RATTLE SXAKE. 
are the biggest and most numerous, and sup- 
posed to be the m.ost venomous and vindiclive, 
after observing that they not only kill the 
largest animals in a few minutes, but turn the 
whole body into corruption, immediately adds^ 
" vet such is the nature of this dreadful rep- 
tile, that it cannot run or creep faster than a 
man or child can walk.'^ 
Most authors have ascribed to the Rattle 
Snake, the power of charming it's prey into 
it's mouth; which some, however, fiatlv de- 
ny. The inhabitants of Am.erica, are said to 
have opportunities of observing this fascination 
every day i this Snake being often seen bask- 
ing at the foot of some tree where birds and 
squirrels take up their residence ;. there, coiled 
on it'^s tail, with it's jaws extended, and it's 
eyes gleaming like fire, It levels it's dreadful 
glance at one of the animals above. The lit- 
tle vi6lim too plainly perceives the meditated 
mischief, and hops from branch to branch witli 
a timorous, plaintive sound, wishing to avoid 
the enemy, yet incapable of breaking through 
the charm : thus it continues, for some time, 
it's feeble efforts and complaints, but is still 
seen 
