254 HISTORY OF QUADRUPEDS. 



of its nocturnal excursions. The marks in the 

 snow were found to have been made by the motion 

 of the Eel's in the creature's mouth. 



From the above curious circumstance, we have 

 given a representation of this animal (which was 

 drawn from the life) in possession of this singular 

 booty. It may be matter of amusing investigation 

 for some future naturalist, to enquire by what arts 

 this wily animal obtains a booty so apparently dif- 

 ficult for it to lay hold of. 



In attending to the instinctive faculties of ani- 

 mals, there is room for deep and diligent enquiry; 

 and though our progress is liable to many interrup- 

 tions, it is a delightful task to follow the workings 

 of Nature through all her intricate and curious 

 windings : every step we gain is a sufficient reward 

 for our trouble, and leads us to admire the wisdom 

 and goodness of that dispensation which furnishes 

 every creature with sufficient and ample powers to 

 provide for all its wants, necessities, and comforts. 



The female Foumart brings forth in the summer, 

 generally five or six at a time. She suckles them 

 but a short time, and accustoms them early to live 

 upon blood and eggs. 



Though the smell of this animal is rank and dis- 

 agreeable, even to a proverb, yet the skin is drest 

 with the hair on, and used as other furs, without 

 retaining its offensive odour. 



The Foumart is very fierce and bold. When 

 attacked by a Dog, it will defend itself with great 

 spirit, attack in its turn, and fasten upon the nose 

 of its enemy with so keen a bite, as frequently to 

 oblige him to desist. 



