His form is that
of a hog; his eyes are small and lively; his ears are long, broad and
pendulous. He has two large tusks, which form the ivory of commerce, and a
trunk, or proboscis, at the end of the nose, which he uses to take his
food with, and for attack or defense. His color is a dark ash-brown.
2. Elephants often assemble in large troops; and, as they march in search
of food, the forests seem to tremble under them. They eat the branches of
trees, together with roots, herbs, leaves, grain, and fruit, but will not
touch fish nor flesh. In a state of nature, they are peaceable, mild, and
brave; exerting their power only for their own protection or in defense of
their own species.
3. Elephants are found both in Asia and Africa, but they are of different
species, the Asiatic elephant having five toes, and the African, three.
These animals are caught by stratagem, and, when tamed, they are the most
gentle, obedient, and patient, as well as the most docile and sagacious of
all quadrupeds. They are used to carry burdens, and for traveling. Their
attachment to their masters is remarkable; and they seem to live but to
serve and obey them.
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