"Pat Murphy - Menagerie" - читать интересную книгу автора (Murphy Pat)

noticed that the man smoked cigars, used hair on, and spoke in harsh, urgent,
tones. When asked the best way to control the animal, the keeper had suggested
that they make use of the whip -- the animal best understood pain and
punishment. George took note and decided that the beast's prejudices were not
irrational, but rather based on experience. Treated cruelly by a keeper, the
creature naturally became wary of sounds and scents associated with that man.

Hesitantly, George told Selina of his findings. She nodded thoughtfully. "And
you disagreed with his suggested treatment of the elephant{"

"To understand a wild creature, you must take the time to watch and wait," he
said. "There is no use in rushing a wild thing. But Mr. Gordon does not wish to
understand wild creatures. Rather, he wishes to bring them under his control."

"And you do not wish to control this elephant," she said. "By what you say, I
think you want to be the beast's friend."

George thought for a moment, knowing that William would be most amused at the
thought of being a .wild creature's friend. Then he nodded. "I think that is a
fair assessment, Miss Selina. I want to understand the beast and its way of
thinking, and that is the basis for friendship."

"Why did you frown before you spoke{"

"If Mr. Gordon heard me speak of friendship with an animal, he would be most
amused at my expense. Mr. Gordon mistakes kindness as a display of weakness,"

She smiled archly. "You understand Mr. Gordon's responses just as you understand
the elephant's." George began to protest, but she waved a hand, dismissing his
words. They were nearing the house, and George thought it best to let the matter
drop.

BACK AT THE HOUSE, Lady Dustan was planning the day's amusements. She greeted
Selina and George with a detailed account of what would take place. Under Sir
Radford's guidance, the party would tour the gardens. In the afternoon, they
would have an alfresco tea beneath the shade trees near the elephant enclosure,
with pigeon pies and cold lamb and wholesome bread and strawberries from Selwyn
Park's own strawberry beds. Following tea, they would return to the house for a
game of cards.

Lady Dustan was decisive in such matters, and her plan was carried out with the
precision of a military maneuver -- until midway through tea.

The party was relaxing in the shade, conversing about the fine weather. The
shade was most refreshing, and Lady Dustan was finding this time the most
pleasant part of the day. She observed that William Gordon had found a seat in
the midst of the ladies, where he was making every effort to amuse and be
agreeable. He appeared to be paying every distinguishing attention to Selina.
That young lady met his gallantries with polite smiles, but, Lady Dustan
thought, showed him no particular favor.