Part 48 (1/1)

Its head is small, and its movements very rapid. At the slightest noise, it darts away in a moment, and hides among rocks, stones, or rank gra.s.s.

It is said to have no eyes, but this is a popular mistake--hence, however, its name, _Blind Worm_. This beautiful timid creature is often wantonly cut into pieces by its cruel and mistaken captors, for they credit it with the possession of evil propensities. It is said that, could it see, it would be a formidable enemy to man and beast. This supposition has found strength and sanction in doggerel verse. The Blind Worm is said to address the adder as follows:--

If I could see, As well as thee, Man nor beast Should ne'er pa.s.s me.

Another version of these lines, heard in Shrops.h.i.+re, on the borders of Wales, is:--

If I had one eye, As thou hast two, No man should live, Nor beast should loo (low).

These doggerel lines indicate clearly the dread in which this innocent snake is held.