THE WOLF. 117 



The dog and tlie wolf seem to be natural enemies, and seldom 

 meet without immediately flying at each other. The difference 

 between the disposition of the two animals becomes then apparent, 

 for if the wolf proves the victor he devours his victim; but, should 

 the dog kill the wolf, he disdains to touch the carcase. 



The wolf on many accounts holds a prominent position among 

 wild beasts. Some interest attaches to him in aU probability 

 from the close analogy of the essential features he presents to the 

 dog ; but his habits, instincts, and ferocious char acter, cornbined 

 with the fact that he is the most formidable representative of the 

 carnivora to be found in the more temperate r^giops of the world, 

 have more to do with it. He is the theme of many a bloodr 

 curdling recital ; history, poetry, and fiction being all indebted to 

 him for many thrilling pages. 



Some of the differences in structure between the canine tribe 

 and the cfi,t family are visible at a glance. The broad head tapers 

 suddenly into a slender and pointed muzzle, a,nd the eyes have a 

 peculiar compression, owing to their obliquity. The ears are erect, 

 being straight and pointed. The limbs are larger in proportion, 

 but the bones are of a more slender character, it being evident 

 that these animals are better adapted to speed than for taking those 

 extraordinary bounds noticeable in the larger species of the cats. 

 The neck is longer and more flexible. The tongue is smooth, and 

 the claws nou'^retractile. 



Wolves have five toes on the fore feet, and four on the hind 

 ones. They usually have twelve molar teeth in the upper jaw, 

 and fourteen in the lower, which both in size and power are 

 comparatively greater than the teeth of any dog of similar pro- 

 portions. They possess great strength, especially in the muscles 

 of the neck and jaws. 



Their lank form and gaunt appearance indicate the ]:'estless 

 activity, the ferocious character, and the untamable habits that 

 are characteristic of the animals, 



Wolves are said to carefully train their cubs, for they accustom 

 them to flesh gradually, and when strong enough make them join 

 in the chase. They are also described as inuring them to suffer-| " 

 ing and pain by biting, maltreating, and dragging them about by! 



