Page:Indira and Other Stories.pdf/161

 unlike the buffaloes of our native woods, they have neither horns nor the strength to use them. No reasonable person can doubt that they were created by bountiful Providence solely for the use of tigers, and hence were unprovided with means of escape or defence. But for this obvious consideration it would be difficult to imagine what possible purpose could be served by the existence of a species so feeble and so ill prepared for the competitive struggle of life. Let us, without further argument, admit that they are good for food. For many reasons, and especially on account of the tenderness of their flesh, we are all very fond of men. What may surprise you is the undoubted fact that these creatures are equally fond of us! If any gentleman present is inclined to throw doubt on this assertion, let me, by way of proof, state my own humble experience in the matter. I may perhaps without arrogance claim that in the course of my investigations I have travelled more widely than anyone here to-night. During my wanderings, I happened to journey to the north