ACCOUNT OF ANIMALS. 



423 



large, like those of an ass. The horns are flat, 

 and branch out only behind ; and are shed every 

 year. The feet resemble those of the deer, ex- 

 cepting as they are much longer and broader ; 

 and when it puts them on the ground, the hoofs 

 separate, two or three inches. The head is about 

 two feet long. The upper is much longer than 

 the under lip of this animal ; and the nostrils are 

 so wide, that a man might thrust his hand into 

 them, to a considerable distance. The colour of 

 the moose is a light grey, mixed with a deep red, 

 and the hair is so elastic, that its shape cannot be 

 altered by beating. The flesh of this animal is 

 exceedingly good food, it being easy of digestion, 

 and very nourishing, as well as very palatable. 

 The nose and the upper lip, w hich is large, and 

 loose from the gums, are esteemed a great delica- 

 cy ; it is of a consistence between marrow and 

 gristle, and when properly dressed, it is a rich and 

 luxurious dish. The hide of this animal makes 

 excellent leather, as it is thick and strong ; and 

 when dressed it is soft and pliable. The pace of 

 of the moose, is a walk or trot ; and it is exceed- 

 ed in swiftness, by few of its fellow tenants of the 

 forest. It will, with ease, trot over a fallen tree, 

 of five feet in diameter. This animal is common- 

 ly found in low grounds, where it feeds on moss, 

 and the buds of trees. The moose, generally, re- 

 mains alone ; though at sometimes five or six of 



