THE DOG. 137 



relation to the civilised dog as to see the connection 

 between a Digger Indian and a Shakespeare or a Newton. 

 It is, then, no small credit to man that he has discovered 

 and brought out the grand qualities of the dog, and that in 

 making him his companion and his friend he has developed 

 virtues equal to those he himself possesses. 



It may be said that there never was a man who possessed 

 the proud stateliness of the St. Bernard, the unerring sagacity 

 of the sheep-dog, or the courage and tenacity of the bull- 

 dog. The vainest masher is not daintier in his ways than 

 the Italian greyhound, or more soft and affectionate than 

 the Blenheim. In point of fun and vivacity the terrier in 

 its many varieties stands higher, while in the exhibition 

 of unwearied devotion, fidelity, and affection, the whole 

 race put man to shame. Although rejoicing in undivided 

 affection, the dog is yet contented with an occasional word 

 from his master, he always renders prompt and cheerful 

 obedience, is ready to spring up a score of times from the 

 most comfortable sleep by the fireside in answer to his 

 master's voice, and is willing at once to abandon the most 

 comfortable quarters to brave all weathers if his owner will 

 but deign to take him with him. He will face any odds in 

 his defence, and will die in his service. Even roughness 

 and unkindness fail to shake his devotion, and in adversity 

 as in prosperity his fealty is unbroken. The dog is a fine 

 discriminator of persons, and while a well-attired stranger 

 who approaches his master's house will be greeted with 

 silence, or perhaps with a slight wag of welcome, his back 

 will bristle and his demeanour become unmistakably 

 hostile as soon as he perceives a tramp approaching. 

 Dogs are judges of character too, and no coaxing or 



