They took their meals together; and it was remarked on such occasions, when the friendship of animals is put to a hard test, that they never quarrelled or disputed the possession of a favourite fruit with each other.

In this quote, Henry Walter Bates highlights the remarkable bond between animals, particularly focusing on how their friendship and cooperation are tested in situations of scarcity or competition. The animals, despite having access to a favourite fruit, do not quarrel or fight over it, showcasing the natural harmony and mutual respect they maintain. Bates uses this example to emphasize the ability of animals to coexist peacefully and support one another, even in situations where human beings might be inclined to argue or compete.

Bates' words suggest that in the animal kingdom, the bonds of friendship or connection are not easily shaken by external pressures. The fact that the animals do not dispute over something as desirable as food points to an inherent sense of selflessness and cooperation in their relationships. This contrasts with the more combative or selfish tendencies often seen in human interactions, offering a reflection on how friendship can function without selfishness or rivalry.

The origin of this quote comes from Henry Walter Bates, a British naturalist and explorer who is best known for his work on the theory of mimicry in animals. Bates spent much of his life observing the behaviors of animals in the Amazon rainforest, and his writings often reflected his deep respect for the natural world. This quote is likely a reflection of his observations of the peaceful dynamics he witnessed in nature, where cooperation and non-competition often prevailed over conflict.

Bates' reflection on animal behavior serves as a subtle commentary on the potential for human friendships to emulate the same level of mutual respect and harmony. It suggests that true friendship is about understanding and sharing, without the need for rivalry or selfishness, something that both humans and animals can learn from. The animals’ behavior represents an ideal of peaceful coexistence that Bates admired in the natural world.