CHAPTER III.
I had taken much pains to improve the sagacity of a favourite Spaniel.
It was my purpose, indeed, to ascertain to what degree of improvement the principles of reasoning and imitation could be carried in a dog.
There is no doubt that the animal affixes distinct ideas to sounds.

What are the possible limits of his vocabulary no one can tell.

In conversing with my dog I did not use English words, but selected simple monosyllables.

Habit likewise enabled him to comprehend my gestures.

If I crossed my hands on my breast he understood the signal and laid down behind me.