In the Section of the Code for 1894-5, dealing with Reading Books,
occur the words "Passages impressing on the children the duty of
gentleness and consideration for others, and that of the humane
treatment of animals may also be widely introduced."
It is in the hope of encouraging that humane treatment of animals,
which in the hands of a sympathetic teacher may so easily and naturally
be made the first step towards the "gentleness and consideration for
others," that this series has been prepared. It is hoped now that the
teaching of humanity has received official recognition, that those who
have charge of the young will recognize its importance, and will
realise that unless the cultivation of the heart runs _pari passu_ with
that of the head, the spread of education may become a curse instead of
a blessing.
The Editors are much indebted to the R.S.P.C.C. for permission to
reprint "Trusty" and "Out in the Cold."
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