50 WOLF'S WILD ANIMALS. 



They are very much in the habit of collecting in numbers as closely as 

 possible, and sleeping away a part of the day, enjoying the warmth of the sun. 

 When thus grouped, they appear wedged together, so closely are they packed, a 

 head at intervals appearing from the midst of the crowded bodies, and tails hang- 

 ing down on every side, from apparently impossible places. Very contented and 

 happy they seem at such times, as with eyes closed and hands tightly clasping each 

 other's fur, they utter at intervals low grunts of intense satisfaction, and endeavour 

 to crowd closer the already impenetrable mass. Such is the blissful condition of 

 those represented in the illustration. Evidently they highly approve of their com- 

 fortable perch, and are prepared for a lengthy nap. One old fellow, the monitor 

 of the group, has taken his position at the end of the squeezed-up rank, and, em- 

 bracing his knees, is considering the desirability of inflicting summary chastisement 

 upon the mischievous youngsters, who at a little distance so irreverently disturb 

 the slumbers of their seniors. Another, without doubt the matron of the family, 

 has risen up from behind the others, and prepares to express in dignified tones 

 her disapproval of all gambols at this serious time, when an afternoon's nap should 

 be the first consideration. Some of the more youthful members have been pilfer- 

 ing somewhere, and one is apparently greatly shocked at all unseemly behaviour 

 and shows his astonishment in his countenance. Oh yes! we know all about it, 

 you little thief, and your well-counterfeited expression of surprise has no effect on 

 us ! The prominent cheeks, standing out on each side of the head, like well-filled 

 bags, tell a tale of stealing at which no doubt he is an adept, and soon in a quiet 

 corner by himself, safe from the inquisitive investigations of his fellows, or the more 

 abrupt overhauling of the stern old ruler above him, he will discuss to his great 

 satisfaction the hidden contents of his pouches. 



Well chosen is the place they have selected for their siesta. The warm 

 rays of the sun that flood the limb with golden light, are tempered by the soft 

 breeze that sways the leafy canopy stretched over them ; while perched high above 

 their prowling enemies, they may indulge in a feeling of security, most conducive to 

 repose, and thus free from all molestation, pass peaceably the hours, in the way 

 most suitable for such a happy family. 



