Page:Indira and Other Stories.pdf/160

 Their limbs and osteology resemble those of quadrupeds. On a general consideration of their physical structure, they may, I think, fairly be included among the four-footed animals. It is true that they lack the comeliness and force of other quadrupeds, but it would not be fair, merely on this account, to classify them among birds and other mere bipeds.

Among fourfooted beasts, they bear the closest resemblance to monkeys. Men of science tell us that it is possible, in the course of many generations, for animals to develop missing limbs and wanting faculties, and so to rise in the scale of creation. It is permitted to us to entertain the hope that men may, in their progressive evolution, develop tails and rise to the dignity of being monkeys.

"You are all, no doubt, aware that men are agreeable to the taste and furnish digestible and nourishing food." (At these words the members of the audience licked their lips.) "You also know that they fall an easy prey to our noble race. Unlike deer, they are not swift of flight;