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113 
of elder, both abundant in the corners of our fences^ and 
much resembling each other : the second species (S. Cana- 
densis) is called the late elder. These plants multiply and 
spread rapidly ; and in some of the agricultural publications 
of the neighbouring States, I have seen complaints of them 
as pernicious weeds,, with inquiries for the best modes of ex- 
tirpating them. 
C — There is a snake crossing the road. Are there many 
species of snakes found in this country ? 
F. — I have never seen any but this species, the common 
Chequered Snake^ (Coluber ?) but it is possible there 
may be more. 
C. — Is it venomous ? 
F, — No, perfectly harmless ; as I have proved by exam- 
ining the mouth : all venomous serpents have two or more 
large curved fangs in the upper jaw^ which are wanting in 
harmless ones. In general it may be said that innocent 
serpents have four rows of teeth in the upper jaw ; two on 
the palate, and one on each side : but that poisonous ser- 
pents have no other outward or side-teeth but the fangs." 
When attacked, this snake, like many other harmless kinds^ 
rears itself up in a threatening attitude, dilates its body, 
brightens its colours, and darts in and out and vibrates its 
red forked tongue : this organ, called by the vulgar its 
sting," and supposed to be the weapon of offence, is consi- 
dered an undoubted token of its venomous nature. But in 
reality, all these motions are but menaces ; there is no power 
to do hurt, though they no doubt often serve as a protec- 
tion. In common with the whole serpent race, it is the 
object of universal enmity : every person seems to consider it 
a sort of duty to kill snakes whenever they can be met 
with, perhaps in consequence of the curse entailed on the 
serpent that beguiled Eve. 
