HISTORY OF QUADRUPEDS. 45 



or the tame Ox, the Bonasus or the Urus, the 

 Bison or the Zebu, by whatever name they are 

 distinguished, or however variously classed by 

 naturalists, in reality they are the same ; and, 

 though diversified in their appearance and pro- 

 perties, are descendants of one common stock; of 

 which the most unequivocal proof is, that they all 

 mix and breed with each other. 



The Oxen of India are of different sizes, and are 

 made use of in travelling, as substitutes for Horses. 

 Instead of a bit, a small cord is passed through the 

 cartilage of the nostrils, which is tied to a larger 

 cord, and serves as a bridle. They are saddled 

 like Horses ; and, when pushed, move very briskly. 

 They are likewise used in drawing chariots and 

 carts. For the former purpose, white Oxen are in 

 great esteem, and much admired. They will per- 

 form journies of sixty days, at the rate of from 

 twelve to fifteen leagues a day; and their travelling 

 pace is generally a trot. 



In Persia, there are many Oxen entirely white, 

 with small blunt horns, and humps on their backs. 

 They are very strong, and carry heavy burdens. 

 When about to be loaded, they drop down on their 

 knees like the Camel, and rise when their burdens 

 are properly fastened. 



