and drive him in the required direction, but by-and-by he
-learns to observe them and to understand and profit by them. It is
-possible sometimes during the lessons to help the pig’s selection by
-pointing out the card or article, but this is not desirable, as it is of
-course unavailable in public, and the trainer must compel the animal to
-do his duty so soon as he is out of the “rudiments,” with no more help
-than can be used in public.
-
-Pigs are very fond of having their backs scratched, and this will often
-attach them to their instructor, make them more docile, and consequently
-more easily instructed. They are not very apt pupils, and though they
-_may_ be taught several tricks performed by dogs, it is very seldom
-their education extends beyond what we have described. We have known an
-exhibitor advertise a hog who would “go through the multiplication
-table,” but this proved to be a catch; a hoop being covered with paper
-on which the multiplication table was printed, the hog was made to jump
-through it. The humor of the “sell” saved the exhibitor from the
-indignation his deception might otherwise have aroused.
-
-In Holland, quite a number of years ago, a hog ran a race against a fast
-trotting horse. The training adopted to prepare the hog for this novel
-contest was a good illustration of “educating through the stomach,” and
-the performance sufficiently curious, we think, to warrant insertion
-here. Somewhat condensed the story is substantially this:
-
-A member of a sporting club at the Hague was bragging of the speed of a
-certain horse possessed by him. Another member asserted that he had a
-hog which he should not fear to match against him, and this proposal,
-though at first laughed at as a jest, ended in a match of six English
-miles, for one thousand guilders; fourteen days being allowed the owner
-of Nero, the hog, for training; and the horse to carry two persons. The
-course selected was the avenue leading from the Hague to the sea shore
-at Scheveningen; the hour, eleven o’clock.
-
-The first day’s training consisted in giving Nero nothing to eat. On the
-second day, at eleven o’clock, his master appeared, and fastening a rope
-securely to one of Nero’s hind trotters, drove him, with many a kick and
-forcible persuasion all the way over the course of Scheveningen. Here
-Nero received two herrings, which he ravenously devoured. It is said
-that hogs—or at least Dutch hogs—prefer fish to any other food. On this
-scanty meal Nero had to tramp home.
-
-The third day the hog was ravenous, but had to bide his time till, at
-eleven o’clock, his master presented himself for another trip to the
-course. After a liberal and energetic application to the booted foot,
-and a little loud and angry discussion between the two parties, they
-arrived at their journey’s end, where Nero was regaled with three
-herrings, being one extra, which he dispatched voraciously in double
-quick time, looking for more, but in vain. He was then, with much
-coaxing and kicking, persuaded to resume the return trip homeward, and
-which was safely accomplished, although not without considerable
-opposition, accompanied by vigorous squealing and determined grunting on
-the part of Nero.
-
-On the fourth day, when his master presented himself, Nero seemed to
-understand somewhat the object of his calling; he walked off, not only
-without compulsion, but with considerable alacrity, at a good round pace
-to get to his journey’s end, where his master regaled him not alone with
-his coveted dinner of three herrings, but, as a reward, yet another
-herring extra. On the fifth day Nero was fully up to the game, and his
-master experienced considerable difficulty to keep up with him. At
-Scheveningen the usual allowance—now of four herrings—was placed at his
-disposal, and disposed of by him in short meter.
-
-On the days following, and up to the time of the race, his master had no
-farther difficulty with Nero, but to keep up with him, Nero invariably
-taking the lead, although on the return trips the same difficulties
-always recurred. A vigorous application of boots was in such cases the
-only convincing argument with Nero, who never could see the point nor
-comprehend the necessity, of this back-track movement, and ever
-obstreperously squealed or grunted his objections. On the ninth day Nero
-had become perfectly trained, and having grown extremely thin upon his
-scanty meals, he now ran like a race-horse, invariably distancing his
-master, who followed with a fast trotting horse in harness. Both
-exercise and spare diet were, however, strictly adhered to up to the day
-preceding the one on which the race was to come off. On that, the
-thirteenth day, as on the first day, poor Nero was again starved. At the
-usual hour of eleven his master appeared, but Nero was doomed to
-disappointment—no trot, no herrings on that day. With eager eye and
-impatient grunt he signified his desire to be released from his pen;
-but, alas, it was not to be.
-
-On the fourteenth day both horse and hog appeared at the starting post,
-eager for the race. It was a beautiful day, and the road was lined the
-entire distance, on both sides, with anxious and delighted spectators
-eager to see the sport. Punctually at eleven o’clock, at tap of drum off
-they started, amidst the shouts and hurrahs of the multitude. The first
-two miles were closely contested—it was emphatically a neck and neck
-race; but Nero, light as feather, and having in his mind’s eye,
-probably, his delectable meal, now fairly flew over the course,
-gradually leaving the horse behind, keeping the lead the entire
-distance. Amidst shouts and hurrahs, the waving of handkerchiefs, and
-the wildest excitement, he reached the winning post, beating the horse
-by half a mile, and winning the race triumphantly.
-
-For this extraordinary performance, Nero was rewarded with a pailful of
-herrings, which, having feasted upon to his heart’s content, he waddled
-back to the Hague, in the care of his master, “the admired of all
-admirers.” His master, pocketing the purse of one thousand guilders,
-generously spent one hundred guilders for Nero’s portrait, which is now
-preserved at the sportsman’s club at the Hague.
-
-It is said that hogs may be taught to destroy thistles. The tuition
-consists only in trampling them down, mashing the buds, and sprinkling
-salt thereon. The hogs eat these at first on account of the salt, but in
-so doing they acquire a relish for the thistles themselves, and this
-taste once acquired the thistles are eagerly sought for and devoured. It
-is claimed that one hog that has been taught in this way will teach all
-others in the drove. Possibly seeing him eat they imagine they are
-losing a treat and so eat too. If this statement proves true, the hint
-may be useful to farmers.
-
-
-
-
-                             CHAPTER XVII.
-          PERFORMING MONKEYS—MONKEY EQUESTRIANS—THE “WONDERFUL
-                   CYNOCEPHALUS”—MONKEY ACTORS, ETC.
-
-
-In training performing monkeys the instructor is greatly aided by that
-imitative faculty which is a characteristic of the whole monkey family.
-The intense passion a monkey has for mimicking the actions of persons is
-well known, and to such an excessive degree is this passion sometimes
-possessed that several instances are on record of their cutting their
-own throats while attempting to shave themselves, having observed some
-man performing that operation. It is this imitative instinct which is
-taken advantage of in preparing monkeys for public exhibition. Indeed,
-their instruction consists mainly in the teacher performing the act
-himself, for the monkey to copy. This is the case with such tricks as
-taking off the hat, fencing with a little tin sword, sweeping with a
-little broom, and the like.
-
-During his instruction the pupil has a small leather belt around his
-body, to which is attached a cord several yards in length, which the
-trainer holds. The first thing taught is usually standing on the hind
-legs; this is done by holding the cord taut and the gentle application
-of a switch under the chin. This is not a natural position, still the
-animal can maintain it with comparative ease. Walking the tight rope is
-also easily accomplished, and furnished with a light balancing pole, he
-will go back and forth under the guidance of the “leading string” before
-mentioned. Jumping barriers or leaping through hoops held in the
-trainer’s hand, is taught by jerking the string and giving the monkey a
-slight cut with the whip. Hoops covered with tissue paper, or balloons,
-as they are technically called, may be substituted for the open ones
-after a few lessons, and add to the attractiveness of the performance.
-
-Dressed in male or female apparel, the monkey’s naturally comical
-appearance is greatly hightened. Thus, one may be dressed to represent a
-lady of fashion, while another personates her footman, who, dressed in
-gorgeous livery, supports her train. This is elaborated into quite a
-little scene at some exhibitions. A little barouche, drawn by a team of
-dogs, is driven on the stage, a monkey driving while a monkey footman
-sits solemn and erect upon his perch behind. A monkey lady and gentleman
-are seated inside, she with a fan and parasol, and he with a stovepipe
-hat. Around the stage several times the equipage is driven, until
-by-and-by one of the wheels comes off and a sudden stop results. Down
-the footman comes, opens the carriage door, assists gentleman to hand
-out lady—who has fainted in gentleman’s arms just as she ought under
-these trying circumstances, and in a style that would do credit to any
-belle in a similar accident at Central Park—gets chair from side of
-stage for her to sit in, while gentleman fans her till she gradually
-recovers. Coachman meantime gets down and goes after the lost wheel,
-which he rolls to the vehicle and places therein; then mounting his box,
-drives off, for repairs it is presumed. By this time the lady has
-recovered, takes the arm of her escort and follows after the carriage,
-while the footman brings up the rear, carrying the chair.
-
-[Illustration: MONKEY “MUSICIANS.”]
-
-This is apparently quite a complicated performance, but is not
-particularly difficult. Each performer is taught what he is to do, the
-most intelligent monkey being generally assigned the footman’s
-character. The dogs are taught to run around until the wheel comes off;
-this is their signal to stop. In teaching the monkeys their parts a
-portion only of the scene is taught at first; thus some days may be
-consumed in merely making the actors occupy their appointed positions
-properly—such slight improprieties as the footman jumping down upon the
-heads of the lady and gentleman, or the gentleman pulling the driver off
-his seat by the tail, or the lady banging her cavalier over the head
-with her parasol, and like exhibitions of playfulness, being checked by
-applications of the whip. Gradually the “business” of the scene is built
-up—each lesson including all performed up to that time and a little in
-advance; nuts, bread and an occasional bit of candy, being the rewards
-for success, and whip for failure therein. Each monkey knowing his name,
-and being called upon by name when his turn comes, he by-and-by learns
-the proper time to perform his assigned work without any prompting.
-
-The equestrian performances on pony or dog-back, styled “steeple
-chases,” and like tricks usually exhibited, scarcely require notice
-here. However amusing they may be it can hardly be said that the
-monkey’s part of the exhibition requires much of either intelligence or
-training, as he is usually strapped upon his steed and cannot very well
-help staying there. Sometimes, however, instead of tying the monkey in
-the saddle, a perch is erected on the fore part of the saddle, to which
-he clings frantically as the dog or pony rushes around the ring. This is
-no great improvement upon the strap, and the only training the monkey
-gets is a cut from the whip whenever he permits himself to be dislodged.
-For a trainer to break a monkey so as to ride a horse, carry a miniature
-flag, and hold on by the reins, is commonly considered a remarkable
-achievement. Occasionally though a monkey rider has been exhibited who
-has really performed in a manner not merely absurd. The most notable
-example of this kind was a huge ape of the cynocephalus or dog face
-family, exhibited in the winter of 1867–8 at Lent’s New York Circus,
-under the title of the “Wonderful Cynocephalus.”
-
-Monsieur Olivier, a French circus manager, had taken a troupe to India
-on speculation a short time previous to the Sepoy mutiny, on the
-breaking out of which his company disbanded, many joining the English
-troops. The manager then wandered in search of an opening for
-professional speculation, and while so doing attempted the training of
-several varieties of the monkey tribe. His success was by no means
-encouraging until, after years of failure, he came across the individual
-who is the subject of this sketch. The Cynocephalus was captured in
-Zanzibar, on the east cost of Africa, and from the first exhibited
-unusual intelligence, and after many months of patient training he was
-prepared to shine among equestrian stars. His débût was made at the
-Cirque Napoleon, where he immediately achieved celebrity. His
-performances afterward repeated in New York were equally successful, and
-a brilliant career was anticipated for him. Preparations had been made
-for his exhibition throughout the country, with the circus to which he
-was attached, but a week or two previous to starting on the summer tour
-the Cynocephalus was attacked with inflammation of the bowels, and
-though he rallied, and hopes were entertained of his recovery, he died
-some days before the time appointed for the start.
-
-[Illustration: THE “WONDERFUL CYNOCEPHALUS.”]
-
-Of his achievements in the ring it is only necessary to say that he went
-through all the feats usually displayed by a circus-rider, jumping upon
-the horse, standing on one leg, then holding the other in his hand, then
-standing on his head, following this by somersaults, and finishing off
-with the customary vaulting through balloons and over banners. There was
-all the while a gravity of demeanor and seriousness of countenance
-contrasting favorably with the self-satisfied smirks and meaningless
-grins of his human compeers.
-
-As regards his tuition, each act had been taught separately, the ape
-with a cord attached to a collar around his neck and the other end held
-by his master, being placed in the required position, the horse was then
-started, and in each instance where the ape quitted his position before
-the horse was stopped, a cut from the whip was administered; every time
-the ape retained the position till the horse had gone a certain number
-of times around the circle, he was rewarded with a sweetmeat. Each time
-a change of position was to be made, which was always after a particular
-number of “rounds,” the horse was stopped and the ape made to take the
-new posture. These attitudes followed one another in regular sequence,
-and soon a mere change in the music was substituted for the stoppage
-each time the horse had been around the customary number of times. A
-hint from the whip was sufficient to remind the ape that he was to make
-a change. The banner and balloon tricks were readily taught by making
-him first leap them, when offered, while the horse was standing still,
-and afterward when in motion. The system of reward or punishment for
-success or failure was always kept up, and in his public performances a
-close observer would have noticed at any failure a frightened look from
-the ape and a sly cut of the whip, while after each successful feat a
-little sweetmeat was received from the pocket of the ring-master.
-
-A very popular scene at exhibitions of performing animals is that in
-which a number of monkeys are seated around a table, spread for a feast.
-Two or three monkeys personate waiters and bring in, first candles, and
-then in succession the various courses, really consisting of things
-suited to monkey stomachs, but considered by theatrical license to be
-the customary viands of a grand feast. Bottles of water-wine conclude
-the repast. This is actually one of the simplest things for the trainer
-to accomplish. The guests being tied in their high chairs, their little
-bibs pinned around their necks, the only farther trouble with them is to
-keep them from fighting or stealing each other’s rations. The waiters
-bringing in the things, especially the lighted candles, look very pretty
-and very intelligent. This part is taught by having two strings attached
-to the monkey. The end of one of these strings is held by the trainer,
-the end of the other by an assistant off the stage. The assistant places
-an article in the monkey’s paw and slacks up his line, while the trainer
-hauls in on his, and by this very simple arrangement, first one and then
-the other hauling, the monkey learns to make the passage to and from the
-stage. Should he drop his load before reaching the person to whom he is
-traveling, a long whip-lash reminds him of his mistake, and the article
-is replaced in his hand, or he kept by it until he picks it up. It
-doesn’t take long to teach him that when he is given an article by one
-of his “workers” he is to take it to the other, and then the strings may
-be dispensed with, though a fine but strong twine is sometimes used even
-in public exhibitions, and we recall one occasion at a New York theater
-where the waiter got the twine entangled in some impediment and was held
-midway till released by the exhibitor. Though the twine could not be
-seen by the audience, the cause of the difficulty was too obvious to be
-mistaken, and some rather sarcastic applause was bestowed. On another
-occasion, in a neighboring city, we witnessed a squabble among the
-monkey guests, a general clawing and biting, ending with the upsetting
-of the chairs and the scampering off of the monkeys with chairs “hitched
-on behind.”
-
-The “drill exercise,” performed with a little musket, which the monkey
-fires off at the close, is a common but always popular exhibition. Any
-one who has seen a green recruit “put through” by the drill-sergeant can
-form a pretty correct idea of the method of training pursued in the case
-of the monkey. The instructor takes the required positions himself,
-using his whip in lieu of a musket, giving the word of command as he
-does so. Until the monkey understands these orders the trainer places
-his musket in the right position for him whenever he fails to do it
-himself. In case of willful disobedience or obstinacy, the whip is
-restored to its primary use, while good conduct is rewarded with equal
-promptness.
-
-Sham fights are sometimes arranged for a number of monkeys. In this
-performance each monkey is taught his particular part, and rehearses it
-with the trainer till thoroughly familiar with it; then each monkey
-rehearses with the one with whom he is to act, until, as all become
-perfect in their parts, the whole act together. In rehearsing the
-monkeys perform each action at the word of command, being called by
-name. The mimicry natural in monkeys has here to be checked, otherwise
-the performance would be thrown into confusion by each copying the
-other’s acts. The monkeys are, therefore, punished for any movement
-without orders, or for responding when another’s name is called.
-
-To be trained successfully, monkeys must be taken when young, and the
-degree of docility and intelligence varies greatly with different
-species. The entellus monkey, a slender and graceful native of the
-Indian Archipelago, whose light fur makes a strong contrast with its
-black face and extremities, exhibits great gentleness and playfulness
-when young, but these traits change, as it becomes older, to distrust
-and listless apathy, and, finally, it becomes as mischievous as others
-who have never displayed any particular indications of good temper.
-
-Some varieties seem to possess the ability to actually plan and carry
-out quite complicated operations, which, in a state of nature, are as
-remarkable as any of their performances in captivity. The mottled
-baboons display this in their robberies of the orchards of their native
-country. A part enter the enclosure, while one is set to watch, and the
-remainder of the party form a line outside the fence, reaching from
-their companions within to their rendezvous in the neighboring woods.
-The plunderers in the orchard throw the fruit to the first member of
-this line, who throws it to the next, and so it is passed along until it
-reaches headquarters, where it is safely concealed. All the time this is
-being done the utmost silence is maintained, and their sentinel keeps a
-sharp lookout. Should any one approach he gives a loud cry, at which
-signal the whole company scamper off, though always taking a load of
-fruit in their retreat, if possible, in their mouths, under their arms,
-and in their hands. If hotly pursued this is dropped piecemeal, but only
-when absolutely necessary to enable them to escape.
-
-As the disposition varies with different species, so also must the
-system of training. While one will require considerable severity,
-another can be made to perform only by being well treated and liberally
-rewarded. Once at the old Broadway theater, in New York, a very
-celebrated monkey stopped in the middle of a tight-rope performance and
-refused to continue. His master threatened, scolded, and finally flogged
-him very thoroughly, but he only jabbered and howled, and could not be
-made to finish his performance; his master ending by taking him in his
-arms and carrying him off the stage.
-
-Many monkeys have a great liking for strong drink, and this weakness is
-frequently taken advantage of by other trainers to induce them to
-perform; a bribe of a little liquor often proving a more powerful
-incentive than anything else. A mandril, who, at one time, created
-considerable excitement in London, where he was exhibited under the
-title of “Happy Jerry,” was a remarkable example of monkey devotedness
-to the rosy god. Gin and water was his besetting weakness, and to obtain
-it he would make any sacrifice or perform anything within the bounds of
-possibility. In some instances sugar brandy-drops are used in public
-exhibitions as rewards, though this is done sparingly.
-
-Besides these weaknesses of appetite, to which their trainers appeal,
-monkeys have a fondness for petting. Jardine mentions one of the
-shooloch species who was particularly pleased with caresses. He would
-lie down and allow his head to be combed and the long hair of his arms
-to be brushed, and seemed delighted with the tickling sensation produced
-by the brush on his belly and legs. Turning from side to side, he would
-first hold out one limb and then the other.
-
-[Illustration: BABOON FINDING WATER ROOTS.]
-
-It is rare that any of the monkey tribe have been made available for any
-really useful purpose. Occasionally, we believe, they have been made to
-turn spits, and one case is recorded of a monkey on shipboard who was
-taught to wash dishes and perform several other of the minor duties of
-the culinary department, under the supervision of the cook. Among the
-Kaffirs of Africa a particular species of baboon, the chacma, is trained
-for a somewhat novel purpose. These chacmas will eat anything a man
-will, and torment the natives grievously by pillaging their gardens. The
-tables are, however, in some cases turned, and the chacmas made to
-provide food for the Kaffirs instead of deriving it from them.
-
-The ordinary food of the chacma is a plant called babiana, from the use
-which the baboons make of it. It is a subterranean root, which has the
-property of being always full of watery juice in the driest weather, so
-that it is of incalculable value to travelers who have not a large
-supply of water with them, or who find that the regular fountains are
-dried up. Many Kaffirs have tame chacmas which they have captured when
-very young, and which have scarcely seen any of their own kind. These
-animals are very useful to the Kaffirs, for if they come upon a plant or
-a fruit which they do not know they offer it to the baboon, and if he
-eats it they know that it is suitable for human consumption.
-
-On their journeys the same animal is very useful in discovering water,
-or, at all events, the babiana roots, which supply a modicum of moisture
-to the system, and serve to support life until water is reached. Under
-these circumstances, the baboon takes the lead of the party, being
-attached to a long rope, and allowed to run about as he likes. When he
-comes to a root of babiana he is held back until the precious vegetable
-can be taken entire out of the ground, but, in order to stimulate the
-animal to farther exertions, he is allowed to eat a root now and then.
-
-The search for water is conducted in a similar manner. The wretched
-baboon is intentionally kept without drink until he is half mad with
-thirst, and he is then led by a cord as before mentioned. He proceeds
-with great caution, standing occasionally on his hind legs to sniff the
-breeze, and looking at and smelling every tuft of grass. By what signs
-the animal is guided no one can even conjecture; but if water is in the
-neighborhood the baboon is sure to find it. So, although this animal is
-an inveterate foe of the field and garden, he is not without his uses to
-man when his energies are rightly directed.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-
-
-                             CHAPTER XVIII.
-                   RATS—MICE—FROGS—TOADS—FLEAS, ETC.
-
-
-Rats generally are not favorites. There seems to be born in the human
-race a natural antipathy to these animals, and the preference with most
-persons would be rather to exterminate them than to attempt to tame
-them. Still rats _may_ be tamed, though it must be confessed they are
-rather unattractive subjects, their odor being disgusting and their bite
-poisonous, probably from particles of putrid flesh adhering to their
-teeth—in many recorded cases fatally so.
-
-Probably most readers have heard the story of the Frenchman, we forget
-his name, who was doomed to expiate some political offense in a dungeon
-cell; and how, to relieve the dreary loneliness and torturing monotony
-of his solitary existence, he strove to win the confidence of a rat
-which stole timidly forth from some crevice to pick up the crumbs
-dropped by the prisoner from his frugal meals. By slow degrees he
-labored to achieve his purpose, dropping a few crumbs on the floor and
-waiting motionless till the animal had come from his retreat and taken
-them; then, as the rat’s timidity gave way under the influence of this
-kindness, the man enticed him to eat from his hand, to climb up his leg
-into his lap, and by-and-by to permit himself to be handled, until at
-last the rat would nestle in the man’s bosom, come at his call, and in
-many ways display his affections for his master.
-
-Mice are less ferocious than rats, more easily managed, and also make
-better performers, if it is desired to teach them tricks. The process of
-training is the same with both. In securing your captive, a trap which
-does it no injury should be used. To say nothing of the cruelty, an
-animal that is partially disabled or suffering pain, is not in a
-condition to learn well. The best traps are those in which wires are so
-arranged as to permit an easy entrance while they present an array of
-sharp points to prevent an exit.
-
-The first thing after the capture is to tie a piece of fine but strong
-twine to the captive’s tail. This may be done without removing from the
-trap, or a wire or tin cage; he should be kept until so far tamed that
-he will not attempt to gnaw the string and escape when taken from his
-prison. During this time he should be well treated, supplied with food
-and water, and in no way irritated or alarmed. At the end of a day or so
-he may be allowed to come out upon a table, while the string which
-retains him is held securely. He will, probably, run around to examine
-the locality and then make an attempt to escape. At this point he must
-be gently but firmly drawn back, and we would advise that the first
-lesson consist merely in teaching him the uselessness of these attempts.
-At the next lesson a light wand, of willow or other wood, about twenty
-inches long, should be provided. Shortening the confining string so as
-to have your animal “well in hand,” you make him travel back and forth
-across the table in a straight line several times, guiding him by
-placing your wand in his way whenever he swerves from the correct
-course. Then make him go in a circle, then along a piece of board, or
-books laid on an edge, and any other convenient exercises to habituate
-him to follow your guidance. Remember, in doing this, that your object
-is to teach him—not to torment him. This wand is the real key to the
-performances of rats and mice. Though, these animals, doubtless, possess
-considerable sagacity, nearly all the tricks we have ever seen them
-perform have been mere obedience to the guidance of the exhibitor; so
-that when your pupil will go in the desired direction at the slightest
-hint with your wand, the main part of his training is accomplished, and
-you have only to arrange various little tricks in which the obedience
-will come in play.
-
-By placing an obstacle in his way of such a shape as he cannot readily
-climb over, and urging him forward, he may be taught to leap; soon
-little hoops of wire or wood may be held for him to jump through, and
-these may be raised gradually with successive lessons until he will
-spring a considerable distance into the air to go through them. During
-all the time of training it should be your object to tame your pupil and
-inspire him with confidence in you; this will enable you eventually to
-remove the string which secures him, and so add to the credit of your
-exhibition. He should also be accustomed to take food from your hand or
-from the point of a bit of stick. This will serve as the foundation of
-many amusing tricks. Thus a small piece of cheese may be placed on the
-end of a string or wire so arranged that the removal of the cheese will
-cause a little bell to ring or produce some other pleasing effect. After
-the first few lessons with this arrangement, in which the mouse will
-have become accustomed to securing his food in this way, the cheese may
-be simply _rubbed_ on sufficiently to induce him to bite at it. He
-should at first be guided up to it with the wand and tapped gently under
-his chin to induce him to rise and seize it. A variation of this is the
-trick of carrying articles in his mouth. First give him some article
-thoroughly smeared with cheese; the desire to secure the cheese will
-make him take it; then by urging and guiding him with your wand you can
-make him carry it about; being loth to relinquish the cheese, he will
-retain the whole. The amount of this bait used may be gradually
-diminished. By-and-by he may be made to convey little articles to and
-fro between two persons seated at opposite sides of the table. To do
-this, as well as for general convenience, it is well to accustom your
-pupil to come to you at some particular sound. This may be either the
-snapping of the finger nails or some slight noise of the mouth. It is
-easily done by making the noise, and, at the same time, pulling him
-toward you by the string attached to his tail. When he reaches you
-reward him with a morsel of cheese or bread, and repeat from day to day
-until he will come upon hearing the call.
-
-Rats or mice may be used as motive powers to operate little models of
-machinery. This requires no training, as they are merely placed in a
-tread-mill contrivance, and being kept there their weight causes the
-works to move and compels the animal to keep up the motion.
-
-[Illustration: RAT AS A MOTIVE POWER.]
-
-A little performance, a la Blondin, may be arranged for your mouse by
-stretching a piece of wire sufficiently stout to afford him a firm
-foothold, from two posts, about a foot in hight, fastened into a board.
-The ends of the wire may be at an angle, and also be secured to the
-board. Being guided by your wand up the slanting wire upon the main one,
-the dexterity with which he will run about upon it is quite surprising.
-If he has been already taught to hold things in his mouth he may be
-given a piece of wood, about the thickness of an ordinary friction match
-and twice its length, to represent a balancing pole, and this may be
-adorned at each end by a balancing flag or bit of ribbon. The _real_
-“balancer,” however, is the animal’s tail, which he will wriggle from
-side to side to preserve his equilibrium.
-
-In the summer of 1867 one of the most attractive of the outdoor shows
-exhibited in Paris was that of “the man of rats,” well known to the
-inhabitants of the Quartier Mont Parnasse, where he has held his
-headquarters for the last thirty years. The name of this Rarey of the
-rat race is Antoine Leonard. If the former succeeded in breaking in the
-worst tempered brute ever created, Leonard in three weeks certainly
-accomplished the difficult task of cultivating habits of obedience in
-the biggest rats that ever ran. His favorite scenes of action are some
-cross alleys in the 14th and 15th Arondissement. His sole theater is a
-sort of perch which he sticks into the ground, and then he takes his
-corps de ballet out of his pocket. At his word of command the rats run
-up and down the perch, hang on three legs, then on two, stand on their
-heads, and in fact go through a series of gymnastic exercises that would
-put Blondin himself to the blush. His crack actor is a gray rat that he
-has had in his troupe for eleven years. This old fellow not only obeys
-Leonard, but is personally attached to him. It is a most curious sight
-to see Leonard put him on the ground, and then walk away. The creature
-runs after him, and invariably catches him however many turns he may
-make to avoid him. An Englishman offered fifty francs for him about two
-years ago, but Leonard would not separate from his old and attached
-friend.
-
-Some time ago, in passing through Beekman street, in this city, our
-attention was attracted by quite a large crowd gazing intensely at the
-telegraph wires which pass through the street. Following the example of
-the rest, we at last discerned, high up on the topmost wire, a mouse,
-that was running along evidently in search of some safe descent from his
-novel position. It seems that some boy had caught him, and the fact that
-the wires in that vicinity pass close to the windows of the buildings,
-had, doubtless, suggested the idea of placing him thereon. Whether the
-mouse would have persevered and traveled on to Albany, thus furnishing
-an example of sending articles by telegraph, it is impossible to say,
-for some person at a window within reach of the wire, by vigorous
-shaking, succeeded in dislodging him, and he fell to the ground among a
-crowd of boys who were eagerly waiting to receive him. In the scramble
-that followed he was captured, and borne off in triumph by a newsboy.
-
-A shrewd dodge is related by a New York paper of a certain saloon
-keeper, who has been greatly annoyed by persons who sit about in chairs
-to sleep off the effects of bad whiskey. He has caught and tamed several
-rats, and trained them to run across the floor. A sitter wakes up and
-sees the rats running, and calls attention to the fact, when he is told
-there are no rats there. This frightens the man, who thinks he has got
-the tremens, and he quickly disappears from the saloon.
-
-Frogs are made pets of in some countries. In Vienna may be seen gilt
-cages containing small frogs of a pretty green color, which are kept in
-drawing rooms, and amuse by their gambols. Curious stories are told of
-the domestication of the tree-frog, which is a native of warm countries.
-It is said of Dr. Townson, that he had two pet frogs of this variety. He
-kept them in a window, and appropriated to their use a bowl of water, in
-which they lived. They grew quite tame; and to two which he had in his
-possession for a considerable time, and were particular favorites, the
-doctor gave the names of Damon and Musidora. In the evening they seldom
-failed to go into the water, unless the weather was cold and damp; in
-which case they would sometimes abstain from entering it for a couple of
-days. When they came out of the water, if a few drops were thrown upon
-the board, they always applied their bodies as close to it as they
-could; and from this absorption through the skin, though they were
-flaccid before, they soon again appeared plump. A tree-frog, that had
-not been in the water during the night, was weighed and then immersed;
-after it had remained half an hour in the bowl, it came out, and was
-found to have absorbed nearly half its own weight of water. From other
-experiments, it was discovered that these animals frequently absorbed
-nearly their whole weight of water, and that, as was clearly proved, by
-the under surface only of the body. They will even absorb water from
-wetted blotting-paper. Sometimes they will eject water with considerable
-force from their bodies, to the quantity of a fourth part or more of
-their weight. Before the flies had disappeared in the autumn, the doctor
-collected for his favorite tree-frog, Musidora, a great quantity as
-winter provision. When he laid any of them before her she took no notice
-of them, but the moment he moved them with his breath she sprang upon
-and ate them. Once, when flies were scarce, the doctor cut some flesh of
-a tortoise into small pieces, and moved them by the same means; she
-seized them, but the instant afterward rejected them from her tongue.
-After he had obtained her confidence she ate from his fingers dead as
-well as living flies. Frogs will leap at the moving of any small object;
-and, like toads, they will also become sufficiently familiar to sit on
-the hand, and submit to be carried from one side of a room to the other,
-to catch flies as they settle on the wall. This gentleman, accordingly,
-made them his guards for keeping the flies from his dessert of fruit,
-and they performed their task highly to his satisfaction.
-
-Another, yet more remarkable frog, is told of by a Virginia gentleman:
-“Concerning this frog,” says he, “it has lived many years with us and is
-a great favorite, and the greatest curiosity is its becoming so
-remarkably tame. It had frequented our door steps before our hall door
-some years before my acquaintance commenced with it. My father had
-admitted it for years on account of its size and color, and he visited
-it every evening, when it would come forth at his summons, and by
-constant feeding he brought it to be so tame that it would come to him
-and look up as if expecting to be taken up and brought to the table and
-fed on insects of all sorts. On presenting living insects it fixes its
-eyes intently and remains motionless for a while as if preparing for a
-strike, which is an instantaneous throwing of its tongue to a great
-distance, upon which the insect sticks fast to the tip by a glutinous
-matter. I can’t say how long my father had been acquainted with it; from
-my earliest recollection he spoke of it as ‘Old Tom,’ ‘the old frog.’ I
-have known it for a great number of years—I can answer for fifty-seven
-years. It makes its appearance (always a welcome visitor) with warm
-weather and remains with us till fall, appearing morning and evening to
-our great amusement, having been trained to do many things, such as
-leaping, turning somersaults holding alternately by its feet and hands
-to a small rope, swinging and whirling, after the manner of a slack rope
-performer, marching erect oh its hind legs, and at the word of command
-going through the manual exercise. It seems perfectly good natured, and
-never shows temper, but is dreadfully afraid of a cat, on whose approach
-it will often leap four feet from the floor, with the utmost precision,
-plump into the mouth of a large stone water pitcher, and thus secure a
-safe retreat. Yet it is in no wise alarmed or disturbed by the presence
-of dogs, of which we have many about the premises. They all seem to
-regard it as one of the household and a ‘privileged character.’”
-
-Were not this story apparently well attested we might doubt some of the
-details, as our own experience has shown that, while frogs are easily
-tamed, and may be taught quite readily to perform such simple feats as
-leaping, clinging to a string while swinging, and the like, they yet
-seem to possess no aptitude for learning any more elaborate feats. Some
-of our readers may, perhaps, be as successful as this gentleman was, and
-in that case we should be pleased to have them let us know of it.
-
-It may easily be imagined that the capture and training of fleas would
-require a patience almost rivaling Job’s, and a skill which, in its
-particular way, might almost be called a triumph of genius. Yet that has
-been done, and some years ago a man gave exhibitions of what he termed
-“educated fleas,” which were quite popular and successful. This man was
-a German, who, at the time we speak of, was somewhat more than sixty
-years of age, and had been, with true Teutonic steadfastness, about
-twenty years engaged in his strange vocation. Fortunately he was endowed
-with a sharp pair of eyes, which not only enabled him to keep track of
-his little performers, over three score in number, but also to make the
-minute “properties” used in the exhibition.
-
-This “artist in fleas” took considerable pains to secure choice
-specimens for his collection, and had arrangements whereby they were
-forwarded to him by mail, carefully packed in cotton, from localities
-noted for their superior breeds. When not in use the fleas are packed
-away in pill-boxes between layers of cotton. They are fed twice each
-day; the manner of feeding being to allow each to suck one drop of blood
-from the trainer’s bare arm. This would be an ordeal few of our readers
-would probably care to submit to, but the hero of the sixty fleas had
-become so accustomed to it that he didn’t mind it in the least, and, for
-aught we know, rather enjoyed it.
-
-The intelligence of fleas is not of a very high order, and their
-“education” is really very limited; the seeming marvels they perform
-being mainly clever management on the part of their exhibitor. When
-first received they are secured with a halter of the finest imaginable
-silk to prevent escape. The first thing they are taught is _not_ to
-jump. For this purpose the end of the halter is secured to a pin in the
-table, and each jump naturally results in the prisoner being upset with
-a sudden jerk, with, no doubt, a rather unpleasant sensation about the
-neck. Sometimes a sharp pressure upon certain muscles is resorted to for
-checking this jumping propensity. Being well fed and well treated, when
-it behaves itself, even a flea will become tame. Punishment, too, for
-rebellious conduct is also practiced. As fleas are not well adapted for
-being flogged a new device is resorted to, a piece of burning charcoal,
-or heated wire, is held over them until they are subdued.
-
-The usual performances consist in little coaches being drawn about by
-fleas harnessed up, while others of the troupe personate riders,
-coachmen and footmen. Then there is the ball-room scene, where fleas
-waltz around to the imaginary music of an orchestra of fleas, furnished
-with minute imitations of various instruments. There are also quite a
-variety of other tricks, but they are all pretty much the same in
-principle. The main secret in these performances is a piece of very thin
-wire, some ten or so inches in length, which the exhibitor holds in his
-hand during the entertainment. The end of this wire is greased with
-butter, which appears to possess a strong influence upon the fleas, for
-they will eagerly follow the wire in whatever direction it is moved. The
-audience, ignorant of this fact, attach no importance to the exhibitor’s
-directing with it the movement of his performers, and may even consider
-their following it a proof of superior training. By this means the fleas
-may easily be made to go through the desired movements.
-
-Where the fleas occupy a stationary position a trick is resorted to
-which if on a large scale would be clumsy, but which in this instance
-defies the sharpest eyes to detect. The insects are fastened in their
-positions. Aided by the costumes with which they are encumbered, this is
-not difficult to accomplish. Natural movements are also made to pass for
-seemingly wonderful effects. Thus the performance of the musicians is
-nothing but the customary wriggling of the fleas. Any insect in a
-confined position will seize hold of a light article whether it be
-shaped like a fiddle or not, and twirl it about. With the fleas it is
-impossible for the spectator to distinguish exactly what the motion
-is—it is so rapid and everything is so small—and imagination makes up
-for a good many deficiencies.
-
-We have seen boys amusing themselves impaling a fly, belly upward, upon
-the point of a pin, the head of which was inserted in a cork standard,
-and giving him a little dumb-bell composed of pieces of cork connected
-by a piece of hog’s bristle. The fly would grasp this in his agony, and
-his convulsive movements would have a very exact resemblance to a
-dumb-bell performance, and be irresistibly ludicrous, however much one
-might sympathise with the victim’s suffering. It almost rivaled the
-professor and his fleas.
-
-Once upon a time this troupe of fleas were exhibited at Berlin before
-the king and queen. The professor was suddenly seen to exhibit signs of
-great consternation. “What is the matter, Herr Professor?” inquired his
-majesty, on seeing that the performance had come to a stand still.
-“Sire, I perceive that one of my very, best performers, the great
-Napoleon, has got loose and disappeared.” “Let search be made at once
-for the great Napoleon,” replied the king, good humoredly. “Ladies and
-gentlemen, let the Herr Professor have your best help in recapturing the
-great Napoleon. In what direction, Herr Professor, do you imagine the
-runaway to have gone?” “If I may venture, sire, to reply frankly,”
-returned that personage, “I suspect the great Napoleon to have secreted
-himself about the person of her serene highness, the Princess F——.” The
-“highness” thus named, feeling anything but “serene” at the thought of
-affording quarters to such an intruder, made a hasty retirement to her
-own apartments, whence, after a brief retirement with her cameriste, she
-smilingly returned to the royal presence, bringing some object held
-delicately between her thumb and finger, which she cautiously made over
-to the professor. “Alas! sire,” exclaimed the latter, after a moment’s
-glance at what he thought was his discovered treasure, “this is a wild
-flea and not the great Napoleon!” And the exhibition was brought to an
-ignominious conclusion.
-
-We once heard of a performance somewhat akin to our professor’s. At a
-certain boarding school that we attended years ago, we noticed our
-room-mate one morning examining the bed in a manner to indicate beyond
-doubt that he was in search of an insect which is not usually a subject
-of conversation in polite society. Fortunately for the credit of the
-school he found none. In answer to our expression of surprise at his
-evident disappointment at there being none, he explained that he wanted
-to show us a splendid trick he had invented at home; and he went on to
-describe how he had often amused himself by gluing one end of a string
-to the back of an unfortunate bug, while to the other end was hitched a
-miniature model of a cart, made of paper. This, he said, was capital
-sport, especially when he made two of these teams race, and pricked the
-steeds with a needle to make them lively. This is the only example of
-bed-bug training we are able to record.
-
-A very useful thing for farmers is the power of handling bees without
-liability to be stung. Many persons imagine this to be some gift or
-mysterious influence possessed by the successful operator, while others
-suppose it to be derived from some wonderful secret possessed by him.
-Though this “secret” is really quite a simple matter, the fact that a
-speculator has been selling it to bee keepers at the modest price of ten
-dollars, shows that it is an interesting subject, and we propose to give
-it to the reader without exacting any fee.
-
-Let us suppose you have a particularly irritable colony in one of the
-modern hives, from which you desire to obtain the honey. The treatment
-must vary a trifle according to the particular design and arrangement of
-the hive, but the following directions, with very slight modifications,
-will answer for all. First confine the bees in the hive, and rap on the
-side of it with the palms of your hands or a small stick. The first
-efforts of the bees will be to escape from the hive; finding this
-impossible they will rush to their stores and fill themselves with
-honey. Should the rapping prove insufficient to frighten them and cause
-them to fill themselves with honey, smoke from rotten wood, which is the
-best, cotton rags, or tobacco, may be made to enter the hive which will
-have the desired effect. Bees will never sting of their own accord when
-gorged with food, and in this condition may be handled with impunity.
-
-When swarming, or out of the hive for any reason, they may be “tamed” by
-placing water well sweetened with sugar within their reach. Bees can
-never resist the temptation and after they have gorged themselves with
-this preparation they are as harmless as when their sacks are filled
-with honey.
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER XIX.
-        “HAPPY FAMILIES”—ENEMIES BY NATURE MADE FRIENDS BY ART.
-
-
-One of the most entertaining and popular features of Barnum’s Museum,
-during the many years of its existence, was that miscellaneous
-collection of minor birds, beasts, and reptiles, denominated the Happy
-Family. Here in a huge cage are mingled many varieties of the animal
-kingdom which are, in a state of nature, deadly enemies to one another.
-Exhibitions of this kind are very rare in this country, though more
-common in Europe. Probably the first one ever seen here was that
-imported by Barnum in 1847, and which was the foundation of the present
-collection; though, like the boy’s jack-knife which first had a new
-blade and then a new handle, and then a new blade again, it would be
-difficult to find any of the original importation in the collection of
-the present day. It seems that Barnum, at about the date we have
-mentioned, was in Scotland “working” Tom Thumb, who was then on a grand
-exhibition tour. In the neighborhood of Edinburgh he accidentally
-stumbled across the Happy Family, which was then, though an excellent
-collection of animals, a rather one-horse affair as an exhibition by
-itself. The shrewd showman, ever on the lookout for novelties or
-curiosities, genuine or otherwise, fancied he saw a good speculation and
-bought the whole concern for $2,500, and brought it in triumph to his
-museum in New York.
-
-[Illustration: THE “HAPPY FAMILY” AT BARNUM’S OLD MUSEUM.]
-
-Curious and wonderful as this peaceable living together of animals of
-such diverse natures appears, there is really very little mystery in it.
-Many persons, noticing the sleepy and listless appearance of most of the
-animals, have quite naturally come to the conclusion that they were
-under the influence of some drug, which stupified them and rendered them
-harmless. We believe that in no case is this the fact, because it is not
-necessary. The main secret is to feed the animals to satiety; never
-allowing them to feel the pangs of hunger, the great incentive for
-preying upon other animals is taken away. Animals, unlike men, will
-never eat unless they are really hungry. We have frequently observed boa
-constrictors at public exhibitions, in whose cages rabbits or pigeons
-had been placed to gratify the public with the sight of the huge snake
-swallowing his food alive. Unless the snake is hungry the miserable
-little victims remain for days cooped up with the hideous monsters
-without the latter taking the slightest notice of them. It is a well
-known fact that cats which are fed plentifully cease to be good mousers,
-however excellent in that respect they have previously been, and will
-permit a house to be overrun with these pests without molesting them.
-Besides the plentiful feeding there is one other thing requisite to make
-the animals live together peaceably. Many animals have an instinctive
-desire to worry or kill others which are smaller or weaker than
-themselves. Between many particular animals a kind of natural antipathy
-exists. So natural does it seem that a dog should torment a cat that “a
-cat and dog life” has become typical of a very uncomfortable state of
-existence. There is on the part of all animals a feeling of suspicion
-and antagonism toward strange animals, even if they are of their own
-species. We are almost every day witnesses of exhibitions on a smaller
-scale almost as wonderful as the Happy Family, were it not that their
-frequency renders them common place. In thousands of households cats and
-dogs live together, not only without quarreling but on really friendly
-terms. Frequently have we seen cats and dogs feeding from the same dish,
-and recollect one instance where a diminutive kitten, in the innocence
-of feline infancy, seized upon one end of a bone which a monstrous watch
-dog was busily gnawing, without being molested by the dog. It is just as
-natural for cats to devour birds as for _any_ beast or bird of prey to
-devour _its_ victims, and yet we have been familiar with more than one
-instance of canary birds being allowed to fly around a room in which was
-the household cat, without the cat showing the least disposition to
-attack them. Had a strange bird came within her reach we doubt not that
-same cat would have indulged in a feast at his expense without
-hesitation. City dogs would make sad havoc among the inhabitants of any
-poultry yard if allowed admission therein, but let any one of those same
-dogs become a resident on a farm, let him understand that chickens and
-turkeys are sacred from his touch and he will soon walk among them as
-unconsciously as though there were no such things in existence. An
-instance is on record of a cat who had been deprived of her kittens,
-capturing a brood of young rats and suckling them with all the
-tenderness of a mother. In this case, however, it would appear that
-affection for the baby rats was not the motive for this strange act, for
-as soon as the cat was eased of the inconvenience of her milk, she
-disposed of her adopted family in a pleasant and effective manner—she
-ate them up.
-
-In preparing animals for Happy Families it is usual to keep them in
-small cages, in the vicinity of each other. Occasionally two animals of
-different dispositions are placed together, the keeper preventing any
-fighting and punishing any symptoms of it. When the keeper thinks they
-may be safely left together he retires to a short distance to wait
-results. On the least sign of a quarrel he is down upon them, poking and
-punching and stirring them up generally. If they show no disposition to
-quarrel they are treated kindly, fed plentifully and permitted to enjoy
-themselves as much as their restricted quarters will permit. When an
-animal has thus learned to keep within the bounds of politeness and good
-breeding he is introduced into the large cage with the grand collection.
-In this large cage the principal disturbing elements are the monkeys,
-who frequently obstinately insist upon _not_ being happy, and slinging
-the mice around by their tails, pulling out the birds’ feathers and
-other little acts of playfulness. The stout wire very soon reduces them
-to quietness, and it very seldom happens that any serious disturbance
-occurs. Doves and vultures roost calmly side by side, mice nestle
-confidingly in the cat’s soft, warm fur, and so natural does it all
-seem, that, for a moment one scarcely realizes of what incongruous
-elements the whole is made up.
-
-The origin of this novel idea of the Happy Family was probably this:
-Francesco Michelo was the only son of a carpenter who resided in Tempio,
-a town in the island of Sardinia. He had two sisters younger than
-himself, and he had only attained his tenth year when a fire reduced his
-father’s house to ruins, and at the same time caused the death of the
-carpenter himself. The family were thus reduced to beggary, and the boy
-in order to provide for the necessities of his mother and sisters took
-up the occupation of catching birds for sale. Constructing a cage of
-considerable dimensions from laths he proceeded to the woods to secure
-the nests of young birds. Being active and industrious he succeeded
-tolerably well, but the prices he obtained were not adequate to the
-maintenance of the family. In this dilemma the boy conceived a new and
-original method for increasing his income; necessity is the mother of
-invention, and he meditated no less a project than to train a young
-Angora cat to live harmlessly in the midst of his favorite songsters.
-Such is the force of habit, such the power of education, that by slow
-degrees he taught the martial enemy of his winged pets to live, to eat,
-to drink, and to sleep in the midst of his little charges without once
-attempting to devour or injure them. The cat, whom he called Bianca,
-suffered the little birds to play all manner of tricks with her; and
-never did she extend her talons or harm them in any way.
-
-He went even farther, and taught the cat and the birds to play a kind of
-game, in which each had to learn its own part. Puss was instructed to
-curl herself into a circle, with her head between her paws, as though
-asleep. The cage was then opened and the birds rushed out upon her and
-endeavored to awaken her with repeated strokes of their beaks; then
-dividing into two parties they attacked her head and her whiskers,
-without the gentle animal appearing to take the least notice of their
-gambols. At other times she would seat herself in the middle of the
-cage, and begin to smooth her fur; the birds would then settle upon her
-back, or sit like a crown upon her head, chirruping and singing as if in
-all the security of a shady wood.
-
-The sight of a sleek and beautiful cat seated calmly in the midst of a
-cage of birds was so new and unexpected that when Francesco produced
-them at the fair of Sussari he was surrounded instantly by a crowd of
-admiring spectators. Their astonishment scarcely knew bounds when they
-heard him call each feathered favorite by its name, and saw it fly
-toward him with alacrity, till all were perched on his head, his arms,
-and his fingers. Delighted with his ingenuity the spectators rewarded
-him liberally, and the boy returned joyfully to his home with sufficient
-money to last the family many months.
-
-Not only do animals sometimes lose many of their natural characteristics
-by association with human beings or with other animals, but they even in
-some cases have been known to acquire the habits of animals of an
-entirely different species from themselves. One of the most remarkable
-instances of this was observed by La Malle. This gentleman had a kitten
-which had attained the age of six months when his live stock was
-increased by the arrival of a terrier pup, Fox, that was only two months
-old. The dog and the cat were brought up together, and for two years Fox
-had no association with other dogs, but received all his education from
-the three daughters of the porter, and from the cat. The two animals
-were continually together and acquired a great affection for one
-another; the cat, however, as the senior taking the lead. Soon Fox began
-to bound like a cat, and to roll a mouse or a ball with his fore paws
-after the feline fashion. He also licked his paw and rubbed it over his
-ear as he saw the cat do; nevertheless, owing to his native instinct, if
-a strange cat came into the garden he chased it away. La Malle brought a
-strange dog into the house, who manifested the utmost contempt and
-indignation for all Fox’s habits. M. Andouin, too, had a dog which
-acquired all the habits of a cat.
-
-It has probably been remarked also, by most readers, that domestic
-animals almost always imbibe something of the disposition of their
-masters or mistresses. Thus, a plodding easygoing man will have a horse
-of much the same characteristics if it has been long in his service,
-whatever may have been the horse’s original disposition. Many similar
-instances will no doubt suggest themselves to the reader. It would seem
-that even mankind is not exempt from this influence, and that when men
-have not the energy or mental force to exert this molding power over the
-minds of their brute companions, the animals will exert it over them. At
-the risk of wandering from our subject it may interest some to have
-attention called to the testimony to this assertion, afforded by all
-uncivilized countries. Dr. Virey, who has given considerable attention
-to this rather queer subject, remarks: “Behold those men who pass their
-lives among animals, as cowherds, shepherds, swineherds, grooms, and
-poachers, they always acquire something of the nature of the animals
-with which they associate. It is thus that man becomes heavy and rude
-with the ox, filthy and a glutton with the pig, simple with the sheep,
-courageous and an adept hunter with the dog. In like manner the Arab is
-sober with his camel, the Tartar rough and blunt as his horses, the
-Laplander timid as his reindeer, the mountaineer active as the goat, the
-Hindoo somber as his elephant, because it is man’s fate to take the
-nature of his animals when he cannot form their nature to his.” Without
-recommending the adoption of this writer’s opinions entirely, for much
-that he has stated is no doubt due to climate and local causes, his
-theory is worthy of consideration by those who have a fancy for this
-kind of speculation.
-
-A correspondent of the Agriculturist relates an amusing instance of a
-sort of “happy family” originated by the animals themselves: “About a
-month since two cats had a ‘family’ within a few days of each other. All
-the kittens were drowned except two of each set, which with their
-respective mammas were snugly settled in a couple of boxes in the same
-room. On the following day both families entire—or rather what remained
-of them—were found coiled up together in the same box. They were not
-disturbed and thenceforward the two mothers ceased to recognize any
-difference between the two pairs of kittens. They would alternately
-nurse the whole lot, or both affectionately entwined together divide
-this ‘labor of love’ just as the kittens, lying snugly between them,
-would happen to turn to the one or the other. But this is not all. Eddie
-brought a couple of young squirrels from the woods, which soon became
-very gentle. In less than two days _both_ were found in the box among
-the cats and kittens, drawing from either or both the maternal fonts,
-upon a like footing of equality and community with that previously
-enjoyed by the kittens. The old cats seemed to acquiesce fully in the
-arrangement, and so it proceeded for a couple of weeks, until one of the
-squirrels was accidentally killed. The other having the freedom of the
-house is now a romping playmate of both cats and kittens, who continue
-uniformly to treat him as ‘one of the family.’”
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER XX.
-                     EDUCATED SEALS—TAME FISH, ETC.
-
-
-At the Zoological Gardens in London, and at several places on the
-continent, seals have been exhibited which had been taught to perform a
-number of tricks. The first “learned seal” which appeared in this
-country was one exhibited first at Barnum’s old Museum, on the corner of
-Broadway and Ann street, and afterward in various parts of the country.
-Ned, as he was called, was quite a philosopher in his way, and submitted
-gracefully to the change from his secluded haunts on the icy shores of
-Greenland, to the excitements of a public life.
-
-Seals are naturally docile and intelligent, but skill in grinding a hand
-organ is scarcely a gift which comes by nature, and even in the case of
-Ned it was necessary to stimulate his musical taste before he became an
-adept on that instrument. This stimulus was the same as that to which we
-owe the curb-stone performances of modern Romans—hunger.
-
-He had before this learned of his own accord to come up out of the water
-on the appearance of his keeper. He was kept in a large tank, or box,
-one half of which held the water, while the other half was floored over
-forming a platform on which he was exhibited. From this platform an
-inclined plane, formed of planks, led down into the water. Around the
-edge of the tank and platform a wooden railing extended, and in one
-corner of this enclosure was kept a tin box containing the fish with
-which the seal was fed. When the seal was first exhibited his keeper was
-in the habit of taking a fish from this box at each half-hourly
-exhibition, and tossing it to the seal who would come partly out of the
-water and open his mouth to catch it when he saw it in the keeper’s
-hand. This box had a lid to prevent Ned helping himself, and the seal
-soon learned that the noise of opening the box was followed by his
-getting a fish; so before long it was only necessary to tap on the lid
-to make him come up on the platform.
-
-There was one trick which Ned invented himself, and used to perform to
-his own great satisfaction. He always liked to be able to see his
-keeper, but visitors often crowded around the tank so much as to
-obstruct his view. When this happened, Ned had a way of beating
-vigorously about in the water and splashing the offending spectators so
-that they were glad to withdraw to a more respectful distance. This
-afforded considerable fun to the attachés of the museum, who had
-discovered Ned’s little game, while, we believe, visitors never
-suspected that their ducking was anything more than mere accident.
-
-The first feat he was taught was to sit up on his hind quarters. This
-was easily accomplished by holding a fish in the air as an encouragement
-for the seal to keep an erect position. More difficulty was experienced
-in teaching him to play the organ. Day after day his paw was placed on
-the handle, while the trainer industriously turned the crank and held
-Ned’s paw in position at the same time. Ever and anon the man would
-remove his hand to see if the seal continued the motion, but down would
-flop Ned’s paw and he would gaze vacantly at the instrument without the
-least apparent consciousness of what was to be done. But by-and-by there
-was a little hesitation in the paw and it did not drop quite so promptly
-on the trainer’s hand being removed. Then Ned got a little fish. The
-next time the paw lingered quite perceptibly on the handle, and there
-was just the faintest movement toward turning the crank. Then Ned got a
-bigger fish, which he undoubtedly relished exceedingly, for all this
-time he had been on short allowance. So it went on, the seal grinding a
-few notes, increasing their number each time and being rewarded with
-fish, until he had learned to roll out the full supply of tunes the
-instrument afforded, though his “time” would have puzzled a musician,
-his efforts being to grind at the greatest possible speed, and we feel
-safe in asserting that his “Old Hundred” was the fastest thing on
-record. After every exhibition he was rewarded with fish.
-
-[Illustration: NED, THE “LEARNED SEAL.”]
-
-Quite a number of instances are recorded where seals have been tamed
-without any design of public exhibition. A writer in the London Field
-gives some curious details of his own experiment. He says:
-
-“When a boy, I was presented by some fishermen with one apparently not
-more than a fortnight old, which in a few weeks became perfectly tame
-and domesticated, would follow me about, eat from my hand, and showed
-unmistakable signs of recognition and attachment whenever I approached.
-It was fond of heat, and would lie for hours at the kitchen fire,
-raising its head to look at every new comer, but never attempting to
-bite, and would nestle close to the dogs, who soon became quite
-reconciled to their new friend. Unfortunately the winter after I
-obtained it was unusually rough and stormy. Upon that wild coast boats
-could seldom put to sea, and the supply of fish became scanty and
-precarious. We were obliged to substitute milk in its place, of which
-the seal consumed large quantities, and as the scarcity of other food
-still continued, it was determined, in a family council, that it should
-be consigned to its own element, to shift for itself. Accompanied by a
-clergyman, who took a great interest in my pet, I rowed out for a couple
-of miles to sea, and dropped it quietly overboard. Very much to our
-astonishment, however, we found that it was not so easy to shake it off.
-Fast as we pulled away it swam still faster after the boat, crying all
-the time so loudly that it might easily have been heard a mile away, and
-so pitifully that we were obliged to take it in again and bring it
-home.”
-
-A somewhat similar story is told in Maxwell’s Wild Sports of the West,
-where may be found a very interesting and touching narrative of a tamed
-seal, which lived for several years with a family, and which, although
-it was repeatedly taken out to sea in a boat and thrown overboard,
-always found its way back again to the house which it loved, even
-contriving to creep through an open window and to gain access to the
-warm fireside.
-
-In the Jardin des Plantes, in Paris, there was, for some time, a
-specimen of the marbled seal. Two little dogs, in the same enclosure,
-amused themselves by mounting on its back, barking, and even biting
-it—all of which the seal took in good part. Sometimes it would pat them
-with its paw; but this seemed intended more to encourage than to repress
-their gambols. In cold weather, they warmed one another by huddling
-together. If the dogs snatched a fish from the seal’s mouth, it bore the
-loss patiently; but it generally had a fight with another seal, the
-sharer of its mess, until the weaker one sounded a retreat.
-
-Some few years ago a “talking fish” was profitably exhibited in London
-and the principal provincial towns, at a shilling a head. The fish was a
-species of seal, and the “talking” consisted of a free translation of
-its natural cry into the words ma-ma, or pa-pa, according to the fancy
-of the showman or spectator.
-
-Gold and silver fish are frequently kept as ornaments in glass globes or
-aquaria; those vessels which present the largest surface to the air
-being preferable. Fish kept in the flask shaped, or narrow mouth globes,
-so often used by thoughtless persons, can never be kept healthy, and
-their spasmodic efforts to get breath are a sufficient indication of
-their sufferings.
-
-These fishes may be easily tamed. Gentleness is the all-essential
-requisite. They can be taught to eat from their owner’s hand by first
-dropping morsels of food in the water while your finger is placed on the
-outside as near it as possible. For a little while they will be afraid
-to approach the food, restrained by the sight of the finger, but
-by-and-by they will approach and seize it. After they have ceased to
-fear your fingers on the outside, attach a bit of the food to your
-finger and cautiously insert it in the water; if hungry they will
-presently muster courage to come and take it, and in due time will take
-their food in that manner as a matter of course. If fed at stated hours
-they will learn to distinguish the approach of the customary feeding
-time and will signify the fact by floating up to the surface shaking
-their fins, and sticking their heads out of the water. In this same
-manner they recognize their master or mistress and express their
-pleasure at his or her approach.
-
-A lady writer thus describes some fish kept in her family as pets: “They
-knew a wonderful deal more did these little fishes. They would come to
-the top of the water to be fed and take their food from my fingers. When
-they wanted fresh water they could call for it by making an odd,
-clicking noise. They would remain perfectly still while being talked to,
-and wink with evident satisfaction at the compliments lavished upon
-them. When, after a prolonged absence, their lawful owners returned to
-them, these little fishes would wriggle about and indulge in wonderful
-demonstrations of joy and welcome. Oh, the learned seal was nothing in
-comparison to them.”
-
-It is not alone gold and silver fish that admit of being tamed. A
-correspondent writing from Franklin, Indiana, says of the fishes in a
-pond on his grounds that they will approach on hearing his whistle, eat
-from his hands, and allow him to take them from the water. A little girl
-in one of the New England states rendered some trout, which inhabited a
-brook near her father’s house, so exceedingly tame, that, when feeding
-them, she was obliged to check the impetuosity of the more voracious
-ones by a little stick armed at the point with a needle.
-
-Mr. C. L. Vallandigham, of Ohio, is our authority for the following
-story: “While upon the Island of Bermuda, in traveling from one portion
-of the island to the other, I passed by a stone enclosure, perhaps a
-hundred feet in diameter. The islands are coral in their formation.
-There was a pool of water full of fish inside the enclosure. I paid an
-English shilling for admission inside, where I saw perhaps a hundred
-fish, thoroughly tamed, each one having a name, and each one answering
-to the name by which he was called. One of them, I recollect, was called
-Dick. I spoke to him as I would to a dog, and he came and lifted up his
-head and allowed me to rub his back, just as you would a cat. Now, as I
-told you, if any body else had told me that I wouldn’t have believed it.
-But it is nevertheless true. There is just such a pool there, and they
-are so intelligent that they recognize their names.”
-
-[Illustration: THE HIPPOCAMPUS.]
-
-Possibly some of our readers remember the queer little fishes Barnum
-exhibited some years ago, and which he called “seahorses” on account of
-the great resemblance of the heads to those of miniature horses. These
-were labeled as coming from the Gulf of Mexico, though in reality caught
-in New York Bay. They were what are known to naturalists as the
-short-nosed hippocampus, and being peculiar we give an illustration
-which will convey a better idea of their appearance than any mere
-description. They are commonly about five inches in length, and are to
-be found on many parts of our coast. When swimming about they maintain a
-vertical position, but the tail is ready to grasp whatever it meets in
-the water, and this is the means by which the creature appears to obtain
-rest. The tail will quickly entwine in any direction around weeds, or
-other supports; and when fixed the animal watches the surrounding
-objects intently and darts at his prey with great dexterity. They raise
-themselves to higher positions on their supports by the aid of the
-hinder part of their cheeks, or chins, when the tail entwines itself
-afresh. We do not think those at the museum performed in public but
-their keeper to while away leisure time made them very tame and taught
-them several little tricks, among others to perch in a row on his
-finger. The four little fellows, each only about four inches in length,
-presented a most comical appearance. The system of training in this case
-was very similar to that which we have described as having been
-practiced in the case of the “learned seal.”
-
-We cannot say that we ever had any personal experience with oysters in
-the capacity of pupils, but in at least one case has a bivalve been made
-subject to the tamer’s art. In an English paper of 1840 we find a
-curious account of a gentleman at Christ Church, Salisbury, England, who
-kept a pet oyster of the largest and finest breed then known. It was fed
-on oat meal, for which it regularly opened its shell, and was
-occasionally treated to a dip in its native element; but the most
-extraordinary trait in the history of this amphibious was that it proved
-itself an excellent mouser, having killed at least five mice, by
-crushing the heads of such as, tempted by the luscious meal, had the
-temerity to intrude their noses within its bivalvular clutches. On one
-occasion two of these little intruders suffered together.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER XXI.
-                        THE ART OF TAMING BIRDS.
-
-
-Although birds are naturally of a timid disposition, very easily
-alarmed, and from their delicate structure unable to endure any but the
-most gentle handling, they may be made very tame and become quite
-attached to their trainer. We propose to tell our readers how to tame
-their birds, but to make these instructions successful they must be
-carried out with the greatest gentleness and patience. The utmost pains
-should be observed not to frighten the bird, as a single fright may
-render him so shy as to defeat all your efforts to gain his confidence.
-The following plan is the simplest and most uniformly successful that we
-have seen tried: The trainer opens the door of the cage and teases the
-bird gently with a soft feather. This he does till the bird pecks at the
-feather, then at his finger, and at last comes out of the cage and
-perches upon his hand. He then smooths his feathers down, caresses it,
-and offers it some favorite article of food, which it soon learns to
-take from his hand. He then begins to accustom the bird to a particular
-call or whistle; carries it upon his hand or shoulder from room to room,
-in which all the windows are carefully closed, lets it fly and calls it
-back. As soon as the bird becomes obedient to the call in the presence
-of other persons and animals, the same experiment is cautiously repeated
-in the open air, till at last it is rewarded with complete success. This
-process is well suited for nearly all young cage birds, especially
-linnets, bullfinches, and canaries, but it is dangerous to take these
-tame birds into the open air during pairing time, as they are liable to
-be enticed by the cries of wild birds.
-
-Birds that are caught in winter often take to the cage more kindly than
-would be expected, but after their capture some days should be allowed
-them to become accustomed to their new situation, before expecting them
-to respond to your kindness. Newly caught birds should be put into a
-quiet place, shaded with a green woolen cover, so that the innate may
-not see persons moving about the room, and it should be supplied with
-abundance of whatever is supposed to be its favorite food. Hemp seed
-generally fulfills this requirement. It is an immense advantage to have
-a large cage made like the “trap” or store cages in which canaries are
-generally sold. The wooden bars are less liable to hurt new comers than
-those made of wire.
-
-Whatever the cage, the food and the shading are essential points; and
-the bird will often become familiar with his mistress’ voice before the
-cover is removed, and he able to see her. After the first day or two do
-not leave the seed tin always in the cage, but take it away after each
-meal for a little while, taking the opportunity of having a talk with
-the bird when you give it back, and gradually bring the cage a little
-nearer to you as it gets more tame. The water, of course, is always in
-the cage, and this must not be understood to imply a starving system,
-the only object in taking away the seed is to obtain the chance to talk
-with him and make friends when you bring it back. A single bird in a
-cage tames more quickly than when there are two or three.
-
-A New York paper, speaking about the importation of canary birds from
-Germany, says the following sight was seen in Florence, Italy, in 1861,
-by a lady and gentleman belonging in New York. In walking in the
-principal street they overtook a man with a long whip in his hand, which
-he was moving from one side to the other in what they thought a strange
-manner. When they came up with him they found he was driving a flock of
-canary birds, as in England they drive a flock of turkeys. A carriage
-came along, and the man waved his whip in a peculiar manner, when the
-little birds all went to the sidewalk until the carriage passed, when
-they took the street again. A woman wanted to buy one, when the man
-sprinkled some canary seed at his feet and half a dozen of them came to
-him, when he took one up in his hand and delivered it to the woman, who
-paid him one franc. The man then went on again.
-
-Elihu Burritt, the learned blacksmith, gives an account of Mr. Fox, of
-Tregedna, near Falmouth, England, who, by persevering kindness, has won
-the affection of a large number of birds—so much so that they fly to
-meet him when he calls them, and hop about him, eating the crumbs with
-which his pockets are well filled. When digging in his garden if is no
-common sight to see little birds hopping on the handle of the spade or
-rake used by the gentleman, thus showing their confidence in him.
-Sometimes they enter his bedroom early in the morning, through the
-window, and in their way call out, “It is time to get up.” On Sunday,
-when Mr. Fox goes to his place of worship, some of the birds are
-frequently seen to accompany him along the road chirping and singing all
-the way.
-
-The following is a new and approved method where it is desired to tame
-birds in a very short time, and is applicable to all kinds of cage
-birds, proving efficacious in one or two hours: A portion—larger or
-smaller in proportion to the wildness of the bird—is cut off from the
-inner plume of the pen feathers, so that the bird cannot hurt itself if
-it attempts to leave the hand, and the external appearance of the wing
-is not impaired. The nostrils of the bird are then touched with bergamot
-or any other odorous oil, by which it is for the time so stupified as to
-perch quietly on the finger or to hop from one finger to another. It may
-attempt to fly away once or twice, but this is not often repeated,
-especially if the experiment be conducted in a dark place—for example,
-behind a curtain, which offers the further advantage that if the bird
-fall it is not likely to hurt itself. As soon as it sits quietly on any
-one finger another must be placed in such a position as to cause the
-bird to step upon it. As soon as it is accustomed to hop quietly from
-one finger to another the main difficulty is overcome, for if when the
-bird is gradually aroused from its state of stupefaction it perceives
-that its teacher does not use it roughly, it may by degrees be taught to
-manifest perfect obedience to his commands. To teach it to eat from its
-master’s mouth it should be kept in the cage without food for some time.
-If it be then taken upon the finger and its favorite food be presented
-to it on the outstretched tongue hunger will soon teach it to feed. A
-story is told of a favorite magpie that had been accustomed to receive
-dainty bits from the mouth of its mistress. One day it perched as usual
-on her shoulder and inserted its beak between her lips, not, as it
-proved, to receive, for as one good turn deserves another, the grateful
-bird dropped an immense fat green caterpillar into the lady’s mouth.
-
-Birds tamed by the preceding process may be taught to sing while perched
-upon the hand. To effect this it is only necessary to coax them by
-chirping to them and using encouraging tones. The chaffinch may be made
-to sing by whistling “yach! yach!” and stroking it on the neck; and the
-bullfinch by speaking to it in a friendly manner, accompanied by a
-backward and forward motion of the hand.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-
-
-                             CHAPTER XXII.
-                SONG BIRDS—THEIR MANAGEMENT AND TUITION.
-
-
-What is called the song of birds is always expressive either of love or
-happiness; thus the nightingale sings only during the pairing season,
-and the period of incubation, and becomes silent as soon as required to
-feed its young; while on the contrary the canary and others sing except
-when dejected by molting. The males are usually the best singers, in
-fact the females of several varieties have hardly what could be called a
-song. Female canaries, bullfinches, robins, and some others may be made
-to sing to a considerable extent by keeping them in cages by themselves
-and paying attention to their food and management. All birds should be
-kept clean, their cages washed out often enough to prevent the
-accumulation of filth, a supply of sea or river sand furnished, and also
-fresh water for bathing and drinking. The food of each species varies,
-but the following will be found adapted to nearly all cage birds:
-
-“UNIVERSAL PASTES.”—_Number One._—Thoroughly soak in cold water a well
-baked stale loaf of wheaten bread; press the water out and pour milk
-over the bread, sufficient to moisten thoroughly; then mix with it
-two-thirds of its own weight of barley or wheat meal, ground fine and
-sifted.
-
-_Number Two._—Grate a carrot and mix it with a moderate sized slice of
-bread which has been thoroughly soaked in water and the water carefully
-pressed out. While mixing add two handfuls of the above mentioned barley
-or wheat meal. The whole is then to be pounded in a mortar.
-
-The above quantities are sufficient for quite a number of birds and must
-be reduced to suit requirements, as no more than one day’s supply should
-be prepared at one time. Careful washing of all utensils employed is of
-course essential to prevent sourness. Canaries should be furnished with
-a mixture of canary, summer rape, and crushed hemp seed. Goldfinches
-like poppy seed, with the addition occasionally of a little crushed hemp
-seed. They also eat thistle seed. Linnets and bullfinches rape seed
-alone. A little green food, as chick-weed, lettuce, cabbage or
-water-cress, is desirable about once a week. Quails are fond of bread
-crumbs and wheat. Larks prefer barley meal mixed with finely cut
-cabbage, or poppy seed and crumbs of bread, and oats in winter.
-
-Varying the food of song birds has a tendency to make them sing. The
-very common practice of giving pet birds cake, sweetmeats, or sugar, is
-unadvisable; they prefer more simple food, and their health and musical
-qualities are impaired by this kindly meant but really unkind practice.
-A bit of cuttle fish bone is the best dainty. Too much hemp seed is
-injurious to all birds in confinement, often producing blindness, less
-of voice, and pulmonary disease.
-
-The songs of cage birds are of two kinds, the natural and the
-artificial. The natural song is peculiar in each species. The artificial
-is that which the bird acquires by association with other birds, or
-which is purposely taught it. A bird is said to “warble” or “quaver”
-when it always repeats the passages or single notes of its song in
-precisely the same order. It “sings” when it utters the chirping or
-twittering interspersed with distinct notes without observing any
-regular succession. It “whistles” or “pipes” when its song consists of
-distinct round flute-like notes. Birds to sing well must enjoy good
-health, be well fed and be placed in a bright, cheerful, situation. The
-glaring rays of a hot sun can, however, be endured by but few birds.
-Birds are naturally endowed with a spirit of rivalry, and if placed
-where they can hear the song of other birds, will often sing better than
-they otherwise would. Varying their food slightly will often encourage
-them to sing. A German writer gives the following rules for canaries by
-which a good singer may be secured: “The first and chief thing is that
-while young the bird should hear none but a good song, and so not be
-tempted to intermix the notes of other birds with his own. Care must be
-taken to attain this object, not only at first, but at the first and
-second molting seasons, as the bird is then obliged to re-learn his
-song, and might introduce into it some foreign admixture. It should also
-be noted whether the bird prefers to sing alone or in company. Many
-birds are so self-willed as never to sing except they can display their
-vocal powers alone, while the song of others is always soft and low
-except when excited to rivalry by hearing the performance of a neighbor.
-Another very important particular to be attended to not only in the case
-of canaries but of all cage birds, is to give them their allotted
-portion of food every day, for if too much be given them at once they
-pick out the best at first and leave the rest for another day, which
-impairs their vocal powers.”
-
-The canary is a very imitative bird, indeed its song is mainly
-artificial, being derived from the birds with which it has associated,
-many of the original stock of the Canary Isles not singing at all. This
-fact renders its tuition comparatively easy. If several notes are
-repeated in succession on any instrument, and this is continued
-perseveringly, the bird will gradually try to copy them, and will
-finally succeed if both teacher and pupil possess the requisite talent.
-Canaries are capable of learning two or more distinct tunes. The tunes
-must be taught bit by bit and each piece thoroughly mastered before
-advancing farther. A flute is the best musical instrument to use. If
-desired that the bird should learn the song of another bird, a good
-singer of that variety may be placed near its cage. The weavers of
-Cheshire, England, are noted for possessing canaries of rare musical
-ability, who are the descendants of birds originally taught by a
-nightingale; the young birds of each successive generation learning the
-song of their parents. Loss of voice, which in the male is sometimes the
-consequence of molting, may be cured by feeding with a little lettuce
-seed.
-
-Some years ago, for several days a pure canary attracted considerable
-attention while hanging in the publication office of the New York
-Tribune, on account of his singing Hail Columbia, and other patriotic
-airs, without mistake or loss of a single note.
-
-If it is desired to teach a canary to whistle, it should be removed from
-its companion when about two weeks old, at which time it will be able to
-feed and also to begin to twitter. The pupil is put in a small cage,
-which should be at first covered with a linen cloth, and afterward with
-something thicker. A short air should then be either whistled or played
-on a flute or bird organ within its hearing, five or six times a day,
-especially in the morning and evening, and repeated on each occasion
-half a dozen times. In from two to six months, according to the memory
-and docility of the bird, it will have acquired its lesson perfectly.
-Unless this training is commenced when the bird is very young it is
-likely to mar its performance by intermixing parts it has learned from
-the parent bird.
-
-Though the natural song of the bullfinch, including both sexes, is harsh
-and disagreeable, very much like the creaking of a door or wheelbarrow,
-they may be taught to whistle many airs and songs in a soft, pure,
-flute-like tone, and are capable of remembering two or three different
-tunes. They are best instructed by means of a flute or by the whistling
-of the teacher. Slow learners do not, during the molting season, lose so
-quickly what they have acquired as those who learn more readily. The
-bullfinch will also learn the songs of other birds, but usually this is
-not considered desirable.
-
-In Germany great attention is paid to the training of these birds, which
-is made a regular profession. We are indebted to Dr. Stanley for the
-following description of the mode pursued:
-
-“No school can be more diligently attended by its master, and no
-scholars more effectually trained to their own calling, than a seminary
-of bullfinches. As a general rule they are formed into classes of about
-six in each, and kept in a dark room, where food and music are
-administered at the same time, so that when the meal is ended if the
-birds feel inclined to tune up, they are naturally inclined to copy the
-rounds which are so familiar to them. As soon as they begin to imitate a
-few notes the light is admitted into the room, which still farther
-exhilarates their spirits, and inclines them to sing. In some
-establishments the starving system is adopted and the birds are not
-allowed food or light until they sing. When they have been under this
-course of instruction in classes for some time, they are committed
-singly to the care of boys whose sole business is to go on with their
-education. Each boy assiduously plays his organ[5] from morning till
-night for the instruction of the bird committed to his care, while the
-class teacher goes his regular rounds, superintending the progress of
-his feathered pupils, and scolding or rewarding them in a manner which
-they perfectly understand, and strictly in accordance with the attention
-or the disregard they have shown to the instructions of the monitor.
-This round of teaching goes on unintermittingly for no less a period
-than nine months, by which time the bird has acquired firmness, and is
-less likely to forget or spoil the air by leaving out passages, or
-giving them in the wrong place. At the time of molting the best
-instructed birds are liable to lose the recollection of their tunes, and
-therefore require to have them frequently repeated at that time,
-otherwise all the previous labor will have been thrown away.”
-
-Footnote 5:
-
-  A small barrel organ, called a bird organ, made for this purpose.
-
-The goldfinch is a handsome, lively bird, uttering his sonorous song at
-all periods except when molting. It consists, in addition to several
-intricate and twittering notes, of certain tones which resemble those of
-the harp, and it is valued in proportion to the number of times the
-syllable “fink” recurs. The goldfinch may also be taught to whistle
-certain airs and to repeat the song of other birds, though in this
-respect it is not so docile as the canary.
-
-Ducks are not commonly numbered among song birds, but a French paper, La
-France Chorale, gravely relates that an old trumpeter living in the
-department of the Meuse, knowing that it was possible to teach speech
-and music to parrots, starlings, blackbirds, magpies, and others of the
-feathered tribe, operated lately on a duck in his court. He obtained his
-pupil when a duckling, adopting it, and set about its education. In a
-secluded corner he would sing to it an air a hundred times over, till
-the intelligent biped had grasped the melody. Soon the interesting
-creature commenced to quack little tunes, and at the end of six months
-could correctly repeat a considerable portion of the “Femme a Barbe.”
-The owner of the feathered songster is going to Paris to exhibit his
-bird.
-
-Mocking birds are valued highly for their power of acquiring the notes
-of almost every other bird, imitating various sounds and even learning
-to talk. They should be taken when very young; birds old enough to be
-caught in traps either never sing at all, or only in an inferior manner.
-Their tuition consists merely in giving them the opportunity to hear
-whatever it is desired to have them learned. They usually begin to sing
-when two months old, and some bird fanciers think they improve in
-strength and fullness of tone when kept some years. It is less difficult
-to keep mocking birds than is generally supposed. A correspondent of
-Haney’s Journal gives the following as the best method of capturing and
-rearing these birds:
-
-“Take the trouble about the first of May to take a tramp through the
-woods and along the hedges until you find a nest, and be sure it is the
-right kind. Do not touch the nest, but visit it every few days, and when
-the young are hatched and can open their eyes and mouths, take the nest
-and birds home with you and set them in a cage. You then prepare some
-corn meal very soft, by scalding, and feed them every half hour by
-putting it in their mouths; when hungry they will open their mouths and
-cry if you approach them, then is the time to feed them; when they
-become strong enough to hop about the cage you may then put water and
-the meal in the cage and they will soon learn to feed themselves. The
-cage should be cleaned out at least every other morning, and fresh dry
-clean sand put on the floor. The regular feed of the birds should be
-corn meal and hard boiled eggs mashed together with a little water;
-scalded fresh beef is very fine for them, also a few polk berries
-occasionally, all kinds of fruits, bread that is not ‘short,’ meat not
-salt; never give them anything sweet. I nearly lost a fine bird by
-allowing it to get some sour molasses. The best medicine for the mocking
-bird is two or three spiders. Be sure to put a pan of fresh water in the
-cage every day, and as he is a great washer and invariably sings better
-if you give him plenty of water and spiders. The bird should never be
-let out of the cage, and he then does not know what liberty is. I now
-have one five years old, who will not come out of the cage if the door
-be left open all day; he can not be bought for $100. He has been reared
-according to the above method, and, besides this, I guarantee it to be
-the easiest and unsurpassed. So soon as they are old enough those which
-do not sing should be turned out that they may gain their living before
-the winter comes on. Never keep two in one cage after they commence to
-sing; they will fight until one dies. Summary: plenty of water, clean
-cage, no sweet or salt food, fresh meats, flies, grasshoppers and house
-spiders as medicine; polk berries as a cathartic; don’t expect them to
-sing during molting period.”
-
-
-
-
-                             CHAPTER XXIII.
-                   TALKING BIRDS AND THEIR TRAINING.
-
-
-Many of the larger beaked birds may be taught to speak words or even
-sentences, or will learn them of their own accord from overhearing them.
-This power is principally possessed by the even tailed parrots, in which
-the tongue is large, broad, and fleshy at the tip. Their articulation
-does not possess that accuracy and exactness of modulation
-characteristic of the human voice, but to a certain extent this is
-mimicked. Usually there is a harshness and crudeness in their speech,
-though in this respect they greatly vary.
-
-All birds possessing the _power_ of learning to talk are gifted with a
-great imitative faculty, and therein lies the secret of their tuition.
-Parrots will often pick up words, or odds and ends of sentences, but
-usually it is desired that they shall learn some particular phrases, to
-suit the fancy of their owner. In this case a little drilling is
-required. The trainer should take the bird alone where there will be
-nothing to distract his attention; caress and pet him a little, then
-repeat the word in a distinct tone, and repeat at intervals of a few
-moments. Soon the parrot will attempt to repeat the word; caress him and
-reward him with a bit of cracker. Repeat this until he has learned the
-word thoroughly; when he has done so an alteration may be made in the
-method of training. On all occasions when he desires anything, make him
-repeat his lesson before his wishes are gratified. Gradually his lesson
-may be increased in length, new words or phrases being added. A lady
-relative of the writer possessed, some years ago, a parrot which was
-always anxious to be allowed to come from the hall, where he was usually
-kept, into the sitting room. Before he was permitted to enter he was
-always made to repeat a long string of nonsense, something like the
-following: “Pretty little, darling, sweet, beautiful, adorable Polly
-wants to come in.” This task he was rather inclined to shirk, and would
-commence with: “Pretty Polly wants to come in,” in hopes that would
-suffice. The door remaining closed, however, he would in a minute or two
-commence with: “Pretty little Polly wants to come in,” and so on, each
-time going away back to the commencement, and each time adding one of
-the previously omitted words until the whole were given and the door
-opened to admit him.
-
-Usually there is no sense in a parrot’s expression; he “Polly wants a
-cracker” on all occasions, however inappropriate. He _may_ be taught to
-use his language in a manner which is almost startling to one
-uninitiated into the secret of the matter, so apparently is it the
-action of reasoning powers. We have shown above how the bird can be
-taught to repeat any required set of words (within reasonable limits) to
-accomplish a desired result. The bird knows nothing about any meaning to
-these words, he only knows that by making certain sounds he receives a
-reward. Ordinarily a parrot will persistently assert that “Polly wants a
-cracker” when Polly doesn’t want anything of the kind, but _does_ want a
-drink of water. The owner does not take the parrot’s statement as the
-expression of the actual want expressed, but merely that the bird wants
-_something_. The parrot consequently uses any phrase he has learned to
-express any desire. He is capable of associating certain phrases with
-certain results, without knowing anything of the _meaning_ of the
-phrase. Thus, if he be taught the phrases: “Polly wants a cracker,” and
-“Polly wants a drink,” he will be just as apt to express either one by
-either phrase as he will to do so correctly; but if he receives cracker
-_only_ when he asks for it, and a drink only when he asks for _that_, he
-will learn to associate the different sounds with the different results.
-This may be extended beyond this simple illustration as much as
-individual ability is capable of.
-
-A story is told of a dweller in some eastern country who trained a
-parrot for sale. The bird’s education comprised only one phrase: “There
-can be no doubt of that!” To market the parrot was taken, and exposed
-for sale. Attracted by his beautiful plumage a certain rich man inquired
-the price. “One hundred sequins,” replied the owner. “Is he really worth
-all that?” inquired the customer; whereupon the bird exclaims, “There
-can be no doubt of that.” Charmed by the appropriateness of the reply
-the man buys the bird and takes him home in triumph, which triumph is
-changed to a disgust when the limited powers of his prize are
-discovered. Enraged at having paid so extravagant a price for so poor a
-talker the man one day exclaimed in the presence of the bird: “What a
-fool I was to buy such a stupid thing!” Again the parrot’s single
-sentence comes in quite appropriate as he repeats, “There can be no
-doubt of that!”
-
-A bird show was held at a museum in New York several years since, to
-which a parrot was sent that had been taught to repeat the Lord’s
-Prayer. This was advertised extensively, and hundreds of persons went to
-hear the wonder, but to their disappointment and the vexation of the
-owner, Poll would not utter a word during the exhibition, although fully
-able to do what had been expected. After the show, the parrot was taken
-home, and upon reaching its place it exclaimed—probably an accustomed
-phrase—“I suppose I can talk now,” and became as voluble as ever.
-
-The bird’s silence was not remarkable, as song birds will seldom sing
-freely for some time after being taken to a new place; the speech on
-going home certainly seemed to indicate intelligence. A gentleman had
-taught his parrot to say, “Get your gun, John,” which was well
-remembered one night by the bird, for burglars entered the house, and
-Poll, hearing a noise, screamed out at the top of her voice, “Get your
-gun, John,” awakening her owner, and at the same time putting the
-robbers to flight.
-
-An Englishman describing another wonderful parrot hanging in a cage from
-the window of a house which he often passed, said: “It cries ‘Stop
-thief’ so naturally that every time I hear it I always stop.”
-
-It is very essential that the trainer should be on good terms with the
-parrot, in order to secure success, as they will not readily learn for
-one for whom they entertain any dislike. Under favorable circumstances
-not only do they copy the words of their trainer but even his
-peculiarities of voice. Buffon mentions a gray parrot which was taught
-to speak by a sailor during a voyage from Guinea, and acquired so
-exactly his harsh voice and cough as to be frequently mistaken for him.
-It was afterward instructed by a young man, and although it then heard
-no voice but that of its new teacher, the former lessons were never
-forgotten, and it often amused the bystanders by suddenly passing from a
-soft and agreeable voice to its old hoarse sea tone.
-
-Not only do parrots learn to imitate the human voice but also that of
-animals. This is more difficult to teach owing to the difficulty of
-securing the sounds for the bird to copy. A bird of good powers will
-usually pick up this knowledge if it has an opportunity of frequently
-hearing the animals. The blue and yellow macaw, though it does not
-readily learn words (except “Jacob,”) seems to have a talent for
-imitating the bleating of sheep, the mewing of cats, and the barking of
-dogs, with great exactness.
-
-It not only has the power of learning but often shows a desire to do so.
-It continually repeats the syllables which it has heard, and in order
-not to be misled in memory, endeavors to cry down all sounds which
-disturb it. So deep an impression do its lessons make that sometimes it
-dreams aloud. When young its memory is so good as to retain whole verses
-and sentences. Rhodiginus mentions a gray parrot which could repeat the
-Apostles’ Creed without a slip, and was on that account bought by a
-cardinal for a hundred crowns.
-
-In Scotland a species of parrot is employed to call the names of the
-stations on the railway. Each bird is taught the name of the station at
-which it is placed, and this name it shouts on the approach of the
-train.
-
-Several birds besides parrots possess the power of talking. Magpies are
-taught in Germany to imitate not only the human voice but many striking
-sounds. They are taken from the nest when quite young, otherwise this
-cannot be accomplished. A clergyman in Paris is said to have had two
-sparrows which were able to repeat the fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh
-commandments. It produced a highly comic effect when, in their quarrels
-over their food, one of them would gravely admonish the other—“Thou
-shalt not steal.”
-
-Ravens often talk with considerable fluency. In Thugaingia the traveler
-on entering an inn is frequently saluted with the appellations, “thief,
-rascal,” uttered by one of these birds. Some trainers with a view to
-facilitate the utterance of articulate sounds, are accustomed to cut
-what is called the string of the tongue, an operation which certainly
-attains its end in some measure, though ravens often speak on which it
-has not been performed.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-
-
-                             CHAPTER XXIV.
-           PERFORMING BIRDS—THEIR TRICKS AND THEIR TRAINING.
-
-
-Birds may be taught a number of amusing feats, although some we shall
-explain require so much time, labor, and skill, as to render them rather
-more difficult than most amateurs will care to undertake, but there are
-many which any suitable bird may be taught, with reasonable pains. A
-person with a faculty for invention can arrange various little
-mechanical contrivances in the cages of his birds, more or less
-elaborate according to the skill and fancy of the inventor. A very neat
-arrangement consists of an inclined plane outside the cage upon which a
-little wagon may run, or a little tray slide, containing bird seed. To
-this vessel is attached one end of a string, the other end leading up
-the plane and being secured inside the cage. This is so arranged that
-when the string is pulled the vessel is drawn up to an opening in the
-cage sufficiently large for the bird to secure the seed, but not large
-enough to permit his escape. To teach the bird to draw this vessel up he
-must be kept without food until he becomes quite hungry. When hungry he
-will peck at anything in his cage.
-
-The string should be so arranged that he can seize it without trouble,
-and the apparatus should work smoothly and require little strength. The
-seed vessel should be in sight of the bird so that he may be tempted by
-the seed. At first he will peck at the string as he would at anything
-else, and will naturally pull it without any idea of the result. When he
-sees this result almost every bird will persevere until he brings his
-“commissary department” within his reach, and instinct will teach him to
-retain it in place and prevent its sliding back by placing his foot on
-the string while he eats.
-
-Houdin, the French conjuror, when a youth, was employed as errand boy in
-a lawyer’s office. In this office was a large cage of birds, the care of
-which was one of his duties. This afforded him an opportunity for
-exercising that talent which he in after years applied so successfully
-to the manufacture of automata and conjuring apparatus. He thus
-describes his labors: “I began by setting up in this cage a number of
-mechanical tricks I had invented at college under similar circumstances.
-I gradually added fresh ones and ended by making the cage a work of art
-and curiosity, affording considerable attraction to our visitors. At one
-spot was a perch near which the sugar and seed-glass displayed their
-attractions, but no sooner had the innocent canary placed its foot on
-the fatal perch than a circular cage encompassed it, and it was kept a
-prisoner until another bird, perching on an adjoining piece of wood set
-loose a spring which delivered the captive. At another place were baths
-and pumps; further on was a small trough, so arranged that the nearer
-the bird seemed to draw to it the further off it really was. Lastly,
-each denizen of the cage was obliged to earn its food by drawing forward
-with its beak small pasteboard carts.”
-
-We have known the following arrangement to be used for bullfinches,
-which might be applied to other birds: The apparatus for drawing up its
-food and water consisted of a band of soft leather one-sixth of an inch
-in breadth, in which were pierced four holes, through which the feet and
-wings of the bird were put, and the ends united to a ring on the belly.
-To this ring was attached a small chain fastened at the other end to the
-seed and water vessel. When the bird is hungry it pulls the chain up a
-little way with his beak, puts his foot on it to retain the length
-already gained, then pulls again, and so continues. Sometimes the two
-vessels are attached to a pulley in such a manner that when one descends
-the other rises, so that the bird has to pull up each as he wants it.
-
-Canaries may be taught to come and go at command. To accomplish this the
-cage should be provided with doors which open only _inward_, and which
-close of themselves. When the male and female have been paired the
-former is let fly in some garden where there are trees; the cage is then
-hung outside the window, that his mate may lure him back. This is
-repeated five or six days, always letting the male go again without
-touching him, so he may not be terrified. After a time the female too
-may be set at liberty, the door of the cage being left permanently open
-that they may go and return at will.
-
-The European sparrow, which is becoming acclimated here, and will no
-doubt soon become as common here as there, is often taught to leave home
-and return at call. All that is necessary is to keep it a month in a
-large cage at the window, plentifully supplied with good food, such as
-millet, bread, etc. Winter is the best time for this purpose. An inmate
-of the Hôtel des Invalides, at Paris, is said to have made a sparrow so
-tame as to leave it perfectly at liberty without any fear of losing it.
-It was ornamented with a small bell fastened by a ribbon around its
-neck. It would not allow itself to be touched by any one but its owner,
-and was so fond of him that it could not be induced to leave him when at
-last he became bed-ridden. On one occasion it was caught and deprived of
-its bell. It was, however, melancholy and refused to eat until another
-bell had been provided.
-
-It is said that crushed hemp seed fed to linnets takes away their love
-of liberty, and that it may be used advantageously when it is desired to
-teach them to come in through the open window without danger of their
-flying away. It is advised that they should be confined in a large cage
-placed in a window looking into a garden, for a considerable time before
-they are allowed to go out. Robins are often permitted to go away during
-the summer, and instances are often reported of their returning to take
-up winter quarters in the warm dwelling-house.
-
-[Illustration: TAMED BIRDS PERFORMING VARIOUS FEATS.]
-
-Several individuals have made a regular profession of exhibiting
-performing birds. Uniting a peculiar skill and an exhaustless patience,
-these men labor ceaselessly in instructing their charges, and the result
-is that the birds learn to perform many surprising tricks. They are even
-taught to perform little dramatic scenes together; representing, for
-instance, the trial, condemnation and execution of a spy, in which the
-characters are all maintained by birds, and the action of the scene very
-cleverly represented. There is however a little trickery in this, the
-birds, although apparently acting without human agency, are in reality
-constantly under the direction of their trainer, who is usually
-concealed from the audience. Each bird is carefully instructed in his
-particular duties, and performs his part at certain signals or
-particular commands. While performing, the trainer carefully “works” the
-performers, keeps them up to their duties, and thus makes everything
-pass off smoothly in its regular order.
-
-The method of training is merely an elaboration of what we have already
-given. The birds are first made perfectly tame, and then gradually
-encouraged to perform such little tricks as jumping over the trainer’s
-finger, seizing articles presented to them with their beak or claw, and
-other trifles. By-and-by the bird will wheel a little pasteboard
-wheelbarrow with the aid of a string attached to the handles, which he
-takes in his beak. Another bird is taught to take things in his claw by
-first having articles of food presented to him which he is only allowed
-to have when he takes them in that manner. Then some other article is
-offered him and when he takes _that_ in like manner he is rewarded. When
-he will take an article at the command of the trainer all that is
-required for his performance is that the article desired should be
-offered him; thus the bird will take a miniature basket, gun, or any
-other article with equal readiness. A small lighted candle may even be
-used if managed carefully.
-
-When a bird has learned to pull a string, or seize with his beak what is
-presented to his notice, this accomplishment may be applied to many
-tricks, apparently very different. He may be made to fire off a pistol
-by pulling a string attached to the trigger; to draw a little bucket
-from a diminutive well; to ring bells; and an almost unlimited number of
-like actions. Walking on a tight rope, or wire, and carrying a little
-flag is readily accomplished after the foregoing training. The bird is
-either lifted or guided upon the rope, and the flag then given him. Many
-tricks consist in the bird merely retaining a position given him, as in
-a little swing, cradle or at a little table. A very tame bird may be
-placed in an upright ring, around the margin of which are candles or
-jets of fire. There was a sparrow at one exhibition which performed the
-seemingly wonderful feat of selecting from a shuffled pack, a card
-previously chosen by any of the audience. A dirty pack of cards was
-handed to one of the company, who selected a card, and gave it back to
-the exhibitor, who shuffled the pack after replacing the card; he then
-put the pack upright in a kind of card-case, which so held them as to
-leave about half an inch above the brim. The Java sparrow hopped on one
-of the cards, and finally drew the identical one that had been drawn.
-The explanation became easy on examining the cards. At one end, each
-card had a thin layer of sweet-wafer paste; the selected card was taken
-by the exhibitor and placed in the pack; all the rest of the cards had
-the paste end downward, while the card alone was placed back in the pack
-with the opposite end upward. And the bird naturally looked at the end.
-
-The greatest humbug in Vienna is a school of trained goldfinches, which
-a woman has taught to draw numbers from a bowl, without, however,
-_selecting_ any particular one, but merely taking them hap-hazard. All
-the superstitious lottery ticket buyers go thither for an augury, and
-the owner of the finches is reaping a rich harvest.
-
-In a work entitled Pratt’s Gleanings, for many years out of print, and
-now almost out of existence, we find the following description of an
-exhibition given by a bird tamer at a fair in the town of Cleves:
-
-“The canary was produced, and the owner harangued him in the following
-manner, placing him upon his forefinger: ‘Bijou, jewel, you are now in
-the presence of persons of great sagacity and honor; take heed you do
-not disappoint the expectations they have conceived of you from the
-world’s report. You have got laurels; beware, then, of erring.’
-
-“All this time the bird seemed to listen, and indeed placed himself in
-the true attitude of attention, by sloping his head to the ear of the
-man, and then distinctly nodding twice when his master left off
-speaking.
-
-“‘That’s good,’ said the master, pulling off his hat to the bird. ‘Now,
-then, let us see if you are a canary of honor. Give us a tune.’ The
-canary sang.
-
-“‘Pshaw! that’s too harsh; ’tis the note of a raven, with a hoarseness
-upon him; something pathetic.’ The canary whistled as if his little
-throat was changed to a lute.
-
-“‘Faster,’ says the man—‘slower—very well—what a plague is this foot
-about, and this little head? No wonder you are out, Mr. Bijou, when you
-forget your time. That’s a jewel—bravo! bravo! my little man!’
-
-“All that he was ordered or reminded of did he do to admiration. His
-head and foot beat time—humored the variations of both tone and
-movement.
-
-“‘Bravo! bravo!’ re-echoed from all parts of the room. The musicians
-declared the canary was a greater master of music than any of their
-band.
-
-“‘And do you not show your sense of this civility, sir?’ cried the bird
-catcher with an angry air. The canary bowed most respectfully, to the
-delight of the company.
-
-“His next achievement was that of going through the martial exercise
-with a straw gun, after which, ‘My poor Bijou,’ says the owner, ‘thou
-hast had hard work and must be a little weary; a few performances more
-and thou shalt repose. Show the ladies how to make a curtsey.’ The bird
-here crossed his taper legs and sank and rose with an ease and grace
-that would have put half the belles to the blush.
-
-“‘That will do, my bird; and now a bow, head and foot corresponding.’
-Here the striplings for ten miles around London might have blushed also.
-
-“‘Let us finish with a hornpipe, my brave little fellow; that’s it, keep
-it up, keep it up.’
-
-“The activity, glee, spirit, and accuracy with which this last order was
-obeyed, wound up the applause to the highest pitch of admiration. Bijou
-himself seemed to feel the sacred thirst of fame, and shook his little
-plumes and carolled an “Io paean” that sounded like the conscious notes
-of victory.”
-
-A curious trick is performed by a particular kind of pigeon, quite
-common in India. These birds are called “tumbling pigeons” from their
-peculiarity which consists of tumbling on the ground, instead of in the
-air. When required to tumble they are taken in the hand, and the head
-slightly rubbed or “filliped” with the finger, and then they are put on
-the ground, when they continue to tumble until taken up. They are not
-left on the ground until their tumblings are completed, being invariably
-taken up after they have tumbled about a dozen times; probably they
-would injure or exhaust themselves, if left longer. The pigeons are
-always white, and though their wings are long and pointed, they seem to
-have small powers of flight.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-
-
-                              CHAPTER XXV.
-                   SNAKE CHARMING AND SNAKE CHARMER.
-
-
-On the subject of snake charming, a wide diversity of opinion seems to
-exist. While it is vouched for by many apparently creditable and honest
-citizens, that the exhibitions of the East Indian snake charmers show
-that they really do possess some mysterious power over the reptiles to
-which they owe their safety in freely handling the most venomous
-serpents, on the other hand, persons apparently qualified to express an
-opinion, declare the whole system of snake charming to be but some
-clever impositions. There is said to exist a species of snake of large
-size, and so closely resembling the deadly cobra, as to be easily
-mistaken for it by ordinary observers, but which is perfectly harmless.
-May not this be used in some of these performances? Again, snakes of
-really poisonous species appear, on good authority, in many instances,
-to have been tampered with by the charmers by having their fangs
-removed, or by being made to strike them into cloth or other substances
-until the present supply of poison was exhausted. Where this has been
-done, and new fangs have grown, or more poison secreted, numerous
-charmers have lost their lives by their ignorance or carelessness of the
-fact. An officer in a French regiment stationed in Africa, relates that
-what were represented by an Arab juggler to be scorpions, were actually
-nothing but harmless lizards, and that the man’s feat of thrusting his
-naked hand into the bag containing them was no feat at all. Upon the
-officer offering to do the same act, the juggler slunk away.
-
-Music is often referred to as a probable secret of snake charming. This
-may be, in a small measure, the case, as snakes appear to like music. A
-story is told by the Gipps Land (Australia) Guardian, which may be
-entirely true, or, probably, _founded_ on truth:
-
-“We have all heard of the charms of music,” says the paper, “and many
-have, no doubt, been treated to stories which described its influence
-when brought to bear upon snakes; but we are informed of an occurrence
-during the past season which surpasses all that we heard before. When
-Mr. S—— was one day coming from Traralgon towards Rosedale, he was
-indulging himself in whistling a melodious air, while his horse was
-taking it easy at a walk. At no great distance in front he espied a good
-sized snake, with its head elevated about twelve inches from the ground,
-as if listening to the tune of the equestrian. Upon seeing it Mr. S——
-was about to dismount to arm himself with a weapon to dispatch it, but
-presently he bethought himself that it might be under the influence of
-his sweet notes, and accordingly resolved to discover. He, keeping in
-his saddle, continued as before, and when he neared the admiring reptile
-it set its sinuous form in motion, and moved along rapidly till it got a
-considerable way ahead of the pipes. Then it halted, and again raised
-the region of its intellect to sip in the strains of the harmony in its
-rear. After a repetition of this scene for several times Mr. S——
-determined on pushing his experiment further, and for this purpose set
-out in a slow trot, when, to his astonishment, the snake went double
-quick, still keeping ahead of the music, and regulating its pace by Mr.
-S——’s pace, ‘pulled up’ whenever he pulled up. At length Mr. S—— ceased
-his melody, and the snake, finding that the strain was ended, wound its
-way off into the forest. We may as well add that the tune which is
-reported to have thus charmed was no other than ‘Patrick’s Day,’
-whistled by a son of the sod.”
-
-[Illustration: SNAKE CHARMER PERFORMING.]
-
-The fact that many spectators of the exhibitions of the snake charmer
-failed to detect any deception does not prove that there _was_ no
-deception. While the detection of imposition by others, in similar
-performances, would seem to argue the _probable_ existence of it in the
-other cases. Even poisonous snakes can, by kindness and ample food,
-undoubtedly be rendered sufficiently tame to permit handling, and where
-charmers pretend to operate on strange serpents, it is suspected that
-the reptiles used are really tame ones, surreptitiously introduced
-beforehand into the places whence the charmer proposes to bring them
-forth by his charms. One case is recorded where a strange snake happened
-to be in the place so chosen; he destroyed the tame snake, and, on
-emerging, being mistaken by the charmer for his own snake, struck his
-fangs into the man when he attempted his usual jugglery with it, causing
-his speedy death.
-
-That dexterity and coolness enable men who, in eastern countries, make a
-profession of capturing dangerous snakes, which often intrude into
-dwellings, to capture these reptiles seems unquestionable; but the
-_familiarities_ described by travelers, we believe to be attempted only
-with snakes which the performer has tamed and trained, or else rendered
-harmless, for the purpose. We will, however, give the opponents of this
-theory a chance to be heard, and so present a splendid account, which is
-given by an English officer in India, of the capture, by one of their
-professional snake catchers, of a cobra which had found its way into the
-room of a sick fellow-officer, and was discovered by the narrator on
-paying his friend a visit. After the alarm had been given, the usual
-confusion outside the door, and the various expedients proposed for
-expelling the unwelcome “squatter,” the narrative goes on to describe
-the arrival and doings of the snake catcher:
-
-“He came, a tall, muscular native, a slip of cloth around the waist, his
-hair long and matted, except on the centre of his head, which was shaved
-close in a circle, and a turban covering it, bearing over his shoulders
-two baskets and a musical instrument made out of a gourd, with a single
-bamboo pipe coming from its upper end, and two smaller ones from its
-lower, like a flute, whilst the breath is blown through the upper and
-single one. Before he was allowed to enter the room he was searched, and
-his baskets and instruments taken from him. Nothing could have been
-concealed, for his clothing was reduced to its minimum, and he carried a
-short iron rod.
-
-“He was shown a hole in which we supposed the snake to be, for the
-reptile had disappeared. He lay down on the floor, and placing his face
-close to the hole, exclaimed, ‘Burra sap; sabit babut burra.’ (Big
-snake, your honor, very big.) Without any more preparation, he commenced
-digging around the hole, and removed some of the brickwork. In a few
-minutes he showed the tail of the reptile, and with sundry incantations
-in Hindostanee and curious contortions of his body, seized hold of the
-tail, and gradually drew forth the snake. It proved to be a fine
-specimen of the cobra—a black, shining, wriggling, hissing, deadly
-cobra, about five feet long, at the thickest part eight inches round,
-with a hood measuring, when extended, five inches across. The reptile he
-handled freely, whilst it was hissing and darting its tongue out every
-second. Taking it in the yard or ‘compound,’ he released it. The brute
-wriggled itself toward him, and when within a foot or so reared itself
-up, spread out the enormous hood, and prepared itself to strike at its
-captor. But the charmer was not to be wounded. He seized his primitive
-instrument, and commenced very slowly to produce low and soft tones,
-very harmonious, but unconnected. The snake seemed astonished; his hood
-gradually collapsed, his head and about a foot of his body that was
-raised from the ground commenced to sway from side to side in perfect
-harmony with the music, and slower and quicker as the time was decreased
-or increased. As the man played louder, the snake got more excited,
-until the rapid and unusual movements had quite exhausted it, and it
-subsided.
-
-“Again the charmer seized it, and quick as lightning ran his hand up its
-body, holding it firmly by the throat. By pressing on its back the
-cobra’s mouth opened, and he disclosed the fangs, poison bags, and
-apparatus complete, thus proving beyond a doubt that it was not a
-trained or tame reptile he had been treating like a plaything. Doubts
-still arose in my mind, however, about the genuineness of the
-performance, for I could not bring myself to believe that a man would
-willingly place himself in such close proximity to certain death.
-
-“A fowl was obtained and placed about a foot from the reptile, which was
-again set free. With the same movements it raised itself a foot from the
-ground, spread out its hood, and with a loud hiss, apparently of
-satisfaction, darted upon and seized the fowl by the back of the neck.
-Hanging there for a few seconds it let go its hold, and the man at the
-same instant seized it, as he had formerly done, by the head. The fowl
-almost instantaneously became drowsy, its head falling forward, and the
-beak striking with considerable force into the ground. The convulsive
-movement lasted ten seconds, and then the bird lay down as if completely
-comatose and powerless. In fifteen seconds it gave a sudden start and
-fell back quite dead.
-
-“As no deception could have been practised in this instance, I was most
-anxious to see the reptile killed; but the charmer said he would not
-have it destroyed; that if it were injured the power he had over snakes
-would be interfered with, and the next one would no doubt bite and kill
-him. He accounted for his easy capture by saying this was a great
-holiday for the snakes, and that they had been enjoying themselves.
-‘This one,’ said he, ‘is not living in this house. He has come from his
-home visiting, and has lost his way. On this account he got down a wrong
-hole, and I was enabled to pull him out. Nasty neighbors, and abominable
-visitors, these cobras! I will take this snake home, and feed him and
-make him tame.’
-
-“However, we insisted upon having the animal made harmless, or
-comparatively so, and directed the man to remove the fangs. This he
-agreed to do, and performed it in this manner—a piece of wood was cut an
-inch square, and held by the charmer to the head of the snake. The
-reptile seized it as he had done the fowl, and with a dexterous twist of
-the hand, the most primitive performance of dentistry was accomplished.
-The four fangs sticking into the wood were extracted by the roots and
-given to me. I have them now, and look upon them as more suicidally
-pleasant than a pint of prussic acid or a cask of white arsenic.
-
-“Another fowl was brought and attacked by the snake as before, but
-without any effect; it shook itself, rustled its feathers, and walked
-away consequentially. It is alive still, unless some enterprising
-culinary agent has converted it into curry or devil. So it was proved
-beyond any doubt that an Indian snake charmer was not a humbug and a
-swindler, as many suppose, but a strong-minded, quick-eyed, active,
-courageous man. The cool determination and heroism of the charmer in the
-present instance was rewarded by the sum of two rupees (two shillings,
-sterling), and he left the compound with an extra snake in his basket,
-thankful to the preservers of his children, as he styled us, and to
-whom, he said, he owed his life and existence.”
-
-The snakes used in performances at circus or “side shows” in this
-country are not poisonous, though their bite causes a painful wound,
-which it is very difficult to heal. The snakes are fed to satiety, and
-the only thing necessary to constitute a “snake charmer” of this kind is
-the overcoming of the natural repugnance to these reptiles. What was
-exhibited as a wonderful example of affection between a child and a
-snake some years ago, was a hideous humbug. The story told by the
-exhibitors of the little girl meeting the snake, sharing her bread and
-milk with it, and becoming violently attached to it (which attachment
-was claimed to be returned), before the child’s parents knew of it at
-all, and how these strong friends refused to be parted, was a tissue of
-lies. The snake had been caught and tamed, and the little girl then
-compelled by her unnatural parents to fondle the repulsive thing, from
-which she instinctively shrunk, and these stories were started in the
-papers about this wonderful “love.” When curiosity had been aroused,
-public exhibitions were given, but we believe the enterprises proved a
-deserved failure, as few persons could endure to witness this outrage on
-nature, though many, doubtless, believed the story told.
-
-
-[Illustration: THE END.]
-
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
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-------------------------------------------------------------------------
-
-
-
-
-                          TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES
-
-
- 1. Moved advertisements on the cover p. 2 to just before the cover p. 3
- 2. Table of Contents added by transcriber.
- 3. Silently corrected typographical errors and variations in spelling.
- 4. Anachronistic, non-standard, and uncertain spellings retained as
-      printed.
- 5. Footnotes have been re-indexed using numbers.
- 6. Enclosed italics font in _underscores_.
- 7. Enclosed bold font in =equals=.
-
-
-
-
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-<pre>
-
-The Project Gutenberg EBook of Haney's Art of Training Animals, by Anonymous
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
-other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of
-the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
-www.gutenberg.org.  If you are not located in the United States, you'll have
-to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook.
-
-Title: Haney's Art of Training Animals
-       A Practical Guide For Amateur Or Professional Trainers.
-              Giving Full Instructions For Breaking, Taming and Teaching
-              All Kinds of Animals Including an Improved Method of Horse
-              Breaking, Management of Farm Animals, Training of Sporting
-              Dogs; Serpent Charming, Care and Tuition of Talking, Singing
-              and Performing Birds; and Detailed Instructions For Teaching
-              All Circus Tricks, and Many Other Wonderful Feats.
-
-Author: Anonymous
-
-Release Date: November 9, 2019 [EBook #60661]
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: UTF-8
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK HANEY'S ART OF TRAINING ANIMALS ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by Richard Tonsing and the Online Distributed
-Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was
-produced from images generously made available by The
-Internet Archive)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-</pre>
-
-
-<div class='tnotes covernote'>
-
-<p class='c000'><b>Transcriber’s Note:</b></p>
-
-<p class='c000'>The cover image was created by the transcriber and is placed in the public domain.</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/cover.jpg' alt='PRICE FIFTY CENTS. HANEY’S ART OF TRAINING ANIMALS. JESSE HANEY &amp; CO., PUBLISHERS, No. 119 NASSAU STREET, NEW YORK.' class='ig001' />
-</div>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i004.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE SIEGE—PERFORMED BY DOG AND MONKEY ACTORS</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<div class='titlepage'>
-
-<div>
-  <h1 class='c001'><span class='xlarge'>HANEY’S</span><br /> <span class='c002'>ART OF</span><br /> TRAINING ANIMALS.<br /> <span class='c002'>A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR</span><br /> <span class='large'>AMATEUR OR PROFESSIONAL TRAINERS.</span><br /> <span class='small'>GIVING FULL INSTRUCTIONS FOR</span><br /> <span class='large'>Breaking, Taming and Teaching all kinds of Animals</span><br /> <span class='c002'>INCLUDING AN IMPROVED METHOD OF HORSE BREAKING, MANAGEMENT OF FARM ANIMALS, TRAINING OF SPORTING DOGS; SERPENT CHARMING, CARE AND TUITION OF TALKING, SINGING AND PERFORMING BIRDS; AND DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS FOR TEACHING ALL</span><br /> <span class='xlarge'>CIRCUS TRICKS,</span><br /> <span class='c002'>AND MANY OTHER WONDERFUL FEATS.</span></h1>
-</div>
-
-<div class='nf-center-c0'>
-<div class='nf-center c003'>
-    <div><span class='sc'>Illustrated With Over Sixty Engravings.</span></div>
-    <div class='c003'><span class='large'>New York:</span></div>
-    <div><span class='large'>JESSE HANEY &amp; CO., PUBLISHERS,</span></div>
-    <div><span class='small'>OFFICE OF HANEY’S JOURNAL,</span></div>
-    <div><span class='small'><span class='sc'>No. 119 Nassau Street.</span></span></div>
-  </div>
-</div>
-
-</div>
-
-<div class='nf-center-c0'>
-<div class='nf-center c004'>
-    <div>Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1869, by <span class='sc'>Jesse</span></div>
-    <div><span class='sc'>Haney</span> &amp; <span class='sc'>Co</span>., in the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the</div>
-    <div>United States, for the Southern District of New York.</div>
-    <div class='c005'><cite>Haney’s Art of Training Animals</cite>.</div>
-  </div>
-</div>
-
-<div class='nf-center-c0'>
-<div class='nf-center c006'>
-    <div>Electrotyped by</div>
-    <div><i>Smith &amp; McDougal</i>,</div>
-    <div>82 and 84 Beekman Street, N. Y.</div>
-  </div>
-</div>
-
-<div class='pbb'>
- <hr class='pb c005' />
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='CONTENTS' class='c007'>CONTENTS</h2>
-</div>
-<div class='lg-container-b c003'>
-  <div class='linegroup'>
-    <div class='group'>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#PREFACE'>PREFACE.</a></div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#I'>CHAPTER I.</a> INTRODUCTORY — GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF TRAINING.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#II'>CHAPTER II.</a> HORSE TAMING AND HORSE TRAINING — HORSE MANAGEMENT — WHIP TRAINING — CURING BAD HABITS, ETC.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#III'>CHAPTER III.</a> ENGLISH SYSTEM OF TRAINING HUNTERS.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#IV'>CHAPTER IV.</a> TRICKS OF PERFORMING HORSES, AND HOW THEY ARE TAUGHT.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#V'>CHAPTER V.</a> THEATRICAL HORSES AND THE HORSE DRAMA.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#VI'>CHAPTER VI.</a> BREAKING AND TRAINING MULES — PERFORMING AND “COMIC” MULES.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#VII'>CHAPTER VII.</a> SOME HINTS FOR FARMERS — MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING OF ANIMALS ON THE FARM — SOME EVILS AND HOW TO REMEDY THEM — GOOD TRAINING VS. BAD.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#VIII'>CHAPTER VIII.</a> DOGS IN GENERAL — WATCH DOGS — THE SHEPHERD’S DOG.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#IX'>CHAPTER IX.</a> SPORTING DOGS AND THEIR MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#X'>CHAPTER X.</a> ORDINARY TRICKS PERFORMED BY DOGS.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XI'>CHAPTER XI.</a> WONDERFUL FEATS PERFORMED BY DOGS — MOST CELEBRATED DOGS OF THE WORLD — LEARNING THE ALPHABET — TO PLAY CARDS AND DOMINOES — TO SELECT ANY ARTICLE DESIRED AND PUT IT ANYWHERE DIRECTED.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XII'>CHAPTER XII.</a> TAMING AND TRAINING ELEPHANTS — CAPTURE AND TREATMENT — ELEPHANTS AS LABORERS AND AS CIRCUS PERFORMERS.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XIII'>CHAPTER XIII.</a> LIONS, TIGERS, LEOPARDS AND PANTHERS.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XIV'>CHAPTER XIV.</a> TAMING WILD ANIMALS IN GENERAL — SQUIRRELS — BEARS — BUFFALOES — WOLVES — HYENAS — RHINOCEROSES — HIPPOPOTAMI — CROCODILES — ALLIGATORS.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XV'>CHAPTER XV.</a> EDUCATION OF CATS AND GOATS.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XVI'>CHAPTER XVI.</a> EDUCATED HOGS AND THEIR TRAINING.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XVII'>CHAPTER XVII.</a> PERFORMING MONKEYS — MONKEY EQUESTRIANS — THE “WONDERFUL CYNOCEPHALUS” — MONKEY ACTORS, ETC.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XVIII'>CHAPTER XVIII.</a> RATS — MICE — FROGS — TOADS — FLEAS, ETC.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XIX'>CHAPTER XIX.</a> “HAPPY FAMILIES” — ENEMIES BY NATURE MADE FRIENDS BY ART.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XX'>CHAPTER XX.</a> EDUCATED SEALS — TAME FISH, ETC.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XXI'>CHAPTER XXI.</a> THE ART OF TAMING BIRDS.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XXII'>CHAPTER XXII.</a> SONG BIRDS — THEIR MANAGEMENT AND TUITION.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XXIII'>CHAPTER XXIII.</a> TALKING BIRDS AND THEIR TRAINING.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XXIV'>CHAPTER XXIV.</a> PERFORMING BIRDS — THEIR TRICKS AND THEIR TRAINING.</div>
-      <div class='line'><a href='#XXV'>CHAPTER XXV.</a> SNAKE CHARMING AND SNAKE CHARMER.</div>
-    </div>
-  </div>
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_11'>11</span>
-  <h2 id='PREFACE' class='c007'>PREFACE.</h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c008'>The intention of the present volume is to initiate the
-reader into all the mysteries and secrets of the “Art of Training
-Animals,” and to give full and clear explanations of, and
-instructions in, every branch of that art. It is believed that
-the reader will find it acceptable whether he desires using its instructions
-practically either for profit or as an agreeable
-recreation, or as merely a curiosity to know how the feats
-herein described are taught.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>This is believed to be the first and only attempt made to treat
-this subject fully and systematically. Fragmentary articles
-have occasionally appeared, and some works, treating of one or
-another of the various animals, have given a few brief though
-interesting paragraphs touching their educatability or sagacity.
-Even combined these form but a comparatively meager collection,
-and the volume herewith presented has the essential part of
-all this as well as a very large amount of matter which is entirely
-new. The aim has been to make the book as complete as
-possible, and to do this the author has profited by the experience
-and writings of others wherever they could be made available.
-He has, however, striven in all such cases to give full credit.
-As far as it was possible to communicate with the parties in
-question, their consent was explicitly obtained, and in no case to
-the best of his knowledge (certainly not intentionally) has any
-material been used contrary to the wishes of its owner, or without
-due acknowledgment, and he would respectfully ask any
-who may desire to make use of any part of his own labors to
-a reasonable extent, the same courtesy of full credit to Haney’s
-Art of Training Animals.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To many gentlemen in the profession we are indebted for
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_12'>12</span>details of their experience, and material of various kinds.
-Much of information relating to birds is derived from the works
-of the celebrated German fancier Bechstein; while to Mons.
-Emil de Tarade is due a portion of that about the French dogs.
-To Mr. Robert Jennings, whose works on the horse, as well as
-on cattle, are deservedly popular, we are also indebted; also to
-Mr. Smith of the New York Courier.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>While attempting to give plain practical instruction in the
-art we profess to teach, we have also designed to make a readable
-book, and it is hoped that its perusal may prove pleasant
-as well as profitable. That money can be made by training
-animals, is unquestionably true—even a boy can make his pets
-more valuable by teaching them a few simple tricks.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In conclusion we may add that to amateurs interested in the
-subject, a visit to either of the really fine collections of trained
-and wild animals of Van Amburgh or “Yankee” Robinson, will
-prove most thoroughly enjoyable. To the proprietors of both of
-these establishments we are indebted for valuable assistance.</p>
-
-<div><span class='pageno' id='Page_13'>13</span></div>
-<div class='section ph2'>
-
-<div class='nf-center-c0'>
-<div class='nf-center c004'>
-    <div>ART OF TRAINING ANIMALS.</div>
-  </div>
-</div>
-
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='I' class='c007'>CHAPTER I.<br /> <span class='large'>INTRODUCTORY—GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF TRAINING.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Dr. Kemp thus concisely and clearly stages the difference
-between instinct and reason: “In the former there is an
-irresistible impulse to go through a certain series of motions
-after a certain fashion, without knowing why they are performed,
-or what their result will be. In the latter the actions depend
-upon previous mental judgments, are performed or not at will,
-and the end of them is early anticipated and defined.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>We believe the evidence is too strong to be doubted that
-many animals <i>do</i> perceive the relation between cause and effect,
-and that many of their actions, especially when the animals are
-surrounded by the unnatural circumstances of a state of domestication,
-must be ascribed to the reasoning power. There was
-a dog who lived in a strict monastery where the monks dined
-alone, and who, instead of asking for their meals, obtained them
-by knocking at the buttery door, the cook answering by opening
-the door and pushing the allowance through. The dog observed
-this proceeding and accordingly knocked at the door and laid in
-wait until the meal was placed outside, and the door shut, when
-he ran off with it. This he repeated a number of times.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The contrast between instinct and reason is displayed in the
-coursing of hares. If an old and a young grayhound be employed
-we have examples of both instinct and reason. The
-young one instinctively pursues his game, following every turn
-and winding, while the old dog, reasoning from past experience,
-knows that the hare will double, and accordingly does not
-exactly follow her, but goes across. A similar example is
-afforded by the dogs employed in hunting the deer in South
-America. The newly imported dog, in approaching the deer,
-flies at it in front and is often injured by the concussion. The
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_14'>14</span>native dogs have learned to avoid this danger and they invariably
-keep from the front, and attack from the side or rear.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Instances might be multiplied indefinitely, but our object is
-only to show the distinction made between reason and instinct;
-those who desire to investigate the subject more thoroughly
-can do so through works specially devoted to natural history.
-No doubt any observing person can recall instances in his own
-experience with animals, where their actions showed evidence of
-a greater or less degree of reasoning power.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>An action may be partly instinctive and partly the result of
-reasoning, but a purely instinctive action never changes except
-under the influence of reason. A hen sits on her eggs from an
-instinctive impulse to do so. If chalk ones be substituted for
-the real eggs she tends them with equal care and will not desert
-them any sooner than she would the others. And yet in other
-matters perhaps hens have reasoning powers.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Without the possession of these powers we believe no education
-of animals would be possible; and we farther believe that
-the capacity for learning is in exact proportion to the ability to
-reason. A horse or dog can be readily taught things which a
-hog can never learn, and in the lower scales of animal life all
-attempts at education become failures. Under the tuition of
-man the reasoning powers are undoubtedly developed to an
-extent to which they would never attain in a state of nature,
-and by judicious and persistent teaching numerous animals have
-been educated to an almost startling degree. How this has
-been done we shall show as we proceed.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Not only does the amount of reason vary with different species
-but with different individuals of the same species, and much of
-the trainer’s success will depend on the judicious selection of his
-pupil. Professional trainers take the utmost pains in this
-selection, and they usually consider that the descendants of an
-educated animal have, by inheritance, a greater aptitude for
-learning than others.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The young trainer must not fall into the mistaken notion that
-mere quickness in picking up a trick is the best quality in an animal.
-There may be such a thing as learning a lesson too rapidly,
-and what is learned with but slight effort is sometimes forgotten
-with equal readiness. Another thing, too much should not be
-expected of one pupil. Public exhibitors are able to show a
-large array of tricks because of the number of animals they
-have, each, as a rule, knowing a comparatively few of these
-tricks, or, in the case of some of the “sensation” tricks, perhaps
-only one. Still any animal of ordinary capacity ought, with
-proper tuition, to be able to learn a sufficient variety to satisfy
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_15'>15</span>a reasonable trainer. Judicious management on the part of the
-exhibitor will often make a variety of tricks out of a single one
-which the animal has been taught; an example of this is
-afforded by the “educated hog.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The first essential for success in training animals is patience.
-At first many lessons may be given without the slightest apparent
-impression being made upon the mind of the pupil and an
-uncommon degree of patience and good temper is required to
-bear up against such discouraging results. By-and-by, however,
-the pupil will suddenly appear to realize what is required
-of him, and will perform his task with surprising accuracy at
-the very moment his teacher is about to give up in despair.
-Then each successive lesson is learned with greater ease and
-rapidity than the preceding one; the weariness and disappointment
-of the trainer is changed to pleasure at his success, and
-even the animal appears to sympathize with his master’s joy,
-and to take pride in his performance.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>As it is impossible to <i>explain</i> to an animal what is required
-of him he can be taught an action only by its constant repetition
-until he becomes familiar with it. When he knows what you
-want him to do he will in almost all cases comply with your
-wishes promptly and cheerfully. For this reason punishments
-seldom do any good, unless the animal is willful, which is rare.
-On the contrary they, as a general rule, interfere with the
-success of the lessons. If the pupil is in constant fear of blows
-his attention will be diverted from the lesson, he will dread
-making any attempt to obey for fear of failure, and he will have
-a sneaking look which will detract materially from the appearance
-of his performance. This is the case with the animals
-instructed by a trainer of this city who “trains his horses with
-a club,” the animals never appearing as well as those taught by
-more gentle means. But for a rare natural talent this man’s
-success would have been utterly defeated by his brutality. He
-is the only one we know of in the profession who does not base
-his tuition on kindness to the pupil. A sharp word or a slight
-tap with a small switch will as effectually show your displeasure
-as the most severe blows. It is both cruel and unwise to inflict
-needless pain.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>All trainers make use of various little tit-bits as rewards for
-successful performance of tricks. These serve as a powerful
-incentive to the animal as well as to show him when he has done
-right. Withholding the accustomed reward when he fails or but
-imperfectly performs his duty is much more effective than any
-corporeal punishment. The repetition of the lesson until the
-animal will himself perform the required action, and the bestowal
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_16'>16</span>of these rewards whenever he obeys your order, is really the
-main secret of training. Of course there are many important
-details in the practical application, and many clever devices
-resorted to by trainers to increase the effectiveness of tricks, as
-well as skillful combinations of simple tricks to produce elaborate
-and astonishing feats. These we shall fully explain in their
-proper places.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To certain scents has sometimes been ascribed a mysterious
-influence upon animals, rendering them docile and subservient
-to the human will. To the use of these many persons imagine
-trainers owe their success. Though some scents are relished
-by certain animals, we doubt whether, as a rule, they have so
-great a fondness for them as has been asserted. Certainly there
-is no general use of them in the profession, though they may
-have been sold to the credulous by ignorant or unprincipled persons,
-for this purpose. Cats are fond of catnip, and we know of
-instances where kittens, displaying a violent resistance to being
-carried in a basket, have been quieted by being given some leaves
-of this herb. Animals no doubt receive pleasure from the gratification
-of their sense of smell, but there is about as much
-reason in conquering an unruly school-boy by giving him a sniff
-of cologne water, as in taming a colt by causing him to smell
-that or any other perfume.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To the oil of rhodium is most frequently ascribed the greatest
-and most general influence over the animal kingdom, almost all
-animals, according to this theory being powerfully affected by
-it. This is the “horse taming secret” sometimes sold for considerable
-sums. There is no good reason to believe it has any
-important influence over either the disposition or actions of
-any animal.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The horse taming powders, composed of “a horse’s corn
-grated, some hairs from a black cat’s tail,” and like absurd ingredients,
-are too nonsensical to deserve serious notice, though
-once a staple part of the veterinary art, and still, possibly, believed
-in by a few persons.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To a certain extent many animals are able to understand the
-meaning of words. That is, if any particular word of command
-be used in instructing an animal to do a particular act he will
-learn to associate that word with the action, and be able to distinguish
-between a variety of words and apply each to the act
-associated with it, without confusing them. In training animals
-it is important that each word of command should be used only
-in its proper place. The common habit ignorant drivers have
-of using the words “back,” “whoa,” and others indiscriminately
-is absurd, and it is not wonderful that their horses sometimes
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_17'>17</span>fail to understand them. A story is told of a farmer who had
-recently purchased a new yoke of oxen, and was driving them in
-a cart. Slipping from his seat he fell before one of the wheels
-and very naturally got run over. “Back! back!” he cried to
-the oxen, meaning for them to <i>stop</i>, but, like many another man,
-using words which meant something else. The oxen happened
-to be better linguists, or else had been accustomed to obey
-literally, and in this case did so by backing as ordered, running
-over the man for the second time.</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='II' class='c007'>CHAPTER II.<br /> <span class='large'>HORSE TAMING AND HORSE TRAINING—HORSE MANAGEMENT—WHIP TRAINING—CURING BAD HABITS, ETC.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Some few persons imagine that to possess a proper mastery
-over their horses, they must maintain their authority by
-brute force. This is a great mistake. More work, within the
-limit of safety, can be got out of a horse by kindness than by
-cruelty, and as far as <i>managing</i> a horse is concerned the chief
-point is to teach him confidence in you. If he believes you to
-be his friend he will not only strive to please you, but will have
-less fear of strange objects which otherwise might startle him
-and render him refractory.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The Rareys—there are two or three of them—taught the world
-a most important lesson when they taught it the “power of
-kindness” and “self-control” in the management of horses,
-donkeys, zebras, and other animals. How often do we see
-inconsiderate parents fly into a passion and, without reason or
-religion, thrash the object of their displeasure. So of brutal,
-heartless drivers, when the “blinded” horses chance to misstep,
-get off the track, stumble, or in the wrong place. By their
-actions it would appear that they expected a horse or an ass to
-reason quite as well as themselves. Employers may not look
-for the same talent in their apprentices as in their foreman.
-Teachers may expect every little urchin to be self-regulating
-and to mind his books; but this it is his duty to <i>teach</i> him to do,
-and he should be all patience, all kindness, affection, perseverance,
-if he would produce the <i>best</i> results. The same spirit is
-required to subdue and manage a horse. If you say you are
-not equal to the task; if you say your child, your horse, or
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_18'>18</span>your ox knows <i>more</i> than you, is your master, then you are
-not the one to manage him, and you should resign in favor of
-one who is superior to child, horse, or ox. A weak man in
-intellect may indeed be outwitted by a sagacious child or horse.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>There is no disguising the fact that viciousness is innate with
-some horses. But far more so with some, nay, most, men,
-from whom they get it. It is no doubt sometimes hereditary,
-and follows some of the best strains of blood we have. That
-viciousness should accompany a highly nervous organization is
-not to be wondered at. Hence it causes no surprise when we
-find such dispositions among the finely organized thoroughbreds—animals
-of a most sensitive and nervous organization—from
-which the common expression “thin skinned,” as applied to a
-too sensitive man, is obviously derived. The treatment horses
-receive, and the <i>moral</i> atmosphere in which they are thrown,
-have a much greater influence than most horsemen are generally
-inclined to admit. The pinching, tickling, rough, boisterous
-stable boy who annoys a spirited horse for the sake of enjoying
-his futile, though almost frantic kicks and leers, is affecting the
-disposition of the horse and his descendants for generations to
-come, besides putting in jeopardy the lives and limbs of those
-who are brought in contact with the horse so tampered with.
-A horse is surely influenced by the character of the men with
-whom he associates.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Sometimes, however, it is necessary to conquer a bad tempered
-horse, and if possible to secure a radical conversion or change
-of character which shall be lasting. No timorous man need
-undertake this task; he will only make matters worse. A
-horse tamer should be calm, cool, brave, and fearless—the horse
-will know it; he should be quiet, for then the horse will be put
-off his guard; he should be firm and give the brute no advantage,
-but crowd him up to doing something, and that, invariably,
-what the tamer wants him to do. Thus any ordinary horse
-will soon give up and own man his master. The kindest treatment
-and even petting must always follow yielding; and if
-possible to help it, the horse should never be frightened by any
-treatment, and above all things he should never be angered by
-petty torture. His own contrariness should appear to him to
-be the cause of all his trouble, and man his best friend. This
-principle is at the foundation of Rarey’s successful practice.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>POWELL’S MANAGEMENT OF WILD HORSES.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>Place your horse in a small yard, or in a stable or room.
-If in a stable or room, it ought to be large, in order to give him
-some exercise with the halter before you lead him out. If the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_19'>19</span>horse belongs to that class which appears only to fear man, you
-must introduce yourself gently into the stable, room, or yard,
-where the horse is. He will naturally run from you, and frequently
-turn his head from you; for you must walk about
-extremely slow and softly, so that he can see you whenever he
-turns his head toward you, which he never fails to do in a short
-time, say in a quarter or half an hour. I never knew one to be
-much longer without turning toward me.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>At the very moment he turns his head, hold out your hand
-toward him, and stand perfectly still, keeping your eyes upon
-the horse, watching his motions, if he makes any. If the
-horse does not stir for ten or fifteen minutes, advance as slowly
-as possible, and without making the least noise, always holding
-out your left hand, without any other ingredient in it than what
-nature put in it. I have made use of certain ingredients before
-people, such as the sweat under my arm, etc., to disguise the
-real secret and many believed that the docility to which the
-horse arrived in so short a time was owing to these ingredients;
-but you see from this explanation that they were of no use
-whatever. The implicit faith placed in these ingredients,
-though innocent of themselves, becomes “faith without works.”
-And thus men always remained in doubt concerning the secret.
-If the horse makes the least motion when you advance toward
-him, stop, and remain perfectly still until he is quiet. Remain
-a few moments in this condition, and then advance again in the
-same slow and almost imperceptible manner. Take notice, if
-the horse stirs, stop, without changing your position. It is
-very uncommon for the horse to stir more than once after you
-begin to advance, yet there are exceptions. He generally keeps
-his eyes steadfast on you, until you get near enough to touch
-him on the forehead. When you are thus near to him, raise
-your hand slowly and by degrees, and let it come in contact
-with that part just above the nostrils as lightly as possible.
-If the horse flinches (as many will,) repeat with great rapidity
-these light strokes upon the forehead, going a little farther up
-toward his ears by degrees, and descending with the same
-rapidity until he will let you handle his forehead all over. Now
-let the strokes be repeated with more force all over his forehead,
-descending by lighter strokes to each side of his head, until you
-can handle that part with equal facility. Then touch in the
-same light manner, making your hands and fingers play around
-the lower part of the horse’s ears, coming down now and then
-to his forehead, which may be looked upon as the helm that
-governs all the rest.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Having succeeded in handling his ears, advance toward the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_20'>20</span>neck with the same precaution, and in the same manner; observing
-always to augment the force of the strokes whenever
-the horse will permit it. Perform the same on both sides of
-the neck, until he lets you take it in your arms without flinching.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Proceed in the same progressive manner to the sides, and
-then to the back of the horse. Every time the horse shows any
-nervousness, return immediately to the forehead, as the true
-standard, patting him with your hands, and thence rapidly to
-where you had already arrived, always gaining ground a considerable
-distance farther on every time this happens. The head,
-ears, neck, and body being thus gentled, proceed from the back
-to the root of the tail.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>This must be managed with dexterity, as a horse is never to
-be depended on that is skittish about the tail. Let your hand
-fall lightly and rapidly on that part next to the body a minute
-or two, and then you will begin to give it a slight pull upward
-every quarter of a minute. At the same time you continue this
-handling of him, augment the force of the strokes as well as the
-raising of the tail, until you can raise it and handle it with the
-greatest ease, which commonly happens in a quarter of an hour
-in most horses, in others almost immediately, and in some much
-longer. It now remains to handle all his legs; from the tail
-come back again to the head, handle it well, as likewise the
-ears, breast, neck, etc., speaking now and then to the horse.
-Begin by degrees to descend to the legs, always ascending and
-descending, gaining ground every time you descend, until you
-get to his feet.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Talk to the horse while thus taming him; let him hear the
-sound of your voice, which at the beginning of the operation is
-not quite so necessary, but which I have always done in making
-him lift up his feet. “Hold up your foot,” you will say; at
-the same time lifting his foot with your hand. He soon becomes
-familiar with the sounds, and will hold up his foot at command.
-Then proceed to the hind feet and go on in the same manner;
-and in a short time the horse will let you lift them, and even
-take them up in your arms.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>All this operation is no magnetism, or galvanism; it is merely
-taking away the fear a horse generally has of a man, and familiarizing
-the animal with his master. As the horse doubtless
-experiences a certain pleasure from this handling, he will soon
-become gentle under it, and show a very marked attachment to
-his keeper.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>MANAGING HORSES BY KINDNESS.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>A lady visiting Egypt some years ago, gave in one of her
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_21'>21</span>letters to her friends at home, an instance of the power of gentleness
-in controlling even the most spirited of horses. She
-gives the following description of her experience with the
-Arabian horses: “I fear you may deem me rather boastful of
-my horsemanship when I tell you that the two Arab horses which
-threw their cavaliers did not throw me. The cause of the
-exception was not in me or my skill; it was the very remarkable
-predilection these intelligent animals feel toward individuals
-of the weaker sex. Let the wildest and fiercest Arabian
-be mounted by a woman, and you will see him suddenly grow
-mild and gentle as a lamb. I have had plenty of opportunities
-to make the experiment, and in my own stables there is a beautiful
-gray Arabian which nobody but myself dares to ride. He
-knows me, anticipates my wishes, and judiciously calculates
-the degree of fatigue I can bear without inconvenience. It is
-curious to see how he can manage to quicken his pace without
-shaking me, and the different sorts of steps he has invented to
-realize those contradictory purposes. Horses being as liable to
-forgetfulness as other organized beings, my incomparable gray
-would allow his natural ambition to overcome his gallantry, and
-if another horse threatened to pass him, would start off with the
-speed of the whirlwind. Woe to me if, under these circumstances,
-I were to trust to the strength of my arm or the power of the
-bridle! I knew my gallant charger better. Leaving my hand
-quite loose, and abandoning all thoughts of compulsion, I would
-take to persuasion; pat him on the neck; call him by his name;
-beg him to be quiet and deserve the piece of sugar waiting for
-him at home. Never did these gentle means fail. Instantly he
-would slacken his pace, prick up his ears as if fully comprehending
-his error, and come back to a soft amble, gently neighing
-as if to crave pardon for his momentary offense.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>This power of women over the Arabian horses is partly due,
-no doubt, to the fact that when still a colt he is reared in the
-back part of the tent, the movable harem of the Arab. He is
-constantly petted, and it is the women who see that he is supplied
-with food, and tenderly cared for. It is the attachment
-which is by these means awakened in the horse that leads him
-to so cheerfully yield obedience to the female voice. Deservedly
-high as may stand the Arabian horse for docility and sagacity,
-it should not be forgotten that, in the absence of all other
-amusements, the education of the foal becomes a pleasure as
-well as a business; it thus becomes attached to its biped companions,
-and takes a pride in enacting all that is required of him.
-If his rider falls, the horse will stand by and neigh for assistance;
-if he lies down to sleep, the horse will watch over him
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_22'>22</span>and give notice of the approach of man or beast. Similar anecdotes
-are related of all horses kindly treated, no matter where
-may be their home. We heard of one who had a drunken
-master, and this horse surpassed the Arab example even in
-intelligence, for he would modify his gait so as to keep his reeling
-rider from falling off; and if this catastrophe did happen,
-the horse would stand for hours, regardless of food or drink, and
-with anger and determination attack man or beast that would
-approach too near.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO CURE A STUBBORN DISPOSITION.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>If your horse, instead of being wild, seems to be of a stubborn
-or <i>mulish</i> disposition; if he lays back his ears as you approach
-him, or turns his heels to kick you, he has not the regard or fear of
-man that he should have to enable you to handle him quickly
-and easily; and it might be well to give him a few sharp cuts
-with the whip, about the legs, pretty close to the body. It will
-crack keenly as it plies around his legs, and the crack of the
-whip will affect him as much as the stroke; besides one sharp
-cut about his legs will affect him more than two or three over
-his back, the skin on the inner part of his legs or about his
-flank being thinner, more tender, than on his back. But do not
-whip him much—just enough to frighten him; <i>it is not because
-we want to hurt the horse that we whip him</i>—we only do it to
-frighten vice and stubbornness out of him. But whatever you
-do, do quickly, sharply, and with a good deal of fire, but always
-without anger. If you are going to frighten him at all, you
-must do it at once. Never go into a pitched battle with your
-horse, and whip him until he is mad and will fight you; it would
-be better not to touch him at all, for you will establish, instead
-of fear and respect, feelings of resentment, hatred, and ill-will.
-It will do him no good, but harm, to strike him, unless you can
-frighten him; but if you can succeed in frightening him, you
-can whip him without making him mad; <i>for fear and anger
-never exist together in the horse</i>, and as soon as one is visible,
-you will find that the other has disappeared. As soon as you
-have frightened him, so that he will stand up straight and pay
-some attention to you, approach him again, and caress him a
-good deal more than you whipped him; thus you will excite the
-two controlling passions of his nature, love and fear; he will
-love and fear you too; and, as soon as he learns what you
-require, will obey quickly. The stubbornness once broken down,
-there is seldom any farther trouble of that score, if the horse be
-afterward managed with judgment and kindness. He will
-appreciate your kindness and become desirous of pleasing you.</p>
-
-<div>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_23'>23</span>
-  <h3 class='c011'>THE CORD AND LINE WEBBING.</h3>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>One of the main appliances used by horse tamers is a three
-or four ply cord or rope, one of cotton being the best, such as is
-used by the Indians for subduing their horses. This cord is a
-powerful instrument for either good or evil, as it is properly or
-improperly used. It may be prepared by any one in the manner
-shown in the engraving:</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i019.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>LOOPING THE CORD.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>A knot is to be tied in each end, then make a loop by doubling
-the cord and passing the knot through as represented above.
-Be careful to make the loops at such a distance from the knot
-as will allow the cord to pass around the neck at one end, and
-the lower jaw at the other, passing the knot through the loop
-from the opposite side of the loop to where it passed through in
-making the lap. The necessity for this will be seen on applying
-the cord. The object is to obtain steady pressure upon
-the lower jaw, as well as friction in the mouth.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In addition to the cord a piece of worsted webbing, such as is
-used for driving lines should be prepared in the following manner:
-Divide it into two parts, one piece being of sufficient
-length to girt the body. Make a loop in one end large enough
-for the other end to pass through, so as, when adjusted it is
-sufficiently long to tie. These pieces of webbing will be useful
-in carrying out future directions.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO TEACH A HORSE TO STOP.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>The word “whoa” should be used only to stop a horse when
-he is in motion. Never use it when you approach a horse standing
-quietly. Horses soon learn to distinguish any word often
-addressed to them, and they should learn to associate it with
-some definite and exact duty which you wish them to perform.
-If any word of command is used indiscriminately, or out of its
-proper place, the animal becomes confused and loses the association
-between the word and the object desired.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To teach a horse the meaning of the word “whoa,” the
-arrangement shown in the accompanying illustration may be
-used. Put the large web, previously described, around his
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_24'>24</span>near fore foot, pass it under the girth; and as the animal walks
-along, pull up the foot, saying at the same instant, “Whoa.”
-He will be brought to a stop, and by repeating the lesson he
-will soon raise the foot and stop even though the web is not
-pulled upon.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i020a.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>“WHOA.”</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i020b.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>TEACHING THE HORSE TO BACK.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO TEACH A HORSE TO BACK.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>Put the cord upon the horse, using the small loop; draw it
-with a steady pull; this brings the horse’s nose toward his
-body. Keep a firm hold upon the cord until he steps back a
-little, using at the same time the word “back.” Then caress
-him; by doing so you show him that he has done exactly as
-you wished him to, and the caresses should be repeated every
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_25'>25</span>time he obeys. The utmost gentleness must be observed in
-order not to excite him, and the lesson should not be long enough
-to tire him. Five to ten minutes being the best length, repeated
-at intervals of a few hours. As soon as he understands what
-you desire he will probably back promptly at command.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO MAKE A HORSE FOLLOW YOU.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>The directions make simple what have hitherto been among
-the mysteries of the circus. Turn the horse into a large stable
-or shed, where there is no chance to get out, with a halter or
-bridle on. Go to him and gentle him a little, take hold of his
-halter, and turn him toward you, at the same time touching
-him lightly over the hips with a long whip. Lead him the
-length of the stable, rubbing him on the neck, saying in a steady
-tone of voice, “Come along, boy!” or use his name instead of
-“boy,” if you choose. Every time you turn, touch him slightly
-with the whip, to make him step up close to you, and then caress
-him with your hand. He will soon learn to hurry up to escape
-the whip and be caressed, and you can make him follow you
-around without taking hold of the halter. If he should stop and
-turn from you, give him a few sharp cuts about the hind legs,
-and he will soon turn his head toward you, when you must
-always caress him. A few lessons of this kind will make him
-run after you, when he sees the motion of the whip—in twenty
-or thirty minutes he will follow you about the stable. After
-you have given him two or three lessons in the stable, take him
-out into a small field and train him; and thence you can
-take him into the road and make him follow you anywhere, and
-run after you.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO STAND WITHOUT HOLDING.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>To make a horse stand without holding, after you have him
-well broken to follow you, place him in the center of the stable—begin
-at his head to caress him, gradually working backward.
-If he moves give him a cut with the whip, and put him back to
-the same spot from which he started. If he stands, caress him
-as before, and continue gentling him in this way until you can
-get round him without making him move. Keep walking around
-him, increasing your pace, and only touch him occasionally.
-Enlarge your circle as you walk around, and if he then moves,
-give him another cut with the whip, and put him back to his
-place. If he stands, go to him frequently and caress him, and
-then walk around him again. Do not keep him in one position
-too long at a time, but make him come to you occasionally, and
-follow you around the stable. Then make him stand in another
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_26'>26</span>place, and proceed as before. You should not train your horse
-more than half an hour at a time.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>WHIP TRAINING.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>So accustomed are we to the use of bit and reins for driving
-that we have got to consider them absolutely requisite for guiding
-a horse. Horses however may, if properly taught, be driven
-without either bit or reins, merely by signals with the whip.
-Probably the simplest and most concise directions for whip
-training are given by Mr. Jennings in his valuable work on
-training horses. Mr. Jennings says:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“To train a horse thoroughly to drive without bit or line,
-under the whip, requires from four to six weeks’ time; it requires
-also a man of strong nerve and self-control to be a successful
-trainer in this particular branch. Whip training illustrates the
-beauty and power of our system of horse training. Such a feat
-as driving a horse without bit or line cannot be accomplished by
-any other system known to man. Having selected a horse with
-a moderate share of intelligence, the next thing is to secure a
-suitable place for training. An enclosure twenty-five or thirty
-feet square is required. If you have it smaller, and your horse
-should be disposed to kick, you would be in danger; if larger it
-gives the animal too much room to get away from the whip. It
-is better that you go in with the horse alone, as then the animal
-will have no other object to take his attention. Turn him loose
-without bridle or halter in the enclosure; take your position in
-the centre, holding in your right hand a straight whip nine or
-ten feet long; you crack the whip as you take your position;
-this alarms the horse and causes him to run into one corner of
-the enclosure; crack it several times that he may learn that you
-do not intend to hurt him; now commence tapping him lightly
-upon the near shoulder, but not to hurt him; if a nervy fellow
-he is all excitement for a few minutes; continue the tapping
-until he turns his head toward you, which he will do in a short
-time. The moment he turns it, however slight it may be, cease
-the whipping; as soon as he turns it away again repeat the
-tapping with the whip; in a few minutes he again turns his
-head toward you; stop the motion of the whip; as he turns
-away repeat the whip tapping as before; in a very short time he
-turns around so that you can approach him; now gently caress
-him; move away and again approach him; should he turn away
-repeat the whipping, by this means you teach him to come to
-you on the near side. After he has learned this thoroughly,
-which requires about one week’s training, half an hour each day,
-then proceed in the same manner upon the off side; as soon as
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_27'>27</span>he obeys the motion of the whip upon this side, take your position
-behind him, and turn him by the motion of the whip to the
-right or to the left; as soon as he performs nicely, put the harness
-upon him, take the lines behind him, and, as you give him
-the word to go forward, throw the whip down by his right side
-without touching him, at the same time have the long web around
-the near fore foot, and give it to an assistant; you want him to
-stop, give him the word ‘Whoa,’ at the same time your assistant
-pulls up the foot, turn the whip in a horizontal position
-above your head—in this way you teach him that the whip in
-that position means ‘Whoa.’ By repeating these motions, he
-learns in about four weeks to turn to the right whenever the
-whip is thrown toward the right shoulder; to the left when
-thrown toward the left shoulder; to go ahead when thrown down
-by the right side; and to stop when held in a horizontal position.
-You now want to teach him to back; having previously instructed
-him according to our rule, put the cord, using the small loop,
-in his mouth; take the cord in your hand with the reins, pull
-upon the reins and say ‘Back,’ at the same time keep the whip
-directly over the animal’s back, giving it an upward and downward
-motion, or you may tap him gently upon the back with
-the whip—this is best done in a sulky. If he starts forward,
-set him back by pulling quickly upon the cord; repeat the operation
-until he will go back by the motion of the whip alone.
-Should he make repeated efforts to go forward, bring the whip
-quickly once or twice down over his nose, he will not then repeat
-the operation very often; with this training, it is necessary to
-use an open bridle, so that the animal will see the motion of
-the whip; you are now prepared to hook him up for the first
-drive. Take an assistant with you; have the foot strap or long
-web secured upon the near fore foot; give it in charge of your
-assistant; let the lines lie over the dash, as a matter of precaution.
-Now commence operations with the whip; if the animal
-acts promptly, remove the foot web and begin again, having the
-lines over the dash as before; drive the animal in this way at
-least two or three weeks before removing the bit from the
-mouth. Your horse is now safe to drive under the whip.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The large and noble looking horses which draw the trucks of
-the safe manufacturers in this city, are hitched in single file,
-only the rear one having reins attached. Sometimes six or
-eight horses will be required to draw the ponderous load,
-and the coolness and dexterity with which they wend their way
-through the confused mass of vehicles in the crowded streets is
-a truly remarkable sight. Without any guidance the leader
-will press onward through the mass, deftly avoiding collisions
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_28'>28</span>and entanglement. Changes of route, stoppages, etc., are
-effected by such orders as “Whoa,” “Gee,” “Haw,” which
-the leader promptly and intelligently obeys.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO CURE BALKY HORSES.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>From the number of “infallible recipes” given in the papers
-for curing balky horses we should judge a little light on the
-subject is called for by horsemen. The various remedies which
-different correspondents describe as having proved effective in
-their own experience would form a curious collection, though
-some of them betray a remarkable lack of real knowledge about
-the matter. One genius has discovered that stuffing a horse’s
-mouth and nostrils with road dust is highly successful. Another
-humane individual deeply deplores the barbarous practice of
-whacking balky horses over the head and legs, and suggests
-that there should be substituted a system of steady, but not
-very severe, pounding in one spot with a “smooth club,” until
-“the pain grows intolerable and he starts nervously forward.”
-One hero, whose valor deserves to be chronicled for the admiration
-of future ages, thus modestly relates <i>his</i> experience with
-“one of the perverse animals,” as he calls his horse:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“The first work I did with him after he came into my possession
-was to draw a load of hay from the meadow. He started
-a few rods and then stood still, and no amount of urging that I
-could command would induce him to budge an inch. I took the
-pitchfork and sat down on the fore end of the load and began
-to prick him about the root of his tail, inserting the tines just
-through the skin. He kicked, but the load of hay was a complete
-protection. I kept on, moderately and persistently pricking
-for about five minutes, when he started for the barn. He never
-attempted to balk but once after, when the mere sight of the
-pitchfork was sufficient to make him draw.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In Cecil county, Maryland, a farmer resorted to a rather novel
-expedient for getting some “go” out of a balky horse. Having
-loaded his wagon rather heavily with wheat, the horses were
-either unable or refused to draw it. After trying for some time
-to put them in motion, he set fire to a sheaf of wheat, and applied
-the flame to one of the horses. The horse, not relishing the
-application, by a well directed kick deposited the blazing sheaf
-in the load of wheat. This becoming ignited, was entirely consumed,
-together with the wagon. One of the horses, also, narrowly
-escaped perishing in the conflagration.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Many of the cases of “balkiness” are nothing but want of
-power to perform the task assigned; a necessary pause from
-temporary exhaustion. A driver who understands his business
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_29'>29</span>will give his team a breathing spell occasionally while pulling a
-heavy load. Another thing, if you find your team becoming
-exhausted and about to give out, it is well to stop them of your
-own accord; and it is well, too, to give them a few moments
-rest before encountering a peculiarly difficult part of the route.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>If you have balky horses, it is your own fault, and not the
-horse’s, for if they do not pull true there is some cause for it,
-and if you will remove the cause the effect will cease. When
-your horse balks he is excited and does not know what you
-want him to do. For instance, a young horse that has never
-been “set” in a gully with a load before, is whipped by his
-owner or driver because he does not draw the load out. The
-animal is willing to do what he can, but he does not know how
-to draw out the load. He tries and finds that it does not move,
-not knowing that a steadier and stronger pull would do it, and
-when the lash comes down upon him and he hears the yells of
-his driver he is frightened, and jumps and rears through fear
-rather than ugliness or balkiness. No better way could possibly
-be devised to make a horse balky than to beat him under
-such circumstances. When he gets a little excited, stop him
-five or ten minutes, let him become calm; go to the balky
-horse, pat him and speak gently to him, and as soon as he is
-over his excitement, he will, in nine cases out of ten, pull at the
-word. After you have gentled him a while, and his excitement
-has cooled down, take him by the bits; turn him each way a
-few minutes as far as you can; gentle him a little; unrein him;
-then step before the balky horse, and let the other start first,
-then you can take them anywhere you wish. A balky horse is
-always high spirited and starts quick; half the pull is out before
-the other starts; by standing before him the other starts first.
-By close application to this rule, you can make any balky horse
-pull. If a horse has been badly spoiled you should hitch him
-to the empty wagon, and pull it around a while on level ground;
-then put on a little load and increase it gradually, caressing as
-before, and in a short, time you can have a good work horse.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>You might as well attempt to make a horse move a three
-story building and draw it off, as to get out of a slough with a
-heavy load, when the animal has never been taught by degrees
-to draw a load out of such places. It is true that it is bad
-policy to unhitch a horse from a load under such circumstances,
-but it is far worse to beat him an hour and then have to do it.
-Our way of teaching colts is as follows: We put on light loads,
-after they are well broken to a harness, and go into bad places
-where it requires hard pulling by degrees; and the animal learns
-how to draw the load out. He reasons as a man does, thus:
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_30'>30</span>“I have been here before and got out, and I can do it again,”
-and out he goes. We add to the load one or two hundred
-pounds, and go through the same process, then wait a day or
-two and try him again, taking care that we require nothing to
-be done extra except with a lighter load. This is teaching a
-horse to have confidence in himself, which is the basis of all
-good draught horses.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A Scotch paper describes a curious case of horse management,
-and though the same treatment has been equally successful
-in other instances we are inclined to believe the true secret lies
-partly in <i>gentling</i> the animal while the preparations are being
-made. The fact related is curious and may be useful, so we
-reproduce it:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“On Saturday last a groom, mounted on a high mettled
-hunter, entered the High street of Coldstream, and, when opposite
-Sir John Majoribank’s monument, the horse began to plunge
-and rear to a fearful extent, swerving to the right and then to
-the left, but go forward he would not, nor could all the exertions
-of the groom overcome his obstinacy. The street was
-filled with people expecting to see the animal destroy himself
-on the spikes of the iron railing around the monument, when
-Mr. McDougal, saddler, walked up to the groom, and said: ‘I
-think, my man, you are not taking the proper method to make
-the horse go; allow me to show you a trick worth knowing.’
-‘Well,’ says the groom, ‘if you can make him go, it’s more
-than I can;’ when Mr. McDougal took a piece of whipcord,
-which he tied with a firm knot on the end of the animal’s ear,
-which he bent gently down, fastening the end of the string to
-the check buckle of the bridle, which done, he patted the horse’s
-neck once or twice, and said, ‘Now, let me see you go quietly
-home like a good horse,’ and, astonishing to relate, it moved off
-as gently as if nothing had happened. Mr. McDougal says he
-has seen, in London, horses which no manner of force could
-make go, while this mild treatment was always successful.”</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>HOW TO PREVENT HARNESSED HORSES FROM RUNNING AWAY.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>For the following useful suggestion we are indebted to Mr.
-Robert McClure:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“It has often occurred to our mind, on account of the many
-and destructive runaways of horses harnessed to sleighs, that
-have taken place in this city and its neighborhood the present
-winter, that some mode of training might be adopted for family
-or carriage horses, which would entirely prevent or at least
-mitigate the violence and excitement of horses that may take
-fright. A good plan, based upon our knowledge and observation
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_31'>31</span>of the excitability and nervous temperament of horses
-disposed to take fright, would be to harness them with strong
-harness to an old but stout carriage a few times before the
-sleighing season, and have them taken slowly out of the city to
-a country road, not too hard for the horses’ feet, and drive them
-at a full run or gallop for a few rods at a time. Repeating this
-several times during the drive will so accustom the horses to
-the excitement of a run in harness and the rattle of a carriage
-behind them, that it will become familiar, and when occasions
-arise, as they sometime will in all large cities, to start them to
-run, they can be at once brought up and kept under complete
-control. The training to an occasional run has familiarized
-such horses with the excitement; but conversely, once let a
-team not used to it in harness, get a start and run, the excitement
-every moment becomes greater, takes the place of animal
-instinct, and all control of them is lost—till brought up against
-some obstacle, with a general smash of all surroundings, and
-perhaps the loss of valuable and useful life. Whether the horse
-be hurt or not, they are forever of no value for family purposes,
-and the groom or coachman not unfrequently loses both situation
-and character as a driver. To familiarize your horse to an
-occasional run in harness will do them no harm; and our word
-for it, much good will be done, and safety insured.”</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>HOW TO INSTANTLY STOP RUNAWAY HORSES.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>When a Canadian family party, traveling in winter over ice
-covered rivers and swamps, is so unlucky as to cross a place
-where the horse sinks, they save him from drowning, and themselves
-from the danger of sharing the same fate, by pulling a
-rope so arranged that it chokes him. The water being thus
-prevented from entering his gullet or windpipe, he floats on the
-surface, and it only requires a long and firm pull to bring him
-to solid ground, when the rope being relaxed he quickly recovers
-his wind and is ready once more to start on his journey.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Perhaps profiting by this example, a similar means has been
-adopted with success for stopping runaway and subduing infuriated
-horses whether in riding or driving. It consists of a rein
-composed partly of thread-covered cat-gut, and partly of common
-leather, one end of which is attached to the bridle at the
-top of the horse’s head, while the other rests at the pummel of
-the saddle, or on the coach box, as the case may be. Running
-upon the cat-gut part by means of loops, is a short cross piece
-of cat-gut which rests against the windpipe of the animal, ready
-to be pulled up against it by taking hold of the nearer end of
-the rein. A quick and firm pull, to stop the breathing of the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_32'>32</span>animal, is all that is necessary to bring him to an instantaneous
-pause. He may be in a state of panic, running off with the bit
-between his teeth in spite of every ordinary means of checking
-him: but no sooner does he feel the stricture on his breathing
-than he is conscious of being outwitted and nonplussed and
-becomes instantly as quiet as a lamb; at the same time he
-keeps quite firm upon his legs—the check not being by any
-means calculated to bring him down. On the contrary, from
-the position in which it places the horse, his shoulders being
-brought up, and being pressed back upon his haunches, the
-check is, indeed, calculated to keep him up.</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='III' class='c007'>CHAPTER III.<br /> <span class='large'>ENGLISH SYSTEM OF TRAINING HUNTERS.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Owing to difference in customs of the two nations, such
-horses as the English hunters are not the most desirable
-for use in this country, and the system of training adopted to
-suit the animals to the requirements of English gentlemen, are
-seldom called into requisition here. Still, as we desire our work
-to be as complete as possible, and as the method of training is
-interesting, though it may prove useful to but few of our readers,
-we introduce it. We take this spirited description from “A
-Holiday on Horseback,” from the pen of an English writer
-whose name is not given:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“A light built, gaylooking thoroughbred was passing into a
-paddock for a lesson in jumping over a swivel bush hurdle.
-Without spur or whip, the rider—the horsebreaker’s son—rode
-the mare steadily at the fence, and she went over without touching
-a top twig, clearing nine yards in the leap. ‘The great
-thing, sir, is to bring them into workmanlike ways; not to be
-fussy and flurried at their fence, so as to take off at the right
-spot.’ Then he went on to inform us that hunters should be
-carefully handled at a very early age, if they are intended to
-become temperate and handy. They may be ridden gently by
-a light weight with good hands, at three years old, over small
-fences. At four they ought to be shown hounds, but they
-should only be allowed to follow them at a distance, after the
-fences are broken down, for if you put them to large leaps at that
-age they are apt to get alarmed and never make steady fencers
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_33'>33</span>afterward. Above all things, avoid getting them into boggy
-ditches, or riding them at brooks; but they should be practiced
-at leaping small ditches, if possible, with water in them, the
-rider facing them at a brisk gallop, for this gives a horse confidence
-and courage. The old custom of teaching colts to leap,
-standing, over a bar is now obsolete, and they are taught to
-become timber jumpers simply by taking timber as it comes
-across the country—the present rate of hounds gives no time
-for standing leaps. The circular bar, however, is not a bad
-thing if in a good place and well managed. Every description
-of fence that your hunter is likely to meet with should be placed
-within a prescribed circle on soft ground, the man who holds
-him standing on a stage in the center. Another man, following
-the colt with a whip, obliges him to clear his fences at a certain
-pace, and in a very short time a good tempered colt will go at
-his jumps with pleasure.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Here let me observe—for the conversation had ended—that
-no matter how carefully a hunter may have been trained, until
-you taste and try him in the field, it is hard to say whether the
-right stuff be in him. The best judges are often deceived by
-outsides and school performances. A few general rules may,
-however, be given, which will be found of certain application.
-In a hilly country, for instance, nothing has a chance against a
-pure thoroughbred. Lengthy horses always make the best
-jumpers, if they have good hind quarters, good loins and good
-courage. Extraordinary things have been done by such horses.
-In 1829 Dick Christian jumped thirty-three feet on King of the
-Valley; and Captain Littler’s horse, Chandler, cleared thirty-nine
-feet over a brook at Leamington. The most dangerous of
-all horses in the field is a star gazer. A hunter should carry
-his head low, as by so doing he is less liable to fall, and gives
-his rider a firmer seat. All wild horses lower their crests in
-leaping. It is, however, the peculiar excellence of going well
-through dirt which decides the real value of a horse for our
-best hunting counties. To find out this quality he must be
-ridden fair and straight. If he flinch on soft ground he is of no
-use. No matter how wide a horse may be, if he is not deep in
-the girth he cannot carry weight, and is very seldom a good
-winded horse, even under a light man. One of the best things
-that can be said of a hunter is, that at first sight he appears two
-inches lower than he really is. Short legged horses leap better
-and safer than long legged cattle, and go faster and farther
-under hard riders. Horses with straight hind legs never can
-have good mouths. He should have well placed hind legs with
-wide hips, well spread gaskins, as much as possible of the <i><span lang="la" xml:lang="la">vis a
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_34'>34</span>lergo</span></i>, well knit joints, short cannon bone, oblique pasterns and
-largish feet. The bone of a hunter’s hock cannot be too long.
-These are the points for strength and bottom.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Handsome is as handsome does,’ and an old whip once
-said to a nobleman who remarked that his staunch old horse
-who had carried him through so many troubles had an awkward
-head: ‘Never mind his ’ed, my lord; I ain’t a going to ride
-on his ’ed.’ Indeed, what is called the perfect model horse is by
-no means the best. A horse’s constitution may be too good.
-Horses of a very hard nature, and very closely ribbed up, are
-large feeders, with great barrels, and do not make brilliant
-hunters. They require so much work to keep them in place
-and wind that their legs suffer, and often give way when their
-constitution is in its prime. Horses with moderate carcasses
-last much longer, and, provided they are good feeders, are usually
-bright and lasting enough, if otherwise well shaped. Finally, a
-hunter should be well seasoned. Few five year old horses are
-fit to carry a gentleman across country; for they cannot be sufficiently
-experienced to take a straight line. About fifteen hands
-two inches is the best hight for a hunter. His action should
-be smooth, or it cannot last. The movement of the fore legs
-should be round, not high; the horse should be quick on his
-legs as well as fast.”</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='IV' class='c007'>CHAPTER IV.<br /> <span class='large'>TRICKS OF PERFORMING HORSES, AND HOW THEY ARE TAUGHT.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Horses may be taught many amusing tricks, some of
-which are really wonderful. For teaching horses tricks the
-implements known as the Rarey straps are requisite, to teach the
-animal to lie down, etc. The piebald or spotted horses are
-generally supposed by trainers to be more tractable as well as
-to possess more talent than others.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>THE SHORT AND LONG STRAPS.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>A common breaching strap is used to strap up the foot. For
-using, open the loop, keeping the buckle on the outside, put the
-loop over foot, then raise foot and pass the strap around the
-fore-arm from the inside, and buckle it tight; this holds the foot
-up firmly. The <i>long</i> strap is the one which buckles around the
-foot. To a ring in this is buckled another strap seven or eight
-feet long. This is attached to the right foot and passes under
-the girth, or over the back. Its use is to raise the foot when
-you wish to bring the horse upon his knees.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_35'>35</span>
-<img src='images/i031a.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE SHORT AND THE LONG STRAPS.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i031b.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE SHORT STRAP IN USE.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i031c.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>TEACHING THE HORSE TO LIE DOWN.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_36'>36</span>
-<img src='images/i032.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE APPLICATION OF BOTH STRAPS.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Bend his left fore leg and slip a loop over it, so that he cannot
-get it down. Then put a surcingle around his body, and
-fasten one end of the long strap around the other fore leg, just
-above the hoof. Place the other end under the surcingle, so as
-to keep the strap in the right direction; take a short hold of it
-with your right hand; stand on the left side of the horse, grasp
-the bit in your left hand, pull steadily on the strap with your
-right; bear against his shoulder till you cause him to move.
-As soon as he lifts his weight, your pulling will raise the other
-foot, and he will come on his knees. Keep the strap tight in
-your hand, so that he cannot straighten his leg if he rises up.
-Hold him in this position, and turn his head toward you; bear
-against his side with your shoulder, not hard, but with a steady,
-equal pressure, and in about ten minutes he will lie down. As
-soon as he lies down he will be completely conquered, and you
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_37'>37</span>can handle him as you please. Take off the straps, and straighten
-out his legs; rub him lightly about the face and neck with your
-hand the way the hair lies; handle all his legs, and after he has
-lain ten or twenty minutes, let him get up again. After resting
-him a short time, make him lie down as before. Repeat the
-operation three or four times, which will be sufficient for one
-lesson. Give him two lessons a day, and when you have given
-him four lessons, he will lie down on your taking hold of one foot.
-As soon as he is well broken to lie down in this way, tap him
-on the opposite leg with a whip when you take hold of his foot,
-and in a few days he will lie down from the mere motion of the
-whip.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i033a.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>BRINGING THE HORSE TO HIS KNEES.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i033b.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>PREPARING TO LIE DOWN.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Use great gentleness during the operation. Compel the horse
-to comply with your wishes, but do not frighten or excite him.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_38'>38</span>
-<img src='images/i034.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE HORSE LYING DOWN.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO TEACH A HORSE TO SIT UP.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>A common winding-up of the “grand entree” which usually
-commences the performances at most circuses, is for the horses
-of all the riders to lie down at the word of command, and at
-another command, to sit up on their haunches. The lying down
-part we have already explained; the getting up is taught by
-Jennings as follows:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Lay the animal down as previously directed, having a collar
-upon him; place a hobble or strap, with a ring in it, around
-each hind foot; take a pair of ordinary driving lines, pass the
-buckle end through the collar back to the ring in the hobble,
-and buckle them; pull the feet up toward the shoulders, and
-carry the lines back to the hind quarters, hold them firmly in
-one hand, or give them to an assistant. Have a bridle with a
-long rein upon the animal; take the rein in your hand, stand
-upon the tail, and pull upon the bridle rein, keeping the lines
-firm at the same time; this brings him up in front, and prevents
-his getting his hind feet back far enough to rise upon them,
-they being drawn forward and securely held by the lines.”</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>KICKING AT WORD OF COMMAND.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>Jennings gives the following instructions for teaching horses
-a very common trick performed at circus exhibitions:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Care must be taken in teaching this trick, that you have a
-horse not predisposed to vicious propensities, or you may make
-a confirmed kicker; and then you will have the habit to break-up.
-A horse of a mild disposition may be taught to perform
-thus without the risk of his becoming a kicker. I have taught
-one of my ponies to kick when I desire him to do so, and he
-cannot be made to kick unless the whip is used lightly upon his
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_39'>39</span>hind parts. Having selected your animal, take a pin in your
-right hand, prick the near hind leg with it and say, ‘Kick with the
-left foot;’ the animal soon learns to obey. Then proceed with
-the opposite leg in the same manner. After the horse will kick,
-with either foot, by a motion of the hand without pricking him
-you will stand off a short distance, with a long whip in your
-hand; touch the near hind foot and say, ‘Kick with the left foot;’
-then proceed in the same manner with the right foot. By proceeding
-thus once a day the animal will soon learn to do his part
-very nicely.”</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TALKING HORSES.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>If neatly managed one of the most “taking” performances
-of the “arena” is the answering of questions by the horse.
-Yankee Robinson has a very fine animal, who replies to his
-master’s interrogations with much <i>seeming</i> judiciousness.
-Horses may be taught to shake and nod their heads as negative
-or affirmative replies, in either of two ways. The first method
-of training is this: Take your position at the horse’s head
-with a pin in your hand. Gently prick the animal’s breast.
-The horse bobs his head, just as he would had a fly alighted on
-the spot. Repeat the operation several times, each time caressing
-him, and perhaps rewarding him with a bit of apple occasionally.
-He will soon learn to nod his head on merely having
-the hand pointed toward his breast, or he may be trained to do
-the same by a motion of the foot. To teach the horse to shake
-his head it is only necessary to prick him slightly anywhere
-along the mane or over the withers. After a little teaching he
-will do so on your raising your hand to your head, a motion
-whose connection with the horse’s action will scarcely be suspected
-by the audience.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The second method is by pricking his breast at the same
-moment that you say “yes,” or any other particular word;
-and by pricking his withers at the same time you say the word
-“no.” He will soon learn to make the desired motion on hearing
-the word, even though no motion whatever is made. When
-exhibiting, the questions should be asked first, and immediately
-after the signal given to the horse. He, of course, knows
-nothing of the question, but obeys a definite command, just as
-he would if ordered to “back” or “whoa.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Madame Tournaire, who performed her horse by the first method,
-had a way of coquettishly toying with her whip, and would
-give the horse the requisite signals by what the public imagined
-to be a mere display of feminine grace.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Where the horse obeys a <i>word</i>, that word must be incorporated
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_40'>40</span>into the question asked, in such a way as to attract his
-attention. If used too near the commencement of the sentence
-he will reply before the question is out of your mouth. It is
-not necessary to use the <i>exact</i> word that he “works” by, provided
-it sounds to him like it; thus, Yankee Robinson says to
-his horse during the performance, “I guess you’re as handsome
-a fellow as these ladies and gentlemen ever saw—don’t you
-<i>guess</i> so?” The horse nods his head at the emphasized word
-“guess,” supposing it to be his command “yes.” The next
-question, perhaps, is, “But others <i>know</i> the most?” In this
-case the horse, not being posted on Webster, and being guided
-by the sound, gives his head a negative shake, considering “no”
-and “know” synonymous.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i036.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>PERFORMING PONIES.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TEACHING HORSES TO JUMP.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>Colts should not be trained in jumping until at least four
-years old. Until this age the muscles and sinews are too
-pliable, and there is danger of the animal being strained. It is
-better never to urge a horse to attempt a leap which he cannot
-readily accomplish, for severe injury might result from his
-striking his feet, besides any failure to perform the leap will
-discourage him.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The bar should at first be placed very low and only raised
-very gradually. About knee high or less will do to commence
-with. Commence the instructions by letting one man lead the
-colt, while another man follows with a whip. The former
-walks over the bar encouraging the colt with his voice to follow.
-The man with the whip is only to prevent the horse backing,
-the whip should never be applied unless the animal is positively
-restive. With a little coaxing he will soon go over, and having
-once done so, he will readily repeat it. A few pieces of apple
-may be advantageously used to induce him to leap the bar, and
-to reward him for doing so. By using the word “hip” or any
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_41'>41</span>other as he jumps, he may be taught to make the leap on hearing
-it. This is the common method for horses in the ring.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The first lesson should be confined to the standing or walking
-leap, and if the horse is led half a dozen times over in the manner
-described this will suffice for the first day. The next day
-he may be trotted up to it, or more lessons may be devoted to
-teaching him to leap at command. With each succeeding lesson
-the bar may be raised until it is as high as the horse’s
-breast, but beyond this there is no necessity with common animals
-intended merely for private riding. Neither should the
-horse be wearied and disgusted with too long lessons. When perfect
-in his lessons a boy may be placed upon his back to ride
-him over. The boy must be a good rider, for should the horse
-stop suddenly at the bar and throw his rider the maneuver will
-be repeated. A sack containing a couple of bushels of corn is
-sometimes used instead of the boy, but the boy is better.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO MAKE A HORSE STAND ERECT.</h3>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i037.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>STANDING ERECT.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>To make a horse stand upon his hind feet it is only necessary
-to compel him to rear up, and then to keep him in that position
-by gently striking him with the whip either under the fore-arm
-or under the chin. At first it will be necessary to allow him to
-resume his natural position after standing erect for a moment or
-two, but in a little while he will learn to keep his balance for a
-considerable time. Care should be taken not to excite or keep
-him in the erect position too long at first. There is also some
-danger of his falling over backward if too urgently pressed.
-Ponies may be placed upon their hind feet by lifting them up
-by the reins, taking hold under the chin close to the bit. By
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_42'>42</span>giving the command, “Erect up,” when teaching the animal to
-take the required position, he may be taught to do so at this
-command, or he will soon learn to stand up by merely being
-tapped lightly under the chin. Now give him a few pieces of
-apple, and by holding out pieces of apple or other “horse”
-dainties, you may teach him to follow you walking erect.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO “PIROUETTE.”</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>“Pirouetting” consists merely in the horse turning around
-while standing erect upon his hind feet. He may be taught to
-do this very easily, either by coaxing him to turn by the use of
-pieces of apple, or by gentle taps upon the cheek. He soon
-learns to turn at a circular sweep of the whip or at the command
-to “Pirouette.” This action is the same as is made use of
-when a horse is supposed to “waltz.”</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>THE PEDESTAL.</h3>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i038.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>PEDESTAL TRICK.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>One of the most common tricks displayed in circuses, and one
-which is usually hailed with applause, is what is termed the
-“pedestal” trick. A stout platform is used, to which is attached
-a wooden “drum” some two feet in hight, out of which projects
-a wooden rod or post at a slight angle. The horse first
-steps upon the platform, then places one fore foot upon the
-drum, and lastly places his other fore foot upon the point of the
-projecting post. In this position a handsome animal forms a
-really beautiful picture, and the effect is sometimes enhanced
-by having a number of men raise the platform upon their
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_43'>43</span>shoulders, and bear the horse, high up above the heads of the
-spectators, like some equestrian statue, around the ring.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To teach this trick some patience is necessary but the method
-is quite simple. The horse is first led upon the platform several
-times, being allowed to remain a moment or more each time.
-He will soon understand when brought into the vicinity of the
-platform that he is to take his position upon it. Now compel
-him to raise his foot, and as he attempts to put it down
-again, guide it with your hand to the required position upon the
-drum. After a few times he will place it upon the drum of his
-own accord on being made to raise it. Then in the same manner
-make him raise the other foot and place it upon the post.
-This is the most difficult part of the performance on account of
-the post presenting only a slight foothold, and the horse having
-only limited power to guide his foot to this position; it is also
-quite difficult to make the hoof retain its hold even after the right
-position is gained. After the horse thoroughly understands
-what is wanted of him he will go through the performance without
-prompting, for the sight of the platform suggests to him the
-desired actions. The “carrying around” part is, of course,
-strictly a ring performance which few persons would care to
-undertake for private amusement, but if the horse is gentle and
-has been taught to have entire confidence in his master, and to
-obey him implicitly, there is little difficulty in this part of the
-exhibition if done with care.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO TEACH A HORSE TO KISS.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>Give the horse a few pieces of apple from your hand, then
-place a piece between your teeth, letting it project so that the
-horse can readily seize it. When he has become used to taking
-the apple in this way, say, “Kiss,” or “Kiss me,” to him
-each time before putting the apple in your mouth, and he will
-by and by put his mouth to your lips at this command. In
-every case he should be rewarded by a piece of apple, for, to
-him, “kiss me” means apple, and if he is deceived in getting
-it he will not so readily obey.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO MAKE A HORSE FETCH AND CARRY.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>For this purpose a small basket or some light article which
-he can easily seize with his mouth, should be used. Place the
-handle in his mouth and shut his mouth upon it. Should he
-drop it when you remove your hand, speak sharply to him, and
-replace it in his mouth. When he retains it you are to let it
-remain a few moments, then remove it, pat him, speak encouragingly
-to him, and reward him. In a short time offer it to
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_44'>44</span>him again saying, “Take it,” and he will probably do so; if not
-place it his mouth and repeat the course already described.
-When he has learned to take the basket on its being offered,
-let him follow you around with it in his mouth; then let some
-one else give it to him while you stand at a distance; now call
-him toward you and reward him for bringing it to you. He
-will thus learn in a short time to bring you any article given
-him. After this, place the basket upon the ground, call his attention
-to it, order him to “take it,” and he probably will obey,
-if not, place it in his mouth and repeat the instruction until he
-will pick it up from the ground. Then a handkerchief or other
-article may be substituted for the basket, which articles he will
-soon understand are to be picked up also. He will soon learn
-to pick up anything you may drop in his presence, or to seize
-hold of any article that may be offered him, and this latter act
-may be applied to many tricks, as hereafter described.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>FINDING A HIDDEN HANDKERCHIEF.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>Having taught the horse to pick up any article dropped in
-his presence, take a handkerchief and cover it partially with
-loose earth, leaving it sufficiently exposed for him to readily
-seize it. Repeat the operation, each time covering the handkerchief
-more and more completely until it is entirely concealed.
-He will by this means be led to look for it even when it is entirely
-covered up. An assistant may now hold his hands over
-the horse’s eyes while the handkerchief is being concealed.
-Before an audience this adds to the credit of the performance,
-but as the handkerchief is hidden in nearly the same place, the
-horse knows where to look for it and will soon unearth it.
-Even when hidden at the option of the spectator it is easy to
-indicate to the horse where to look, by a signal, or his sense of
-smell will lead him to the spot. Oil of rhodium is said by some to
-be employed in this trick, to guide the animal to the hidden
-article. This may be true in some cases but the horse can so
-easily be taught to accomplish the thing desired without its use
-that we doubt its being used to any considerable extent.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Another plan adopted for teaching this trick is the following:
-Spread on the sawdust a white cloth containing a liberal supply
-of oats, lead the animal around the ring and let him take some of
-the oats. This is lesson first; its object being to fix in the
-horse’s mind a connection between the cloth and the oats. The
-march around the circle being once or twice repeated, he stops
-at the handkerchief as a matter of course. By dint of practice,
-say in a couple of weeks, he will learn to stop as readily in a
-trot or a gallop as in a walk. After a time the handkerchief
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_45'>45</span>must be doubled over and tied in a knot; the animal shakes it
-to get at the grain, but not succeeding, lifts it from the ground,
-which is just the thing wanted. When the horse has done
-this a few times, and finds that though he can shake nothing
-out he will receive a handful of oats as a reward, he may be
-trusted to perform in public.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO SELECT A CHOSEN CARD.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>In performing this trick in public one of the audience is
-allowed to choose a card from the pack, and this card, with
-several others is thrown on the ground. The horse is then
-asked by his master to select the chosen card from among them,
-and to give it to the person who chose it. This sounds like
-quite a difficult feat, especially, as is usually the case, if he has
-had his eyes blindfolded while the selection of the card was
-being made.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Having taught the horse to find and pick up the handkerchief
-it is very easy to substitute any other article in its place.
-If a card should be substituted it would be picked up just as anything
-else would be. The main difficulty is to teach the horse to
-pick the one desired from among the others, and that one only.
-To do this, spread half a dozen cards upon the ground at intervals
-of about ten feet. Let the horse go to one end of this line
-of cards. He will naturally stop at the first one he comes to,
-and, if left to himself, will pick it up. Instead of allowing him
-to do this, start him ahead with the voice using the term “Get
-up,” or any other which he has been taught means “go ahead.”
-Do this until he reaches the card which you desire him to pick
-up, at this you must remain silent unless he is about to pass it
-by like the former ones, in which case you say “Whoa,” and
-keep him standing before it until he picks it up. When he
-does this, reward him and speak encouragingly to him, that he
-may know he has done what you wished. If you make a practice
-of speaking to him when he stops at the wrong cards, and of
-keeping silent when he reaches the right one he will soon come
-to understand that “silence gives consent,” and that <i>that</i> is the
-proper card to select. The order in which the chosen card is
-placed in the row should be varied so that the horse may not
-learn to select the card by its <i>position</i> instead of obeying your
-signal. This enables you to let your auditors place the cards
-in any position or order their fancy may dictate without interfering
-at all with the successful “working” of the horse.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>After he has learned to select the desired card without hesitation,
-he must be so taught that he will hand it to the person
-who may have selected it, when he comes to perform in public.
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_46'>46</span>To teach him this, have an assistant stationed at some distance
-from you, and when the horse comes to you with the card,
-instead of taking it from him as you have been accustomed to
-do, turn his head in the direction of your assistant and start
-him up. He will go to the assistant if the latter holds out his
-hand, and, perhaps, whistles to him. Pretty soon the whistling
-may be dispensed with, and he will carry the card in any direction
-indicated in search of some one to receive it. When he
-comes to perform in the ring he will go around the edge looking
-for somebody to whom he may relinquish the card. The proper
-person will probably hold out his hand to take it, but a
-hundred others will quite as certainly do the same thing. Now
-if the horse selects the right person in spite of the other claimants
-to lead him astray, a round of applause is pretty sure to
-crown his success. To insure this he should be taught to relinquish
-the card at some particular signal given by the trainer.
-A cough will answer, or any <i>word</i> which can be incorporated into
-a sentence addressed to him, without being detected by the
-audience. We have given sufficient instruction on this point
-in preceding pages, we believe, to enable the trainer to use his
-own discretion as to the manner of associating the signal with
-the giving-up of the card, in the horse’s mind.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO FIRE OFF A PISTOL.</h3>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i042.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>FIRING OFF THE PISTOL.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>In performing this trick the pistol (unloaded) should be firmly
-secured to a post or some other convenient support, as high as
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_47'>47</span>the horse can conveniently reach. To the trigger attach a
-small wisp of hay by a string, so arranged that by pulling at
-the hay the pistol will go off. Lead the horse up to this, that
-the savory morsel may attract his attention. He will probably
-pull at the hay, and in his efforts to get it, will pull the trigger.
-Let him eat the hay, and repeat the operation several times,
-patting and speaking kindly to him each time. Now attach a
-piece of rag to the trigger instead of the hay; show it to him
-and induce him to take hold of it. Every time he pulls at it,
-and makes the hammer click, reward him with a piece of apple.
-When he has become used to pulling the rag when it is shown
-him, the pistol may be capped. The explosion of the cap may
-startle him somewhat at first; but gentle treatment and a little
-encouragement will soon banish his fears, especially if the noise
-of the explosion be only slight, which would be desirable.
-When he will snap caps without hesitation a small charge of
-powder may be tried. A heavy charge only makes a nuisance
-of the trick, and should only be used when displaying before
-an audience; even then the desirableness of such a proceeding
-is very questionable.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO TEACH A HORSE TO DANCE.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>A horse may be taught to dance thus: Fasten the animal
-with two side-reins between the posts supporting the leaping
-bar. Take a whip, and, as the music plays, gently touch
-him with it, using the “jik, jik,” of the groom as you go on.
-The horse being tied to the posts can move neither backward nor
-forward, but he will be induced to lift his legs and thereby gain
-the rudimentary movement of his lesson. After a while the
-teacher must mount on his back; the horse being fastened by
-the side reins. Just when he is to raise his leg, a gentle pull
-must be given to the rein at the proper side to help the movement.
-In course of time the reins must be loosened, and the
-horse, if tolerably ready, will soon learn to mark time, quick or
-slow, in answer merely to a slight jerk of the bridle. The rider
-must then dismount, and coming before the horse, teach him to
-dance, or keep time, with a wave of the hand, or by a pat on the
-foot which he is wanted to lift.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It may be remarked here that, though the dancing horses at
-the circuses appear to keep time with the music of the band, it
-is really, in most cases, the band that accommodates its music
-to the movements of the horse.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO EAT AT TABLE.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>An amusing scene often enacted in the ring is to have a horse
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_48'>48</span>seated on his haunches before a table, while the clown obsequiously
-serves him. A bell is attached to the table, so arranged
-that the horse can ring it by pulling at a bit of rag, and as the
-horse is almost continually ringing the bell, and the clown makes
-apparently frantic efforts to answer this summons each time,
-while bringing in plates, etc., a vast amount of laughter is
-usually created. The same instructions which we have given
-in previous pages relative to sitting down, firing off the pistol,
-etc., will apply to this trick. It is usual, when the table is
-finally set, for the clown to seat himself opposite the horse and
-pretend to share his meal. As the food commonly consists of
-hay pies, with brown paper crusts, the actual eating, we presume,
-is generally confined to the horse, but the fun is much
-increased by the clown taking a huge mouthful of hay, as
-though intensely hungry, and the horse then snatching it from
-his mouth, and devouring it himself. This latter feat is a
-mere modification of the kissing trick, where he takes the piece
-of apple from the trainer’s mouth.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i044.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>AN EQUESTRIAN EPICURE.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO TURN A HAND ORGAN.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>This feat may be easily accomplished by the application of the
-plan already described, which we may term the “pistol principle.”
-After the horse has learned to take hold readily of anything
-offered to him, which knowledge he will have acquired if
-he has already learned to perform the tricks heretofore mentioned,
-the only additional instruction necessary will be to
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_49'>49</span>initiate him into the mysteries of <i>turning</i> the handle. When
-he has taken hold of the handle, gently move his head so as to
-produce the desired motion. If, when you let go of his head,
-he ceases the motion, speak sharply to him and put his head
-again in motion. With almost any horse a few lessons, and
-judicious rewards when he does what is required, will accomplish
-the object, and he will soon both be able and willing to
-grind out Old Dog Tray, or Norma, if not in exact time at least
-with as much correctness as many performers on this instrument.
-Some time since there was a horse connected with Franconi’s
-circus in Paris, whose education had progressed finely
-until the organ was reached, as it was in due course of time;
-this appeared to be the stumbling block in his progress.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i045.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE HAND ORGAN PERFORMANCE.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>It seems that the horse in question had already, under the
-lessons of his master, developed an unusual degree of intelligence,
-his eyes in particular becoming so full of expression that
-one could hardly doubt that he understood very much of what
-was said to him.  His master had great hopes of him; he had
-been in training only a year, and he had already learned to lie
-down and get up as ordered, to enact the dead horse, to fire a
-pistol, and to give whichever of his fore hoofs was asked for.
-At length the professor began the task of teaching this promising
-pupil to turn a barrel organ; but either this particular
-species of exercise was repugnant to his tastes, or the sound of
-the organ was disagreeable to his ears. Certain it was that the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_50'>50</span>animal, usually so docile, was resolute in his refusal to touch
-the handle of the barrel organ. His preceptor labored at this
-point for a month without being able to vanquish the repugnance
-of the horse for the object so constantly presented to his
-attention. Coaxing, caresses, and the whip were employed in
-turn, and equally without success. On these occasions the
-horse’s eyes expressed as clearly as though he had spoken it
-in so many words the absolute determination not to touch the
-handle of the organ. The trainer, though naturally of a violent
-temper, was always patient and gentle with his equine pupil.
-Whenever he felt that the obstinacy of the horse was on the
-point of getting the better of his apparent calmness, he would
-leave the stable to give vent to his irritation out of the sight or
-hearing of the animal. To those who prophesied that the horse
-would never turn the handle of the organ, he replied, “He
-shall turn or die.” At length, perceiving that he made no progress
-in the work of vanquishing the animal’s obstinacy, he
-caused the windows of the stable to be stuffed with hay and
-then boarded over, so that not a ray of light was visible, and a
-couple of men, hired for the purpose, beat a drum incessantly
-beside the animal’s stall, relieving one another at stated intervals.
-The struggle was continued for four days and nights,
-during which the professor returned to the charge once every
-hour, presenting the handle of the organ to his refractory pupil,
-renewing his command to the latter to take hold of it.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The neighborhood was beginning to threaten the trainer with
-a summons before the police court, to answer to the charge of
-disturbing its slumbers with the perpetual beating of the horrible
-drum, which the unfortunate horse, comprehending at last
-that there was no other chance of deliverance left to him, suddenly
-seized the handle of the organ with his teeth and turned
-with all the little strength that was left to him. Daylight was
-at once restored to the stable, the drummers were dismissed,
-all possible caresses and the finest oats were lavished on the
-now docile scholar, who never forgot the terrible lesson of his
-four days struggle, but, whatever may have been the sentiments
-with which he regarded the operation, never failed vigorously
-to turn the handle of the barrel organ whenever the word of
-command was given.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO FEIGN LAMENESS.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>To teach a horse this trick requires a greater decree of labor
-and perseverance than is necessary to instruct him in almost
-any other. So wearisome is the task, and so long is the time
-required in its accomplishment, that in ordinary cases it is not
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_51'>51</span>worth attempting. We propose, however, in this little work
-to tell all that there is to be told about our subject, even though
-most of our readers should find many things impracticable in
-their own cases; and it is well worth while to explain all these
-matters though it be only to gratify the curiosity which is very
-naturally felt. An uninitiated person would probably be entirely
-at a loss how to set about accomplishing this feat, and it is
-doubtful whether he would succeed in discovering the secret of
-it without assistance. The mystery is not such a very great
-matter after all, and may be disclosed in a few words.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>If you observe a really lame horse—if you haven’t any in your
-neighborhood just visit New York and you will find some beautiful
-specimens of the article—you will perceive that there is a
-constant jerking or bobbing of his head, caused by his lowering
-it as he treads upon the lame foot and raising it as he raises the
-foot again. Now the <i>appearance</i> of lameness is caused just as
-much by the motion of the head as anything else, and a really
-sound horse, if he bobbed his head as he lowered and raised
-a particular foot, would appear lame; in fact he would actually
-go lame with this foot because the motion of his head would
-compel him to tread more lightly on that than he did on the
-others, exactly as in the case of the bona fide lameness. This
-is the secret, and the trainer’s efforts are directed to producing
-this motion of the head. To make a horse bob his head is a
-trifling matter, but to make him do so every time he treads on
-one particular foot, and to do so at the right moment, without
-hesitation or mistake, requires many weary lessons, and a stock
-of patience equal to that popularly supposed to have been possessed
-by the ancient Job.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Commence by taking the horse by the bridle, close to his
-mouth, and walking him very slowly. Watch the foot with which
-you desire him to go lame, and each time that it comes that
-foot’s turn to step, press the horse’s head gently upward as he
-raises his foot, and downward as he again places it on the
-ground. Let your motions be simultaneous with the movement
-of the foot, proceeding so slowly that there is no danger of
-becoming confused. By-and-by you may release your hold of
-the bridle and make the motion with your hand, which he will
-soon obey. You may then accompany the motion by any sound
-or word of command, and he will learn finally to make the motion
-on hearing this sound.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A correspondent of an English journal lately described a
-pony in his possession who in some way had picked up a
-knowledge of this trick and applied it very acutely to his own
-advantage. The gentleman thus describes the proceedings of
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_52'>52</span>the animal: “Whenever the pony had been turned out to
-graze and was afterward brought up to be hitched into the carriage,
-it invariably turned lame after going a few yards—so lame
-in fact that I frequently turned back, being ashamed to drive
-an animal in such apparent pain; I say apparent, because no
-sooner had the pony been relieved of its harness than it used to
-canter around. The same pony when brought from the stable
-would go perfectly well as long as it wished, but when I drove
-it in any direction contrary to its inclination it became lame
-immediately; as soon as its head was turned homeward the
-lameness entirely disappeared.”</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO TEACH A HORSE TO WALK OVER YOU.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>This trick is sometimes exhibited by persons desirous of displaying
-either their own courage or the docility of their horses.
-There is a natural aversion felt by horses, and indeed by most
-animals, to treading on a living object. Few horses will, of
-their own accord, unless they are under excitement, trample
-upon a child who may chance to be in the way. Many instances
-are related of horses lifting infants from their pathway and
-gently putting them down on one side, where they were out of
-danger. It is therefore pretty safe to allow your horse to step
-over you, while you lie upon the ground. To insure against
-accidents, however, a little preliminary training is advisable.
-First, let an assistant lead the horse over your legs while you
-are seated upon the ground with those members extended.
-Then, after a few repetitions, lie down at full length and let the
-assistant lead the horse over you in various directions. Very
-soon the horse may be entrusted to walk over you, merely
-guided by the snapping of your fingers in the direction you
-desire him to go.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>ORDINARY CIRCUS HORSES.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>The common horses ridden by circus performers require some
-training before they are available in the “circle,” though it is
-slight compared with the instructions of the “trick” horses.
-The main thing is to break them to trot evenly and steadily
-around the ring. They may be taught this in an open field by
-attaching a line to the nose piece of the halter, which line the
-trainer holds in his left hand while in his right he has a long
-whip. Starting the horse, the trainer turns slowly as the horse
-goes around; the line keeps the horse from going away from
-the trainer in any direction and so forces him to go in a circle;
-the whip is used to keep him at the proper distance from the
-man, and so preserve always the same sized circle. The whip
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_53'>53</span>should be held on a level with the horse’s shoulder and should
-be moved so as to accompany him around. Subsequently the
-line may be removed and the horse will still follow the circle
-pointed out by the whip, and increase or abate his speed to
-correspond with its movements. The horse is then ready for
-the rehearsals of the rider, and soon learns to preserve his pace
-unbroken, regardless of the movements of the man upon his back.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i049.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>BREAKING HORSE FOR THE “CIRCLE.”</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='V' class='c007'>CHAPTER V.<br /> <span class='large'>THEATRICAL HORSES AND THE HORSE DRAMA.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>The exact date at which horses were introduced upon the
-stage we are unable to state. It is the custom with many
-writers to trace everything back to the ancient Greeks or Romans
-and build up their subject from this classic foundation;
-perhaps we might be able to do likewise were we to try, but
-we prefer to be excused. Certain it is that for many years such
-dramas as Mazeppa, Herne the Hunter, Putnam, and others of a
-certain kind have maintained a steady popularity. At first the
-characters of the heroes in these pieces were performed by
-males, and their popularity depended upon the beauty and spirit
-of the horse, the daring of the rider, and the general excellence
-of the drama—combats, processions, and startling effects being
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_54'>54</span>always taking ingredients. By-and-by, however, an adventurous
-rider of the other sex entered the lists in competition with the
-gentlemen. Her success inspired others to follow her example,
-until a dozen or more actresses were found performing the
-various rôles of the “horse drama.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In all these pieces the principal attraction, next to the lady
-rider, is the performance of the horse, which, with very little
-variation, is generally the same in all. At the back of the
-stage, crossing and re-crossing it, and rising higher and higher
-at quite a steep inclination, is a plank gangway, some two or
-three feet wide. This is technically termed the “run,” and is
-supported by stout scaffolding, which is hidden by the scenery.
-At each turn, which is concealed by the “wings,” is
-a sort of platform to enable the horse to turn and to get a fair
-position for making the next rush across. The scenery is
-usually painted to represent mountains, and the canvas which
-conceals the run is painted to resemble rocks. Ravines and
-other results of the skillful scene painter’s talents often add to
-the seeming danger of the pass. Usually a series of different
-plays are produced during the engagement of the horse and
-rider, and the same run serves to represent the mountains of
-Tartary in Mazeppa, the Yankee hills in Putnam, or the natural
-elevations of any other portion of the world in which the scenes
-of any particular play may chance to be located. At the proper
-moment the horse dashes over precipices, rushing torrents,
-or fearful mountain gorges, (all canvas of course), with his
-rider astride his back, or strapped upon the “untamed steed,”
-as the stage business may require. To enable the horse to
-climb or descend the run without slipping, small pieces of
-sharpened steel are screwed into his shoes previous to his coming
-upon the stage. When it is a man who is strapped upon
-the horse he is usually merely secured by the waist, he holding
-the girth firmly with his hands. When a woman performs the
-part it is customary to secure her ankles as well, mainly for the
-purpose of keeping her <i>on top</i> of the horse should he by any
-accident fall. In playing Mazeppa the rider is utterly helpless,
-and without this precaution serious and even fatal injuries
-might be received. The gentlemen consider their muscle sufficient
-to enable them to dispense with this care. Some years
-ago a popular equestrian actress while performing in a western
-city met with a fearful accident from having one of her feet
-free in order that she might tickle the horse with her spur, to
-make him prance and curvette before the audience. On leaving
-the stage the horse stumbled over some stray scenery or other
-obstacle, and fell. Had the rider been lashed according to custom
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_55'>55</span>on <i>top</i> of the horse the only danger would have been the
-risk of striking against some projection, for the horse could
-not fall upon his back. As it was, her leg slipped under the
-horse as he fell, and his weight coming suddenly upon it, the
-thigh was broken. It is said that as she was conveyed to the
-boat the horse followed with every appearance of sorrow,
-whinnying softly, as though striving to express his sympathy.
-Many months after the accident, when the rider mounted him
-for practice previous to resuming her profession, an eye-witness
-related that it was really wonderful to see how gentle were all
-the horse’s movements, and how, of his own accord, he would
-check himself whenever his motion extorted the slightest cry of
-pain, almost suppressed though it was, from his rider.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In these plays very little training is required by the horse.
-After the ordinary breaking he is frequently exercised in going
-over the run. Owing to the restricted space it is very difficult
-for the horse to display any degree of speed, and as this is the
-main thing to be accomplished, he is therefore taught to start
-<i>instantly</i> at a rate which an ordinary horse could not by any
-means attain within the prescribed limits. We have seen Mazeppa
-played where the stage was so small that while the horse’s
-tail was against the wall of the theater his nose was barely
-prevented protruding beyond the scenes, previous to his starting
-to rush before the audience, from an imaginary journey of some
-score of miles. When he <i>did</i> come before the public it was difficult
-for them to see the whole of him at one time even with
-the scenes run back as far as possible. How the poor animal
-managed to travel over the diminutive run which was provided
-we cannot imagine, and yet the sight from the body of the
-theater was quite respectable.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>After ascending the run the horse and rider must remain high
-up in the lofty region of the “floats” until a change of scene
-permits them to descend unobserved, or the play requires their
-descent in public. A perilous, and consequently attractive,
-feat has been introduced into this play by one or two unusually
-reckless and daring riders, consisting of an extension of the run
-around the gallery of the theatre. Over this narrow road above
-the heads of the spectators, some hundred feet or more from the
-ground, amid the glare or the lights, the banging of the orchestra,
-and the thunders of the multitude, dashes the horse, bearing
-in triumph “the sensation rider of the world.” A single misstep,
-the displacement of a single plank in that frail support,
-and horse and rider would lie a mangled mass below. And this
-is the very reason the house is jammed with eager throngs—not
-that they wish the rider to meet the horrible death thus
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_56'>56</span>courted night after night, but it is certainly this <i>possibility</i>
-which renders the performance so attractive. Playing Mazeppa
-is not always the hight of felicity.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>There is a story told of a horse who probably never had the
-honor of figuring on either posters or play bills, which we think
-may be appropriately recorded here. A traveler on a dark
-night presented himself at the door of a country inn, and
-demanded lodging. The landlord, after some general remarks,
-suddenly turned pale and asked his guest by what road he had
-come. Upon being informed he almost fainted with terror. On
-examination in the morning it was found that the horse ridden by
-the traveler had walked with safety the string piece of a long
-bridge, and maintained his footing on the single extended timber,
-scarcely a foot wide. The planks of the bridge had been
-torn up for repairs the day previous; a misstep of the sure
-footed animal would have precipitated himself and rider into a
-chasm a hundred feet below.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In Mazeppa and similar plays the horse is “worked” by his
-trainer or master who comes on the stage attired as one of the
-retinue or attendants. In other pieces the rider himself manages
-the horse. These horses are seldom used for any other purpose,
-as ordinary riding or driving would make their mouths hard
-and render them less easily controlled upon the stage. In the
-summer their shoes are taken off and they are allowed a holiday
-in the country pastures. Mr. Collins, an actor of considerable
-celebrity who played successfully all the range of equestrian
-characters, and who trained several of the most popular “star”
-horses, had a magnificent stallion of large size which was probably
-the handsomest horse in the profession. He was a trifle
-too large to display his speed to the best advantage in the theater,
-but on the road, where Mr. C. occasionally displayed his
-points, there were few animals who could contest the palm with
-him for speed. He was a fiery fellow, and if annoyed would bite
-his tormentor fiercely, and few cared to excite his anger. This
-was made a “point” of on the stage, Mr. C. plaguing him a
-little unnoticed by the public, and the spirit the horse displayed
-always “took” with the audience. Mr. C., however, found it
-necessary to keep out of reach of the animal’s teeth, or even <i>his</i>
-influence over the horse might not have preserved him from an
-uncomfortable nip.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Years ago when horse dramas reigned in the Broadway theaters,
-as well as in the less aristocratic locality of the Bowery,
-an enterprising manager determined to bring out Herne the
-Hunter, “in the highest style of the art.” A number of horses,
-circus men and innumerable supernumeraries were engaged, and
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_57'>57</span>the piece produced under the most <i>horse-piece-cious</i> circumstances.
-The eventful night arrived, the house was crammed.
-The play progressed, people came on and off the stage, talked,
-raced, shouted, went through traps, climbed canvas rocks, and
-indulged in all the customary motions of a grand “spectacle.”
-There has always been a natural feud between actors and circus
-folks. The ring people despise those who can only “cackle,”
-(flash term for talk), while the stage fellows say that folks who
-travel on their shape, and have no brains to back them up, are
-contemptible. In those days there was even less good feeling
-between the two professions than at present. The supes aspiring
-to the dignity of “the stage” were more intense in their
-antipathy to the riders than were the actors themselves, and
-being always ready for a lark, some of them procured a lot of a
-peculiar kind of tinder which is readily lighted and could be
-surreptitiously blown into a horse’s nostrils without the culprit
-being detected. Suddenly in the midst of the performance
-the horses became restive, and in a moment became unmanageable.
-Some reared and kicked, some broke through the
-stage, while others, trampling the foot lights under foot,
-plunged into the orchestra. All was confusion. An actor
-advances to the foot lights and assures the audience that they
-need feel no alarm—nothing of importance is amiss—it is “all
-right.” At this very moment two horses are murdering their
-riders in the orchestra. One of the men, literally impaled upon
-the spikes around the railing, presents a sickening, horrifying,
-spectacle as he writhes in his death agony. Of course the play
-was not concluded; the audience departed shocked at the awful
-sight they had witnessed, and the supes, who had intended no
-farther harm than a little amusement at the expense of the
-circus men, now bitterly repented their thoughtless folly.
-They did what they could to atone for trick by making up a
-purse for the benefit of the families of the principal victims of
-the unfortunate affair, but the horse drama had received its death
-blow on Broadway.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i053.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_58'>58</span>
-  <h2 id='VI' class='c007'>CHAPTER VI.<br /> <span class='large'>BREAKING AND TRAINING MULES—PERFORMING AND “COMIC” MULES.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Mules appear fated to labor under an unfavorable and
-unenviable reputation. Not only has that rather objectionable
-quality of stubbornness been supposed to exist in their
-disposition to such an undue degree as to give rise to the saying,
-“as stubborn as a mule,” but this general reputation for intelligence
-is by no means first rate. That the mule is by nature
-inclined to be rather stubborn is undoubtedly true, but it is
-very questionable whether the wonderful displays of this quality
-sometimes met with, are not actually as much due to the very
-measures adopted to overcome the fault as to the natural disposition
-of the animal. With proper treatment and a little judicious
-training the objectionable features in a mule’s disposition
-might be easily remedied.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i054.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>A LAZY CURE FOR LAZINESS.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_59'>59</span>There is a clever invention attributed to a certain lazy Hindoo,
-for overcoming the proverbial laziness of the mule. It appears
-that the man was employed to oversee a mule working one of
-those primitive mills in use to this day in India. The man
-seems to have been slightly inclined toward laziness himself,
-and was anxious to contrive some plan which would enable him
-to keep the mule in motion and monopolize all the indolence
-himself. This he at last accomplished with the aid of a clever
-device, shown in the accompanying illustration, which explains
-itself. We give it as a curiosity in the “art of training animals,”
-without vouching for its strict fidelity to the truth.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The following instructions are given by Mr. Riley, an experienced
-authority, for breaking mules:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“In breaking the mule, most persons are apt to get out of
-patience with him. I have got out of patience with him myself.
-But patience is the great essential in breaking; and in the use
-of it you will find that you get along much better. The mule
-is an unnatural animal, and hence more timid of man than the
-horse; and yet he is tractable and capable of being taught to
-understand what you want him to do. And when he understands
-what you want, and has gained your confidence, you
-will, if you treat him kindly, have little trouble in making him
-perform his duty.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“In commencing to break the mule, take hold of him gently,
-talk to him kindly. Don’t spring at him, as if he were a tiger
-you were in dread of. Don’t yell at him; don’t jerk him; don’t
-strike him with a club, as is often done; don’t get excited at
-his jumping and kicking. Approach and handle him the same
-as you would an animal already broken, and through kindness
-you will, in less than a week, have your mule more tractable,
-better broken, and kinder than you would in a month, had you
-used the whip. Mules, with very few exceptions, are born
-kickers. Breed them as carefully as you will, the moment they
-are able to stand up, and you put your hand on them, they will
-kick. It is, indeed, their natural means of defense, and they
-resort to it through the force of instinct. In commencing to
-break them, then, kicking is the first thing to guard against and
-overcome. The young mule kicks because he is afraid of a man.
-He has seen those entrusted with their care beat and abuse the
-older ones, and he very naturally fears the same treatment as
-soon as a man approaches him. Most persons entrusted with
-the care of these young and green mules have not had experience
-enough with them to know that this defect of kicking is
-soonest remedied by kind treatment. Careful study of the
-animal’s nature, and long experience with the animal have
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_60'>60</span>taught me that, in breaking the mule, whipping and harsh
-treatment almost invariably make him a worse kicker. They
-certainly make him more timid and afraid of you. And just
-as long as you fight a mule and keep him afraid of you, just
-so long will you be in danger of his kicking you. You must
-convince him through kindness that you are not going to hurt or
-punish him. And the sooner you do this, the sooner you are
-out of danger from his feet.”</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>PERFORMING MULES.</h3>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i056.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>A “COMIC” MULE.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>Chief among circus attractions, especially in the eyes of the
-boys, are the trick or “comic” mules. A couple of these
-animals are attached to nearly every troupe, and quite a variety
-of tricks are performed by them. The performance usually the
-most eagerly looked forward to, is that reserved for the final
-part of the exhibition. The regular performances being concluded,
-one of the mules is retained in the ring and the ring-master
-invites some boy present among the audience to come
-forward and take a ride—if he can. There are generally plenty
-of eager respondents to this invitation, one of whom is permitted
-to enter the ring. The ring-master leads the mule up
-to the boy as though to assist him in mounting. If the boy is
-“green” he will probably be somewhat astonished, as soon as
-the mule is brought near him, at having the pit of his stomach
-made a target for the reception of the said mule’s heels. If he
-has already seen a similar performance he will have anticipated
-this little episode, which can always be calculated upon
-without fear of disappointment. After many struggles the boy
-perhaps succeeds in mounting the mule and then an amusing
-contest ensues between them—the boy’s efforts being directed
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_61'>61</span>to maintain his hold, and the mule’s to dislodge him. Running
-at full speed, the animal tries to throw his rider by stopping
-suddenly, and if successful in this attempt, the boy is either
-thrown head first among his companions, or, if he lands in the
-ring, is chased out by the mule.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It is rarely that any one succeeds in maintaining his hold for
-more than a few minutes, unless he is a capital rider, in which
-case he may be able to master the animal; should this result
-be at all likely, the ring-master will, on some pretext, interfere
-and select some less expert rider from the audience. Finally
-an attaché of the circus, disguised as a countryman, volunteers
-to ride the mule, and after considerable caricature riding, and
-ridiculous posturing, he concludes the performance.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Sometimes to enhance the interest in the affair a reward of
-five dollars is offered to any one who will ride the mule three
-times around the ring. This was usually done by Dan ——,
-a prominent circus manager. We were present on one occasion
-when a big burly “rough” entered the ring at Dan’s general
-invitation, to compete for the prize. The mule was particularly
-spunky but he was finally forced to succumb, and notwithstanding
-all Dan’s attempts to balk the rider, the mule was
-ridden the requisite number of times around the ring. Lest
-any of our readers should be led to cherish the delusion that <i>they</i>
-might thus earn a reward for displaying their mule breaking
-abilities, we may mention that, in this case at least, the rider
-did <i>not</i> receive the money. The showman assured him that
-the offer was only in fun and declined to hand over the amount.
-The rough thereupon “pitched in” and administered a thrashing
-to the showman before he could be prevented. A general
-fight was only averted by the exertions of the police. We
-believe Dan, while he remained in that locality, did not repeat
-his offer.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Very little special instruction is required for “comic mules.”
-The kicking part of the performance may be taught according
-to the instructions given for teaching horses the same act. The
-mule is allowed with strangers to give full vent to all the natural
-viciousness of his nature, and is encouraged therein. Toward
-his trainer, and those connected with the establishment,
-such conduct is not allowed. He soon learns from experience
-that the worst conduct toward boys in the ring is meritorious,
-and being annoyed by their persistent efforts to ride him, he
-resorts to every possible device, without requiring any instruction,
-to get rid of his tormentors.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Another humorous scene sometimes enacted by the mules is
-a prize fight, the principals being rigged up in costume and
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_62'>62</span>furnished with boxing gloves, while two small donkeys are made
-to seat themselves and hold sponges, as though personating the
-seconds. Sometimes this latter character is assumed by the
-clown and ring-master, though it makes little difference. The
-actions of the mules have a very slight resemblance to a combat
-and the costumes make them look funny and satisfy the audience.
-The training required is merely to make them stand
-erect.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i058.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>AN ASININE PRIZE FIGHT.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Mules, though possessing less intelligence than horses, may
-be taught many of the tricks which the latter perform, and the
-same instructions will suffice for training them.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The sure-footedness of mules has enabled trainers to teach
-them, in several cases, a very effective and showy trick—that
-of walking over a number of empty bottles placed upright on a
-floor or platform. This feat is always highly successful wherever
-performed, and it is really an excellent one. The bottles used
-are large, stout porter bottles, which will readily sustain a great
-weight if placed directly on top. To teach the trick the bottles
-are at first secured in a platform composed of a double thickness
-of planks, in the upper one of which holes are cut. In these
-holes the bottles are placed; the bottoms resting on the lower
-layer of planks, while the upper one holds them securely in
-place.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Before teaching this trick the animal is usually taught the
-ordinary pedestal trick, as explained in a preceding chapter, as
-a preparatory lesson. He will then more readily acquire the
-bottle feat. He is first made to place one fore foot on top of a
-bottle’s neck, then the other fore foot on another. Then the
-first foot is tapped with the whip to make him raise it and
-advance it to the succeeding bottle; as he does this his hind
-foot is struck gently to force him to place it on the vacated
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_63'>63</span>bottle. Six or eight bottles are sufficient to commence with,
-additions being made as the animal becomes proficient. When
-the trick is learned it is unnecessary to secure the bottles in any
-way; if the mule places his foot squarely on the top, as he
-should be made to do, there is no danger of either breaking or
-upsetting them.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i059.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE PORTER BOTTLE FEAT.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>There is a trick related of a couple of English costermongers,
-or perambulating vegetable dealers, which is amusing if not of
-practical value. These two worthies were in the habit of passing
-their donkey through a Devonshire toll gate, on their
-return trip, free of charge, by making him walk through on his
-hind legs, arm in arm with them, and taking advantage of the
-twilight to represent him as a friend slightly under the influence
-of liquor!</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>At the south, where mules are almost universally used for
-many purposes for which horses are used at the north, the
-negroes are in the habit of directing their movements in many
-cases entirely by the voice. The animals of that section being
-as a rule more gently treated, are of a better disposition than
-their northern brethren. The course of training practiced by
-their stable masters is by no means systematic, but the animals
-manage by some means to learn to understand and obey
-the far from lucid commands. We have often been surprised
-to see how readily the mules would detect the meaning of
-what, to our ears, was entirely unintelligible. Probably practice
-had taught them what was required just as the mules which
-convey travelers through the wild mountain passes of Spain are
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_64'>64</span>reported to stop immediately upon hearing the hail of any of
-the banditti who infest those regions—habitual experience of
-the customs of those gentry having taught them to come to
-a stand still.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>There is an amusing, though, possibly, not strictly authentic,
-story told in connection with the performance of the pantomime
-of Humpty Dumpty, some years ago, in this city. In this
-spectacle a small mule was made to appear quite comically by
-the dexterity of his heels. During the season the regular animal
-fell ill, and an amateur was substituted. When one of the
-characters touched the new mule to make him kick, he began
-in admirable style. He kicked off the fellow and kicked him
-twice before he touched the boards. Then he ran toward
-several of the other dramatis personæ, and kicked them. Every
-movable object on the stage, animate or inanimate, he kicked off.
-Next he began on the scenery. He kicked down a whole forest,
-three good sized cottages, a picturesque cascade, a granite
-prison, a robber’s cave, a royal palace, the Rialto and Vesuvius
-in eruption, and was about to attack the grand transformation
-scene from Midsummer Night’s Dream, when a rope was thrown
-around his neck, and he was dragged off by the whole strength
-of the company, assisted by all the able bodied supernumeraries.
-The audience, many of whom supposed the obstreperous mule
-part of the performance, were delighted at his energy, and
-demanded with deafening plaudits, a repetition of the scene.
-The uproar was so great that the manager came out and said
-that an intermission of fifteen minutes would be given to enable
-some of the actors to recover the breath that the active mule
-had kicked out of them, and pledged his honor that the brute
-should never make another appearance on the Olympic stage.
-At this the audience roared louder than ever, and for nearly
-half an hour the performance was suspended by the universal
-guffaw. Every night afterward while the piece ran, the kicking
-mule was called for, and the manager of the theater it is said,
-in consequence, had to insert an advertisement in the daily
-papers, stating that the animal was mysteriously knocked in
-the head the same night of his highly successful débût.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i060.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_65'>65</span>
-  <h2 id='VII' class='c007'>CHAPTER VII.<br /> <span class='large'>SOME HINTS FOR FARMERS—MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING OF ANIMALS ON THE FARM—SOME EVILS AND HOW TO REMEDY THEM—GOOD TRAINING VS. BAD.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Farmers would find it of great advantage to pay more
-attention to the education of their domestic animals. Many
-things may be taught them without any appreciable trouble,
-which will prove not only convenient, but profitable in the saving
-of time and labor that may be effected. For instance, any
-animal on the farm may be taught to come on being called,
-instead of requiring to be hunted for and chased home whenever
-wanted. All that is necessary is to give him some dainty as a
-reward, each time, and the thing will be accomplished almost
-before you are aware of it. By giving each animal a particular
-name and calling him by that, you teach each individual to
-come to you when wanted, and if you reward only the one you
-call, the others will soon learn to come only when desired. This
-custom is observed with the sheep in Greece; the shepherd has
-only to call any one he wants, and the animal will instantly
-leave its pasturage and its companions and run to the hand of
-the shepherd, with every token of pleasure. Those which have
-not learned their name are called “wild,” while the others are
-termed “tame.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Animals cannot associate with man without learning <i>something</i>.
-Many of those habits and tricks which farmers deplore
-in their stock, are due to the <i>unintentional</i> training that has
-been given the animals. If your stock run from you, appear to
-dread your presence and can never be made to stand quietly,
-perhaps this state of things may be accounted for if you reply
-candidly to the question whether they have not been accustomed
-to tormenting or annoyance, and so taught to be wild. No
-wonder there is complaint of cows being unquiet, when the
-habit is so general of pelting them with stones, or punching
-them with sticks, while driving home to milk.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>How often instead of attempting to teach the animals proper
-behavior do we see an apparently contrary course adopted?
-The “American Stock Journal” has some sensible remarks on
-this subject:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“We find many persons, when turning stock into or out of
-pasture, instead of letting down all the bars, leaving two or
-three of the lower rails in their place; and then, by shouting or
-beating, perhaps, force the animals to leap over. This is capital
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_66'>66</span>training, the results of which are seen in the after disposition
-of animals to try their powers of jumping where a top rail happens
-to be off, and this accomplished, to set all fences at defiance,
-and make a descent upon the corn or grain field, as their inclination,
-ability or hunger may prompt them. Another good
-lesson is to open a gate but a little way, and then, as in the case
-of the bars, force the cattle forward, and by threats and blows
-compel them to pass through it. The result of this teaching is
-shown in the determined spirit manifested by some cattle to
-make a forcible entry into the stable, yards, fields, or in fact, to
-almost every place where a gate or door may, by accident, be
-left slightly open. A western farmer says he makes it a rule
-whenever cattle are made to pass a fence, whether through
-bars or ‘slipgap,’ to leave one rail for them to pass under.
-This gives them a downward tendency, and lessens their inclination
-to jump or look upward, as they are sure to do when a
-lazy attendant throws down a part of the rails, and makes them
-vault the rest. Cattle may be taught to go over any fence by
-the careful training they often get for this end, performed as
-follows: First, starve them or give them poor feed, which will
-make them light and restless. As soon as they go over the
-lowest part of the fence after better provender, make them jump
-back again, and put on one more rail, saying, ‘I guess that will
-keep them out.’ Next day, (of course they will be in mischief
-again) repeat the process, adding another rail; in a short time
-they will take care of themselves, and harvest the crops without
-charge.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>That gentleness and good treatment will subdue even naturally
-unamiable dispositions in animals, is shown by the example
-of the bulls intended for the bull fights at Havre during the
-marine exhibition in 1868. The bulls, selected for their ferocity
-on the plains of the Guadalquiver, were so kindly treated by the
-railway servants during their journey across Spain and France,
-that, on arriving at their destination, they had become perfectly
-tame and could not be induced to fight. The sight-seers were
-obliged to solace themselves with a regatta in lieu of their
-anticipated combat.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It may be interesting here to refer briefly to the proper
-management of bulls. There has been some discussion as to
-whether or not it is advisable to use bulls for purposes of
-draught. The advocates of the plan consider that a bull should
-do <i>some</i> labor and that exercise would be beneficial. The
-opponents say that the main object of keeping bulls is to breed,
-and that exhaustive labor would impair the vigor of the descendants.
-Though the latter is probably the true case bulls should
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_67'>67</span>be exercised in the open air if it is desired to keep them in health
-and vigor. They should always have a ring inserted through
-the nose that they may be held in control, but they should
-never be tied up by anything attached to this ring. Always
-use a rope tied around the horns; a sudden jerk is very apt to
-tear the ring from the nose. Never fool with bulls, and beware
-of trusting yourself in their power. They are subject to sudden
-fits of fierceness, when any defenceless person is liable to be
-horribly destroyed.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>One of the most important duties on the farm is the breaking
-of steers. It is best to begin with them as calves, and let the
-boys play with them, and drive them tied or yoked together,
-taking care they are not abused. When a pair of old steers are
-to be put together and broken to the yoke, or a pair of bulls, as
-not unfrequently happens, it is usually best to yoke them, and
-<i>tie their tails together</i>, in an extempore stall, in a well fenced
-yard, and then turn them loose in the yard, which should not
-be large enough for them to run in and get under much headway.
-If the tails are not tied together they will frequently
-turn the yoke, which is a very bad habit. After half a day’s
-association, the lesson of “gee up!” and “whoa!” may be
-inculcated—and when well learned, probably the next day,
-“haw” and “gee.” The daily lesson should be given after
-they have stood yoked a while. They should not be taken
-from the yard until they have become used to the yoke, and
-are no longer wild and scary, as they are apt to be at first.
-Each day all previous lessons should be repeated. Put them
-before an ox-sled or a pair of cart wheels at first, rather than
-to a stone boat, as they are apt to step on the chain, and that
-frightens them. All treatment should be firm but mild, and
-no superfluous words should be employed.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>As regards training heifers, a Pennsylvania farmer who has
-trained and milked heifers for more than fifty years, and never has
-any trouble about their jumping, kicking, or running, gives the
-following as his secret: “When I intend to raise a heifer calf
-for a milch cow, I always raise it by hand, and when feeding,
-frequently handle it by rubbing it gently over the head and
-neck until it becomes tame and gentle. The rubbing is begun
-at the first feeding with milk, and continued until I quit feeding
-it; I never afterward have any trouble about milking them.”</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_68'>68</span>
-  <h2 id='VIII' class='c007'>CHAPTER VIII.<br /> <span class='large'>DOGS IN GENERAL—WATCH DOGS—THE SHEPHERD’S DOG.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Among all the animals the dog seems preëminently intended
-by nature for the companion and friend of man.
-Even the instinctive passions all animals have for their own
-kind appear to be in a measure sacrificed to human influence,
-for the dogs often care more for the society of man than for
-that of their own kind. Not only is the dog a trusty and valuable
-friend and associate of man, but the companionship between
-the human and the canine races developes in the latter many of
-those noble qualities not possessed under other circumstances.
-The Turks look upon the dog with abhorrence, and almost universally
-in the East he is an outcast from human society. The
-consequence is that all his good qualities are lost; he is no
-longer the faithful companion, ready to defend his master with
-his life, but on the contrary, he is deceitful, bloodthirsty, and as
-unlike the more favored dog of other countries as it is possible
-to imagine.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>WATCH DOGS.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>Many kinds of dogs are used as watch dogs, and where all
-that is required of them is a notification of nightly intruders,
-and the awakening of the household, perhaps the species used
-is of comparatively little consequence. Where the dog is
-intended to act as a defender as well as a sentinel, strength and
-courage are important requisites. With many the bull dog is
-a favorite for this purpose. Though the least intelligent of his
-species his unflinching and unconquerable courage renders him
-a terrible opponent. So utterly without intellect is his courage,
-however, that no consideration of his foe’s powers deters him
-from attacking the most formidable thing that gives offense.
-Striking examples of this quality are displayed in England in
-what are termed “bull baits,” exhibitions whose cruelty and
-brutality are scarcely excelled in the customs of any other
-country. In these bull baits the dog, while fastened to the
-nose of some unfortunate bull, has had one leg after another cut
-off with a knife to test his courage. So persistent is the dog in
-maintaining his hold that the most frightful mutilation will not
-compel him to relinquish it until his strength is exhausted from
-loss of blood; he has been known to die from this inhuman
-hacking with his death grip firmly holding the bull.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Probably the best watch dog is the mastiff. Capable of
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_69'>69</span>great attachment to his master, he unites strength with intelligence,
-and, while implacable toward intruders, toward members
-of his master’s family he is docile and gentle. His hearing is
-remarkably acute, for he can detect the difference between a
-familiar and a strange footstep, however light it may be.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>THE SHEPHERD’S DOG.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>The rapid increase in the importance of sheep husbandry
-in this country will soon direct attention to the value of proper
-dogs for assisting in their management and protection. There
-are several different breeds used for this purpose, varying in
-different countries with their several local requirements. In
-Spain the Pyrenean, or St. Bernard’s dogs, are found valuable
-to accompany the large merino flocks on their annual migrations
-to the mountains, as a protection against the wolves
-infesting the Pyrenees. In Spain, too, the mastiff is highly
-prized, an improved, large breed, with strong feet, short hair
-and slightly pointed nose, being much in use.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A gentleman of Delaware gave, some years ago, the following
-account of a shepherd’s dog of the Spanish breed in his
-possession:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“The dog is three times as large as the shepherd’s dog described
-by Buffon, but is endowed with the same good qualities:
-immense strength and great mildness in his usual deportment,
-though ferocious toward other dogs. I can say, without exaggeration,
-that at least twenty dogs have been killed in my barnyard,
-or on my farm, by my dog Montague. His dimensions
-are three feet eleven inches from his eyes to the root of his tail,
-and two feet eight inches high over the shoulders. He is a
-fine animal, <i>entirely white</i>. I prefer that color in recollection
-of the story of old Jacob. In fact, I had formerly a black dog,
-and many of my lambs were born black. Since I have had
-Montague and his mother I have very few black lambs. The
-natural instinct of this animal is to guard your sheep against
-wolves and dogs. No other training is required, but to keep
-them constantly with your flock, the moment they are from the
-litter, until they are grown.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>What is commonly known as the shepherd’s dog is a smaller
-breed, seldom more than two feet high. Those in France are
-usually black with white touches on breast, face, legs, etc.;
-with sharp head and nose, and with a countenance full of alertness
-and intelligence. In Great Britain, particularly in Scotland,
-the colors of the shepherd’s dog are more mixed with shades
-of red and brown; or black dogs with sharp ears, turning down
-at the tips. The Scotch breed, or colley, is a light and active one,
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_70'>70</span>probably the best adapted for those portions of our own country
-where there is no danger from wild animals. It is pretty extensively
-diffused in the United States and British America, and
-is very useful to the farmer, shepherd or drover.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i066.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>SCOTCH COLLEY, OR SHEPHERD’S DOG.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>The Mexican shepherd’s dog is doubtless a descendant of the
-Spanish ones introduced at the time of the conquest, and is a
-marvel of fidelity and intelligence. In training these dogs the
-method is to select from a multitude of pups a few of the
-healthiest and finest looking, and to put them to a sucking ewe,
-first depriving her of her own lamb. By force, as well as from
-a natural desire she has to be relieved of the contents of her
-udder, she soon learns to look upon the little interlopers with
-all the affection she would manifest for her own natural offspring.
-For the first few days the pups are kept in the hut, the ewe
-suckling them morning and evening only; but gradually, as she
-becomes accustomed to their sight, she is allowed to run in a
-small enclosure with them, until she becomes so perfectly familiar
-with their appearance as to take entire charge of them. After
-this they are folded with the whole flock for a fortnight or so;
-they then run about during the day with the flock, which after
-a while becomes so accustomed to them, as to be able to distinguish
-them from other dogs—even from those of the same
-litter which have not been nursed among them. The shepherds
-usually allow the slut to keep one of a litter for her own particular
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_71'>71</span>benefit; the balance are generally destroyed. After the pups
-are weaned, they never leave the particular drove among which
-they have been reared. Not even the voice of their master can
-entice them beyond sight of their flock; nor can hunger or
-thirst.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A remarkable example of the intelligence of these dogs is
-displayed when two flocks approach within a few yards of each
-other; their respective protectors will place themselves in the
-space between them, and as is very naturally the case, if any
-adventurous sheep should endeavor to cross over to visit her
-neighbors, her dog protector kindly but firmly leads her back,
-and as it sometimes happens, it may make a rush and succeed
-in joining the other flock, the dogs under whose charge they are
-go over and bring them all out, but strange to say, under such
-circumstances they <i>are never opposed by the other dogs</i>. They
-approach the strange sheep only to prevent their own from
-leaving the flock, though they offer no assistance in expelling
-the other sheep. But they <i>never permit</i> sheep not under canine
-protection, nor dogs not in charge of sheep, to approach them.
-Even the same dogs which are so freely permitted to enter
-their flocks in search of their own are driven away with ignominy
-if they presume to approach them without that laudable
-object in view.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The English sheep dog, or drover’s dog, is a <i>tailless</i> animal,
-larger, coarser, and stronger than the colley. It is very easily
-trained and is very well adapted for working among cattle,
-keeping the herd from straggling when on the road or the
-prairie, and acting as an aid to the farmer in the management of
-his flocks and herds. One of this breed was used by an American
-farmer to drive home his cows. It was only necessary to
-tell him it was time to bring the cows, and he would scour the
-farm and bring them from all parts safely into the yard. On the
-prairies such dogs would be of great use.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A careful, well tempered shepherd never allows his dog to
-harass or worry the sheep. He walks his regular rounds quietly,
-the dog following at his heels, appearing to take no notice of
-the sheep, and they almost unconscious of his presence. Should
-anything occur in which the aid of the dog is needed, he is at
-hand to perform the will of his master. If the sheep break
-through a fence into forbidden ground, one word from the shepherd
-is enough, the dog drives them back without causing much
-alarm. If a sheep breaks away from the flock, the dog is not
-allowed to bite it; he is taught to run before it and bark, in
-order to drive it back to its place.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A dog which has been properly trained will be continually on
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_72'>72</span>the look out for stray sheep, and will, of his own accord, visit
-those parts of the pastures where the fences are weakest, and
-where ditches or ravines exist, into which the sheep may be in
-danger of falling. Heavy sheep, with large fleeces, will sometimes
-lie on their backs for a whole day or night, being unable
-to get up. When in this position, instances have occurred of
-their eyes being picked out either by ravens or carrion crows.
-They are all subject to the attacks of dogs and foxes. A well
-trained shepherd’s dog will find sheep that are in this position,
-and attract attention to them.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Well trained dogs will not annoy ewes with lambs, nor show
-any signs of irritation when assaulted by the ewe for the protection
-of her young. They keep at a respectable distance from
-quarrelsome rams, not considering it to be any part of their
-business to fight with them.  They are very watchful at night,
-especially during the lambing season, guarding the lambs from
-the attacks of foxes and dogs and all other intruders.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In training a young shepherd’s dog, the services of a well
-trained, experienced dog will be almost indispensable. The
-ardent temperament of the young dog must be subdued, and
-there is no better mode of doing so than by compelling him to
-accompany a well trained dog and imitate his actions. A long
-line in the hands of the trainer, attached to a collar or belt on
-the neck of the young dog is generally necessary in the training
-process. With the aid of this contrivance the dog may be perfectly
-subdued, and made to obey all the commands of the
-trainer. He can be taught to “go away,” “come back,”
-“come in front,” “come behind,” “bark,” “lie down,” “be
-quiet,” “get over the fence,” “slop them,” “bring them back,”
-and every other evolution in the field exercise of the sheep dog.
-The training should commence when the pup is five or six
-months old. The older the animal is, the more difficult will
-it be to train him.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The shepherd’s dog of any of the breeds we have mentioned,
-has a natural inclination for working among sheep, but he may
-be spoiled by improper management, and then he becomes an
-enemy to the flock instead of a protector. A cross between the
-mastiff, bull dog or cur, and the shepherd’s dog, produces a
-mongrel which has an insatiate thirst for the blood of the sheep,
-and can scarcely be restrained from destroying them. The
-shepherd’s dog should be full blood, anything less is worse than
-useless. Dogs even of the best breeds may be spoiled by
-neglect or mismanagement in the training. The shepherd must
-himself treat the sheep with gentleness if he desires the dog to
-do so; the dog will act as his master does.</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_73'>73</span>
-  <h2 id='IX' class='c007'>CHAPTER IX.<br /> <span class='large'>SPORTING DOGS AND THEIR MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>The pointer and the setter are the two universally recognized
-dogs for hunting game birds. As to which of the two is the
-better variety authorities differ, and much depends upon circumstances.
-For hot climates the pointer has more endurance than
-the setter, but he is also more tender and would suffer in a cold
-climate. Pointers do not require so careful training, and with
-sportsmen who are, as is the case with many, loose in their
-manner of training, a pointer will be a passably well behaved
-dog where, with the same laxity, a setter would be utterly
-worthless. As the value of a dog in hunting depends in such a
-great degree upon his proper understanding of the work in hand,
-and his prompt and faithful execution of the duties incumbent
-upon him, too much pains cannot be taken with his training.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>PRELIMINARY TRAINING.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>The education of sporting dogs should begin in earliest puppyhood.
-Unless they are early taught obedience, it will be difficult
-to overcome this neglect by after training.  His first lesson
-may be given with the aid of a piece of beef placed before
-him on a plate. Naturally he will evince an eagerness to obtain
-it. Prevent his doing so, by gently tapping him upon the head,
-at the same time cry, “toho!” By repeating this word each
-time you check his eagerness, he is taught to associate the slap
-with the word and to stop when the word is used. This makes
-the “point.” In a few moments after you must cry, “hie on,”
-and allow him to seize the meat. “Steady” is the next lesson,
-and consists in allowing him slowly to approach the plate as
-you keep repeating the word at short intervals. When near
-the plate cry, “toho,” and never allow him to reach the meat
-until you give the command, “hie on!” When you wish him
-to break his point but not to “pitch in” to the meat, the command,
-“close on” should be used. Before he reaches the plate,
-cry, “toho,” and then, “hie on;” when he has pointed, by
-“close on” he must understand that he is to move cautiously,
-and this he is taught by the oft repeated command of “steady.”
-All these commands may be taught with patience, and patience
-is absolutely necessary. No harshness should be used, and no
-new lesson should be attempted until the old one is fully mastered.
-You should always feed the dog yourself.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>When the preceding lessons are thoroughly acquired,
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_74'>74</span>“charge” may be taught. Gently force him down as you give
-the command, extend his fore paws and gently place his head
-between them. Each time he moves, tap him lightly and repeat
-the command. No more force should be used than is absolutely
-requisite. Practice him frequently by crying, “charge—charge,”
-with your hand upraised, and forcing him into the
-desired position. To make him rise, you should cry, “hie up,”
-and gently raise him. Repeat these instructions until they are
-fully understood and readily obeyed, doing a little each day,
-but doing that thoroughly.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To retrieve is the next lesson to be taught. An old glove or
-other soft substance should be used, and after allowing the pup
-to play with it, toss it from you and he will rush to get it.
-Call him to you after he has got it, and take it from him, rewarding
-him with caresses and kind words. Repeat this plan
-using the command, “hie fetch,” when you wish him to go, and
-“come in,” when you wish him to return. By using the command,
-“come in,” on all occasions when he is a little distance
-from you—when you call him to feed him—etc., he will learn
-to obey it. Hooper in his excellent work<a id='r1' /><a href='#f1' class='c013'><sup>[1]</sup></a> gives the following
-directions for teaching a dog to retrieve: “Begin by placing
-your glove within his mouth, making him retain it; if he rejects
-it, replace it, gently correcting him, crying, ‘fetch! fetch!’
-After he understands the meaning of the word fetch you may let
-him accompany you in a walk, in some quiet place. Whenever
-he drops the glove you must gently and encouragingly replace
-it, crying, ‘fetch! fetch!’ If he rejects it the lash must be used,
-but sparingly. If you study the disposition of your dog and
-manage properly, he will soon perfectly understand you, and
-gaily and happily gambol alongside of you, seldom dropping his
-charge, and if he should, he will only need the words, ‘hie fetch!
-fetch!’ to make him bound back with eagerness to regain the
-lost glove. You may now take the glove, cast it from you,
-and tell him to ‘hie, fetch!’ He will immediately return
-with the glove. You may now let him see you drop the glove,
-walk off thirty or forty yards, wave your hand in the direction
-of the glove, and cry, ‘hie, fetch!’ He will of course regain
-the glove. After practising him at this often, you may drop
-the glove unobserved by him. He will soon follow your track
-for a considerable distance for a lost article, by receiving the
-command, ‘hie, fetch!’ You may now give the glove to
-another person to hide, first permitting the dog to see it in his
-possession, and he will be almost certain to find it, if it is at all
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_75'>75</span>accessible. In your first lessons be careful to place the glove
-where your dog will be certain to find it—not too far off.”</p>
-
-<div class='footnote' id='f1'>
-<p class='c009'><a href='#r1'>1</a>. <span class='sc'>Dog and Gun.</span>—Price thirty cents, post paid. An interesting and useful work for
-every amateur sportsman.</p>
-</div>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i071.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE SETTER.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>He should also be taught to follow closely on at the sportsman’s
-heel when they are out together; this may be done by
-saying, “back, back!” and striking him gently with the whip
-when he attempts to press forward. Any hunting dog may be
-taught to retrieve notwithstanding the complaints some sportsmen
-make to the contrary. Great patience is required to teach
-the dog, but the result of careful training amply compensates
-for the trouble. Hooper recommends that, after the dog has
-learned the preceding lessons, he be made to practice them
-often, playing with a ball.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>LESSONS IN THE FIELD.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>After the dog has been thoroughly drilled in the preliminary
-exercises we have described, it will be necessary to teach him
-their practical application. Much of the future value and usefulness
-of the dog depends upon his first day’s shooting and the
-manner in which he is initiated into the sport. We again avail
-ourselves of Mr. Hooper’s instructions for managing him the
-first day he is taken out:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_76'>76</span>“When you observe Dash more excited than usual, you may
-reasonably expect a bevy near. They will not probably be
-far off, as he has not become accustomed to the familiar and
-welcome scent that will enable him to wind them at a
-distance. Now comes the trying hour for master and pupil.
-The former should be perfectly cool, and should consider the
-killing of game a secondary affair—let him give his attention
-to Dash. The dog seems too eager for the scent—you cry
-‘steady! steady!’—if he is apparently near the game, and you
-are afraid he will flush, you cry ‘toho!’ You approach and find
-the quail do not raise—you tell him to close on, which he does
-by moving rather rapidly—you check him by crying ‘steady!
-steady!’ he points, ‘toho!’ You now approach and flush the
-bevy; be sure you bring down one bird, and it will be well that
-you only fire one barrel, that you may have more time to look
-after Dash, who of course scampers after the whirring bevy.
-You immediately cry ‘toho! come in!’—on, on he goes; in his
-wild excitement he disregards your will entirely. You now use
-your whistle. By this time the birds are out of sight (but you,
-of course, have marked them), and he is running helter skelter.
-You must soon get hold of his collar, drag him rather roughly
-back to where he pointed—lashing him slightly—and make him
-‘charge,’ and keep his position until you reload; after which
-you will take him to where your bird has fallen—indicate the
-place with your hand, crying ‘hie, fetch! fetch! fetch!’ From
-his previous lessons he will know that you wish him to look for
-something, and his nose will soon tell him what it is. Do not
-let him mouth or toy with it, or he will soon get in the habit
-of roughly mouthing your game, than which I scarcely know a
-worse habit.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“You may now rest for a short time, that the bevy may get
-over their fright; after which they will be more easily found,
-for if they have been very much frightened, they will not give
-out sufficient odor to enable your pupil to point well, and he may
-consequently flush them, thereby doing great harm. You cannot
-do better than to spend your time in repeating your house
-training with the dead quail: casting it from you, telling him
-to ‘close on! steady! charge! hie on! fetch!’ Cast it some
-distance unobserved—waft your hand in the proper direction,
-and tell him ‘hie, fetch! fetch! fetch!’ After a short time
-has elapsed, you may take Dash to where you have marked the
-birds. When near the birds, keep Dash near you, that he may
-be the more easily controlled. If he seem too eager he only needs
-the command of ‘steady!’ to control him. Let the command
-be in rather an undertone—never get into the snobbish habit of
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_77'>77</span><i>bawling</i> at your dog. Apart from its being an ungentlemanly
-habit, it frightens the quail more or less, and they will not lie
-so well to the dog. Ha! but Dash has <i>come</i> down to a point
-most beautifully, ‘toho!’ You carefully approach, flush and
-shoot the bird, and immediately give your attention to the dog,
-crying ‘charge!’ in a strong and emphatic tone; if he breaks,
-get hold of his collar as soon as possible and lash him, and at
-the same time drag him to his ‘point’ and make him ‘charge’ and
-keep his position until you reload. You then cry ‘hie up,’ make
-friends with him, and cast him off—he soon points again. You
-manage to get very near the dog, and when you fire, immediately
-cry ‘charge!’ and it would be well to accompany ‘the word
-with a blow,’ at this juncture. You make him charge, reload,
-cry ‘hie up,’ indicate the point where the bird has fallen, and
-command him to ‘hie fetch!’ You cast him off again, and
-<i>always</i> manage to control him after you fire—<i>never, never</i> suffering
-him to break shot without feeling the lash. Remember
-this is the most critical time for yourself and dog. Never suffer
-yourself to become excited; do not for some time fire more
-than one barrel, that you may sooner give your attention to
-Dash, and you will accomplish much if you can be near enough
-to Dash to give him the lash as he first springs from the point,
-at the same time crying ‘charge!’ If you do not suffer yourself
-to become excited, and lose sight of your dog after your
-shot, you will soon have him drop at the report of the gun; but
-rest assured, if you let him have his own way a few times, in
-your eagerness to secure game, you will rue it for many a day
-to come. You cannot have this fact too strongly impressed
-upon yourself. If you control him <i>from the first</i>, your object
-will be attained. If Dash evinces unusual perverseness in this,
-it will be well to make him ‘charge’ while on a ‘point.’ Even
-should he see a dead bird fall, he should not retrieve without
-permission.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It is a maxim in hunting never to allow a dog to run ahead
-of another in a point, but either to make him back, or come in to
-heel. Besides the danger of flushing your game, it would be
-permitting an unfair advantage to be taken of the dog doing his
-duty in the lead, of both which a dog of nice sensibility will
-show himself to be conscious. It happened, some years since,
-that a party was out, near Old Point Comfort in Virginia, with
-a fine pointer belonging to Mr. A——. A small terrier had
-accompanied them, and whenever the pointer would take his
-stand, the terrier would rush by him, and put up the birds.
-Repeating this vexatious, ungentlemanly conduct several times,
-the pointer was seen to grow impatient. At last having found
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_78'>78</span>another bevy, as the terrier attempted to pass him, the pointer
-seized him, and placing his fore paws on him, held him fast,
-growling to keep him quiet, and maintaining his point until the
-sportsmen came up.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>WATER DOGS.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>The Newfoundland is unquestionably the water dog par excellence,
-and probably the best individuals of the variety are
-the celebrated dogs used for duck shooting on the margin of
-Chesapeake Bay and commonly called the Chesapeake Bay
-Water Dog. These animals being derived from ancestors of
-pure breed, and the constant training from generation to generation
-having caused the transmission of their excellent qualities
-in increased measure to each successive generation, are
-probably unrivalled by any other in their particular forte.
-Owing to thoughtless and injudicious mixing of breeds a true
-Newfoundland is rarely seen. Although the purer the breed
-the better water dog he will be, yet many dogs of mixed breeds
-possessing considerable Newfoundland blood, make excellent
-dogs for ordinary aquatic sporting.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>On breeding the water dog little need be said, for, like Dogberry’s
-reading and writing, his education “comes by nature.”
-In his infancy he may be taught to bring a glove and lay it down
-at your feet as he should do; and, by practice, the comprehension
-and fulfillment of his various duties will soon follow. He
-will be found, with judicious encouragement and exercise of
-authority, more docile than a child. They have been known at
-four months old to fetch a duck, but lest the constitution be
-impaired, they should not be put too early at hard service.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Canton,” a celebrated Newfoundland, owned by Dr.
-Stewart, of Sparrow’s Point—a great sportsman in his day—was
-noted for a number of remarkable feats in securing “canvas
-backs” on the Chesapeake. She surpassed her species generally
-in unrivalled devotion to the water, and to the sport of
-ducking, as carried on by the doctor’s colored man, Varnell,
-with his murderous swivel gun. Her patience and endurance
-were almost incredible. She was the heroine of many desperate
-encounters with wounded swans, often pursuing them for miles,
-and many were her exploits among rotten and floating ice, in
-pursuit of wounded ducks, sometimes, in fogs and darkness.
-On one occasion she brought out twenty-two or twenty-three
-ducks, all killed or wounded by Varnell at a single shot. A
-good deal of time was lost in pursuing these wounded ducks, and
-at the close of this pursuit, it being then dark, Varnell gave up
-the slut as lost, so many hours had she been engaged in bringing
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_79'>79</span>out her game; but after Varnell had sorrowfully turned his
-face homeward, she overtook him with one or two ducks in her
-mouth; and the old doctor stated that he remembered Varnell
-saying that at one time, when she was most fatigued, she climbed
-on a cake of floating ice, and after resting herself on it, renewed
-the pursuit of the ducks.</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='X' class='c007'>CHAPTER X.<br /> <span class='large'>ORDINARY TRICKS PERFORMED BY DOGS.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Every dog who has the good or ill fortune to be a member
-of civilized society is usually fated to undergo a more
-or less systematic education “in the way he should go.” This
-education may be either in the primitive style illustrated by
-the administration of a vigorous kick accompanying the command
-“get out,” to teach the dog to leave you, or the more
-elaborate training which culminates in the production of a
-canine prodigy. The capacity for education in dogs varies much
-with different varieties, and even with individuals of the same
-variety. While some are taught with the greatest difficulty,
-others display a wonderful aptitude for learning, and acquire a
-proficiency which is often really surprising. Whether it is proposed
-to educate the animal as much as his capacity will admit
-of, or merely to teach him the things necessary for common convenience,
-the first thing is</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO TEACH HIM HIS NAME.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>If a dog has any particular name by which he is usually addressed,
-he will in time learn to answer to it. With a little
-system, however, he will learn much sooner than otherwise, and
-where there are several dogs it is a good plan to make each
-know his own distinctive title thoroughly, and to respond
-promptly to it. This will render your intercourse with, and
-your management of them, both easier and pleasanter. It may
-be accomplished by a very simple process. When you feed
-them, call each one by name to his food. If any of the others
-come forward, send them back. By dividing the food into small
-morsels and calling each dog in turn to receive his piece, always
-insisting that <i>he</i> and no other shall receive it, considerable of a
-lesson may be derived from each meal. When convenient take
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_80'>80</span>them out to walk, being careful to provide yourself with a
-few crackers or a piece of bread. Allow the dogs to ramble
-about at their pleasure, and whenever you choose call some
-particular one by his name; when he comes to you reward him
-with a piece of cracker. By-and-by call some other one, and
-continue the plan at your discretion. At the end of ten or a
-dozen lessons they will have pretty well learned their names,
-and come at your call. If you have only one dog, the plan
-would be about the same.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO LEAP.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>This is very a simple trick and easily taught. A line or pole
-may be extended from any convenient supports, just so high
-that the dog cannot <i>step</i> over. Take your station on one side
-of this barrier with a supply of bread or cracker. By the offer
-of a small piece induce him to approach as near as possible to
-the line or pole, keeping the tid-bit close to his nose, but raised
-a trifle above it. Now, with a sudden movement, extend your
-hand beyond the barrier, crying at the same moment, “hip,” or
-any other quick, inspiring exclamation. Eager to get the tempting
-morsel he will leap over, and the same proceeding may be
-repeated once or twice, when he should be rewarded with the
-bait he has been striving for. After a few repetitions he will
-probably leap over at a motion of the hand and the word of
-command. He should always be rewarded for obeying, and it
-is well to have a light switch with which to give him a gentle
-cut should he attempt to run under, which he should never be
-permitted to do. The hight of the barrier may be increased
-gradually from day to day, taking care never to over-task his
-powers. With practice many dogs acquire the ability of making
-very creditable leaps. We had an old dog who had been attached
-to a circus in his youth, and had been rather “fast” in
-his proclivities. Not being content to settle down to the quiet
-peacefulness of a back-yard existence, which he probably considered
-rather slow, he was in the habit of leaping over a fence
-at least ten feet high and plentifully studded with spikes, that
-he might indulge in a nightly canine spree with other festive
-dogs of his acquaintance.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>When the dog leaps readily over a bar, a hoop may be held in
-the hand and the same system pursued. The hoop may be
-gradually lessened in size until the dog finally leaps through
-one hardly bigger around than his own body, but to do this the
-trainer must display some skill in conforming the motions of the
-hoop to those of the dog as he passes through.</p>
-
-<div>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_81'>81</span>
-  <h3 class='c011'>TO WALK ERECT.</h3>
-</div>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i077.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>WALKING ERECT.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>Hold a bone or other like temptation a little above the dog’s
-nose, but not so high as to lead him to jump to get it. As he
-reaches for it raise it so as to induce him to rise up on his hind
-feet, saying as you do so, “up, up!” When he reaches the
-proper stand-point, let him remain there a moment or two and
-then let him have the bone. Soon he will stand up on your
-merely holding your hand in the position described and saying,
-“up, up.” Then he may be taught to walk in this position by
-slowly moving the bone or your hand slightly in advance. These
-exercises should not be tediously prolonged, especially at first,
-for the position is an unnatural and very fatiguing one to the
-animal. After he thoroughly understands what is required of
-him you may check any attempt he may make to regain his
-natural position before you are willing, by a gentle tap under
-the chin or under the fore paws.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO DANCE.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>A dog is generally considered sufficiently accomplished in
-this “graceful and agreeable art” when he has learned to hop
-around on his hind legs, and to keep turning completely around
-at short intervals. There are several modes of arriving at this
-result, the most simple of which is, probably, to take a long
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_82'>82</span>switch, after the dog has learned to stand erect, and to this
-switch attach a piece of meat. With this you can trace out in
-the air, in tempting proximity to his nose, the figures you wish
-him to take, and you may depend upon his instinct leading him
-to follow the motions of the switch. This may seem rather an
-absurd plan for initiating your pupil into the mysteries of the
-ball-room, but it is nevertheless one of the most effective that
-can be devised. The dog should be rewarded with the meat
-after he has danced enough to fairly earn it, and after a few
-lessons the switch may be used without any bait attached. He
-will at first follow its motions in the hope that there <i>is</i> something
-attached, and if he be rewarded for doing so, he will soon
-comprehend that following the switch means meat by-and-by.
-If he is dressed up in feminine apparel, as is generally done at
-public exhibitions, the absurd figure he cuts, and the ridiculous
-caricature of a lady “tripping the light fantastic toe” which he
-presents, is extremely laughable.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO JUMP ROPE.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>After the dog has learned to leap at your command a light
-rope may be substituted for the pole, one end of the rope being
-attached to some stationary object while the other end is held in
-your hand. Exercise the dog a few times at leaping the rope
-while it is without motion, and near the ground, using the
-command “hip,” or whatever one he has been trained to leap
-with, each time. Then give the rope a slight motion and at the
-proper moment give the dog the usual command and he will
-obey it. By increasing the motion very gradually he will,
-after many lessons, be able to jump rope very creditably. He
-may be taught either to jump while standing on his full
-complement of legs, or in the perpendicular fashion.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO SIT AND LIE DOWN.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>It is one thing to have your dog do a thing at his own
-convenience and of his own free will, and quite another thing to
-have him perform the same action at your desire, especially if
-he had a little rather not do it. This applies particularly to
-sitting or lying down, for it usually happens that when you
-desire him to do so he feels least inclined; but it is the trainer’s
-business to bend the animal’s will to his own, and in this case it
-may be done thus: Taking your position with the dog in front
-of you, raise one hand over his head and make a motion with it
-as though about to strike him on the top of his head with your
-palm; as you do so repeat the word “down” distinctly and
-commandingly, with each motion of the hand. This should not
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_83'>83</span>be done as a menace, but to indicate your wishes. While you
-do this, press firmly with your other hand upon his back, just
-over the hips,—this pressure will assist in making him take the
-desired position. When he has done so he should be patted and
-made to understand that he has done right. Repeat until he
-obeys the command readily, and then teach him to <i>lie</i> down,
-which consists in forcing him into a recumbent posture, as you
-command him to “<i>lie</i> down!”</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO BEG.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>After the dog has learned to stand erect he may easily be
-taught to beg. All that is requisite is to press him down in
-the desired position; if he attempts to leave it a gentle tap on
-the head with the switch will be sufficient to control him. He
-may, if preferred, be taught to beg without learning to stand
-erect; in this case he may be made to sit down and then, pressing
-his haunches down to prevent his rising to his feet, tap him
-under the chin till he takes the right position. Repetition is
-of course necessary until he learns what is desired, and each
-time you place him in position it is well to say “beg” two or
-three times so he may associate the word with the act. Dogs,
-like many of the human race, after they have “got the hang of
-it,” will beg persistently for the sake of an occasional trifling
-reward.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO GIVE HIS PAW.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>There is scarcely a boy’s pet dog who has not acquired this
-very simple trick, though his master probably would not recollect
-how it was taught. Perhaps it was the dog’s sociable
-feelings that led him to perform the kindly ceremony of “shaking
-hands,” or perhaps it was due to the instinctive good breeding
-which is sometimes accredited to some people—and why not
-also to some dogs? Whether politeness is a grace which
-adorns the canine character, however, is a question we hardly
-feel prepared to discuss, and it is much more probable that
-Master Harry, (or James, or whatever his name may be), with
-no special thought in regard to the matter, hit upon the secret
-which underlies all animal training—compelling obedience to a
-command until the command is obeyed without compulsion.
-What was more natural for our friend Harry, when he first
-gave the momentous command of “paw,” and Carlo utterly in
-the dark as to its signification, taking no notice of it—than to
-grip Carlo’s fore “limb” and give it a shake? Nothing in the
-world more natural. This is probably repeated at odd times
-until Carlo learns to give his paw when Harry says “paw,” or
-holds out <i>his</i> paw.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_84'>84</span>If the same paw is always given, as it will be if during the
-training that one be always taken, the dog may be taught to
-offer the other one when you ask for the “other paw,” by
-merely taking it a few times when you make the request. By
-using “paw” for one and “other paw” for the other—“paw”
-first—the dog will seldom get them confused. It is preferable
-and makes the performance seem better, while it is really no
-more difficult, if the words “right” and “left” are used in
-connection with the commands. It is just as easy for a dog to
-learn the difference between “right paw” and “left paw,” as
-between “paw” and “other paw.” It is well to lay extra
-stress upon “right” and “left” while training, and these words
-should be pronounced very distinctly. Should the dog offer the
-wrong paw merely repeat your former command until he
-changes it, then take it in your hand, call him “good dog,” and
-pat his head to let him know he has done right.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A little boy of our acquaintance had a very handsome Newfoundland
-dog, and having often heard the family physician
-desire members of the family to let him feel their pulse, he
-thought it would be a capital idea, and having coaxed the cook
-to give him some choice bits of beef-steak, he commenced practice.
-“Let me feel your pulse, Bruno,” says he, and taking
-Bruno’s paw in his fingers he imitated the doctor with a comical
-childish assumption of professional gravity. He scarcely intended,
-when he commenced, to make Bruno <i>offer</i> his pulse for
-examination at his desire, but Bruno was an intelligent dog and
-the beef-steak was very good, and before long he would stick
-his paw out as nicely as could be desired. Our little friend,
-delighted with the result of his efforts, lost no opportunity of
-showing off Bruno’s accomplishment, and the dog was continually
-holding out his “pulse” for the examination of visitors.
-The doctor calling some time after was somewhat amused at
-our little friend’s request to Bruno to “let the doctor feel your
-pulse,” and Bruno’s ready compliance therewith.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>We had a half-grown puppy of one of the larger breeds some
-years since, which by constant training became so used to offering
-his paw that he would do so to visitors or others without
-being ordered to. One day a strange cat intruded upon the
-premises, and puppy made a rush at it with every token of
-hostility. When near it, however, habit appeared to gain a
-mastery, for he held out his paw as usual. The cat being
-irritated by his previous threatening aspect merely struck at
-him with her claws, inflicting quite a severe scratch, whereupon
-puppy, perceiving politeness to be at a discount, pitched in and
-routed the enemy gallantly.</p>
-
-<div>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_85'>85</span>
-  <h3 class='c011'>TO SNEEZE.</h3>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>On a recent visit to a friend we came across a dog who would
-sneeze in a most natural manner whenever his master said,
-“Sneeze, Zip.” This being the only example of a dog performing
-this trick which we had ever seen we desired our friend to
-give us some particulars of the manner of teaching the trick,
-which he obligingly did, to this effect: “One afternoon, having
-nothing more important to do, I was amusing myself by bothering
-Zip with a long feather which I poked in his face, to induce
-him to snap at it. While doing this I by chance tickled his nose,
-he immediately commenced sneezing. Once commenced, it
-seemed as though he would never stop, and I said, rather sarcastically,
-‘Sneeze, Zip.’ I don’t suppose my words had any
-effect, but he certainly did sneeze; this gave me the idea of
-teaching him to repeat it at my bidding. Armed with my
-feather I commenced operations; tickling his nose gently each
-time I repeated the command. He didn’t like the feather very
-well, and by-and-by, as though his imagination foreshadowed its
-effects, he would sneeze on having it pointed in close proximity
-to his nose. At odd times when I had a little idle time on my
-hands, I repeated the exercise, and the dog in a few weeks would
-sneeze very creditably when I commanded. I was in the habit
-of rewarding every first rate sneeze with a butter cracker, of
-which Zip was very fond. Zip has since had the reputation of
-suffering from severe colds in the head.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>This was the only special accomplishment which Zip possessed,
-and whether this was the result of peculiarly sensitive
-olfactory organs or his master’s training we are unable to say.
-Of the merits of the latter we are not prepared to speak, having
-never given the system an actual trial, but we should imagine
-that such a course might succeed.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO SPEAK FOR IT.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>This may be taught either in connection with the preceding
-trick, as a portion of it, or by itself. If the former, it is better
-to let the dog thoroughly master the first part, begging, before
-it is attempted to teach him to “speak for it.” Take a
-piece of some article of food which he is fond of, and allowing
-him to see it, command him to “speak for it!” Of course he
-will not understand what you mean, and will probably only
-gaze wistfully at the morsel. By-and-by he will grow impatient
-and give vent to a sharp bark. The moment he has done this
-give him the article, for although he has not understood you he
-has done what you desired, and by rewarding him he learns that
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_86'>86</span>this is the case. Practice him a little at some of his old tricks
-with another reward at hand to encourage him. Should he try
-the experiment of barking while thus engaged no notice should
-be taken of it, for it is not desired that he should bark except
-he be told to, and his doing so in other cases should never be
-rewarded. When you wish it, repeat the command of “speak
-for it,” and when he obeys reward him. If at first he does not
-show an inclination to bark he may be stimulated to do so by
-your giving a “bow-wow” yourself in as doggish a manner as
-you are able. This encroachment on his language will generally
-have the desired effect, for few dogs can resist replying to
-this act which they no doubt deem an impertinent meddling
-with their “mother tongue.”</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO FETCH AND CARRY.</h3>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i082.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>DOG TAUGHT TO CARRY BASKET.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>This accomplishment may often be put to great practical use,
-and it is an excellent plan to teach all dogs, which are large
-enough to be of any service in this manner, to carry baskets or
-parcels when accompanying their masters. The mode of training
-is very simple, consisting of merely placing the article in
-the dog’s mouth, and when he lets go of it give him a slight box
-on the ear and replace the article in his mouth. Whatever is
-given him to carry should be of such a form as to be grasped
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_87'>87</span>easily by him without hurting his mouth or teeth. The weight
-should at first be <i>very</i> light and <i>never</i> more than he can easily
-carry. Most dogs will take a real pleasure in carrying articles
-in this manner, and they seem to feel the responsibility attached
-to their duty, for they will carry their own or their master’s
-dinner without attempting to appropriate any portion of it until
-the proper time when their share shall be given them. In
-teaching dogs to carry food, however, it is necessary to take a
-little special pains to overcome their instinctive inclinations to
-eat it. A good plan is to place the article in a covered basket
-which they cannot open, and when the dog has learned to carry
-an ordinary parcel give him this. If he attempts to get at the
-food, which he readily detects by his sense of smell, box his
-ears. By-and-by reward him with the food, and then try him
-with a basket from which he <i>can</i> abstract the contents; if he
-tries to do so punish him slightly, never permitting him to steal
-the food. If a dog ever deserves a reward for well doing he certainly
-does in this case, for it is too bad to tantalize him with
-the smell of some dainty and then not to let him finally have
-something for his good conduct.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To make a dog carry articles from one person to another it
-is only necessary for two persons to take their position at some
-distance from one another. One gives the dog some article
-saying, “go, sir,” at the same time. As the first says this let
-the other person call or whistle to the dog. Now let this
-one give the dog some thing and let the other one call him,
-and so on back and forth until he will go from one to the
-other at the command, “go, sir.” The distance between
-the parties may be increased from time to time, and the
-trick may be varied by one of them hiding himself, this will
-teach the dog to hunt for the person to whom he is to deliver
-the article, which will prove useful when you by-and-by desire
-to send him on an actual errand to a distance.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The extent to which any dog may be educated in this matter
-depends very much upon his natural intelligence and the skill
-and perseverance of his teacher. Many anecdotes are told of
-dogs going on errands. In some cases they go to the post-office
-for letters, in other cases to the store for groceries, etc., and we
-recollect several instances cited where dogs would, on being
-given a piece of money, go to the baker’s and purchase cake on
-their own account. The baker, in one of these instances, is said
-to have one day palmed a stale bun upon a dog who had been
-in the habit of coming to him regularly with pennies, and the
-animal, to show he was not to be imposed upon, transferred his
-custom to a rival establishment. In none of these accounts
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_88'>88</span>have we ever seen any mention of the dogs having been subjected
-to any special training, and it is more than likely that
-they never were. Animals, like men, are creatures of habit. If
-a man becomes accustomed to a certain routine it is difficult for
-him to change. Many merchants, retired from business, continue
-to pay a daily visit to their old offices, their brokers or
-lawyers, just because not to do so would make them uncomfortable
-and restless. So a dog who has become used to accompanying
-his master on any regular round of duties will often
-show that he understands where it is they are going by running
-ahead and stopping at the accustomed place. We call to mind
-a dog belonging to a gentleman residing some miles from this
-city, who will serve as an example of what we have stated,
-though probably all of our readers are familiar with instances
-equally, if not more, remarkable. The gentleman was accustomed
-to walk from his residence some half mile to take the
-morning train for the city, and to return by a particular train in
-the evening. The dog accompanied him to the cars in the
-morning, and would again meet him on the arrival of the train
-at night. It took him some weeks to learn when to expect his
-master, but after that he never made any mistakes.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A writer in one of the magazines mentions a poodle who was
-in the habit of going to church with his master and sitting with
-him in the pew during the whole service. Sometimes his
-owner did not come, but the poodle was always promptly in his
-place, remaining during the service and departing with the rest
-of the congregation. One Sunday the dam at the head of a
-lake in the neighborhood gave way, and the whole road was
-inundated. The attendance at church that morning was therefore
-restricted to a few individuals who came from near by.
-But by the time the clergyman had commenced, he saw our
-friend the poodle coming slowly up the aisle dripping with water,
-having been obliged to swim a quarter of a mile to get there.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It is not very difficult to teach a dog to go on errands. Suppose
-you wish him to go to market for you of a morning; take
-him with you regularly for a few mornings, letting him carry
-the basket. In a few days he will understand when you start
-where it is you propose to go, and will, perhaps, run on ahead
-and arrive there some minutes before you. It would be well
-on all occasions before starting to give the command, “Go to
-market,” which will accustom him to it.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>We do not vouch for the truth of the story of the dog who,
-on being given—when purchasing one time on his own account,
-with money given him for that purpose—a piece of meat inferior
-to what he considered his due, went and brought a policeman.</p>
-
-<div>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_89'>89</span>
-  <h3 class='c011'>TO BRING HIS TAIL IN HIS MOUTH.</h3>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>The dog having been taught to fetch and carry, an amusing
-application of this knowledge can be made by having him bring
-his own tail in his mouth. This trick is exceedingly funny and
-is always hailed with roars of laughter. The feat is rather
-difficult for while his tail is in his mouth, the dog can only
-advance in something like crab fashion, or sideways, with an
-almost irresistible tendency to go around in a circle without
-getting ahead any. To attain success in teaching this trick the
-dog must be gifted with a good deal of tail, and the trainer with
-a good deal of patience. Dogs will in play grasp their tails,
-and most persons have noticed while frolicking with a dog that
-if the dog’s tail be taken hold of with one’s hand, the dog will
-attempt to seize the hand with his mouth, and if his tail be now
-dexterously placed in his way, he will seize that. This perhaps
-first suggested the idea of the trick, and this is the initial
-step of the training. When the dog takes hold of his tail praise
-him, and after he has held it a little while bid him “let go,”
-and reward him. Should he relinquish his hold before you
-order him to, speak sharply to him and commence again. When
-he has learned to retain hold of his tail until ordered to relinquish
-it, the more difficult part of his lesson may be taught—the
-bringing it to the trainer. The trainer at first takes his place
-a few feet from the dog in the direction in which the dog can most
-easily advance, and calls the dog; should he let go his tail to
-come, he is to be scolded, and the tail replaced in his mouth.
-When he comes without letting go, he should be rewarded.
-Gradually the distance he is required to come may be increased,
-but it would be cruel to make this distance more than half a
-dozen yards. When the tail is placed in his mouth it is well to
-say, “Bring me your tail,” to accustom him to the order. By-and-by
-when you give this order merely hold his tail for him
-to grasp, and at last let him seize it without any assistance
-from you.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>THE ROLLING BALL.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>There are several modifications of this trick, or rather there
-are several feats all performed with this instrument—a globe of
-wood or other material some two feet in diameter. One of these
-feats consists in the dog standing with his hind feet upon the
-ground, and resting his paws on the ball, pushing it forward, or
-up and down an inclined plane. This is easily taught, and the
-only difficult part of the performance is the descent of the inclined
-plane, where the ball is apt to roll away from the animal. To
-teach this trick it is only requisite to place the dog’s paws upon
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_90'>90</span>the ball and set it slowly in motion; as you do this tap his
-hind legs gently from behind to urge him to step forward. It
-may be necessary to hold him in position by the nape of the
-neck at first, but he should very soon learn to retain his position
-without this aid. When he rolls the ball readily upon a level,
-substitute a wide plank very slightly inclined, up which he
-should be required to roll the ball. Increase the inclination of
-the plank slightly with each lesson, but the descent should only
-be attempted after he has been thoroughly drilled in the preceding
-exercises. It will be necessary to commence with a very
-slight inclination and to promptly stop the ball should the dog
-begin to lose control of it. The width of the plank may be
-decreased eventually to some ten or twelve inches.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To stand entirely upon the ball while it is in motion, and to
-propel it backward and forward, and up and down the inclined
-plane, starting and stopping it as well as guiding its motions in
-the desired direction—is a more difficult feat. In this the dog
-must be practiced in standing upon the ball while it has no
-motion; in several lessons in this just the barest possible motion
-is to be given to the ball while a slight hold upon the dog’s neck
-keeps him in position. The motion may be slowly increased
-with each lesson, but the ball must for many lessons be held
-firmly with the hand to prevent it becoming unmanageable.
-When the dog becomes able to maintain his position he may be
-required to manage the ball without any assistance. In all
-cases where he gets down from the ball, accidentally or willfully,
-he should be spoken to sharply, but the trainer should be equally
-prompt to praise and reward success.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO WALK ON STILTS.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>The stilts used in this trick are about twelve or fifteen inches
-in length, made to fasten to the leg just below the knee joint,
-with tape or thin flexible leather straps. When four are used
-there is no particular training required to make the dog walk
-upon them; it being only necessary to put him “on his pins”
-again whenever he upsets. The tumble is sufficient punishment
-for his failures. Walking man fashion on only two stilts is a
-much more difficult task, though it has been accomplished in
-some cases. The dog should be first thoroughly taught the
-walking erect trick, then stilts may be put on his hind legs. A
-cord attached to his collar and held in the trainer’s hand will
-aid in maintaining the dog’s balance until he becomes accustomed
-to his novel position. Of course the dog cannot raise
-himself upon the stilts, but must be placed erect by the trainer.
-The farther training is similar to that described for teaching
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_91'>91</span>him to walk erect. A story is told of a dog who actually found
-a wooden leg of practical use; one having been furnished him
-by a whimsical surgeon who had amputated an injured limb for
-him.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO GO UP AND DOWN A LADDER.</h3>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i087.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>CLIMBING THE LADDER.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>In teaching this trick two ladders should be provided about
-six feet in length and joined together at the top ends so as to
-form an angle when the other ends are placed on the ground.
-The bars of these ladders should be flat and sufficiently near
-together to enable the dog easily to step from one round to
-another. Standing at the side of this ladder with a switch in
-your right hand you whistle to the dog, or call him by name,
-and tap the first round of the ladder with your switch to indicate
-he is to step upon it. When he places his fore paws on
-this round, tap the next in the same manner, saying, “Go on,”
-to him. If he does not obey strike his hind legs lightly from
-behind, while you encourage him with your voice and snap your
-fingers in front of him to urge him forward. A tid-bit of some
-kind held in tempting proximity to his nose may have an encouraging
-effect. After ascending one ladder he should be made to
-go down the other. He will be inclined to jump to the ground
-in preference to descending step by step; should he do this he
-must be punished and made to commence over again. When
-on the ladder if he hesitates about proceeding gently tap the
-toes of the foot he should next advance. When two dogs have
-been taught to go over the ladders a race may be arranged, the
-dog who first goes three times over to be rewarded. The dogs
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_92'>92</span>will soon understand that when they are both ordered to go
-over, speed is expected; the dainty given to the winner will be
-an incentive to exertion. By making one dog go up to where
-the ladders join, turning half around and forming an arch of his
-body, the other dog can go over the ladders, passing beneath
-the belly of the “arch.” This is a very trifling feat but it
-generally pleases an audience.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The ladder climbing forms really the principal part of the
-celebrated siege scene, performed by dogs and monkeys. This
-scene, we believe, was first enacted in London in the year 1753,
-by a troupe of dogs and monkeys which acquired considerable
-celebrity by their performances. They were owned by a lady,
-who had also taught them, and went by the name of Mrs. Midnight’s
-Animal Commedians. A small stage was specially fitted
-up for their performances, furnished with scenery, decorations,
-etc., and to these adjuncts was no doubt due much of the success
-of the troupe. The performance was much like modern ones;
-the tricks are all included in this chapter and the one on monkeys;
-the famous siege being only a clever combination of the
-different tricks. Each animal was taught a particular part and
-merely obeyed the signals of the exhibition.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO STAND ON HIS HEAD AND TO WALK ON HIS FORE LEGS.</h3>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i088.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>WALKING ON FORE LEGS.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>The term “standing on the head” is applied to a “wrong
-end up” position though the animal is actually supported by his
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_93'>93</span>fore paws, his head not necessarily touching the ground. To
-teach the trick, provide yourself with a switch twenty inches
-in length, and moderately stout. This switch, held in your
-right hand, you place under the dog’s belly, and while you raise
-up his hind quarters with it, you place your left hand on his
-head to keep him from moving away, and to make him retain
-his reversed position. As the dog rises into position the switch
-should be gradually carried along until it supports his hind feet.
-This is the process for the first few lessons, until the dog understands
-what is required; after that it is better merely to tap
-his ankles from in front with your switch, giving at the same
-time whatever order you have accustomed him to in teaching
-the trick. He should eventually take the position without any
-hint or help from the switch.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>When the preceeding trick is thoroughly mastered, the walking
-part may be easily added. Taking your position a little in
-front of your pupil when he is in his upside-down position, you
-encourage him to come to you. At the same time you must
-keep your switch in handy proximity to his toes, which you tap
-lightly on any signs of his relinquishing his position. By-and-by
-he may be made to walk quite a distance.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO “SING.”</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>When a dog howls <i>in time</i>, we think it fair to call his performance
-“singing.” Dogs may be taught to do this; at least
-they have been, and it is reasonable to presume it may be done
-again. In only one case of this kind do we know positively
-the mode of tuition, but it was probably pretty much the same
-in all cases. This consisted in keeping the dog without food
-until his appetite was quite sharp. When food was shown him,
-he naturally whined for it. Now, a dog may be made to whine,
-howl, or bark, if you make any of those noises yourself; almost
-any dog will imitate you, and not only that, but the pitch and
-style of noise he makes will be somewhat regulated by that
-made by you. The hungry dog is in prime mental condition
-for this exercise, and if rewarded when he hits pretty near upon
-the right degree of noise, he will learn to follow your tones
-quite accurately. If exercised in a regular scale, or in a simple
-tune, he will by-and-by go through it without requiring
-your prompting, with sufficient accuracy to be recognized—if
-the hearers know beforehand what melody to expect.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It is not pretended, of course, that dogs trained as above described,
-do anything but repeat a series of noises mechanically
-in a prescribed rotation. We find recorded, however, one instance
-of a dog learning to discriminate between the different
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_94'>94</span>notes, and to detect false ones in a musical performance. The
-story seems improbable, but may be true; however, it is worth
-telling:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Frederick Schwartz, a merchant retired from business in
-Darmstadt, occupied his leisure hours, which were many, almost
-exclusively with music. His passion for the art acquired
-such an intensity that he required every one about him to fall
-in with his musical predilections by either vocal or instrumental
-coöperation. Poodle, the dog, was the only one unable to render
-any musical assistance. As worthy Herr Schwartz felt the
-utter impossibility of making Poodle afford any practical aid,
-he determined to train him to fill the office of critic in his own
-harmonious community. He succeeded, too, by an ingenious
-method. Whenever a note out of tune proceeded from a voice
-or an instrument; every time that a musical fault was committed
-by any member of the family—and such faults were
-committed purposely—the rod was applied to Poodle’s back,
-and he naturally began to bark and howl. He was exactly in
-the position of the whipping boy, who pursued his studies with
-the royal prince. Whenever the prince made a grammatical
-blunder, the whipping boy had to smart for it. Before long,
-simple threats were substituted for smitings of his (Poodle’s)
-back; afterward a look sufficed to set the creature barking;
-and little by little Poodle familiarized himself with wrong notes
-and other musical atrocities, until at last a mistake could not
-be committed without his rebuking it either by a bark or a
-growl. He thus became, as far as music was concerned, the
-most impartial judge, the most conscientious critic in the whole
-grand duchy of Hesse Darmstadt.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Unfortunately, his appreciation of musical art was completely
-and solely negative. He bestowed no praise, but only
-blame. Sing with expression, perform with talent, the dog
-would remain impassive and cold; but at the slightest incorrectness
-of intonation he ground his teeth, lashed his tail,
-growled, yelped, and barked aloud. So long as he flourished—and
-he may flourish still—not a concert or an opera was rehearsed
-in Darmstadt without inviting Herr Frederick Schwartz
-and his dog—but more especially the dog. If the prima donna
-made the slightest slip, the dog looked at his master with an
-air of disapprobation. If the hautboys came in too late, Poodle
-pricked up his ears; if the clarionet hurried the movement,
-Poodle fidgeted on his bench; if the kettle-drummer broke the
-time, Poodle uttered audible murmurs. In fact, no piece was
-considered properly executed unless the canine connoisseur remained
-quiet on his seat.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_95'>95</span>“Nor must it be supposed that Poodle’s instinct was limited
-to forming a judgment of the execution only. His intelligence,
-trained by hearing classical works, seemed to have penetrated
-some of the secrets of composition. An abrupt modulation, a
-false resolution, would produce symptoms of doubt on Poodle’s
-muzzle; consecutive fifths made him shudder, and a halting
-melody set his teeth on edge. Sometimes Herr Schwartz and
-his intimate friends, in the privacy of a snug little quartette
-party, would amuse themselves by producing discordant sounds,
-for the sake of tormenting the sensitive animal. On such occasions
-Poodle lost all self-command: his hair stood on end, his
-eyes became bloodshot, and frightful howlings answered to the
-discord produced by the fiddles of the mystificators. Moreover,
-they were obliged to keep within certain bounds. Poodle possessed
-only a limited stock of forbearance. If the cacophony
-was too intense or too prolonged, Poodle, carrying out his sense
-of duty, upset everything. Music-stands, music-stools, and instruments,
-were strewed in confusion about the room.”</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>THE LUMP OF SUGAR TRICK.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>This consists in placing a lump of sugar on the dog’s nose,
-and having him toss it up and catch it in his mouth. It is not
-essential that sugar should be used; any other dainty will do
-as well, indeed a piece of meat will answer better in teaching
-the trick. In teaching, hold your switch under the dog’s chin,
-and tap him whenever he tries to lower his head to let the meat
-drop. If he does not presently jerk his head up, and so throw
-the morsel into the air, you should strike him under the chin a
-pretty smart rap to make him do so. When it leaves his nose
-there will be no instruction required to make him seize it
-promptly before it has a chance to reach the ground; should it,
-however, touch the ground, it is well to take it from him, and
-make him toss it again.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>TO FEIGN DEATH.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>A dog may be placed on his back or in almost any other
-posture, and by speaking sharply to him and threatening him
-with your forefinger, you can prevent his changing his position.
-In this manner the trick of feigning death is taught. If a
-special word of command be used when placing him, he will
-learn to take the position on hearing that command.</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_96'>96</span>
-  <h2 id='XI' class='c007'>CHAPTER XI.<br /> <span class='large'>WONDERFUL FEATS PERFORMED BY DOGS—MOST CELEBRATED DOGS OF THE WORLD—LEARNING THE ALPHABET—TO PLAY CARDS AND DOMINOES—TO SELECT ANY ARTICLE DESIRED AND PUT IT ANYWHERE DIRECTED.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Our last chapter gave a wide range of tricks performed by
-dogs, most of which can be taught by the amateur trainer.
-There is another class of tricks, requiring great intelligence on
-the part of the dog, and rare skill and patience on the part of the
-trainer, for their successful mastery. Though these may be
-beyond the abilities of ordinary dogs and ordinary trainers—for
-such feats are very rare, even in public exhibitions, and when
-performed, are looked upon almost as miracles—they cannot
-fail to prove interesting to our readers, and it is barely possible
-that some reader of this book may yet astonish the world with
-some equally proficient animal, to rival those whose deeds are
-herein recorded.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The French trainers have probably brought the education of
-the dog to a point achieved in no other country, and several of
-these canine celebrities have become subjects of history. Emil
-de Tarade gives a very interesting account of two of these, the
-principal part of which account we translate, as follows:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“In 1840 I was acquainted with M. Leonard, of Lisle, (an
-inspector of the revenue) who possessed two well taught dogs.
-Braque and Philax, as they were named, were two grayhounds,
-with large brown ears. Their eyes alone would tell you how
-much intelligence had been developed in these interesting animals.
-Words were fixed in their memory with a positive
-meaning. These dogs knew as well as we do the meaning of
-‘above,’ ‘below,’ ‘before,’ ‘behind,’ etc. They made a proper
-application of the name of a color, of a number up to a certain
-point; knew what was meant by ‘parlor,’ ‘corridor,’ ‘stairs;’
-knew the furniture, utensils, small objects of the pocket and
-toilet; and when one bade these dogs perform in the <i>absence</i> of
-their master, one was seized with astonishment and admiration.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“If you said to one: ‘Go sit down in front of the lady in
-the rose-colored dress,’ the dog went immediately to seek the
-lady so designated, seated himself upon his haunches, wagging
-his tail, and regarding the lady with a very expressive look.
-‘Ask the lady for her thimble.’ The lady offered successively
-her handkerchief, gloves, etc., but the animal did not move.
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_97'>97</span>As soon as she presented the thimble, he ran off, making a
-thousand gambols at having obtained it. After this he passed
-gravely about the room, as if to say: ‘What shall I do with
-it?’ On saying to him: ‘Go to the sofa in front of the fireplace—there
-is a hat upon it—put the thimble in the hat, and
-carry it to the lady in blue,’ the dog would strictly carry out
-the order.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Placing a piece of meat on a piece of bread, and putting
-the whole into a corner of the room, you might say to either of
-these dogs: ‘Seek it! Seize it!’ The animal would run
-toward the object in question, but on nearing it, he would face
-about, seat himself before you with a pleasant air, as if to say:
-‘I only eat what my master gives me—is Mons. Leonard present?’
-The latter would say: ‘Leave the meat—put it on the
-ground—eat the bread.’ The order would be executed.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Both these dogs knew how to play dominoes, and this is the
-method in which it was done: One dog was made to seat
-himself upon a chair before a table on which were placed the
-dominoes, and opposite a human player. It was necessary to
-give the dog only four dominoes, which were laid out in a row,
-the faces toward him. If he had a double six he played it at
-once, placing it in the middle of the table. If he had not, he
-waited for his opponent to play. Then, if he had a domino
-proper to play, he did not fail to do it, though he never adjusted
-it nicely—contenting himself with placing it at the end
-to which it belonged. If you attempted to cheat, by placing a
-two, for instance, where a six belonged, he contented himself
-(if it was a lady) with returning the wrong domino; but if it
-was a gentleman, he accompanied the correction with a growl,
-as if to say: ‘Do not revoke, sir.’ These feats were performed
-by these dogs either in the presence or absence of their master.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“One day, walking in the country, I asked M. Leonard to
-order the dogs to go over a fence right and left. He did so by
-command only, Philax going over on our left, and Braque on
-the right, as they were ordered. Then he ordered them to kiss
-each other; they pushed muzzle to muzzle in quite an amusing
-way. Another thing, the dogs were frequently sent to the
-butcher, baker, or grocer, with a basket and written message,
-and on these occasions it was only necessary to say: ‘Go to
-the butcher!’ ‘Go to the baker!’ or, ‘Go to the grocer!’ and
-the command was always obeyed without fail. On these occasions,
-one would carry the basket, and the other would act as
-guard.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“One may see from this that if the grayhound, the least intelligent
-of his kind, is capable of such instruction, all dogs are
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_98'>98</span>capable of being taught to do things which seem apparently
-impossible.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Still another French celebrity of the canine kind is described
-by a writer in Le Siecle, a Paris journal. Mlle. Bianca, as she
-was called, one of the pug breed, created quite a sensation
-among amusement seekers at the time she was exhibited, and
-her wonderful feats were witnessed by large audiences. We
-did not see her performance, but have been assured by persons
-who did, that the following, though perhaps a little highly
-colored—as is the habit of most French writers—is yet substantially
-an accurate description of the dog’s feats. Le Siecle’s
-reporter says:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“As most of the Parisian papers have mentioned this little
-phenomenon, who reminds the public of the genius of the illustrious
-Munito, I, in turn, wished to make Mlle. Bianca’s acquaintance.
-She did me the honor to accord a private audience
-to me, for which I am extremely grateful. To see artists on
-the theater of their exploits is doubtless very agreeable, but to
-be introduced into their intimate circle of friendship, is still
-more precious. If these lines should fall under Mlle. Bianca’s
-eyes—as it is not improbable, for artists generally do not disdain
-to read newspapers where their merits are vaunted—she
-may see that, though I am only a man, may hert is no stranger
-to every sentiment of gratitude. Let me say, in the first place,
-in praise of my heroine, that her modesty exceeds even that of
-male and female literary people, who are, as everybody knows,
-a most modest race. Vanity, that horrible fault which some
-observers have insisted they were able to detect in some men
-and women—fortunately extremely rare—is no canine vice;
-and great as are Mlle. Bianca’s talents, she remains what nature
-made her—simple and good natured, and as sprightly as
-beautiful.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“She reads fluently, writes in her way, corrects faults of orthography,
-takes part in a game of ecarte, forms a bouquet by
-the names of flowers or their colors, and barks, or at least is
-familiar with, nineteen languages. Even if we admit the natural
-affection which Mlle. Bianca’s professor has for his excellent
-pupil has betrayed him into exaggerating the talents of Mlle.
-Bianca some fifteen more tongues than she really possesses,
-nevertheless she will still be a most distinguished polyglotist.
-This I can affirm. I gave her the English word ‘God’ to
-translate into Latin. She instantly, and without hesitation,
-composed the word ‘Deus.’ This is her modus operandi: She
-is placed on a table sufficiently large to allow her to move
-easily in every direction. She is in the center of the table. All
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_99'>99</span>around her are small bits of pasteboard, bearing each a letter
-of the alphabet. When a spectator gives a word, or asks for a
-translation, Mlle. Bianca seems to think a moment, half closes
-her eyes, like a poet hunting for a rhyme, and moves around
-the table, taking pasteboard, letter after letter, until she completes
-the word. She does this quietly, easily, without ever
-being betrayed into hurry. The word formed, she gravely takes
-her seat and gives one bark, as a printer places a period at the
-end of a sentence. She plays cards, and forms nosegays in the
-same way. While this intellectual animal is at work, her master
-stands motionless, some three or four paces from the table,
-but does not say a word. He sometimes disappears entirely
-behind a door, and Mlle. Bianca works wonders as effectually as
-when he is present. I said to her tutor: ‘So your dog really
-reads and understands what is said to her?’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘How can you doubt it, as you see she does so as well
-when I am absent as when I am by her side?’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘She really is the worthy peer of Munito, the Newton of
-the canine race.’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Munito!’ quickly exclaimed Mlle. Bianca’s tutor, his lip
-curling with contempt as he spoke. ‘Munito was a miserable
-humbug; one of those dogs who abuse the public credulity.’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘What? Munito a humbug? You astound me!’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Yes, sir; and were Munito here, I should tell him so to
-his face. Impostors and dogs of real talents should not be confounded.
-Munito did not know B from a bull’s foot, while Bianca
-has learned by rule. What she knows, she knows thoroughly.’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Is it possible Munito knew nothing, and merely concerted
-with his master to appear learned?’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘You have hit the nail on the head.’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Do you mean to tell me there are pseudo savants among
-dogs? I thought men had a monopoly of that plague.’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Dogs don’t escape it.’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Good heavens! can a fellow trust neither man nor dog?
-Do enter into particulars; and since I am doomed, it seems, to
-lose one more illusion, let the loss, at least, turn to the profit
-of my knowledge.’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘I, too, was a dupe to Munito’s merits; but one fine morning
-the scales fell from my eyes, and I discovered the truth. Like
-my Bianca—forgive me the odious comparison, dear!—Munito
-stood in the center of a circle formed of bits of pasteboard
-bearing letters, or figures, or colors. I grant you, Munito had
-a good deal of brains; he was no fool, I admit, and his ear was
-exquisitely delicate. Had he been trained by a good method,
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_100'>100</span>he would have attained high rank; but his master, who was an
-Italian, preferred turning his delicacy of hearing to profit,
-rather than bringing him up by rule.’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Ah! Munito was no classic. But, pray tell me, did he
-then belong to the romantic school?’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Not a bit more than he belonged to the classical school.
-All his talents lay in obeying his master’s signals. Munito
-walked gravely around the table, assuming the airs of a member
-of the French academy; but incapable as he was of reading
-or distinguishing colors, he never stopped to pick up the
-bit of pasteboard except when his master gave him the signal.
-Munito’s master stood with his hand in his breeches pocket.
-He would snap a finger nail or a tooth pick, and this click,
-though so slight as to escape the attention of the spectators,
-was caught by the dog’s ear, and who instantly received the
-reward of his criminal comedy. He was given a bonbon. Do
-you know of what that so-called bonbon was made? ’Twas
-nothing but bread and meat hashed fine and rolled in the shape
-of a ball; but there was no more sugar in it than there is in a
-black draught. Such cheating really deserves the brand of
-history. If you think I speak harshly of Munito, my excuse is,
-he is dead. We owe nothing but truth to dead dogs as well as
-dead men.’”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The reader will perceive that, for the best results, a systematic
-course of education is necessary rather than the teaching
-of a mere trick, to be performed at a recognized signal from
-the trainer. Presuming that the dog has been taught to fetch
-and carry, as described in the preceding chapter, and may
-thereby be considered to be well up in the rudiments of canine
-education, the following, which may be termed the “classical”
-course, would be the system of instruction—it is, indeed, the
-same as was pursued with Braque and Philax:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Having taught your dog the meaning of the words, “go
-fetch it,” “bring it,” “drop it,” “bring it back,” you will next
-teach him the names of different articles. Let us first take a
-handkerchief, and placing it upon the ground, order him to
-“bring the handkerchief,” until the name is impressed on his
-memory. Now we will add a glove, and direct the dog to
-“bring the glove.” Should he bring the handkerchief instead,
-we scold him, but should he bring the glove, we reward him.
-When he has thoroughly learned to distinguish these articles
-by name, a key may be added, and the same method of teaching
-continued. One by one other articles may be added, until the number
-is sufficiently large to make the trick entertaining. When
-he has been exercised in picking out on command the desired article
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_101'>101</span>from those-placed on the ground, hide one of them, and,
-calling the hidden article by name, order him to bring it. If,
-after examining the objects before him, he shows by his distressed
-looks that he knows the article required is not among
-the others, you may be assured he has thoroughly acquired his
-lesson. If he brings a <i>wrong</i> article, it is certain that either he
-is careless, or not sufficiently drilled.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Differences of color come next. Take, for example, a red,
-white, or blue handkerchief, and placing it on the ground, direct
-the dog to bring it, calling it by <i>color</i> as well as name. At
-first he will bring it, because he knows what the word “handkerchief”
-means, and without giving consideration to the color;
-but when you add a handkerchief of a different color, still ordering
-him to bring the former one, he will remember the new
-word and its application to the right handkerchief. Supposing
-you have commenced with the red one, and have added the
-white, should he bring the white, you say sternly, “No! the
-<i>red</i> handkerchief,” making him replace the white, and bring the
-red. Now repeat the lesson, calling at will for first one and
-then the other, until he makes no mistakes. Then add the blue
-handkerchief, and repeat the lesson. Gloves of various colors
-may then be added, one by one, in all cases naming the <i>color</i> as
-well as the article when directing him to bring it. The number
-of objects may be increased to whatever extent the patience of
-the trainer and the capacity of the pupil will admit of.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>After that it will be found convenient to teach him the names
-of the more common articles of furniture. Pointing to a table,
-you will say to him: “Go to the table.” The motion of your
-hand will probably direct him to the designated spot; and by
-repeating the lesson, he will learn to associate the name of
-“table” with that article. Of course, “chair,” “sofa,” and
-other objects may be added as he progresses.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Then he may be taught to distinguish between the meanings
-of such words as “on,” “under,” etc. This is done by emphasizing
-the prepositions as: “Put the glove <i>on</i> the chair;” “Put
-the handkerchief <i>under</i> the table,” etc., in each case repeating
-the order until he obeys correctly. If all preceding lessons
-have been thorough, he will readily comprehend all of the order
-but the <i>new</i> part, and as his attention will only be required
-by that, he will soon learn it. Then the titles of individuals, as
-“lady,” “gentleman,” and “child,” may be taught in the same
-manner, reproving his failures and rewarding his successful attempts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To secure a valuable dog against accidental or malicious injury
-from poisonous or improper food, it is well to accustom
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_102'>102</span>him to take his food from the hand of his master, or some other
-trustworthy person, and never to eat anything unless it be so
-given. This is the foundation of several tricks spoken of in a preceding
-page. After the dog’s intelligence has been so cultivated
-that he quickly understands your wishes, and has become accustomed
-to rendering implicit obedience thereto, place within
-his reach a piece of meat, or a saucer of milk, and order him not
-to touch it. Then retire to a short distance, but be ready to
-check any attempt to seize the food, by repeating the command,
-“Don’t touch it,” and by force if necessary. Do not tantalize
-him too long, but soon give him some tid-bit as a reward for his
-self-control, and repeat the lesson. By-and-by he may be left
-alone, at first only for a few minutes, then for a longer and
-longer time.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It is possible—and, indeed, it is the common method—to
-teach a dog to pick out any desired letters from a number of
-printed cards, in obedience to signals given by the exhibitor.
-This method of training is essentially the same as that adopted
-with the “educated hog;” so it is unnecessary to describe it
-here. But dogs, as in the case of those described in the preceding
-pages, may be taught to <i>know</i> the letters, and to recognize
-them when named; so that the performance can be conducted
-more openly, and without risk of the clap-trap of signals
-being detected.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>But how is this to be taught? Why, very much as a child
-is taught—by constant drilling until the name and looks of each
-letter are perfectly associated together. Pieces of pasteboard
-should be provided, on each of which one letter is marked large
-and plain. Placing the A and B cards side by side, tell the
-dog to bring you the A. If he brings the B, scold him; make
-him return it to its place, and again order him to bring the A.
-As soon as he does so, pat him, speak encouragingly to him,
-and repeat the lesson, not calling the letters in any regular rotation,
-but at random. Add letter by letter each day as the dog
-learns thoroughly those already given him, until he can select
-without hesitation any letter of the alphabet that may be called
-for. He may then be made to spell words by your calling the
-letters composing them. If thoroughly trained, he will bring
-the proper letters when shown a card on which the word you
-desire him to spell is printed. Of course, only capitals should
-be used in these exercises, for otherwise the labor of teaching
-would be doubled, besides confusing the dog between capitals
-and small letters, without gaining anything.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>On the same principle the dog may be taught what, with a
-little license, may be called playing cards. Pieces of pasteboard
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_103'>103</span>several times the size of ordinary playing cards should be
-provided, one side of each being printed to represent one card.
-As with the letters, these cards are to be placed on the floor, at
-first only two, then three, increasing the number as the dog
-learns those already shown him. Suppose the ace of clubs and
-the ace of hearts be used to commence with: direct the dog to
-bring the ace of clubs; if he does so, reward him, but if he
-brings the heart, scold him, and order him to return it; again
-directing him to bring the ace of clubs. So on with each lesson
-until he can distinguish between all the cards, and bring any
-one desired. After this, cards a little smaller may be substituted
-for those at first used, and then smaller and smaller ones
-until the customary playing cards are used. We give this feat
-on the authority of M. de Tarade, never having personally seen
-it performed, but it is really not so difficult as might at first be
-imagined; the dog, even to know the whole pack, needing only
-to learn the thirteen <i>values</i> of the cards, and to then distinguish
-between the four suits.<a id='r2' /><a href='#f2' class='c013'><sup>[2]</sup></a></p>
-
-<div class='footnote' id='f2'>
-<p class='c009'><a href='#r2'>2</a>. Even this would be a greater feat of intelligence than we have ever seen exhibited by
-a dog, and we are inclined to think there was some aid afforded in this case of the French
-dogs, by arranging the cards systematically, or by some other means. It is harder to
-count (or to distinguish between) the number of dots, than to distinguish between a blue
-handkerchief and a red stocking. The dog who is described as playing dominoes, it
-should be remembered, used only four pieces at one time. Possibly the dog recognized
-the cards by the <i>general</i> appearance of each, not the number of spots thereon.</p>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>The “playing” part consists in the trainer directing the dog
-to bring the particular card required; wherever it is pretended
-that the dog of his own accord selects the proper card for taking
-a trick, there is really deception; the dog in such a case
-must be secretly directed by signals which he has been taught
-to obey.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To teach a dog to play dominoes, provide some pieces of
-board or thick card, some eight or ten inches long, on which
-paint conspicuously in black the required dots. Having provided
-two sets in this manner, spread one set upon the floor,
-and taking in your hand the blank domino of the other set, you
-say: “Bring the white.” Being familiar, from his previous
-training, with the color, he will doubtless select the correct
-domino. Then you show him the one spot, directing him to
-“bring the one.” Should he hesitate, repeat the command,
-showing him the spot on the domino in your hand. As soon as
-he has learned this difference, cease your instruction for the
-day, as it is unwise to attempt to go too fast. On the next
-day the two, three, and four may be included in the lesson;
-and so on each day, adding two or three, until the whole are
-learned. Having learned so much, the dog is prepared to play
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_104'>104</span>a game of dominoes, for the game consists merely in matching
-certain pieces.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Munito, the dog to whom reference is made in a preceding
-page, was a French poodle, very handsome, with a fine silky,
-white, woolly coat, half shaved. A gentleman who saw him
-exhibited in Piccadilly, London, nearly fifty years ago, thus
-describes his performance, disclosing at the same time the secrets
-thereof:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“He performed many curious feats, answering questions,
-telling the hour of the day, the day of the week, or date of the
-month, and picking out any cards called for from a pack spread
-on the ground. At the corner of the room was a screen, behind
-which the dog and his master disappeared between each feat for
-a short time. We watched him narrowly; but it was not until
-after our second visit that the mystery was solved. There
-were packs of ordinary cards, and other cards with figures, and
-others with single letters. One of the spectators was requested
-to name a card—say the queen of clubs—the pack was spread
-on the floor in a circle, faces upward. Munito went around the
-circle, came to the queen of clubs, pounced upon it, and brought
-it in his mouth to his master. The same process was repeated
-with the cards with figures, when he brought the exact numbers
-which answered the questions put as to dates, or days, or
-hours; in the same way with the letter cards, when he picked
-out the necessary letters to spell any short word called for, always
-making a full circle of the whole of the cards for each letter,
-or for each number, and never taking up two letters or two
-numbers consecutively, though they might chance to lie close
-together. This fact we made out at the first visit, but nothing
-more. On the second occasion we watched more narrowly, and
-with that object took a side seat, so that we had a partial view
-behind the screen. We then noticed that between each feat the
-master gave the dog some small bits of some sort of food, and
-that there was a faint smell of aniseed from that corner of the
-room. We noticed that the dog, as he passed around the circle
-of cards, with his nose down, and his eyes directed to the ground,
-never pounced on the right card as his eyes covered it, but
-turned back and picked it out. It was clear that he chose it by
-the smell, and not by the sense of sight. We recalled that, each
-time before the dog began his circuit, the master arranged and
-settled the cards, and we then found that he pressed the fleshy
-part of his thumb on the particular card the dog was to draw,
-which thumb he previously put into his waistcoat pocket for an
-instant; and as he passed close to us, his waistcoat had an aniseed
-scent.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_105'>105</span>Dogs have been made to take part in stage representations,
-their performances being but applications of simple tricks taught
-in our tenth chapter. The good dog who recognizes the murderer
-of his master and seizes him by the throat; the other
-good dog who prevents an assassination by flying at the would-be
-assassin, and having a scuffle; and the still other good dog
-who rescues the child from drowning, or some other impending
-danger, are all “worked” by signals, or obey understood commands—the
-actor’s “cue” serving as well as any other word.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>An amusing story is told of an accident which befell a penurious
-manager of a minor play-house, in endeavoring to avoid
-an engagement with the owner of the wonderful dogs, when
-<i>their</i> services and not <i>his</i> were to constitute the principal attraction.
-The owner persisted; it must be his dogs <i>and</i> himself,
-or no dogs at all; the sagacious animals would perform
-their marvels with no one else. The huckstering manager
-doubted this, and craved permission to try whether, by running
-across the room, and using the words repeated by the owner in
-the play, one of the animals would not seize <i>him</i> by the coat
-collar as well, without doing him any injury. The master consented,
-but the experiment failed entirely. The dog remained
-doggedly motionless. “It strikes me,” said the disappointed
-manager, “that if you were to say, ‘Go, sir!’ in a harsh tone,
-when I repeat the words, that he would at once perform the
-feat.” “Very well, sir,” replied the owner, “we will try the
-experiment, if you wish it.” The preliminaries were again
-gone through with; and the master said, “Go, sir!” The gigantic
-dog <i>did</i> go with a vengeance. He dashed off like an
-arrow; seized the manager by the nape of his neck, threw him
-violently on the floor, and giving two or three tremendous
-growls, seemed on the point of making mince-meat of his prey,
-who, petrified with fright, was glad enough to be rescued, and
-to permit the master to perform with his dogs, and on his own
-terms. He never was quite satisfied, however, that there was
-not some <i>peculiarity</i> in the “Go, sir,” used on that particular
-occasion.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id004'>
-<img src='images/i101.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_106'>106</span>
-  <h2 id='XII' class='c007'>CHAPTER XII.<br /> <span class='large'>TAMING AND TRAINING ELEPHANTS—CAPTURE AND TREATMENT—ELEPHANTS AS LABORERS AND AS CIRCUS PERFORMERS.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>In telling how elephants are trained, so interwoven is our
-subject with that of the capture of the animals, that perhaps
-our best plan will be to take a hint from Mrs. Glass’s recipe
-for cooking the hare, viz., catch him first—and commence
-with the capture of the animals. Although authentic instances
-are on record of elephants breeding in captivity, it is of very
-rare occurrence, so that, practically, it may be said that the entire
-supply of domesticated elephants has been obtained by
-conversion from a wild state.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The device of taking them in pitfalls still prevails in India,
-but this is a laborious operation, often unsuccessful, owing to
-the caution of the animal; besides this, if caught, the great
-weight of the elephant, and the inability of his legs to withstand
-any severe direct shock, too frequently cause so much injury to
-the game as to render this mode of capture unprofitable. A
-writer on Ceylon, nearly two hundred years ago, describes another
-method which is still practiced. Describing the captures
-of elephants for the stud of the king of Kandy, he says:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“After discovering the retreat of such as have tusks, unto
-these they drive some she elephants, which they bring with
-them for the purpose, which, when once the males have got a
-sight of they will never leave, but follow them wheresoever
-they go; and the females are so used to it, that they will do
-whatsoever, either by word or beck, their keepers bid them.
-And so they delude them along through towns and countries,
-and through the streets of the city, even to the very gates of
-the king’s palace, where sometimes they seize them by snares,
-and sometimes by driving them into a kind of pound, they catch
-them.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Throughout the China-Indian peninsula the natives use female
-elephants in approaching males detached from the herd,
-or selected as desired captives on account of their beauty—the
-capture being effected by casting a noose over the foot of the
-victim. Probably, however, the Moormen of Ceylon are unexcelled
-in daring or adroitness in this vocation. So fearless are
-these professional catchers, or panickeas as they are termed,
-that two will, without aid or attendants, attempt the capture of
-the largest sized elephant. Their only weapon is a flexible
-rope of deer’s or buffalo’s hide. Stealing behind the animal
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_107'>107</span>when at rest, or stealthily following in his footsteps if in motion,
-they attach this rope to his hind legs. When at rest the
-elephant has a habit of swinging his hind feet, which aids the
-catchers in slipping the noose over the leg. Should the
-noosing be effected in open ground where there is no tree to
-which to secure the prize, one man allows himself to be pursued
-by the enraged elephant, and thus entices him to a more
-favorable locality, where the other man seizes the trailing rope
-and winds it around some convenient tree. The animal now
-turns upon his new assailant, but the first provokes him with
-gesticulations and taunting shouts of “dah! dah!” of which
-word the animal has a remarkable dislike. Meanwhile, the
-man’s comrade has secured the first noose, entangles one foot
-after the other until all are secured, and the capture complete.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Then a shelter of branches is put up for the men, and day
-and night they remain encamped before their prisoner. The
-elephant, in a few days at the farthest, becomes submissive,
-subdued by exhaustion and hunger, the terror of the fire which
-he dreads, and the smoke which he detests. Then an abundance
-of plantains and other dainties are given him, he is supplied
-with plenty of water, of which he is very fond, and gradually
-he becomes reconciled to his keepers, and finally they
-venture to start with their huge prisoner for their own village,
-generally many miles away, with forests and jungles intervening.
-Still too morose to permit his captors to ride him, and
-too powerful to be led or driven, this forced march taxes the
-ingenuity of the hunters to the utmost. Alternately vexing
-and eluding him, they keep his attention constantly attracted,
-and so induce him to move in the desired direction. The rope
-with which the capture was effected is of some assistance, besides
-being used to tie up the animal at night, and this is never
-removed from his leg until he is sufficiently tame to be entrusted
-with partial liberty.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_108'>108</span>
-<img src='images/i104a.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>GROUND PLAN OF A CORRAL.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i104b.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>METHOD OF FENCING A CORRAL.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Frequently a whole herd, numbering from thirty to one hundred
-individuals, is captured at once, but in this case a different
-plan from the foregoing is adopted. The custom in Bengal is
-to construct a strong enclosure (called a keddah) in the heart
-of the forest, formed of the trunks of trees firmly secured by
-transverse beams and buttresses, and leaving a gate for the entrance
-of the elephants. A second enclosure, opening from the
-first, contains water (if possible a rivulet;) this again communicates
-with a third, which terminates in a funnel-shaped passage,
-too narrow to admit of an elephant turning, and within
-this the captives being driven in line, are secured with ropes
-introduced from the outside, and led away in custody of tamed
-ones trained for the purpose. The keddah being prepared, the
-first operation is to drive the elephants toward it, for which
-purpose vast bodies of men fetch a compass in the forest around
-the haunts of the herds, contracting it by degrees till they complete
-the enclosure of a certain area, round which they kindle
-fires, and cut footpaths through the jungle, to enable the watchers
-to communicate and combine. All this is performed in cautious
-silence and by slow approaches, to avoid alarming the
-herd. A fresh circle nearer to the keddah is then formed in the
-same way, and into this the elephants are admitted from the
-first one, the hunters following from behind, and lighting new
-fires around the newly enclosed space. Day after day the process
-is repeated; till the drove having been brought sufficiently
-close to make the final rush, the whole party close in from all
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_109'>109</span>sides, and with drums, guns, shouts, and flambeaux, force the
-terrified animals to enter the fatal enclosure, when the passage
-is barred behind them, and retreat rendered impossible. Their
-efforts to escape are repressed by the crowd, who drive them
-back from the stockade with spears and flaming torches; and
-at last compel them to pass on into the second enclosure.
-Here they are detained for a short time, and their feverish exhaustion
-relieved by free access to water—until at last, being
-tempted by food, or otherwise induced to trust themselves in
-the narrow outlet, they are one after another made fast by ropes,
-passed in through the palisade, and picketed in the adjoining
-woods to enter on their course of systematic training. These
-arrangements vary in different districts of Bengal; and the
-method adopted in Ceylon differs in many essential particulars
-from them all; the keddah, or, as it is here called, the corral or
-korahl (from the Portuguese curral, a “cattle-pen,”) consists
-of but one enclosure instead of three. A stream or watering
-place is not uniformly enclosed within it, because, although water
-is indispensable after the long thirst and exhaustion of the
-captives, it has been found that a pond or rivulet within the
-corral itself adds to the difficulty of leading them out, and increases
-their reluctance to leave it; besides which, the smaller
-ones are often smothered by the others in their eagerness to
-crowd into the water. The funnel-shaped outlet is also dispensed
-with, as the animals are liable to bruise and injure themselves
-within the narrow stockade; and should one of them die
-in it, as is too often the case in the midst of the struggle, the
-difficulty of removing so great a carcass is extreme. The
-noosing and securing them, therefore, takes place in Ceylon
-within the area of the first enclosure into which they enter, and
-the dexterity and daring displayed in this portion of the work
-far surpasses that of merely attaching the rope through the
-openings of the paling, as in an Indian keddah, and affords a
-much more exciting sport.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In Ceylon, in former times, the work connected with these
-hunts was performed by forced labor extorted from the natives
-by their sovereigns as a part of the feudal service termed “rajakaríya,”
-and this labor was in succession demanded by the Portuguese,
-Dutch and English, as the island passed successively
-into their possession. Since the abolition of this compulsory
-duty, there has been no difficulty in securing all required
-assistance voluntarily. From fifteen hundred to two thousand
-men are required to construct the corral, drive in the elephants,
-maintain the cordon of watch-fires and watchers, and attend to
-other duties.  Many weeks are occupied in putting up the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_110'>110</span>stockades, cutting paths through the jungle, and surrounding
-and driving in the elephants.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i106.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>POSITION OFTEN TAKEN IN ATTEMPTING TO BREAK THE ROPE.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>In selecting the scene for an elephant hunt a position is
-chosen which lies on some old and frequented route of the animals,
-in their periodical migrations in search of forage and water;
-and the vicinity of a stream is indispensable, not only for
-the supply of the elephants during the time spent in inducing
-them to approach the enclosure, but to enable them to bathe
-and cool themselves throughout the process of training after
-capture. In constructing the corral itself, care is taken to avoid
-disturbing the trees or the brushwood within the included space,
-and especially on the side by which the elephants are to approach,
-where it is essential to conceal the stockade as much as
-possible by the density of the foliage. The trees used in the
-structure are from ten to twelve inches in diameter; and are
-sunk about three feet in the earth, so as to leave a length of
-from twelve to fifteen feet above ground; with spaces between
-each stanchion sufficiently wide to permit a man to glide
-through. The uprights are made fast by transverse beams, to
-which they are lashed securely by ratans and flexible climbing
-plants, or as they are called, “jungle ropes,” and the whole is
-steadied by means of forked supports which grasp the tie beams,
-and prevent the work from being driven outward by the rush
-of the wild elephants.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_111'>111</span>The space enclosed varies, but 500 feet in length by 250
-wide is a fair average. At one end an entrance is left open,
-fitted with sliding bars, so prepared as to be capable of being
-instantly shut; and from each angle of the end by which the
-elephants were to approach, two lines of the same strong fencing
-were continued, and cautiously concealed by the trees, so
-that the animals would be prevented from making their escape
-at the sides while being forced forward to the entrance of the
-corral.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The corral being prepared, the beaters address themselves to
-driving in the elephants. For this purpose it is often necessary
-to make a circuit of many miles in order to surround a sufficient
-number, and the caution to be observed involves patience and
-delay; as it is essential to avoid alarming the animals, who
-might otherwise escape. Their disposition being essentially
-peaceful, and their only impulse to browse in solitude and security,
-they withdraw instinctively before the slightest intrusion,
-and advantage is taken of this timidity and love of seclusion
-to cause only just such an amount of disturbance as will
-induce them to retire slowly in the direction which it is desired
-they should take. Several herds are by this means concentrated
-within such an area as will admit of their being completely
-surrounded by the watchers; and day after day, by slow degrees,
-they are moved gradually onward toward the immediate
-confines of the corral. When their suspicions become awakened
-and they exhibit restlessness and alarm, bolder measures
-are adopted for preventing their escape. Fires are kept burning
-at ten paces apart, night and day, along the circumference
-of the area within which they are detained. At last the elephants
-are forced onward so close to the enclosure, that the
-investing cordon is united at either end with the wings of the
-corral, the whole forming a circuit of about two miles, within
-which the herd is detained to await the signal for the final
-drive.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Suddenly the signal is given, and the silence is broken by
-shouts from the guard, the banging of drums and tom-toms, and
-the discharge of muskets. Amid this noise the elephants are
-driven forward to and through the gate, which is instantly
-closed to cut off their retreat. In a moment more they rush
-wildly about the enclosure, trampling the brushwood beneath
-their ponderous tread, and charge against the palisades, screaming
-with rage at each unsuccessful effort. By degrees their
-efforts slacken, and in about an hour the whole herd, exhausted
-and stupified, stand motionless.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_112'>112</span>
-<img src='images/i108.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>SECURING CAPTURED ELEPHANTS WITH THE AID OF THE TAME ONES.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>The next operation is to introduce the tame elephants into
-the corral to aid in securing the captives. Cautiously the bars
-which secure the entrance are let down, and the trained elephants,
-each mounted by its mahout and one attendant, enter
-the corral. Around the elephant’s neck is a strong collar composed
-of ropes of coconut fiber, from which hangs on either side
-cords of elk’s hide prepared with a ready noose. Gradually
-each trained animal approaches one of the wild ones, until being
-sufficiently near, the nooser watching his opportunity, slips
-the noose over one of its legs. Immediately the tame elephant
-retires with its riders, drawing the rope tight, and hauling the
-captive toward some large tree. In this the other tame animals
-lend assistance, pushing with their heads and shoulders.
-The first tame one now winds the rope around the tree, and
-the others crowd up to the wild animal, and keep him in position
-while his other legs are being secured. The tame elephants
-in all these proceedings appear to feel a sportsman’s interest,
-and are as eager to secure the victim as are their human assistants.
-Of their own accord they will perform any act which
-reason would naturally suggest for overcoming any difficulty
-that arises, or which seems necessary under any given circumstances.
-Thus Major Skinner relates an instance where a wild
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_113'>113</span>elephant raised with her trunk the rope which had been attached
-to her foot, succeeded in carrying it to her mouth, and
-would have bitten it through and escaped, but was prevented
-by a tame elephant placing his foot on the rope, and pressing it
-downward out of her jaws. On another occasion, the same authority
-says a tame animal watched her opportunity, and placed
-her foot under that of the wild one as he raised it, so as to prevent
-his replacing it upon the ground, enabling the nooser to
-attach the rope.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In all this though the tame elephants bend all their energies
-to securing the captives, and seem to really enjoy what is going
-on, they show no malignity, carefully avoid doing any injury to
-the prisoners, and even when it is necessary in binding new animals
-to walk over those already secured—usually sprawling
-on the ground struggling to get free—they take the utmost
-pains not to tread on them.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>When first secured, the elephant struggles fiercely to break
-his bonds, writhing in a manner one would think impossible for
-so bulky and unwieldly an animal. Failing in this, he seems
-to give way to despair, and utters the most pitiable moans.
-Food is now placed within their reach, which at first they spurn
-indignantly, the older ones frequently trampling it under foot.
-The milder ones, as they become composed, allow themselves
-to be tempted by the delicacies before them, and commence listlessly
-chewing the juicy morsels. The mellow notes of a kandyan
-flute sometimes aid in soothing and composing the captives.
-It may be remarked that elephants are greatly influenced
-by music, being soothed and quieted by soft plaintive melodies,
-while it is also recorded that in the old wars in which they were
-used, their courage in battle was excited by the martial strains.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The last operation of the corral is to slacken the ropes and
-march each captive elephant down to the river between two
-tame ones. Both of the tame elephants are furnished with
-strong collars, and a similar collar is formed on the neck of the
-wild one, who stands between them, by successive coils of coconut;
-then these collars are connected, and the prisoner made
-secure between his guards. Then the nooses which have confined
-his feet are removed, and the three animals march to the
-river, where they are allowed to bathe. After the bath the
-captive elephant is made fast to some tree in the forest, keepers
-are assigned to him, as well as a retinue of leaf-cutters, whose
-duty it is to keep him supplied with such food as he most relishes.
-These arrangements being made, he is left to the care
-of his new masters, who will see that he is trained up in the
-way he should go.</p>
-
-<div>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_114'>114</span>
-  <h3 class='c011'>THE WAY THAT ELEPHANTS ARE TRAINED.</h3>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c012'>It is a very general impression that the training of these
-huge and powerful animals is a work of great difficulty and
-tediousness. This is a mistake. Elephants are naturally of a
-mild and docile nature, although hunters and travelers, to add
-luster to their own exploits, have represented them otherwise.
-Even the notorious “rogues”<a id='r3' /><a href='#f3' class='c013'><sup>[3]</sup></a> are not such wholly bad fellows
-as has been asserted by some of these writers, and the
-Mayne Reid style of natural history must be taken with considerable
-allowance. In their wild state it is very seldom that
-they attack any person or animal, unless provoked or assailed,
-and even when some heroic hunter sneaks up to shoot them unawares,
-or from some secure position peppers them with his
-rifle, the animals usually appear only anxious to escape from
-their aggressor.<a id='r4' /><a href='#f4' class='c013'><sup>[4]</sup></a></p>
-
-<div class='footnote' id='f3'>
-<p class='c009'><a href='#r3'>3</a>. Most readers are familiar with the term “rogue” as applied to elephants, but probably
-some are not aware of its exact meaning. A <i>herd</i> of elephants is a family, and not a
-group collected by accident or attachment. The usual number of individuals in a herd
-is from ten to twenty, though the latter number is sometimes exceeded. In their visits to
-water-courses and migrations, alliances are formed between members of different herds,
-thus introducing new blood into the family. If an individual becomes separated from his
-herd, however, he is not permitted to introduce himself into another. He may browse in
-their vicinity, or resort to the same stream to bathe or drink, but farther than this no acquaintance
-is allowed. An elephant who has lost his herd, and is by this habit of exclusiveness
-made an outcast, is a “rogue,” and this ban under which he suffers tends to
-excite that moroseness and savageness for which rogues are noted. Another conjecture
-is, that as rogues are almost always males, the death or capture of particular females has
-led them to leave their herds to seek new alliances. A tame elephant escaping from captivity,
-unable to find his former companions, becomes of necessity a rogue.</p>
-</div>
-
-<div class='footnote' id='f4'>
-<p class='c009'><a href='#r4'>4</a>. We could never experience any other feelings than disgust at the cruelty, and pity for
-the animals, at reading the sickening details with which, with a slaughter-house gusto,
-certain heroes have graced the narratives of their exploits. Gordon Cummings gives an account
-of his pursuit of a wounded elephant which he had lamed by lodging a ball in its
-shoulder blade. It limped slowly toward a tree, against which it leaned itself in helpless
-agony, whilst its pursuer seated himself in front of it, in safety, to boil his coffee, and observe
-its sufferings. The story is continued as follows: “Having admired him for a
-considerable time, I resolved to make experiments on vulnerable points; and approaching
-very near I fired several bullets at different parts of his enormous skull. He only acknowledged
-the shots by a salaam-like movement of his trunk, with the point of which
-he gently touched the wounds with a striking and peculiar action. Surprised and shocked
-at finding that I was only prolonging the sufferings of the noble beast, which bore its
-trials with such dignified composure, I resolved to finish the proceeding with all possible
-despatch, and accordingly opened fire upon him from the left side, aiming at the shoulder.
-I first fired six shots with the two-grooved rifle, which must have eventually proved mortal.
-After which I fired six shots at the same part with the Dutch six-pounder. Large
-tears now trickled from his eyes, which he slowly shut and opened, his colossal frame
-shivered convulsively, and falling on his side, he expired.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In another place, after detailing the manner in which he assailed a poor animal, he says:
-“I was loading and firing as fast as could be, sometimes at the head, sometimes behind
-the shoulder, until my elephant’s forequarter was a mass of gore: notwithstanding which
-he continued to hold on, leaving the grass and branches of the forest scarlet in his wake.&nbsp;*&nbsp;*&nbsp;*&nbsp;*&nbsp;*
-Having fired thirty-five rounds with my two-grooved rifle, I opened upon
-him with the Dutch six-pounder, and when forty bullets perforated his hide, he began for
-the first time to evince signs of a dilapidated constitution.” The disgusting description
-is closed thus: “Throughout the charge he repeatedly cooled his person with large
-quantities of water, which he ejected from his trunk over his sides and back, and just as
-the pangs of death came over him, he stood trembling violently beside a thorn tree, and
-kept pouring water into his bloody mouth until he died, when he pitched heavily forward
-with the whole weight of his fore-quarters resting on the points of his tusks. The strain
-was fair, and the tusks did not yield; but the portion of his head in which the tusks were
-imbedded, extending a long way above the eye, yielded and burst with a muffled crash.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Sport” is noble, but a butcher is not necessarily a sportsman, and a useless destruction
-of life, where no more danger is incurred than in a butcher’s shambles, is not an absolute
-proof of courage or heroism, and the “noble hunters” have not the butcher’s excuse
-for the bloodshed. Whatever of heroism there is in these encounters, we cannot help
-thinking, is displayed by the elephants, and not by their aggressors. For a hunter to put
-such achievements as we have just quoted on record merely displays the egotism and
-cruelty of the man.</p>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_115'>115</span>The training is simple, and the intelligence and obedience of
-the pupil are developed with remarkable rapidity. For the first
-three days, or until they will eat freely, which they seldom do
-in a shorter time, the newly captured elephants are allowed to
-remain perfectly quiet; and if practicable, a tame elephant is
-tied near them to give the wild ones confidence. Where many
-elephants are being trained at once, it is customary to put each
-new captive between the stalls of half-tamed ones, thereby inducing
-it to more readily take to its food. The next stage of
-the training process is commenced by placing a tame elephant
-on each side of the pupil, with the “cooroowe vidahn,” or head
-of the stables, standing in front, holding a long stick with a
-sharp iron point. Two men are then stationed one on either
-side, each holding an iron instrument furnished with both a
-sharp point and a hook. This is called a “hendoo” in Ceylon,
-and a “hawkus” in Bengal, and is the principal weapon used
-in guiding and controlling elephants, as it has been from very
-ancient times. This instrument is held toward the animal’s
-trunk, while one or two assistants rub their hands over his
-back, keeping up while doing so a soothing and plaintive chant,
-interspersed with endearing epithets, such as, “ho! my son,” or
-“ho! my father,” or “my mother,” as may be applicable to the
-age and sex of the captive. At first the elephant is furious, and
-strikes in all directions with his trunk; but the men in front
-receiving these blows on the points of their weapons, the extremity
-of the trunk becomes so sore that
-the animal curls it up close, and seldom
-afterward attempts to use it offensively.
-The first dread of man’s power being thus
-established, the process of taking him to
-bathe between two tame elephants is greatly
-facilitated, and by lengthening the neck
-rope, and drawing the feet together as close
-as possible, the process of laying him down
-in the water is finally accomplished by the
-keepers pressing the sharp points of their
-hendoos over the backbone.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i111.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>MEDAL OF NUMIDIA, GIVING A REPRESENTATION OF AN ANCIENT HENDOO.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>For many days the roaring and resistance which attend the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_116'>116</span>operation are considerable, and it often requires the sagacious
-interference of the tame elephants to control the refractory wild
-ones. It soon, however, becomes
-practicable to leave the latter
-alone, only taking them to and
-from the stall by the aid of a
-decoy. This step lasts, under ordinary treatment, for about
-three weeks, when an elephant may be taken alone with his
-legs hobbled, and a man walking backward in front with the
-point of the hendoo always presented to the elephant’s head,
-and a keeper with an iron crook at each ear. On getting into
-the water, the fear of being pricked on his tender back induces
-him to lie down immediately on the crook being held over him
-<span lang="la" xml:lang="la">in terrorem</span>. Once this point has been achieved, the farther
-process of taming is dependent upon the disposition of the
-creature.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i112.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>MODERN HENDOO.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>The greatest care is requisite, and daily medicines are applied
-to heal the fearful wounds on the legs which even the
-softest ropes occasion. This is the great difficulty of training;
-for the wounds fester grievously, and months and sometimes
-years will elapse before an elephant will allow his feet to be
-touched without indications of alarm and anger.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The observation has been frequently made that the elephants
-most vicious and troublesome to tame, and the most worthless
-when tamed, are those distinguished by a thin trunk and flabby
-pendulous ears. The period of tuition does not appear to be influenced
-by the size or strength of the animals: some of the
-smallest give the greatest amount of trouble; whereas, in the
-instance of the two largest that have been taken in Ceylon
-within the last thirty years, both were docile in a remarkable
-degree. One in particular, fed from the hand the first night it
-was secured, and in a very few days evinced pleasure on being
-patted on the head. The males are generally more unmanageable
-than the females, and in both an inclination to lie down to
-rest is regarded as a favorable symptom of approaching tractability,
-some of the most resolute having been known to stand
-for months together, even during sleep. Those which are the
-most obstinate and violent at first are the soonest and most
-effectually subdued, and generally prove permanently docile
-and submissive. But those which are sullen or morose, although
-they may not provoke chastisement by their viciousness,
-are always slower in being trained, and are rarely to be trusted
-in after life.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>But whatever may be his natural gentleness and docility, the
-temper of an elephant is seldom to be implicitly relied on in a
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_117'>117</span>state of captivity and coercion. The most amenable are subject
-to occasional fits of stubbornness; and even after years of
-submission, irritability and resentment will sometimes unaccountably
-manifest themselves. It may be that the restraints
-and severer discipline of training have not been entirely forgotten;
-or that incidents which in ordinary health would be productive
-of no demonstration whatever, may lead, in moments
-of temporary illness, to fretfulness and anger.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In his native country the first employment to which an elephant
-is put is treading clay in a brick-field, or to draw a wagon
-in double harness with a tame elephant. After this he is promoted
-to moving heavy stones or other material, or in piling
-lumber. In these occupations he has an opportunity to display
-that natural sagacity for which he is noted. It is only necessary
-to make him understand the object desired to be accomplished,
-and he will himself devise means to attain that result.
-In the detail of the work it is seldom necessary to prompt him,
-and he will even resent an attempt to compel him to adopt a
-different plan from the one he has selected. His trunk is the
-instrument on which he principally relies for moving timber
-and masses of rock; his tusks, if he possess them, are also of
-service. Most persons entertain an exaggerated opinion of the
-elephant’s strength. It is currently believed that with but
-slight exertion he can uproot forest trees, and is in the habit of
-doing so as a species of mild recreation. It is true he is of
-considerable service in clearing paths through the jungle, but
-the removal of even a small tree is a matter of both time and
-labor. Another common error is the assumption that elephants
-are so thoroughly creatures of habit, that their movements are
-purely mechanical, and that any deviation from accustomed
-ways is excessively annoying and disconcerting to them. The
-best informed authorities assert that changes of treatment, or
-of hours of occupation, are as easily made as with a horse.
-Still another mistake, derived no doubt from the intelligence
-and earnestness he displays in work, is the idea that he actually
-enjoys his labor, and will perform his task as faithfully in the
-absence of his keeper as when he is present. The elephant,
-however, loves his ease, and unless his attendant has a watchful
-eye upon him, he will, on completing the task immediately
-in hand, stroll off to browse, or to enjoy the luxury of blowing
-dust over his back.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The impulse of obedience is very strikingly manifested in
-the patience with which, at the command of his keeper, he will
-swallow the nauseating medicines of the native elephant doctors.
-The fortitude with which he submits to excruciating
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_118'>118</span>surgical operations for the relief of ulcers, would indicate that
-he comprehends in a measure the purpose of them. Obedience
-to his keeper’s orders is not in all cases proof of a perception of
-the object to be attained by compliance. This is shown in the
-touching incident which took place at the slaughter of the elephant
-at Exeter, England, when after receiving fully one
-hundred and twenty balls in various parts of his body, and these
-proving ineffectual to end his existence, he turned his face to
-his assailants on hearing the voice of his keeper, and kneeled
-down at the accustomed word of command, so as to bring his
-forehead within view of the rifles.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The affection for his keeper is a great incentive to obedience
-on the part of the elephant, but although this attachment is
-often great, there is not that unwillingness to transfer his affection
-and obedience to a new keeper, which has been very frequently
-asserted. If treated with equal kindness he will obey
-readily and acquire an affection for a new attendant as soon as
-he becomes familiar with his voice. He no doubt often remembers
-an old friend and many of the anecdotes told of elephants
-recognizing an old keeper from whom they have long been
-parted, and being rejoiced thereat, are doubtless true. Founded
-on very good authority is the story of an animal of particularly
-stubborn disposition who, on the death of his keeper, refused to
-obey any other, until some attendants bethought them of a boy
-some twelve years old in a distant village where the elephant
-had been formerly picketed, and to whom it had displayed considerable
-attachment. The child was sent for, and on his arrival
-was immediately recognized with many manifestations of pleasure
-and to him the elephant yielded obedience, until by degrees he
-became reconciled to a new keeper.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>HOW “HUNTING ELEPHANTS” ARE TRAINED.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>Probably all readers are familiar with the fact that, in their
-native countries, elephants are not only used to aid in the capture
-of their own species, but also in the pursuit of various wild
-beasts of the jungle. In tiger hunting especially is this the
-case, and this sport furnishes one of the chief and most exciting
-amusements of the English troops in India. In this sport the
-elephant is rather an unwilling participant. In his wild state
-there is no occasion for any conflict between himself and other
-dwellers of the forest. Living entirely on vegetable food, and
-so under no necessity of preying upon other animals; too
-peaceful to molest others, and too powerful to be molested by
-them, in a state of nature each seems anxious to avoid rather
-than to provoke any encounter. Should a tiger and an elephant
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_119'>119</span>meet in the jungle each would probably be only anxious to get
-out of the other’s way as quickly as possible.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The principal difficulty in training elephants for hunting is to
-overcome the excessive antipathy, and even dread, they entertain
-toward tigers. To accomplish this a tiger’s skin is stuffed
-and placed partially concealed among the undergrowth skirting
-some road. Along the road the elephant is then conducted;
-always observant, he quickly detects the unwelcome neighbor
-and considerable urging is required to induce him to pass it.
-After passing it several times he becomes more indifferent to its
-presence and may be gradually induced to approach it. Then
-he is made to turn it over and get thoroughly familiar with it;
-this accustoms him to the tiger in a state of quietude. Then
-the stuffed figure is thrown toward him and he is taught to
-receive it upon his tusks. The next lesson may be to drive his
-tusks into the body. The last operation is to teach the elephant
-to allow the stuffed tiger to be placed upon his back; this is the
-most difficult part of all.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>When the elephant is properly trained and ready for service
-the hunter takes his place in the howdah—a sort of box-seat
-fastened on the animal’s back—while the mahout sits astride the
-neck. Behind the hunter, in the howdah, rides the shikaree, or
-native gun carrier, whose duty it is to “play second fiddle” in
-the expedition. A number of natives are also usually employed
-as “beaters” to start the game. These men go on foot, seeking
-safety, in case of danger, by climbing trees or by being
-lifted up by the elephant upon his back. The elephants are
-now formed in line and the jungle beaten, in all parts if a small
-one, or if very extensive in those portions only which appear
-most likely to contain game. As soon as a tiger is started the
-line advances upon him, each hunter watching for an opportunity
-to fire as his elephant charges. Notwithstanding the most
-careful training instinct often proves an overmatch for the elephant’s
-education and, he takes to flight in spite of all the driver’s
-efforts to prevent him. One hunter relates an incident of
-his elephant being seized with a panic and dumping hunter,
-driver and all upon his back, into the very midst of a number
-of tigers which the party were in pursuit of.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In taking a dead tiger home the elephant lies on his side
-until the body is fastened to him, and then rises with it.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The liability to be seized with a panic at trifling circumstances
-is probably due in a measure to the elephant’s limited range of
-vision, the short neck preventing his looking much above the
-level of his head. An anecdote illustrative of this is told by
-Sir J. E. Tennent: “In 1841 an officer was chased by an
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_120'>120</span>elephant that he had slightly wounded. Seizing him near the
-dry bed of a river, the animal had his fore foot already raised
-to crush him; but its forehead being touched at the same
-instant by the tendrils of a climbing plant which had suspended
-itself from the branches above, it suddenly turned and fled,
-leaving him bodily hurt, but with no limbs broken.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Elephants seldom use their tusks as weapons unless they have
-been trained to do so; their vertical position, and the structure
-of the neck preventing their being effective unless the object of
-attack being directly below them. The stories told of the
-execution of criminals by elephants when Ceylon was under the
-rule of native kings, generally describe the elephant as killing
-the victim by running its tusks through his body. An eye-witness
-of one of these executions, however, says the animal
-never used his tusks at all, but placed his foot upon the prostrate
-man and tore off his limbs in succession by a sudden
-movement of the trunk. Hunters have frequently described
-their escape from elephants when the latter might easily have
-killed them by a thrust of their tusks, but apparently did not
-even know how to use them for that purpose.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The elephant’s dependence is really upon his trunk and his
-ponderous feet. It is related that in an encounter between two
-elephants, one a tusker and the other without tusks, the latter
-proved the victor, breaking off one of the former’s tusks with
-his trunk.</p>
-
-<h3 class='c011'>PERFORMING ELEPHANTS.</h3>
-
-<p class='c012'>From very early times elephants have not only been used in
-war, in industrial pursuits, and to add to the pomp and display
-of powerful rulers, but ages ago they were made to amuse the
-multitude by performances not very dissimilar to those witnessed
-in our modern circuses. An old Roman writer describes a
-number of elephants exhibited in Rome by a nephew of the
-emperor Tiberius, who were taught “to twist their limbs and to
-bend them like a stage dancer,”—Roman stage dancers could
-not have been remarkable for grace or agility we should fancy—“the
-whole troop came forward from this and that side of the
-theater, and divided themselves into parties; they advanced
-walking with a mincing gait, and exhibiting in their whole bodies
-and persons the manners of a beau, clothed in the flowery dresses
-of dancers; and on the ballet master giving a signal with
-his voice they fell into line and went round in a circle, and if it
-were necessary to display they did so. They ornamented the
-floor of the stage by throwing flowers upon it, and beat a measure
-with their feet and keep time together.” Another feature
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_121'>121</span>of the entertainment was a banquet prepared for the elephants;
-“tables were placed then of sweet smelling wood and
-ivory very superb,” with goblets “very expensive, and bowls
-of gold and silver.” When all was ready the banqueters came
-forward, six male and an equal number of female elephants;
-the former had on a male dress and the latter a female; and on
-the signal being given they stretched forward their trunks in a
-subdued manner, and took their food in great moderation.
-The last exploit of these animals related by an old Roman was
-writing on tablets with their trunks, “neither looking awry or
-turning aside. The hand, however, of the teacher was placed
-so as to be a guide in the formation of the letters; and while it
-was writing the animal kept its eye fixed down in an accomplished
-and scholarlike manner.”</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i117.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>PERFORMING ELEPHANT.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>In addition to the training elephants receive immediately after
-their capture, and which we have described, very little instruction
-is required to prepare them for those performances which
-delight circus-goers. The performances in question consist
-usually of lying down, walking on their legs, standing on the
-head, walking up an inclined plane formed of a narrow plank,
-standing on a pedestal, holding a rope for a dancer or acrobat
-to perform upon, and similar feats. These are nearly all but
-modifications of his labors when a captive in his native country.
-Holding a line for a gymnast is not very different to the elephant
-from doing the same thing to draw a load or raise a weight.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In compelling the elephant to perform these acts advantage
-is taken of the fact that the feet of the elephant are peculiarly
-sensitive and he dreads any injury to them. While a spear held
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_122'>122</span>at his head will cause him little uneasiness, if the same be
-directed toward his feet it will cause him to display evident
-symptoms of anxiety. So by threatened attacks he may be
-induced to move in any desired direction. By tapping them
-gently from below he may be made to raise them; and by
-persevering he is made to raise both hind feet—lowering his head
-as a natural result of this rear movement—and thus is accomplished
-the feat of standing on his head. In the pedestal performance
-the pedestal is comparatively low, and with the upper
-surface of just sufficient area to accommodate the elephants
-four feet, placed close together. He is first made to place one
-fore foot upon this, then the other, and then in succession
-the two hind feet. The trainer must be watchful and prevent
-the elephant’s very natural attempt to replace his fore feet on
-the ground when he places his hind one on the pedestal. This
-is done by striking his toes whenever he makes the attempt.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i118.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>PERFORMING ELEPHANT.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>The delicacy of touch possessed by the elephant’s trunk
-enables him to use it for many purposes with as much dexterity
-as a human being would his hands. Thus he easily performs
-the amusing trick of opening and drinking a bottle of soda
-water; holding the bottle with his feet while he removes the
-cork with his trunk and then lifting the bottle in his trunk and
-pouring the contents down his throat. Similar tricks are readily
-acquired by the elephant without any particular training,
-all that is necessary in the soda-water trick is to let him know
-there is something in the bottle and his ingenuity may be
-depended upon to get at the contents. We some years ago
-witnessed a novel feat at a circus. A small table was brought
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_123'>123</span>into the ring and the clown seated himself on one side of it.
-On the other side the elephant who had been performing squatted
-on his haunches. The “supes” then brought in plates of
-apples, bread, etc., and arranged them on the table. A large
-two-pronged fork was now handed to the elephant, and with this
-he dexterously “speared” his provender and conveyed it to his
-mouth. This appeared quite wonderful, and was hailed with
-rounds of applause, but it was a trick very easily taught. The
-animal had been first given apples on a fork, and not being
-allowed to eat them except on taking them off the fork with his
-mouth he soon learned to do so. Then he was given the fork,
-and the apples placed before him, his trunk was guided by his
-trainer’s hand to strike the fork into the apple and then he was
-allowed to carry it to his mouth. If the apples be good ones
-he will soon learn to do all this without prompting, and will
-very willingly perform the trick for the sake of the “perquisites.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>We do not imagine that many of our readers will have occasion
-to train an elephant; still there is often an opportunity
-afforded at traveling exhibitions, should you desire it, to make
-an elephant go through a little performance for you, such as picking
-up your hat, catching apples or nuts thrown him, etc. A
-judicious outlay in ginger-bread and like delicacies will induce
-his elephantship to be quite obliging, and if your stock of edibles
-be purchased at the stand in the tent, probably the proprietors
-will offer no objection to your feeding their elephant
-with them.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Speaking of amateur elephant exhibitors recalls an adventure
-of our own youthful days. Visiting a menagerie early one
-afternoon when comparatively few visitors were present, and
-anxious to “show of” before some less venturesome youths, we
-had, at the expense of all our pocket money, caused one of the
-elephants to pick up our cap when thrown down and hand it
-back to us, to insert his trunk in our pockets after cake, and
-finally, as a crowning feat, to take bits of cake from between our
-lips. Had we been contented with these achievements our performance
-would have been a triumph; but, alas, our ambition
-was not satisfied, and we thought it would be a still greater
-display to make the elephant take the cake from the <i>inside</i> of
-our mouth. So a piece was a placed therein and the mouth
-held invitingly open. Mr. Elephant unhesitatingly inserted his
-proboscis, but unfortunately our supply of cake had been well
-nigh exhausted, and the piece used for the experiment was <i>very</i>
-small, so either from inability to find it, a mistake in the article,
-or as a punishment for reducing the rations, he got hold of our
-tongue, and the first thing we knew he was attempting to pull it
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_124'>124</span>out. Luckily his keeper came to our rescue at this critical
-moment, and we retired uninjured but rather crestfallen.</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='XIII' class='c007'>CHAPTER XIII.<br /> <span class='large'>LIONS, TIGERS, LEOPARDS AND PANTHERS.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Unquestionably the lion in his native wilds, with his
-appetite keen from forced fasts, is a fierce and formidable
-adversary to meet with, and well worthy the title of “king of
-beasts.” But it is well established by travelers and hunters
-that when his appetite is satisfied he will seldom attack a man
-unprovoked, often passing harmlessly by; and will even permit
-his best relished prey, the antelope, to come to his neighborhood
-for water, without molestation. He is comparatively
-gentle in a state of captivity, more to be depended upon, and
-less treacherous, than the tiger, and has been preferred to the
-tiger by tamers in all ages.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>When taken young he is tamed with little difficulty, and,
-while a cub, may be handled and caressed like a great kitten.
-As he grows larger he becomes so rough in his play that he is
-liable unintentionally to inflict injury. Hunters who capture a
-family of cubs generally sell them to individuals who make a
-business of buying up young animals in their native countries,
-to be forwarded to correspondents in various parts of the
-world. This is the way in which nearly all the wild animals on
-exhibition are procured.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>When an animal “on the road”—which is the technical term
-for moving with a traveling exhibition—is so unmindful of the
-interests of his owners as to die, the showman telegraphs to a
-dealer in wild animals, and often within twenty-four hours
-another is on his way to supply the vacant place. Sometimes,
-if the dead animal has acquired a reputation, the new one
-assumes his name as well as his duties, and the public never
-suspects there has been any change.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Until bought by the exhibitor lions are considered merely as
-articles of merchandise, to be kept in good condition, and, when
-ordered, to be packed and forwarded with due care and despatch.
-The dealer in wild animals does nothing in respect to taming
-them, though a second-hand animal which has been tamed
-sometimes comes into his hands. If it is desired to tame a
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_125'>125</span>lion for the exhibition of the “lion king” he is bought when
-young; if merely for ordinary exhibition this is not essential.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The taming is accomplished mainly by mild measures. The
-young lion is regularly and plentifully fed, his food being given
-to him by the tamer. As we before remarked a cub may be
-handled with as much freedom as a kitten, and if this be kept
-up regularly, the animal becomes so accustomed to it as not to
-resent it when he grows older. Besides, all animals of the cat
-kind are fond of having their heads scratched and their fur
-stroked, and even such a trifling matter as this aids the tamer
-in soothing and gaining the good will of the animal. Being fed
-immediately after these familiarities the lion soon hails them
-with pleasure, as the precursor of his meal. Any misbehavior,
-such as scratching, biting, or defiance of the tamer is punished
-with a blow from the butt of a heavy whip, and in extreme cases
-by the deprivation of his supper.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i121.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE “LION KING” PERFORMING.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>It is sometimes necessary to reduce an old lion to submission
-or to inspire with more awe one which does not entertain sufficient
-respect for the tamer. The animal is usually well fed;
-this dulls his anger at the tamer’s intrusion, as well as makes
-his resistance more easily overcome. Armed with a club, the
-tamer enters the cage, and standing in such a position as to prevent
-the lion approaching from the rear, he waits the animal’s
-onset. This is always a ticklish position, requiring a cool head
-and steady nerves, but the captive animal with a full stomach
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_126'>126</span>is not like a wild one ravenous for food, and he is pretty sure
-to submit sooner or later. Watching the animal’s eye steadily,
-the tamer can ordinarily detect his intention to spring, and be
-prepared to receive him with a blow from the club. This he
-repeats at each approach of the animal until the latter slinks
-to the farther end of the cage and ceases his attacks. This is
-enough for one lesson; the next day the animal will probably
-only gaze sullenly on the tamer upon his entering the cage.
-As he becomes accustomed to the man’s presence he will permit
-him to handle him, but these are not the ones in whose mouths
-the tamer places his head. To place your head in the mouth of
-a lion who bears you ill-will is a dangerous proceeding, and
-there is a probability that he would seize such a favorable
-opportunity to pay off old scores.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Burning torches and heated irons are sometimes resorted to
-as aids in subduing unamiable and obstinate animals. These
-are used more frequently for tigers than for lions. More
-reliance may be placed upon a lion’s affection than a tiger’s;
-the tiger must be made to fear the tamer so much that he will
-not dare to commit any overt act.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The training of an animal of course adds very greatly to his
-value, therefore great pains are taken with the lion’s education.
-The lion, if gentle means have been adopted, often becomes
-attached to the tamer, and will go through his performance with
-even a sort of pleasure. This performance usually consists in
-the “lion king” entering the cage, caressing the lions, and
-then proceeding to show the audience what he dares to do with
-the animals. Opening the mouth, showing the teeth and tongue,
-pulling out claws, and the more startling feat of putting his
-head in the lion’s mouth, are the customary performances.
-Taking the lion by the tail is a familiarity occasionally, though
-seldom, indulged in.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>When the man places his head in the lion’s mouth it will be
-noticed that he holds the jaws with his hands. This is generally,
-but erroneously, supposed to be done to prevent the animal closing
-his mouth; should he feel so inclined, the man’s strength
-would avail but little against the powerful muscles of the animal’s
-jaws; his real object in holding the jaws is to prevent
-the exceedingly rough tongue of the lion coming in contact with
-and lacerating his face. When this feat is performed in private
-it is usual to protect the face with a sort of hood of stout cloth.
-Most of the injuries, to lion tamers, which occur in the performance
-of this feat, we believe to be purely accidental. An
-incipient cough, a tickling in the throat or some other trifle is
-liable to cause a spasmodic closing of the jaws, and the crushing
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_127'>127</span>of the tamer’s head before he or the lion has any idea of what is
-going to happen.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Some lions will permit strangers to enter their cages in company
-with the tamer. Some will even permit little familiarities
-from visitors under the protection of the tamer. Nero, a lion
-of peculiarly gentle disposition belonging to a menagerie traveling
-in Scotland, seemed even pleased to receive visits from persons
-whom his master saw fit to introduce into his cage, and
-would treat them very graciously. When last in Edinburgh a
-nightly exhibition was given of visitors riding and sitting on his
-back, Nero the while preserving a look of magnanimous composure,
-only slowly looking around at the entrance of a new
-visitor. Another lion, in Amsterdam, would jump through a
-hoop and barrel; then through the same covered with paper;
-and finally through hoop and barrel with the paper set on fire.
-This last part he evidently disliked, but with some coaxing would
-do it. When given meat in public he would show his forbearance
-by allowing some of it to be taken from him, submitting
-with only a short clutch and a growl; but his countenance lost
-its serene expression, and he would probably not long have submitted
-to this tampering.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A keeper of wild beasts in New York had provided himself
-with a fur cap on the approach of winter. The novelty of this
-costume attracted the attention of the lion who made a sudden
-grab at it, as the man passed the cage, and pulled it off his head.
-As soon, however, as he discovered it was the keeper’s he
-relinquished the cap and laid down meekly on the bottom of his
-cage. The same animal hearing a noise under his cage put his
-paw through the bars and hauled up the keeper, who was cleaning
-beneath. Seeing it was his master he had thus ill-used, he
-immediately laid down upon his back in an attitude of complete
-submission.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The temper of the female is generally milder than that of the
-male previous to her having young. No sooner, however, does
-she become a mother than the ferocity of her disposition becomes
-ten-fold more vigorous, and though she will sometimes permit
-the keeper to enter the cage and attend to her wants, too near
-an approach, or any interference with the cubs would prove extremely
-dangerous. When disturbed by visitors the lioness
-displays great anxiety for her young, carrying the cubs in her
-mouth, apparently desirous of hiding them. This anxiety begins
-to diminish when the young ones reach the age of about
-five months. Lions are quite frequently born in captivity, but
-few of these reach maturity, many dying at the time of shedding
-their milk teeth.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_128'>128</span>
-<img src='images/i124.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE LIONESS AND THE DOG.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>There was at one time in the Jardin des Plantes, Paris, a
-lioness which permitted a dog to live in her den, and to which
-she became strongly attached. The dog was equally fond of
-her, gamboling with and caressing her in the highest possible
-spirit. The lioness was most attentive to all his wants, and
-when the keeper let the little creature out for exercise she seemed
-exceedingly unhappy till he returned.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_129'>129</span>A lioness kept in the Tower of London in 1773 had for a
-considerable time been so attached to a little dog who was kept
-in her den that she would not eat till the dog was first satisfied.
-When the lioness was near her time of whelping, it was thought
-advisable to take the dog away; but shortly after, when the
-keepers were cleaning the den, the dog by some means got into
-it and approached the lioness with his wonted fondness, while
-she was playing with her cubs. She made a sudden spring at
-him, and seizing the poor little animal in her mouth, seemed on
-the point of tearing him to pieces; then, as if suddenly recollecting
-her former kindness, she carried him to the door of the
-den and allowed him to be taken out unharmed.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>One of the most interesting cages in the Zoological Garden,
-London, is that containing a family party consisting of a mastiff
-with a lion and his mate. They were brought up together from
-cubhood, and agree marvelously well, though the dog would
-prove little more than a mouthful for either of his noble companions.
-Visitors express much sympathy for him, and fancy
-that the lion is only saving him up, as the giant did Jack, for a
-future feast. But this sympathy seems uncalled for, as Lion
-(so the dog is named) has always maintained the ascendancy he
-assumed as a pup, and any rough handling on the part of his
-huge playfellows is immediately resented by his flying at their
-noses. Although the dog is allowed to come out of the den
-every morning, he shows a great disinclination to leave his old
-friends. It is, however, thought advisable to separate them at
-feeding time.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The taming of wild beasts has not been confined to modern
-times. In the palmy days of the Roman empire they were
-trained and led in the triumphal processions so common at the
-time when Rome was almost master of the world. Lions were
-even made, occasionally, to draw the chariots of some victorious
-general, symbolical of his prowess. For many generations,
-various powerful Indian sovereigns have had beasts of prey
-tamed and kept near the throne on state occasions. More frequently,
-however, they were employed in the execution of criminals
-or persons who had offended the despot. King Theodore
-of Abyssinia possessed quite a number of tamed lions. Of
-his four special favorites, one named Kuara was the most docile
-and intelligent. When the king received an embassy he gave
-audience to the messengers surrounded by a court of lions instead
-of a crowd of courtiers and a guard of soldiers.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The couguar, or American lion, is one of the gentlest of the
-species, easily tamed, becoming harmless and even affectionate,
-even toward comparative strangers. This animal is
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_130'>130</span>frequently met with in menageries, his docility and the ease with
-which he may be taught to leap and climb, rendering him a favorite
-for these collections. He is much pleased with the society
-of those persons to whom he is accustomed; lies down on his
-back between their feet, toys with their garments, and acts very
-much like a playful kitten. He has a great predilection for water,
-and, if provided with a tub of that liquid, will jump in, souse
-around in it, and jump out again highly delighted.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Tigers being more treacherous and less influenced by kind
-treatment than lions, tamers generally prefer to have as little to
-do with as possible. This rule, however, is not without an
-exception; the natives of India tame tigers more frequently
-than lions, and the tame tigers of the fakirs, the celebrated
-“royal tigers,” natives of Hindoostan, naturally the most powerful
-and ferocious in the world, exhibit great gentleness and
-confidence—attributable doubtless to the ample way in which
-they are fed. In this country tigers are principally kept merely
-as objects of curiosity and few efforts are made to tame them.
-When taming is deemed desirable, resort is generally had to intimidation.
-An old tiger can seldom be subdued except by
-brute force; a crowbar is more effective with him than kindness,
-though when once rendered tractable, kindness succeeds severity
-in his treatment.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Tigers are not, however, entirely destitute of affection, and this
-is sometimes manifested toward the person who has reared them.
-An example of this kind, a tigress in the town of London, may
-be familiar to the reader. This animal on its arrival in London
-grew very irascible and dangerous, from the annoyance of visitors
-and the bustle on the Thames. After she had been here
-some time her old keeper visited the tower and desired to enter
-the cage. So sulky and savage had the beast become that the
-superintendent feared to grant this request, but was finally prevailed
-on to do so. No sooner, however, did the animal catch
-sight of her old friend than she exhibited the utmost joy and on
-his entering her cage, fawned upon and caressed him, showing
-extravagant signs of pleasure, and at his departure cried and
-whined for the remainder of the day.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The cowardice of the tiger is well known. This characteristic
-is illustrated in the contests between buffaloes and tigers
-exhibited in India. The tiger seems to menace the spectators,
-swelling his fur, displaying his teeth, and occasionally snarling
-and lashing his sides with his tail. As soon as the buffalo enters
-the enclosure, the tiger “sinks into the most contemptible
-despondency, sneaking along under the palisade, crouching and
-turning on his back, to avoid the buffalo’s charge. He tries
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_131'>131</span>every device his situation will admit, and often suffers himself
-to be gored, or to be lifted from his pusillanimous attitude by
-the buffalo’s horn before he can be induced to act on the defensive.
-When, however, he really does summon up courage to
-oppose his antagonist, he displays wonderful vigor and activity,
-although he is generally conquered.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Perhaps the cowardice of the tiger in the above instance is
-due to the consciousness of his inability to cope successfully
-with his adversary, and may be a specimen of “discretion being
-the better part of valor,” but the following incident related of a
-tiger kept at the British residency in Calcutta, gives an amusing
-example of absurd terror from a most insignificant cause:
-“What annoyed him far more than our poking him up with a
-stick, or tantalizing him with shins of beef or legs of mutton,
-was introducing a mouse into his cage. No fine lady ever exhibited
-more terror at the sight of a spider than this magnificent
-royal tiger betrayed on seeing a mouse. Our mischievous plan
-was to tie the little animal by a string to the end of a long pole,
-and thrust it close to the tiger’s nose. The moment he saw it
-he leaped to the opposite side; and, when the mouse was made
-to run near him, he jammed himself into a corner, and stood
-trembling and roaring in such an ecstasy of fear that we were
-always obliged to desist in pity to the poor brute. Sometimes
-we insisted on his passing over the spot where the unconscious
-little mouse ran backward and forward. For a long time, however,
-we could not get him to move, till, at length, I believe, by
-the help of a squib, we obliged him to start; but, instead of
-pacing leisurely across his den, or making a detour to avoid the
-object of his alarm, he generally took a kind of flying leap, so
-high as nearly to bring his back in contact with the roof of his
-cage.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Tigers will not submit like lions to the intrusion of idle
-strangers into the cages, but any professional trainer can
-ordinarily enter the cage and exhibit any properly broken
-tigers without special risk. There are men ready to accept engagements
-for performing with animals whom they may never
-have seen before the day of exhibition; fear being the controlling
-influence with the beasts, it is only requisite that the man shall
-show no timidity, and compel obedience by whatever severity
-may be necessary. The statement that belladonna or the leaves
-of datura stramonium are put in the food of tigers to act on their
-nervous system and create hallucination and terror, is, we believe,
-unfounded; no hallucination equals the simple reality of a heavy
-iron bar.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The tiger’s cage is not altogether without its dangers. A
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_132'>132</span>story told of Tom Nathan, once well known in connection with
-circus exhibitions, gives one illustration of the feelings attendant
-upon non-success. He began public life as a clown. In his
-later years his hair was snowy white, but he relates that it became
-so, not in consequence of his years, but from an alarming
-accident which befell him during his career in the sawdust.
-There was a tiger in the show with which he was connected,
-and the man who bearded the tiger in his den having, on one
-occasion, struck for higher wages, Nathan volunteered to take
-his place. Boldly he entered the cage, but as soon as he did so,
-the animal resented the intrusion and seized him by the fleshy
-part of the body immediately below the small of the back. The
-fear of being chewed, the pain of the laceration of his flesh, and
-disappointed ambition combined, blanched his hair in a moment.
-He went into the cage a fair haired youth, and was taken
-out, as soon as he could be secured, a white headed old man.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The following is a bit of experience, related to an English correspondent,
-by an old English tamer named Norwood, long
-employed by Jamrach, an extensive animal owner of London:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Whenever I ’ave a few words with Mr. Jamrach, which I
-had a few not many weeks ago, I takes to the show business,
-and am allers ready to go in. This ’ere scar,” (baring an arm
-and showing a deep flesh wound, recently cicatrized) “I got on
-the Kingsland road, on the 20th of this month. A Bengal tiger
-it was, and I was a-performing with the same beast as was at
-the Crystal Palace a short time arterwards. Me and Mr. Jamrach
-’ad ’ad a few words, we ’ad, and I took up with the performing,
-which I’d been accustomed to. Well, I see the tiger for
-the first time at four in the arternoon; and I goes into her den,
-and puts her through her anky-panky at eight. As a matter
-o’course I ’ad to giv’ her the whip a bit, and she not knowing
-my voice, don’t you see, got fidgety and didn’t like it. To make
-matters worse moresumever, this tiger bein’ fond of jumpin’,
-they went and shortened the cage, so that when I giv’ the word
-she fell short of her reg’lar jump, and came upon me. I don’t
-believe she meant mischief; I only fancy she got timid like, and
-not being accustomed to what she ’ad under ’er, she makes a
-grab and does wot you see. The company got scared like; the
-ladies screamed, and the performance was stopped for a time.
-What did I do?—why, directly they came in with iron bars and
-made her loose her hold, I jest giv’ her the whip agen, and made
-her go through the jump till she got more satisfied like; but she
-was timid, very timid, to the last, and tore off the flesh right to
-the elbow here. No, sir, I never stopped the performance after
-the first time, though I was being mauled above a bit, while the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_133'>133</span>people was a clapping their ’ands, and ’ollering ‘angcore,’ It
-don’t do with beasts to let ’em think you’re uneasy, so each time
-she tore me with her claws, I just giv’ her the whip, till she saw
-it wouldn’ do.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Leopards and panthers, although sometimes confounded even
-by naturalists, are strictly different animals, though so near
-alike that any statements in regard to the training of one will
-be equally applicable to the other. They are both quite common
-in menageries, and are often among the dwellers in the
-“den of beasts.” Leopards—and what we say of the leopard’s
-character or training applies equally to the panther—are of a
-comparatively gentle disposition, and, unless hungry or annoyed,
-are generally harmless. Even in a wild state a person may come
-across them without being harmed, though it is said they are
-more dreaded at the Cape of Good Hope, than the lion, for they
-steal silently and treacherously upon their prey while he gives
-warning of his approach by terrific roarings.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Illustrative of the leopard’s peaceful disposition an amusing
-story is told of a Cape farmer who once surprised a group of
-seven leopards reposing on a clump of scattered rocks. In the
-excitement of the moment, with scarcely a thought as to the
-probable consequences, he fired his single-barreled gun at them.
-Instead of returning this attack, the leopards seemed more surprised
-than angry at the report of the gun, and instead of turning
-their attention to the imprudent intruder some of them
-leaped on their hind legs, and pawed the air as if trying to catch
-the bullet which had gone whistling by their ears.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The leopard is tamed easily, and is usually the animal
-selected to perform the leaping and similar feats which form a
-prominent portion of the “lion king’s” exhibition. Care is
-taken to select an individual who shows an inclination and aptness
-for these exercises. In this case the training is a mere trifle;
-the tamer corners the leopard up in one end of the cage, and
-holding his whip in a horizontal position close to the floor, he
-gently stirs the animal with his foot, giving at the same time
-the command, “up!” or “hi!” To escape the annoyance the
-leopard will spring over the whip, and the lesson is repeated
-until he does so promptly, on its being placed in position and
-the order given. Then the tamer may raise one of his legs and
-hold the whip at its side, and the leopard will leap over the leg.
-The same plan may be adopted with other articles such as poles,
-banners, etc., or even the trainer’s own head. Jumping through
-a hoop is the next lesson; the hoop to be held in one hand while
-the other hand holds the whip, with which the lower part of the
-hoop is to be tapped when the command “up!” or “hi!” is
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_134'>134</span>given. The hoop is at first held low down and close to the
-animal, but it may be gradually elevated as the lessons continue
-until the leap is as high as the cage will permit. Covering
-the hoop with paper adds a little to the attractiveness of
-this feat, and, of course, the leopard experiences no difficulty in
-going through a single thickness of paper.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It is a harder task to induce the animal to jump through a
-hoop in which a number of small lights are arranged so as to
-form a fiery circle. The animal’s natural dread of fire makes
-him dislike anything of which fire forms a part, but if the hoop
-be at first of large size and the lights few, he will, if perseveringly
-urged, by-and-by venture. Experiencing no harm he will
-gradually become bolder, and the size of the hoop may be
-decreased and the lights increased until a wreath of fire is
-formed barely large enough for him to pass through; the
-rapidity of his passage will prevent his being hurt by the flames.
-A similar mode is adopted for teaching lions, though they are
-less frequently taught these tricks.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The large cage in which the tamer’s public exhibitions take
-place is divided into several compartments by iron gates; each
-animal has his allotted division and the gates prevent any intrusion
-by the other animals. It is only when the tamer is in
-the cage that these-gates are opened; then they swing back
-against the sides, forming one large cage. The animals are
-very jealous of any encroachment of the others, upon their accustomed
-space, and the tamer must be watchful to prevent
-quarrels when they are thus all thrown together. It is easier
-to make the beasts submit to a man’s presence than to the
-presence of one another. It is seldom that the tamer is assailed,
-but many a time has one of the animals been killed during these
-performances, without the spectators having any suspicion of
-the fact. A sudden bite at the back of the neck crushes the
-spine and the victim sinks upon the floor without a sound, dead.
-The audience suppose he has lain down because his part of the
-performance is over—and so it is.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Wild animals kept in confinement are subject to spells of
-sulkiness, at which times their management requires great judgment
-and care on the part of the tamer. These sulky moods
-are premonitions to the tamer of danger, and he makes it a point
-whenever passing the cages to glance at the animals’ eyes to
-detect any suspicious looks. It is during these fits that most of
-the casualties occur.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Women have in several instances ventured to assume the rôle
-of “lion queens.” Some years ago one of these was traveling
-with a show; through the country, whose husband, we have
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_135'>135</span>been told, had been a lion tamer, and had been killed by one of
-the animals. Before his death this man had sometimes allowed
-his wife to enter the cage with him, thus accustoming the animals
-to her presence—though with no thought, probably, of her
-ever performing them professionally. Exactly how it came
-about we cannot tell, but probably she saw no other means of
-support; at any rate, in the very cage in which her husband met
-his death she set out to win her daily bread. We cannot vouch
-for the story; we cannot now even recall the name of our informant;
-but for all that it may be true. We only remember that
-she was harsher toward her animals than are most masculine
-members of the profession, and it is possible she was meting out
-to them a sort of “poetic justice” for the murder of her
-husband.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Children have at times been introduced into these cages to
-make the exhibition appeal more strongly to the sympathies of
-the audience. The public always flock to see these scenes, however
-they may cry out against the barbarity of exposing a child
-to the danger of being torn to pieces by wild beasts. In one or
-two cases a little girl has entered the cage entirely alone and
-performed the animals; but animals are often more tractable
-with children than with grown persons, as probably many of
-our readers have witnessed in the case of savage dogs. Mrs.
-Bowdich says of a panther kept at Cape Coast, Africa, as the
-pet of an officer, that he was particularly gentle with children,
-lying by them as they slept. Even the infant shared his caresses
-without the slightest attempt on the animal’s part to injure
-the child. Besides this docility with children the tamer is
-always near at hand, sometimes in the guise of an attendant,
-keeping a watchful eye upon the animals, and ready to lend
-prompt assistance should it be required.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In Persia the leopard is trained to hunt gazelles just as a falcon
-will hunt herons. The huntsman provides the leopard with
-a hood, which can be drawn over his face and mouth, and seats
-him on his saddle-bow. The moment a deer or gazelle is sighted
-the leopard’s head is uncovered, and he is let down from the
-horse. In one or two bounds, according to the distance, the
-leopard springs upon the back of his prey and seizing it by the
-neck brings it to the ground. The huntsman then comes up,
-and after caressing the leopard, who has already begun to feast
-upon the prey, he gives him a piece of meat to divert his attention,
-and slipping on the hood restores him to his place upon the
-saddle-bow. When the leopard fails to bring down the prey,
-which rarely happens, he hides himself and lies down, and can
-only be prevailed on to renew the chase by repeated caresses.</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_136'>136</span>
-  <h2 id='XIV' class='c007'>CHAPTER XIV.<br /> <span class='large'>TAMING WILD ANIMALS IN GENERAL—SQUIRRELS—BEARS—BUFFALOES—WOLVES—HYENAS—RHINOCEROSES—HIPPOPOTAMI—CROCODILES—ALLIGATORS.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>All our present domestic animals having sprung from
-wild stock, it is not very remarkable that many other animals
-now found in a state of nature, may be rendered equally
-gentle and obedient under proper treatment. As the taming of
-these animals answers no purpose save the gratification of public
-curiosity, the number is comparatively small, for as soon as a
-tame bear or buffalo ceases to be a novelty the most profitable
-thing for his owner to do is to chop him up into steaks. Whatever
-may be the ferocity of an animal that has reached maturity,
-this characteristic is almost wholly lacking in his infancy,
-consequently most of the tamed animals have been captured
-young, and accustomed for the principal part of their lifetime to
-captivity.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>All wild animals when captured, after they have reached an
-adult age, display at first a passionate resistance to confinement
-and all efforts to soothe them. While this lasts it is usual to
-keep them without food. The exhaustion induced by this deprivation
-greatly aids in quelling their rage, besides teaching
-them the hopelessness of resistance. With cubs this is scarcely
-ever necessary; though they sometimes display anger, they are
-so easily overpowered or restrained from mischief, that it is
-hardly worth while needlessly to make them suffer hunger. As
-soon as the old ones become quiet they are fed by the tamer,
-who thus lays the foundation of their future good will. Animals
-in menageries are, as a rule, fed one full meal each day, with
-the exception of Sunday, on which day they get nothing to eat.
-This fast is intended to keep them in health, and to rest their
-digestive organs, and is nothing to animals who can go for days
-or even weeks without food if necessary.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Small animals, such as squirrels, etc., may be tamed without
-difficulty, even if captured when arrived at a considerable age.
-Gentle treatment, the avoidance of any teasing or aggravating,
-and a gradual increase of the tamer’s familiarity with the captive,
-will be all that is requisite in most cases. When tamed, the
-animals may be taught tricks of various kinds in the same manner
-that we have elsewhere described for teaching the same
-performances to other animals.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_137'>137</span>A squirrel, if captured when moderately young, can be tamed
-in a couple of days by merely carrying him in your pocket.
-The warmth of the pocket will be pleasant to him, and by giving
-him a nut occasionally you will convince him that you
-mean well toward him, and so gain his confidence. At first,
-care must be taken to prevent his escape, but by-and-by he may
-be allowed to come out and go in at his pleasure, and he will
-run about your lap with the greatest familiarity. With flying
-squirrels this method of training is particularly successful.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Squirrels and many of the small wild animals can be made
-tame by any boy who is willing to devote sufficient time and
-patience to the object. In some cases it is not necessary to capture
-the animal. We have known instances of animals, particularly
-squirrels, being made so tame that they would of their
-own accord come to the tamer on hearing his voice. There was
-no great mystery in their docility; food had been at first placed
-in places frequented by them, the person so placing it retiring
-to a distance. By-and-by the animal would come and eat the
-food, perhaps glancing suspiciously at the distant figure, but if
-the person made no motion to startle him, he would continue
-his meal.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>This placing of food would require long continuance, the person
-each time remaining a little nearer than before, until, in
-time, the animal would have no fear even in his immediate
-vicinity. Then bits of food may be gently dropped down for
-him, and if the tamer stands quietly they will probably be picked
-up. Then the tamer may step backward and again drop a
-morsel; the animal will advance to get it, and at last he may
-even become so familiar as to eat from the hand. A squirrel
-who has been so far tamed may then easily be taught to climb
-over the tamer’s person by enticing him forward with some
-dainty. We have seen a squirrel induced to go through quite a
-variety of little performances, standing erect, leaping, and climbing
-wherever desired, lured on by a kernel of corn at the end of
-a piece of string.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Of the larger animals, bears have always been favorite subjects
-with trainers. Considerable difficulty and danger is
-encountered in securing the cubs, owing to the ferocity and
-courage with which the mother bear defends her young. The
-old bear is in most cases killed before the capture of the young
-ones can be accomplished. During the infancy of the cubs the
-old he-bear ungallantly deserts the partner of his bosom, and
-takes up his quarters at a distance, to avoid annoyance by the
-cries of his progeny; so the hunter often escapes trouble with
-the head of the family. Bears are born blind, like puppies, and
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_138'>138</span>remain so for about eight or nine days. With care they can be
-raised even if taken when only four or five days old. The black
-bear attains his full size when eight or nine years old.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Bears like many other animals have been called upon to lend
-their aid in theatrical displays. A frightful scene occurred
-some twenty years ago at the theater of Czerny, in Bohemia,
-during the performance of a melo-drama, called the “Bear of
-the Mountains,” the principal performer in which was a bruin
-of such wonderful docility and dramatic talent, that for a long
-succession of nights he attracted overflowing audiences. On
-this occasion, however, something had put this star out of humor,
-and he was observed to be wanting in those brilliant displays
-of the histrionic art which had previously overwhelmed him
-with applause. In the third act, instead of coming down the
-mountains by a winding path, with the slow and solemn step, as
-set down in the prompter’s book, he alighted on the stage at one
-bound.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>On his return behind the scenes he received reproofs, which,
-instead of improving, made his temper still more sullen; and it
-was with difficulty he could be prevailed on to go through his
-part. In the last scene he was induced to commence a waltz
-with a young and beautiful peasant girl, and seemed to take so
-much enjoyment in the dance, that the whole audience were
-raised from their seats, and, standing on the benches, drowned
-the sounds of a powerful orchestra with their acclamations of
-praise and delight.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In a moment, however, the joyous spectacle was changed into
-one of horror; a piercing shriek was heard above all the
-combination of noises; the stage was one moment in the utmost
-confusion, and the next was clear of every performer except the
-bear, who appeared with his muzzle, unfastened, and hanging
-around his neck; and after making a wide display of his tremendous
-gullet, leaped into the orchestra, which, as may be easily
-imagined, was as vacant as the stage. The flight of the audience
-was equally as quick, but the consequences more serious.
-Numbers were severely crushed and bruised in the struggle at
-the doors, and several were dreadfully injured by being thrown
-down and trampled upon. After a pause, a platoon of soldiers
-went into the pit with fixed bayonets and loaded barrels, and
-ordered to bring out the cause of all the evil, dead or alive; but
-they found him, like other great actors who have performed
-their parts and become exhausted by their exertions, taking his
-repose on one of the benches, and incapable or unwilling to
-make any resistance.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The performances of bears consist almost entirely of natural
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_139'>139</span>actions, such as walking erect, climbing, leaping, and the like.
-These are arranged to form a variety of feats; that of a bear
-riding around the ring, in a gig drawn by a pony, is very simple,
-the bear being only required to set erect, and hold the reins
-in his paws. Carrying articles, as when acting waiter, is natural.
-Standing on their heads and turning somersaults are probably
-feats not commonly indulged in in a state of freedom; they are
-taught by rapping the hind legs until the animals take the desired
-position or make the desired turn-over. The most pretentious
-bear show within our knowledge was that of “Old Grizzly
-Adams,” a hunter who managed to collect quite a number and
-variety of bears, which were exhibited some years ago. Laughing,
-crying, singing, and other bears were advertised as belonging
-to this collection; but the laughing, crying and singing were
-the mere natural voices of the bears, and all so nearly alike that
-only a vivid imagination enabled the hearer to distinguish
-between the laughing, crying, and singing. Some gaudy costumes
-tickled with their ridiculousness the fancy of the audience,
-and the exhibition gave very fair satisfaction.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i135.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>DANCING BEARS IN COSTUME.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Little bears are intensely amusing, and they display a great
-fondness for romping and playing. We have known of hunters
-bringing cubs home, and adopting them, as it were, into their
-families, the bears becoming exceedingly familiar, sleeping with
-the children, and eating from their bowls of bread and milk,
-climbing into the hunter’s lap and licking his face, and, in fact,
-making themselves perfectly at home. As they grow old, however,
-they are liable to become enraged at teasing or other provocation
-and to be dangerous.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Bears sometimes acquire a fondness for liquor, and this article
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_140'>140</span>is in some cases used by trainers as an inducement or reward for
-performing. Cake, candy, and like treats are also powerful incentives
-with bears. A writer in one of the magazines describes
-a huge bear whose acquaintance he made in New Orleans, belonging
-to a Spaniard who kept a public house in the vicinity of that
-city. This bear had contracted so great a liking for whiskey
-and sugar, that he became troublesome unless he had his liquor
-and his spree, and no one could mistake the cause of his conduct
-when “fuddled.” He rolled from side to side, leered ridiculously
-and smiled foolishly, and was loving and savage by turns.
-He would wrap his great paw around the tumbler containing
-“the poison,” go through the ceremony of touching glasses with
-the gentleman who paid for the treat, and then pour the contents
-down his capacious throat with a gusto that made old topers
-“love that animal like one of themselves.”</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i136a.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>PERFORMING BEARS.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i136b.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>BEAR AND PONY ACT.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Buffaloes have also been drafted into the service of the circus,
-but their performances are in no way remarkable—except, perhaps,
-for the very absence of anything remarkable. The fierce
-monster who, with steaming nostrils and flaming eyes, is represented
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_141'>141</span>on the circus posters as recklessly dashing over palisade-like
-fences, is usually found in sober fact to be a dejected looking
-animal of very moderate proportions, requiring vigorous punching
-to induce him to trot around the ring and leap the low
-“hurdles” the “general utility” men hold for him. His greatest
-aim in life appears to be to avoid hurting his shins while
-going over these barriers.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Buffalo training is nothing but reducing the animal to submission,
-which a few applications of the horse taming straps will
-usually accomplish. Then he is driven around the ring until
-he learns to keep up a steady trot, after which the hurdles are
-placed in his way and he made to leap over, by the trainer’s
-assistants standing so as to cut off his retreat, and the trainer
-goading him forward. In obstinate cases a ring is attached to
-the animal’s nose in the same manner as with bulls.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i137.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE IDEAL BUFFALO OF THE POSTERS.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>There are occasional examples recorded of the taming of
-wolves and hyenas. A story, we believe well authenticated, of
-a pet wolf, is related by M. Frederick Cuvier, and shows
-that even animals not usually considered affectionate, are not
-without gratitude to their benefactors, nor insensible of kind
-treatment. The wolf, who is the hero of this story, had been
-brought up like a dog, and became familiar with every one he
-was in the habit of seeing. He would follow his master, seemed
-to suffer from his absence, evinced entire submission, and differed
-not in manners from the tamest domestic dog. The master
-being obliged to travel, made a present of him to the Royal
-Menagerie at Paris. Here, shut up in his compartment, the
-animal remained for several weeks moody and discontented, and
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_142'>142</span>almost without eating. He gradually however, recovered, attached
-himself to his keeper, and seemed to have forgotten all
-his old affection. His master returned after an absence of eighteen
-months. At the very first word which he pronounced, the
-wolf, who did not see him in the crowd, instantly recognized
-him, and testified his joy by his antics and his cries. Being set
-at liberty, he overwhelmed his old friend with caresses, just as
-the most attached dog would have done after a separation of a
-few days. Unhappily, his master was obliged to leave him a
-second time, and this absence was again to the poor wolf the
-cause of profound regret, but time allayed his grief. Three
-years elapsed, and the wolf was living very comfortably with a
-young dog that had been given him as a companion. After this
-space of time, sufficient to make any dog forget his master, the
-gentleman returned again. It was evening, and all was shut
-up, and the eyes of the animal could be of no use to him, but
-the voice of his beloved master was not yet effaced from his
-memory; the moment he heard it he knew it, and answered by
-cries expressive of the most impatient desire, and on the obstacle
-which separated them being removed, his cries redoubled. The
-animal rushed forward, placed his fore feet on the shoulders of
-his friend, licked every part of his face, and threatened with his
-teeth those very keepers to whom he had so recently testified
-the warmest affection.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i138.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE REAL BUFFALO OF THE RING.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>A French nobleman was some years ago famous for having
-several tame wolves; his method of taming being to confine each
-animal in a kennel by himself until he became docile. The
-wolves were never struck, but if when, little by little, they had
-become accustomed to the tamer’s presence, they made any attempt
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_143'>143</span>to bite, they were seized by the neck and a rough stick or
-knotty cane rubbed hard over their gums, which gave them a great
-disinclination to ever again use their teeth in an offensive manner.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The rhinoceros is frequently tamed in the east, the plan
-being to confine the animal in a pen built around a small pond
-of water, and to keep him without food until reduced by hunger.
-Food is eventually supplied, and withheld again whenever any
-symptoms of fierceness are manifested. Those in captivity have
-been captured, in most cases, when young.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>As early as 1685 a live specimen was carried to England
-from the East Indies, while a few years later another was exhibited
-extensively in Europe. Since then others of the species
-have been brought to Europe and America. Their behavior is
-very like a huge docile pig, and they obey some simple orders of
-their keepers, such as walking around the room on command
-and exhibiting themselves to spectators, opening and shutting
-their mouths as directed, and the like.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>One of these animals, still young, habitually indicated a very
-mild disposition, being very obedient to his keeper, whose caresses
-he received with much satisfaction. He was subject,
-however, to violent fits of passion, and at such times it was
-dangerous to approach him. He then made prodigious efforts to
-break his chains and escape from his bondage; but the offer of
-bread and fruits seldom failed to soothe his most terrible convulsions.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Those persons found the most favor with him who ministered
-the most to his gormandizing appetites; and, when they appeared,
-he exhibited his satisfaction by opening his mouth and
-extending to them his long upper lip. The narrow limits of the
-cage in which he was shut up did not allow him to manifest much
-intelligence. The object of the keeper was to make him forget
-his strength, or forego its exercise; hence, nothing calculated
-to awaken his consciousness of power was required of him. To
-open his mouth, to move his head to the right or left, or to lift
-his leg were the usual acts by which he was required to testify
-his obedience. His strength, and the fear that in one of his passions
-he might break his cage, insured to him the most mild and
-soothing treatment, and he was scrupulously rewarded for the
-least thing he was required to do. The distinction he made of
-persons, and the great attention he paid to everything which
-passed around, demonstrated that, in more favorable circumstances,
-his intelligence might have been more strikingly manifested.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Akin to the rhinoceros is the hippopotamus, a very fine
-specimen of which was exhibited in this country some years
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_144'>144</span>since, and realized for his Arab keeper quite a handsome sum,
-the Arab bringing him here on speculation and hiring him out
-to museum and circus managers. Between Hamet, the keeper,
-and Obaysch, the hippopotamus, considerable affection existed,
-probably even more on the animal’s part than on the man’s.
-Side by side they slept in Cairo, and during the first week of
-their voyage to Southampton. But as the weather grew warmer,
-and Obaysch larger and larger—he was quite young when
-captured and grew with the rapidity of all members of the
-swinish race—Hamet had a hammock slung from the beams immediately
-over the place where he had been accustomed to
-sleep; just over, in fact, his side of the bed, his position being
-raised some two or three feet. Assuring Obaysch, not only by
-words but by extending one arm over the side so as to touch
-him, Hamet got into his hammock and fell asleep, when he was
-suddenly awakened by a jerk and a hoist, only to find himself
-close by the side of his “<span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">compagnon du voyage</span>.” Another
-experiment at separate sleeping was attended by the same successful
-movements on the part of Obaysch, and, till they arrived
-at Southampton, Hamet desisted from any farther trial, as he
-avoided in all ways any irritation of the animal. On the voyage
-to this country he slept with his huge charge, who at sea
-especially, seemed more content, and to feel safer, when his
-keeper was at his side.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Another anecdote is related of this huge beast:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>One morning during the voyage, Hamet, from some cause or
-other, absented himself from Obaysch a little longer than usual,
-when he ran through his octave of cries, from the most plaintive
-to the most violent, and then was profoundly silent. “Hamet,”
-says the narrator, “thought his freedom was achieved, and then,
-with the air of an emancipated serf, he opened his wicket, and
-condescended to return to his tyrant—tyrant no longer, as he
-hoped. Hippo awaited him with a twinkle of his infant eye—that
-curious, prominent, versatile eye, which looks everywhere
-at once—as he floated in the tank, so as to command the interior
-of his home. Hamet, in his great fidelity, used to keep part
-of his wardrobe in an angle of the roof, for convenience of making
-his toilet without annoying his charge by unnecessary
-absence. The bundle in which these choice vestments were
-secured had been pushed down by the revengeful infant, rubbed
-open with his blunt nose during that ominous silence, and finally
-left in such a state, that neither Hamet, nor any other being,
-Mohammedan or Christian, could ever don them again. Hamet
-is a well-conducted Mussulman, and not given to indulging in
-profane language, but he addressed Hippo in terms of the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_145'>145</span>strongest reprehension. Hippo twinkled his eye and shook his
-head, blew a little trumpet through his nostrils, and smiled in
-triumphant malevolence.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Nothing among modern shows can compare with the old amphitheatrical
-exhibitions of the Romans. For these, large
-numbers of animals were collected from the shores of Africa and
-India; in the contests of the arena they were slaughtered by
-wholesale. Eutropius states, and his assertion is corroborated
-by other writers, that 5,000 wild beasts of all kinds were slain at
-the dedication of the amphitheater of Titus. Pompey, at the opening
-of his theater, exhibited a variety of games and battles with
-wild beasts in which 500 lions were killed in five days; and in
-another exhibition the tragedy consisted in “the massacre of
-100 lions and an equal number of lionesses, 200 leopards, and
-300 bears.” Even if public taste at the present day would tolerate
-such butchery, it would be rather too expensive with lions
-costing from $2,000 to $4,000 each. In those days, of course,
-the cost was much less; in fact, the price of wild beasts in this
-country is usually ten times their price in their native regions.
-This profit is necessary to cover the great cost of transportation,
-feeding and the risks of death or accidents on the passage. Insurance
-companies consider them too risky to insure. Prices,
-however, fluctuate greatly, according to the demand, and an
-animal worth to-day $1,000 may be worth only $200 next month,
-though he be in equally good condition.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In the days when “ordeals” were used to prove the guilt or
-innocence of accused persons, the Brahmin priests of Hindoostan
-made use of crocodiles for this purpose. The accused was compelled
-to swim across a river infested with these animals and
-his fate decided the question of his guilt or innocence. There
-is good reason to believe that there was trickery in these tests;
-that crocodiles were tamed and kept in one part of the river
-while those of the other portions of the stream remained in their
-savage state. The Brahmins could thus predetermine the fate
-of the persons submitting to the ordeal, and doubtless had those
-whom they desired to favor cross among the tame animals, while
-others whom they feared or hated were placed at the mercy of
-the wild ones. Tame crocodiles are by no means rarities; the
-Egyptian priests after rendering them docile, placed bracelets
-upon their forefeet, and hung rings and precious stones in the
-opercula of their ears, which were bored for the purpose, and
-then presented them for adoration of the people.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The means used in taming the crocodile seem to have been
-principally kind treatment and tempting food. This plan is
-pursued even to the present day in Egypt, India, and other countries.
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_146'>146</span>Several individual cases are on record giving details of
-the taming process. Mr. Laing saw at the house of the king of
-the Soulimas—a negro race occupying the country near the
-river Joliba, on the coast of Sierra Leone—a tamed crocodile as
-gentle as a dog; but this animal was confined a prisoner in a
-pond in the palace. The Scheik of Suakem—a seaport in Nubia,
-on the west coast of the Red Sea—having caught a young
-crocodile, tamed it, and kept it in a pond near the sea. The
-animal grew very large, but did not lose his docility. The
-prince placed himself upon the animal’s back, and was carried a
-distance of more than three hundred steps. In the island of
-Sumatra, in the year 1823, an immense crocodile established
-himself at the mouth of the Beanjang; he had chased away all
-the other crocodiles and devoured all of them who ventured to
-return. The inhabitants rendered him divine homage, and respectfully
-supplied him with food. “Pass,” said they to the
-English missionaries who relate the fact, and who were afraid
-to approach the formidable creature; “pass on, our god is merciful.”
-In fact he peacefully regarded the Europeans and their
-boat, without giving any signs either of anger, fear, or a desire
-to attack them.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The following account is given of a tame crocodile, in a
-private letter, quoted in a review of the <span lang="co" xml:lang="co">Erpètologie Gènèrale</span>,
-and affords corroborative proof of the foregoing statements.
-The writer, having ridden a considerable distance to a village
-about eight miles from Kurachee, in Scinde, and feeling thirsty,
-went to a pool to procure some water. “When I got to the
-edge,” says he, “the guide who was with me pointed out something
-in the water, which I had myself taken to be the stump
-of a tree; and although I had my glasses on, I looked at it for
-some time before I found that I was standing within three feet
-of an immense alligator. I then perceived that the swamp was
-crowded with them, although they were all lying in the mud so
-perfectly motionless that a hundred people might have passed
-without observing them. The guide laughed at the start I
-gave, and told me that they were quite harmless, having been
-tamed by a saint, a man of great piety, whose tomb was to be
-seen on a hill close by; and that they continued to obey the
-orders of a number of fakirs, who lived around the tomb. I proceeded
-to the village immediately, and got some of the fakirs to
-come down to the water with a sheep. One of them then went
-close to the water with a long stick, with which he struck the
-ground, and called to the alligators, which immediately came
-crawling out of the water, great and small together, and lay
-down on the bank all around him. The sheep was then killed
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_147'>147</span>and quartered; and while this was going on, the reptiles continued
-crawling until they had made a complete ring around us.
-The fakir kept walking about within the circle, and if any one
-attempted to encroach, he rapped it unmercifully on the snout
-with his stick, and drove it backward. Not one of them attempted
-to touch him, although they showed rows of teeth that
-seemed able to snap him in two at a bite. The quarters of the
-sheep were then thrown to them, and the scene that followed was
-so indescribable that I shall not attempt it; but I think that if
-you will turn to Milton, and read his account of the transformation
-of Satan and his crew in Pandemonium, you may form some
-faint idea ‘how dreadful was the din.’ In what manner these
-monsters were first tamed I cannot say. The natives, of course,
-ascribe it to the piety of the saint, who is called Miegger Pier,
-or Saint Crocodile.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The alligators of this country, though seldom tamed even for
-public exhibition, might readily be, as they do not differ in any
-important respect from the crocodiles.</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='XV' class='c007'>CHAPTER XV.<br /> <span class='large'>EDUCATION OF CATS AND GOATS.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Cats do not appear to be favorite subjects of the trainer’s
-art, and it is rare that they are met with among performing
-animals. Perhaps their sly, treacherous nature inspires a prejudice,
-or perhaps their capacity for learning is underrated.
-Certainly with proper and patient training they may be taught
-nearly all of the simpler tricks performed by dogs, and some
-which dogs cannot, from lack of equal agility. That cats possess
-considerable intelligence is shown by the many well authenticated
-stories related of them. A specimen is that told by Mr.
-Crouch, of a cat who learned to unlock a door of her own accord.
-“There was,” writes this gentleman, “within my knowledge, in
-the house of my parentage, a small cupboard in which were
-kept milk, butter, and other requisites for the tea table, and the
-door was confined by a lock, which from age and frequent use
-could easily be made to open. To save trouble the key was
-always kept in the lock, in which it revolved on a very slight
-impulse. It was often a subject of remark, that the door of this
-cupboard was found wide open, and the milk or butter greatly
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_148'>148</span>diminished without any imaginable reason, and notwithstanding
-the persuasion that the door had certainly been regularly locked.
-On watching carefully, the cat was seen to seat herself on the
-table, and by repeated pulling on the side of the bow of the key,
-it was at last made to turn, when a slight pull of the door caused
-it to move on its hinges. It had proved a fortunate discovery
-for puss, for a long time before she was taken in the act.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Cats may easily be taught to jump through hoops, climb poles,
-fetch and carry, and many similar performances, by adopting
-pretty nearly the same means as for instructing dogs. As cats
-are passionately fond of fish, this article will be found a valuable
-incentive to induce them to comply with your wishes. A small
-morsel should be given as a reward for each instance of obedience,
-while refractory conduct may be punished by a slight box
-on the ear.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Cats may be taught to turn the handles of little organs—either
-real or mere silent imitations—or music boxes, to turn a
-little spinning-wheel, to pull a bell-rope, to fire a pistol and a
-multitude of similar tricks. These are all, indeed, but modifications
-of one another. To instruct the cat, it is well to
-commence by teaching her to give her paw, like a dog. When
-this is learned, place the paw on the handle of the organ, which
-may have a loop of tape or ribbon attached to keep the paw in
-place, and give it a few turns. Let go, but continue the circular
-movement of your hand near her paw, as an encouragement
-for her to move her paw in the same manner. Should she not
-do so after a few moments, take hold of her paw again and repeat
-the movement as before. As soon as she turns the handle
-even in the slightest degree without your holding her paw, reward
-her. It will not be long before she makes a more perceptible
-turn, and will be more prompt to do so. Eventually she
-need only to be shown the organ to understand what is desired
-of her.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>When she turns the organ satisfactorily other articles may
-be substituted, such as a miniature model of a spinning-wheel,
-and a single lesson will be sufficient to show her that her duties
-are the same as with the organ.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To ring a bell, a pulling instead of a circular movement is required,
-but this is easier to teach. A bit of cloth may be
-attached to the string communicating with the bell, to afford the
-cat something convenient to seize hold of. It will be easy to
-induce her to seize it by holding it near her, or by aggravating
-her a little with it. When she does so, and causes the bell to
-ring, reward her. She will soon learn that the ringing of the
-bell is a signal for her to be fed, and that pulling the string
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_149'>149</span>causes that signal. Should you wish her to ring the bell only when
-ordered to do so, you should call her away, after she fully understands
-pulling the string, and then order her to “ring the
-bell.” If necessary, take hold of the string to show your meaning.
-When she has pulled it, reward her, call her away again,
-repeat the order, and so on until she understands your command.
-Should she ring then without orders, call her away and wait a
-few minutes before you again order her to ring.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Firing off a pistol may follow this, taught in the same way, a
-piece of cloth being attached to the trigger, and the pistol being
-secured in a stationary position. Merely snapping the trigger
-will do at first, then caps may be used, and finally powder.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A story is recorded of Cecco d’Ascoli and Dante on the subject
-of natural and acquired genius. Cecco maintained that
-nature was more potent than art, while Dante asserted the contrary.
-To prove his principle, the great Italian bard referred
-to his cat, whom, by repeated practice, he had taught to hold a
-candle in her paw while he supped or read. Cecco desired to
-witness the experiment and came not unprepared for his purpose.
-When Dante’s cat was performing her part, Cecco lifted
-up the lid of a pot which he had filled with mice. The creature
-of art instantly showed the weakness of a talent merely acquired,
-and dropping the candle, immediately flew on the mice with all
-her instinctive propensity. Dante was himself disconcerted, and
-it was adjudged that the advocate for the occult principle of
-native faculties had gained the cause.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To make a cat a good ratter she must not be handled by
-children, or any other person; must be fed rather sparingly at
-regular times, and as much as possible on fresh meat, and usually
-by the same person. She will soon become accustomed to
-such circumstances, will answer the call of this person who can
-change her about to different parts of the house, as a night in
-the cellar, and so on. When treated in this way she will become
-shy and wild, but will soon be a terror to rats.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Valmont de Bomare saw at the fair of St. Germain cats
-turned musicians; their performance being announced as the
-“mewing concert.” In the center was an ape beating time,
-and some cats were arranged on each side of him, with music
-before them on the stalls. At a signal from the ape, they
-regulated their mewing to sad or lively strains. Mons. Bisset
-having procured three kittens, commenced their education, with
-his usual patience. He at length taught these miniature tigers
-to strike their paws in such directions on the dulcimer as to produce
-several regular tunes, having music-books before them, and
-squalling at the same time in different keys or tones, first, second,
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_150'>150</span>and third, by way of concert. He was afterward induced
-to make a public exhibition of his animals, and the well known
-“cats’ opera” in which they performed, was advertised in the
-Haymarket theater. His horse, dog and monkeys, together with
-these cats, went through their parts with uncommon applause
-to crowded houses; and in a few days Bisset found himself possessed
-of nearly a thousand pounds to reward his ingenuity and
-perseverance.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i146.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>GOAT TRICK OF HINDOO JUGGLERS.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Another story of a cat we cannot refrain from giving: A lady
-who had a tame bird was in the habit of letting it out every day,
-and had taught a favorite cat not to touch it; but one morning
-as it was picking up crumbs from the carpet, the cat seized it
-on a sudden and jumped with it in her mouth upon the table.
-The lady was much alarmed for the safety of her favorite, but
-on turning about, instantly discovered the cause. The door
-had been left open, and a strange cat had just come into the
-room. After the lady had turned the strange cat out, her own
-cat came down from her place of safety, and dropped the bird,
-without doing it any injury.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_151'>151</span>Goats may be taught many tricks heretofore described. It is
-best to commence their instruction when they are quite young, as
-when older they are apt to develop an obstinate disposition, besides
-not being so apt pupils as when young. Goats not being very
-fastidious as to what they eat—asparagus or brown paper
-being devoured with about the same apparent relish—almost
-anything in the shape of fruit, vegetables, or bread, will do as
-a reward for good conduct. Harshness seems only to arouse
-their obstinacy or increase their stupidity, and we doubt whether
-it ever does any good. If we did not really believe severity
-would only defeat the aims of the trainer, we should almost be
-tempted to leave goats to take their own chances for kind
-treatment; for ever since a venerable specimen of the animal
-butted us, in our youth, down a steep bank, merely because
-in stooping to pick up something, we furnished a temptation
-too strong for him to resist, we have felt an unconquerable
-prejudice against the whole tribe. But after all the trainer
-will find bribes better than blows.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Many of the common tricks taught horses and dogs can be
-taught goats. As we have fully described the methods of
-teaching those animals it would be merely repetition to give
-minute details here; the method is substantially the same with
-goats as with horses or dogs, for the same tricks.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The Hindoo jugglers use the goat in dexterous feats of balancing.
-The sure-footedness of the animal enables him to stand
-on the end of a section of bamboo cane whose surface barely
-affords room for his four feet. Sometimes this stick is placed
-upright, the lower end being secured in the ground. At other
-times the bamboo stick, with the goat standing on its end, is
-balanced on the hand, chin or nose of the juggler.</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='XVI' class='c007'>CHAPTER XVI.<br /> <span class='large'>EDUCATED HOGS AND THEIR TRAINING.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Hogs are not very intellectual animals, but, fortunately
-for the trainer, what they lack in intelligence is made up
-in appetite, and by appealing to their stomachs their education
-is accomplished. “Learned pigs” and “educated hogs” are
-more common in England than in this country, though, probably,
-like the opera, they will in time become an acclimated
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_152'>152</span>institution. We had the pleasure of seeing the performance of
-quite an excellent artist in the pork line, who was traveling
-through the eastern states under the title of “Wicked Will,”
-as a side show to a circus.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Will traveled in a cage very similar to those used in menageries,
-except that it was smaller. This cage at the exhibitions
-was placed upon a platform with the grated part facing toward
-the audience. It was rather higher than was necessary to
-accommodate the hog, the upper part containing a number of
-compartments about six inches in depth, in which were kept
-corn, curry-combs, and other toilet articles. The exhibitor
-lifts the lid which covers these receptacles, takes a few grains
-of corn in his hand and drops them quietly on the carpet; then
-he opens a door at one of the small ends of the cage and Will
-emerges, grunting and sniffing around. The cage door is now
-shut, and while Will hunts for kernels of corn that have been
-scattered around, the exhibitor gives a little dose of natural history,
-hog characteristics, etc.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i148.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>EDUCATED HOG.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>The performance commences by the exhibitor placing ten
-cards, on which the numerals from one to naught are printed, in
-regular order across the front of the platform. Then he asks
-Will a number of questions, such as the number of days in a
-week, in a month, in a year—it is of no consequence <i>what</i>, so
-long as the answers can be given in numbers. The hog goes
-slowly from card to card, with his nose down, commencing at
-the figure 1. When he comes to the right number he takes
-it in his mouth and brings it to his master.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Now,” says the exhibitor, “if any lady or gentleman will
-tell the hog the year they were born in, he’ll tell them their age.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Somebody in the crowd gives the date of his birth, and at his
-master’s command Will selects the figures showing the man’s
-age. This is repeated a number of times for different individuals,
-to the wonder of the crowd. Then a watch is borrowed
-and the hog tells, in the same manner, the hour and minutes.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_153'>153</span>A suit of thirteen cards are substituted for the numbers, and
-the hog selects them as required to reply to various questions.
-After these have served their turn they are replaced by a number
-of cards on each of which is printed a single word in large
-type. Then the exhibitor continues in something like this
-manner:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Now, Will, I suppose you are very much obliged to these
-ladies and gentlemen for their attendance this evening; [Will
-selects cards, on which is printed Yes; and now, Will, I want
-you to tell these ladies and gentlemen what day this is [hog
-dues so]; and what are you going to give the ladies that come to
-see you? [Kiss.] Well, that’s very gallant! And what reward
-do you want for amusing these people? [Corn.] And what
-induces me to exhibit you? [Money.] So you think I am fond
-of money, do you? [Yes.] And I wonder if there is anything
-else I’m fond of? [Rum.] And what happens when I get a
-little too much of that article? [Drunk.]”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>And so on with a multitude of other questions which would
-be tiresome to repeat, but which it is quite amusing to see the
-hog answer. The card in each case would be brought to the
-exhibitor, who in all cases where the correct card was selected,
-dropped a few kernels of corn as a reward. Occasionally a wrong
-one would be brought, in which case a sly kick, or hit on the nose,
-was administered. Sometimes the hog seemed in doubt and
-would pick up a card and replace it, taking another; once or
-twice he stopped midway between two cards, turning his nose
-first toward one and then toward the other, squealing dismally,
-a very picture of perplexity. He had sense enough to know
-what he would get in case of a mistake. His mistakes, however,
-were very few.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The whole performance really consists in the hog selecting
-the card under the direction of his master. If the latter be
-watched narrowly, it will be seen that he changes his position
-from time to time, as the hog passes from one card to another.
-If the hog stops before he reaches the proper card the trainer
-moves his foot in the direction in which the hog should go; if
-he passes it the foot is moved in the other direction. When no
-movement is made the hog knows he is before the right card
-and picks it up. When the hog becomes confused and frightened
-this movement of the foot is quite obvious to a close observer,
-for at such times the hog does not so readily take the cue.
-This signaling is the secret of the performance; but before the
-hog can understand these signals, or will pick up the cards, a
-regular system of training must be pursued.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The pig—for the education begins when the animal is young—is
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_154'>154</span>first taught to come to the trainer when called. This is
-readily done by rewarding him when he obeys and thrashing
-him when he fails to do so. He is then taught to pick up articles
-in pretty much the same manner as in teaching dogs, and
-which we have already fully described. During the lessons the
-pig is rewarded with corn for obeying, and he is also fed immediately
-after his lesson, being kept a trifle hungry at other times.
-At first an ear of corn may be used in teaching him to pick up
-articles. He will naturally pick this up when placed on the
-ground. Instead of letting him keep it, however, call him to
-you, and on taking it away recompense him with some kernels of
-corn. He will soon learn that it pays better to bring you the
-ear over and over again, and be rewarded each time, than keep
-it himself. Then a cob without corn may be substituted. By-and-by
-cobs may be arranged in a row some foot or two apart,
-and the pig required to bring some one of them you have in mind.
-This is the difficult part; the pig will be inclined to pick up
-whichever comes handiest. This must be prevented by gently
-hitting his snout, and ordering him to “go on.” Always start
-him at the left of the line; you will be able thus to guide him better
-than when he goes hap-hazard. Keep on his left side, moving
-your foot toward him to keep him moving in the direction of
-the desired article. Avoid coming between him and the article.
-When he comes to it make no movement. If he picks it up,
-call him to you, take it from his mouth, reward him with corn,
-apple, or some other dainty, and replace the article in the row.
-If, however, he passes by it, change your position to his right
-side, and move your foot to urge him back.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>These movements of the foot, during tuition, are, of course,
-more vigorous than those used at public exhibitions. At first
-they merely threaten him and drive him in the required direction,
-but by-and-by he learns to observe them and to understand
-and profit by them. It is possible sometimes during the lessons
-to help the pig’s selection by pointing out the card or article,
-but this is not desirable, as it is of course unavailable in public,
-and the trainer must compel the animal to do his duty so soon
-as he is out of the “rudiments,” with no more help than can
-be used in public.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Pigs are very fond of having their backs scratched, and this
-will often attach them to their instructor, make them more
-docile, and consequently more easily instructed. They are not
-very apt pupils, and though they <i>may</i> be taught several tricks
-performed by dogs, it is very seldom their education extends
-beyond what we have described. We have known an exhibitor
-advertise a hog who would “go through the multiplication
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_155'>155</span>table,” but this proved to be a catch; a hoop being covered
-with paper on which the multiplication table was printed, the
-hog was made to jump through it. The humor of the “sell”
-saved the exhibitor from the indignation his deception might
-otherwise have aroused.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In Holland, quite a number of years ago, a hog ran a race
-against a fast trotting horse. The training adopted to prepare
-the hog for this novel contest was a good illustration of “educating
-through the stomach,” and the performance sufficiently curious,
-we think, to warrant insertion here. Somewhat condensed
-the story is substantially this:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A member of a sporting club at the Hague was bragging of
-the speed of a certain horse possessed by him. Another member
-asserted that he had a hog which he should not fear to
-match against him, and this proposal, though at first laughed at
-as a jest, ended in a match of six English miles, for one thousand
-guilders; fourteen days being allowed the owner of Nero, the
-hog, for training; and the horse to carry two persons. The
-course selected was the avenue leading from the Hague to the
-sea shore at Scheveningen; the hour, eleven o’clock.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The first day’s training consisted in giving Nero nothing to
-eat. On the second day, at eleven o’clock, his master appeared,
-and fastening a rope securely to one of Nero’s hind trotters,
-drove him, with many a kick and forcible persuasion all the
-way over the course of Scheveningen. Here Nero received
-two herrings, which he ravenously devoured. It is said that
-hogs—or at least Dutch hogs—prefer fish to any other food.
-On this scanty meal Nero had to tramp home.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The third day the hog was ravenous, but had to bide his
-time till, at eleven o’clock, his master presented himself for
-another trip to the course. After a liberal and energetic application
-to the booted foot, and a little loud and angry discussion
-between the two parties, they arrived at their journey’s end,
-where Nero was regaled with three herrings, being one extra,
-which he dispatched voraciously in double quick time, looking
-for more, but in vain. He was then, with much coaxing and
-kicking, persuaded to resume the return trip homeward, and
-which was safely accomplished, although not without considerable
-opposition, accompanied by vigorous squealing and determined
-grunting on the part of Nero.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>On the fourth day, when his master presented himself, Nero
-seemed to understand somewhat the object of his calling; he
-walked off, not only without compulsion, but with considerable
-alacrity, at a good round pace to get to his journey’s end, where
-his master regaled him not alone with his coveted dinner of
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_156'>156</span>three herrings, but, as a reward, yet another herring extra.
-On the fifth day Nero was fully up to the game, and his
-master experienced considerable difficulty to keep up with him.
-At Scheveningen the usual allowance—now of four herrings—was
-placed at his disposal, and disposed of by him in short
-meter.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>On the days following, and up to the time of the race, his
-master had no farther difficulty with Nero, but to keep up with
-him, Nero invariably taking the lead, although on the return
-trips the same difficulties always recurred. A vigorous application
-of boots was in such cases the only convincing argument
-with Nero, who never could see the point nor comprehend the
-necessity, of this back-track movement, and ever obstreperously
-squealed or grunted his objections. On the ninth day Nero had
-become perfectly trained, and having grown extremely thin upon
-his scanty meals, he now ran like a race-horse, invariably distancing
-his master, who followed with a fast trotting horse in
-harness. Both exercise and spare diet were, however, strictly
-adhered to up to the day preceding the one on which the race
-was to come off. On that, the thirteenth day, as on the first
-day, poor Nero was again starved. At the usual hour of eleven
-his master appeared, but Nero was doomed to disappointment—no
-trot, no herrings on that day. With eager eye and impatient
-grunt he signified his desire to be released from his pen;
-but, alas, it was not to be.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>On the fourteenth day both horse and hog appeared at the
-starting post, eager for the race. It was a beautiful day, and
-the road was lined the entire distance, on both sides, with anxious
-and delighted spectators eager to see the sport. Punctually
-at eleven o’clock, at tap of drum off they started, amidst the
-shouts and hurrahs of the multitude. The first two miles were
-closely contested—it was emphatically a neck and neck race;
-but Nero, light as feather, and having in his mind’s eye, probably,
-his delectable meal, now fairly flew over the course, gradually
-leaving the horse behind, keeping the lead the entire distance.
-Amidst shouts and hurrahs, the waving of handkerchiefs, and
-the wildest excitement, he reached the winning post, beating the
-horse by half a mile, and winning the race triumphantly.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>For this extraordinary performance, Nero was rewarded with
-a pailful of herrings, which, having feasted upon to his heart’s
-content, he waddled back to the Hague, in the care of his master,
-“the admired of all admirers.” His master, pocketing the
-purse of one thousand guilders, generously spent one hundred
-guilders for Nero’s portrait, which is now preserved at the
-sportsman’s club at the Hague.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_157'>157</span>It is said that hogs may be taught to destroy thistles. The
-tuition consists only in trampling them down, mashing the buds,
-and sprinkling salt thereon. The hogs eat these at first on account
-of the salt, but in so doing they acquire a relish for the
-thistles themselves, and this taste once acquired the thistles are
-eagerly sought for and devoured. It is claimed that one hog
-that has been taught in this way will teach all others in the
-drove. Possibly seeing him eat they imagine they are losing
-a treat and so eat too. If this statement proves true, the hint
-may be useful to farmers.</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='XVII' class='c007'>CHAPTER XVII.<br /> <span class='large'>PERFORMING MONKEYS—MONKEY EQUESTRIANS—THE “WONDERFUL CYNOCEPHALUS”—MONKEY ACTORS, ETC.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>In training performing monkeys the instructor is greatly aided
-by that imitative faculty which is a characteristic of the
-whole monkey family. The intense passion a monkey has for
-mimicking the actions of persons is well known, and to such an
-excessive degree is this passion sometimes possessed that several
-instances are on record of their cutting their own throats while
-attempting to shave themselves, having observed some man performing
-that operation. It is this imitative instinct which is
-taken advantage of in preparing monkeys for public exhibition.
-Indeed, their instruction consists mainly in the teacher performing
-the act himself, for the monkey to copy. This is the case
-with such tricks as taking off the hat, fencing with a little tin
-sword, sweeping with a little broom, and the like.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>During his instruction the pupil has a small leather belt
-around his body, to which is attached a cord several yards in
-length, which the trainer holds. The first thing taught is usually
-standing on the hind legs; this is done by holding the cord
-taut and the gentle application of a switch under the chin.
-This is not a natural position, still the animal can maintain it
-with comparative ease. Walking the tight rope is also easily
-accomplished, and furnished with a light balancing pole, he will
-go back and forth under the guidance of the “leading string”
-before mentioned. Jumping barriers or leaping through hoops
-held in the trainer’s hand, is taught by jerking the string and
-giving the monkey a slight cut with the whip. Hoops covered
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_158'>158</span>with tissue paper, or balloons, as they are technically called, may
-be substituted for the open ones after a few lessons, and add to
-the attractiveness of the performance.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Dressed in male or female apparel, the monkey’s naturally
-comical appearance is greatly hightened. Thus, one may be
-dressed to represent a lady of fashion, while another personates
-her footman, who, dressed in gorgeous livery, supports her train.
-This is elaborated into quite a little scene at some exhibitions.
-A little barouche, drawn by a team of dogs, is driven on the stage,
-a monkey driving while a monkey footman sits solemn and erect
-upon his perch behind. A monkey lady and gentleman are
-seated inside, she with a fan and parasol, and he with a stovepipe
-hat. Around the stage several times the equipage is driven,
-until by-and-by one of the wheels comes off and a sudden
-stop results. Down the footman comes, opens the carriage door,
-assists gentleman to hand out lady—who has fainted in gentleman’s
-arms just as she ought under these trying circumstances,
-and in a style that would do credit to any belle in a similar
-accident at Central Park—gets chair from side of stage for her
-to sit in, while gentleman fans her till she gradually recovers.
-Coachman meantime gets down and goes after the lost wheel,
-which he rolls to the vehicle and places therein; then mounting
-his box, drives off, for repairs it is presumed. By this time the
-lady has recovered, takes the arm of her escort and follows after
-the carriage, while the footman brings up the rear, carrying the
-chair.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i154.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>MONKEY “MUSICIANS.”</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>This is apparently quite a complicated performance, but is not
-particularly difficult. Each performer is taught what he is to
-do, the most intelligent monkey being generally assigned the
-footman’s character. The dogs are taught to run around until
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_159'>159</span>the wheel comes off; this is their signal to stop. In teaching
-the monkeys their parts a portion only of the scene is taught at
-first; thus some days may be consumed in merely making the
-actors occupy their appointed positions properly—such slight
-improprieties as the footman jumping down upon the heads of
-the lady and gentleman, or the gentleman pulling the driver off
-his seat by the tail, or the lady banging her cavalier over the
-head with her parasol, and like exhibitions of playfulness, being
-checked by applications of the whip. Gradually the “business”
-of the scene is built up—each lesson including all performed up
-to that time and a little in advance; nuts, bread and an occasional
-bit of candy, being the rewards for success, and whip for failure
-therein. Each monkey knowing his name, and being called
-upon by name when his turn comes, he by-and-by learns the
-proper time to perform his assigned work without any prompting.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The equestrian performances on pony or dog-back, styled
-“steeple chases,” and like tricks usually exhibited, scarcely require
-notice here. However amusing they may be it can hardly
-be said that the monkey’s part of the exhibition requires much of
-either intelligence or training, as he is usually strapped upon his
-steed and cannot very well help staying there. Sometimes,
-however, instead of tying the monkey in the saddle, a perch is
-erected on the fore part of the saddle, to which he clings frantically
-as the dog or pony rushes around the ring. This is no
-great improvement upon the strap, and the only training the
-monkey gets is a cut from the whip whenever he permits himself
-to be dislodged. For a trainer to break a monkey so as to
-ride a horse, carry a miniature flag, and hold on by the reins, is
-commonly considered a remarkable achievement. Occasionally
-though a monkey rider has been exhibited who has really performed
-in a manner not merely absurd. The most notable
-example of this kind was a huge ape of the cynocephalus or
-dog face family, exhibited in the winter of 1867–8 at Lent’s New
-York Circus, under the title of the “Wonderful Cynocephalus.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Monsieur Olivier, a French circus manager, had taken a
-troupe to India on speculation a short time previous to the
-Sepoy mutiny, on the breaking out of which his company
-disbanded, many joining the English troops. The manager
-then wandered in search of an opening for professional speculation,
-and while so doing attempted the training of several
-varieties of the monkey tribe. His success was by no means
-encouraging until, after years of failure, he came across the individual
-who is the subject of this sketch. The Cynocephalus
-was captured in Zanzibar, on the east cost of Africa, and from
-the first exhibited unusual intelligence, and after many months
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_160'>160</span>of patient training he was prepared to shine among equestrian
-stars. His débût was made at the Cirque Napoleon, where he
-immediately achieved celebrity. His performances afterward
-repeated in New York were equally successful, and a brilliant
-career was anticipated for him. Preparations had been made
-for his exhibition throughout the country, with the circus
-to which he was attached, but a week or two previous to
-starting on the summer tour the Cynocephalus was attacked
-with inflammation of the bowels, and though he rallied, and
-hopes were entertained of his recovery, he died some days before
-the time appointed for the start.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i156.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE “WONDERFUL CYNOCEPHALUS.”</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Of his achievements in the ring it is only necessary to say
-that he went through all the feats usually displayed by a
-circus-rider, jumping upon the horse, standing on one leg, then
-holding the other in his hand, then standing on his head,
-following this by somersaults, and finishing off with the customary
-vaulting through balloons and over banners. There was all the
-while a gravity of demeanor and seriousness of countenance
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_161'>161</span>contrasting favorably with the self-satisfied smirks and meaningless
-grins of his human compeers.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>As regards his tuition, each act had been taught separately,
-the ape with a cord attached to a collar around his neck and
-the other end held by his master, being placed in the required
-position, the horse was then started, and in each instance
-where the ape quitted his position before the horse was stopped,
-a cut from the whip was administered; every time the ape
-retained the position till the horse had gone a certain number of
-times around the circle, he was rewarded with a sweetmeat.
-Each time a change of position was to be made, which was
-always after a particular number of “rounds,” the horse was
-stopped and the ape made to take the new posture. These
-attitudes followed one another in regular sequence, and soon a
-mere change in the music was substituted for the stoppage each
-time the horse had been around the customary number of times.
-A hint from the whip was sufficient to remind the ape that he
-was to make a change. The banner and balloon tricks were
-readily taught by making him first leap them, when offered, while
-the horse was standing still, and afterward when in motion.
-The system of reward or punishment for success or failure was
-always kept up, and in his public performances a close observer
-would have noticed at any failure a frightened look from the
-ape and a sly cut of the whip, while after each successful feat a
-little sweetmeat was received from the pocket of the ring-master.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A very popular scene at exhibitions of performing animals is
-that in which a number of monkeys are seated around a table,
-spread for a feast. Two or three monkeys personate waiters
-and bring in, first candles, and then in succession the various
-courses, really consisting of things suited to monkey stomachs,
-but considered by theatrical license to be the customary viands
-of a grand feast. Bottles of water-wine conclude the repast.
-This is actually one of the simplest things for the trainer to
-accomplish. The guests being tied in their high chairs, their
-little bibs pinned around their necks, the only farther trouble
-with them is to keep them from fighting or stealing each other’s
-rations. The waiters bringing in the things, especially the
-lighted candles, look very pretty and very intelligent. This
-part is taught by having two strings attached to the monkey.
-The end of one of these strings is held by the trainer, the
-end of the other by an assistant off the stage. The assistant
-places an article in the monkey’s paw and slacks up his line,
-while the trainer hauls in on his, and by this very simple
-arrangement, first one and then the other hauling, the monkey
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_162'>162</span>learns to make the passage to and from the stage. Should
-he drop his load before reaching the person to whom he
-is traveling, a long whip-lash reminds him of his mistake,
-and the article is replaced in his hand, or he kept by it until
-he picks it up. It doesn’t take long to teach him that when he
-is given an article by one of his “workers” he is to take it
-to the other, and then the strings may be dispensed with,
-though a fine but strong twine is sometimes used even in public
-exhibitions, and we recall one occasion at a New York theater
-where the waiter got the twine entangled in some impediment
-and was held midway till released by the exhibitor. Though
-the twine could not be seen by the audience, the cause of
-the difficulty was too obvious to be mistaken, and some rather
-sarcastic applause was bestowed. On another occasion, in
-a neighboring city, we witnessed a squabble among the monkey
-guests, a general clawing and biting, ending with the upsetting
-of the chairs and the scampering off of the monkeys with
-chairs “hitched on behind.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The “drill exercise,” performed with a little musket, which
-the monkey fires off at the close, is a common but always
-popular exhibition. Any one who has seen a green recruit
-“put through” by the drill-sergeant can form a pretty correct
-idea of the method of training pursued in the case of the
-monkey. The instructor takes the required positions himself,
-using his whip in lieu of a musket, giving the word of command
-as he does so. Until the monkey understands these orders
-the trainer places his musket in the right position for him
-whenever he fails to do it himself. In case of willful disobedience
-or obstinacy, the whip is restored to its primary use, while
-good conduct is rewarded with equal promptness.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Sham fights are sometimes arranged for a number of monkeys.
-In this performance each monkey is taught his particular part,
-and rehearses it with the trainer till thoroughly familiar with it;
-then each monkey rehearses with the one with whom he is to act,
-until, as all become perfect in their parts, the whole act together.
-In rehearsing the monkeys perform each action at the word
-of command, being called by name. The mimicry natural in
-monkeys has here to be checked, otherwise the performance
-would be thrown into confusion by each copying the other’s acts.
-The monkeys are, therefore, punished for any movement
-without orders, or for responding when another’s name is
-called.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>To be trained successfully, monkeys must be taken when
-young, and the degree of docility and intelligence varies greatly
-with different species. The entellus monkey, a slender and
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_163'>163</span>graceful native of the Indian Archipelago, whose light fur
-makes a strong contrast with its black face and extremities,
-exhibits great gentleness and playfulness when young, but
-these traits change, as it becomes older, to distrust and listless
-apathy, and, finally, it becomes as mischievous as others who
-have never displayed any particular indications of good
-temper.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Some varieties seem to possess the ability to actually plan
-and carry out quite complicated operations, which, in a state of
-nature, are as remarkable as any of their performances in captivity.
-The mottled baboons display this in their robberies of the
-orchards of their native country. A part enter the enclosure,
-while one is set to watch, and the remainder of the party form
-a line outside the fence, reaching from their companions within
-to their rendezvous in the neighboring woods. The plunderers
-in the orchard throw the fruit to the first member of this line,
-who throws it to the next, and so it is passed along until
-it reaches headquarters, where it is safely concealed. All
-the time this is being done the utmost silence is maintained,
-and their sentinel keeps a sharp lookout. Should any one
-approach he gives a loud cry, at which signal the whole company
-scamper off, though always taking a load of fruit in their
-retreat, if possible, in their mouths, under their arms, and
-in their hands. If hotly pursued this is dropped piecemeal,
-but only when absolutely necessary to enable them to escape.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>As the disposition varies with different species, so also must
-the system of training. While one will require considerable
-severity, another can be made to perform only by being well
-treated and liberally rewarded. Once at the old Broadway
-theater, in New York, a very celebrated monkey stopped in the
-middle of a tight-rope performance and refused to continue.
-His master threatened, scolded, and finally flogged him very
-thoroughly, but he only jabbered and howled, and could not
-be made to finish his performance; his master ending by taking
-him in his arms and carrying him off the stage.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Many monkeys have a great liking for strong drink, and
-this weakness is frequently taken advantage of by other trainers
-to induce them to perform; a bribe of a little liquor often
-proving a more powerful incentive than anything else. A
-mandril, who, at one time, created considerable excitement in
-London, where he was exhibited under the title of “Happy
-Jerry,” was a remarkable example of monkey devotedness to
-the rosy god. Gin and water was his besetting weakness, and
-to obtain it he would make any sacrifice or perform anything
-within the bounds of possibility. In some instances sugar
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_164'>164</span>brandy-drops are used in public exhibitions as rewards, though
-this is done sparingly.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Besides these weaknesses of appetite, to which their trainers
-appeal, monkeys have a fondness for petting. Jardine mentions
-one of the shooloch species who was particularly pleased
-with caresses. He would lie down and allow his head to be
-combed and the long hair of his arms to be brushed, and seemed
-delighted with the tickling sensation produced by the brush on
-his belly and legs. Turning from side to side, he would first
-hold out one limb and then the other.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i160.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>BABOON FINDING WATER ROOTS.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>It is rare that any of the monkey tribe have been made
-available for any really useful purpose. Occasionally, we
-believe, they have been made to turn spits, and one case is
-recorded of a monkey on shipboard who was taught to wash
-dishes and perform several other of the minor duties of the
-culinary department, under the supervision of the cook. Among
-the Kaffirs of Africa a particular species of baboon, the chacma,
-is trained for a somewhat novel purpose. These chacmas
-will eat anything a man will, and torment the natives grievously
-by pillaging their gardens. The tables are, however, in
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_165'>165</span>some cases turned, and the chacmas made to provide food for
-the Kaffirs instead of deriving it from them.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The ordinary food of the chacma is a plant called babiana,
-from the use which the baboons make of it. It is a subterranean
-root, which has the property of being always full of
-watery juice in the driest weather, so that it is of incalculable
-value to travelers who have not a large supply of water with
-them, or who find that the regular fountains are dried up.
-Many Kaffirs have tame chacmas which they have captured
-when very young, and which have scarcely seen any of their
-own kind. These animals are very useful to the Kaffirs, for if
-they come upon a plant or a fruit which they do not know they
-offer it to the baboon, and if he eats it they know that it is
-suitable for human consumption.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>On their journeys the same animal is very useful in discovering
-water, or, at all events, the babiana roots, which supply a
-modicum of moisture to the system, and serve to support life
-until water is reached. Under these circumstances, the baboon
-takes the lead of the party, being attached to a long rope, and
-allowed to run about as he likes. When he comes to a root of
-babiana he is held back until the precious vegetable can be taken
-entire out of the ground, but, in order to stimulate the animal
-to farther exertions, he is allowed to eat a root now and then.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The search for water is conducted in a similar manner. The
-wretched baboon is intentionally kept without drink until he is
-half mad with thirst, and he is then led by a cord as before mentioned.
-He proceeds with great caution, standing occasionally
-on his hind legs to sniff the breeze, and looking at and smelling
-every tuft of grass. By what signs the animal is guided no one
-can even conjecture; but if water is in the neighborhood the
-baboon is sure to find it. So, although this animal is an inveterate
-foe of the field and garden, he is not without his uses to
-man when his energies are rightly directed.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id004'>
-<img src='images/i161.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_166'>166</span>
-  <h2 id='XVIII' class='c007'>CHAPTER XVIII.<br /> <span class='large'>RATS—MICE—FROGS—TOADS—FLEAS, ETC.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Rats generally are not favorites. There seems to be
-born in the human race a natural antipathy to these animals,
-and the preference with most persons would be rather
-to exterminate them than to attempt to tame them. Still rats
-<i>may</i> be tamed, though it must be confessed they are rather
-unattractive subjects, their odor being disgusting and their
-bite poisonous, probably from particles of putrid flesh adhering
-to their teeth—in many recorded cases fatally so.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Probably most readers have heard the story of the Frenchman,
-we forget his name, who was doomed to expiate some
-political offense in a dungeon cell; and how, to relieve the
-dreary loneliness and torturing monotony of his solitary existence,
-he strove to win the confidence of a rat which stole
-timidly forth from some crevice to pick up the crumbs dropped
-by the prisoner from his frugal meals. By slow degrees he
-labored to achieve his purpose, dropping a few crumbs on the
-floor and waiting motionless till the animal had come from his
-retreat and taken them; then, as the rat’s timidity gave way
-under the influence of this kindness, the man enticed him to eat
-from his hand, to climb up his leg into his lap, and by-and-by
-to permit himself to be handled, until at last the rat would
-nestle in the man’s bosom, come at his call, and in many ways
-display his affections for his master.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Mice are less ferocious than rats, more easily managed, and
-also make better performers, if it is desired to teach them tricks.
-The process of training is the same with both. In securing
-your captive, a trap which does it no injury should be used. To
-say nothing of the cruelty, an animal that is partially disabled
-or suffering pain, is not in a condition to learn well. The best
-traps are those in which wires are so arranged as to permit an
-easy entrance while they present an array of sharp points to
-prevent an exit.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The first thing after the capture is to tie a piece of fine but
-strong twine to the captive’s tail. This may be done without
-removing from the trap, or a wire or tin cage; he should be
-kept until so far tamed that he will not attempt to gnaw the
-string and escape when taken from his prison. During this
-time he should be well treated, supplied with food and water,
-and in no way irritated or alarmed. At the end of a day or so
-he may be allowed to come out upon a table, while the string
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_167'>167</span>which retains him is held securely. He will, probably, run
-around to examine the locality and then make an attempt to
-escape. At this point he must be gently but firmly drawn
-back, and we would advise that the first lesson consist merely
-in teaching him the uselessness of these attempts. At the next
-lesson a light wand, of willow or other wood, about twenty
-inches long, should be provided. Shortening the confining
-string so as to have your animal “well in hand,” you make
-him travel back and forth across the table in a straight line
-several times, guiding him by placing your wand in his way
-whenever he swerves from the correct course. Then make him
-go in a circle, then along a piece of board, or books laid on an
-edge, and any other convenient exercises to habituate him to
-follow your guidance. Remember, in doing this, that your object
-is to teach him—not to torment him. This wand is the
-real key to the performances of rats and mice. Though, these
-animals, doubtless, possess considerable sagacity, nearly all the
-tricks we have ever seen them perform have been mere obedience
-to the guidance of the exhibitor; so that when your pupil will
-go in the desired direction at the slightest hint with your wand,
-the main part of his training is accomplished, and you have only
-to arrange various little tricks in which the obedience will come
-in play.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>By placing an obstacle in his way of such a shape as he cannot
-readily climb over, and urging him forward, he may be
-taught to leap; soon little hoops of wire or wood may be held
-for him to jump through, and these may be raised gradually
-with successive lessons until he will spring a considerable distance
-into the air to go through them. During all the time of
-training it should be your object to tame your pupil and inspire
-him with confidence in you; this will enable you eventually to
-remove the string which secures him, and so add to the credit
-of your exhibition. He should also be accustomed to take food
-from your hand or from the point of a bit of stick. This will
-serve as the foundation of many amusing tricks. Thus a small
-piece of cheese may be placed on the end of a string or wire so
-arranged that the removal of the cheese will cause a little bell
-to ring or produce some other pleasing effect. After the first
-few lessons with this arrangement, in which the mouse will have
-become accustomed to securing his food in this way, the cheese
-may be simply <i>rubbed</i> on sufficiently to induce him to bite at it.
-He should at first be guided up to it with the wand and tapped
-gently under his chin to induce him to rise and seize it. A
-variation of this is the trick of carrying articles in his mouth.
-First give him some article thoroughly smeared with cheese; the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_168'>168</span>desire to secure the cheese will make him take it; then by
-urging and guiding him with your wand you can make him
-carry it about; being loth to relinquish the cheese, he will
-retain the whole. The amount of this bait used may be gradually
-diminished. By-and-by he may be made to convey little
-articles to and fro between two persons seated at opposite sides
-of the table. To do this, as well as for general convenience, it
-is well to accustom your pupil to come to you at some particular
-sound. This may be either the snapping of the finger nails
-or some slight noise of the mouth. It is easily done by making
-the noise, and, at the same time, pulling him toward you by the
-string attached to his tail. When he reaches you reward him
-with a morsel of cheese or bread, and repeat from day to day
-until he will come upon hearing the call.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Rats or mice may be used as motive powers to operate little
-models of machinery. This requires no training, as they are
-merely placed in a tread-mill contrivance, and being kept there
-their weight causes the works to move and compels the animal
-to keep up the motion.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i164.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>RAT AS A MOTIVE POWER.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>A little performance, a la Blondin, may be arranged for your
-mouse by stretching a piece of wire sufficiently stout to afford
-him a firm foothold, from two posts, about a foot in hight,
-fastened into a board. The ends of the wire may be at an
-angle, and also be secured to the board. Being guided by your
-wand up the slanting wire upon the main one, the dexterity
-with which he will run about upon it is quite surprising. If he
-has been already taught to hold things in his mouth he may be
-given a piece of wood, about the thickness of an ordinary friction
-match and twice its length, to represent a balancing pole, and
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_169'>169</span>this may be adorned at each end by a balancing flag or bit of
-ribbon. The <i>real</i> “balancer,” however, is the animal’s tail,
-which he will wriggle from side to side to preserve his equilibrium.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In the summer of 1867 one of the most attractive of the outdoor
-shows exhibited in Paris was that of “the man of rats,”
-well known to the inhabitants of the <span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">Quartier Mont Parnasse</span>,
-where he has held his headquarters for the last thirty years.
-The name of this Rarey of the rat race is Antoine Leonard. If
-the former succeeded in breaking in the worst tempered brute
-ever created, Leonard in three weeks certainly accomplished
-the difficult task of cultivating habits of obedience in the biggest
-rats that ever ran. His favorite scenes of action are some cross
-alleys in the 14th and 15th Arondissement. His sole theater is
-a sort of perch which he sticks into the ground, and then he
-takes his corps de ballet out of his pocket. At his word of
-command the rats run up and down the perch, hang on three
-legs, then on two, stand on their heads, and in fact go through
-a series of gymnastic exercises that would put Blondin himself
-to the blush. His crack actor is a gray rat that he has had in his
-troupe for eleven years. This old fellow not only obeys Leonard,
-but is personally attached to him. It is a most curious
-sight to see Leonard put him on the ground, and then walk
-away. The creature runs after him, and invariably catches him
-however many turns he may make to avoid him. An Englishman
-offered fifty francs for him about two years ago, but Leonard
-would not separate from his old and attached friend.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Some time ago, in passing through Beekman street, in this
-city, our attention was attracted by quite a large crowd gazing
-intensely at the telegraph wires which pass through the street.
-Following the example of the rest, we at last discerned, high
-up on the topmost wire, a mouse, that was running along evidently
-in search of some safe descent from his novel position.
-It seems that some boy had caught him, and the fact that the
-wires in that vicinity pass close to the windows of the buildings,
-had, doubtless, suggested the idea of placing him thereon.
-Whether the mouse would have persevered and traveled on to
-Albany, thus furnishing an example of sending articles by telegraph,
-it is impossible to say, for some person at a window
-within reach of the wire, by vigorous shaking, succeeded in dislodging
-him, and he fell to the ground among a crowd of boys
-who were eagerly waiting to receive him. In the scramble that
-followed he was captured, and borne off in triumph by a newsboy.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A shrewd dodge is related by a New York paper of a
-certain saloon keeper, who has been greatly annoyed by persons
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_170'>170</span>who sit about in chairs to sleep off the effects of bad
-whiskey. He has caught and tamed several rats, and trained
-them to run across the floor. A sitter wakes up and sees the
-rats running, and calls attention to the fact, when he is told
-there are no rats there. This frightens the man, who thinks he
-has got the <span lang="la" xml:lang="la">tremens</span>, and he quickly disappears from the saloon.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Frogs are made pets of in some countries. In Vienna may
-be seen gilt cages containing small frogs of a pretty green color,
-which are kept in drawing rooms, and amuse by their gambols.
-Curious stories are told of the domestication of the tree-frog,
-which is a native of warm countries. It is said of Dr. Townson,
-that he had two pet frogs of this variety. He kept them
-in a window, and appropriated to their use a bowl of water, in
-which they lived. They grew quite tame; and to two which he
-had in his possession for a considerable time, and were particular
-favorites, the doctor gave the names of Damon and Musidora.
-In the evening they seldom failed to go into the water,
-unless the weather was cold and damp; in which case they
-would sometimes abstain from entering it for a couple of days.
-When they came out of the water, if a few drops were thrown
-upon the board, they always applied their bodies as close to it
-as they could; and from this absorption through the skin, though
-they were flaccid before, they soon again appeared plump. A
-tree-frog, that had not been in the water during the night, was
-weighed and then immersed; after it had remained half an hour
-in the bowl, it came out, and was found to have absorbed nearly
-half its own weight of water. From other experiments, it was
-discovered that these animals frequently absorbed nearly their
-whole weight of water, and that, as was clearly proved, by the
-under surface only of the body. They will even absorb water
-from wetted blotting-paper. Sometimes they will eject water
-with considerable force from their bodies, to the quantity of a
-fourth part or more of their weight. Before the flies had disappeared
-in the autumn, the doctor collected for his favorite tree-frog,
-Musidora, a great quantity as winter provision. When he
-laid any of them before her she took no notice of them, but the
-moment he moved them with his breath she sprang upon and
-ate them. Once, when flies were scarce, the doctor cut some
-flesh of a tortoise into small pieces, and moved them by the
-same means; she seized them, but the instant afterward rejected
-them from her tongue. After he had obtained her confidence
-she ate from his fingers dead as well as living flies. Frogs will
-leap at the moving of any small object; and, like toads, they
-will also become sufficiently familiar to sit on the hand, and
-submit to be carried from one side of a room to the other, to
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_171'>171</span>catch flies as they settle on the wall. This gentleman, accordingly,
-made them his guards for keeping the flies from his dessert
-of fruit, and they performed their task highly to his satisfaction.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Another, yet more remarkable frog, is told of by a Virginia
-gentleman: “Concerning this frog,” says he, “it has lived
-many years with us and is a great favorite, and the greatest
-curiosity is its becoming so remarkably tame. It had frequented
-our door steps before our hall door some years before
-my acquaintance commenced with it. My father had admitted it
-for years on account of its size and color, and he visited it every
-evening, when it would come forth at his summons, and by constant
-feeding he brought it to be so tame that it would come to
-him and look up as if expecting to be taken up and brought to
-the table and fed on insects of all sorts. On presenting living
-insects it fixes its eyes intently and remains motionless for a
-while as if preparing for a strike, which is an instantaneous
-throwing of its tongue to a great distance, upon which the
-insect sticks fast to the tip by a glutinous matter. I can’t say
-how long my father had been acquainted with it; from my
-earliest recollection he spoke of it as ‘Old Tom,’ ‘the old frog.’
-I have known it for a great number of years—I can answer for
-fifty-seven years. It makes its appearance (always a welcome
-visitor) with warm weather and remains with us till fall, appearing
-morning and evening to our great amusement, having been
-trained to do many things, such as leaping, turning somersaults
-holding alternately by its feet and hands to a small rope, swinging
-and whirling, after the manner of a slack rope performer,
-marching erect oh its hind legs, and at the word of command
-going through the manual exercise. It seems perfectly good
-natured, and never shows temper, but is dreadfully afraid of a
-cat, on whose approach it will often leap four feet from the
-floor, with the utmost precision, plump into the mouth of a
-large stone water pitcher, and thus secure a safe retreat. Yet
-it is in no wise alarmed or disturbed by the presence of dogs,
-of which we have many about the premises. They all seem
-to regard it as one of the household and a ‘privileged character.’”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Were not this story apparently well attested we might doubt
-some of the details, as our own experience has shown that, while
-frogs are easily tamed, and may be taught quite readily to perform
-such simple feats as leaping, clinging to a string while
-swinging, and the like, they yet seem to possess no aptitude for
-learning any more elaborate feats. Some of our readers may,
-perhaps, be as successful as this gentleman was, and in that
-case we should be pleased to have them let us know of it.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_172'>172</span>It may easily be imagined that the capture and training of
-fleas would require a patience almost rivaling Job’s, and a skill
-which, in its particular way, might almost be called a triumph
-of genius. Yet that has been done, and some years ago a man
-gave exhibitions of what he termed “educated fleas,” which
-were quite popular and successful. This man was a German,
-who, at the time we speak of, was somewhat more than sixty
-years of age, and had been, with true Teutonic steadfastness,
-about twenty years engaged in his strange vocation. Fortunately
-he was endowed with a sharp pair of eyes, which not only
-enabled him to keep track of his little performers, over three
-score in number, but also to make the minute “properties”
-used in the exhibition.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>This “artist in fleas” took considerable pains to secure
-choice specimens for his collection, and had arrangements
-whereby they were forwarded to him by mail, carefully packed
-in cotton, from localities noted for their superior breeds. When
-not in use the fleas are packed away in pill-boxes between layers
-of cotton. They are fed twice each day; the manner of
-feeding being to allow each to suck one drop of blood from the
-trainer’s bare arm. This would be an ordeal few of our readers
-would probably care to submit to, but the hero of the sixty fleas
-had become so accustomed to it that he didn’t mind it in the
-least, and, for aught we know, rather enjoyed it.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The intelligence of fleas is not of a very high order, and their
-“education” is really very limited; the seeming marvels they
-perform being mainly clever management on the part of their
-exhibitor. When first received they are secured with a halter
-of the finest imaginable silk to prevent escape. The first
-thing they are taught is <i>not</i> to jump. For this purpose
-the end of the halter is secured to a pin in the table, and
-each jump naturally results in the prisoner being upset
-with a sudden jerk, with, no doubt, a rather unpleasant sensation
-about the neck. Sometimes a sharp pressure upon certain
-muscles is resorted to for checking this jumping propensity.
-Being well fed and well treated, when it behaves itself, even a
-flea will become tame. Punishment, too, for rebellious conduct
-is also practiced. As fleas are not well adapted for being flogged
-a new device is resorted to, a piece of burning charcoal, or
-heated wire, is held over them until they are subdued.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The usual performances consist in little coaches being drawn
-about by fleas harnessed up, while others of the troupe personate
-riders, coachmen and footmen. Then there is the ball-room
-scene, where fleas waltz around to the imaginary music of an
-orchestra of fleas, furnished with minute imitations of various
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_173'>173</span>instruments. There are also quite a variety of other tricks,
-but they are all pretty much the same in principle. The main
-secret in these performances is a piece of very thin wire, some
-ten or so inches in length, which the exhibitor holds in his hand
-during the entertainment. The end of this wire is greased with
-butter, which appears to possess a strong influence upon the
-fleas, for they will eagerly follow the wire in whatever direction
-it is moved. The audience, ignorant of this fact, attach no importance
-to the exhibitor’s directing with it the movement of
-his performers, and may even consider their following it a proof
-of superior training. By this means the fleas may easily be
-made to go through the desired movements.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Where the fleas occupy a stationary position a trick is resorted
-to which if on a large scale would be clumsy, but which in
-this instance defies the sharpest eyes to detect. The insects
-are fastened in their positions. Aided by the costumes with
-which they are encumbered, this is not difficult to accomplish.
-Natural movements are also made to pass for seemingly wonderful
-effects. Thus the performance of the musicians is nothing
-but the customary wriggling of the fleas. Any insect in a confined
-position will seize hold of a light article whether it be
-shaped like a fiddle or not, and twirl it about. With the fleas
-it is impossible for the spectator to distinguish exactly what
-the motion is—it is so rapid and everything is so small—and
-imagination makes up for a good many deficiencies.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>We have seen boys amusing themselves impaling a fly, belly
-upward, upon the point of a pin, the head of which was inserted
-in a cork standard, and giving him a little dumb-bell composed
-of pieces of cork connected by a piece of hog’s bristle. The fly
-would grasp this in his agony, and his convulsive movements
-would have a very exact resemblance to a dumb-bell performance,
-and be irresistibly ludicrous, however much one might
-sympathise with the victim’s suffering. It almost rivaled the
-professor and his fleas.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Once upon a time this troupe of fleas were exhibited at Berlin
-before the king and queen. The professor was suddenly
-seen to exhibit signs of great consternation. “What is the
-matter, Herr Professor?” inquired his majesty, on seeing that
-the performance had come to a stand still. “Sire, I perceive
-that one of my very, best performers, the great Napoleon, has
-got loose and disappeared.” “Let search be made at once for
-the great Napoleon,” replied the king, good humoredly. “Ladies
-and gentlemen, let the Herr Professor have your best help
-in recapturing the great Napoleon. In what direction, Herr
-Professor, do you imagine the runaway to have gone?” “If I
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_174'>174</span>may venture, sire, to reply frankly,” returned that personage,
-“I suspect the great Napoleon to have secreted himself about
-the person of her serene highness, the Princess F——.” The
-“highness” thus named, feeling anything but “serene” at the
-thought of affording quarters to such an intruder, made a hasty
-retirement to her own apartments, whence, after a brief retirement
-with her <span lang="it" xml:lang="it">cameriste</span>, she smilingly returned to the royal
-presence, bringing some object held delicately between her
-thumb and finger, which she cautiously made over to the professor.
-“Alas! sire,” exclaimed the latter, after a moment’s
-glance at what he thought was his discovered treasure, “this
-is a wild flea and not the great Napoleon!” And the exhibition
-was brought to an ignominious conclusion.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>We once heard of a performance somewhat akin to our professor’s.
-At a certain boarding school that we attended years ago,
-we noticed our room-mate one morning examining the bed in a
-manner to indicate beyond doubt that he was in search of an
-insect which is not usually a subject of conversation in polite
-society. Fortunately for the credit of the school he found
-none. In answer to our expression of surprise at his evident
-disappointment at there being none, he explained that he wanted
-to show us a splendid trick he had invented at home; and he
-went on to describe how he had often amused himself by gluing
-one end of a string to the back of an unfortunate bug, while to
-the other end was hitched a miniature model of a cart, made of
-paper. This, he said, was capital sport, especially when he made
-two of these teams race, and pricked the steeds with a needle to
-make them lively. This is the only example of bed-bug training
-we are able to record.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A very useful thing for farmers is the power of handling bees
-without liability to be stung. Many persons imagine this to be
-some gift or mysterious influence possessed by the successful
-operator, while others suppose it to be derived from some wonderful
-secret possessed by him. Though this “secret” is
-really quite a simple matter, the fact that a speculator has
-been selling it to bee keepers at the modest price of ten dollars,
-shows that it is an interesting subject, and we propose to give
-it to the reader without exacting any fee.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Let us suppose you have a particularly irritable colony in one
-of the modern hives, from which you desire to obtain the honey.
-The treatment must vary a trifle according to the particular
-design and arrangement of the hive, but the following directions,
-with very slight modifications, will answer for all. First
-confine the bees in the hive, and rap on the side of it with the
-palms of your hands or a small stick. The first efforts of the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_175'>175</span>bees will be to escape from the hive; finding this impossible
-they will rush to their stores and fill themselves with honey.
-Should the rapping prove insufficient to frighten them and
-cause them to fill themselves with honey, smoke from rotten
-wood, which is the best, cotton rags, or tobacco, may be made
-to enter the hive which will have the desired effect. Bees will
-never sting of their own accord when gorged with food, and in
-this condition may be handled with impunity.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>When swarming, or out of the hive for any reason, they may
-be “tamed” by placing water well sweetened with sugar within
-their reach. Bees can never resist the temptation and after
-they have gorged themselves with this preparation they are as
-harmless as when their sacks are filled with honey.</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='XIX' class='c007'>CHAPTER XIX.<br /> <span class='large'>“HAPPY FAMILIES”—ENEMIES BY NATURE MADE FRIENDS BY ART.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>One of the most entertaining and popular features of Barnum’s
-Museum, during the many years of its existence,
-was that miscellaneous collection of minor birds, beasts, and
-reptiles, denominated the Happy Family. Here in a huge cage
-are mingled many varieties of the animal kingdom which are, in
-a state of nature, deadly enemies to one another. Exhibitions
-of this kind are very rare in this country, though more common
-in Europe. Probably the first one ever seen here was that
-imported by Barnum in 1847, and which was the foundation of
-the present collection; though, like the boy’s jack-knife which
-first had a new blade and then a new handle, and then a new
-blade again, it would be difficult to find any of the original
-importation in the collection of the present day. It seems that
-Barnum, at about the date we have mentioned, was in Scotland
-“working” Tom Thumb, who was then on a grand exhibition
-tour. In the neighborhood of Edinburgh he accidentally stumbled
-across the Happy Family, which was then, though an excellent
-collection of animals, a rather one-horse affair as an exhibition
-by itself. The shrewd showman, ever on the lookout for novelties
-or curiosities, genuine or otherwise, fancied he saw a good
-speculation and bought the whole concern for $2,500, and
-brought it in triumph to his museum in New York.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_176'>176</span>
-<img src='images/i172.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE “HAPPY FAMILY” AT BARNUM’S OLD MUSEUM.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Curious and wonderful as this peaceable living together of
-animals of such diverse natures appears, there is really very little
-mystery in it. Many persons, noticing the sleepy and listless
-appearance of most of the animals, have quite naturally come to
-the conclusion that they were under the influence of some drug,
-which stupified them and rendered them harmless. We believe
-that in no case is this the fact, because it is not necessary. The
-main secret is to feed the animals to satiety; never allowing them
-to feel the pangs of hunger, the great incentive for preying upon
-other animals is taken away. Animals, unlike men, will never
-eat unless they are really hungry. We have frequently
-observed boa constrictors at public exhibitions, in whose cages
-rabbits or pigeons had been placed to gratify the public with
-the sight of the huge snake swallowing his food alive. Unless
-the snake is hungry the miserable little victims remain for days
-cooped up with the hideous monsters without the latter taking
-the slightest notice of them. It is a well known fact that cats
-which are fed plentifully cease to be good mousers, however excellent
-in that respect they have previously been, and will permit
-a house to be overrun with these pests without molesting them.
-Besides the plentiful feeding there is one other thing requisite
-to make the animals live together peaceably. Many animals
-have an instinctive desire to worry or kill others which are
-smaller or weaker than themselves. Between many particular
-animals a kind of natural antipathy exists. So natural does it
-seem that a dog should torment a cat that “a cat and dog life”
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_177'>177</span>has become typical of a very uncomfortable state of existence.
-There is on the part of all animals a feeling of suspicion and
-antagonism toward strange animals, even if they are of their own
-species. We are almost every day witnesses of exhibitions on
-a smaller scale almost as wonderful as the Happy Family, were
-it not that their frequency renders them common place. In
-thousands of households cats and dogs live together, not only
-without quarreling but on really friendly terms. Frequently
-have we seen cats and dogs feeding from the same dish, and
-recollect one instance where a diminutive kitten, in the innocence
-of feline infancy, seized upon one end of a bone which a
-monstrous watch dog was busily gnawing, without being molested
-by the dog. It is just as natural for cats to devour birds
-as for <i>any</i> beast or bird of prey to devour <i>its</i> victims, and yet
-we have been familiar with more than one instance of canary
-birds being allowed to fly around a room in which was the
-household cat, without the cat showing the least disposition to
-attack them. Had a strange bird came within her reach we
-doubt not that same cat would have indulged in a feast at his
-expense without hesitation. City dogs would make sad havoc
-among the inhabitants of any poultry yard if allowed admission
-therein, but let any one of those same dogs become a resident on
-a farm, let him understand that chickens and turkeys are sacred
-from his touch and he will soon walk among them as unconsciously
-as though there were no such things in existence. An
-instance is on record of a cat who had been deprived of her kittens,
-capturing a brood of young rats and suckling them with
-all the tenderness of a mother. In this case, however, it would
-appear that affection for the baby rats was not the motive for
-this strange act, for as soon as the cat was eased of the inconvenience
-of her milk, she disposed of her adopted family in a
-pleasant and effective manner—she ate them up.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In preparing animals for Happy Families it is usual to keep
-them in small cages, in the vicinity of each other. Occasionally
-two animals of different dispositions are placed together, the
-keeper preventing any fighting and punishing any symptoms of
-it. When the keeper thinks they may be safely left together
-he retires to a short distance to wait results. On the least
-sign of a quarrel he is down upon them, poking and punching
-and stirring them up generally. If they show no disposition to
-quarrel they are treated kindly, fed plentifully and permitted
-to enjoy themselves as much as their restricted quarters will
-permit. When an animal has thus learned to keep within the
-bounds of politeness and good breeding he is introduced into
-the large cage with the grand collection. In this large cage
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_178'>178</span>the principal disturbing elements are the monkeys, who frequently
-obstinately insist upon <i>not</i> being happy, and slinging
-the mice around by their tails, pulling out the birds’ feathers
-and other little acts of playfulness. The stout wire very soon
-reduces them to quietness, and it very seldom happens that any
-serious disturbance occurs. Doves and vultures roost calmly
-side by side, mice nestle confidingly in the cat’s soft, warm fur,
-and so natural does it all seem, that, for a moment one scarcely
-realizes of what incongruous elements the whole is made up.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The origin of this novel idea of the Happy Family was probably
-this: Francesco Michelo was the only son of a carpenter
-who resided in Tempio, a town in the island of Sardinia. He
-had two sisters younger than himself, and he had only attained
-his tenth year when a fire reduced his father’s house to ruins,
-and at the same time caused the death of the carpenter himself.
-The family were thus reduced to beggary, and the boy in order
-to provide for the necessities of his mother and sisters took up
-the occupation of catching birds for sale. Constructing a cage
-of considerable dimensions from laths he proceeded to the woods
-to secure the nests of young birds. Being active and industrious
-he succeeded tolerably well, but the prices he obtained were
-not adequate to the maintenance of the family. In this dilemma
-the boy conceived a new and original method for increasing his
-income; necessity is the mother of invention, and he meditated
-no less a project than to train a young Angora cat to live harmlessly
-in the midst of his favorite songsters. Such is the force
-of habit, such the power of education, that by slow degrees he
-taught the martial enemy of his winged pets to live, to eat, to
-drink, and to sleep in the midst of his little charges without
-once attempting to devour or injure them. The cat, whom he
-called Bianca, suffered the little birds to play all manner of
-tricks with her; and never did she extend her talons or harm
-them in any way.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>He went even farther, and taught the cat and the birds to
-play a kind of game, in which each had to learn its own part.
-Puss was instructed to curl herself into a circle, with her head
-between her paws, as though asleep. The cage was then opened
-and the birds rushed out upon her and endeavored to awaken
-her with repeated strokes of their beaks; then dividing into
-two parties they attacked her head and her whiskers, without
-the gentle animal appearing to take the least notice of their
-gambols. At other times she would seat herself in the middle
-of the cage, and begin to smooth her fur; the birds would then
-settle upon her back, or sit like a crown upon her head, chirruping
-and singing as if in all the security of a shady wood.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_179'>179</span>The sight of a sleek and beautiful cat seated calmly in the
-midst of a cage of birds was so new and unexpected that when
-Francesco produced them at the fair of Sussari he was surrounded
-instantly by a crowd of admiring spectators. Their
-astonishment scarcely knew bounds when they heard him call
-each feathered favorite by its name, and saw it fly toward him
-with alacrity, till all were perched on his head, his arms, and
-his fingers. Delighted with his ingenuity the spectators rewarded
-him liberally, and the boy returned joyfully to his home
-with sufficient money to last the family many months.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Not only do animals sometimes lose many of their natural
-characteristics by association with human beings or with other
-animals, but they even in some cases have been known to acquire
-the habits of animals of an entirely different species from themselves.
-One of the most remarkable instances of this was observed
-by La Malle. This gentleman had a kitten which had
-attained the age of six months when his live stock was increased
-by the arrival of a terrier pup, Fox, that was only two months
-old. The dog and the cat were brought up together, and for
-two years Fox had no association with other dogs, but received
-all his education from the three daughters of the porter, and
-from the cat. The two animals were continually together and
-acquired a great affection for one another; the cat, however, as
-the senior taking the lead. Soon Fox began to bound like a
-cat, and to roll a mouse or a ball with his fore paws after the
-feline fashion. He also licked his paw and rubbed it over his
-ear as he saw the cat do; nevertheless, owing to his native instinct,
-if a strange cat came into the garden he chased it away.
-La Malle brought a strange dog into the house, who manifested
-the utmost contempt and indignation for all Fox’s habits. M.
-Andouin, too, had a dog which acquired all the habits of a cat.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It has probably been remarked also, by most readers, that
-domestic animals almost always imbibe something of the disposition
-of their masters or mistresses. Thus, a plodding easygoing
-man will have a horse of much the same characteristics
-if it has been long in his service, whatever may have been the
-horse’s original disposition. Many similar instances will no
-doubt suggest themselves to the reader. It would seem that
-even mankind is not exempt from this influence, and that when
-men have not the energy or mental force to exert this molding
-power over the minds of their brute companions, the animals
-will exert it over them. At the risk of wandering from our
-subject it may interest some to have attention called to the testimony
-to this assertion, afforded by all uncivilized countries.
-Dr. Virey, who has given considerable attention to this rather
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_180'>180</span>queer subject, remarks: “Behold those men who pass their lives
-among animals, as cowherds, shepherds, swineherds, grooms,
-and poachers, they always acquire something of the nature of
-the animals with which they associate. It is thus that man becomes
-heavy and rude with the ox, filthy and a glutton with the
-pig, simple with the sheep, courageous and an adept hunter
-with the dog. In like manner the Arab is sober with his camel,
-the Tartar rough and blunt as his horses, the Laplander timid
-as his reindeer, the mountaineer active as the goat, the Hindoo
-somber as his elephant, because it is man’s fate to take the nature
-of his animals when he cannot form their nature to his.”
-Without recommending the adoption of this writer’s opinions
-entirely, for much that he has stated is no doubt due to climate
-and local causes, his theory is worthy of consideration by those
-who have a fancy for this kind of speculation.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A correspondent of the Agriculturist relates an amusing instance
-of a sort of “happy family” originated by the animals
-themselves: “About a month since two cats had a ‘family’
-within a few days of each other. All the kittens were drowned
-except two of each set, which with their respective mammas
-were snugly settled in a couple of boxes in the same room. On
-the following day both families entire—or rather what remained
-of them—were found coiled up together in the same box. They
-were not disturbed and thenceforward the two mothers ceased
-to recognize any difference between the two pairs of kittens.
-They would alternately nurse the whole lot, or both affectionately
-entwined together divide this ‘labor of love’ just as the kittens,
-lying snugly between them, would happen to turn to the
-one or the other. But this is not all. Eddie brought a couple
-of young squirrels from the woods, which soon became very
-gentle. In less than two days <i>both</i> were found in the box among
-the cats and kittens, drawing from either or both the maternal
-fonts, upon a like footing of equality and community with that
-previously enjoyed by the kittens. The old cats seemed to
-acquiesce fully in the arrangement, and so it proceeded for a
-couple of weeks, until one of the squirrels was accidentally killed.
-The other having the freedom of the house is now a romping
-playmate of both cats and kittens, who continue uniformly to
-treat him as ‘one of the family.’”</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_181'>181</span>
-  <h2 id='XX' class='c007'>CHAPTER XX.<br /> <span class='large'>EDUCATED SEALS—TAME FISH, ETC.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>At the Zoological Gardens in London, and at several places
-on the continent, seals have been exhibited which had
-been taught to perform a number of tricks. The first “learned
-seal” which appeared in this country was one exhibited first at
-Barnum’s old Museum, on the corner of Broadway and Ann
-street, and afterward in various parts of the country. Ned, as
-he was called, was quite a philosopher in his way, and submitted
-gracefully to the change from his secluded haunts on the
-icy shores of Greenland, to the excitements of a public life.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Seals are naturally docile and intelligent, but skill in grinding
-a hand organ is scarcely a gift which comes by nature, and even
-in the case of Ned it was necessary to stimulate his musical
-taste before he became an adept on that instrument. This stimulus
-was the same as that to which we owe the curb-stone performances
-of modern Romans—hunger.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>He had before this learned of his own accord to come up out
-of the water on the appearance of his keeper. He was kept in
-a large tank, or box, one half of which held the water, while the
-other half was floored over forming a platform on which he was
-exhibited. From this platform an inclined plane, formed of
-planks, led down into the water. Around the edge of the tank
-and platform a wooden railing extended, and in one corner of
-this enclosure was kept a tin box containing the fish with which
-the seal was fed. When the seal was first exhibited his keeper
-was in the habit of taking a fish from this box at each half-hourly
-exhibition, and tossing it to the seal who would come partly
-out of the water and open his mouth to catch it when he saw it
-in the keeper’s hand. This box had a lid to prevent Ned helping
-himself, and the seal soon learned that the noise of opening the
-box was followed by his getting a fish; so before long it was
-only necessary to tap on the lid to make him come up on the
-platform.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>There was one trick which Ned invented himself, and used to
-perform to his own great satisfaction. He always liked to
-be able to see his keeper, but visitors often crowded around the
-tank so much as to obstruct his view. When this happened,
-Ned had a way of beating vigorously about in the water and
-splashing the offending spectators so that they were glad to
-withdraw to a more respectful distance. This afforded considerable
-fun to the attachés of the museum, who had discovered
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_182'>182</span>Ned’s little game, while, we believe, visitors never suspected
-that their ducking was anything more than mere accident.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The first feat he was taught was to sit up on his hind quarters.
-This was easily accomplished by holding a fish in the air
-as an encouragement for the seal to keep an erect position.
-More difficulty was experienced in teaching him to play the
-organ. Day after day his paw was placed on the handle, while
-the trainer industriously turned the crank and held Ned’s paw
-in position at the same time. Ever and anon the man would
-remove his hand to see if the seal continued the motion, but
-down would flop Ned’s paw and he would gaze vacantly at the
-instrument without the least apparent consciousness of what was
-to be done. But by-and-by there was a little hesitation in the
-paw and it did not drop quite so promptly on the trainer’s hand
-being removed. Then Ned got a little fish. The next time the
-paw lingered quite perceptibly on the handle, and there was
-just the faintest movement toward turning the crank. Then
-Ned got a bigger fish, which he undoubtedly relished exceedingly,
-for all this time he had been on short allowance. So it
-went on, the seal grinding a few notes, increasing their number
-each time and being rewarded with fish, until he had learned to
-roll out the full supply of tunes the instrument afforded, though
-his “time” would have puzzled a musician, his efforts being to
-grind at the greatest possible speed, and we feel safe in asserting
-that his “Old Hundred” was the fastest thing on record.
-After every exhibition he was rewarded with fish.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id003'>
-<img src='images/i178.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>NED, THE “LEARNED SEAL.”</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Quite a number of instances are recorded where seals have
-been tamed without any design of public exhibition. A writer
-in the London Field gives some curious details of his own experiment.
-He says:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“When a boy, I was presented by some fishermen with one
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_183'>183</span>apparently not more than a fortnight old, which in a few weeks
-became perfectly tame and domesticated, would follow me
-about, eat from my hand, and showed unmistakable signs of
-recognition and attachment whenever I approached. It was
-fond of heat, and would lie for hours at the kitchen fire, raising
-its head to look at every new comer, but never attempting to
-bite, and would nestle close to the dogs, who soon became quite
-reconciled to their new friend. Unfortunately the winter after
-I obtained it was unusually rough and stormy. Upon that wild
-coast boats could seldom put to sea, and the supply of fish became
-scanty and precarious. We were obliged to substitute
-milk in its place, of which the seal consumed large quantities,
-and as the scarcity of other food still continued, it was determined,
-in a family council, that it should be consigned to its
-own element, to shift for itself. Accompanied by a clergyman,
-who took a great interest in my pet, I rowed out for a couple of
-miles to sea, and dropped it quietly overboard. Very much to
-our astonishment, however, we found that it was not so easy to
-shake it off. Fast as we pulled away it swam still faster after
-the boat, crying all the time so loudly that it might easily have
-been heard a mile away, and so pitifully that we were obliged
-to take it in again and bring it home.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A somewhat similar story is told in Maxwell’s Wild Sports of
-the West, where may be found a very interesting and touching
-narrative of a tamed seal, which lived for several years with a
-family, and which, although it was repeatedly taken out to sea
-in a boat and thrown overboard, always found its way back
-again to the house which it loved, even contriving to creep
-through an open window and to gain access to the warm fireside.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In the Jardin des Plantes, in Paris, there was, for some time,
-a specimen of the marbled seal. Two little dogs, in the same
-enclosure, amused themselves by mounting on its back, barking,
-and even biting it—all of which the seal took in good part.
-Sometimes it would pat them with its paw; but this seemed
-intended more to encourage than to repress their gambols. In
-cold weather, they warmed one another by huddling together.
-If the dogs snatched a fish from the seal’s mouth, it bore the
-loss patiently; but it generally had a fight with another seal,
-the sharer of its mess, until the weaker one sounded a retreat.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Some few years ago a “talking fish” was profitably exhibited
-in London and the principal provincial towns, at a shilling a
-head. The fish was a species of seal, and the “talking” consisted
-of a free translation of its natural cry into the words
-ma-ma, or pa-pa, according to the fancy of the showman or
-spectator.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_184'>184</span>Gold and silver fish are frequently kept as ornaments in glass
-globes or aquaria; those vessels which present the largest surface
-to the air being preferable. Fish kept in the flask shaped, or
-narrow mouth globes, so often used by thoughtless persons, can
-never be kept healthy, and their spasmodic efforts to get breath
-are a sufficient indication of their sufferings.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>These fishes may be easily tamed. Gentleness is the all-essential
-requisite. They can be taught to eat from their owner’s
-hand by first dropping morsels of food in the water while your
-finger is placed on the outside as near it as possible. For a little
-while they will be afraid to approach the food, restrained by
-the sight of the finger, but by-and-by they will approach and
-seize it. After they have ceased to fear your fingers on the outside,
-attach a bit of the food to your finger and cautiously insert
-it in the water; if hungry they will presently muster courage
-to come and take it, and in due time will take their food in
-that manner as a matter of course. If fed at stated hours they
-will learn to distinguish the approach of the customary feeding
-time and will signify the fact by floating up to the surface shaking
-their fins, and sticking their heads out of the water. In this
-same manner they recognize their master or mistress and express
-their pleasure at his or her approach.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A lady writer thus describes some fish kept in her family as
-pets: “They knew a wonderful deal more did these little fishes.
-They would come to the top of the water to be fed and take
-their food from my fingers. When they wanted fresh water
-they could call for it by making an odd, clicking noise. They
-would remain perfectly still while being talked to, and wink
-with evident satisfaction at the compliments lavished upon them.
-When, after a prolonged absence, their lawful owners returned
-to them, these little fishes would wriggle about and indulge in
-wonderful demonstrations of joy and welcome. Oh, the learned
-seal was nothing in comparison to them.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It is not alone gold and silver fish that admit of being tamed.
-A correspondent writing from Franklin, Indiana, says of the
-fishes in a pond on his grounds that they will approach on hearing
-his whistle, eat from his hands, and allow him to take them
-from the water. A little girl in one of the New England states
-rendered some trout, which inhabited a brook near her father’s
-house, so exceedingly tame, that, when feeding them, she was
-obliged to check the impetuosity of the more voracious ones by
-a little stick armed at the point with a needle.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Mr. C. L. Vallandigham, of Ohio, is our authority for the following
-story: “While upon the Island of Bermuda, in traveling
-from one portion of the island to the other, I passed by a
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_185'>185</span>stone enclosure, perhaps a hundred feet in diameter. The
-islands are coral in their formation. There was a pool of water
-full of fish inside the enclosure. I paid an English shilling for
-admission inside, where I saw perhaps a hundred fish, thoroughly
-tamed, each one having a name, and each one answering
-to the name by which he was called. One of them, I recollect,
-was called Dick. I spoke to him as I would to a dog, and he
-came and lifted up his head and allowed me to rub his back,
-just as you would a cat. Now, as I told you, if any body else
-had told me that I wouldn’t have believed it. But it is nevertheless
-true. There is just such a pool there, and they are so intelligent
-that they recognize their names.”</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i181.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>THE HIPPOCAMPUS.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Possibly some of our readers remember the queer little fishes
-Barnum exhibited some years ago, and which he called “seahorses”
-on account of the great resemblance of the heads to
-those of miniature horses. These were labeled as coming from
-the Gulf of Mexico, though in reality caught in New York Bay.
-They were what are known to naturalists as the short-nosed
-hippocampus, and being peculiar we give an illustration which
-will convey a better idea of their appearance than any mere description.
-They are commonly about five inches in length, and
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_186'>186</span>are to be found on many parts of our coast. When swimming
-about they maintain a vertical position, but the tail is ready to
-grasp whatever it meets in the water, and this is the means by
-which the creature appears to obtain rest. The tail will quickly
-entwine in any direction around weeds, or other supports;
-and when fixed the animal watches the surrounding objects intently
-and darts at his prey with great dexterity. They raise
-themselves to higher positions on their supports by the aid of
-the hinder part of their cheeks, or chins, when the tail entwines
-itself afresh. We do not think those at the museum performed
-in public but their keeper to while away leisure time made them
-very tame and taught them several little tricks, among others
-to perch in a row on his finger. The four little fellows, each
-only about four inches in length, presented a most comical appearance.
-The system of training in this case was very similar
-to that which we have described as having been practiced in the
-case of the “learned seal.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>We cannot say that we ever had any personal experience
-with oysters in the capacity of pupils, but in at least one case
-has a bivalve been made subject to the tamer’s art. In an
-English paper of 1840 we find a curious account of a gentleman
-at Christ Church, Salisbury, England, who kept a pet oyster
-of the largest and finest breed then known. It was fed on oat
-meal, for which it regularly opened its shell, and was occasionally
-treated to a dip in its native element; but the most extraordinary
-trait in the history of this amphibious was that it
-proved itself an excellent mouser, having killed at least five
-mice, by crushing the heads of such as, tempted by the luscious
-meal, had the temerity to intrude their noses within its bivalvular
-clutches. On one occasion two of these little intruders
-suffered together.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id004'>
-<img src='images/i182.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_187'>187</span>
-  <h2 id='XXI' class='c007'>CHAPTER XXI.<br /> <span class='large'>THE ART OF TAMING BIRDS.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Although birds are naturally of a timid disposition,
-very easily alarmed, and from their delicate structure
-unable to endure any but the most gentle handling, they may
-be made very tame and become quite attached to their trainer.
-We propose to tell our readers how to tame their birds, but to
-make these instructions successful they must be carried out
-with the greatest gentleness and patience. The utmost pains
-should be observed not to frighten the bird, as a single fright
-may render him so shy as to defeat all your efforts to gain his
-confidence. The following plan is the simplest and most uniformly
-successful that we have seen tried: The trainer opens
-the door of the cage and teases the bird gently with a soft feather.
-This he does till the bird pecks at the feather, then at
-his finger, and at last comes out of the cage and perches upon
-his hand. He then smooths his feathers down, caresses it, and
-offers it some favorite article of food, which it soon learns to
-take from his hand. He then begins to accustom the bird to a
-particular call or whistle; carries it upon his hand or shoulder
-from room to room, in which all the windows are carefully
-closed, lets it fly and calls it back. As soon as the bird becomes
-obedient to the call in the presence of other persons and animals,
-the same experiment is cautiously repeated in the open air, till
-at last it is rewarded with complete success. This process is
-well suited for nearly all young cage birds, especially linnets,
-bullfinches, and canaries, but it is dangerous to take these
-tame birds into the open air during pairing time, as they are
-liable to be enticed by the cries of wild birds.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Birds that are caught in winter often take to the cage more
-kindly than would be expected, but after their capture some
-days should be allowed them to become accustomed to their
-new situation, before expecting them to respond to your kindness.
-Newly caught birds should be put into a quiet place,
-shaded with a green woolen cover, so that the innate may not
-see persons moving about the room, and it should be supplied
-with abundance of whatever is supposed to be its favorite food.
-Hemp seed generally fulfills this requirement. It is an immense
-advantage to have a large cage made like the “trap” or
-store cages in which canaries are generally sold. The wooden
-bars are less liable to hurt new comers than those made of
-wire.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_188'>188</span>Whatever the cage, the food and the shading are essential
-points; and the bird will often become familiar with his mistress’
-voice before the cover is removed, and he able to see her. After
-the first day or two do not leave the seed tin always in the cage,
-but take it away after each meal for a little while, taking the
-opportunity of having a talk with the bird when you give it back,
-and gradually bring the cage a little nearer to you as it gets
-more tame. The water, of course, is always in the cage, and
-this must not be understood to imply a starving system, the
-only object in taking away the seed is to obtain the chance to
-talk with him and make friends when you bring it back. A
-single bird in a cage tames more quickly than when there are
-two or three.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A New York paper, speaking about the importation of canary
-birds from Germany, says the following sight was seen in Florence,
-Italy, in 1861, by a lady and gentleman belonging in New
-York. In walking in the principal street they overtook a man
-with a long whip in his hand, which he was moving from one
-side to the other in what they thought a strange manner. When
-they came up with him they found he was driving a flock of
-canary birds, as in England they drive a flock of turkeys. A
-carriage came along, and the man waved his whip in a peculiar
-manner, when the little birds all went to the sidewalk until the
-carriage passed, when they took the street again. A woman
-wanted to buy one, when the man sprinkled some canary seed at
-his feet and half a dozen of them came to him, when he took one
-up in his hand and delivered it to the woman, who paid him one
-franc. The man then went on again.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Elihu Burritt, the learned blacksmith, gives an account of
-Mr. Fox, of Tregedna, near Falmouth, England, who, by persevering
-kindness, has won the affection of a large number of birds—so
-much so that they fly to meet him when he calls them, and
-hop about him, eating the crumbs with which his pockets are
-well filled. When digging in his garden if is no common sight
-to see little birds hopping on the handle of the spade or rake used
-by the gentleman, thus showing their confidence in him. Sometimes
-they enter his bedroom early in the morning, through the
-window, and in their way call out, “It is time to get up.” On
-Sunday, when Mr. Fox goes to his place of worship, some of the
-birds are frequently seen to accompany him along the road chirping
-and singing all the way.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The following is a new and approved method where it is
-desired to tame birds in a very short time, and is applicable to
-all kinds of cage birds, proving efficacious in one or two hours:
-A portion—larger or smaller in proportion to the wildness of the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_189'>189</span>bird—is cut off from the inner plume of the pen feathers, so that
-the bird cannot hurt itself if it attempts to leave the hand, and
-the external appearance of the wing is not impaired. The nostrils
-of the bird are then touched with bergamot or any other
-odorous oil, by which it is for the time so stupified as to perch
-quietly on the finger or to hop from one finger to another. It
-may attempt to fly away once or twice, but this is not often repeated,
-especially if the experiment be conducted in a dark
-place—for example, behind a curtain, which offers the further
-advantage that if the bird fall it is not likely to hurt itself.
-As soon as it sits quietly on any one finger another must be
-placed in such a position as to cause the bird to step upon it.
-As soon as it is accustomed to hop quietly from one finger to
-another the main difficulty is overcome, for if when the bird is
-gradually aroused from its state of stupefaction it perceives
-that its teacher does not use it roughly, it may by degrees be
-taught to manifest perfect obedience to his commands. To
-teach it to eat from its master’s mouth it should be kept in the
-cage without food for some time. If it be then taken upon the
-finger and its favorite food be presented to it on the outstretched
-tongue hunger will soon teach it to feed. A story is told of a
-favorite magpie that had been accustomed to receive dainty bits
-from the mouth of its mistress. One day it perched as usual
-on her shoulder and inserted its beak between her lips, not, as
-it proved, to receive, for as one good turn deserves another, the
-grateful bird dropped an immense fat green caterpillar into the
-lady’s mouth.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Birds tamed by the preceding process may be taught to sing
-while perched upon the hand. To effect this it is only necessary
-to coax them by chirping to them and using encouraging
-tones. The chaffinch may be made to sing by whistling “yach!
-yach!” and stroking it on the neck; and the bullfinch by speaking
-to it in a friendly manner, accompanied by a backward and
-forward motion of the hand.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id004'>
-<img src='images/i185.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_190'>190</span>
-  <h2 id='XXII' class='c007'>CHAPTER XXII.<br /> <span class='large'>SONG BIRDS—THEIR MANAGEMENT AND TUITION.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>What is called the song of birds is always expressive either
-of love or happiness; thus the nightingale sings only during
-the pairing season, and the period of incubation, and becomes
-silent as soon as required to feed its young; while on the contrary
-the canary and others sing except when dejected by molting.
-The males are usually the best singers, in fact the females
-of several varieties have hardly what could be called a song.
-Female canaries, bullfinches, robins, and some others may be
-made to sing to a considerable extent by keeping them in cages
-by themselves and paying attention to their food and management.
-All birds should be kept clean, their cages washed out
-often enough to prevent the accumulation of filth, a supply of
-sea or river sand furnished, and also fresh water for bathing and
-drinking. The food of each species varies, but the following
-will be found adapted to nearly all cage birds:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“<span class='sc'>Universal Pastes.</span>”—<i>Number One.</i>—Thoroughly soak in
-cold water a well baked stale loaf of wheaten bread; press the
-water out and pour milk over the bread, sufficient to moisten
-thoroughly; then mix with it two-thirds of its own weight of
-barley or wheat meal, ground fine and sifted.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><i>Number Two.</i>—Grate a carrot and mix it with a moderate
-sized slice of bread which has been thoroughly soaked in water
-and the water carefully pressed out. While mixing add two
-handfuls of the above mentioned barley or wheat meal. The
-whole is then to be pounded in a mortar.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The above quantities are sufficient for quite a number of
-birds and must be reduced to suit requirements, as no more than
-one day’s supply should be prepared at one time. Careful washing
-of all utensils employed is of course essential to prevent
-sourness. Canaries should be furnished with a mixture of
-canary, summer rape, and crushed hemp seed. Goldfinches
-like poppy seed, with the addition occasionally of a little crushed
-hemp seed. They also eat thistle seed. Linnets and bullfinches
-rape seed alone. A little green food, as chick-weed, lettuce,
-cabbage or water-cress, is desirable about once a week. Quails
-are fond of bread crumbs and wheat. Larks prefer barley meal
-mixed with finely cut cabbage, or poppy seed and crumbs of
-bread, and oats in winter.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Varying the food of song birds has a tendency to make them
-sing. The very common practice of giving pet birds cake,
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_191'>191</span>sweetmeats, or sugar, is unadvisable; they prefer more simple
-food, and their health and musical qualities are impaired by
-this kindly meant but really unkind practice. A bit of cuttle
-fish bone is the best dainty. Too much hemp seed is injurious
-to all birds in confinement, often producing blindness, less of
-voice, and pulmonary disease.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The songs of cage birds are of two kinds, the natural and the
-artificial. The natural song is peculiar in each species. The
-artificial is that which the bird acquires by association with
-other birds, or which is purposely taught it. A bird is said to
-“warble” or “quaver” when it always repeats the passages
-or single notes of its song in precisely the same order. It
-“sings” when it utters the chirping or twittering interspersed
-with distinct notes without observing any regular succession.
-It “whistles” or “pipes” when its song consists of distinct
-round flute-like notes. Birds to sing well must enjoy good
-health, be well fed and be placed in a bright, cheerful, situation.
-The glaring rays of a hot sun can, however, be endured by but
-few birds. Birds are naturally endowed with a spirit of rivalry,
-and if placed where they can hear the song of other birds, will
-often sing better than they otherwise would. Varying their
-food slightly will often encourage them to sing. A German
-writer gives the following rules for canaries by which a good
-singer may be secured: “The first and chief thing is that
-while young the bird should hear none but a good song, and so
-not be tempted to intermix the notes of other birds with his own.
-Care must be taken to attain this object, not only at first, but
-at the first and second molting seasons, as the bird is then
-obliged to re-learn his song, and might introduce into it some
-foreign admixture. It should also be noted whether the bird
-prefers to sing alone or in company. Many birds are so self-willed
-as never to sing except they can display their vocal
-powers alone, while the song of others is always soft and low
-except when excited to rivalry by hearing the performance of a
-neighbor. Another very important particular to be attended to
-not only in the case of canaries but of all cage birds, is to give
-them their allotted portion of food every day, for if too much be
-given them at once they pick out the best at first and leave the
-rest for another day, which impairs their vocal powers.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The canary is a very imitative bird, indeed its song is mainly
-artificial, being derived from the birds with which it has associated,
-many of the original stock of the Canary Isles not singing
-at all. This fact renders its tuition comparatively easy. If
-several notes are repeated in succession on any instrument, and
-this is continued perseveringly, the bird will gradually try to
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_192'>192</span>copy them, and will finally succeed if both teacher and pupil
-possess the requisite talent. Canaries are capable of learning
-two or more distinct tunes. The tunes must be taught bit by
-bit and each piece thoroughly mastered before advancing farther.
-A flute is the best musical instrument to use. If desired that
-the bird should learn the song of another bird, a good singer of
-that variety may be placed near its cage. The weavers of
-Cheshire, England, are noted for possessing canaries of rare musical
-ability, who are the descendants of birds originally taught
-by a nightingale; the young birds of each successive generation
-learning the song of their parents. Loss of voice, which
-in the male is sometimes the consequence of molting, may be
-cured by feeding with a little lettuce seed.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Some years ago, for several days a pure canary attracted
-considerable attention while hanging in the publication office of
-the New York Tribune, on account of his singing Hail Columbia,
-and other patriotic airs, without mistake or loss of a single
-note.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>If it is desired to teach a canary to whistle, it should be removed
-from its companion when about two weeks old, at which
-time it will be able to feed and also to begin to twitter. The
-pupil is put in a small cage, which should be at first covered
-with a linen cloth, and afterward with something thicker. A
-short air should then be either whistled or played on a flute or
-bird organ within its hearing, five or six times a day, especially
-in the morning and evening, and repeated on each occasion half
-a dozen times. In from two to six months, according to the
-memory and docility of the bird, it will have acquired its lesson
-perfectly. Unless this training is commenced when the bird is
-very young it is likely to mar its performance by intermixing
-parts it has learned from the parent bird.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Though the natural song of the bullfinch, including both
-sexes, is harsh and disagreeable, very much like the creaking of
-a door or wheelbarrow, they may be taught to whistle many airs
-and songs in a soft, pure, flute-like tone, and are capable of remembering
-two or three different tunes. They are best instructed
-by means of a flute or by the whistling of the teacher.
-Slow learners do not, during the molting season, lose so quickly
-what they have acquired as those who learn more readily.
-The bullfinch will also learn the songs of other birds, but usually
-this is not considered desirable.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In Germany great attention is paid to the training of these
-birds, which is made a regular profession. We are indebted to
-Dr. Stanley for the following description of the mode pursued:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“No school can be more diligently attended by its master,
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_193'>193</span>and no scholars more effectually trained to their own calling,
-than a seminary of bullfinches. As a general rule they are
-formed into classes of about six in each, and kept in a dark room,
-where food and music are administered at the same time, so that
-when the meal is ended if the birds feel inclined to tune up, they
-are naturally inclined to copy the rounds which are so familiar
-to them. As soon as they begin to imitate a few notes the light
-is admitted into the room, which still farther exhilarates their
-spirits, and inclines them to sing. In some establishments the
-starving system is adopted and the birds are not allowed food
-or light until they sing. When they have been under this
-course of instruction in classes for some time, they are committed
-singly to the care of boys whose sole business is to go on
-with their education. Each boy assiduously plays his organ<a id='r5' /><a href='#f5' class='c013'><sup>[5]</sup></a>
-from morning till night for the instruction of the bird committed
-to his care, while the class teacher goes his regular rounds,
-superintending the progress of his feathered pupils, and scolding
-or rewarding them in a manner which they perfectly understand,
-and strictly in accordance with the attention or the disregard
-they have shown to the instructions of the monitor.
-This round of teaching goes on unintermittingly for no less a
-period than nine months, by which time the bird has acquired
-firmness, and is less likely to forget or spoil the air by leaving
-out passages, or giving them in the wrong place. At the time
-of molting the best instructed birds are liable to lose the recollection
-of their tunes, and therefore require to have them frequently
-repeated at that time, otherwise all the previous labor
-will have been thrown away.”</p>
-
-<div class='footnote' id='f5'>
-<p class='c009'><a href='#r5'>5</a>. A small barrel organ, called a bird organ, made for this purpose.</p>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>The goldfinch is a handsome, lively bird, uttering his sonorous
-song at all periods except when molting. It consists, in
-addition to several intricate and twittering notes, of certain
-tones which resemble those of the harp, and it is valued in proportion
-to the number of times the syllable “fink” recurs. The
-goldfinch may also be taught to whistle certain airs and to repeat
-the song of other birds, though in this respect it is not so
-docile as the canary.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Ducks are not commonly numbered among song birds, but a
-French paper, La France Chorale, gravely relates that an old
-trumpeter living in the department of the Meuse, knowing that
-it was possible to teach speech and music to parrots, starlings,
-blackbirds, magpies, and others of the feathered tribe, operated
-lately on a duck in his court. He obtained his pupil when a
-duckling, adopting it, and set about its education.  In a
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_194'>194</span>secluded corner he would sing to it an air a hundred times over,
-till the intelligent biped had grasped the melody. Soon the interesting
-creature commenced to quack little tunes, and at the
-end of six months could correctly repeat a considerable portion
-of the “<span lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">Femme a Barbe</span>.” The owner of the feathered songster
-is going to Paris to exhibit his bird.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Mocking birds are valued highly for their power of acquiring
-the notes of almost every other bird, imitating various sounds
-and even learning to talk. They should be taken when very
-young; birds old enough to be caught in traps either never sing
-at all, or only in an inferior manner. Their tuition consists
-merely in giving them the opportunity to hear whatever it is
-desired to have them learned. They usually begin to sing
-when two months old, and some bird fanciers think they improve
-in strength and fullness of tone when kept some years.
-It is less difficult to keep mocking birds than is generally supposed.
-A correspondent of Haney’s Journal gives the following
-as the best method of capturing and rearing these birds:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Take the trouble about the first of May to take a tramp
-through the woods and along the hedges until you find a nest,
-and be sure it is the right kind. Do not touch the nest, but
-visit it every few days, and when the young are hatched and
-can open their eyes and mouths, take the nest and birds home
-with you and set them in a cage. You then prepare some corn
-meal very soft, by scalding, and feed them every half hour by
-putting it in their mouths; when hungry they will open their
-mouths and cry if you approach them, then is the time to feed
-them; when they become strong enough to hop about the cage
-you may then put water and the meal in the cage and they will
-soon learn to feed themselves. The cage should be cleaned out
-at least every other morning, and fresh dry clean sand put on
-the floor. The regular feed of the birds should be corn meal
-and hard boiled eggs mashed together with a little water;
-scalded fresh beef is very fine for them, also a few polk berries
-occasionally, all kinds of fruits, bread that is not ‘short,’ meat
-not salt; never give them anything sweet. I nearly lost a fine
-bird by allowing it to get some sour molasses. The best medicine
-for the mocking bird is two or three spiders. Be sure to
-put a pan of fresh water in the cage every day, and as he is a
-great washer and invariably sings better if you give him plenty
-of water and spiders. The bird should never be let out of the
-cage, and he then does not know what liberty is. I now have
-one five years old, who will not come out of the cage if the door
-be left open all day; he can not be bought for $100. He has
-been reared according to the above method, and, besides this, I
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_195'>195</span>guarantee it to be the easiest and unsurpassed. So soon as they
-are old enough those which do not sing should be turned out
-that they may gain their living before the winter comes on.
-Never keep two in one cage after they commence to sing; they
-will fight until one dies. Summary: plenty of water, clean
-cage, no sweet or salt food, fresh meats, flies, grasshoppers and
-house spiders as medicine; polk berries as a cathartic; don’t
-expect them to sing during molting period.”</p>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 id='XXIII' class='c007'>CHAPTER XXIII.<br /> <span class='large'>TALKING BIRDS AND THEIR TRAINING.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Many of the larger beaked birds may be taught to speak
-words or even sentences, or will learn them of their own
-accord from overhearing them. This power is principally possessed
-by the even tailed parrots, in which the tongue is large,
-broad, and fleshy at the tip. Their articulation does not possess
-that accuracy and exactness of modulation characteristic
-of the human voice, but to a certain extent this is mimicked.
-Usually there is a harshness and crudeness in their speech,
-though in this respect they greatly vary.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>All birds possessing the <i>power</i> of learning to talk are gifted
-with a great imitative faculty, and therein lies the secret of
-their tuition. Parrots will often pick up words, or odds and
-ends of sentences, but usually it is desired that they shall learn
-some particular phrases, to suit the fancy of their owner. In
-this case a little drilling is required. The trainer should take
-the bird alone where there will be nothing to distract his attention;
-caress and pet him a little, then repeat the word in a distinct
-tone, and repeat at intervals of a few moments. Soon the
-parrot will attempt to repeat the word; caress him and reward
-him with a bit of cracker. Repeat this until he has learned the
-word thoroughly; when he has done so an alteration may be
-made in the method of training. On all occasions when he desires
-anything, make him repeat his lesson before his wishes are
-gratified. Gradually his lesson may be increased in length, new
-words or phrases being added. A lady relative of the writer
-possessed, some years ago, a parrot which was always anxious
-to be allowed to come from the hall, where he was usually kept,
-into the sitting room. Before he was permitted to enter he was
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_196'>196</span>always made to repeat a long string of nonsense, something
-like the following: “Pretty little, darling, sweet, beautiful,
-adorable Polly wants to come in.” This task he was rather
-inclined to shirk, and would commence with: “Pretty Polly
-wants to come in,” in hopes that would suffice. The door
-remaining closed, however, he would in a minute or two commence
-with: “Pretty little Polly wants to come in,” and so on,
-each time going away back to the commencement, and each time
-adding one of the previously omitted words until the whole were
-given and the door opened to admit him.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Usually there is no sense in a parrot’s expression; he “Polly
-wants a cracker” on all occasions, however inappropriate. He
-<i>may</i> be taught to use his language in a manner which is almost
-startling to one uninitiated into the secret of the matter, so apparently
-is it the action of reasoning powers. We have shown
-above how the bird can be taught to repeat any required set of
-words (within reasonable limits) to accomplish a desired result.
-The bird knows nothing about any meaning to these words, he
-only knows that by making certain sounds he receives a reward.
-Ordinarily a parrot will persistently assert that “Polly wants
-a cracker” when Polly doesn’t want anything of the kind, but
-<i>does</i> want a drink of water. The owner does not take the parrot’s
-statement as the expression of the actual want expressed,
-but merely that the bird wants <i>something</i>. The parrot consequently
-uses any phrase he has learned to express any desire.
-He is capable of associating certain phrases with certain
-results, without knowing anything of the <i>meaning</i> of the phrase.
-Thus, if he be taught the phrases: “Polly wants a cracker,”
-and “Polly wants a drink,” he will be just as apt to express
-either one by either phrase as he will to do so correctly; but
-if he receives cracker <i>only</i> when he asks for it, and a drink only
-when he asks for <i>that</i>, he will learn to associate the different
-sounds with the different results. This may be extended beyond
-this simple illustration as much as individual ability is
-capable of.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A story is told of a dweller in some eastern country who
-trained a parrot for sale. The bird’s education comprised only
-one phrase: “There can be no doubt of that!” To market the
-parrot was taken, and exposed for sale. Attracted by his beautiful
-plumage a certain rich man inquired the price. “One
-hundred sequins,” replied the owner. “Is he really worth all
-that?” inquired the customer; whereupon the bird exclaims,
-“There can be no doubt of that.” Charmed by the appropriateness
-of the reply the man buys the bird and takes him home
-in triumph, which triumph is changed to a disgust when the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_197'>197</span>limited powers of his prize are discovered. Enraged at having
-paid so extravagant a price for so poor a talker the man one
-day exclaimed in the presence of the bird: “What a fool I was
-to buy such a stupid thing!” Again the parrot’s single sentence
-comes in quite appropriate as he repeats, “There can be
-no doubt of that!”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A bird show was held at a museum in New York several
-years since, to which a parrot was sent that had been taught
-to repeat the Lord’s Prayer. This was advertised extensively,
-and hundreds of persons went to hear the wonder, but to their
-disappointment and the vexation of the owner, Poll would not
-utter a word during the exhibition, although fully able to do
-what had been expected. After the show, the parrot was taken
-home, and upon reaching its place it exclaimed—probably an
-accustomed phrase—“I suppose I can talk now,” and became
-as voluble as ever.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The bird’s silence was not remarkable, as song birds will seldom
-sing freely for some time after being taken to a new place;
-the speech on going home certainly seemed to indicate intelligence.
-A gentleman had taught his parrot to say, “Get
-your gun, John,” which was well remembered one night
-by the bird, for burglars entered the house, and Poll, hearing a
-noise, screamed out at the top of her voice, “Get your gun,
-John,” awakening her owner, and at the same time putting the
-robbers to flight.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>An Englishman describing another wonderful parrot hanging
-in a cage from the window of a house which he often passed,
-said: “It cries ‘Stop thief’ so naturally that every time I
-hear it I always stop.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It is very essential that the trainer should be on good
-terms with the parrot, in order to secure success, as they will
-not readily learn for one for whom they entertain any dislike.
-Under favorable circumstances not only do they copy the
-words of their trainer but even his peculiarities of voice. Buffon
-mentions a gray parrot which was taught to speak by a
-sailor during a voyage from Guinea, and acquired so exactly his
-harsh voice and cough as to be frequently mistaken for him.
-It was afterward instructed by a young man, and although it
-then heard no voice but that of its new teacher, the former lessons
-were never forgotten, and it often amused the bystanders
-by suddenly passing from a soft and agreeable voice to its old
-hoarse sea tone.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Not only do parrots learn to imitate the human voice but
-also that of animals. This is more difficult to teach owing to the
-difficulty of securing the sounds for the bird to copy. A bird
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_198'>198</span>of good powers will usually pick up this knowledge if it has an
-opportunity of frequently hearing the animals. The blue and
-yellow macaw, though it does not readily learn words (except
-“Jacob,”) seems to have a talent for imitating the bleating of
-sheep, the mewing of cats, and the barking of dogs, with great
-exactness.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It not only has the power of learning but often shows a desire
-to do so. It continually repeats the syllables which it has
-heard, and in order not to be misled in memory, endeavors to
-cry down all sounds which disturb it. So deep an impression
-do its lessons make that sometimes it dreams aloud. When
-young its memory is so good as to retain whole verses and sentences.
-Rhodiginus mentions a gray parrot which could repeat
-the Apostles’ Creed without a slip, and was on that account
-bought by a cardinal for a hundred crowns.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In Scotland a species of parrot is employed to call the names
-of the stations on the railway. Each bird is taught the name
-of the station at which it is placed, and this name it shouts on
-the approach of the train.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Several birds besides parrots possess the power of talking.
-Magpies are taught in Germany to imitate not only the human
-voice but many striking sounds. They are taken from the nest
-when quite young, otherwise this cannot be accomplished. A
-clergyman in Paris is said to have had two sparrows which
-were able to repeat the fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh commandments.
-It produced a highly comic effect when, in their
-quarrels over their food, one of them would gravely admonish
-the other—“Thou shalt not steal.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Ravens often talk with considerable fluency. In Thugaingia
-the traveler on entering an inn is frequently saluted with the
-appellations, “thief, rascal,” uttered by one of these birds.
-Some trainers with a view to facilitate the utterance of articulate
-sounds, are accustomed to cut what is called the string of the
-tongue, an operation which certainly attains its end in some
-measure, though ravens often speak on which it has not been
-performed.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id004'>
-<img src='images/i194.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_199'>199</span>
-  <h2 id='XXIV' class='c007'>CHAPTER XXIV.<br /> <span class='large'>PERFORMING BIRDS—THEIR TRICKS AND THEIR TRAINING.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>Birds may be taught a number of amusing feats, although
-some we shall explain require so much time, labor, and skill,
-as to render them rather more difficult than most amateurs will
-care to undertake, but there are many which any suitable bird
-may be taught, with reasonable pains. A person with a faculty
-for invention can arrange various little mechanical contrivances
-in the cages of his birds, more or less elaborate according to the
-skill and fancy of the inventor. A very neat arrangement consists
-of an inclined plane outside the cage upon which a little
-wagon may run, or a little tray slide, containing bird seed. To
-this vessel is attached one end of a string, the other end leading
-up the plane and being secured inside the cage. This is so arranged
-that when the string is pulled the vessel is drawn up to
-an opening in the cage sufficiently large for the bird to secure
-the seed, but not large enough to permit his escape. To teach
-the bird to draw this vessel up he must be kept without food
-until he becomes quite hungry. When hungry he will peck at
-anything in his cage.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The string should be so arranged that he can seize it without
-trouble, and the apparatus should work smoothly and require
-little strength. The seed vessel should be in sight of the bird
-so that he may be tempted by the seed. At first he will peck at
-the string as he would at anything else, and will naturally pull
-it without any idea of the result. When he sees this result almost
-every bird will persevere until he brings his “commissary
-department” within his reach, and instinct will teach him to
-retain it in place and prevent its sliding back by placing his foot
-on the string while he eats.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Houdin, the French conjuror, when a youth, was employed as
-errand boy in a lawyer’s office. In this office was a large cage
-of birds, the care of which was one of his duties. This afforded
-him an opportunity for exercising that talent which he in after
-years applied so successfully to the manufacture of automata
-and conjuring apparatus. He thus describes his labors: “I
-began by setting up in this cage a number of mechanical tricks
-I had invented at college under similar circumstances. I
-gradually added fresh ones and ended by making the cage a
-work of art and curiosity, affording considerable attraction to
-our visitors. At one spot was a perch near which the sugar
-and seed-glass displayed their attractions, but no sooner had the
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_200'>200</span>innocent canary placed its foot on the fatal perch than a circular
-cage encompassed it, and it was kept a prisoner until another
-bird, perching on an adjoining piece of wood set loose
-a spring which delivered the captive. At another place were
-baths and pumps; further on was a small trough, so arranged
-that the nearer the bird seemed to draw to it the further off it
-really was. Lastly, each denizen of the cage was obliged to
-earn its food by drawing forward with its beak small pasteboard
-carts.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>We have known the following arrangement to be used for
-bullfinches, which might be applied to other birds: The apparatus
-for drawing up its food and water consisted of a band of
-soft leather one-sixth of an inch in breadth, in which were
-pierced four holes, through which the feet and wings of the
-bird were put, and the ends united to a ring on the belly. To
-this ring was attached a small chain fastened at the other end
-to the seed and water vessel. When the bird is hungry it pulls
-the chain up a little way with his beak, puts his foot on it to retain
-the length already gained, then pulls again, and so continues.
-Sometimes the two vessels are attached to a pulley in
-such a manner that when one descends the other rises, so that
-the bird has to pull up each as he wants it.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Canaries may be taught to come and go at command. To
-accomplish this the cage should be provided with doors which
-open only <i>inward</i>, and which close of themselves. When the
-male and female have been paired the former is let fly in some
-garden where there are trees; the cage is then hung outside
-the window, that his mate may lure him back. This is repeated
-five or six days, always letting the male go again without touching
-him, so he may not be terrified. After a time the female too
-may be set at liberty, the door of the cage being left permanently
-open that they may go and return at will.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The European sparrow, which is becoming acclimated here,
-and will no doubt soon become as common here as there, is often
-taught to leave home and return at call. All that is necessary
-is to keep it a month in a large cage at the window, plentifully
-supplied with good food, such as millet, bread, etc. Winter
-is the best time for this purpose. An inmate of the Hôtel des
-Invalides, at Paris, is said to have made a sparrow so tame as
-to leave it perfectly at liberty without any fear of losing it. It
-was ornamented with a small bell fastened by a ribbon around
-its neck. It would not allow itself to be touched by any one
-but its owner, and was so fond of him that it could not
-be induced to leave him when at last he became bed-ridden. On
-one occasion it was caught and deprived of its bell. It was,
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_201'>201</span>however, melancholy and refused to eat until another bell had
-been provided.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It is said that crushed hemp seed fed to linnets takes away
-their love of liberty, and that it may be used advantageously
-when it is desired to teach them to come in through the open
-window without danger of their flying away. It is advised that
-they should be confined in a large cage placed in a window
-looking into a garden, for a considerable time before they are
-allowed to go out. Robins are often permitted to go away
-during the summer, and instances are often reported of their
-returning to take up winter quarters in the warm dwelling-house.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i197.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>TAMED BIRDS PERFORMING VARIOUS FEATS.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>Several individuals have made a regular profession of exhibiting
-performing birds. Uniting a peculiar skill and an exhaustless
-patience, these men labor ceaselessly in instructing
-their charges, and the result is that the birds learn to perform
-many surprising tricks. They are even taught to perform little
-dramatic scenes together; representing, for instance, the trial,
-condemnation and execution of a spy, in which the characters
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_202'>202</span>are all maintained by birds, and the action of the scene very
-cleverly represented. There is however a little trickery in this,
-the birds, although apparently acting without human agency,
-are in reality constantly under the direction of their trainer,
-who is usually concealed from the audience. Each bird is carefully
-instructed in his particular duties, and performs his part
-at certain signals or particular commands. While performing,
-the trainer carefully “works” the performers, keeps them up
-to their duties, and thus makes everything pass off smoothly in
-its regular order.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The method of training is merely an elaboration of what we
-have already given. The birds are first made perfectly tame,
-and then gradually encouraged to perform such little tricks as
-jumping over the trainer’s finger, seizing articles presented to
-them with their beak or claw, and other trifles. By-and-by the
-bird will wheel a little pasteboard wheelbarrow with the aid of
-a string attached to the handles, which he takes in his beak.
-Another bird is taught to take things in his claw by first having
-articles of food presented to him which he is only allowed
-to have when he takes them in that manner. Then some other
-article is offered him and when he takes <i>that</i> in like manner he
-is rewarded. When he will take an article at the command of
-the trainer all that is required for his performance is that the
-article desired should be offered him; thus the bird will take a
-miniature basket, gun, or any other article with equal readiness.
-A small lighted candle may even be used if managed carefully.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>When a bird has learned to pull a string, or seize with his
-beak what is presented to his notice, this accomplishment may
-be applied to many tricks, apparently very different. He may
-be made to fire off a pistol by pulling a string attached to the
-trigger; to draw a little bucket from a diminutive well; to ring
-bells; and an almost unlimited number of like actions. Walking
-on a tight rope, or wire, and carrying a little flag is readily
-accomplished after the foregoing training. The bird is either
-lifted or guided upon the rope, and the flag then given him.
-Many tricks consist in the bird merely retaining a position
-given him, as in a little swing, cradle or at a little table. A
-very tame bird may be placed in an upright ring, around the
-margin of which are candles or jets of fire. There was a
-sparrow at one exhibition which performed the seemingly wonderful
-feat of selecting from a shuffled pack, a card previously
-chosen by any of the audience. A dirty pack of cards was
-handed to one of the company, who selected a card, and gave
-it back to the exhibitor, who shuffled the pack after replacing
-the card; he then put the pack upright in a kind of card-case,
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_203'>203</span>which so held them as to leave about half an inch above the
-brim. The Java sparrow hopped on one of the cards, and
-finally drew the identical one that had been drawn. The explanation
-became easy on examining the cards. At one end,
-each card had a thin layer of sweet-wafer paste; the selected
-card was taken by the exhibitor and placed in the pack; all the
-rest of the cards had the paste end downward, while the card
-alone was placed back in the pack with the opposite end upward.
-And the bird naturally looked at the end.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The greatest humbug in Vienna is a school of trained
-goldfinches, which a woman has taught to draw numbers from
-a bowl, without, however, <i>selecting</i> any particular one, but
-merely taking them hap-hazard. All the superstitious lottery
-ticket buyers go thither for an augury, and the owner of the
-finches is reaping a rich harvest.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>In a work entitled Pratt’s Gleanings, for many years out of
-print, and now almost out of existence, we find the following
-description of an exhibition given by a bird tamer at a fair in
-the town of Cleves:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“The canary was produced, and the owner harangued him in
-the following manner, placing him upon his forefinger: ‘Bijou,
-jewel, you are now in the presence of persons of great sagacity
-and honor; take heed you do not disappoint the expectations
-they have conceived of you from the world’s report. You have
-got laurels; beware, then, of erring.’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“All this time the bird seemed to listen, and indeed placed
-himself in the true attitude of attention, by sloping his head
-to the ear of the man, and then distinctly nodding twice when
-his master left off speaking.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘That’s good,’ said the master, pulling off his hat to the
-bird. ‘Now, then, let us see if you are a canary of honor.
-Give us a tune.’ The canary sang.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Pshaw! that’s too harsh; ’tis the note of a raven, with
-a hoarseness upon him; something pathetic.’ The canary
-whistled as if his little throat was changed to a lute.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Faster,’ says the man—‘slower—very well—what a
-plague is this foot about, and this little head? No wonder you
-are out, Mr. Bijou, when you forget your time. That’s a
-jewel—bravo! bravo! my little man!’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“All that he was ordered or reminded of did he do to admiration.
-His head and foot beat time—humored the variations
-of both tone and movement.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Bravo! bravo!’ re-echoed from all parts of the room.
-The musicians declared the canary was a greater master of
-music than any of their band.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_204'>204</span>“‘And do you not show your sense of this civility, sir?’
-cried the bird catcher with an angry air. The canary bowed
-most respectfully, to the delight of the company.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“His next achievement was that of going through the martial
-exercise with a straw gun, after which, ‘My poor Bijou,’ says
-the owner, ‘thou hast had hard work and must be a little weary;
-a few performances more and thou shalt repose. Show the ladies
-how to make a curtsey.’ The bird here crossed his taper
-legs and sank and rose with an ease and grace that would have
-put half the belles to the blush.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘That will do, my bird; and now a bow, head and foot corresponding.’
-Here the striplings for ten miles around London
-might have blushed also.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“‘Let us finish with a hornpipe, my brave little fellow;
-that’s it, keep it up, keep it up.’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“The activity, glee, spirit, and accuracy with which this
-last order was obeyed, wound up the applause to the highest
-pitch of admiration. Bijou himself seemed to feel the sacred
-thirst of fame, and shook his little plumes and carolled an
-“Io paean” that sounded like the conscious notes of victory.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>A curious trick is performed by a particular kind of pigeon,
-quite common in India. These birds are called “tumbling
-pigeons” from their peculiarity which consists of tumbling on
-the ground, instead of in the air. When required to tumble they
-are taken in the hand, and the head slightly rubbed or “filliped”
-with the finger, and then they are put on the ground,
-when they continue to tumble until taken up. They are not
-left on the ground until their tumblings are completed, being invariably
-taken up after they have tumbled about a dozen times;
-probably they would injure or exhaust themselves, if left longer.
-The pigeons are always white, and though their wings are long
-and pointed, they seem to have small powers of flight.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id004'>
-<img src='images/i200.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-</div>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <span class='pageno' id='Page_205'>205</span>
-  <h2 id='XXV' class='c007'>CHAPTER XXV.<br /> <span class='large'>SNAKE CHARMING AND SNAKE CHARMER.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<p class='drop-capa0_0_6 c010'>On the subject of snake charming, a wide diversity of
-opinion seems to exist. While it is vouched for by many
-apparently creditable and honest citizens, that the exhibitions of
-the East Indian snake charmers show that they really do possess
-some mysterious power over the reptiles to which they owe
-their safety in freely handling the most venomous serpents,
-on the other hand, persons apparently qualified to express an
-opinion, declare the whole system of snake charming to be but
-some clever impositions. There is said to exist a species of
-snake of large size, and so closely resembling the deadly cobra,
-as to be easily mistaken for it by ordinary observers, but which
-is perfectly harmless. May not this be used in some of these
-performances? Again, snakes of really poisonous species appear,
-on good authority, in many instances, to have been tampered
-with by the charmers by having their fangs removed, or
-by being made to strike them into cloth or other substances until
-the present supply of poison was exhausted. Where this
-has been done, and new fangs have grown, or more poison
-secreted, numerous charmers have lost their lives by their
-ignorance or carelessness of the fact. An officer in a French
-regiment stationed in Africa, relates that what were represented
-by an Arab juggler to be scorpions, were actually nothing but
-harmless lizards, and that the man’s feat of thrusting his naked
-hand into the bag containing them was no feat at all. Upon
-the officer offering to do the same act, the juggler slunk away.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Music is often referred to as a probable secret of snake
-charming. This may be, in a small measure, the case, as snakes
-appear to like music. A story is told by the Gipps Land (Australia)
-Guardian, which may be entirely true, or, probably,
-<i>founded</i> on truth:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“We have all heard of the charms of music,” says the paper,
-“and many have, no doubt, been treated to stories which described
-its influence when brought to bear upon snakes; but we
-are informed of an occurrence during the past season which surpasses
-all that we heard before. When Mr. S—— was one
-day coming from Traralgon towards Rosedale, he was indulging
-himself in whistling a melodious air, while his horse was taking
-it easy at a walk. At no great distance in front he espied a
-good sized snake, with its head elevated about twelve inches
-from the ground, as if listening to the tune of the equestrian.
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_206'>206</span>Upon seeing it Mr. S—— was about to dismount to arm himself
-with a weapon to dispatch it, but presently he bethought
-himself that it might be under the influence of his sweet notes,
-and accordingly resolved to discover. He, keeping in his saddle,
-continued as before, and when he neared the admiring reptile
-it set its sinuous form in motion, and moved along rapidly
-till it got a considerable way ahead of the pipes. Then it
-halted, and again raised the region of its intellect to sip in the
-strains of the harmony in its rear. After a repetition of this
-scene for several times Mr. S—— determined on pushing his
-experiment further, and for this purpose set out in a slow trot,
-when, to his astonishment, the snake went double quick, still
-keeping ahead of the music, and regulating its pace by Mr.
-S——’s pace, ‘pulled up’ whenever he pulled up. At length
-Mr. S—— ceased his melody, and the snake, finding that the
-strain was ended, wound its way off into the forest. We may as
-well add that the tune which is reported to have thus charmed was
-no other than ‘Patrick’s Day,’ whistled by a son of the sod.”</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i202.jpg' alt='' class='ig001' />
-<div class='ic002'>
-<p>SNAKE CHARMER PERFORMING.</p>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_207'>207</span>The fact that many spectators of the exhibitions of the snake
-charmer failed to detect any deception does not prove that there
-<i>was</i> no deception. While the detection of imposition by others,
-in similar performances, would seem to argue the <i>probable</i> existence
-of it in the other cases. Even poisonous snakes can, by
-kindness and ample food, undoubtedly be rendered sufficiently
-tame to permit handling, and where charmers pretend to operate
-on strange serpents, it is suspected that the reptiles used are
-really tame ones, surreptitiously introduced beforehand into the
-places whence the charmer proposes to bring them forth by his
-charms. One case is recorded where a strange snake happened
-to be in the place so chosen; he destroyed the tame snake, and,
-on emerging, being mistaken by the charmer for his own snake,
-struck his fangs into the man when he attempted his usual
-jugglery with it, causing his speedy death.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>That dexterity and coolness enable men who, in eastern
-countries, make a profession of capturing dangerous snakes,
-which often intrude into dwellings, to capture these reptiles
-seems unquestionable; but the <i>familiarities</i> described by travelers,
-we believe to be attempted only with snakes which the
-performer has tamed and trained, or else rendered harmless, for
-the purpose. We will, however, give the opponents of this
-theory a chance to be heard, and so present a splendid account,
-which is given by an English officer in India, of the capture,
-by one of their professional snake catchers, of a cobra which
-had found its way into the room of a sick fellow-officer, and
-was discovered by the narrator on paying his friend a visit.
-After the alarm had been given, the usual confusion outside the
-door, and the various expedients proposed for expelling the unwelcome
-“squatter,” the narrative goes on to describe the arrival
-and doings of the snake catcher:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“He came, a tall, muscular native, a slip of cloth around
-the waist, his hair long and matted, except on the centre of his
-head, which was shaved close in a circle, and a turban covering
-it, bearing over his shoulders two baskets and a musical instrument
-made out of a gourd, with a single bamboo pipe coming
-from its upper end, and two smaller ones from its lower, like a
-flute, whilst the breath is blown through the upper and single
-one. Before he was allowed to enter the room he was searched,
-and his baskets and instruments taken from him. Nothing
-could have been concealed, for his clothing was reduced to its
-minimum, and he carried a short iron rod.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><span class='pageno' id='Page_208'>208</span>“He was shown a hole in which we supposed the snake to
-be, for the reptile had disappeared. He lay down on the floor,
-and placing his face close to the hole, exclaimed, ‘Burra sap;
-sabit babut burra.’ (Big snake, your honor, very big.) Without
-any more preparation, he commenced digging around the
-hole, and removed some of the brickwork. In a few minutes
-he showed the tail of the reptile, and with sundry incantations
-in Hindostanee and curious contortions of his body, seized hold
-of the tail, and gradually drew forth the snake. It proved to be
-a fine specimen of the cobra—a black, shining, wriggling, hissing,
-deadly cobra, about five feet long, at the thickest part
-eight inches round, with a hood measuring, when extended, five
-inches across. The reptile he handled freely, whilst it was
-hissing and darting its tongue out every second. Taking it in
-the yard or ‘compound,’ he released it. The brute wriggled
-itself toward him, and when within a foot or so reared itself up,
-spread out the enormous hood, and prepared itself to strike at
-its captor. But the charmer was not to be wounded. He
-seized his primitive instrument, and commenced very slowly to
-produce low and soft tones, very harmonious, but unconnected.
-The snake seemed astonished; his hood gradually collapsed,
-his head and about a foot of his body that was raised from the
-ground commenced to sway from side to side in perfect harmony
-with the music, and slower and quicker as the time was decreased
-or increased. As the man played louder, the snake got
-more excited, until the rapid and unusual movements had quite
-exhausted it, and it subsided.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Again the charmer seized it, and quick as lightning ran his
-hand up its body, holding it firmly by the throat. By pressing
-on its back the cobra’s mouth opened, and he disclosed the
-fangs, poison bags, and apparatus complete, thus proving beyond
-a doubt that it was not a trained or tame reptile he had
-been treating like a plaything. Doubts still arose in my mind,
-however, about the genuineness of the performance, for I could
-not bring myself to believe that a man would willingly place
-himself in such close proximity to certain death.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“A fowl was obtained and placed about a foot from the reptile,
-which was again set free. With the same movements it
-raised itself a foot from the ground, spread out its hood, and
-with a loud hiss, apparently of satisfaction, darted upon and
-seized the fowl by the back of the neck. Hanging there for a
-few seconds it let go its hold, and the man at the same instant
-seized it, as he had formerly done, by the head. The fowl almost
-instantaneously became drowsy, its head falling forward,
-and the beak striking with considerable force into the ground.
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_209'>209</span>The convulsive movement lasted ten seconds, and then the bird
-lay down as if completely comatose and powerless. In fifteen
-seconds it gave a sudden start and fell back quite dead.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“As no deception could have been practised in this instance,
-I was most anxious to see the reptile killed; but the charmer
-said he would not have it destroyed; that if it were injured
-the power he had over snakes would be interfered with, and
-the next one would no doubt bite and kill him. He accounted
-for his easy capture by saying this was a great holiday for the
-snakes, and that they had been enjoying themselves. ‘This
-one,’ said he, ‘is not living in this house. He has come from
-his home visiting, and has lost his way. On this account he
-got down a wrong hole, and I was enabled to pull him out.
-Nasty neighbors, and abominable visitors, these cobras! I
-will take this snake home, and feed him and make him tame.’</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“However, we insisted upon having the animal made harmless,
-or comparatively so, and directed the man to remove the
-fangs. This he agreed to do, and performed it in this manner—a
-piece of wood was cut an inch square, and held by the charmer
-to the head of the snake. The reptile seized it as he had done
-the fowl, and with a dexterous twist of the hand, the most
-primitive performance of dentistry was accomplished. The
-four fangs sticking into the wood were extracted by the roots
-and given to me. I have them now, and look upon them as
-more suicidally pleasant than a pint of prussic acid or a cask
-of white arsenic.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>“Another fowl was brought and attacked by the snake as
-before, but without any effect; it shook itself, rustled its feathers,
-and walked away consequentially. It is alive still, unless some
-enterprising culinary agent has converted it into curry or devil.
-So it was proved beyond any doubt that an Indian snake
-charmer was not a humbug and a swindler, as many suppose,
-but a strong-minded, quick-eyed, active, courageous man. The
-cool determination and heroism of the charmer in the present
-instance was rewarded by the sum of two rupees (two shillings,
-sterling), and he left the compound with an extra snake in his
-basket, thankful to the preservers of his children, as he styled
-us, and to whom, he said, he owed his life and existence.”</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>The snakes used in performances at circus or “side shows”
-in this country are not poisonous, though their bite causes a
-painful wound, which it is very difficult to heal. The snakes
-are fed to satiety, and the only thing necessary to constitute a
-“snake charmer” of this kind is the overcoming of the natural
-repugnance to these reptiles. What was exhibited as a wonderful
-example of affection between a child and a snake some
-<span class='pageno' id='Page_210'>210</span>years ago, was a hideous humbug. The story told by the exhibitors
-of the little girl meeting the snake, sharing her bread
-and milk with it, and becoming violently attached to it (which
-attachment was claimed to be returned), before the child’s
-parents knew of it at all, and how these strong friends refused
-to be parted, was a tissue of lies. The snake had been caught
-and tamed, and the little girl then compelled by her unnatural
-parents to fondle the repulsive thing, from which she instinctively
-shrunk, and these stories were started in the papers about
-this wonderful “love.” When curiosity had been aroused, public
-exhibitions were given, but we believe the enterprises proved
-a deserved failure, as few persons could endure to witness this
-outrage on nature, though many, doubtless, believed the story
-told.</p>
-
-<div  class='figcenter id001'>
-<img src='images/i206.jpg' alt='THE END.' class='ig001' />
-</div>
-<div class='pbb'>
- <hr class='pb c003' />
-</div>
-
-<div class='nf-center-c0'>
-<div class='nf-center c004'>
-    <div><a id='t002'></a>SELECT LIST OF</div>
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-    <div class='c005'>PUBLISHED AND FOR SALE BY</div>
-    <div class='c005'><span class='large'>JESSE HANEY &amp; CO., 119 NASSAU ST., NEW YORK.</span></div>
-  </div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c008'>☞ Any of these popular and valuable works mailed post paid to any
-address on receipt of advertised price. It is better, however, to order
-of local booksellers, who will generally be glad to obtain any work
-desired even if they haven’t it in stock.</p>
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-<hr class='c014' />
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-<p class='c009'><b>Carpenter’s Manual.</b>—Instructs in the use of tools and the various
-operations of the trade. A very complete and explicit work. <b>50</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Painter’s Manual.</b>—A complete practical guide to house and sign
-painting, graining, varnishing, polishing, kalsomining, papering, lettering, staining,
-gilding, glazing, silvering, analysis of colors, harmony, contrast, &amp;c. <b>50</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Watchmaker’s and Jeweler’s Manual.</b>—Gives latest and most
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-in all its grades, making tools, compounding metals, alloys, soldering, plating,
-&amp;c., with plain instructions for beginners. Greatly enlarged edition. <b>50</b> cts.</p>
-
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-Including all standard styles and many new and popular ones. Among others,
-German, French, Old English, &amp;c. A very handy book. <b>50</b> cts.</p>
-
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-other Painters. This book is now used in many prominent car shops and for ornamental
-work generally. While comprehensive enough for elaborate work, it also
-enables average skill to produce effective results. <b>$1.</b></p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Horse Shoer’s Manual.</b>—Includes preparation of foot, choice of
-shoes and their preparation, fitting, filing, nails and nailing, shoeing with leather, cutting,
-removing, &amp;c. Also Youatt’s Treatise on Diseases of Horses’ Feet. <b>25</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Soap-Maker’s Manual.</b>—Plain and practical guide for the manufacture
-of plain and fancy soaps, washing fluids, medicinal soaps, etc., for families and
-manufacturers. Has best American, English, French and German formulas. <b>25</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Taxidermist’s Manual.</b>—A complete and practical guide to collecting,
-preparing, preserving and mounting animals, birds, reptiles, insects, &amp;c. New
-and revised American edition, with many fine engravings. <b>50</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Rapid Reckoning.</b>—System of famous “Lightning Calculator,”
-whose exhibitions seemed almost miraculous; any can learn and apply; valuable to
-clerks, bookkeepers, teachers and all business men. <b>25</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Guide to Authorship.</b>—A complete, practical instructor in all kinds
-of literary work, and all business connected therewith. Useful to professionals, and
-invaluable to inexperienced writers desirous of getting into print. Also includes editing,
-proof reading, copyrights, value and disposal of Mss., &amp;c. <b>50</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Art of Training Animals.</b>—A complete guide for amateur or professional
-trainers, giving all the secrets and mysteries of the craft, and showing how all
-circus tricks, and all feats of all performing animals—from elephants to fleas—are accomplished.
-It also has an improved system of horse and colt breaking, breaking and
-training sporting dogs, care and tuition of song, talking and performing birds, snake
-charming, bee taming, and many other things, making a large, handsome volume
-of over 200 pages, and over 60 illustrations. <b>50</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Secrets Worth Knowing.</b>—A guide to the manufacture of hundreds
-of useful and salable articles, including patent medicines, perfumery, toilet and dental
-articles, and many others easily made at trifling cost and selling readily at large
-profit. <b>25</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Phonographic Handbook.</b>—For self-instruction in the modern
-improved system, used by practical reporters in the courts of law and on the newspapers.
-It unites simplicity with thoroughness. <b>25</b> cts.</p>
-
-<div class='nf-center-c0'>
-<div class='nf-center c003'>
-    <div><a id='t003'></a><span class='large'>SELECT LIST OF VALUABLE BOOKS.</span></div>
-  </div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Bad Memory Made Good</b> <i>and Good Made Better</i>.—Shows how a
-wonderful power of memory may be acquired by a simple art, readily learned, and enables
-its possessor to achieve feats incomprehensible to those ignorant of the secret. It will be
-of great assistance to teachers, pupils and professional men generally. Clergymen and
-speakers will save much time by its chapter on Speaking without Notes, as will students
-preparing for examination. <b>15</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Handbook of Ventriloquism.</b>—A practical self-instructor, with
-examples for practice and exhibition. <b>15</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Slow Horses Made Fast</b> <i>and Fast Horses Made Faster</i>.—System
-of increasing speed to which Dexter owes his supremacy, with much useful
-information for all horsemen. Endorsed by Robert Bonner, Esq. <b>50</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Self Cure of Stammering.</b>—<i>Not</i> an advertising pamphlet but a
-concise and plain exposure of the most approved and successful methods of Self
-Treatments, with exposure of empirical and dangerous devices. <b>25</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Impromptu Speaker.</b>—This is not a collection of set speeches, but
-guides the speaker in making his own. <b>25</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Hunter’s and Trapper’s Practical Guide.</b>—This book gives
-in compact form information otherwise obtainable only at ten times its cost, about
-care and use of arms; ammunition; making and using baits of all kinds; making
-and using traps, snares and nets; poisons; exposure of “charms” sold at high
-prices; bird-lime; preserving, stretching, dressing, tanning and dyeing skins and
-furs; fishing, &amp;c. Illustrated with 50 engravings.  <b>20</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Manual of Hair Ornaments.</b>—For Jewelry or Souvenirs. With
-over 80 illustrative diagrams. <b>50</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Tricks on Travelers.</b>—A little work exposing frauds practiced on
-travelers, and other information useful to strangers in great cities. Illustrated. <b>15</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Houdin the Conjuror.</b>—His wonderful, amusing and curious adventures,
-his marvelous feats, his startling magical contests with the famous Arabian
-jugglers, and other interesting matter. More fascinating than any fiction. Complete
-in one large double column octavo volume. Liberally illustrated. <b>50</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Home Recreations</b>, <i>or How to Amuse the Young Folks</i>.—Designed
-to afford fresh and agreeable entertainment for juvenile parties, holidays, and
-the home circle. Illustrated. <b>25</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Spirit Mysteries Exposed.</b>—A complete exposition for all the
-marvelous feats of the “spirit rappers” and “mediums,” Davenports, Hume, &amp;c.,
-so fully laid bare that any one can perform. Illustrated. <b>15</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Self Cure of Debility.</b>—<i>Consumption</i>, <i>Dyspepsia</i>, <i>Nervousness</i>,
-&amp;c.—Advertises no doctor or medicine, but gives plain instructions for self cure
-by simple means within reach of all which will cost <i>nothing</i>, and are the surest, safest
-and quickest methods of cure. Dangers of advertised modes of treatment, quack nostrums,
-&amp;c., are pointed out. <b>75</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Employment Seeker’s Guide.</b>—Gives advantages and objections
-of different trades and professions; how to succeed in business; how to get good situations,
-new openings, and much valuable practical information. <b>25</b> cts.</p>
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-<p class='c009'><b>Detectives’ Club.</b>—A most interesting book of detective life and
-adventure. Curious, amusing and thrilling. Large illustrated volume. <b>25</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Rogues and Rogueries of New York.</b>—Exposes all frauds and
-swindles of the great cities, from confidence operators to quack doctors, and swindles
-and humbugs by mail. Illustrated, <b>25</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Common Sense Cook Book.</b>—A large and excellent collection of
-approved cooking and domestic recipes. <b>25</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'><b>Fun Everlasting.</b>—Collection of capital stories, comic yarns, jokes,
-&amp;c., with over 100 side splitting pictures. <b>15</b> cts.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>☞For sale by booksellers generally, who will be glad to take orders
-even if they have not the book in stock, or will be mailed, postage paid
-to any address on receipt of marked price. Direct plainly to</p>
-
-<div class='nf-center-c0'>
-  <div class='nf-center'>
-    <div>JESSE HANEY &amp; CO., 119 Nassau Street, (P.O. Box 719,) New York.</div>
-  </div>
-</div>
-
-<div class='pbb'>
- <hr class='pb c005' />
-</div>
-
-<table class='table0' summary=''>
-  <tr>
-    <td class='c015'><span class='xlarge'>$250</span></td>
-    <td class='c015'>OF ADVERTISED<br /><span class='large'>INFORMATION</span></td>
-    <td class='c016'><span class='xlarge'>For 50 Cents.</span></td>
-  </tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class='c008'>By means of circulars and newspaper advertisements a thriving business is done
-in selling recipes, rights to make or use wonderful discoveries, and various secrets,
-&amp;c. Some of them are good, some worthless, some fraudulent. Many invest a few
-shillings or dollars out of mere curiosity or in hopes of money making or gaining
-knowledge. We have collected at cost of over <b>$250</b> all the prominent of these
-advertised things. Their sellers we find have no exclusive right to them, so we propose
-to give our <b>$250</b> worth to the public in a neat little book which we call the</p>
-
-<div class='nf-center-c0'>
-<div class='nf-center c003'>
-    <div><span class='large'>BOOK OF ADVERTISED WONDERS.</span></div>
-  </div>
-</div>
-
-<p class='c009'>This gives the good, bad and indifferent, but with comments explaining the real
-character of each. The following list will give an idea of the contents:</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>It tells you how to make vinegar in ten hours from molasses, sorghum cider, &amp;c.
-without drugs or chemicals; American gin without any distillation at 16 cts. per
-pint; Premium mead; Ale without malt or hops; Cure for asthma; Imitation cognac
-brandy equal to finest French genuine; Glycerine cement; Chinese art of
-dwarfing trees; How to raise the vinegar plant; Bee-keeper’s secret for securing
-fertilization of young queens by any drones desired; How to secure nearly double
-the usual product in artificial fish raising; Chemical paint, durable and odorless,
-of any color, without oil; Great water-proof varnish for boots and shoes; Kapnophyte,
-the new departure in fertilizers; Great art of chemicalizing manure; Great
-vegetable remedy for burns, scalds. &amp;c.; Food for mocking birds; Death to the
-cotton worm; India-rubber cement, Pound of butter from a pint of Milk; Ottawa
-beer; Artifinol rubber from milkweed.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Nickel plating without a battery; Art of saw-filing; Remedy for love of strong
-drink; Hunter’s secrets and private guide to trappers; “Mad-stones,” how to find,
-how to prepare and how to use the great natural remedy for bites of poisonous or
-rabid animals; Seltzer aperient; Excelsior axle grease; Art of sharpening saws;
-Magical British washing powder; Printer’s indispensable, improving and drying
-inks of all kinds and colors—greatest help to good printing ever invented; Imperial
-fly paper, or “catch ’em alive oh!” Soluble blues, or liquid bluing; English
-harness blacking; Preserving grapes in their natural condition all winter; How
-to make brandy from shavings; Apple butter without apples; Old orchards made
-new, Kainite, or tree medicine; Safety gunpowder; 100 pounds of soap for one dollar.
-How to keep apples fresh and sound all winter; Tyler’s permeating powder; How
-to restore vitality of seeds; Hunter’s secret; How to make honey from tomatoes;
-Chinese art of catching fish; Infallible remedy for potato rot; Liquid black lead
-polish; “All farmers and horse owners”; Barrel of soft soap for 75 cts.; Dead
-shot for rose slugs; Scrofula ointment; Rat killing without traps or poison; Baking
-powder; Maple sugar without maple trees.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Fifty methods of making money; Fire-proof paint; Premium black writing
-ink; Maic copying; Vegetable salve; Counterfeit detector; Art of painting on
-glass; Celebrated chemical compound; Hunter’s secret; Soft soap; Starch polish;
-Cider better than from apples and not intoxicating; Rheumatic liniment; Magnetic
-ointment; Indian pills; Red ink; Blue ink; Indelible ink, without preparation;
-Luminous ink; Red ruling ink; Yellow ink; Invisible ink; Water-proof Composition;
-Gunpowder; Shaving soap; Hard solder; Soft solder; Silver plating fluid;
-Great pain extractor; Matches; Horse taming; Oil-paste blacking; Metals preserved
-from rust; Sealing wax; Cologne water; Hair restorative; Curling liquid
-for the hair; Excelsior hair oil; Celebrated tooth powder; Cough syrup; Universal
-liniment; Brick paint; Wood paint; Best varnish; Leather varnish, Almond
-soap; Fancy soap; Non-explosive burning fluid; Florida water; Macassar oil;
-Lavender perfumed water; Buffalo oil.</p>
-
-<p class='c009'>Sun-light oil; Corassa compound; Inman’s cure for nervous weakness, &amp;c.;
-Clover vinegar; Curing pork without brine; Sure and safe remedy for warts;
-Electric blacking; How to add 50 per cent. to yield of grain at trifling labor and
-expense; Hardening gloss for printer’s inks; Whiskers in six weeks; Beautiful
-art of transferring any kind of pictures to glass; Great American washing fluid;
-Liebig’s great fertilizer; Gilding without a battery; Water witching, or art
-of finding hidden water, oil or other valuable fluids beneath the ground, with the
-forked switch; Yeast from grape leaves; How to soften hard water; Butter without
-milk or cream—artificial butter which cannot be told from genuine; Chinese
-cure for neuralgia; Pain paint; Artificial fruit syrups for soda water and a secret
-for adding largely to profits; Meat preserving in hot weather; Bordeaux wine
-imitation; Art of waterproofing cloth; Phycometic fascination, or art of soul
-charming; Colored fires for theatrical and other purposes; Boiler incrustation preventive;
-Vegetable cure for hydrophobia; Egg preserving secret; Laundry secrets;
-Art of pickling meat in one day.  100 pages.  <b>Price Fifty Cents.</b></p>
-
-<div class='pbb'>
- <hr class='pb c005' />
-</div>
-<div class='tnotes'>
-
-<div class='chapter'>
-  <h2 class='c007'>TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES</h2>
-</div>
- <ol class='ol_1 c003'>
-    <li>Moved advertisements on the cover p. <a href='#t002'>2</a> to just before the cover p. <a href='#t003'>3</a>
-
-    </li>
-    <li>Table of <a href='#CONTENTS'>Contents</a> added by transcriber.
-
-    </li>
-    <li>Silently corrected typographical errors and variations in spelling.
-
-    </li>
-    <li>Anachronistic, non-standard, and uncertain spellings retained as printed.
-
-    </li>
-    <li>Footnotes have been re-indexed using numbers.
-    </li>
-  </ol>
-
-</div>
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-<pre>
-
-
-
-
-
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