1566 THE STORY OF THE UNIVERSE 



sion of beings who are suspicious, prompt in flight, 

 and as fleet as themselves. Thus it is among these 

 that we expect to find the art of hunting most 

 cultivated; especially if we put aside the more 

 grossly carnivorous of them, whose whole organiza- 

 tion is adapted for rapid and effective results. 



The most rudimentary method of hunting in am- 

 bush is simply to take advantage of some favorable 

 external circumstance to obtain concealment, and 

 then to await the approach of the prey. Some ani- 

 mals place themselves behind a tuft of grass, others 

 thrust themselves into a thicket, or hang on to the 

 branch of a tree in order to fall suddenly on the vic- 

 tim who innocently approaches the perfidious am- 

 bush. The crocodile, as described by Sir Samuel 

 Baker, conceals himself by his skill in plunging 

 noiselessly. On the bank a group of birds have 

 alighted. They search the mud for insects or worms, 

 .or simply approach the stream to drink or bathe. In 

 spite of his great size and robust appetite the croco- 

 dile does not disdain this slight dish; but the least 

 noise, the least wrinkle on the surface of the water 

 would cause the future repast to vanish. The 

 reptile plunges, the birds continue without sus- 

 picion to come and go. Suddenly there emerges 

 before them the huge open jaw armed with formida- 

 ble teeth. In the moment of stupor and immobility 

 which this unforeseen apparition produces a few im- 

 prudent birds have disappeared. within the reptile's 

 mouth, while the others fly away. In the same sly 

 and brutal manner he snaps up dogs, horses, oxen, 

 and even men who come to the river to drink. 



