256 Our Noblest Friend, The Horse 



heart-strings, and the possible remorse which fol- 

 lows the disposal of some family pet endeared to all 

 by labours patiently performed, activity displayed, 

 and enjoyment promoted. Nor is this the least 

 advantage to be gained from this method of pro- 

 cedure, since while we should care for our old 

 friend to the end, and ensure him not only comfort 

 in his age, but burial at his end, it is always incon- 

 venient and frequently nearly impossible to do so; 

 nor can such an one, in his declining years, render 

 the service which we demand, or should exact, were 

 he able to respond. Therefore, sentiment goes as 

 ever but ill hand in hand with utility, and we shall 

 do well not to allowl " Fannie " or " Charley " to 

 entwine themselves too closely in our lives and 

 hearts, but sternly treat them as but the means to 

 temporary usefulness, maintaining their health and 

 augmenting their vigour while in our charge, and 

 quickly passing them on thence to other ownerships 

 in first-class condition to continue to earn actively 

 that honourable livelihood which is their right to 

 demand and our duty tO' promote. It is perhaps a 



