When the tree is down, they gnaw off all the branches in the same way, and then cut the trunk into short pieces, and roll them down to the water’s edge. Then they go to work at another tree, and still another, until they have cut down all they want. These logs of wood, kept in their places by mud and stones, make a dam, and this dam stops the water and causes it to rise around their houses and cover the openings which are at the bottom, and helps to keep them safe from danger.
Then the houses are built of mud, stones, sticks, and small branches twined in and out to keep them fast. These houses are several feet high and are very thick. There are two rooms in them, one at the bottom, under water, which they use for a store-room, and the other, at the top, above the water, for a living-room. The floor of this room is covered with soft moss.
But these wise beavers know that they must have a store of food for the winter, as well as a snug little house to live in. They gather logs of wood and branches, and put them away in their store-room. The bark of these logs and some water plants supply them with food. When they are “at home” during the winter months in their “beaver town,” they always have a sentinel to keep watch, and if any one comes near, he gives the alarm by striking the water with his broad, flat tail.
There are no idle beavers. They not only work hard, but with great skill and care.
Phrase Exercise.
1. Useful lessons.—2. Where they are common.—3. The blade of an oar.—4. Social animals.—5. Usually go in parties.—6. Right across the stream.—7. If it is still straight.—8. Stops the water.—9. Twined in and out.—10. For a living-room.—11. A store of food.—12. He gives the alarm.—13. Supply them with food.—14. They have a sentinel to keep watch.—15. Work with great skill and care.
XL.—THE ANGEL’S WHISPER.
Samuel Lover.