RUMINANTIA. 199 



The incisor teeth are wanting in the upper jaw, 

 a hard pad receiving the pressure of the lower inci- 

 sors. The canines are also generally absent ; but 

 some genera have them even projecting into tusks. 

 The feet terminate in two hoofs, which face each 

 other with a flat surface, as if a single round hoof 

 had been cleft in two. Behind these there are oc- 

 casionally two other toes, very small, however, and 

 unused. 



On many accounts this Order is the most sub- 

 servient to man's wants. All the species afford in 

 their flesh a most wholesome and agreeable food; 

 their milk is abundant and palatable ; their hides, 

 horns, tallow, wool, &c., are largely used in manu- 

 factures, and many are strong and patient beasts of 

 burden and draught. 



Their disposition is peaceable and mild, which 

 is correctly indicated by the gentle meekness of the 

 countenance ; in some species the sweet expression 

 of the face, and the large soft melting eye, are pecu- 

 liarly lovely and engaging. 



Some of the genera possess permanent horns; in 

 others they are shed and renewed annually; while 

 in others they are entirely wanting. It is remark- 

 able that in these last the canine teeth are found. 

 The horns are often absent in the females when 

 present in the males. 



