22 THOSE OTHER ANIMATES. 



the sheep. The donkey's song appears to express nothing 

 but his desire to favour all within hearing with a specimen 

 of the beauty and power of his voice, and of his amazing 

 vocalisation. Thus he lifts it up at all times, and in all 

 places, whenever the idea seizes him, and the utmost in- 





telligence of man has hitherto failed to grasp the meaning 

 of the strange, varied, and prolonged cachinnations. The 

 boldest animal trembles when it hears them. Man puts 

 his hands to his ears, and flies. It is not a challenge, it is 

 not a call ; it is indicative neither of hunger, nor of anger, 

 nor of satisfaction. It seems simply a vocal effort, and as 

 such is unique, but, unfortunately for the donkey, it is 



