112 A DESCRIPTION OF 
lump, but it is occasioned by the bones that forms the 
withers being continued to a greater length than in most 
other animals. The Buffalo is a native of most parts of 
the torrid zone, and almost of all warm climates; always 
dwelling in moist and marshy places, where he delights 
to roll in the mire. In a wild state the Buffalo is exceed- 
ingly fierce ; but in some of the tropical countries he is 
perfectly domestic, and most useful for many purposes, 
being an animal of patience and great strength. When 
employed in the labours of agriculture, he has a brass ring 
put through his nose, by which means he is led at pleasure. 
Buffaloes are common in the Pontine Marshes near Rome, 
where they were brought from India in the sixth century. 
In India they constitute the riches and food of the poor, 
who employ them in their fields, and make butter and 
cheese from their milk. They are much valued for their 
hides; of which, in several countries, and especially in 
England, military belts, boots, and other implements of 
war are made. There are various species of Buffaloes, of 
which the Cape Buffalo, from South Africa, is the best 
known, and most valuable. 
Buffaloes, in their native country, fight so fiercely with 
each other, that African travellers have remarked that 
they seldom are found without torn ears, and scars of 
various kinds on the neck and body. 
