106 FOREST LIFE IN ACADIE. 



Another method of calling which has fallen into disus^ 

 was formerly practised by the Indians of the Lower Pro- 

 vinces in the fall. The hunter secretes himself in a 

 swamp — one of those damp mossy valleys in which the 

 moose delights at this season ; no moon is required, an 

 his companion holds an immense torch, made of birch 

 bark, and a match ready for lighting it. The moose 

 comes to the call far more readily than when the hunter 

 is on the open barren or bog, and, when within distance, 

 the match is apphed to the torch ; the resinous bark at 

 once flares brightly, illuminating the swamp for a long 

 distance round, and discovers the astonished moose 

 standing amongst the trees, and apparently incapable of 

 retreat. The Indians say that he is fascinated by the 

 light, and though he may walk round and round, he can- 

 not leave it, and of course offers an easy mark to the 

 rifle. 



It is no easy matter to make sure of a moose, even 

 should he be within pistol range, in the uncertain moon- 

 light ; chalk is sometimes used, the better to show when 

 the barrel is levelled. A highly-polished silver bead is 

 the best for a fore-sight, as it catches the light, and is 

 readily discerned when the alignment is obtained.* 



Moose-calling is always a great uncertainty. Some 

 seasons there are when the moose will not come so readily 

 as in others, but stop after advancing for a short distance, 

 and remain in the forest for hours together, answering 

 the call whenever it is made, and tearing the branches 

 with their horns ; the hunter, his patience worn out, and 



* " The old Buslimaii " recommended for shooting large game at night a 

 V-shaped forked stick to be hound on the muzzle, stating that he found it 

 of great service. Get the object in the field of view between the horns of 

 the V and you are pretty sure to hit. 



