vvENGER THE MOLE 27 



The Golden Mole of South Africa has a fur with a beautiful 

 metallic lustre from which it derives its name. 



It may be of interest to stop here to mention the great ferocity 

 displayed by this little creature. Two moles held in captivity 

 were .observed to fight furiously, the battle terminating in the 

 weaker combatant being devoured by the stronger. In speaking 

 of this noticeable trait, someone has said that were they as large 

 as lions their ferocity would be more terrifying than that of any 

 other creature. 



The number of litters produced during a year seems to be a 

 disputed question. Some authorities claim there is but one; 

 Merriam believes there are two or more. Nests have been found 

 to contain from one to six young. The young of the Oregon Mole 

 are born in March and grow so rapidly that by May they can 

 hardly be distinguished from the adults and are already working 

 in tunnels. 



I trust that this discussion of the characteristics and value of 

 this interesting animal will not fail to have the desired effect of 

 removing any unworthy prejudice you may formerly have held. 

 Do not condemn the mole unless you can prove him guilty. You, 

 yourself, would not wish to be condemned to death on "circum- 

 stantial evidence," so give the mole as fair a chance, remembering ; 



No single thing did God create, 



But he for it gave food, 

 And whether it be small or great, 

 "He saw that it was good." 



— Thomas Miller 



