[18r]

otherwise [text obscured]

exposed in a state of nature [text obscured]

been, we may assume assume thus equally protected.)

On preference or choice shown in the pairing of quadrupeds.─ Before proceeding to describe the differences between the sexes of quadrupeds in voice, odour emitted & ornamentation, it will be convenient to consider whether either sex exerts any choice or preference in their unions. Does the female prefer any particular male more than another, either

[Descent 2: 268: "I am informed by Mr. McNeill that the long hairs on the throat of the stag (Cervus elephas) serve as a great protection to him when hunted, for the dogs generally endeavour to seize him by the throat; but it is not probable that these hairs were specially developed for this purpose; otherwise the young and the females would, as we may feel assured, have been equally protected.
On Preference or Choice in Pairing, as shewn by either sex of Quadrupeds.—Before describing, in the next chapter, the differences between the sexes in voice, odour emitted, and ornamentation, it will be convenient here to consider whether the sexes exert any choice in their unions. Does the female prefer any particular male, either before or after the males may have fought together for supremacy; or does the male, when not a polygamist, select any particular female?"]