LETTER XXIV. 



To the same. 



SELBORNE, Aug. 15/4 1775. 



EAR SIR, There is a wonderful spirit of sociality 

 in the brute creation, independent of sexual attach- 

 ment : the congregating of gregarious birds in the 

 winter is a remarkable instance. 



Many horses, though quiet with company, will 

 not stay one minute in a field by themselves : the 

 strongest fences cannot restrain them. My neigh- 

 bour's horse will not only not stay by himself abroad, but he will 

 not bear to be left alone in a strange stable without discovering the 

 utmost impatience and endeavouring to break the rack and manger 

 with his fore feet. He has been known to leap out at a stable- 

 window, through which dung was thrown, after company ; and yet 

 in other respects is remarkably quiet. Oxen and cows will not 

 fatten by themselves ; but will neglect the finest pasture that is not 



