XI 



THE STAG 



DEER are our big game ; the interesting relics, 

 retained through a process of preservation, 

 of larger animals than any we now possess. 



The roe most nearly approaches the wild 

 condition. His small size, and ungregarious habits 

 enable him to lead a comparatively free, and 

 roving life. He is spread over the Highlands, 

 and thinly scattered through the Lowlands. The 

 fallow-deer, albeit degraded into an ornamental 

 animal, still wanders in some of the ruder parts of 

 the country, beyond the park fence, and seems 

 as well able to brave the winter, and look after 

 himself, as the roe. Both demand the nearness of 

 cover for shelter. 



The stag is the natural head of the family; and 

 holds, undisputed, the proud position of premier 

 wild creature wild, I am afraid, by courtesy of 



Scotland. 



175 



