tures, having usually three litters a year and from three to five 

 young each, but seem to be endowed with less keenness of wits for 

 the protection of themselves, which may account for their scarcity. 

 If indeed fortunate enough to disturb one of them, we may be 

 deceived, at first sight, into thinking our find nothing more im- 

 portant than a somewhat slender common mouse. His length is 

 much the same, being about three inches, and his reddish brown 

 color is not conspicuous, although there may be more white on the 

 under-parts. He rarely gives the chance for a fair look at him, 

 however, before off he darts through the air when we may catch a 

 glimpse of the long tail, measuring almost twice the length of the 

 body, and bearing at the end a small tuft of hairs. This tail is a 

 most useful part of his equipment, as it helps him to keep his bal- 

 ance and to choose his direction. The first leap will carry him 

 from eight to ten feet, no other animal of his size can cover as much 

 space at one move, and this distance will be equalled in several 



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