202 BRITISH QUADRUPEDS. 



general retreat is the hollow in the upper part of some 

 decayed tree. They prefer the place chosen for the 

 nest of a squirrel, and having killed the inhabitant, the 

 new tenant enlarges it, and lines it with softer mate- 

 rials. Though ferocious in disposition, these creatures 

 are easily tamed. Gesner kept a pine marten, which 

 used to go to the houses of the neighbours, but always 

 returned home when wanting food. It was very fond 

 of a dog with which it had been bred up, and would 

 play with it as cats do, lying on its back, and pretend- 

 ing to bite. 



Buffon also had one which, though it had lost its fero- 

 city, did not discover any marks of attachment, and 

 continued so wild as to require being chained. It, 

 however, frequently escaped from its confinement. At 

 first, after being absent some hours, it returned, but 

 without seeming pleased ; the time of remaining away 

 gradually increased, and at last it took its final depar- 

 ture. 



In some countries the marten is eagerly pursued, 

 from its skin being valued for the fur ; it is in 

 great request for lining and trimming the robes of 

 magistrates, as well as for other purposes. It is 

 particularly admired in Turkey, into which it is 

 imported, chiefly from Sicily and France. A large 



