396 



BIRDS, BEASTS, AND FISHES 



through a clump of grass, or lying in clumps of sallow or 

 bramble on the walls, or on a beaten path. Some marsh- 

 men aver the young will run down their mothers' throats, 

 and others swear the^'^ " young " like an eel. 



Their bites, though not fatal, are severe. I have known 

 of a small dog killed by a viper's sting ; and I know a strong, 

 healthy marsh-mower was once carried home as if dead after 

 being stung by one of these hateful creatures. 



I have heard experienced marshmen say that " floods kill 

 the wipers," but I know nothing of that. 



There is a curious rockstaff in the marshlands that a viper's 

 slough will draw thorns from your flesh, whilst " wiper's oil " 

 is a reputed specific for " screwmatics." 



GKKAT HOVETON BROAD. 



I'riiited hv Ballantyne, Hanson & Co. 

 Edinburgh and London 



