THIRTY TEARS A HUNTER. 167 



only made a beginning upon the hog, his hide and 

 carcass more than* paid for the damage he had done. 

 About the first of [November is the rutting season 

 for bears, and at this time the old he-bears keep up 

 a noise which may be heard a mile. 



They are very fond of honey, and when one finds 

 a bee-tree, he will not rest until he has obtained 

 the honey. Once while I was in the woods hunting 

 I heard a noise like that made by a bear while in a 

 tree after nuts. It seemed somewhat strange, as it 

 was not the season for nuts, and after reconnoitering 

 for some time, I discovered a bear high up on a 

 dead pine tree, scratching and pawing at the wood 

 very industriously. I resolved to ascertain the cause 

 of his strange conduct, and seated myself, where I 

 could see the performance. In about half an hour 

 he had penetrated the shell, and thrusting in his 

 paws he brought them out loaded with honey. The 

 bees flew at him, stinging his head, paws and tongue. 

 He rubbed his head with his reeking paws, but did 

 not allow the stings to interrupt his feast for a mo- 

 ment. He continued to gorge himself, and growl 

 his impotent rage at his little tormentors, until I had 

 witnessed enough, when I called loudly to him. He 

 looked at me, but was so intent upon his repast that 

 he paid but little attention. I repeated my call and 

 swung my hat, when he comprehended the nature 

 of the intruder, and letting go his hold he dropped 

 to the ground, and made a precipitate retreat. I 

 allowed him to move away unmolested, as the skin 

 and flesh were worthless, it not being the season for 



