62 WOLF'S WILD ANIMALS. 



the ground, the feet are lifted slowly in succession, and then are placed softly upon 

 the grass as if he was feeling his way, while his bright eyes cast eager glances 

 on every side, and the pointed ears are thrown forward to catch the slightest 

 sound. Soon he sees before him, portrayed upon the side of a rock that glistens 

 in the bright light of early morning, the dancing shadows of two of the graceful 

 creatures that are playing together just beyond him. All kinds of movements are 

 depicted upon that novel mirror by the lively animals, and the face of the stone 

 seems itself in motion, as the shadowy forms pass rapidly about its surface. But 

 Reynard is altogether too knowing to take the shadow for the substance, and, 

 disregarding the show that is passing before him, he endeavours to peer around 

 the friendly bush that hides the rabbits from his view, and to ascertain their true 

 position. Soon he will see their nimble figures, as they draw closer to his vicinity, 

 then the spring will suddenly be made, and the shrill scream of the startled 

 victim will tell the story of the Fox's success ; and, as the members of the frightened 

 colony disappear in their burrows, the shadows too will flee away, and nought will 

 remain, save one dark form, rapidly disappearing in the distance, as the Fox bears 

 away his lifeless prey. 



