PLATE LVII. 



of Surgeons, London. This skull appeared to be of the same spe- 

 cies, allowing only for the progressive transitions in its form, which 

 would take place as the animal should increase in size and age. We 

 are now persuaded it is of the same species, and may serve as a fur- 

 ther evidence that in the adult state the Rufous Orang-Outang is an 

 animal of commanding stature. The skeleton of the Pongo in the 

 Museum of Paris, and which from every indication we are inclined 

 to admit to be of the same species, when placed by the side of 

 a man of rather low stature, appeared very little inferior either in 

 height or dimensions. 



The capture of the Orang-Outang is a circumstance of rare 

 occurrence. If they exist in any considerable numbers, and it is 

 believed that they are numerous, they reside together in society, and 

 their haunts are the depths of the most secluded forests, among rocks 

 and mountains the most difficult of access. They are also represented 

 to be so intelligent and vigilant in avoiding every kind of snare, 

 and so powerfully vigorous in their defence, when in danger or likely 

 to be overcome, that they can never be taken unless when very young. 

 The adult Orang Outang, with a stick or branch of a tree in its 

 hands, defends itself till it is killed, or scaling the rocks hurls stones 

 down upon its agressors, never yielding to any force but in death. 

 In close attacks, when disarmed, it must be no less formidable, 

 for then, opposing its antagonist, with main strength and casting it to 

 the earth, it seizes upon him with its teeth, and while holding him 

 firmly down at arms length, can with perfect ease and safety tear him 

 to pieces. In such a contest an unarmed man must be subdued by 

 the Orang-Outang. The Rufous Orang-Outang, deducing our 

 conclusions from the Pongo before-mentioned, and which from 



