appointed place. The construction is most cleverly contrived, the 

 larger logs being held firmly together by smaller twigs and mud 

 plastered down so securely with the fore feet as to make the dam 

 absolutely water-tight. It is widest at the base where the pressure is 

 the greatest, and, if the current is strong, may present a convex sur- 

 face to break the force of the water. During the fall each year it is 

 thoroughly inspected and the weak spots reinforced against the com- 

 ing storms. The greater portion of the beaver's labor is performed 

 at night and the amount of work accomplished as well as its dura- 

 bility prove him possessed of industry and skill second to none of 

 the wild creatures, and possibly superior to any other of them. 



137 



