CHAP. V. 



LIONS. 



287 



the lion will generally have a try at you, though if the 

 branches are thick there is little danger, even within dis- 

 tance of its spring. In a case where a few seconds' delay 

 may save your life, it is worth while to know that any- 

 thing thrown down — a hat, coat, etc. — will first be torn 

 up with a crunch of the teeth or a blow of the paw before 

 your pursuer resumes the chase. It has, to my know- 

 ledge, saved more than one man at a pinch. 



