Grandpapa. They are gentle, timid creatures, and require the care of man more than almost any other animal; as they have neither strength to defend themselves when attacked by their enemies, nor swiftness to run from danger.
Arthur. And they pay us for the care we take of them, by letting us have their wool?
Grandpapa. Indeed they do, Arthur; but not by their wool alone, for they are useful in more ways than one. Mutton, which you know is the flesh of the sheep, is one of the most wholesome meats we have; some parts of the fat are melted down to make tallow. The skin is sometimes made into parchment, and sometimes into leather, for gloves, shoes, and other things: and parts of the guts are twisted into strings for musical instruments.
Charles. What enemies have sheep, grandpapa? You have said they can’t defend themselves against their enemies.
Grandpapa. Wherever there are wild beasts, Charles, they have many enemies, as they all prey upon the sheep. Eagles will attack young lambs; so will foxes; and even dogs, if they are fierce, and not properly trained.
Arthur. But I have often seen a dog along with a flock of sheep.
Grandpapa. Yes; the breed that is called the shepherd’s dog is very useful in managing them. They seldom bite, but will fetch those back that have gone astray; and by barking at them alone, guide the whole flock much more easily than a man can do. When they have done their business, you may see them come back to the shepherd, and follow him as quietly as possible.
In the evening a supper was provided to refresh the shearers after their hard day’s work, consisting of legs of mutton, and plum-puddings, with plenty of good ale. All was jollity and mirth. During the day a constant buz of many voices might have been heard even at some distance from the barn; but the business they were engaged in did not allow time for much talk. At night, on the contrary, they had nothing to do but to divert themselves, and every tongue was heard. They told merry stories without end, sang songs, and drank to the health of their kind master. Mr. Mansfield himself staid with them for some time, encouraging them to be cheerful, and walked about to see that every body was helped. At length, he left the party, followed by his grand-children, who immediately retired to rest, highly satisfied with the pleasures of the day.