6o 
REIN DEER. 
Their only food at this season is the rein liver- 
wort, (lichen rangiferinus Linn.') which frequently 
lies buried several feet beneath the snow. We have 
already observed, that Providence has prepared for 
them a spade in their broad palmated antler, which 
never fails to effect their purpose. With this they 
dig to any depth, and thus arrive at their beloved 
food. 
About the middle of May the female brings forth 
her young, and continues to give milk for some 
months ; thus affording to her master a nourish- 
ment superior in richness to the milk of the cow. 
Their fondness for their young is remarkable, and 
does not cease till they have nearly acquired their 
full strength. The Laplander, who is often pos- 
sessed of large herds of these useful creatures, drives 
them every morning and evening to the cottage to 
be milked ; where a fire has previously been kindled, 
and the cottage filled with smoke, that the rein 
deer may be free from the tormenting gnats, and 
remain quiet while milking. When this is done, 
the herdsman returns them to their pasture ; where 
nature has so amply provided for the few wants of 
these animals, that the Laplander gives himself no 
concern about their sustenance. They make cheeses 
with the new milk : the whey, which remains after 
the curd is separated, they feed upon during the 
summer. It is said to be pleasant and well tasted, 
but not very nourishing. In this manner, says an 
interesting writer, the pastoral life is still continued 
near the pole ; neither the coldness of the winter. 
