The otter, although not so expert an architect as the beaver, appears to
possess more sagacity. A fine one, caught in Scotland, became so tame,
that whenever it was alarmed it would spring for protection into the
arms of its master.
It had also been taught to fish for his benefit; and so dexterous was it
at this sport, that it would catch several fine salmon during the day,
in a stream near his house. It could fish as well in salt water as in
fresh. Bravely it would buffet the waves of the ocean, and swim off in
chase of cod-fish, of which it would in a short time catch large
numbers.
When fatigued by its exertions, nothing would induce it to re-enter the
water. On such occasions it received a part of the produce of the sport
for its own share; and after having satisfied itself, it would fall
asleep, and was generally in that condition carried home, to resume its
labours on another day.
Though you may be very young and small, you may, if you try, help those
much older and bigger than yourself.