What is my tail cut off? A roaring river.

Far in the ocean’s depths I fearless play;

Giver of sweetest sounds, yet mute forever.

[Answer]

296.

I’m a creature most active, most useful, most known,

Of the thousands who daily perambulate town.

Take from me one letter, and still you will see

I’m the same as I was; just the same, to a T.

Take two letters from me, take three, or take four,