“I know,” said Harry, “that's a chestnut. It's because there are more of them.”
“Yes,” responded Mr. Graham, “and the naturalists have had much difficulty in separating the one from the other in consequence of the intermediate forms between them. The goat is generally believed to be descended from the paseng or ibex of Asia, and he inherits some of the qualities of his ancestors who dwell among the rugged mountains. He is marvelously sure-footed, and can go where almost any other quadruped would not dare venture.”
“I wonder if it is true,” said one of the youths, “that when two
“But it isn't exactly right,” said George, “at least not for all parts of the world. In Central Asia the flocks contain more black sheep than white ones; the Astrachan sheep is generally black and his wool is very soft and curly. The skin of the Astrachan lamb is used as a sort of fur, and very pretty cloaks, muffs, collars, coats and similar things are made of it.”
“While I was looking up the description of sheep,” said Harry, “I read something about the goat, who may be called his first cousin, when goats meet on a mountain road where it is too narrow for them to turn around or pass at the side, one will lie down and let the other go over him.”
