652 



THE GEMS-BOK. 



hunter, and he who secures a specimen of an old male Sable Antelope may congratu- 

 late himself on possessing one' of the noblest trophies of which a sportsman can boast. 



\Ve now arrive at some remarkably handsome animals, which are notable, not only 

 for their dimensions, but for the size and beauty of their horns. The GEMS-BOK, or 

 KOOKAAM, is a large and powerful member of the Antelope tribe, equalling the domestic 

 ass in size, and measuring about three feet ten inches at the shoulder. The peculiar 



&*#V/a 

 SABLB ANTELOPE. JBgocerus alger. 



manner in which the hide is decorated with boldly contrasted tints, gives it a very 

 peculiar aspect. The general hue is gray, but along the back, upon the hinder quarters, 

 and along the flanks, the color is deep black. A black streak also crosses the face, and 

 passing under the chjn, gives it the appearance of wearing harness. It has a short, 

 erect mane, and long, sweeping, black tail, and its heavy horns are nearly straight from 

 base to tip. 



The long and sharply-pointed horns with which its head is armed, are terrible 

 weapons of offence, and can be wielded with marvellous skill. Striking right and left 



