Apes play many odd tricks, and try to act like men, for they are very
fond of imitating every thing they see. They are also very
mischievous, and sometimes spiteful, so they should be either tied up
in a safe place or well watched.
Apes are a species of monkeys. They live in a country called Africa,
where there are a great many forests, and where the trees are much
larger than any in the settled parts of America. The apes can climb to
the top of the very tallest trees, and cling to the branches in
safety. They are very quick in their motions, and can fling themselves
from tree to tree with great readiness, holding on with their long
arms and legs. In their native woods, they are very wild; they go on
all fours; and sometimes visit the Negroes' huts and fight hard
battles with the inhabitants, throwing sticks and branches with great
dexterity. They are usually of a dull brown color, but some are black,
and others grey. They should be fed upon bread soaked in water, and
any kind of fruit that may be convenient to give them; they are very
fond of nuts and biscuit, both of which may be given them in
moderation.
[Illustration: BEAR.]