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carefully before they ftep upon the 

 ground, and if any of thefe Snakes are 

 feen, they either put out the fire with 

 water, if they have any within reach, as 

 is ufual, or elfe throw fome of the larg- 

 eft brands at a diftance, which the Snake 

 never fails to follow, either from the love 

 of heat, or fome innate propensity. 



The Woods Matter, as the Indian 

 name implies, is a fhort thick Snake, 

 about three feet in length, and five 

 inches in circumference. The tail, if it 

 may be fo called, is but little lefs than 

 the body, and ends bluntly. The colour 

 of the belly is of a dull yellowifh brown, 

 and that of the back is a dark brown, 

 chequered with black fpots. The head 

 and neck are wide and fiat, with long 

 loofe fcales, which are eredled at plea- 

 fure, and make a frightful appearance. 

 This Snake never flees from an enemy, 

 and its bite is univerfilly deemed fatal. 



Maccou- 



