short stubby tail, not more than six or seven inches long, always 

 bushy and never tapering' as is that of their domestic namesake. 

 Their length, including the tail, measures about three feet, while 

 they stand from twenty to twenty- four inches high and weigh from 

 eighteen to twenty-five pounds. They are by no means unattractive 

 creatures, as the effect of the markings is often very handsome 

 and they always possess the grace and ease of movement peculiar 

 to their tribe. 



Left to their own devices, they are peaceful enough and in- 

 clined to be shy and retiring at the approach of an enemy. Once 

 forced to the defensive, nevertheless, they become the most savage 

 of animals, fighting with both teeth and claws, showing no mercy 

 and never yielding until absolutely helpless. They catch their prey, 

 not by pursuit or valor, but in the stealthy manner of all cat-hunting, 

 either creeping upon it unaware, or lying concealed in wait for it. 

 They are not particular as to what their food is, which at times may 



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