"The sheep, though in most countries under the protection and control of
man, is not that stupid and contemptible animal that has been
represented. Amidst those numerous flocks which range without control on
extensive mountains, where they seldom depend upon the aid of man, it
will be found to assume very different character. In those situations, a
ram or a wether will boldly attack a single dog, and often come off
victorious; but when the danger is more alarming, they have recourse to
the collected strength of the whole flock. On such occasions, they draw
up into a compact body, placing the young and the females in the centre,
while the males take the foremost ranks; keeping close by each other.
Thus an armed front is presented to all quarters, and cannot be easily
attacked, without danger or destruction to the assailant. In this manner
they wait with firmness the approach of the enemy; nor does their
courage fail them in the moment of attack; for when the aggressor
advances to within a few yards of the line, the rams dart upon him with
such impetuosity, as to lay him dead at their feet, unless he save
himself by flight. Against the attack of a single dog, when in this
situation, they are perfectly secure."