94 
NATURAL HISTORY. 
frequently be corrected to keep them in proper sub- 
jection. 
251. The negroes consider the monkeys as an 
absolute pest ; for they do great damage in the corn- 
fields, and to the sugar-canes and rice. When plun- 
dering, they place a sentinel to give notice of the 
appearance of an enemy ; upon which they drop all 
but what they can carry in their left hand, and scam- 
per away upon the three legs which they have left. 
252. They are very fond of oysters, and the mo- 
ment these cunning little animals perceive the shells 
of the oyster extended, they instantly slip a stone 
between them, to prevent them from being closed, 
and take the fish out with their hand. They some- 
times annoy travellers in the woods by throwing dirt 
and clubs at them. 
253. It is said that these animals are masters of 
the forest where they reside. Neither the lion nor 
the tiger venture to dispute the dominion ; and the 
serpent i s the only animal that ventures to oppose 
this mischievous race. The larger snakes wind up 
the trees where the Monkeys reside, and, if they hap- 
pen to find them asleep, swallow them whole. 
254. Monkeys are noted for their mischievous- 
ness, and for the performance of many amusing 
tricks. They are very easily taught to imitate man 
in riding, dancing, &c. ; but their performances of 
this kind are too well known to be described here. 
Why do the negroes consider them a pest ? How do they con- 
trive to eat oysters 1 What is the only animal that attacks the 
Monkey with success ? What are Monkeys noted for 1 
