THE PETS
by Unknown · from The National Nursery Book: With 120 illustrations
Adapted Version
Hello, little friends! Let's learn about some nice creatures. They are our friends. They help us each day.
The Sheep is a helpful creature. Its soft wool makes warm clothes. Little sheep are called lambs. Lambs are very playful. The Sheep gives us good food. We like The Sheep.
The Sheep eats green grass. It loves green meadows. A shepherd helps the sheep. A dog helps the sheep too. The dog keeps them safe. They are happy.
Look at The Rabbit. It is a merry creature. The Rabbit likes to play. It has many babies. Rabbits need safe places. They hide from danger. They live close.
The Rabbit has soft fur. Its fur is very nice. Many rabbits have white fur.
The Cow is a very helpful creature. It gives us good milk. Milk makes butter and cheese. The Cow also gives us food. It is a gentle creature. We love The Cow.
The Cow is a good mother. She loves her baby. Her baby is a calf. She takes good care.
The Donkey is a strong creature. It helps carry heavy things. The Donkey is very patient. It is kind when we are kind. It works hard.
The Donkey helps people work. It carries big loads. We must be kind to it. It will work very well.
The Rooster wakes us up. He crows in the morning. The Hen lays eggs for us. Little chicks are her babies. They are small and cute.
The Hen takes care of chicks. She keeps them safe. She hides them under her wings.
The Horse is a strong creature. It is very smart. The Horse has a good mind. It knows places well. It learns fast.
The Horse is a good friend. It is brave and loyal. It knows many sounds. We love The Horse. It helps people.
The Goat is a helpful creature. It gives us good milk. It also gives us food. The Goat likes to climb. It is very active.
The Goat loves to climb. It jumps very well. It is very active.
Creatures are very special. They give us so much! We must be kind to our pet friends. We must care for them well.
Original Story
THE PETS.
THE SHEEP.
The sheep is a very useful animal. Its wool, sheared off, makes us cloth and flannel, and all kinds of woollen goods; and its flesh, called mutton, is a chief part of our food. When sheep are little they are called lambs, and are very playful, pretty creatures.
SHEEP.
Sheep soon learn to know the voice of their shepherd, and will follow it. In Eastern countries the shepherd walks before his flock, and they are led by his voice. There are dogs called sheep-dogs, which take care of the flocks, and protect the sheep, and keep them together. In some countries these dogs have often to fight with wolves, which attack the sheep and carry them off whenever they can; but the dogs are quite able to keep the wolf away when they are trained to do so.
RABBITS.
On the Scottish hills the sheep-dog is often obliged to seek his charge in the snow-drifts, and to help get out a poor sheep or lamb which has got buried in it. Sheep love green meadows and pure water. You remember, I dare say, the beautiful Psalm, "The Lord is my shepherd, therefore I shall lack nothing."
RABBITS.
Are the favourite pets of boys. They are merry little creatures, and it is an amusing sight to watch them running over the green turf about their warren, when they are free. They have many enemies, however, such as dogs, foxes, and weasels. But, in spite of their enemies, rabbits live a merry life together.
There are a great many different kinds of tame rabbits; some are white, with pink eyes and long ears. Rabbits have many young ones. One pair will have fifty-six little rabbits in a year. So it is lucky many other creatures feed on them. If they were left to increase, they would soon eat up every stalk of corn and all the green herbs.
The native country of the rabbit is Spain. In the Orkney Islands, where there are great numbers of rabbits, the wild ones are of a grey colour, and in winter time almost white.
The fur of the rabbit is much used for making hats. They are good for food also.
THE COW.
Is a very valuable animal; indeed I do not know what we should do without her. She gives us milk and butter, cheese and cream; her skin is of great use, and her flesh is often eaten as beef. Cows grow fond of those who are kind to them.
COW AND CALF.
There are a great many different kinds of cows; some red, some black, some brindled, white or spotted. Herefordshire cows have white faces. The ancient Britons had great numbers of fine cows; and wild cattle were common in our country seven hundred years ago. In the neighbourhood of London, in Henry II.'s reign, there was a large forest which contained a great many wild bulls and cows.
THE DONKEY.
The cow is a good mother, very fond of her calf. The bull is a very bold, fierce animal. It has a great dislike to the colour red, and will run after and if it can toss any one wearing it. In Spain they have a cruel sport, called bull fights, between these brave animals and men on horseback.
The flesh of the cow and ox is called beef; that of the calf is veal.
THE DONKEY.
This patient and useful animal is supposed to have come at first from the East, where it still continues to be of a greater size and of a much better appearance. They were as valuable there in former ages as horses; great men and judges rode on asses. The ass is very fond of its foal, and can be attached to its master if kindly treated. Its milk is thought very good for consumptive people. It is very sure-footed, and strong, and able to carry heavy burdens.
The Donkey is a very useful animal to the poor. It can do a great deal of work on very coarse and cheap food. Thistles make a dainty dinner for the ass. It is patient and gentle, but occasionally very obstinate; a fault chiefly produced in the poor beast by ill-usuage.
Children should never be cruel to this poor animal, but treat it kindly, and it will not then be stubborn and slow, but will do its best to carry them.
THE COCK, THE HEN, AND THE CHICKENS.
Here is a fine farm-yard family! very useful friends of ours. The cock, who is a brave, spirited bird, wakes us up in the morning by crowing; the hen lays us eggs for breakfast, and when the wee chicks are big enough, they are very good food, as roast chicken. The cock teaches us watchfulness; the hen, motherly love.
THE COCK, THE HEN, AND THE CHICKENS.
There are many different kinds of fowls. The largest are the tall Cochin Chinas; the smallest the pert little Bantams. It is a great amusement for children to have a few fowls to feed, and take care of. Feeding them and finding their eggs is one of the country child's pleasures.
The hen sits on her eggs for three weeks; and when the chicks are hatched, she takes the greatest care of them, gathering them under her wings when danger is near or the weather is at all cold; and she is ready to fight a hawk or even a dog in defence of her little ones.
Fowls feed on barley or any kind of grain, and pick up worms, &c., in their run. Stinging-nettles are very good food for chickens.
THE HORSE.
This noblest of animals is believed to be a native of Arabia; but was in our islands before the Romans came here. The first money coined in Britain was stamped with the figure of a horse.
THE HORSE.
The horse has a wonderful memory. He never forgets a place to which he has once been taken. He loves his master if well treated; and in battles he displays the greatest courage and joy. He also understands sounds, and loves music. Indeed, the horse may be called the friend of man, and deserves all the kindness we can show him.
The Arabs bring up their horses with their children in their own tents; and the steed thus reared is very sensible and gentle. An Arab will not sell his favourite horse for any sum, however large: it is as dear to him as his children.
THE GOAT.
The goat is a very useful animal. Its flesh is very good, though English people seldom eat it. Its milk is very good also, and of use to people in consumption. The most beautiful gloves are made from its skin.
GOATS.
Goats abound on the Welsh mountains; it is, indeed, an animal that loves the great hills. The Welsh goats are white; they are very active, and walk on the brink of precipices, and take the most wonderful leaps. The scent of a goat is unpleasant, but it is thought to prevent infection amongst cattle.
Horses are very fond of goats. They are more common in France than with us. In that country one sees a goat with nearly every flock of sheep.
Goats' flesh is called “kid.” Do you remember how Jacob deceived his father with the skin and meat of a kid of the goats?
Story DNA
Moral
Animals provide essential resources and companionship, and in return, deserve kindness and respect.
Plot Summary
This text provides an informative overview of several domestic animals, including sheep, rabbits, cows, donkeys, chickens, horses, and goats. For each animal, it details their physical characteristics, behaviors, and the various ways they are useful to humans, such as providing food, clothing, or labor. The narrative also touches upon their natural habitats, historical significance, and the importance of treating them with kindness, often highlighting their affectionate or loyal qualities. The overall message emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between humans and these animals, underscoring their value and the responsibility of care.
Themes
Emotional Arc
informative and appreciative
Writing Style
Narrative Elements
Cultural Context
Reflects a pre-industrial or early industrial society where domestic animals were central to daily life, economy, and food supply. The mention of bull fights in Spain highlights cultural differences.
Plot Beats (14)
- Introduction to the sheep, detailing its wool, meat, and playful lambs.
- Description of sheep's behavior, their relationship with shepherds and sheep-dogs, and their love for meadows.
- Introduction to rabbits, their playful nature, enemies, and rapid reproduction.
- Details about different rabbit breeds, their fur, and their origin in Spain.
- Introduction to the cow, its valuable products (milk, butter, cheese, cream, beef, hide), and its affectionate nature.
- Description of various cow breeds, historical presence of wild cattle, and the cow's maternal instincts.
- Introduction to the donkey, its Eastern origins, historical value, and affectionate nature when treated kindly.
- Emphasis on the donkey's usefulness to the poor, its diet, and a moral lesson on treating it kindly.
- Introduction to the farm-yard family: cock, hen, and chickens, highlighting their utility (waking, eggs, food).
- Details about different fowl breeds, the hen's maternal care, and their diet.
- Introduction to the horse, its Arabian origins, historical significance in Britain, and remarkable memory.
- Description of the horse's loyalty, courage, understanding of sounds, and its status as a 'friend of man'.
- Introduction to the goat, its useful flesh, milk, and skin.
- Description of goats' habitat (Welsh mountains), agility, and a brief mention of their scent and a biblical reference.
Characters
The Sheep
A medium-sized, stocky animal covered in thick, curly wool. Its legs are relatively short and sturdy, supporting a rounded body. It has a gentle demeanor.
Attire: Its natural wool coat, typically off-white or cream, sometimes with darker patches depending on the breed. This wool is its only 'clothing'.
Wants: To graze peacefully, stay with its flock, and follow its shepherd's voice.
Flaw: Its defenselessness against predators and its tendency to get lost or buried in snow without assistance.
Remains largely unchanged, representing a constant source of utility and gentle presence.
Docile, trusting, communal, easily led, and somewhat vulnerable.
The Rabbit
A small, agile mammal with a compact body, powerful hind legs, and a short, fluffy tail. Its fur is soft and dense.
Attire: Its natural fur coat, which can be grey, brown, white, or spotted, depending on the breed and environment.
Wants: To eat, play, reproduce, and avoid predators.
Flaw: Its vulnerability to numerous predators and its rapid reproductive rate which can lead to overpopulation.
Remains largely unchanged, representing a lively and prolific part of the ecosystem.
Merry, playful, social (with other rabbits), cautious, and quick to flee.
The Cow
A large, robust bovine with a broad body, strong legs, and a long tail ending in a tuft of hair. Its hide can vary greatly in color and pattern.
Attire: Its natural hide, which can be various colors and patterns (e.g., red, black, brindled, white, spotted).
Wants: To graze, nurture her calf, and provide milk.
Flaw: Can be easily exploited for her resources; her male counterpart (bull) can be fierce.
Remains largely unchanged, embodying a consistent source of sustenance and maternal care.
Valuable, kind (to those who treat her well), maternal, and generally placid.
The Donkey
A sturdy, medium-sized equine with a compact body, long ears, and a tufted tail. Often grey or brown in color.
Attire: Its natural coat, typically grey, brown, or black, with a lighter muzzle and belly.
Wants: To serve its master, carry burdens, and care for its foal.
Flaw: Its stubbornness, often a result of poor treatment, and its vulnerability to abuse.
Remains largely unchanged, serving as a symbol of humble utility and resilience, with its behavior reflecting its treatment.
Patient, useful, strong, sure-footed, gentle (if treated kindly), and occasionally obstinate (due to ill-treatment).
The Cock
A proud, upright fowl with a muscular body, strong legs, and a distinctive, elaborate tail. Known for its vibrant plumage.
Attire: Its natural, vibrant plumage, often featuring iridescent greens, blues, reds, and golds, with a prominent red comb and wattles.
Wants: To crow and announce the morning, protect his hens and chicks, and maintain order in the farmyard.
Flaw: Can be overly aggressive towards perceived threats.
Remains largely unchanged, embodying the spirit of vigilance and protection.
Brave, spirited, watchful, and protective of his flock.
The Hen
A plump, rounded fowl with a compact body, short wings, and sturdy legs. Her plumage is typically less flashy than the cock's.
Attire: Her natural plumage, typically brown, grey, or speckled, with a small red comb and wattles.
Wants: To lay eggs, hatch and raise her chicks, and find food for her family.
Flaw: Her vulnerability to predators when protecting her chicks.
Remains largely unchanged, embodying the essence of maternal care and domestic utility.
Motherly, protective, diligent (in laying eggs), and brave in defense of her young.
The Horse
A noble, muscular equine with a powerful build, long legs, and a flowing mane and tail. Its coat can be various colors.
Attire: Its natural coat, which can be various colors, with a flowing mane and tail.
Wants: To serve its master, run freely, and respond to kindness.
Flaw: Can be mistreated or exploited, leading to a loss of trust.
Remains largely unchanged, representing a steadfast friend and noble companion to humanity.
Noble, intelligent, courageous, loyal (to a kind master), and sensitive to sounds and music.
The Goat
A nimble, hardy ruminant with a slender body, strong legs, and often a beard. Its coat can be various colors, often white in Welsh varieties.
Attire: Its natural shaggy coat, often white in Welsh varieties, with a distinctive beard (if male).
Wants: To graze, climb, and navigate challenging terrain.
Flaw: Its strong, sometimes unpleasant scent.
Remains largely unchanged, embodying resilience and adaptability to mountainous environments.
Useful, active, hardy, loves hills, and can be somewhat stubborn.
Locations
Scottish Hills
Snow-covered hills in Scotland, where sheep-dogs search for buried sheep in snow-drifts.
Mood: Harsh, challenging, but also a place of rescue
Sheep-dogs are often obliged to seek their charge in the snow-drifts and help buried sheep.
Green Meadows with Pure Water
Lush, verdant meadows with clear, untainted water sources, ideal for sheep.
Mood: Peaceful, nurturing, idyllic
Sheep love these environments, evoking the imagery of the Psalm 'The Lord is my shepherd'.
Rabbit Warren on Green Turf
An area of green turf where rabbits live freely in their warren, characterized by burrows and open space for play.
Mood: Lively, playful, natural
It's an amusing sight to watch rabbits running over the green turf about their warren.
Farm-yard
A bustling farm-yard, home to chickens, a cock, and a hen, with areas for feeding and foraging.
Mood: Lively, industrious, domestic
The cock wakes everyone up, the hen lays eggs, and children find amusement in feeding the fowls.
Welsh Mountains
Rugged, steep mountains in Wales where goats thrive, known for precipices and active terrain.
Mood: Wild, challenging, majestic
Goats abound here, walking on the brink of precipices and taking wonderful leaps.