70 INGENUITY OF GOATS. 



to tui'n ; but, in its way back, met its companion, 

 which produced a most perplexing dilemma, for it was 

 impossible to pass each other. Rachel and I having 

 wandered near these ruins, in order to gather some 

 wild strawberries, which grow in the neighbouring 

 woods, arrived at this critical moment, and were 

 witnesses of their distress, without being able to assist 

 them. The poor animals were sensible of their un- 

 fortunate situation, and uttered the most doleful cries. 

 After anxiously viewing them for some minutes, we 

 ran to some cottages at a little distance, to see if it 

 were possible to discover any means of extricating 

 them. Men, women, and children, led by curiosity, 

 followed us to the spot ; but they could only sympa- 

 thize with the poor animals, without daring to attempt 

 their relief, lest they should be precipitated on the 

 rocks beneath. Many plans were proposed, but all 

 ineffectual. After a considerable time, when hope 

 had almost given place to despair, one of the goats 

 was observed to kneel down with great caution, and 

 crouch as close as it could lie ; which was no sooner 

 done, than the other, with great dexterity, walked 

 over him, and they both returned the way they came, 

 in perfect safety.* 



* This circumstance actually happened on the ramparts of 

 Plymouth Citadel, and is attested by Captain Martin. 



