THE STORY OF THE CAVY. 
4G3 
a corruption of Guiana-pig. From their pretty appearance and ways, as well as 
the ease with which they are kept and the rapidity with which they multiply, 
guinea-pigs have always been favorite pets with children; although it must 
be confessed that from their stupidity and want of affection they cannot be 
regarded as very interesting creatures. When, however, a number of them 
are kept together, they certainly form a pretty sight; and the manner in which 
they follow one another round and round their place of confinement in 
unbroken order is very remarkable. In some respects they resemble rabbits in 
PATAGONIAN CAVIES. 
their habits, while in other they are more like mice. Their pace is by no means 
swift and consists partly of a series of short springs; while the peculiar man¬ 
ner in which the body is elongated when creeping is familiar to' all. Their 
food consists of roots, corn and various vegetables ; and it is essential to the 
well-being of these animals that the place where they are kept should be dry 
and warm. If supplied with abundance of fresh vegetables, guinea-pigs do’ not 
require water; and when they do' drink they take but little, and this with a 
lapping action. When pleased, guinea-pigs utter a soft murmuring cry; when 
