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HISTORY OF QUADRUPEDS. 



THE MASTIFF. 

 (Cauis Molossus, Linn. Lc I)ogiic 9 BufF.) 



Is much larger and stronger than the Bull-Dog; 

 its ears are more pendulous; its lips are large and 

 loose; its aspect is sullen and grave, and its bark 

 loud and terrific. He seems every way formed for 

 the important trust of guarding and securing the 

 valuable property committed to his care. Houses, 

 gardens, yards, &c., are safe from depredations 

 whilst in his custody. Confined during the day, as 

 soon as the gates are locked, he is left to range 

 at full liberty: he then goes round the premises, 

 examines every part of them, and by loud bark- 

 ings gives notice that he is ready to defend his 

 charge. 



Dr. Caius, in his curious treatise on British Dogs, 

 tells us, that three of these animals were reckoned 

 a match for a Bear, and four for a Lion. 



