SIGNS OF RAIN, 
143 
of observing them closely without coming to 
the conclusion that they perceive many 
things which are out of the reach of our 
senses. A very common instance is the 
power dogs possess of tracking animals by 
the sense of smell; and it is a well-known 
fact that they and other domestic animals 
show the greatest uneasiness before the 
coming of earthquakes. Thus, their senses 
being so much finer in some respects than 
our’s, we can easily believe that they may be 
affected by variations in the state of the 
atmosphere which are so slight as to make 
no impression upon us.” 
“ Please to tell us some signs of rain, 
grandfather,” said Sidney. 
“ What are called false suns, or sundogs, 
are almost certain signs of rain,” replied 
Mr. Winston. “ I never knew them to fail, 
even in the dryest time. The apparent 
nearness of distant objects is another, but 
not so reliable a prognostic. When you see 
the leaves of the trees turn over, so as to ex¬ 
pose their under sides, which have a grayish 
appearance, you. may usually look for a 
shower; and this is especially the case with 
the silver poplar. Some flowers, like tulips 
