nly four, which was
the value of a sheep. If any doubt arose as to the genuineness of the
breed, or his having been _pastorally_ trained, then the owner and a
neighbour were to make oath that he went with the flocks or herds in
the morning, and drove them, with the stragglers, home in the
evening."

I delight in seeing a shepherd's dog in full activity, anxious to
obey the directions of his master. He runs with his utmost speed,
encompassing a large space of open country in a short time, and brings
those sheep that are wanted to the feet of his master. Indeed the
natural talents and sagacity of this dog are so great, partly by being
the constant companion of his master, and partly by education, that he
may almost be considered a rational being. Mr. Smellie says, "that he
reigns at the head of his flock, and that his _language_, whether
expressive of blandishment or of command, is better heard and better
understood than the voice of his master. Safety, order, and discipline
are the effects of his vigilance and activity. Sheep and cattle are
his subjects. These he conducts and protects with prudence and
bravery, and never employs force against them, except for the
preservation of peace and good order. He not only understands the
language of his master, but, when too distant to be heard, he knows
how to act by signals made with the hand." How well Delille describes
this faithful animal!--

"Aimable autant qu'utile,
Superbe et caressant, courageux et docile,
Forme pour le conduire et pour le proteger.
Du troupeau qu'il gouverne il est le vrai berger;
Le Ciel l'a fait pour nous; et dans leur cours rustique,
Il fut des rois pasteurs le premier domestique."

Mr. Charles Darwin, in his interesting travels in South America,
informs us, that when riding it is a common thing to meet a large
flock of sheep, guarded by one or two dogs, at the distance of some
miles from any house or man. He often wondered how so firm a
friendship had been established, till he found that the method of
education consisted in separating the puppy, while very young, from
the mother, and in accustoming it to its future companions. In order
to do this, a ewe is held three or four times a-day for the little
thing to suck, and a nest of wool is made for it in the sheep-pen. At
no time is it allowed to associate with other dogs, or with the
children of the family. From this education, it has no wish to leave
the fl