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An action at close quarters may sometimes in the end turn into a brave or gallant act. Some call it a daring action. But daring actions alone never come under the above heading. Bravery, we may call "fearless action, which cleaves to its purpose, regardless of consequences." We see courage in that sense in animals too, when they turn at bay. The best courage or bravery we find is that of a game-cock. Courage in men is of a much higher quality than in dumb creatures; because we have thinking and reasoning powers which they have not.
"It is this same courage which often inspires soldiers in battle, and sportsmen in the jungle, to face great peril, not only without fear, but even with a kind of 'stern joy' and pride."[1] Trained soldiers are generally brave men and they stand to-
- ↑ The above words in quotation are Mr. Macnaghten's.
