340 
MAN ATI. 
Bering’s island, had many opportunities of remark- 
ing these creatures, and says that a large one will 
weigh eight thousand pounds. They frequent the 
shallow and sandy parts of the shores of Bering’s 
and other islands, and go in herds ; the old ones 
driving their young before them, and some keeping 
on their sides to defend them from harm. Their 
affection for their young, though very great, seems 
to be equalled by their attachment to one another. 
We are assured that when one is hooked the whole 
herd will attempt its rescue ; some will strive to 
overset the boat, by going beneath it ; others will 
throw themselves upon the rope to which the hook 
is attached, and vainly attempt to break it ; while 
many will use every effort to force the instrument 
out of their wounded companion. The poor creature 
suffers much before it can be landed, as it makes all 
possible resistance, and clings so firmly to the rocks, 
that the people on shore who have the end of the 
rope are obliged to exert all their force to detach 
it : the skin of the feet is frequently left sticking to 
the rock, and large pieces often fly off before it can 
be dragged to land. These animals have no voice, but 
sigh deeply when wounded. 
Their great conjugal affection is thus noticed by 
Mr. Pennant : “ A male, after using all its endea- 
vours to release its mate which had been struck, 
pursued it to the very edge of the water ; no blows 
could force it away. As long as the deceased fe- 
male continued in the water, he persisted in his 
attendance ; and even for three days after she was 
