THE STOAT. 197 



our reach. It is doubtless partly intended to provide 

 for the animal's safety, by an approach to the colour of 

 the earth's clothing in winter. But it is also evident 

 that the radiation, or passing off, of heat is much greater 

 from dark than light coloured surfaces, and therefore 

 that the animal heat from within is more fully retained 

 by a white than a dark covering. The temperature of 

 an animal having white fur, consequently continues 

 more equable than that of one clothed in darker colours, 

 though the latter will enjoy a greater degree of warmth 

 whilst exposed to the rays of the sun. How beautiful 

 then is the Divine arrangement, by which, when it is 

 cold enough to prove hurtful, if not fatal to the animal, 

 this very change of temperature is made to produce 

 such an alteration in its condition, as shall effectually 

 prevent the suffering of injury ! Here it is manifest, as 

 it is in other numberless instances, "that the Lord is 

 good, and his tender mercies are over all his works." 



