Dear Sir

I am much pleased to learn from yours of the 18^th. that the information sent by me to M^r. Cupples has been interesting to you—¹

As to the question on w^h. you now wish information viz^t. whether the branches on the horns of deer are intended for use or ornament I feel some diff^y., but am of opinion that they are probably intended for both purposes— For while I know that some of the branches are useful in attack and defence, there are others that I never saw bro^t. into action and I am inclined to think your remark correct that a single point at the top of the horn w^d. be more effective in combat than three points and in fact stags frequently have only one point—but the brow antlers w^h. incline downwards are a great protection to the forehead, & as the their points are turned outwards they are used effectually in attack—²

I have very seldom had a dog killed by a deer for my dogs were deer hounds & not Stag hounds and were used only for coursing, and as a Stag will not turn to bay till he is exhausted a good deer hound will run up to him & pull him down before he is blowen— on this subject you may perhaps find in M^r. Scropes Book on deer stalking some of the information you desire—³

In regard to the other branches I am not aware that they are much used in their fights with each other but I have seen stags in a half tame state use them when fighting with Bulls by bringing the antlers into contact with the Bulls forehead & in every case with success—

I may here mention what is not Gen^y. known that I have frequently seen Stags in a half tame serve Cows, but of course there was no proginy—

The long hair on the Stags neck may be intended for ornamint but it is also a great protecton to him when hunted by dogs who generally seize the throat—⁴

I am sorry that I cannot give more specific information on a Subject in w^h. I take great interest having had for many years an opportunity of studing the habits of diff^t. sorts of animals

Believe me to be | Yours faith^y. | Arch^d. M^c.Neill