PREFACE. THE present work has been compiled with the intention of supplying a want, often felt by the writer, of a book which might present to young persons, in simple and attractive form, the solemn doctrine of the justice due to animals, and the blessings which accompany the right treatment of them. The work, it is hoped, will be occasionally used in primary, secondary, and other schools, and offered as a reward to peasant boys and girls distinguished for their gentleness towards the lower creation. Such rewards are bestowed in France, Holland, and Germany, with very happy results in the interests of religion, humanity, and civilization. Go forth, little book! If thou helpest to promote the comfort and happiness of our dumb domestic companions, a few of whose habits and adventures are described in thy pages, great indeed will be the gratification of thy Author. ADVERTISEMENT TO THE SECOND EDITION. THE Compiler of the present volume cannot help recording his thanks to the friends of "OUR DUMB COMPANIONS," for the large and unexpected measure of favour with which his work has been received by the public. The sale of Two Thousand Copies in less than three weeks encourages him in the hope, that the claim of animals to kind treatment meets with all but universal recognition; and that such improvement in public opinion is part of that general advance in civilization and humanity, which is equally favourable to the development of the law of kindness and Christian love, as it respects every dealing between man and man. THE RECTORY, STOKE NEWINGTON. |