This animal possesses many of the elements of the Collie, but is employed for far different purposes; in fact it is very seldom the companion of persons other than those of doubtful respectability. It is a cross between the Greyhound and Sheep-Dog, and is supposed to be most valuable when the parents are the rough Scotch Greyhound and the pure-bred Colley.

The Lurcher.

It is certainly to be regretted that this dog should bear such a bad reputation, as it is in reality a very handsome animal, combining the best attributes of both parents, and being equally eminent in speed, scent, and general intelligence. As, however, it is usually the companion of poachers and other disreputable characters, the gamekeepers exercise a wholesome hatred and dislike towards it, and will shoot it without the slightest remorse at the earliest opportunity. For such conduct there is at least some pretext, as the creature is so admirably adapted for the pursuit and capture of game, and because one single poacher is enabled by the aid of this four-legged assistant to capture and secure at least twice as much game as could be taken by any two men.

Now it is a notorious fact that punishment frequently falls upon the wrong shoulders, and in this instance it is not difficult to illustrate. For be it remembered that the poor dog is only doing his duty when he is engaged in capturing game - it is his special avocation, for which he is peculiarly fitted; therefore I hold that he ought not to be subjected to the penalty of wounds, suffering, and death for obeying the order which he has received, and which is perfectly natural to his disposition; he, poor brute, is only acting under orders, and faithfully carrying out his instructor's intentions. No one has any sympathy with the master of such an animal, therefore the penalty ought in justice to fall upon the poacher, and not on the dog.

Now regarding the sagacity of this dog, it is really extraordinary and wonderful, for it not only comprehends the unspoken commands of its master, but it appreciates quite as fully as himself the absolute necessity for lying concealed when enemies are near, and in every case of moving as stealthily as a thief. It is even trained to guide the way for its owner, and to give timely warning of hidden foes. It is destructive to all classes of game, and more especially where rabbits and hares abound. Its delicate sense of smell enables it to diagnose its prey at a considerable distance, and its superior speed qualifies it to pounce upon the hare or rabbit before it actually has time for shelter or flight. As soon as it secures its prey it brings it to its master, deposits it in his hands, and silently yet expeditiously renews its search after another victim; even pheasants and partridges are often captured by this singularly crafty and agile animal.

It can also be entrusted with guardianship of the house, and will watch faithfully the property committed to its charge with vigilance and fidelity; or it can watch a flock of sheep, or conduct them from one place to another nearly if not quite so well as the true Colley from which it sprang.