108 THE TOWER MENAGERIE. 
little in its general form and habits; its teeth are nearly 
similar; and its toes and nails closely correspond in num- 
ber and in their degree of retractility. But it is entirely 
destitute of the secretory pouch; and, in addition to its 
plantigrade walk, it exhibits a very peculiar structure in 
the tail. This organ is as long as the body, and flattened 
above and below; when extended, the further half is 
turned over so as to place its lower side uppermost, and 
the animal has it in its power to roll it up into a spire, 
commencing from above downwards, to the very base. 
The colour of the species varies in different lights: in 
general it may be described as grayish black, with a 
tinge of yellow. On this ground it is marked with one 
broad dorsal, and on each side two or three narrower, 
indistinct black lines. The under jaw, the legs, and the 
greater part of the tail are entirely black; and there is a 
whitish spot above and under each of its eyes. 
India and the larger Asiatic Islands appear to be its 
native country; but nothing certain is known of its 
habits in a state of nature: in captivity it is sullen and 
irascible, and evinces no affection for its keeper, appear- 
ing in fact totally insensible to the attentions which it 
receives. 
