WATER SHREW. 129 



half a minute. I presume it sought and obtained 

 some insect or food among the rubbish and leaves, 

 and retired to consume it. Sometimes it would run 

 a little on the surface, and sometimes timidly and 

 hastily come ashore, but with the greatest caution, 

 and instantly plunge in again. During the whole 

 sweet spring of that fine year, I constantly visited 

 my new acquaintance. When under water he looks 

 grey, on account of the pearly cluster of minute 

 air-bubbles that adhere to his fur, and bespangle 

 him all over. He swims very rapidly ; and, though 

 he appears to dart, his very nimble wriggle is cleany 

 discernible." 



