Among the strange friendships existing between animals of different
natures, I must mention one formed between a terrier and a bantam.
The little dog was suffering so severely from the distemper, that it was
necessary to confine her to her kennel, which had open bars in front of
it. A bantam-cock which lived in the yard, walking up and down,
observed the poor little animal, and gazed at her with looks of deep
compassion. At last he managed to squeeze himself through the bars.
The terrier evidently understood his feelings, and from that day forward
the bantam took up his abode in the dog's prison--like a brave
physician, fearless of catching the complaint of his patient--and seldom
left it, except to pick up his daily food. When he did so, the dog
became uneasy, whining till her friend returned.
The terrier became worse, and the bantam redoubled his attentions, and,
for the purpose of warming the dog, took his place between her
fore-legs; and then the poor little invalid settled down on the bird,
apparently to enjoy the warmth afforded by his feathers. Thus, day
after day was passed in the closest bonds of affection, till the terrier
died of the disease from which she had been suffering. The bantam
appeared inconsolable at the loss of his friend, and it was some time
before he recovered his usual spirits.
Imitate that little bantam. You will find very many human beings, in
lieu of sick terriers, to nurse. As willingly as the bird gave up
pleasant amusements, so rouse yourself from sloth for their sakes.