INDIVIDUALITY. 277 



1. Members of the same family, as of the same litter of 

 puppies or kittens ; or 



2. Of the same breed or race. 



In the first place, just as in man, there are individuals 

 that are to be considered 



1. Geniuses, gifted with conspicuous talent for song or 

 with other accomplishments ; or 



2. Conspicuously the reverse distinguished for their 

 stupidity and their inability to learn, to profit by experience, 

 to take care of themselves ; while the majority are 



3. Mediocrities distinguished in no way, but quite able 

 to take their own part in the struggle for existence. 



Individual linnets excel* in song (Bechstein). Particular 

 dogs become 'learned' as performers on the stage, as co- 

 operators with man in his various ' exhibitions,' or in his 

 crimes. Certain horses distinguish themselves in a similar 

 way in the circus, as do also special elephants, pigs, and 

 many other animals that manifest a genius or talent for this 

 or that kind of feat, involving exceptional, high and cultivated 

 intelligence. Such animals are quick, equally in perception 

 and action, susceptible in a high degree of training by man. 

 Marked cleverness on the one hand, and stupidity on the 

 other, have been noted in individuals, even of the same hive 

 among bees, and among hares (Buckland). Of humble bees 

 some are builders, simply useful; while others are artists, 

 gifted with the faculty of ornamentation (Figuier). Of bull- 

 finches taught to pipe, only a few distinguish themselves 

 (Stanley). Of horses selected for circus-training only a few 

 possess the necessary mental ability. 



The general phenomena of individuality are most familiar 

 as they are most easily studied in the dog. They are 

 well illustrated frequently in the dogs belonging to the same 

 master, exposed, therefore, to the same circumstances of life 

 and treatment. Wood tells us of one that was ' a perfect 

 aristocrat. Nothing would induce him to consort with vulgar 

 people, to enter a kitchen, or descend the area stairs. He 

 perfectly understood the importance attached to a large 

 house and handsome furniture.' He was ' perfectly miserable' 

 in shabby lodgings, while travelling in summer. He per- 



