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CHAPTER VI. 



COON OR SHELL DRAKE CREEK MUSK-RATS THE SKUNK RACOON 



HUNTING STORY OF A SKUNK A RECOLLECTION OF MINNESOTA 



ANAS OB8CURA, BLACK DUCK ALARM IN CAMP PRAIRIE DOGS 



FAITHFUL SENTINELS UNWELCOME GUESTS ANIMAL BAROMETER. 



THE stream where we had halted was called, by 

 some of the teamsters, Coon Creek ; by others, Shell 

 Drake Creek. The last name appeared to me the 

 most suitable, for ducks of different species were to 

 be seen in every direction. From the precipitousness 

 of the banks, it was evident much time would be 

 lost before the waggons succeeded in crossing ; for 

 an incline had to be cut on both sides, to enable 

 them to get in and out of the water. The course 

 had been searched above and below our encampment 

 to find a more available place, but without success ; 

 for where the margin was not precipitous, the depth 

 of water was greater. As it was, I feared some 

 accident must happen even here, as in the trans- 

 portation every wheel would necessarily be sub- 

 merged over the hub. 



However, these Missouri teamsters, having taken 

 soundings, preferred making a trial to being detained 

 for a decrease of the flood. If my opinion had been 

 asked, I should have advised differently; but as 



