HUNTING IN MAINE. 299 



are so frequent as the common black bear. Their superior 

 strength, the skill with which they ward off blows, and even 

 wrench an instrument from the hands of an assailant, and 

 their tenacity of life, render them really a formidable anta- 

 gonist. We have sometimes been diverted, as well as severely 

 annoyed, by their thievish tricks. In one instance we were 

 followed several days by one of them on our passage up the 

 river, who seemed equally bent on mischief and plunder. 

 The first of our acquaintance with him occurred while en- 

 camped at the mouth of a small stream, whose channel we 

 were improving by the removal of large rocks which obstructed 

 log-driving. Our camp was merely temporary, so that all 

 our goods were exposed. While we were asleep during the 

 night, he came upon our premises, and selected from the bag- 

 gage a Bundle containing all the winter clothing of one of the 

 men boots, shaving tools, &c. 



" His curiosity was too great to allow of a far removal of 

 the pack without an examination of its contents ; and never 

 did deputy inspector or constable perform a more thorough 

 search. Duties on the package were inadmissible ; the goods 

 were esteemed contraband, and were accordingly confiscated. 

 The wearing .apparel was torn into shreds. There was a 

 pair of stout cow-hide boots, of which he tried the flavor ; 

 they were chewed up and spoiled. The razor did not escape 

 his inquisitiveness. Whether he attempted to shave we say 

 not, but he tested its palatableness by chewing the handle." 



