Publisher's Synopsis
Formed like man, and practicing similar gestures, but with thumbs instead of greattoes upon their feet, and with so narrow a heel-bone, that even those whoconstantly walk upright have not the firm and dignified step of human beings; theQuadrumana yet approximate so closely to us, that they demand the first place in abook devoted principally to the intellectual (whether it be reason or instinct)history of animals. This approximation is a matter of amusement to some; but tothe larger portion of mankind, I should say, it is a source of disgust. "Rapoynda," Iexclaimed, one day, to a troublesome, inquisitive, restless negro, pointing to a blackmonkey, which much resembled him in character, "that is your brother." Nevershall I forget the malignant scowl which passed over the man's features at myheedless comparison. No apology, no kindness, not even the gift of a smartwaistcoat, which he greatly coveted, ever restored me to his good graces; and Iwas not sorry when his Chief summoned him from my vicinity, for I dreaded hisrevenge.
