His theory was that man emerged from a wild and savage condition, much resembling that of apes; that man had then a tail like other animals, but which by progressive civilisation and the constant habit of _sitting_, had become obsolete.

This theory produced many a joke from facetious and superficial people, who had never read any of the arguments of the able and elaborate work, by which the ingenious and learned author maintained his theory[45].

Lord Kames, a brother judge, had his joke on it.

On some occasion of their meeting, Lord Monboddo was for giving Lord Kames the precedency.

Lord K.
declined, and drew back, saying, "By no means, my lord; you must walk first, that I may _see your tail_." I recollect Lord Monboddo's coming to dine at Fasque caused a great excitement of interest and curiosity.