Should the prey not be killed by the blow of the tail, it is flung right into the jaws of the monster, where it is sure to be despatched in a trice." "But, brother," inquired Basil, "why do the alligators eat stones and such substances?
I have seen one that was opened, and his stomach was nearly quarter full of stones as big as my fist, and pieces of sticks and glass.

They looked as if they had been there a long time, for the sharp edges were worn off.

This I never could understand." "No wonder, for wiser naturalists than we do not know the reason of this.

Some think it is upon the same principle, and for the same reason, that birds and other creatures swallow gravel and earth--to assist the process of digestion.

Others have affirmed that it is for the purpose of distending the stomach, so as to enable the reptile to bear his long fast while torpid during the winter.