CHAPTER III. 



THE MUSK-SHEEP. 



ON the vast steppes of barren land that stretch from the 

 sixtieth degree of north latitude to the Arctic Circle, this 

 little-known animal is to be found ; however, I have never 

 been able with certainty to learn that it has ever been seen 

 to the eastward of Hudson Bay. Its favorite haunts are 

 about Great Bear and Great Slave Lake, and along the up- 

 per tributaries of the Mackenzie River. 



From musk-sheep being extremely shy, and the rough- 

 ness of the nature of the country they inhabit, there is but 

 one method for the sportsman to adopt in their pursuit, 

 viz., stalking; and although a small-bore rifle might on such 

 an occasion be employed, I should advise a calibre which 

 shoots a bullet of not under twelve to the pound. 



Any gentleman visiting these regions should endeavor to 

 propitiate the Hudson Bay Fur Company, and, if possible, 

 obtain letters of introduction to the factors of the various 

 forts that extend along his route ; for it will insure him a 

 hearty welcome, shelter in time of necessity, a supply of 

 provisions if stores should run low, and information where 

 the game will be found, with very possibly the assistance 

 of a guide and hunter who is thoroughly conversant with 

 all the surrounding country. 



English and American sportsmen of the present day are 

 possessed of such courage and perseverance that the rigor 

 of the Arctic regions does not intimidate them ; or I would 

 not introduce my readers to this animal. 



Why the musk-sheep should be designated ox by some 



3* 



