The Raccoon 61 



not chain him, he takes to the barn, hiding in the 

 haymow, where you seldom see him. Finally he 

 begins to make nightly excursions; and sooner or 

 later he hears and answers the call of his wild kin- 

 dred, leaving the haymow nest for the freedom of a 

 hollow in a tree and the companionship of his own 

 kind. 



The raccoon shows considerable affection for his 

 master, and his skilful manner in using his paws, 

 and the intelligent expression of his face, endear him 

 to all who make his acquaintance. We sincerely hope 

 that the tracks of this little prowler will long be found 

 about the muddy banks of the old familiar brooks and 

 ponds, and that the quavering voice may still shiver 

 on the August night. Some say that it is the cry of 

 the screech owl and not that of the raccoon; but 

 whether the cry that vibrates through the gloom of 

 grove and orchard be that of owl or raccoon, long 

 may it be before either shall go the way of all wild 

 things ! 



