(in 1823) visiting in a house, where a very pleasing and singular
portrait attracted our observation: it was that of a young lady,
represented with a partridge perched upon her shoulder, and a dog with
his feet on her arm. We recognised it as a representation of the lady
of the house; but were at a loss to account for the odd association of
her companions. She observed our surprise, and at once gave the
history of the bird and the spaniel. They were both, some years back,
domesticated in her family. The dog was an old parlour favourite, who
went by the name of Tom; the partridge was more recently introduced
from France, and answered to the equally familiar name of Bill. It
was rather a dangerous experiment to place them together, for Tom was
a lively and spirited creature, very apt to torment the cats, and to
bark at any object which roused his instinct. But the experiment was
tried; and Bill, being very tame, did not feel much alarm at his
natural enemy. They were, of course, shy at first; but this shyness
gradually wore off: the bird became less timid, and the dog less bold.
The most perfect friendship was at length established between them.
When the hour of dinner arrived, the partridge invariably flew on his
mistress's shoulder, calling with that shrill note which is so well
known to sportsmen; and the spaniel leapt about with equal ardour. One
dish of bread and milk was placed on the floor, out of which the
spaniel and bird fed together. After their social meal, the dog would
retire to a corner to sleep, while the partridge would nestle between
his legs, and never stir till his favourite awoke. Whenever the dog
accompanied his mistress out, the bird displayed the utmost
disquietude till his return; and once, when the partridge was shut up
by accident a whole day, the dog searched about the house, with a
mournful cry which indicated the strength of his affection. The
friendship of Tom and Bill was at length fatally terminated. The
beautiful little dog was stolen; and the bird from that time refused
food, and died on the seventh day, a victim to his grief."

A friend of mine has a small spaniel, which very recently showed
great sagacity. This dog, which is much attached to him, was left
under the care of a servant while his master paid a visit of a few
weeks in Hampshire. The poor animal was so miserable during his
absence, that he was informed of it, and directed the dog to be sent
to him in a hamper, which was done