252 
JOURNAL OF MAMMALOGY 
Any cruelty or acts of negligence in the care of animals should be condemned. 
But H is folly, because of isolated cases in ill-managed menageries, to condemn 
all zoological collections; to advocate depriving the children of their joy, adults 
of their recreation and pleasure, and the scientists and artists of the opportunity 
for study. If the writers in the Humane Review were more familiar with actual 
conditions in our best up-to-date zoological gardens, they probably would not 
make such sweeping statements. 
An official from the local Humane Society once visited the zoological park 
in Washington to investigate an alleged case of cruelty to a bear. After exam- 
ining into the case he admitted that the charges were wholly false. When he 
returned to his carriage, however, an animal-loving park employee directed his 
attention to the extreme type of overcheck he was using. On his next visit to 
the park, this agent sheepishly admitted on inquiry that he had removed this 
check just before entering the grounds. He knew it was wrong, was ashamed 
again to be seen with it in the park, yet persisted in its use. But we do not 
sweepingly condemn all humane societies because of this isolated case of cruelty 
to his horse by one of their officials. In the main, they have our genuine sym- 
pathy and hearty support. 
N. H. 
