The BOMBAY SQUIRREL.
The talk of the Hiſtorian or Naturaliſt is often ſurrounded with perplexities and difficulties; ſometimes, from the incertitude, the variation, and almoſt total diſſimilarity of his information; and ſometimes from the entire want of every information; for, of thoſe who are pleaſed with poſſeſſing a new or ſtrange animal, and will be at the trouble of tranſporting it from diſtant parts, few have abilities or inclination, to ſeek that knowledge which would ſatisfy a Zoologiſt in its habits and propenſities; and, perhaps, very few enjoy opportunities of acquiring certain intelligence.
With reſpect to the animal now before us, we acknowledge our want of certain information; all we can ſay is, that it was brought from India in one of the Company’s ſhips; it appeared to have all the motions and actions of a common Squirrel; and, as its ſize was larger, ſo its ſtrength was greater. The fine rich colouring of the fur gave it a very grave and majeſtic appearance. We are ſorry to add, that ſince this drawing was made the animal is dead.
The length of the body was 15 inches; the tail as long; the head longiſh and round; the ears tufted; the colour of the head and ears a fine deep brown; the ſhoulders, along the back, hams and tail, black; ſides a reddiſh purple; cheſt, fore feet, belly, and inſide of hind feet, a yellowiſh white. The end of the tail to this animal was not of an orange colour, as the one deſcribed by Mr. Pennant was.
