THE ORDER CETACEA. 89 



The shad, mackerel, and cod species are not un- 

 frequently revenged by the xyphias gladius, or sword- 

 fish, which forms one of the most formidable enemies 

 to every species of the whale tribe ; it however attacks 

 this species with greater boldness, and becomes a despe- 

 rate opponent, in spite of the velocity of his motions. 

 We are informed by Martin that he once had an op- 

 portunity of witnessing a most dreadful encounter be- 

 tween the sword-fish and the Iceland or North Cape 

 whale, being unable to approach with his vessel near 

 to the infuriated combatants, who were endeavouring to 

 effect the mutual destruction of each other. Having 

 watched them for a considerable length of time pursuing 

 one another, one precipitated itself on the other with 

 great violence, at the same time inflicting such dreadful 

 blows that the sea was thrown to an immense height 

 around, and the spray falling down with the appearance 

 of a thick fog. 



In consequence of the quickness and agility of this 

 whale, and being at the same time extremely savage, it 

 becomes very difficult to encounter, and still more so 

 to capture. However, when the whalers have been 

 unsuccessful with the mysticetus, they then endeavour 

 to destroy this species ; for the capture of which they 

 are compelled to employ a greater number of boats and 

 harpooners, who must if possible be more active and 

 alert than for the capture of the common whale. When 

 this creature lies on the surface of the ocean, it shows 

 but very little of its body and head above water. 



The female Iceland whale is more easily captured 

 either during pregnancy, or when nourishing her off- 

 spring, her affection for which never allows her to for- 

 sake it. When the whalers have been able to approach 

 one, they must use great precaution, for it turns and 



