"... in the early part of the last century the breed nearly died out, and the monks were compelled to re-cross the few remaining dogs they had left in their possession with others they had obtained outside the Hospice. According to one authority . . . a cross with the Newfoundland was first tried by the monks in their dilemma, but was subseqently abandoned when it failed to succeed. The puppies were rough coated, and as before pointed out, the long hair was an objection in these Alpine dogs, where their great work during the winter was the one consideration. .... In 1812 ... a terrible snowstorm took place, and the aid of the monks and dogs was so constantly required that even the female dogs, the most feeble dogs, were called into requisition, and perished. There were sufficient males left, but not a single female. How was the breed to be kept up? The monks resolved to obtain some females of the Newfoundland breed, celebrated for their strength and accustomed to a cold climate. This idea turned out useless when put in practice, because the young dogs had long hair. In winter this long hair so collected the snow that the poor beasts succumbed under its weight and perished. The monks tried crossing the offspring of one of their own dogs with the offspring of the cross breed, with the short, stubby hair. At last this plan succeeded. From that bastard female dog they have reconstructed the race of the dogs that are now in the Hospice. These dogs, notwithstanding their cross with the Newfoundland, have the same valor and courage as the ancient race.... (250)