FURS.
Fourrure, . . Fn. I Pelo, pia , SP.
Fell, pelz, . . . GER. Kyftrk, . . . . TURK. I'elle, pellicia, . . . Ir.
Furs are the skins of different animals with tho inner side converted into a sort of leather, and the outer fine hair left. Previously to their under going this process, furs are termed peltry. The fur of the flying squirrel (Pteromys petauriata) is of such a very fine description, that it would excite much interest in Europe. The beautiful furs from Lhassa and Digurchee, in Tibet, are mostly obtainable in Khatmandu. These two largo cities are great fur depots ; they are only forty marches from Khatmandu.
A very large portion of the Russian fur trade is derived from this part of Tibet, and certainly by far the most valuable furs are obtained there. Some of the most beautiful dresses made of furs are brought by the native merchants from these cities ; and a fur cloak with thick silk lining was purchased from one of them for 150 Morce rupees, in English money little more than ten pouncle. About the beginning of the 19th century, the fur trade with China amounted to upwards of a million of dollars annually. The peltry of tho American forests command good prices in the European markets. The amount carried into China over the northern frontier is, however, still considerable, though no account of the number can be obtained. Lamb-skins of various sorts aro
much used in the northern parts of the country.
The value of the exports of furs from British India to all parts in the year 1857-58, was 15553; next year, £4198; in 1859-60, £9603; and in 1860-61, 18216. Of tho better known furs tnay bo men tioned those of the— Ermine, /tlustcla erminra, sometimes called the weasel or ermine weasel, also tho stoat in summer and ermine in winter. It is found in the cold regions of Europe and Asia.. Mertes abietum is the pine marten of Europe.
The sable, Itluatela zibellina, a native of Siberia, also the Aleutian Islands, and Thibet.
Pine marten, Mustela martes, and Mertes toufiens. Pennant's marten, Mustela Pennantii.
The mink, Mustela lutreola.
Beaver, Castor fiber.
Nutria of Brazil, Itlyopotamus Bonarietusis.
Black or silver fez, Canis argentatus.
Arctic fox, C. lagopus.
Musk-rat, Fiber zibethicua.
Sea otter, Lutra marina.
American otter, Lutra Braziliensis.
—31orrison's Compendious Summary; Sir I?. 31on gomery's 7'rade of the Paufab.