OLIGOCENE PERIOD 
Tusked Pig-like brutes are roaming in the bogs, 
And bigger framed than were the Eocene hogs. 
Squirrels, as those about Europa living, 
Are faring well, and weasels too are thriving. 250 
Whilst Tapirs now stand out distinct evolved, 
With many ancient partnerships dissolved. 
Rhinoceroses too are coming to the fore, 
Though hornless brutes, as in the days of yore. 
Unlike the breeds that will sustain the line 255 
In later times, some not as yet confine 
Their haunts to land ; but oft in lake and stream 
They wade and splash, and like " sea-horses " swim. 
But not for food, nor yet to bathe and freak, 
Do they, at times, and quick, the waters seek. 260 
But thither rush, with all the speed of fright, 
As they of carnive brutes, get scent or sight. 
See here a tiger, " sabre-toothed," has slain 
Some Horse-like beast, unwary on the plain. 
Scared at the sight, does Metamynodon, 265 
In hottest haste, to water quarters run. 
And who is this whose end has proved to be 
To victim fall ere time was his to flee ? 
To Metamynodon is he close allied, 
Though that scared brute ne'er thought to take his side. 270 
For different though they seem, yet in the past 
One parent stock had held the two types fast. 
