LEAVER. 
2/6 
in which is an express prohibition of using any ma- 
terials except beaver stuff or beaver ivool ; and the 
hats called demi-castors were forbidden to be made, 
unless for exportation. Since that time, the demand 
for furs has become so great, that the imports from 
America into the ports of London and Rochelle, of 
beaver skins alone, as far back as the year 1743, was. 
Into the port of London - 26,750 
Into Rochelle - - 127,080 
153,830 
It has been mentioned as a fact, that the beaver 
skins are most valuable when the wild natives of 
the country have lain upon them a considerable 
time ; for by this means the long hair falls off, and 
the down becomes compact and moist by transpira- 
tion, and consequently fitted to be manufactured. 
This sagacious animal is furnished with three 
implements well calculated for the purposes they 
are intended to fulfil. These are his teeth, his 
paws, and his tail. His teeth are strong, and 
deeply riveted into his jaws, with a strong and crook- 
ed root : with these he cuts, as well the wood with 
which he builds as that which furnishes him with 
his food. His fore feet resemble those of such ani- 
mals as hold what they eat in their paws ; as apes, 
for instance, and rats, and squirrels : with these feet 
he digs, softens, and works the clay, which we shall 
presently see become of great service to him. His 
hind feet are accommodated with membranes like 
