an article of diet, render it one of the most
convenient articles of provision; and hence in agricultural districts,
and other places far remote from towns, it is an almost universal
article of food.

The number of species that form the group of hogs or swine is very
limited indeed; in all not exceeding half a score. These, however, are
found in endless varieties, and distributed over all the globe, since in
each of the five great divisions one or more indigenous kind of hog has
been found. That which forms the type on which the swine family is
founded, is, of course, the _Common Pig_; and this is supposed to be
descended from the wild boar, so well-known in connection with the chase
during medieval times.

It is superfluous to say that the common hog of our farmyards has been
propagated until an almost countless variety of breeds have been
produced--not only every country, but even single counties or provinces
having a breed of its own. All, however, are so much alike in habits
and general appearance, and their characteristics so well-known, that it
would be idle to give any description of them here. We shall only
remark that the pig, if fairly treated, is by no means an animal of
filthy or dirty habits, as is generally supposed. On the contrary, it
is cleanly in its nature; and its slovenliness is brought upon it by the
manner in which it is styed up, in its own filth. Neither is it a
stupid creature, but possesses considerable intelligence; as is proved
by the tricks which it has been taught to perform under the name of the
"learned pig;" while several individuals have been trained to follow the
gun, and stand to game as stanch as the best pointers. In France it is
not uncommon for the truffle-hunters to use pigs in search of this
favourite esculent--the keenness of scent which the animal possesses
enabling it to find this hidden treasure, just as it does potatoes or
other roots, far under the surface of the ground.

The _Wild Boar_, next to the common domestic variety, is the best known
and most celebrated of the swine. In earlier times it was found in
every part of Europe. Even at this day, it is not rare in the forest
fastnesses of most of the continental countries, and also in Asia. It
was formerly common in England, and the chase of it was a favourite
pastime among the kings and nobles, especially about the time of the
Norman Conquest. In those days the Game laws were certainly harsh
enough--much