HISTORY OF MAURITIUS. 
71 
Some time ago two very fine wild asses, male and female, of the size of a mule, 
were brought from the Cape. They were streaked on the shoulder like the zebra 
of the Cape, though there is a considerable difference between them. These ani¬ 
mals are of a nature that cannot be tamed. 
Cats have degenerated here; the greater part of them are thin and emaciated, 
nor do the rats discover any very great apprehension of them. Dogs are much 
more effectual in destroying these noxious animals; but in the course of time they 
lose their hair and their scent. It is said, that they are never known to go mad in 
this island. 
