5 72 FRACTURE OF THE METATARSAL BONES. 
performed in proper time, would have restored the poor 
animal to its former usefulness; but even this would not 
have been necessary had proper measures been adopted 
earlier. 
One other instance of this nature, and I have done. A 
short time since, when going into the country, I met a small 
farmer driving a poor unfortunate cow, suffering from chronic 
inversion of the uterus, which organ was pendulous and be¬ 
smeared with blood and filth. The edges of the vagina were 
torn and lacerated by the “packing needle” of the farrier, 
and in a state of suppuration, the whole presenting a dis¬ 
gusting spectacle. A bar of iron was stuck through the skin 
of the back, underneath which was twisted a small cord or 
rope. I inquired, in as kind a manner as I could, what was 
the matter with the cow (he had driven the poor animal 
nearly three miles in this wretched state). In reply, I re¬ 
ceived nothing but abuse, being told that his farrier had done 
it, and all that had been done was by his farrier’s orders. Of 
course I told him that I should report him to the police if I 
heard of the poor brute being in that state on my return. 
He informed me that the bar of iron was stuck through 
her back to prevent “ her heaving/’ 
Oh! when will science step forth, joined with her sister 
humanity, and stop the progress of cruelty, not only in 
another nation, but at home and at our own doors? 
I understand that circulars are being sent through the 
country from the “ Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to 
Animals,” to gentlemen in various parts, inquiring if vivi¬ 
section is practised in their neighbourhoods. I would that 
this noble society wield its power still more, and send to 
every veterinary surgeon throughout the length and breadth 
of the land a printed circular periodically, inquiring if any 
cases of crueltv have come under his notice. This, I have no 
doubt, would tend to prevent the wanton infliction of cruelty 
which is too often, alas ! practised, and give the charlatan time 
to think that 
“ He who made him, made the brute ; 
He who gave him speech and reason, formed him mute.” 
Silently he suffers, but God’s watchful eye hears his moan 
and marks man’s cruelty. 
