Lives of the Hunted

Seton-Thompson, Ernest. Lives of the Containing a True Account of the Doings of Five Quadrupeds and Three Birds. First edition, first impression. London, David Nutt, 1901. 14.5 x 20.5cm. 360 pages, with over 200 drawings. Original embossed hardcover with gilt lettering. Deckled edges. Unusually excellent condition with only very minor signs of wear. Spine slightly faded only. Very sturdy, firm condition. Lives of the Hunted, by Ernest Seton-Thompson, was published in 1901, and added a companion volume to his former successful book, ‘Wild Animals I Have Known.’ It is a collection of eight short stories and each one bears its underlying message of the kinship between man and animals. Five of the stories relate to four-footed animals and three to birds. In the snowy ranges of the Northwest, we are shown Krag, the mighty Kootenay ram, delighting in his strength and beauty, who at last falls victim to man’s desire for “trophies of the chase.” In the guarded forests of the Yellowstone Park we see little “Johnny Bear” borne down in his struggles for existence, and Chink, the trembling little pup, who rises to the heights of dog-like fidelity and courage. In the sage-brush deserts of New Mexico, we follow the Kangaroo rat to the fairy-like labyrinths of his underground kingdom, or view the experiences of Coyotito. Mother Teal, guarding her helpless brood against the perils of the world, Randy, the busy little cock-sparrow, and the chickadees of the North woods, are all pictured in a way that cannot fail to impress the reader. This book, like its predecessor, strikes a note that is clear and forcible as well as appealing, and will do more to change one’s attitude towards the dumb animals than protective and preventive legislation could ever have accomplished. [Warner et al.] Read more