156 



NOTES ON THE DOG TRIBE. 



repudiating refined classification; which last I 

 willingly leave to those learned naturalists, whose 

 unwearied researches, and consummate knowledge 

 will enable them to decide, why a sparrow hops, 

 and why a wagtail walks. 



I merely intend to touch lightly upon the 

 virtues and vices of dogs in general ; and to look 

 at them, in their state of nature on one hand, 

 whilst, on the other, I consider them as obedient 

 slaves under the iron rule of man ; — but, in both 

 positions, I absolutely deny to all dogs, the faculty 

 of reasoning. Eeason is due to man alone. Yes, 

 man alone exerts it, and he alone is entitled to it. 

 It is indeed, his just prerogative, instilled into him 

 by the hand of Omnipotence at the time of his 

 creation in Paradise ; and the exercise of it, con- 

 stitutes him by pre-eminence, the Lord of this our 

 magnificent planet. It is the exercise of reason 

 which elevates him above all created beings ; and 

 it is the want of it, that places every other animal 

 infinitely below him. I prove it as follows. 



Take a dog for example. Teach him everything 

 that you wish him to learn, and gain his affection 

 by the most unbounded kindness on your part ; 

 so that, the animal will make every attempt to 

 be your constant companion — and in case of attack, 

 will defend you to the utmost of his power. Now, 



