PRAIRIE-WOLVES ATTACKING A BUFFALO. 43 
en recalled pleasant memories, and their services have sev- 
eral times recovered a wounded deer. In a few minutes 
the apparent ringleader of the quartette got up and shook 
himself. This was the signal for the others to get upon 
their pins. Prairie-wolf number one walked quietly toward 
the bull, occasionally stopping (after the manner of dogs to 
pluck grass); then, with a sudden spring, made a feint at 
the persecuted buffalo’s head. The buffalo, in his turn, low- 
ered his head, and advanced a few steps to meet him; but 
this was unnecessary. Now the rest of the fraternity rush- 
ed up. Another took the post of teaser, while our friend 
number one dropped in the rear; and when a second feint 
at the head was made by his comrade, number one, watching 
his chance, left a deep scar over the bull’s hock. Again 
and again this game was played, the same wolf always re- 
taining his rear position. Is not the instinct of animals 
most similar to the reason of man? Here each wolf had 
his allotted work, doubtless that which was best suited for 
his capacity. The rear assault was the most dangerous; 
for a kick well directed would unquestionably have caused 
instant death to the adventurous assailant; but the most 
experienced and expert had selected the post of danger and 
honor. The flashing eyes and foaming month of the bull 
told plainly the result; so I stepped from my concealment. 
However, all were so oceupied that until I awakened the 
echoes with a loud “ war-whoop” I was unseen ; but man’s 
voice always has its effect in cases of this kind. The ver- 
min, with startled stare, plainly asking what the deuce right 
T had to interfere, sulkily trotted off as I advanced; while 
the persecuted, in return for my kindness, lowered his head, 
and pushed rapidly for me, compelling me to seek safety in 
flight. Such conduct in the buffalo was scarcely commend- 
able, and very unusual. I accounted for it by the harass- 
ing his temper had suffered, as well as his feeling how in- 
