114 
SNAKE. 
not distinguish, their attacks. They soon re-ap- 
peared on the surface, twisted together as in their 
first onset ; but the black snake seemed to retain its 
wonted superiority ; for its head was exactly fixed 
above that of the other, which it incessantly pressed 
down under the water, until it was stifled, and 
sunk. The victor no sooner perceived its enemy 
incapable of further resistance, than, abandoning it 
to the current, it returned to the shore and dis- 
appeared.” 
