has a bill like a duck, and paws webbed similar to that bird, but legs
and body like those of a quadruped, covered with thick, coarse hair,
with a broad tail to steer by. It abounds in the rivers of New Holland,
and may be seen bobbing to the top every now and then, to breathe, like
a seal, then diving again in quest of its prey. It is believed to lay
eggs, as a nest with eggs in it of a peculiar appearance was some time
ago found. It bears a claw on the inside of its foot, having a tube
therein, through which it emits a poisonous fluid into the wounds which
the claw inflicts; as, when assailed, it strikes its paws together, and
fastens upon its enemy like a crab.--_Cunningham's New South
Wales._


_Sheep_

Are bred to an immense extent in New South Wales. In 1813, the number of
sheep in the colony amounted to 6,514; in 1821, to 119,777. The
exportation of wool to England during the last year exceeded a million
of pounds, and at the same rate of increase, in 1840, will reach to
between 30 and 40 millions of pounds. Bullocks are recommended for
draught in preference to horses, and the speed of a well-taught, lively,
strong bullock is little short of that of a horse.--_Ibid._


_Garden Rhubarb._

To force garden rhubarb, sow the seed on a rich moist border in the
beginning of April. Thin the young plants during the summer; in the end
of October, carefully transplant them into forcing-pots, five or six in
each pot. Place them in a northern aspect, to recover the effect of