94 Anecdotes of an American Croiv. 



serration, and for the acquisition and defence of his 

 natural rights. Yet, in general, he was peaceable 

 and social with all the animals about him. 



He was the most troublesome and teazing to a 

 large dog, whom he could never conquer. This old 

 dog, from natural fidelity, and a particular attachment, 

 commonly lay down near me, when I was at rest, 

 reading or writing under the shade of a pear-tree, in 

 the garden, near the house. Tom (I believe from a 

 passion of jealousy) would approach me, with his 

 usual caresses, and flattery, and after securing my 

 notice and regard, he would address the dog in some 

 degree of complaisance, and by words and actions ; 

 and, if he could obtain access to him, would tickle 

 him with his bill, jump upon him, and compose him- 

 self, for a little while. It was evident, however, that 

 this seeming sociability was mere artifice to gain an 

 opportunity to practise some mischievous trick ; for 

 no sooner did he observe the old dog to be dozing, 

 than he would be sure to pinch his lips, and pluck 

 his beard. At length, however, these bold and ha- 

 zardous achievements had nearly cost him his life : 

 for, one time, the dog being highly provoked, he 

 made so sudden and fierce a snap, that the crow nar- 

 rowly escaped with his head. After this, Tom was 

 war) - , and used every caution and deliberation in his 

 approaches, examining the dog's eyes and move- 

 ments, to be sure that he was really asleep, and at 

 last would not venture nearer than his tail, and then 

 by slow, silent, and wary steps, in a sideways, or 

 oblique manner, spreading his legs, and reaching 



