HUNTING THE DEER.



THE subject of hunting is one, which has ever had a peculiar interest for the people of all countries. Under the old Roman government, it was established as a law that, as the natural right of things, which have no master belongs to the first possessor, wild beasts, birds, and fishes were to be the property of him who could take them first. Consequently all were free to hunt when and where ever they chose. But the Roman government was afterward subverted by northern barbarians, who had a stronger love for the diversion of hunting, and whose chiefs began to appropriate the right of hunting; and instead of a natural right, to make it a royal one. And thus in the Old World the right of hunting belongs to the king and those who derive it from him. In this country the natural right is still recognized, although the game is protected during certain portions of the year by very stringent laws.

Of all the wild beasts that roam through the forests of this country, and that are so eagerly sought by the hunter, the deer stands among the first. Not only is he hunted for the sport of it, but for his value. Every part of him is utilized in some way.





There are many different methods of hunting him. Our engraving represents a party of hunters "stalking" deer by night, when the deer frequent rivers or lakes, standing or wading in the water, to rid themselves of troublesome insects. The hunter watches for the deer, and by throwing a bright light upon them from a lantern or torch, dazzles their eyes, and moving carefully in a boat, can easily approach within gunshot of them. 

In this way many are easily secured. Many different species of this beautiful animal are found in different parts of the globe. The smallest species known is found in Ceylon. It is a lovely little creature, and of beautiful form. When full grown, it is only ten inches high, fourteen long, and weighs five pounds. Its throat, head, and neck, are all white; its body is gray, striped with black, and spotted at equal distances with yellow. Although very timid, it can be tamed; but when angry, it kicks and stamps violently. A certain traveler says he saw one, which had been domesticated, and was very tame. It was placed on a table at dinnertime, and ran about among the dishes nibbling the fruits. Several years ago, one of the little creatures was brought to England, but, unable to stand the climate, it soon sickened and died.




J. W. B.


Such a Beautiful creature


Too Bad For The Poor Deer