Although Mike had no great knowledge of natural history, he was as fond of searching for animals as I was, and consequently was always ready to accompany me when he had the chance.  He was an honest fellow; a thorough Patlander in look, manners, language, and ideas.  When he could, he used to press Tom Quambo, an old free negro, into the service; and Quambo enjoyed the fun as much as Mike did.  Each possessed a dog, of which they were very proud, ugly as the animals were to look at.