Crass I. DP +-Oi SE, 4E, 
exhibit a moft ftriking proof of the fitnefs of their 
contrivance. 
The breadth, ftreneth, and fhortnefs of the fore- 
feet, which are inclined fideways, anfwer the ufe as 
well as form of hands; to fcoop out the earth, to 
form its habitation, or to purfue its prey. Had 
they been longer, the falling in of the earth would 
have prevented the quick repetition of its ftrokes in 
working, or have impeded its courfe: the oblique 
pofition of the fore-feet, has alfo this advantage, 
that it flings all the loofe foil behind the animal. 
The form of the body is not lefs admirably con- 
trived for its way of life: the fore part is thick 
and very mufcular, giving great ftreneth to the 
action of the fore-feet,; enabling it to dig its way 
with amazing force and rapidity, either to purfue its 
prey, or elude the fearch of the moft adtive enemy. 
The form of its hind parts, which are {mall and 
taper, enables it to pafs with great facility through 
the earth, that the fore-feet had flung behind; for 
had each part of the body been of equal thicknefs, 
its flight would have been impeded, and its fecurity © 
precarious. 
The fkin is moft exceffively compact, and fo tough 
as not to be cut but by a very fharp knife: the hair 
is very fhort, and clofe fet, and fofter than the fineft 
filk : the ufual color is black ; not but that there are 
inftances of thefe animals being fpotted*, and a 
* Edw, 268, 
creme 
129 
