80 THE COMMON DOG. 



of man. To the orders of his master he yields a 

 ready and implicit obedience. He acts upon these 

 orders with alacrity ; and, by his vigilance and cou- 

 rage, frequently secures him from the attacks of his 

 enemies. He guards, both by day and night, his 

 property; and will often risk his life in its defence. 

 He is seldom inclined to injure any person, unless 

 previously irritated or assaulted; and is almost the 

 only animal which forbears to resent bad treatment 

 from his owner. The Dog, under such usage, does 

 not even seek to desert his master ; but, in spite of 

 the injury, will still continue to follow 7 and defend 

 him. If he has committed a fault, and finds that it 

 is discovered, he crouches at his master's feet, as if 

 to implore his clemency ; but if he be not fortunate 

 enough to obtain mercy, he submits to the chastise- 

 ment, and, the moment it is over, will lick the hand 

 that punished him. On the least encouragement, 

 he recovers his accustomed gaiety, runs round, and 

 affectionately fawns upon his master. On all occa- 

 sions he is attentive to his voice; and he knows, 

 intimately, that of every person from whom he is 

 accustomed to receive favours or attention. "To 

 strangers," says M. de Buffon, "he is totally indif- 

 ferent; but to beggars, whom he immediately 

 knows by their dress, their voice, and gestures, he 

 is a decided enemy, and at all times, if possible, 

 prevents their approach. When, during the night, 

 he becomes the guard of the house, he assumes a 

 more than usual degree of boldness, and is some- 

 times 



