That the merino was originally English is a fact resting upon better authority than can usually be found for facts of this kind. Is there not reason to suppose, that as the wool was improved by the effect of a better climate upon the sheep, it will gradually return to its original state when the breed is again thoroughly naturalised in England? In Denmark, Mr. Macdonald tells us, (Travels in Denmark, vol. 1, p. 101) they have already degenerated, for the wool is much coarser than any merino wool which he had seen before. This degeneracy he supposes to be the consequence of bad keeping. The climate has probably had as much influence as neglect. Wool, we know, in very hot countries becomes coarser, till it at last assumes the character of hair; but it does not necessarily follow that fine wool should be the growth of cold countries. A certain degree of temperature may be necessary for its perfection. There is no
