THE SHREW. 115 



occasionally putting its long sharp nose out of the water, 

 and paddling close to the edge. This it repeated at 

 frequent intervals, from place to place, seldom going 

 more than two yards from the side, and always returning 

 in about half a minute. I presume it sought and 

 obtained some insect or food among the rubbish and 

 Leaves, and retired to consume it. Sometimes it would 

 run a little on the surface, and sometimes timidly and 

 hastily come ashore, but with the greatest caution, and 

 instantly plunged in again. During the whole sweet 

 spring of that fine year, I constantly visited my new 

 acquaintance. When under water he looks grey, on 

 account of -the pearly cluster of minute air-bubbles that 

 adhere to his fur, and bespangle him all over. He 

 swims very rapidly, and, though he appears to dart, his 

 very nimble wriggle is clearly discernible." 



