the enemy of mankind.

THE HIPPOPOTAMUS HIDE.

The hide of the beast is of remarkable strength and durability, and is
impervious to water; indeed, its toughness is, if possible, increased by
immersion. It is used for a variety of purposes, forming a covering for
our vessels, the want of which nothing could supply in our tempestuous
and rocky seas. It serves most effectually to insulate and protect our
electric telegraphs both by land and sea. It resists the most violent
usage, and no force, without the application of fire, can break it, for
it is so tough, even in an unprepared state, that it can only be severed
or penetrated by the application of fire and red-hot penetrating-irons.

The nearest approach to the hide of the hippopotamus is that of the
rhinoceros; but this is not so tough or so durable, and it is inferior
in other qualities.

The value of the hippopotamus is incalculable. Whilst alive, we can
extract from him a powerful electricity. When dead, besides the
innumerable purposes to which the hide is applied, his bones, marrow,
oil, fat, and, indeed, every part of the carcase, are of great value.

Some portions of the ugly beast are made subservient to the beautiful,
for they are used in the arts to give additional brilliancy to colours.

The bones, which are susceptible of a beautiful polish like ivory, and
are transparent, are used for articles of elegant furniture and
ornaments of varied beauty.

At some distance from Montalluyah is a large tract of country, called
"Hippopotamus Land," where there is an abundance of everything that the
beasts like or need, such as sand, moss, nut-trees, and a peculiar
plant, which is their favourite food.

Numerous herds are kept on this land, and also in enclosures, as deer
are preserved in your parks. In charge of them are numerous herdsmen or
keepers, who may be compared to so many shepherds looking after the
sheep, though the animals they tend are far more valuable.

From habit, the keepers understand all the ways and movements of their
flock.

With a view to startle the animals as little as possible, the keepers
are clothed in a dress made of hippopotamus-skin, the outside of which
is preserved in its natural state, and it is so arranged that the men
may appear like familiar figures to the mothers and the young, and not
excite their fear.

It is known in Montalluyah that wild beasts often attack man from fear,
lest he should do them harm.

The skin