Combat between Muskrat and Mink Rye Beach, N. H. 89 1872 July 25, 26 July 25 Clear and pleasant with W. wind; saw only one S. flaps during the day. For the afternoon started off into the woods with Dart and had with luck to strike a covey of young brown marsh grouse with which I had excellent sport, killing five in nine shots, the first three including the old hen consecutively; old Dart behind splendidly making five good points. Shot also a misting of Y. platanus in singularly speckled attire, and found to be one after one of the pleasantest afternoon's sport that I ever experienced. 26 Cloudy and hazy hard work all day; wind strong S.E. About 2 P.M. a heavy flight of birds commenced which lasted till dark. M. griseus flew in flocks of eight or ten, the interval between advent of each flock averaging about two minutes; sometimes single birds came through in company with the Peeps which flew in large flocks. Reg. psittaculatus in companies of eight or ten almost invariably accompanied by the Peeps and occasionally by one or two S. melodius were constantly passing overhead. The Snipe came through the marsh against the wind flying low down with extended front, and very rapidly. Although I think I interrupted was also seen and only one S. flaps. Although I had no dierg but I bagged 26 Snipes 4 Yellow Leg. While watching a Muskrat that was swimming near the bank in the creek I was much surprised to see a large mink come bounding along the water's edge and stopping only to gather himself for a spring. He hit directly on the poor rat's back and fastened himself to his throat; a furious