the skull.

The entire neck may be molded in connection with the head if desired.
Gelatine and compositions of glue and wax are used for molds where fine
definition is desirable, and wax as well as plaster and paper for making
casts. The ground up paper pulp is used for many casts, pressing it into
mold with fingers and spatulas.

Clay is the stand-by of the taxidermist modeller. That furnished by art
dealers is best, but for common use potter's clay is all that is
necessary. A little glue mixed in plaster delays its setting and makes
it harder when dry. Good papier mache is one of the best materials for
much modelling and wax for very fine work. Tools for this work may be
purchased or home made of wood, bone or metal.

Many forms of fishes and reptiles are difficult or impossible to mount
by ordinary methods. On these the caster and modeller may work his will,
and if he also possesses a good eye for color the results may be of the
best. As an indisputable record of anatomy even a poor cast is valuable.

CHAPTER XXIX.

MARKET TROPHY HUNTING.

In this country and day of conservation this would seem like a delicate
subject to attack. The hunter for the trophy market a few years back was
slaying elk, mountain sheep, moose, deer, or antelope indiscriminately.

[Illustration: DEER FOOT INK WELL AND PEN RACK.]

While modern game laws have changed or at least modified this I can see
no reason why a hunter who is entitled to a certain head of game per
season should not utilize them fully by preparation and sale to others
who have not similar opportunities.

[Illustration: MOUNTAIN LION OR PUMA HIDE.]

What would often be left in the woods as useless, as indeed it would be
for food purposes, is transformed into a beautiful and decorative
article of considerable commercial value. Often things being equal the
trophy hunter will avoid killing young and female game animals on
account of the worthlessness of their heads as trophy if not for any
ethical reason.

While the day of trophy hunting as a business in the United States is
past probably, by preserving such heads, horns, feet and skins as come
in his way the trapper, prospector and settler can often add
considerably to his income. For instance, from one to five deer may be
legally killed in different states. If two good heads are taken, worth
say $15.00 and $20.00 each when prepared, that sum would go far towards
paying the expenses of an enjoyable outing.