The Accuracy with which the Mule traverses the Alps

Among the Alps, the path often occupies only the space of a few feet width, having, on one side an eminence of perpendicular ascent, and on the other a vast abyss, and, as it generally follows the direction of the mountains, presents frequently declivities of several hundred yards. On arriving at one of these, the mule halts for a moment, and no effort of the rider can for the time urge it forward. It appears alarmed at the contemplation of the danger. In a few moments, however, it places its four feet as it might be supposed to do in the act of stopping itself, and almost immediately closes its hinder feet, somewhat advancing them, so as to give the idea of its intention to lie down. In this attitude it glides down the descent with astonishing rapidity: yet amidst all its speed, retains that self-government which enables it to follow, with the most perfect precision, all the windings of the road, and to avoid every impediment to its progress and security.