Chapter I: Part 1

THE ADVENTURES OF A DONKEY.

{Showing a donkey ‘cuddling’ a young donkey under her neck.}

_Poor little foal of an oppreſsed race!
I love the languid patience of thy face:
And oft with gentle hand I give thee bread,
And clap thy ragged coat and pat thy head._
]

THE
ADVENTURES
OF
A DONKEY.

BY
ARABELLA ARGUS,
_Author of “THE JUVENILE SPECTATOR_.”

LONDON:
PRINTED BY AND FOR WILLIAM DARTON, JUN.
58, HOLBORN HILL.

1815.

THE ADVENTURES OF A DONKEY.

“Poor little foal of an oppressed race!
“I love the languid patience of thy face:
“And oft with gentle hand I give thee bread,
“And clap thy ragged coat, and pat thy head.”
COLERIDGE.

_Prefatory Address._

Though the services of my species are no longer of that character which distinguished them in former ages, I presume to think the biography of an Ass, may yet, be worthy of publication. Pride of ancestry, a usual weakness amongst Bipeds, will I trust, be forgiven in creatures doomed (even in their most fortunate estate) to bear the taunts and insults of the _rational_ part of the creation. If we refer to antiquity, it must be allowed the record is every way consoling to our feelings as a class; and though the comparative happiness of any animal at distinct periods is of little moment to his present content, it cannot be denied, that there is something satisfactory in reflecting on the respectability of our progenitors. Thus I, an Ass of the Eighteenth century obtrude my history on the public, and while I avoid the arrogance of claiming particular merit on the score of pedigree, I honestly confess, there have been moments in my life, when the memory of my descent, has proved highly congenial to my feelings. Naturalists, (as I believe those learned persons are called who describe the genus and character of animals,) have done us justice as a species. Mine, as a domestic sketch will bear none of those features of authorship which embrace deep research, and elaborate disquisitions. I present for your patronage, the life and adventures of a home-bred Donkey, and trusting to the liberality of an enlightened juvenile public, remain their respectful and obedient Servant

Jemmy Donkey.

CHAP. I.

“Sincerity,” is my motto, I am therefore compelled to begin, by declaring that the early seeds of vanity were sown in my breast by the praises of a doating mother. I was scarcely ten months old, when I overheard my mama repeating to my papa, all the handsome things farmer Howel had said of me. I now recollect her voice faultered as she closed her recital, and conclude she anticipated our certain separation. For myself, I was so elated with the words, “He is a remarkably handsome Donkey,” &c. &c. that I took no account of the price set upon my head, but gamboled from morn till night, and while my parents pursued their accustomed labours, remained a stranger to the cares inseparable from servitude.

Description would fail me, were I to attempt to pourtray the attachment _our_ mothers feel for their offspring. I well remember exciting the alarm of my mama one evening.

I had pursued some Ducks into a barn and was enjoying the fright I occasioned, when her well-known voice echoed through the meadow. I fled at the summons, and to this day have not forgotten the tender chidings and affectionate caresses she bestowed upon me as her fears subsided. Farmer Howel, though a humane man, was sedulously attentive to his own interest; thus, in the absence of my parents I found myself an object of some moment to his visitors. Modesty induces me to omit the flattering comments which occasionally reached my ears. Whether this organ in our species, from its size, is more exposed to the admission of vanity, I presume not to decide, it is sufficient to say, _I_ listened with delight, and retained _all_ I heard.

Various opinions were passed upon my capacity. One thought it would be a pity, to harness me--another recommended taking me to Tunbridge, where there could be no doubt of my selling well--a third declared a private family where there were children, would be the most profitable plan.

The farmer seemed pleased with this last suggestion, and I suppose believed he knew a likely purchaser, for I was released from further scrutiny and again scampered at liberty. I ought to blush while I add, that I buried these consultations in my own bosom, and if this concealment ultimately spared my parents some unnecessary pangs, it must be confessed my _motives_ were highly reprehensible.

Ambition however had pervaded my every feeling; I had thrust my head through an aperture in some old pailings one day, and was snuffing the air in listless vacancy, when a Donkey smartly caparisoned (and on which sat a beautiful young lady) came trotting down the road. “O happy Ass,” sighed I, “Shall I ever be so blessed?” To add to my delight, a footman on horseback followed; “here” said I exultingly, “here is a triumph for us, the horse our imperious enemy, in attendance on an Ass!” Sleep fled my eyes that night--white leather bridles, stuffed saddles, and handsome young ladies haunted my imagination. I dare say I was very troublesome, for my father complained that I kicked the straw about and was remarkably restless.

All that the farmer and his friends had said recurred to my memory, and though I could not decide which proposition best pleased me, the idea of change was in itself enchanting, and I longed for the moment that was to effect this wish of my heart. Alas! it arrived too soon, though I did not immediately discern my misfortune.

My readers may have felt the inconvenience of a tight shoe, but they can have no conception of what _we_ suffer under the hands of _our_ shoemakers: suffice it to say, I was shoed according to the usage of our genus, and like other thoughtless animals, soon forgot my pain, in the novelty of these new appendages; I have since learned, that pride is in most instances attended with pain. I dare not contradict the remark, having some reason in my person for believing it true. Yet I know you will all smile at the little whims I assumed on this important epoch in my life.

In the first place, the addition to my height seemed immense, I actually lowered my head as I entered or issued from our stable; my poor mother laughed at me sometimes and at others would sigh prophetically; but my chief pleasure consisted in kicking up the dust, and making all the noise I could with my shoes. The farmer and his wife were highly amused with my freaks. I had received two or three handsful of hay from them upon different occasions, and attributing these kindnesses to my powers of entertainment, I ventured to intrude on forbidden ground, scampered into the paved court, and finding a pail of warm milk standing invitingly in my way, had nearly drank the whole when the dairy maid approached. Conceive my amazement when this virago fell upon me, and not content with the stripes she inflicted with a clothes-prop, threw a large stone after me; fortunately I escaped from her cruelty, but not without adding to my crime by kicking over the pail in my flight. I hope I am not injudicious in expressing my gratitude for that texture of skin which makes us less susceptible to pain.

I persuade myself, _rational_ animals will not take advantage of a confession of this sort, nor indeed does my present experience lead me to question their knowledge of what we _can_ bear.

But to proceed, whether the indignity I had suffered being the first of the kind, or as the spite of a female was more particularly wounding, I know not. I looked anxiously for the return of my parents, and no sooner did they arrive than I hastened to unburthen my grief. My mama listened dispassionately.

“You did wrong Jemmy,” said she, “the milk was the property of our master, and intended for the use of his family.”

“How was I to guess that?” said I. “Besides it looked so nice and tasted so sweet. And pray did not the farmer sell your milk? How many shillings have I seen paid for it? Nay I heard Mrs. Howel say her little boy’s life was saved by drinking Asses’ milk.”

“All this may be true Jemmy,” replied my mother, “but it does not lessen your fault. In the first place, nature has kindly bestowed upon us a palate suited to our stations in life; delicacy of appetite would be a grievous misfortune to animals invariably left to provide for themselves. This freedom however, by no means authorizes indiscriminate depredations on our part; happiness consists in being contented with our lot; and while the Ass can browse in the fertile meadow, and slake her thirst from the neighbouring stream, rest assured she enjoys more real comforts than thousands of her species.”

“Grass and water!” said I, tossing my head disdainfully. “Why every Donkey gets these; why my dear mamma, I saw a beautiful Ass with a smart saddle and white leather bridle, the other day, do you think he lives upon such mean fare?”

“Ah! Jemmy, Jemmy,” sighed my mother, “you are a stranger to the Donkey world,--that well-dressed beau who has excited your childish envy, would most probably claim our compassion did we know his private history. ‘All is not gold that glitters’ child, fine trappings dazzle the ignorant and inexperienced; I am afraid you will too soon be placed in a situation to judge for yourself; may honesty actuate you on all occasions; endeavour to please your employers, and recollect that docility is not only valuable in itself, but highly conducive to your happiness as an Ass.”

There must be something intoxicating in the feelings of youth; though I listened to my mama with all possible deference, and thought her sentiments wise and just, it is certain they made no lasting impression on my mind. The very next day saw me guilty of a trespass. A can of ale was placed within a hedge for the farmer’s men, then getting in the hay; my quick scent drew me thither, I cannot say the smell was fragrant, but I thought there could be no hazard in tasting it,--I did so and shuddered, took a second taste and liked it better,--again I turned to the can and drank heartily, when a voice vociferated from a distance, and in the next moment a stick was hurled at me. Less fortunate than formerly, I sustained an injury in my leg, and under the influence of pain began capering about. This agitation produced a confusion in my head, resembling as I should imagine the feelings of an intoxicated _rational_ animal: if my conjecture is right, surely this vice is every way degrading, for I remember, I became an object of ridicule to the farmer’s men, who stood laughing at my antics, while two or three Donkeys of my acquaintance actually shunned me for some days. Nor dared I complain of my broken shin least my parents should interrogate me respecting the accident which had caused it. I am afraid I shall appear a very faulty Donkey in the eyes of my readers, an anticipation that would deeply wound my sensibility, did I not firmly believe, that many frolics of the enlightened and educated biped, which excite a smile during their “acting time,” if delineated fairly would appear equally unjustifiable. In truth I shall have occasion to contrast our errors ere I close my history.

Months rolled on, during which I was doomed to hear myself reviled as a most mischievous animal, an arrant thief, &c. &c. I hung my head and looked silly at first; chance however initiated me into the art of expressing my indignation. Balaam a very sagacious old friend of my father’s, being compelled to resist the brutality of some boys one evening, I observed that his countenance acquired considerable fierceness as he exhibited his teeth and brayed loudly. Thinks I to myself, “This shall be my plan, I will no longer bear insult tamely.” Alas! the presumption of ignorance! An opportunity soon presented itself--“Here comes thieving Jemmy,” said the dairy maid of farmer Howel, calling the carter to drive me into the meadow. I felt indignant, and facing them boldly, grinned (as I thought) most formidably, braying at the same time with all my might. Instead of alarming my enemies, my efforts excited their derision, calling forth peals of laughter at my expense. If all imitators were thus humbled in their first attempts, I am persuaded mimicry would cease to be a prevalent foible amongst Asses. Observe, I do not deny the propriety, the almost necessity that a Donkey like a man, should entertain a just sense of his prerogatives; it is the folly of assuming these privileges prematurely that I condemn. Politeness may induce _some_ animals to overlook this precocity in _their_ species; with us it is quite otherwise, the natural simplicity of our characters is such, that though man should omit to wound us, our own class are vigilant in reproving the most trivial affectation in the young.

“Poor giddy thing,” said old Balaam as I retreated from the scene of my disgrace. “Come here child! So you were really so weak as to imagine you could frighten those people by your puerile braying!”

“Why,” said I poutingly, “I have seen you do the same.”

“True, but I am of an age to claim respect,” replied Balaam, “added to which, my services entitle me to some consideration. You should endeavour to conciliate esteem; let me tell you Jemmy, you will lead a sad life, if you set out with these false notions of your own consequence; you must learn to bear and forbear, and above all things avoid the folly of aping your elders.”

Though Balaam’s wisdom was proverbial in our family, there was a sternness in his manner which frightened rather than convinced his auditors; nay, I am tempted to add, that to his mistaken asperity on numberless occasions, I attribute some of my subsequent indiscretions.

“What! if we are born to labour,” would I exclaim mentally, “I see men and women return from their daily toil cheerful and happy, and may not an Ass perform his appointed task and retain his natural vivacity? When _I_ get a place, he shall see I know how to conduct myself.”

As these soliloquies occurred, I always found my thoughts reverting to the smart saddle and bridle of a certain Donkey. “And when _I_ am so dressed,” would I say, “Old Balaam shall see me, I will trot down the green lane and shew him my finery.”

Now nothing could be more like an Ass, than this resolution of mine, but I must not anticipate. I was surprised one morning, by farmer Howel’s presenting a sieve of corn for my acceptance, and hastening to avail myself of this luxurious treat, was for some minutes unconscious of the snare into which I had fallen. A rope, a common rope was passed round my neck, the sieve withdrawn, and in a few minutes I was led out of the meadow. It was in vain I brayed and called upon my mother, she was from home, and the carter my old enemy was little disposed to attend to my sorrow. I recollected my mother’s advice, “that docility was an amiable trait in a Donkey,” and endeavoured to accommodate my feelings to my situation. The journey seemed tedious to my companion, who frequently lashed me with the rope in order to quicken my pace. At length we stopped at a noble looking mansion; I was ushered into an extensive field of well-grown grass, and, released from my ignoble bondage, for a moment forgot I was far distant from my parents.

CHAP. II.

_First Impressions._

This memorable event took place in the eighteenth month of my existence: the promptness with which my removal was accomplished, left me totally ignorant of my future destiny, yet ere the evening closed I experienced an attention which bore some promise of kindness. A fat red faced woman (whom my gratitude transformed into a goddess) threw an apron full of cabbage leaves before me, I ate a hearty supper, and fatigued with my journey looked around for a shelter for the night; a building almost equal to farmer Howel’s house, had already received two or three horses, I tried the door, it was locked, nor would my prejudices or courage have led me voluntarily to expose myself to insult and contempt, could I have found access. No! it was one of those efforts suggested by despair in which reason yields to circumstances, Old Balaam’s sombre warnings glanced across my mind. “Alas!” thought I, “to conciliate esteem where no consideration is awarded appears enigmatical to me;” and my eyes were suffused with tears as I recollected the half-tiled home of my parents. “They will think of their poor Jemmy to night, would I were again in their stable though I never more tasted a cabbage leaf.” It was not easy to my donkey capacity, to reconcile the contradiction of providing a good supper for an animal, and leaving it without a shelter for the night. The neglect of my owners roused me to exertion; forcing my way through a hedge, I wandered near the house, till espying a door open I ventured in, it was a small building and by the light of the moon, I discovered it to be a brewhouse. Our olfactory nerves are very delicate; thus, though one of my senses was somewhat offended by the smell of the place, necessity compelled me to submit to the inconvenience. You may smile at the idea of a Donkey’s dream, and would perhaps call me a downright Ass if I related mine on the night in question; to avoid the imputation of weakness I desist, though I am convinced a two-legged author would mould my dream into a most interesting episode. Well, morning arrived, and with it a full sense of my situation. On first opening my eyes, I stood in profound amazement not exactly recollecting where I was: no sooner had memory recalled the incidents of the preceding day, than that sagacity which even Donkeys partially share, told me, I was not in my proper abode--to effect a retreat without discovery was desirable. I was rejoicing in my adroitness, when a gentleman in a scarlet jacket ran after me and before I could gain the field half a dozen pebbles were levelled at me.

“Leave the Donkey alone Robert,” said the fat Lady, my cabbage-leaf friend. And advancing towards me she added, “poor Jemmy, did we forget to open the shed for you last night, poor fellow I’ll take care it shan’t happen again.”

I brayed in my most melodious style hoping it would be understood as an expression of gratitude, I dont know that Mrs. Bond penetrated my meaning, but her uniform kindness leads me to believe, there _are_ persons in the world who appreciate and comprehend the feelings of a Donkey.

How often have I listened to the praises bestowed upon horses and dogs! How many records of their sagacity have reached my long ears! Alas! my vanity does not help me to one anecdote, one incident, in which our talents natural or acquired are favourably exhibited; yet in attachment to our masters and that faithfulness of memory so highly prized in the animals I quote, in these essential qualifications I _think_ we stand nearly equal. It cannot be, our rough exterior that places us beneath notice; for as far as I can judge, beauty is not the exclusive possession of any particular class of animals.

But to proceed; I had sighed for a change in my mode of life, yet content was a stranger to my bosom. The voice of my parents no longer gladdened my heart, if my food was more sumptuous, there wanted that social intercourse, that lively chit-chat to which I had been accustomed. The days seemed grievously irksome, and though Mrs. Bond, had politely shewn me my lodging apartment, it was impossible for a Donkey of my disposition to avoid some portion of ennui in a seclusion so unbroken. I began to wish for some employment, now first discovering old Balaam’s maxim to be just, “that idleness is fatiguing.” An unusual depression had seized my spirits one afternoon, when perceiving my good friend Mrs. Bond, I ran towards her.

“Ah poor fellow,” said she, “I can’t stop to talk to you now, we are all in a pucker, and _you_ will have enough to do when the pet comes.”

“What does she mean?” said I to myself. “I never heard of such an animal.”

While reflecting on the import of this speech, a travelling chaise with four horses turned into the court yard: a number of men-servants ran to and fro, and amongst others the man in the scarlet jacket, whom I now discovered to be a groom. Amused by the bustle I stood looking over a gate, when a shrill squeaking voice exclaimed, “Robert! Robert! shew me my Donkey, I say Robert I want my Donkey.”

“He’s in the field Master Frederick,” replied the groom. “I can’t go with you now Sir, if you’ll wait till I’ve done in the stable I’ll give you a ride.”

“But I wont wait, I will see him directly,” resumed the young gentleman, “leave the horses and come along with me.”

“What leave my horses Sir after such a fag! No no Master Fredy, if you can’t wait I can’t help it, only take care, you don’t worry the Donkey, he’s a proper vicious one I promise you.”

I concluded from the sketch the groom had thought proper to give respecting me, that my young master would avoid my presence; deeply wounded that the prejudice of this man should so far mislead him, I assumed a cheerfulness foreign to my feelings, and displaying my figure to the greatest advantage, endeavoured to engage the notice of Master Frederick by a thousand graceful movements; my exertions were unheeded, the young gentleman retiring at the summons of a man-servant. “We are indeed an unfortunate race,” sighed I, “traduced by tongues that know us not, yet will be the chroniclers of our doings. I clearly perceive an Assinine existence is synonymous with misery.”

These cogitations of your humble servant may with justice be traced to my early education. Balaam had impressed me with those gloomy anticipations which mar our present enjoyments. Ah! how different were the sentiments of my dear mother, but I cannot even at this distance of time speak of her without the liveliest emotion. I was regaling on some potatoe parings, and musing on my fate, when Robert introduced my young master into the field; resolved on refuting the representation of my enemy, I approached Master Frederick with the utmost deference; as I drew near he retreated, till with a terrific scream he hid himself behind Robert. What was my mortification to find _I_ who had been called a handsome Donkey, was an object of alarm to my owner! Now as you all know, looking-glasses make no part of _our_ domestic furniture, but we supply this deficiency by never drinking but from the clearest water within our reach. It is therefore unnecessary to add, that like yourselves we regard our reflected likeness with some little degree of partiality; if _we_ exceed the bounds of prudence in the indulgence, remember I am speaking of Asses, and that it would be unreasonable to expect in an Ass, more than belongs to him as an Ass. But I declare no stream in which I ever saw myself had impressed me with the belief; that my face or figure was calculated to frighten any person.

Overcome by disappointment I continued to gaze mournfully upon my master. The groom who had laughed heartily at Frederick, now coaxed me, patted my sides, and persuaded the child to mount my back.

“I wont I tell you,” exclaimed the child “he will throw me off, I know he will.”

“Let me hold you on,” replied, Robert, throwing a rope round my neck. After many assurances the little gentleman was mounted. I cannot say I felt quite easy; his weight was trifling, but this was my debut as a beast of burden, and I somehow feared it would not prove auspicious.

Two or three quiet walks across the field inspired my young Nimrod with courage.

“Make him trot Robert,” said he. I instantly fell into the most agile motion. O sad mischance; Robert missed his hold, and my rider fell to the ground! The screams of Frederick brought Mrs. Bond to his assistance. Robert declared the young gentleman was not hurt, and endeavoured to pacify him.

“I will go and tell mama you laughed at me when I tumbled off that ugly Donkey,” said Frederick, pushing the groom with all his strength.

“O! fie Master Fredy, why I thought you was more of a man, than to cry at a fall upon the grass,” said Mrs. Bond.

“Get me a whip Robert, I will beat the Donkey,” resumed Frederick.

“No, Sir, I shall do no such thing,” retorted Robert. “The Donkey carried you as well as possible, it was my fault in letting him slip from my hold.”

“Then I wish I had the whip, I would give you a good lashing, that I would.”

“Would you indeed,” laughed Robert, “I should like to try you.”

Enraged at the mirth of the groom, the young gentleman made his escape.

“Why he’s worse than ever,” said Mrs. Bond, “it is quite surprising to me, that such good people as my master and mistress are, should spoil their child so foolishly.”

“A puny snivelling little pet,” rejoined Robert, “I pity Jemmy; sure enough he’ll have a fine time of it.”

“So then I am the servant of that animal called a pet,” thought I, and I reverted to all the creatures I had seen of the same size and genus. Farmer Howel had children, but to me they appeared quite a different description of animal. Neither pouting nor fretfulness had ever fallen under my observation. And as Master Frederick seemed to possess many comforts, I concluded the word _pet_ to imply a discontented self-willed animal, and grieved to find myself the slave of such a tyrant.

It was remarkable, that Robert who had hitherto taken pleasure in teazing me, from the moment of my master’s arrival adopted a distinct line of conduct. It seems to me, that mere thoughtlessness will at times propel a species of cruelty, void of malice. A good marksman (to shew his skill) will shy a stone at us with fatal accuracy. I can assure these hurlers, we do not doubt their capability, but protest against the honour of being used as targets.

If I suffered individually at this period, I am willing to allow my situation afforded me views of life highly edifying to an inexperienced Donkey. I saw horses curried and dressed with the nicest care, and I beheld them lashed and beaten on the most trivial occasions. Though a stranger to corporeal suffering, my sympathy was powerfully awakened by these spectacles. “Ah! what shall I be in the hands of an angry master!” thought I; nor could I exactly ascertain the foibles which subjected them to this treatment. Time has enlightened me on this subject, and I now boldly declare beasts of burden are as liable to suffer from the _temper_ of their masters as their own fallibility.

The parents of my young master deserved the elogium Mrs. Bond had bestowed upon them, they were in themselves amiable, and would frequently reprove the impatience of Frederick, but alas! this spoiled boy had been too long habituated to indulgences to submit to controul. His natural timidity increased my difficulties, if kept a walking pace, I was “a stupid brute,” if I ambled gaily, “a mischievous creature.” I bore his revilings calmly for some time, yet it was grievously humiliating that _all_ my efforts should be so misconstrued; and in truth, my donkey pride was offended, that a saddle and bridle had not been provided for me. Under the impulse of this feeling, I one morning contrived to shift the green baize substitute for a saddle, and gently laid my master on his back; again Robert was my advocate, and by proposing the immediate purchase of the necessary trappings appeased the tears of Frederick.

Mrs. Fenton assenting to the expenditure, I waited the hour of equipment with all the little anxieties of pride, and perhaps some of my readers will understand my disappointment, when I declare, nothing could be more contrary to my expectations than the dress Robert purchased. A common saddle and dark leather bridle for a Donkey whose imagination had been inflated by a glimpse of the most elegant Ass in the kingdom! This disparagement was not to be borne, I looked contemptuously on the groom, and in my own mind wondered such a commission should have been left to his taste. It is impossible for an Ass to guess how bipeds are affected by the stupidity or bad taste of their dress-makers, &c. &c. I only know, I shrugged my shoulders with scorn, and would scarcely submit to be dressed. Robert conquered at last, and I was decorated in my new habiliments: what my sensations were at that time I cannot describe. In conforming to the fashions of the age, my readers enjoy a thousand advantages which a _solitary_ Donkey must not hope to experience. I believe fashion would cease to be of consequence altogether did not emulation keep it alive. Now I (who had sighed to appear with all the splendour of a domesticated Ass) received these honours at a period when my talents and general character were totally obscured; thus the mere tinsel of ornament lost its most attractive charm, the power of exciting admiration, for that Master Frederick or any of the family would descern my merits or do justice to my personal beauties was what I dared not anticipate.

It must be allowed fortune jumbled an odd variety my juvenile path, but perhaps I err, and it is rather the singularity of my taste, which tempts me to lay these memoirs before the public, than any peculiar hardship in my fate. At all events I am a truth-telling Donkey, and writing from the heart rather than the head, I promise to be as succinct in my subsequent history as in these my first impressions.

CHAP. III.

_A New Master._

Two months of incessant drudgery had completely taught me to bear the restraint of a saddle, when Master Frederick on a sudden declined my services. I thought myself happy in losing his patronage, and was looking forward to a little ease, when Mrs. Fenton inquired if I could not be made serviceable, and proposed harnessing me to a donkey cart: Robert replying in the affirmative, I was accordingly appointed to the honour of drawing my mistress about the grounds. The change was agreeable, and though somewhat above my strength, I acquitted myself to the satisfaction of Mrs. Fenton. But it was in vain I looked for the delicate white bridle, that object of my ambition. “Surely” thought I, “a lady will never bear to handle such common reins, why even the pet, complained that they stained his gloves!” My mistress however, continued to employ and commend me without thinking it necessary to alter my dress. If the humanity of Mrs. Fenton had not interfered, my whimsical young master would gladly have added to my toil in these excursions, by taking a seat by her side.

“No my dear Fred, I cannot allow you to ride with me, it would be too much for the poor Donkey;” would she say, “ask Robert to teach you to drive, and you shall take an airing before breakfast.”

Alas! this was putting new arms into the hands of an enemy. Robert undertook the office with a sullenness for which I could not then account, but during the process I gained an insight into the character of my master, which in a degree justified the repugnance of the groom.

In proportion as the feeble mind of this boy rendered him contemptible to those about him, his arrogance increased; every failure to which his pusillanimity exposed him, was revenged on those persons he considered his inferiors. Of course the _animal_ who could not express himself orally, received his portion of ill usage. If Robert was called “fool, rascal, &c. &c.” my sides felt the effects of master Frederick’s temper; fortunately the strength of this young tyrant was not that of a Hercules, or my situation had been miserable indeed. About this period a most agreeable change took place in our family, a young lady and gentlemen relatives of Mrs. Fenton made us a visit. Charles Fairfax was in his twelfth year, his sister Marianne a year younger; their open good humoured countenances and lively spirits formed a striking contrast to the peevish features of my master, but I was not so credulous as to decide on their characters from an index of this nature. No! it was their subsequent conduct which then claimed my gratitude, and enables me at this moment to speak of them with pleasure.

Nothing could exceed their astonishment when Master Frederick one morning thought fit to scold the groom, because he had locked the stable door, and he could not get my saddle exactly when he wanted it.

“You great fool you, you are always doing wrong,” said he, “get me the saddle directly; here my cousins have been waiting this hour. I know papa would be very angry if he knew you took the horses such a long airing, and I’ll tell him when we go to breakfast.”

“I am not your servant, Sir,” replied Robert, “nor I dont know who would have any thing to do with you that knew you.”

“Hold your tongue, and do as you are bid,” resumed the little tyrant.

“Pray Sir do _you_ wish to ride the Donkey this morning?” said Robert, bowing to Master Fairfax.

“Not particularly,” replied Charles.

“Then Sir, if it is no disappointment to you, I will not give Master Fredy the saddle till I have seen my master, he would not suffer his servants to be treated as they are, if he knew it, but I will tell him my mind, if I lose my place.”

“To be sure you think yourself of great consequence Mr. Bob, but I know something, and I’m determined I’ll tell, so you had better give me the saddle.”

“You get no saddle from me Sir,” retorted Robert, “but I think, when _I_ tell all I know, somebody will sing to another tune.”

Marianne Fairfax had very properly retreated from this altercation, calling her brother to look at a brood of chickens. I gladly pursued their steps, delighted to be near children whose appearance impressed me in their favour.

“I declare Marianne I never heard any this like Frederick,” said Charles, “I hope he will not expect me to take his part, the groom has treated him as he deserves.”

“O he was always a pet,” replied Marianne, “but pray look at these pretty creatures, did you ever see such a fine brood?”

Charles was admiring the chicks, when Frederick siezing my tail caused me to start, and in avoiding him I accidentally kicked one of the little flutterers. Marianne ran to the spot, and taking up the chick, examined it tenderly; I listened with much anxiety, and was delighted to hear her say, its limbs were not broken. My tranquillity was of short date, a heavy stroke on my back nearly knocked me down.

“What are you about Frederick?” said Charles, wresting a spade from the hands of my master.

“Why he deserves a good drubbing,” retorted Frederick, “he might have killed the chicken.”

“And you might have killed the Donkey, had the blow fallen on his head.”

“Well it is my own if I had Sir, and that spade is mine,” said he, endeavouring to regain the murderous weapon,--“and this field is mine, it is very odd I mayn’t do as I please in my own house.”

“I dont call any of these things yours,” said Charles, “and if they were, you would have no right to act as you were doing.”

“O to be sure you are very good,” sneered my master, “but I say the Donkey ought to be thrashed, and he shall too.”

“Not while I am here to prevent it,” continued Charles restraining the arm of Frederick; “but if you pull my hair Frederick, I shall be forced to give you a thrashing, so I warn you in time.”

Marianne interposed, and begged her brother would leave him to himself, and take a walk with her in the shrubbery. Charles marched off with the spade on his shoulder: this act in itself one of humane courage, roused the anger of my vindictive tyrant, who waiting till my friends were out of sight, attacked me again. As I have before observed, his powers did not keep pace with his intentions; I was more worried than injured by his malice, but thinking a little braying could do no harm and might bring my champion to my aid, I uttered two or three sonorous notes, and as I expected so it happened. In an instant Charles Fairfax leaped over a gate, and approaching Frederick exclaimed,

“Touch the Donkey again, and I will either give you a drubbing, or carry you to your father.”

“Do if you dare, I should like to see you carry me indeed! I dare say you think yourself a fine fellow because you have been two years at a public school, but who cares for you? not I, I assure you.”

“It would be difficult to say what you do care for except indulging your own humours,” replied Charles. “Believe me Fred, I will not interfere with these so long as they are confined to yourself, but I should be ashamed to stand by and see you ill use a dumb animal, merely because the groom has offended you.”

“That’s right,” retorted Frederick, “I’ll get Mr. Bob a good rowing;” and running off, he left my champion smiling at the vaunting cowardice of my silly master.

Though I do not profess to be a scientific Ass--nor in the least addicted to philosophical inquiry, there are certain estimates that a merely observing _animal_ will make, and by _chance_ stumble on probabilities. Thus I, a beast of burden declare, that our fatigue is increased or ameliorated by the _temper_ of those we carry (of course this remark applies only to our services à la cheval); I persuade myself this is not a Donkey chimera, but a truth that would be generally acknowledged were _we_ in the habit of submitting _our_ opinions to the public. There is something elastic in good humour, it gives a buoyancy to the frame similar to what it imparts to the countenance; while sullenness, passion, or any other deformity of the mind, by its uncertainties diminishes the zeal of the employed, and makes _that_ a task which might be made a pleasure. Charles Fairfax was more robust in appearance than my master, yet, when he did me the honour of mounting my back I was all agility, anxious to display my best paces and this without a touch from the whip.

But to return to the fracas I witnessed: I was beginning to regret that the habits of a Donkey precluded him from knowing what occurs within doors, and that in consequence I should not hear how the cousins adjusted their difference, when Mrs. Bond entered the field with some provender for your humble servant, and was instantly joined by Robert.

“I thought you’d get your warning,” said Mrs. Bond, addressing the groom, “but I find Master Fairfax has done some good for us all I hope.”

“Good! why he’s the finest fellow I ever saw: yes, little sniveller tried his worst, but master actually coloured for shame when young Fairfax spoke up; would you believe it, the spiteful monkey asked his father if he allowed the Donkey to be fed with oats? You know master is a little particular about stable expenses. I never gave the Donkey one oat since he came from the farmer’s,” said I, ‘but you gave me some for him which was just as bad,’ said young mischief; “so then I up and told, that master Frederick was always in the stables taking the oats, that I was afraid he would get a kick some day or other, and that for peace and quietness’ sake I gave him a few oats one morning and never but once. I wish you’d seen young Fairfax when I said this, you never saw such a scornful look as he gave our young one.”

“And what did mistress say?” asked Mrs. Bond. “Why she said I ought to leave the saddle where Master Fenton could find it, as it was a great disappointment to the child, when he got up easily on purpose to ride his Donkey and was prevented by my carelessness. I said he could not put the saddle on if I left it out, and if it was not well braced he might get a fall. My master said I was right, and seemed satisfied enough, but the pet thought he’d get me into a scrape yet, so he begins again with ‘Ah! Mr. Bob, with all your impudence you can’t deny that you was out two hours this morning though Papa said an hour was enough.’ Now there was no standing this from a child, so I told master that I’d borne a great deal of bad language from his son, and that I had resolved to tell him of his swearing, but if I was to be called to account by a baby I would leave my place.

“‘Let him go Papa, send him away to-day,’ said Frederick. ‘No! said master, I’m afraid you have been a very bad boy Fred.’ Mistress looked vexed and asked where I had taken the horses that morning. I told her to the farmer’s by my master’s orders. ‘Very true Robert, I had forgot that I told you to do so’ said master. ‘Well then’ said my mistress ‘only take care and leave the Donkey ready every morning by eight o’clock Robert.’ ‘Will that make you happy my love?’ said she hugging the young rascal. ‘I dont know,’ sobbed little squeaky. Master Fairfax, burst out a laughing, ‘well done Fred, that’s honest’ says he, ‘for I dont think the Donkey is a greater favourite with you than Robert.’

“‘O yes he’s very fond of his Donkey Charles,’ said mistress, ‘and will soon ride like a little man.’

“‘I hope Fred will never think of making me one of his favorites then,’ replies young Fairfax, ‘for I should be sorry to receive such proofs of his regard as he bestows on his Donkey.’

“‘I should like to know what business you have with me or my Donkey Sir?’ said Frederick, ‘I tell you it is my own and I will beat him and kick him whenever I please.’

“Master grew quite angry at this, called Frederick a ‘little savage,’ and declared he would send the Donkey to the farmer’s, for he had been worried to death by the frights and whims of his son ever since they came to the Hall.

“‘It is such an ugly vicious beast,’ said Fredy. ‘Robert said it was, he knows he did the very first night we came here.’

“So then I said, the Donkey was a very fine one, and though I had warned him not to ride him but when I was by, it was because I knew the beast wanted training like all other animals, but it was not by ill using him as Master Fredy did, that the Donkey would ever be made a good carrying one.

“‘You have said enough Robert,’ said master. ‘Farmer Howel shall have the Donkey again; no child of mine shall use any animal ill. I am afraid we have helped to spoil you Frederick, but I hope it is not too late to save you from becoming wicked.’

“I left the room, but Thomas says, young Fairfax offered Frederick his hand, and declared he would not have said a word about what passed in the field, if he had not thought his cousin unjust to me. It seems the little pet defended himself, but the other was too clever for him, and master was so pleased with what his nephew said, specially about trying to get me into disgrace for the very thing I had done to please him, that he wished over and over again he had such a boy.”

It will readily be believed I was deeply interested in this discussion, it was not so much the important figure I made in the narration, as the conviction that intellectual animals occasionally condescend to think of us and of our sufferings: and with that spirit of good fellowship which leads us to forget injuries, I augured favourably of the future conduct of my master. This was my first thought, the succeeding one told me I must no longer call Frederick Fenton my master. And as I had heard that Mr. Fenton was very decisive, when he made a resolution, new hopes stole into my bosom, that I should return to the farmer’s and again see my parents. Next morning undeceived me in this particular. Doctor Manton, a physician, calling to see Mrs. Fenton, expressed a wish to see Master and Miss Fairfax; they were in the garden, and my mistress in accompanying the doctor in search of them came in contact with me.

“Where did you get that fine Donkey,” said Mr. Manton, “I am looking out for one, can you recommend me to any person who would serve me well.”

“You shall have that” said my mistress “we want to get rid of him.”

The doctor made a few inquiries, and I heard myself formally consigned to Mr. Manton. Something like a sigh escaped my bosom, it was grievous to perceive how lightly I was estimated where I had never voluntarily offended; while the recollection of Mrs. Bond’s many kindnesses in the cabbage-leaf department, sensibly depressed my feelings. “I am again launched on the world,” thought I, “and perhaps at a greater distance from my parents, new ills may await me: custom has, in a degree, reconciled me to my present lot; shall I have fortitude to bear a change which may only prove a change in suffering?” The white bridle flitted across my mind--“ah!” thinks I, “this may be the moment in which my hopes are to be realized.”

Pardon me, my gentle readers, nor deem a Donkey a more egregious Ass, that an object so inconsequential in your eyes should to _him_ appear so attractive.

What is ambition, but an ardent desire to possess that which we believe would increase our happiness? Men seek fame and hoard gold without considering the instability of either of these possessions: yet I never heard that the disappointments of the few, diminished the ambition of the many.

Thus, whether it be a white leather bridle or the treasures of Golconda, _time_ only can elucidate our mistake; and, by unveiling the passing hour, teach us to value those which have fled for ever.

CHAP. IV.

_A Journey and its Consequences._

You will do me the justice to believe I did not quit Fenton Hall without a sigh; I am so tenacious of being included amongst the gourmands, that I am really scrupulous of declaring all I felt when the blue apron of Mrs. Bond was lost to my view.

Suffice it to say, my sensibility was painfully awakened: but alas! there is no way of describing our griefs pathetically. If I said my tears flowed plenteously, you would laugh at the idea of a Donkey’s tears; pallid cheeks do not rank amongst our personal beauties.

It is impossible to attempt the heroic style in the biography of an Ass; I must descend, and in simple language tell you, my heart was heavy, and I could not disguise it. It was some consolation to me to perceive, that Robert seemed sorry to part with me, I rubbed my nose gratefully against his sleeve as he threw the reins round my neck. The doctor had mounted his horse and taken the bridle in his hands, when he questioned Robert respecting my temper &c.

“He is as good a Donkey as can be Sir,” said Robert, “he has not had a fair chance here, but I will answer for him where he is well used.”

The doctor vouched for the humanity with which I should be regarded where I was going, and we issued forth.

This eulogium of the groom’s, deserved and attained due consideration from me. “In giving me a good character to my new master, Robert has done me all the service he could,” thought I, “yes, it must be my constant endeavour to merit the patronage of my employer:” and like half a thousand projectors, I was laying down a plan of conduct perfect in theory, though its practice proved too much for donkey philosophy.

The gentle pace of the doctor, and his encouraging expressions, beguiled a journey of five miles insomuch, that before we reached Penrose, Mrs. Manton’s home, I found my spirits greatly revived. That prejudice known to exist between the horse and Ass had subjected me more than once to a contemptuous glance from my companion. I bore this patiently, perceiving that his rudeness did not escape the notice of my master, who was obliged to use his whip in order to make Martello quicken his pace. I entreat you to understand, that I did not rejoice in the stripes Martello received. No: it was my sense of the politeness due to me as a stranger which led me to hope the Doctor’s reproof might prove salutary.

Penrose was delightfully situated, not so spacious as Fenton Hall, but an air of comfort was diffused through the grounds; the cattle seemed to enjoy the most luxuriant pasturage, while the dwelling of my master appeared a perfect picture. “Happiness must reside here,” thinks I to myself, and in the fulness of my joy I was no sooner shewn into the paddock than I rolled on the grass, as if to take possession of this charming spot of earth. Imagine my confusion on discovering Martello and an old mare eyeing me with disdain from a neighbouring enclosure; recovering my feet, I returned their stare. I had heard Mrs. Bond say, “A cat might look at a king: and surely an Ass might look at a horse!” Whether my countenance has any thing very comic in it, or that my juvenile effrontery moved their risibility I know not, they snorted loudly, threw back their manes and galloped away.

While yet I was reflecting on the arrogance of my neighbours, the Doctor and his son entered the paddock.

“If I thought we could get a side saddle in the village,” said Mr. Manton, “I should like to have the Donkey completely caparisoned before Caroline sees him.”

“Shall I go to Wilcox? perhaps he has one,” replied Mr. George Manton--my master acquiesced, and the gay gentleman departed on his errand.

What a palpitation I experienced during his absence! it was evident I was the appointed servant of a lady, and a white leather bridle seemed the natural consequence of such a distinction.

I paced the field, peeped over the gate, and regarded every approaching passenger with fixed attention. “Hope was deferred;” George Manton returned alone--my chagrin would have been obvious, did Donkey physiognomy make any figure in the studies of the biped. Be that as it may, my bosom admitted the good within my reach; the young gentleman patted me on the head as he passed, and as I followed him plucked some grass with which he condescended to feed me; delighted with these attentions I continued to accompany him. The Doctor joined us; when I had the pleasure of hearing that Wilcox would bring a saddle he thought likely to suit in the course of an hour. I had fancied myself rather fatigued from my journey, but this intelligence so entirely altered my feeling I seemed equal to any effort and only longed for the arrival of the sadler.

That blissful moment came--the saddle fitted, and oh! enchanting sight! the “white leather bridle” at length graced my figure. Transported with myself, I would fain have sought some liquid stream in which I might catch a glimpse of my person; the thing was impracticable at this juncture; and though the sun shone, and occasionally traced my shadow accurately, there was nothing to excite one’s vanity in this sort of reflection. It is true, I was mindful of my carriage, wore my ears erect, and was in that happy temper of mind, which makes every thing agreeable. I yet knew it was possible to increase my satisfaction, and I had every disposition to make the attempt. Mr. George Manton attended my toilet, and was pleased to express himself much to my liking.