18 FIRST BOOK. 
and then their whiskers are of use to them in 
feehng the way. 
12. ''Their soft fur, too, is the best covering 
they can have, because the mud and water will 
not cling to it, as they would to stiff hairs. So 
the animal can keep clean even in the earth, and 
in the dirty places where it hides, or searches for 
food." 
THE HORSE. 
1. I see that you are very fond of the horses, 
Tom. Would you like me to tell you something 
about them?" said Mr. Hill one day. Mr. Hill 
was an old friend who was on a visit to Tom's 
father. 
2. ''Yes, if you please," said Tom, "though I 
know something about them now. I know how 
to harness them, and how to feed them." 
" Then, of course, you know what food they 
like?" 
3. " Oh, yes ! They like corn and grass." 
Very well, Tom. Now come to the old horse 
in the pasture. I dare say he will let us look at 
his teeth. I want you to see that they are just 
fitted for the kind of food you named. 
4. "In learning about the horse, you will learn 
about the mule and ass too; for they all belong 
