HISTORY OF QUADRUPEDS. 283 



five toes; those on the fore feet are armed with 

 strong claws, well adapted for digging its subter- 

 ranean habitation. 



In walking, the Badger treads on its whole heel, 

 like the Bear ; which brings its belly very near the 

 ground. 



Immediately below the tail, between that and the 

 anus, there is a narrow transverse orifice, whence a 

 white substance, of a very fetid smell, constantly 

 exudes. 



The skin, when dressed with the hair on, is used 

 for pistol furniture. Its flesh is eaten: the hind 

 quarters are sometimes made into hams, which, 

 when cured, are not inferior in goodness to the^best 

 bacon. The hairs are made into brushes, which 

 are used by painters to soften and harmonise their 

 shades. 



