Better Than Men

"Better Than Men" by Rush C. Hawkins is a collection of character sketches written in the late 19th century. The book aims to highlight the moral qualities and inherent virtues of various animals, suggesting that they often surpass those of humans in elemental virtues. Through these stories, Hawkins shares personal experiences and observations that reveal the intelligence, loyalty, and affection demonstrated by animals, particularly dogs and horses. At the start of the collection, the author sets the stage with an explanatory preface that articulates the purpose behind these sketches—to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for animals. The opening portion introduces us to some of the animals, particularly focusing on a dog named Rover and a horse named Charlie, as the author recounts fond memories from a summer spent in Vermont. The narrative captures the picturesque setting and portrays the interactions between the animals and the author, illustrating their endearing qualities and the joys of companionship, ultimately suggesting that these animals display loyalty and moral integrity that evades many humans. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Rush Christopher Hawkins was a lawyer, Union colonel in the American Civil War, politician, book collector, and art patron. He was mustered out of the Union Army in 1863 but served in the New York Militia in 1865. In 1866, in consideration of his prior service, he was nominated and confirmed for appointment to the grade of brevet brigadier general of volunteers to rank from March 13, 1865.