THE BLACK BEAR TIMOROUS. 157 



small and rounded, the same distance in situation behind 

 the eye that the eye is from the nose ; the measurement in 

 circumference close in front of the shoulder is almost as 

 great as behind, which gradually increases as it ranges back- 

 ward till the loftiest point of the spinal vertebra? is reach- 

 ed ; while the hind limbs, from their immense muscular 

 power, as well as abundance of flesh, appear like the ex- 

 tremities of a man encased in peg-top trovvsers. In walk- 

 ing, the toes of the fore-feefc are turned in, while the use of 

 the nether limbs is so human as to appear like a burlesque 

 on genus homo; but if a casual observer be thus struck, 

 the anatomist recognizes in this exaggerated formation the 

 means supplied the animal by nature to ascend trees, escape 

 .enemies, or earn its support. The color, when the pelt is 

 prime, is glossy black ; but in early spring a rufous tint is 

 strongly developed ; this is assisted by the undergrowth of 

 wool becoming elongated, and showing through the coarser 

 black hairs that at other seasons are the only visible cover- 

 ing, unless a close and minute inspection be made. From 

 the eyes, in a straight line almost at right angles to the 

 nose, the fur is brown, with a tip of the same color fre- 

 quently over the eyebrow. At the same time, exceptions, 

 more particularly among those of the North-western States, 

 are to be found, which are black to the nostrils. 



As a general rule, when this bear is in a state of nature, 

 he is extremely timorous of man, flying from him with 

 a stealth and rapidity almost marvelous ; but wound him, 

 hurt him, even insult his dignity, and the huntsman must 

 be prepared for a conflict that will only terminate in death ; 

 for, once enraged and drawn into hostilities, his combative- 

 ness increases, never lessening till life is extinct. However, 

 instances have been known where Bruin has not had these 

 excuses for becoming aggressor; but generally these belli- 

 cose individuals have been an old lady engaged in impart- 



