The universal directory for taking alive and destroying rats,

The author's introduction draws attention to the fact that much had hitherto been written about the profitable cultivation of desirable animals, but his intent is to take "cognizance of those animals, noxious to the community," to describe "their wonderful wiliness and sagacity, and the uncommon and suprizing methods they take for self- preservation.for the infinite wisdom of the great Creator is as conspicuous in the mole as in a camel." In addition to various rats and mice, Smith provides advice on hedge hogs, squirrels, weasels, moles, cats, pole cats, bats, hawks, owls, and buzzards. His work is notable for the minute observation it extended toward species normally beneath the gaze of natural historians of his, and earlier, times.