The Rifle and the Hound in Ceylon By: Samuel White Baker (1821-1893)
The Rifle and the Hound in Ceylon by Samuel White Baker takes readers on an exhilarating adventure through the untamed wilderness of Ceylon. Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, Baker masterfully showcases his deep appreciation and understanding of the island's lush landscapes and bountiful wildlife. The narrative unfolds with the author's arrival in Ceylon, where he sets out on a series of thrilling hunts with his trusty companion, a loyal hound named Nero, and his reliable rifle. Baker captures the essence of the hunt in exquisitely detailed accounts, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as they eagerly follow the protagonist through each pursuit. Beyond the exhilaration of the hunt, Baker also offers profound insights into the cultures and people inhabiting Ceylon during the era. His encounters with local tribes and stunning descriptions of their customs and traditions provide readers with a glimpse into a world that is both mysterious and fascinating. One of the notable strengths of this book is Baker's ability to intertwine significant historical events into the narrative seamlessly. From his exploration of the indigenous flora and fauna to his encounters with other European settlers, the author weaves together various threads of the country's past, shedding light on the complex socio-political landscape of Ceylon. Furthermore, the book stands as a testament to the author's appreciation and respect for the natural world. Baker's descriptions of the awe-inspiring landscapes, breathtaking wildlife, and vibrant flora create a vivid tapestry that transports readers to the heart of Ceylon's wilderness. Through his writing, readers are compelled to appreciate the delicate balance between man and nature and the need for conservation. While the images painted by Baker's words are undoubtedly captivating, some readers may feel that the pacing of the narrative at times fluctuates between exhilarating and overly descriptive. However, it is essential to note that these extensive descriptions serve to draw readers deeper into the vibrant world Baker sketches for them, enhancing the overall reading experience. In conclusion, The Rifle and the Hound in Ceylon is a captivating exploration of both the exhilarating world of hunting and the enchanting beauty of Ceylon's wilderness. Baker's expert storytelling, coupled with his deep understanding of the land and its people, makes this book an enthralling read for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. First Page: THE RIFLE AND HOUND IN CEYLON By Sir Samuel White Baker PREFACE. Upwards of twenty years have passed since the 'Rifle and Hound in Ceylon' was published, and I have been requested to write a preface for a new edition. Although this long interval of time has been spent in a more profitable manner than simple sport, nevertheless I have added considerably to my former experience of wild animals by nine years passed in African explorations. The great improvements that have been made in rifles have, to a certain extent, modified the opinions that I expressed in the 'Rifle and Hound in Ceylon.' Breech loaders have so entirely superseded the antiquated muzzle loader, that the hunter of dangerous animals is possessed of an additional safeguard. At the same time I look back with satisfaction to the heavy charges of powder that were used by me thirty years ago and were then regarded as absurd, but which are now generally acknowledged by scientific gunners as the only means of insuring the desiderata of the rifle, i.e., high velocity, low trajectory, long range, penetration, and precision. When I first began rifle shooting thirty seven years ago, not one man in a thousand had ever handled such a weapon. Our soldiers were then armed(With the exception of the Rifle Brigade) with the common old musket, and I distinctly remember a snubbing that I received as a youngster for suggesting, in the presence of military men, 'that the army should throughout be supplied with rifles... Continue reading book >>

The Rifle and the Hound in Ceylon By: Samuel White Baker (1821-1893)

The Rifle and the Hound in Ceylon by Samuel White Baker takes readers on an exhilarating adventure through the untamed wilderness of Ceylon. Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, Baker masterfully showcases his deep appreciation and understanding of the island's lush landscapes and bountiful wildlife.

The narrative unfolds with the author's arrival in Ceylon, where he sets out on a series of thrilling hunts with his trusty companion, a loyal hound named Nero, and his reliable rifle. Baker captures the essence of the hunt in exquisitely detailed accounts, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as they eagerly follow the protagonist through each pursuit.

Beyond the exhilaration of the hunt, Baker also offers profound insights into the cultures and people inhabiting Ceylon during the era. His encounters with local tribes and stunning descriptions of their customs and traditions provide readers with a glimpse into a world that is both mysterious and fascinating.

One of the notable strengths of this book is Baker's ability to intertwine significant historical events into the narrative seamlessly. From his exploration of the indigenous flora and fauna to his encounters with other European settlers, the author weaves together various threads of the country's past, shedding light on the complex socio-political landscape of Ceylon.

Furthermore, the book stands as a testament to the author's appreciation and respect for the natural world. Baker's descriptions of the awe-inspiring landscapes, breathtaking wildlife, and vibrant flora create a vivid tapestry that transports readers to the heart of Ceylon's wilderness. Through his writing, readers are compelled to appreciate the delicate balance between man and nature and the need for conservation.

While the images painted by Baker's words are undoubtedly captivating, some readers may feel that the pacing of the narrative at times fluctuates between exhilarating and overly descriptive. However, it is essential to note that these extensive descriptions serve to draw readers deeper into the vibrant world Baker sketches for them, enhancing the overall reading experience.

In conclusion, The Rifle and the Hound in Ceylon is a captivating exploration of both the exhilarating world of hunting and the enchanting beauty of Ceylon's wilderness. Baker's expert storytelling, coupled with his deep understanding of the land and its people, makes this book an enthralling read for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike.

First Page:

THE RIFLE AND HOUND IN CEYLON

By Sir Samuel White Baker

PREFACE.

Upwards of twenty years have passed since the 'Rifle and Hound in Ceylon' was published, and I have been requested to write a preface for a new edition. Although this long interval of time has been spent in a more profitable manner than simple sport, nevertheless I have added considerably to my former experience of wild animals by nine years passed in African explorations. The great improvements that have been made in rifles have, to a certain extent, modified the opinions that I expressed in the 'Rifle and Hound in Ceylon.' Breech loaders have so entirely superseded the antiquated muzzle loader, that the hunter of dangerous animals is possessed of an additional safeguard. At the same time I look back with satisfaction to the heavy charges of powder that were used by me thirty years ago and were then regarded as absurd, but which are now generally acknowledged by scientific gunners as the only means of insuring the desiderata of the rifle, i.e., high velocity, low trajectory, long range, penetration, and precision.

When I first began rifle shooting thirty seven years ago, not one man in a thousand had ever handled such a weapon. Our soldiers were then armed(With the exception of the Rifle Brigade) with the common old musket, and I distinctly remember a snubbing that I received as a youngster for suggesting, in the presence of military men, 'that the army should throughout be supplied with rifles... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Travel

eBook links
Wikipedia – Samuel White Baker
Wikipedia – The Rifle and the Hound in Ceylon

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac