It has been already remarked, under the head MARE, that foals more frequently take after the DAM than the SIRE, and this is perceptibly striking in MULES; for those bred between an ASS and a MARE, invariably partake more of the nature of the _latter_ than the former; being in general of good formation, lively, swift, and tractable; inheriting only the good qualities of the ass, as his strength, patience, and perseverance, under fatigue; while, on the other hand, those bred betwixt a horse and a she-ass, are more of the nature of the latter, dull, heavy, sluggish, ill-formed, and small in size. What few mules are produced in this kingdom, at least the major part, may be probably bred more from chance than design, by the common intermixture and unrestrained association of asses with mares, upon the large wastes and commons in various parts of the country, where they are frequently seen in the act of propagation. Of mules, it is to be observed, that, although such intermediate animal is produced between the two which generate the third, there the prolific property ceases, and propagation goes no farther. Thus it is with a part of the feathered creation; it is known by those who breed, that a cock goldfinch, or a linnet, will pair with a hen canary, and produce young; but in that offspring the power of procreation entirely ceases, and they are therefore termed MULES. MUTE—is a sporting term, applied to a HOUND when he pursues his GAME by the scent, without giving _tongue_. As some are by much too free, and give tongue too hastily, when in a state of uncertainty, acquiring thereby the degrading denomination of a _babbler_; so there are others equally tardy in proclaiming the certainty when known. Hounds of each description are considered injurious to the discipline and desirable excellence of the pack, and are generally rejected so soon as their imperfections are known, and too much confirmed for reformation.