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THE

MAGAZINE OF NATURAL HISTORY,

JOURNAL

OF

ZOOLOGY^ BOTANY, MINERALOGY, GEOLOGY,
AND METEOROLOGY.

CONDUCTED

By J. C. LOUDON, RL.S. G.S. &c.

MEMBER OF THE ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF LONDOK, AND OF VARIOUS
NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETIES ON THE CONTINENT.

VOL. 11.

LONDON:

PRINTED FOR LONGMAN, REES, ORME, BROWN, AND GREEN,

PATERNOSTER-ROW.

1829.

London :

Printed by A. & R. Spottiswoodc,

New-Street. Square.

PREFACE,

This Second Volume of the Magazine of Natural History will,
it is hoped, not be found deficient in that increase of interest and
general improvement, which may reasonably have been expected
from the progressive experience of the Conductor, and from a
continually increasing correspondence.

The grand object with which we set out, that of promoting a
taste for Natural History among general readers, and especially
among young persons, has been steadily kept in view. The In-
troductions to Zoology, p. 128.; to Conchology, p. 22. and 148.;
to Botany, p. 155.; to Geology, p. 26. ; and to Meteorology,
p. 177., have been continued; and in our Third Volume these
Introductions will, for the most part, be completed. The other
Original Communications, and the Collectanea, embrace every
department of Natural History ; and the Miscellaneous Intelli-
gence reports its progress in every part of the world, but more
especially in Britain. Throughout the work the subjects are
treated with sufficient technicalities for the purposes of scientific
accuracy ; but at the same time so as rather to invite the stranger
to these studies, than to deter him from them. As the taste of
our young readers becomes more refined and critical, it will de-
mand articles more rigidly technical and profound, and we shall
not then be wanting in affording a supply. In the mean time, our
correspondents may regard themselves as cooperating in a Maga-
zine of their own, for the improvement of one another, as well as
for the benefit of the public. To those who are impressed with the
importance of Natural History, as a means of educating the feel-
ings and the heart, it must be satisfactory to know, that this
science is spreading among all classes, and that Natural History
Societies, Museums, and Libraries (we wish we could add Public
Botanic Gardens) are formed, or are forming, in many of our
provincial towns. By reference to our article. Natural History
in the English Counties, p. 87. 197. 266. 383. and 473., a great
variety of very interesting details will be found on this part of the
subject. We hope the time may not be far distant when a mu-
seum, a library, a botanic garden, and a school institution will be

A 2

IV PREFACE.

formed in every parish. * Finding it impracticable to present a
satisfactory general summary of the progress of Natural History
throughout Europe, for the past year, we have given the best sub-
stitute for such a summary, an abridged translation of the Baron
Cuvier's Report for France, p. 409.

The great use of Natural History and Comparative Anatomy is
to humanise and soften the heart. If boys were acquainted with
the wonderful structure of insects, and of other animals low in the
scale, they would not be found sticking pins into flies, or torment-
ing cats ; nor, when men, would they treat those noble domestic
animals, the horse and the ox, with cruelty. The girl who has
learned to derive enjoyment from observing the operations and
watching the metamorphoses of insects, who knows their history,
and is conversant with their structure, habits, and curious eco-
nomy, will mark these circumstances in animals higher in the
scale ; and, ascending to her own species, will learn also the
elevation of her own nature. As she grows up to womanhood,
she will feel more intensely the delicacy and dignity of the
feminine character, and resist with more force the temptations
which always beset innocence, amiability, and inexperience, both
from without and from within. The mind rationally occupied
with the study of nature, will no longer seek refuge from ennui
in bad novels ; and the same superior taste for information, and
the same admiration of the wisdom of Nature, as displayed in her
works, will lead to a more select choice of companions, male as
well as female.

To procure the advantages resulting from the knowledge of
Natural History, at the easiest rate of labour, recourse must be had
to scientific study, which is to the acquirement of knowledge what
machinery is to the production of manufactures. To render this
machinery available to every reader, and especially to young per-
sons, without the aid of a teacher, is the principal object of the
Magazine of Natural History ; in conducting which we have only
to assure our readers, that the most unremitting exertion on our
part will be continued, in order to secure success, and to procure
for the work the honourable reputation of having given an impulse
to the mind of the country in matters of Natural Science.

J. C. L.

Bay&watery Oct. 25. 1829.

* See " Parochial Institutions; or, Outline of a Plan for a National Education
Establishment," &c., in the Gardener s Mngawie for December.

CONTENTS.

Part I. ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS.

GENERAL SUBJECT.

An Account of Mr. Needham's original Dis-
covery of the Action of the Pollen of Plants ;
with Observations on the supposed Existence
of active Molecules in Mineral Substances. By
Robert Bakewell, Esq. - -1

On certain Effects produced by Fresh Water on
some Marine Animals and Plants. Read to
the Belfast Natural History Society, by the
President, James L. Drummond, M.D., De-
cember 30. 1826 - - - 121

Indications of Spring. By Robert Marsham,
Esq., and Lord Suffield. Communicated by
R. C.Taylor, Esq. F.G.S. - . 127

Farther Observations on the Influence of Fresh
Water on Marine Animals. By Lieut. J. H.
Davies, R.M. Communicated by James L.
Drummond, M.D., President of the Belfast
Natural History Society - - 217

Some Account of the Life, Genius, and Per-
sonal Habits of the late Thomas Bewick, the
celebrated Artist and Engraver on Wood.
By his Friend John F. M. Dovaston, Esq.
A.M., of Westfelton, near Shrewsbury 313. 428

A Dissertation on the Ancient Hebrew Names
of Animals. By Mr. Archibald Gorrie, Annat
Gardens, Perthshire - - - 319

On the Red Snow of the Arctic Regions. By
Thomas Nicholson, Esq. - - 321

Some Account of the Progress of Natural His-
tory, during the Year 1828, as reported to the
Academy of Sciences at Paris by the Baron
Cuvier. By Mrs. Bowdich . .409

Account of an Ascent and Barometrical Mea-
surement of Wha-ra-rai, a Mountain in the
Island of Owhyhee ; extracted from the MS,
Journal of Archibald Menzies, Esq. F.L.S.
Communicated by Mr. Menzies - . 435

ZOOLOGY.

Anecdotes of a Diana Monkey. By Mrs. Bow-
dich - - - - 9

On riding on the Back of a Crocodile. By J. H.
P. H .13

On the Arrival and Retreat of the British Hi.
rundines, with a Table of Arrivals and De-
partures, from 1800 to 1828. By the Rev.
W. T. Bree, M.A. . - . 16

An Outline and Description of Centrbtus Ben.
netii and Hardwickw. By the Rev. William
Kirby, M.A. F.R.S. F.L.S. &c. . - 20

The Natural History of Molluscous Animals.
In a Series of Letters. By G. J. - 22. 148

The Cuvierian, or Natural, System of Zoology.
— Essay 3. The Characters of Vertebrated
Animals, and theirDivision into Four Classes;
Mammiferous Animals, Birds, Reptiles, and
Fishes. Distinctive Characters of each Class.
By B. . . . - . 128

Observations on a preternatural Growth of the
Incisor Teeth, occasionally observed in cer-
tain of the Mammalia rod^ntia. By the Rev.
Leonard Jenyns, F.L.S. - - 134

On the Kath of the Ancient Hebrews, con-
sidered as the Pelican of the Moderns. By
David Scot, M.D. M.W.S. F.H.S.E. - 137

Descriptive and Historical Notices of British
Snipes. By H. V. D. - - - 143

Notice of an Imposture entitled a Pygmy Bison,
or American Ox. By V. . - 218

Some Account of the Water-Shrew : a Mouse
supposed to have been lost for about a Cen-
tury. By John F. M. Dovaston, Esq. A.M.
Oxon., of Westfelton, near Shrewsbury 219

Remarks on the Nature and Habits of the
Bearded Titmouse (Phrus bi^rmicus). By a
Lover of Nature - . - 222

On the White Butterflies of Britain. By J.
Rennie, Esq. A.M. A.L.S.

On the Wheat Fly. By Mr. Archibald Gorrie,
C.M.H.S., &c. . . . . 3^■23

Contributions towards theNatural History of the
Dodo (Didus in^ptus Linn), a Bird which ap.
pears to have become extinct towards the
End of the Seventeenth or Beginning of the
Eighteenth Century. By John V. Thompson,
Esq. F.L.S. . . . .442

Some Account of the Wheat Fly. By Mr. Pa.
trick ShirrefF, Farmer, Mungoswells, East
Lothian - . ... - 448

BOTANY.

An Introductory View of the Linnean System
of Plants. By Miss Kent, Authoress of Flora
Dom4stica, Sylvan Sketches, &c. - - \55

On the Natural History of Vegetables. By
Mentor . . - - . 165

On some Phenomena attending SpheeVia/raxi-
nea. By Electricus . . - 171

Some Account of a remarkable Spruce Fir Tree
in the Woods at Braco Castle, Perthshire.
By Mr. Archibald Gorrie, C.M.H.S. - 173

Notice respecting an Oak Tree struck by Light-
ning. By the Rev. T. W. S. - - 230

On Vessels made of the Papyrus. By John
Hogg, Esq. M.A. F.L.S. &c. . - 324

GEOLOGY.

An Attempt to form a Table of the Geological
Arrangement of British Fossil Shells. By
R. C. Taylor, Esq. F.G.S. - . 26

An Account of a new Species of Trilobite, found
in the Barr Limestone in the Neighbourhood
of Birmingham. By Frederick Jukes, Esq.
With a Note by J. D. C. Sowerby, Esq. . 41

Notice of some Fragments of Orth6ceras annu.
laris and striata, found in the Barr Limestone
in Warwickshire. By Frederick Jukes, Esq.
With a Note by J. D. C. Sowerby, Esq. F.L.S.

231

On the Anatomy of the Ventriculites of Man-
tel. By C. B. Rose, Esq., SwafFham - 332

METEOROLOGY.

Of Winds, and the Causes of their different
Kinds. By James Main, Esq. A.L.S. . 175

On *ie Art of deriving Interest from the Study
of the Weather. By Mr. A. Gorrie, C.M.H.S.

177

VI

CONTENTS.

Part II. REVIEWS.

A brief Account of Microscopical Observations
made in the Months of June, July, and Au-
gust, 1827, on the Particles contained in the
Pollen of Plants ; and on the general Exist-
ence of active Molecules in organic and inor-
ganic Bodies. By Robert Brown, Esq. F.R.S.
&c. {Not published.) - - - 46

The Journal of a Naturalist - -180

A Flora of Berwick upon Tweed. By George

Johnston, M.D. &c. Vol. I. — Phaanogamous
Plants. Berwick. 8vo. 1829 - - 234

Picture of Organised Nature, in its spreading
over the Earth. By Wilbrand and Ritsen 342

Catalogue of Works on Natural History, lately
published, with some Notice of those con-
sidered the most interesting to British Natu-
ralists . - 49. 188. 238. 55% 452

Literary Notices - 61. 193. 241. 366, 454

Part III. COLLECTANEA.

The General Subject

Zoology

Botany

- 242.455

- 62. 242. 456

- 70. 245. 462

Geology and Mineralogy
Meteorology

- 71. 246. 465
- 248.468

Part IV. MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

ural History in Foreign Countries :

France

- 74. 194. 249. 469

Germany

- 79.250.470

Holland and the Netherlands 81. 251. 472

Switzerland

- 251

Italy

- 367

Spain

- - 367

Russia

- 252

Sweden

- 367.472

Denmark

- 472

Asia

- 252. 368. 473

North America

- 253. S69

South America

- 81.254.370

West Indies

- 371

Natural History in London - 82. 196. 254. 37 1

Zoological Society - . . 372

Linnean Society .. - - 373

Geological Society ■ - - 376

Natural History in the English Counties ;

Middlesex - . - 87. 266. 473

Surrey - -^ . . 266

Kent . . - 197. 383

- 386

- 386
- 88.267.386

Hertfordshire

Huntingdonshire

Cambridgeshire

Gloucestershire

Worcestershire , -

Herefordshire

Warwickshire

Northamptonshire

Yorkshire

Northumberland

Lancashire - -

Westmoreland

Cumberland

Hampshire

Dorsetshire

Somersetshire

Devonshire
Natural History in North Wales
Natural History in Scotland
Natural History in Ireland
Perennial Calendar
Indicatorial Calendar
Calendar of Nature
Microscopic Amusement, as a M

eating the Feelings
Hints for Improvements
Queries and Answers - 100. 205.
Retrospective Criticism 110. 212.
Biography . . .

Obituary

- 387

- 268
. 387

- 387

- 269.474

- 270.387

88. 273. 389

- 89

- 89.275

- 276

- - 477

- 277.391

- 278

89. 287

90. 282 392

91. 202. 394

- 92

- 99

203.283.477

eans of edu-

286

- 286.395

288. 401. 484

298. 396. 483

- 305

- 120. 310

LISTS OF ENGRAVINGS AND CONTRIBUTORS.

VU

LIST OF ENGRAVINGS.

QUADRUPEDS

No.

Page

3. Diana monkey

- 10

53. Bison

- 219

BIRDS.

21. Strange water bird

- 101

22. Variety of the moor buzzard

- 102

32. The woodcock

- 146

34. The solitary snipe

- 147

36. The common snipe

. 147

38. Jack snipe - - -

- 148

54. Bearded titmouse

- 222

107. Dodo -

- 443

FISH. •

IR'Physfeter catbdon

- 477

REPTILE.

109. New species of British snake

- 458

INSECTS.

5, 6. Centrotuses

. 21

14. Brown-tail moth

- 66

15,16. Wood-leopard moth

- 67

17. Phalze^na pavbnia

- 68

55 to 65. White butterflies of Britain 226 to 229

73. Larva of the crab

- 245

77. Mole cricket

- 290

78. Remarkable spider

,. 291

79. Zeuzdra tp'sculi

- 291

105. Scolop^ndra el^ctrica

- 406

110. Death's-head hawk moth

- 460

MOLLUSCA.

7. Hfelix hort^nsis, TerMo navMis, and

Aph:^sia depilans - - - 23

29. Star fish - ... 115

41. Zoligo vulgaris - - - 153

SHELLS.

40. BWimus actitus and Hfelix virgkta 150, 303
80. Lymnae'^a ovkta - . - 292

112. Mfa margaritifera - . 461

ZOOPHYTE.
S8. Pentacrlnus europse^us - -114

TREES AND SHRUBS.

No. Page

20. Cork tree - - - 91

49. Spruce fir tree - - - 174

66. Oak tree struck by lightning . 230
117. Grevilleo punicea - - 486

HERBACEOUS PLANTS.

18. £pip&ctis latifblia . - 70

81. Pinguicula vulgaris - - 293

CRYPTOGAMOUS PLANT.

47, 48. Sphse'^ria /raxinea - 171, 172

FOSSILS.

8, 9, 10, 11, 12. New species of trilobltes 42, 43

19. ^stferia - - - - 73
24, 25, 26. 118. Coal fossils 106, 107. 487
27. A'saphus Debxichw - - 109

67, 68. Orth6ceras annulJlris and striata - 232

82, 83. Blackdown fossils . - 295, 296

84. Minute objects on flints - - 296

85. Fossil like a broken nut - - 297
93 to 101. Ventriculites of Mantel 335 to 339

IMPLEMENT.

74. Geological hammer - - 247

DIAGRAMS, &c.

1 and 2. Pollen of the mallow . . 4

4. Riding a crocodile - - - 13

13. Geological tract - - - 44

23. Nidus on a rush - - 104

30. The four classes of vertebrated animals 132

31. Preternatural growth of incisor teeth 135
33, 35, 31, 39. Cseca of snipes 146, 147, 148
42, 43, 44. Forms of leaves 156, 157, 158
45, 46. The name of a plant discovered 161, 163
51, 52. Terminology of birds - , 214, 215
69. Bill of the nuthatch - - 243
70,71,72. Developement of spider's eggs 244
75, 76. 1 15, 116. Meteorological diagrams 283,

284.478.481

86. A deformed tarsus - - 302
88 to 92. Vessels of the papyrus 325 to 329

102 to 104. Picture of organised nature 343 to 345
106. Supposed Conferva - - 407

117. Optical phenomenon explained - 488

113, Root of an alder tree - - '^

108. Foot of a large bird - .444

LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS.

A. B., Aberdeen

A Constant Reader

A Constant Reader, Winburne

A. C. R. - - . 205.

A. G. . . . 205. 285.

Ainsworth, William, M.R.C.S.E. -

A Lover of Nature

A. N.

An Admirer of Buckland
A Young Conchologist

B. _ . . .
Babington, C. C.
Bakewell, Robert
B. C. .

B., Coventry . . Ill,

B. D., Wrexham

Blackwall, John, F.L.S. . 118

Blomer, Capt. Charles
Bowdich, Mrs. - - 9i 62

Page 65

404,473

- 477

207.394

292. 480

- 483

. 222

-484

- 109

- 102

128. 361

- 68

1.214

- 483

302. 486

- 110

275. 398

278. 303

116. 409

Bowman, J. E., F.L.S.
Bree, the Rev. W. T., M. A.

213. 243,
Brew, C. A. -
Brown, John -
B., St. Helen's
Cacale

C. B., London
Clarke, W.B. .
Dovaston, John F. M., A.M.
Drummond, James L, M.D.,

fast Nat. Hist. Soc.

D. S. .

D. S., Bungay
DuncaA J. S. -

E. .

E. K., . - 287

Electricus

E.T. -

- 106.245.408

16. 66. 69. 71. 87.

298. 304. 460. 488

. 65

- 291
107, 424

- 302

- 103
. 247

219.313.400.401

Pres. of the Bel.

91. 121. 217. 305

. 216

. 462

- 376
. 245.362

293. 294. 406. 455
. 171

Vlll

LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS.

E. W. B,

- 399

Mearns, John, F.H.S. - - 488

F.

. - 206

Mentor - - . 64.165

Farrar, W., M.D.

- 484

Menzies, Archibald, F.L.S. &c. - - 435

F. C. L.

- 293

Muphatamet - . - ' - 108

Ferme, J. -

. 105

Murray, J, F.L.S. G.S. &c. 64, 65. 70. 190. 289.

G. B. K. -

.290

300

G. H.

- 484

N. - . . - - 452

G. H., Clapton

- 210

Nicholson, Thomas - - - 321

G. I. -

. . - 22. 293

Obscurus - - - -403

Gibbs, Humphrey

- 106

Palmer, the Rev. S. - - 212. 266. 276
Perry, W. G. - - . - 269
P. H. . . - . 101. 267

G. J. • ^ .

148. 402

G. M., Lynn Regis

82. 103. 110. 119

Gorrie, A., C.M.H.&

97.173.177.319.323

P. S. - . . . .293

Greaves, Charles

- 106

P. S., Berwickshire . . .484

Gunt, H.

- 405

P.T. - . - . .110

H.-

-466

R. A., Bridgewater . . .206

Hamilton, W., M.D.

- . 265

R.C.T. . - 108,109.268.295,296

Hawkins, Thomas

- 207. 210. 211

Rennie, J., A.M. A.L.S. - 224. 4.57

H., Bicester -

. 102

R. G. - . . . 265

H. D., Richmond

209. 211

R. J. . . . - 459

Heysham, T. C.

- 110

Rose, C. B. . . - .332

Hill, Walter Henry, 64. 100. 105. 210. 387. 403.

R.S. - . . - 119.298

404

Rusticus in Urbe - - 65.396

Hogg, John, M.A. F.L.S.

. 324

Salmon, the Rev. J. D. - - . 205

Hoy, J. D.

. 88

Scot, the Rev. David, M.D. M.W.S. F.H.S.E.

Hunter, Perceval

198. 208. 289. 402

137

H.V.D.

. 143

Shirreff, Patrick . . .448

H. W.

. 358

Sowerby, J. D. C, F.L.S. . 44. 233

J. A. H.

- 109

S. P. - - . 385,386,387

J. A., St. John's Wood

- 69

S. T. - - . - . .366

J. B.

103. 114

Stanley, J., M.D. . . .276

J. D. C. S.

. 109.296

Stewart, John V. - . - 301

J. E. B., Wrexham

. 106

Stock, D. . 88. 120. 213. 387. 464

J. F.

.207

S. V. W. Woodbridge . - - 247

J. G. C. - -

. 114

Sweet, R., F.L.S. &c. - - 88. 101. 113

J. H. P. H. . "

. 13

T. . . - - - 240

J. L. Philadelphia,

103. 116

Tatem, James, Mem. of the Lend. Met Soc. 192

J.L-s

. 101

Taylor, R. C, F. G.S. - 26. 127. 216
T. F., near Huddersfield . - - 65

J. M.

. 211.244.304.488

J. M'A.

- 202

T. F. R. - . - - 404

J. M., Chelsea

-100

T. G., Clithero . . - 289

J. R. - 194. 254. 293. 367. 396. 456. 457. 463. 467

Thompson, John, Hull - - - 468

J. R., Kilkenny

. 93. 110

Thompson, J. v., F.L.S. - - 115.442

J. A. H.

.484

Thompson, Thos. . . 288. 302. 400. 477

J. B., Liverpool

. 485

Thomson, Prof. A. T, M.D. F.L.S. &c. - 408

J.C.

. 288, 289

Thomson, J. T. - . .303

J. D, M.

: 395

T. J 290

J. E. B.

. 288

T. N. P. - . . - 406

Jennings, James
Jerdan, W.

- 113.264

T. W. S. - . - - 230

. 243

V. - - . . 218. 301

J. G. C.

. 207

W. . - . . - 402

J. M., Chelsea

.405

W. A., C. R 102

J. M., Philadelphia

- 370

W., Brentford - . . .88

J. S. -

. 288, 289. 292. 299

W.C.T. - - 119.120.207.209

Jukes, Frederick

. 41. 231

Westwood, J. O., F.LS. &c. - 403

J. V. S.

. 208

W. H., R. N. . . 2ffl. 305

J. W.

. 89. 268

White, W. H. - - - 209. 485

K.

. 188

W.H.M. - - - 72.247

K., Ipswich,

. 267. 287

W. H, R. N., Yeovil - - - 70

Kent, Miss

. 155

Winch, Nat. John, A.L.S. &c. - - 282

Kenyon, Jos.

. 89. 273. 303

W.J. . . - .90.283

Kerridge, D. G. -

- 292

Woods, Henry, A.LS. . - 202

Kirby, the Rev. William, M.A. F.R.S, - 20. 406

Woodward, Sam. . - .244

Lakes, the Rev. J.

-458

W. S., Brussels - - - 248

Lamb, C.

- 205. 212. 291

W. T. . . - . 62, 63

Lan^gley,Larret_ ._

- 270

W. T. B. . - - - 268

. 70. 294. 458

W. W., Wandsworth . - - 104

L., Hampstead

. 406

W. Y. - . . . - 206

L. S.

- 20

Y.T. H. . . . - 215

M. - .

. 208. 210. S04

Your Constant Reader - . - 302

Main, J.

. 175

Zeta - . . . - 267

M. A. R.

- 90

It> . . . 238.241.312

Matthews, Andrew, A.L.S.

. 67. 105

11 . 242. 384. 385. 387. 389. 391. 392

M. C. G., Margate

. 211

THE MAGAZINE

OF

NATURAL HISTORY.

MARCH, 1829.

Art. I. An Account of Mr. Needhams original Discovery of the
Action of the Potlen of Plants ; tvith Observations on the supposed
Existence of active Molecules in Mineral Substances* By Robert
Bakewell, Esq,

Sir,

The accounts which have been recently published on the
action of the pollen of plants, and particularly Mr. Robert
Brown*s observations on this subject, and on the general exist-
ence of active molecules in organic and inorganic matter, have
excited much attention among the naturalists of our own
country, and on the Continent.

After my return from Hampshire in October last, I put my
microscopes in requisition, to examine some of the extra-
ordinary phenomena described by Mr, Brown, The season
being far advanced, my garden did not furnish many species
of flowers, but sufficient to confirm some of the facts stated
by Mr, Brown, and to present others, not less curious, which
are not described by him. While engaged in amusing myself
with these microscopic researches, I found, behind a neglected
corner of my book-shelves, an octavo volume, uncut, entitled,
An Account of some Microscopic Discoveries. These discoveries
are detailed, under different heads, in the titlepage: among
others are, " Observations on the Farina foecundans of Plants,
with a new discovery and description of the action of those
minute bodies analogous to that of the calmar's milt-vessels,
and an examination of the pistil, uterus, and stamina of several
flowers, with an attempt to show how the seed is impreg-
nated," The work was published in 1745, and is signed
T, N, On perusing it, I find that the author was Mr, Need-
ham, to whom Mr, Brown refers, as having obscurely seen
the motion of the particles of pollen, I suppose Mr. Brown
had not met with this volume, which I believe is scarce ; for

Vol. IL — No. 6. b

^ On the Action of the Pollen of Plants^

Mr. Needham has not only minutely and accurately described
the action of the pollen, but has correctly delineated it in the
act of ejecting the particles contained within it. He also
mentions having seen the particles move when within the
pollen of the pumpion. He appears, indeed, to have de-
scribed most of the principal facts, respecting the action of
pollen, that have yet been satisfactorily ascertained. As similar
microscopic observations at present engage the attention of
many distinguished naturalists on the Continent, it is but justice
to our own countryman, Mr. Needham, to bring forward the
discoveries which he made near a century ago. An account
of his work cannot fail to be acceptable to many of your
readers.

In order that those who are not at present acquainted with
vegetable physiology may have a clear notion of Mr. Need-
ham's discoveries, it may not be improper to state that the
farina, or pollen, of plants, is that fine powder which may be
observed within many flowers, and is particularly abundant
in the white lily, where it occurs in the form of an orange-
coloured meal. This powder is supposed to perform the
important function of impregnating the seed. When seen
through a microscope, as Miss Kent well describes, in p. 232.
of your useful Magazine, "every particle appeal^ a little bag,
containing a meal yet finer."

Pollen is generally translucent, and the smaller particles
may be seen within, like the seeds of a white currant, but
much smaller in proportion. The grains of the pollen of the
geranium are oval, and do not exceed the 400th part of an
inch in diameter, as I ascertained by a micrometer scale ; the
particles or granules within it do not exceed the 10,000th part
of an inch. The pollen of some plants, as the mallow and
hollyhock, is surrounded by minute spines, and, when mag-
nified, the grains resemble the seeds of cleavers or goose
grass (Galium Sparine). Mr. Needham, as will be shortly
shown, was the first who discovered the internal particles in
the grains of pollen, and attributed to them the property of
impregnating the seeds of plants.

The first sixty pages of Mr. Needham's work contains an
account of his discoveries of the structure of the animalcules
in the milt-vessels of the calmar, a species of cuttle-fish. His
object is to prove that these minute animalcules have an in-
ternal organisation, resembling a pump and sucker, and con-
tain within them " opaque globules, in a kind of serous liquor,"
nearly similar to what he afterwards discovered in the pollen
of plants ; and he considers these internal particles to be in
both cases the real fecundising agents. . The succeeding twenty-

and the Emstence ofacthe Molecules in Minerals. %

four pages contain his discovery of the action of the pollen of
plants when placed in water. This action, he says, " had
escaped the observation of all naturalists till that time, as ap-
pears by their express assertions ; for they affirm that water
causes no alteration in the farina." His observations appear
to have been made in the warm climate of Portugal, where
the action of the pollen was vigorous and rapid. Mr. Need-
ham says, " The farina of the jLilium flore reflexo was the
first in which I discovered the action of the globules ; for,
upon viewing it in water, I thought I perceived some alteration
in these minute bodies, as if the shell, or case, had emitted
through a small aperture a train of minute globules, which
appeared but as points in the microscope, involved in a filmy
substance, as the eggs of some aquatic insects are, and, in
effect, not much unlike them. I immediately applied some
fresh farina ; and having first fitted the microscope to a due
focal distance, I dropped, with the tip of a pencil, a quantity
of water upon the object ; when, in the course of some few
seconds, I distinctly perceived a train of globules, involved in
a filmy substance, to be ejaculated from within these minute
bodies, and contorting itself from one side to the other during
the time of action, which does not last above a second or two
of time, and may be easily understood by a view of Jigs. 1.
and 2. The drawings were taken from the pollen of the
mallow. The several species of farina differ but httle from
each other in this particular, their action in general resem-
bling that of an eolipile violently heated. I have since
repeated this experiment upon almost every species of farina
with the like success, particularly upon that of the pumpion,
which afforded me a more than ordinary gratification, not
only because the globules are larger than those of the farina
of most flowers, and may be observed with the second mag-
nifier, where I had the advantage of a large field, but also
because I could plainly perceive by two or three lucid specks,
which continually shifted their places during the time of action,
an intestine commotion within the globules, and a stronger
ejaculation of the emitted particles." He farther observed,
" that some species of farina act with so much force, that,
when two globules are contiguous, the action of the ejaculated
substance in one will repel the other to the distance of six or
seven times its diameter." Where the pollen was transparent,
he could not perceive particles in the matter ejected, which
appeared like a thin pellucid vapour ; of which he cites the
pollen of the Nasturtium as affording an instance. Mr. Need-
ham made use of the reflecting microscope, and the above
account will show that he obtained a correct view of his

B 2

4 071 the Action of the Pollen of Plants,

object. His style is somewhat obscure, as he does not well
distinguish between the pollen itself, which he calls globules,
and the particles contained in, and ejected from, the pollen ;
but his meaning is sufficiently obvious to prevent any mistake
respecting them. Fig. 1. represents
the pollen of the mallow ejecting the
particles, as seen with his third mag-
nifier ; fg. 2. represents one grain of
pollen in the act of ejection, as seen
with his highest magnifier.

Mr. Needham asserts that the
pollen should be fresh gathered;
but this is not necessary, as Mr.
Brown has proved. He also says that
the act of ejecting the particles continues only a few seconds.

This maybe true
with the pollen
gathered in the
summer months:
but the pollen on
which I made
the experiment
was taken from
plants in the
month of Octo-
ber, and the ac-
tion did not begin till the pollen had been some time in
water, and it continued for nearly an hour in many of the
grains ; others ejected the whole of their particles in less
than a minute. The pollen of a hollyhock, which had been
between the plates of mica in the slider of a microscope
at least fifty years, emitted the particles very copiously, after
immersion in water for four or five minutes. They were of
different magnitudes, some being more than four times the
size of others. When these particles were detached from
each other, by stirring the drop of water, they continued to
move about for some time, like the Animalcula infusoria : but
when the grains of pollen had ceased to eject more particles,
and the agitation from external causes ceased, I could never
perceive any active motion of the particles, though I have
repeated my observations frequently with different micro-
scopes.

The first remarkable circumstance which takes place when
the pollen is immersed in water is, sometimes, a change of
form in the grains of pollen themselves. I was greatly sur^.
prised to see the pollen of the sweet pea change almost in-'

and the Existence of active Molectdes in Minerals. 5

stantly from a cylindrical to a nearly globular form. Some
of the grains which lay beyond the edge of the water being
unchanged, gave me the opportunity of comparing them in
these two forms. Frequently a transparent globule of con-
siderable size, and sometimes two, are first protruded gra-
dually through the coats of the pollen. Sometimes the
granules rush out rapidly in a mass, as represented in j^g. 2. ;
at other times they flow out slowly in a winding train. The
coats of the pollen sometimes burst in two places. The figures
drawn by Mr. Needham very accurately represent the appear-
ance of the pollen in action.

The year being far advanced when I began my observations,
I was unable to extend them to many species of plants. I,
however, carefully examined again and again the pollen of
those plants that were accessible. Though I could never per-
ceive any motion of the granules when they were clearly
separated from the pollen, after the first ejection, it is not
improbable that the particles within the pollen may possess
greater activity in the summer months. I find it stated in
p. 473. of your Magazine, that the Continental naturalists
remark that the granules from the pollen of the same plant
exhibit at one time a perceptible motion, and at another
perfect immobility, under circumstances to all appearance
alike.

The accounts which have recently been published, of the
seeds of certain species of mosses possessing spontaneous
motion, and then sending forth roots, and becoming fixed
vegetables, appear at first truly surprising. Mr. Ellis, the
well known author of the work on Corallines, and a very accu-
rate observer, was not unacquainted with this circumstance
half a century ago, and has given a satisfactory solution of the
phenomenon. He says the "minute seeds which evolve under
water from fungi and mosses, and appear to have spontaneous
motion, derive that motion from more minute animalcules in
the water, which, by pecking at these seeds, moved them about
in various directions, while the little animals were scarcely
visible, till the food they had eaten discovered them." Other
early microscopic observers were acquainted with the appa-
rent metamorphosis of animalcules into vegetables.

In what has been advanced,^ it is not intended to deny the
existence of active vegetable molecules, but to maintain that
their existence is still problematical. That the tissues of all
organic bodies may consist of molecules, and that these mole-
cules may possess a moving power, when detached from each
other, seems accordant with many observations on the effects
of macerating vegetable and animal substances in water, but

B 3

6 On the Action of the Pollen of Plants,

that the molecules of mineral substances should possess this
power, can only be admitted upon the most rigorous scrutiny.

I have made repeated observations on several mineral sub-
stances, which Mr. Brown says are chiefly composed of these
active molecules ; and though in some instances I was at first
persuaded that I had seen the motions of the molecules similar
to those of the smallest species of Infusoria, a more careful
examination proved that I was mistaken, and that the motions
were derived from causes that had not been properly appre-
ciated. In these experiments it is absolutely requisite to em-
ploy fresh-distilled or fresh-boiled water. The Thames water
and water in cisterns generally contain numerous animalcules.
I chiefly made use of single lenses from -[V to oV of an inch
focal length, varying in magnifying power, from 100 to 220
times in linear dimensions : the use of the compound micro-
scope is, I think, inadmissible in such delicate observations.
With the lowest of the above-mentioned powers, a particle less
than 1 0,^0 0^ part of an inch in diameter is distinctly perceptible,
and the form of a particle of twice that diameter may be ob-
served.* To make use of higher powers than what are abso-
lutely required, render's the examinations more difficult, and
the result more uncertain.

To obtain glass in a highly comminuted state, I took the
powder-blue used by laundresses, which I still farther tritu-
rated. The small portion of the oxide of cobalt which enters
into the composition of this glass, could not be supposed to
paralyse the action of the molecules, as all the metals that can
be reduced to powder are said to contain these active molecules.

By making use of powder-blue, I had the advantage of seeing
when all the larger particles were deposited. Among other sub-
stances which I more particularly examined, were finely pow-
dered adhesive slate, mountain cork, quartz, flint, and kaolin,
from a specimen of the best kind used in the manufacture at
Sevres, given me by M. A. Brongniart. When a drop of water
containing any of these substances was placed under the micro-
scope, I perceived particles in motion, which continued for
some time, and then was scarcely discernible, but on laying my
hand upon the table the motion recommenced, and was evi-
dently produced by a current in the drop; although many
particles appeared to be more influenced by it than others,
which occasioned a change in their relative positions. Hence
I became convinced, that in order to make the experiment

* According to Sir William Herschell, though an object which subtends
a visual angle less than a minute may be perceived, yet, to ascertain the
form of it, it should subtend two minutes and a half

and the Existence of active Molecules in Minerals, 7

properly, the microscope should be placed on a support not
liable to be affected by vibrations of any kind, and I therefore
placed the instrument on a support made for a telescope
stand, so constructed as to prevent vibration w^hen examining
the more delicate double stars. I found that even the puls-
ation of my body occasioned an oscillatory motion of the par-
ticles, when the microscope vs^as placed upon a table. After
repeated trials, I became satisfied that whatever motions may
appear to take place among the particles, for some time after
the drop of water is first placed under the microscope, they
will soon subside, if not kept up by agitation from external
causes. In London, as an excellent practical philosopher,
the late William Nicholson, justly observed, it is scarcely pos-
sible to avoid the effects of vibration ; this may be seen by the
continual tremours visible on the surface of mercury placed in
a basin. Now, if the particles of dust that fall on the surface
of the mercury could be brought under a powerful microscope,
they would appear in constant motion. Let us suppose the
mercury to be changed for water, a similar effect will take
place, and the particles that may sink under the surface will
represent the particles of dust in a single drop ; and Mr. Brown
informs us that the whole of the London dust is composed of
active molecules. I am fully conviilced, however, that their
activity in a drop of water, as well as when dancing in the
sunbeam, is derived from external agitation. The very force
of gravity constantly drawing the particles downwards must
not be overlooked, for it is not contended that the vitality of
inorganic particles is sufficient to keep them permanently sus-
pended in water. The observer's breath, and the constant
evaporation of the drop, have also a tendency to produce
counter-currents. A drop of water placed under the micro-
scope, may be regarded as equal, in apparent magnitude, to a
quart of the same fluid in a water-glass, and will be subject to
the various currents that may be produced by agitation in the
larger quantity ; but the slightest movement which occasions
a displacement of the particles, even the one-thousandth part
of an inch will, under a high magnifying power, make them
appear to perform a long voyage. Some of the animalcules
discovered by Loewenhoeck, the motions of which excited so
much surprise, he informs us, never travelled farther than a
hair's breadth.*

It is highly improbable that we shall ever be able to reduce
mineral substances to their ultimate molecules by pulverisation.

* Hicce progressus non majus habebat spatium quam quod capilli Miame-
trum aequaret.

B 4

8 On the Action of the Pollen of Plants, S^c,

Their essential qualities remain the same after pounding as
before ; and, could we construct microscopes that would mag-
nify twenty thousand times in linear dimensions, we should
see in pounded quartz, flint, &c., fragments and pebbles, the
size of walnuts, exacdy resembling those of the same minerals
at the foot of a mountain, and it is difficult to believe that they
would gain active moving powers by simple immersion in water.
Still the philosophical world is greatly indebted to Mr. Brown,
for having directed the attention of naturalists to this curious
subject. About ten years ago, I was informed that Mr. By water,
an ingenious optician, now residing in Liverpool, had discovered
moving animalcules in coal-ashes, pounded marble, and other
mineral substances. Little interest was then excited by the
supposed discovery, it required an eminent naturalist like Mr.
Brown, whose merits are well known, and highly appreciated
in his own country and on the Continent, to direct public at-
tention to statements so much at variance with our precon-
ceived notions of matter. If, contrary to my expectation, after
all due caution in the observations, it should be finally esta-
blished that mineral substances are composed of active mole-
cules, what new views of nature will the discovery unfold 1
Beds of siliceous sand, like those on our Hampstead Heath,
are only awaiting a further process of trituration, to be awa-
kened into life by the torrent that shall bear them into the ocean;
and the geologist, while he contemplates the organic remains
of a former world embedded in solid rocks, must regard the
rocks themselves as the parents of future living beings. But
who shall presume to say that we have at present discovered
all the properties which the Creator has communicated to
material substances ? It should be borne in mind, that, less
than a century since, latent heat, electric and galvanic energy,
and crystalline polarity were unknown as important agents in
nature ; and that philosophers attempted to explain the phe-
nomena of thunder-storms, and even of vital action, on mecha-
nical principles. It will not be denied that many important
processes take place in the mineral kingdom, which cannot
now be explained by the agency of known causes, but await the
discovery of other principles for their satisfactory elucidation.
As it is probable that many persons may be desirous of
entering this new field of enquiry, it will materially assist them
in forming an accurate judgment of what they observe, to pro-
vide pepper water, and other vegetable or animal infusions,
that they may from time to time compare the motions of the
real Animalcula infusoria with those of the supposed activemole-
cules ; and, if modern philosophy did not disdain to profit by the
illustrations which common life frequently offers, I would re*-

Anecdotes of a Diana Monkey., 9

commend them to look attentively at the bubbles, or the
crumbs that float on the surface of a basin of tea, and they
will soon be convinced, that change of relative position is
not a sufficient proof of spontaneous motion or vitality.

I am, Sir, yours, &c.
Hampstead, Feb, 29. 1829. Robt. Bakewell.

PS. — Since the above was written, I have most carefully
re-examined various mineral and inorganic substances, with-
out discovering any proper motion of the molecules if the
water was recently boiled. When I used unboiled water, I
was once or twice deceived by an 'apparent motion which, I
am convinced, was caused by animalcules previously existing
in the water. — R, B., Feb, 20.

Art. II. Anecdotes of a Diana Monkey, By Mrs. Bowdich.

Sir,
Although anecdotes of monkeys are as numerous as the
beings to whom they owe their origin, although they are
brought forward to all ages, and at all times, still I have ob-
served that no one gets tired of them, that their histories or
portraits create an interest common to all human beings, of
whatever race, or in whatever situation. The negro delights
in relating the wonders or rogueries they perform, and the
saying, " that monkeys could talk if they liked, only they are
afraid white men would make them work if they did," is every
where to be heard among the more indolent inhabitants of the
tropics. English men, women, and children resemble their
black brethren : and there is yet another feeling in which the
most 'savage and the most refined seem to agree, it is the
dislike, or mortification, call it what you will, which we feel in
seeing how nearly they resemble ourselves. There was a
restless, tormenting, and agile creature on board a vessel in
which I sailed up an African river, who was incessantly teasing
and hovering about me. If I called another, he was sure to
leap across the deck, and come to perform that which the
other would have done much better. I never thought myself
quite alone, but this fellow's head was sure to start from some
unexpected corner ; and one day, wearied with his officious-
ness, I pointed to a black monkey sitting opposite to us, and
said to him, " Rapoynda, that is your brother." Kind words,
presents, nought availed me afterwards, for I was never for-
given. The same feeling might be traced in a very different
form, when a friend of mine pulled me away from the con tern-

10 Anecdotes of a Diana Monkey,

plation of Landseer's admirable picture*, exclaiming, " How
can you look at that so long ? Such things ought never to have
been made, and I am sure ought never to have been painted."
I obeyed, but the recollection of Rapoynda flashed across me.
After this I will not apologise for intruding an old ship
companion of mine on your notice, although he belongs to the
never failing theme of monkeys. He w^as a native of the
Gold Coast, and was of the Diana species (5imia Diana).
{fig.S.) He had been
purchased by the cook of
the vessel in which I
sailed from Africa, and
was considered his ex-
clusive property. Jack's
place then was close tOi
the cabooce; but as hisi
education progressed, he
was gradually allowed an*
increase of liberty, till at
last he enjoyed the rangeJ
of the whole ship, except^
the cabin. I had em-j
barked with more than a
mere womanly aversion to
monkeys, it was absolute
antipathy; and although
I often laughed at Jack's
freaks, still I kept out
of his way, till a circum-
stance brought with it a
closer acquaintance, and cured me of my dislike. Our latitude
was three degrees south, and we only proceeded by occasional
tornadoes, the intervals of which were filled up by dead calms and
bright weather. When these occurred during the day, the helm
was frequently lashed, and all the watch went below. On one
of these occasions I was sitting alone on the deck, and reading
intently, when, in an instant, something jumped upon my
shoulders, twisted its tail round my neck, and screamed close
to my ears. My immediate conviction that it was Jack scarcely
relieved me : but there was no help ; I dared not cry for as-
sistance, because I was afraid of him, and dared not obey the
next impulse, which was to thump him ofl^ for the same rea-
son, I therefore became civil from necessity, and from that
moment Jack and I entered into an alliance. He gradually
loosened his hold, looked at my face, examined my hands and

* " The Monkey who had «cen the World."

Anecdotes of a Diana Monkey, 11

rings with the most minute attention, and soon found the bis-
cuit which lay by my side. When I liked him well enough
to profit by his friendship, he became a constant source of
amusement. Like all other nautical monkeys, he was fond of
pulling off the men's caps as they slept, and throwing them
into the sea; of knocking over the parrots' cages to drink the
water as it trickled along the deck, regardless of the occasional
gripe he received ; of taking the dried herbs out of the tin mugs
in which the men were making tea of them ; of dexterously
picking out the pieces of biscuit which were toasting between
the bars of the grate ; of stealing the carpenter's tools ; in short,
of teasing every thing and every body : but he was also a first-
rate equestrian. Whenever the pigs were let out to take a
run on deck, he took his station behind a cask, whence he
leaped on the back of one of his steeds as it passed. Of
course the speed was increased, and the nails he stuck in to
keep himself on produced a squeaking; but Jack was never
thrown, and became so fond of the exercise, that he was
obliged to be shut up whenever the pigs were at liberty. Con-
finement was the worst punishment he could receive, and
whenever threatened with that, or any other, he would cling
to me for protection. At night, when about to be sent to bed
in an empty hen-coop, he generally hid himself under my
shawl, and at last never suffered any one but myself to put
him to rest. He was particularly jealous of the other monkeys
on board, who were all smaller than himself, and put two out
of his way. The first feat of the kind was performed in my
presence : he began by holding out his paw, and making a
squeaking noise, which the other evidently considered as an
invitation ; the poor little thing crouched to him most humbly,-
but Jack seized him by the neck, hopped off to the side of the
vessel, and threw him into the sea. We cast out a rope im-
mediately, but the monkey was too much frightened to cling
to it, and we were going too fast to save him by any other
means. Of course Jack was flogged and scolded, at which he
was very penitent ; but the deceitful rogue, at the end of three
days, sent another victim to the same destiny. But his spite
against his own race was manifested at another time in a very
original way. The men had been painting the ship's side with
a streak of white, and upon being summoned to dinner, left
their brushes and paint on deck. Unknown to Jack, I was
seated behind the companion door, and saw the whole trans-
action ; he called a little black monkey to him, who, like the
others, immediately crouched to his superior, when he seized
him by the nape of the neck with one paw, took the brush,
dripping with paint, with the other, and covered him with
white from head to foot. Both the man at the helm and

\^ , Anecdotes (^a Diana Motikei/,

myself burst into a laugh, upon which Jack dropped his victim,
and scampered up the rigging. The unhappy litde beast
began licking himself^ but I called the steward, who washed
him so well with turpentine, that all injury was prevented ; but
during our bustle Jack was peeping with his black nose through
the bars of the maintop, apparently enjoying the confusion.
For three days he persisted in remaining aloft ; no one could
catch him, he darted with such rapidity from rope to rope ; at
length, impelled by hunger, he dropped unexpectedly from
some height on my knees, as if for refuge, and as he had
thus confided in me, I could not deliver him up to punish-
ment.

The only way in which I could control his tricks was by
showing him to the panther on board, which excited his fears
very strongly. I used to hold him up by his tail, and the in-
stant he saw the panther he would become perfectly stiff, shut
his eyes, and pretend to be dead. When I moved away, he
would relax his limbs, and open one eye very cautiously, but
if he caught a glimpse of the panther's cage, the eyes were
quickly closed, and he resumed the rigidity of death. After
four months' sojourn together, I quitted Jack off the Scilly
Islands, and understood that I was very much regretted : he
unceasingly watched for me in the morning, and searched for
me in every direction, even venturing into the cabin ; nor was
he reconciled to my departure when my servants left the ves-
sel at Gravesend. It may not be out of place to mention here
the extraordinary animal which is said to exist in the coun-
tries to the north of the Gaboon river. The natives describe
it as the largest of all monkeys, but of a breadth more tre-
mendous than its height ; they declare that one blow of its
paw would fell a man to the earth. Both males and females
are very much attached to their young, and the latter carry
them about after death till they drop from their arms. They
are fond of imitating men ; walk upright ; and, having seen the
natives collect ivory, if they find a tusk, they carry it on their
shoulders till they sink with fatigue. They are said to build
huts with leaves and boughs of trees, but not to have sufficient
sagacity to live in them, as they get on the roof, and there
abide the inclemencies of the tornado season. They attack
travellers as if they thought them intruders, and have never
yet been taken alive.

It is alleged that the African ourang approaches nearer to
man than any other. It would, therefore, be extremely inte-
resting to procure one of these Ingheenas, which are probably
quite new ; for although we know nothing of them except by
report, and doubtless hear a number of absurdities respecting

Oji riding on the Back of a Crocodile.

13

them, I feel assured that they exist, and are extremely for-
midable, both in stature and cunning. I am, Sir, yours, &c.

S. BOWDICH.

Art. III. On riding on the Back of a Crocodile, By J. H. P. H.

Many people on possessing the original and highly interesting
Wanderings in South America, by Charles Waterton, Esq,,
altogether disbelieve his account of catching the crocodile, or,
as it is here called, the Cayman, and laugh at the extreme im-
probability of his having '^jumped on his hacky in order to
conquer him. {fig, 4.) This the greater part of his readers

have looked upon as a fiction ; and others have considered it
as a downright falsehood. The following observations, there-
fore, will tend to counteract this idea, and to show that it has
actually been the custom, among some nations, both in ancient
and modern times, to mount on the backs of crocodiles, that
these animals may be taken with more facility and safety.

The great Roman naturalist gives this curious description
of catching crocodiles: — " Gens hominum est crocodilo ad-
versa in ipso Nilo Tentyritae, ab insula in qua habitat appel-
lata. Mensura eorum parva, sed prsesentia animi in hoc tan-
turn usu mira. Terribilis haec contra fugaces bellua est, fugax
contra insequentes, sed adversum ire soli hi audent. Quin-
etiam flumini innatant, dorsoque equitantium modo imposiHi
liiantibus resupino capite ad morsum, addita in os clava, dex-
tra ac Iseva tenentes extrema ejus utrinque, ut fraenis in terram

14 On fidmg on^lie Back of a Crocodile.

agunt captivos, ac voce etiam sola territos, cogunt evomere
rec6ntia corpora ad sepulturam." * — Plifiii Hist. Nat., lib. viii.
cap. 25.

In a rare and very singular book of field sports f , contain-
ing one hundred and one coloured plates, to which are ahnexed
four lines in Latin descriptive of each subject, tab. 88. repre-
sents, most probably from this account of Pliny, some men
riding on crocodiles, and bringing them to land by means of
a pole across their mouths, whilst others are killing the beasts
with large clubs. The foregoing sketch {Jig. 4^.) is a figure
taken from that plate, with the following verses : —

" Tentyra in iEgypto, Nilum juxta, insula gentem , i

Intrepidara gignit ; crocodili haec scandere dorsum . i'

Audet : refrenat baculo os : discedere cogit
Ex amne in terram : mortem acceleratque nocenti." %

Dr. Pococke, in his observations on Egypt, mentions a me-
thod of taking the crocodile still more like that which our
author practised in South America. He says, " they make
some animal cry at a distance from the river, and- when
the crocodile comes out, they thrust a spear into his body, to
which a rope is tied : they then let him go into the water to
spend himself, and afterwards drawing him out, run a pole
into his mouth, and, jumping on his back, tie his jaws together."
(vol. i. p. 203.)

Now, Mr. Waterton and his Indians having secured a mon-
ster of the Essequibo, by a baited hook fastened to a long rope,
''they pulled the cayman," as he describes (p. 231.), "within
two yards of me, I saw he was in a state of fear and perturba-
tion ; I instantly dropped the mast, sprung up, and jumped on
his back, turning half round as I vaulted, so that I gained my
seat with my face in a right position. I immediately seized his

* " There is a race of men hostile to the crocodile, called Tentyritae,
from an island in the Nile itself, which they inhabit. Their stature is small,
but their courage in this practice is wonderful. This beast is terrible to
them that flee from him, but runs away from his pursuers, and these men
alone dare attack him. Moreover, they swim after him in the river, and
mounting on his back, like horsemen, as he opens his jaws to bite, with his
head turned up, they thrust a club into his mouth, and holding the ends of
it, one in the right hand, and the other in the left, they bring him to shore
captive as if with bridles, and so frightened with their shouts only, that they
compel him to disgorge the bodies he had but just swallowed, in order to
be buried."

t It is entitled " Venationes ferarum, avium, piscium, Pugnae Bestiario-
rum, et mutuae Bestiarum, depictae a Joanne Stradano, editae per Nico-
laum Visscher, cum privilegio ordinum HoUandiae et West-Frisiae."

X " Tentyra, an island of the Nile, in Egypt, is inhabited by an intrepid
people, who climb the crocodile's back, and, bridling his mouth with a staflfj
force him out of the river, and slay him."

On ridiiig on the Back of a Crocodile. 15

fore legs, and by main force twisted them on his back : thus
they served me for a bridle."

Herodotus [Euterpe^ chap. 70.), relates a different way of
catching this animal on the Nile. — 'ETreav vwtov uo^ SeAeacry/
7csp\ uynKTTpoVy fjisrisi s$ jU,g<rov tov TroTccfjt^ov ovjTog, Se stt) tov ^sU
Xsos Tou 7roTU(Jiou s^ctiv SeXipaxa ^co^v, tuvtyiv tutttsj. S7rctx,4<ru§ 85

ocdTCK.'Trlvsr ol 8s sXxscrr sttsuv 8e s^sXkvg-^y) h§ y^v, Trpwrov uttuvtcov
0 ^ripsvTYjs, TryjXw xotT wv gTrXace uuts touj oipSaXjXOuj. rouro 8g
TTOij^craf, KapTci svTrsTscog ra Xqitcol ^sipSrai. *

Tab. 87. of Johannes Stradaen's Hmitings represents the
manner of taking these beasts, as described by Herodotus,
and the lines below it are : —

" Esca Niliacus capitur crocodilus et hamo,
Qui latet occiso in porcello : bellua vivi
Illectns porci grunnitu, ad littora tendit,
Escam hamumque vorat; limo obruiturque et arena." f

Herodotus says that the people of Elephantine in Egypt call
the crocodile xa/Avf/rj (champse) {Euterpe, cap. 69.); and it is
worthy of remark, that Bryant gives, among other names for it,
that of Caimin. [Mythology, vol. ii. p. 398.) Pococke and
Herodotus both assert that some animal is made to cry near
the river, so that by its noise the crocodile may be attracted
to the spot, and we find due notice was likewise given on the
banks of the Essequibo ; for we read, " the Indian," having
laid the bait, " then took the empty shell of a land tortoise,
and gave it some heavy blows with an axe. I asked why he
did that ? He said, it was to let the cayman hear that some-
thing was going on. In fact, the Indian meant it as the cay-
man's dinner-bell." (p. 227.)

Although a ride on the back of a crocodile is not likely ever
to become very fashionable, as a morning's exercise or amuse-
ment, even in this age of the " march of intellect," yet, it is
seen, from the above authorities, that it really is, and long has
been, adopted in the process of killing these monsters of the
deep.

Jan, 27. 1829. J. H. P. H.

' " When they have fixed a piece of swine's flesh on a hook, they cast it
into the middle of the river ; and on the bank they have a live pig, which
they beat. The crocodile, hearing the squeaking, goes to the noise ; and,
having seized the flesh, devours it : they then pull him ; and when they
have dragged him on shore, they first of all fill his eyes with mud ; and hav-
ing done this, he is very easily despatched."

f " The crocodile of the Nile is taken with a hook baited with a dead
pig. The reptile, allured to the shore by the squeaking of a live pig, devours
bait and hook, and is overwhelmed with mud and sand."

16 On the Arrival and Retreat of British Hir^ndines.

Art. IV. On the Arrival and Retreat of the British Hirundinesy
mth a Table of Arrivals and Departures y Jrom 1800 to 1828.
By the Rev. W. T. Bree, M.A.

It has long been a question among naturalists, and one that
has not yet been so fully and satisfactorily answered as could
be wished, what becomes of the swallows during the winter,
after they have disappeared from our view in the autumn.
The opinion adopted by Linnaeus, and other northern natu-
ralists, that they retire under water for the winter, if it ever
prevailed to any extent among the more intelligent in this
country, has, I believe, been long since exploded. Little
doubt, I think, need be entertained, that the greater part of
them migrate to warmer climates : but do not a few indivi-
duals of at least some of the species secrete themselves in this
country, and lie in a torpid state during the winter months ?
No naturalist, perhaps, ever paid more minute attention to this
subject than the celebrated Gilbert White ; and though his
diligent and repeated efforts to discover any of these birds in
their brumal retirement invariably proved unsuccessful, still
the result of his various observations amounts, I believe, to
what has just been stated, that while the great body of swal-
lows migrate, some few lie dormant, and remain in this coun-
try. * There are several circumstances connected both with
their first appearance and their departure which tend to con-
firm the above opinion. It almost invariably happens that a
few individuals of the swallow tribe are to be seen in the early
spring (by the beginning of April, or even in March), long
before the general flight arrives ; hence the common saying,
that " one swallow does not make summer." And, again, a
few linger on with us long after the general flight has disap-
peared in the autumn. These stragglers, too, both in spring
and autumn, frequently withdraw for some days, or even
weeks, and then reappear after a considerable interval. " A
circumstance, this," as White observes, " much more in favour
of hiding than migration ; since it is much more probable that
a bird should retire to its hybernaculum just at hand, than
return for a week or two only to warmer latitudes." The
autumnal stragglers, it is supposed, are weakly birds that have
been hatched late in the season ; and they are frequently to be
observed flying feebly and heavily about, not with their accus-
tomed alacrity. To all appearance, therefore, they seem to
be ill calculated to undertake a long journey over the seas,
and to encounter the tempestuous weather likely to occur at
that late season of the year. Of all our British species the

* See Hist, of Selborne, Letter xxi. to Thomas Pennant, Esq., and
Letter xviii. to the Hon. D. Barrin^ton.

On the Arrival and Retreat of British Jriirundines. 17

sand marten is the one which we should naturally expect to
be the most likely to hide during the winter in the deep
recesses of banks, in which it makes its nest.* And, accord-
ingly, this is, occasionally at least, the earliest which makes its
appearance in the spring. White, indeed, says that the
house swallow comes first ; but the earliest appearance I find
recorded in his calendar is of the sand marten on the 21st of
March. In two several seasons I have observed the sand
marten on the 3 1 st of that month ; once in Cornwall, and once
in this neighbourhood, as appears by the following table, under
the years 1818 and 1822. I have been informed by an intel-
ligent friend, accustomed to pay attention to these birds, that
a house swallow once took up its residence, late in the autumn,
within St. Mary's Church, at Warwick, and was regularly
observed there by the congregation until Christmas eve, after
which it disappeared, and was seen no more. And, a few
years since, I heard of one making its appearance, in the
middle of winter, about the old mansion at Wroxall, in this
county, but to which species this bird belonged I was unable
to ascertain. The above facts, however far they may fall short
of positive proof, undoubtedly afford much probability to
White's opinion, that the i^irundines do not all leave this
island in the winter. At the same time, if this be the case
(a case, too, which, if it occur at all, occurs, we may suppose,
every year), it certainly is extraordinary that these birds
should never, either by accident or design, have been dis-
covered, while dormant in their winter quarters. And of such
discovery I am not aware that any instance has been adduced
sufficiently well authenticated to be relied on.

The swift (i^irundoyi pus), lam inclined to think, does not
hide with us, but is altogether migratory. Its appearance in
the spring is more simultaneous than that of the other Hivim-
dines, few of this species being to be seen much before the
general flight makes its appearance. It retires, for the most
part, by the middle of August or earlier, and does not visit us
again till towards the end of April or the beginning of May.
Now it seems hardly probable that a bird of such matchless
powers of wing, whose entire occupation, save only when en-
gaged in rest and incubation, is carried on in the air, should be
doomed to spend more than two thirds of the year in a state of
inactivity. Nor, again, is it likely that this species would
retire so early in the season as it does, if it were for the pur-

* White, however, observes that " these birds do not make use of their
caverns by way of hybernacula." (Letter xx. to the Hon. D. Barrington.)
Possibly they may occasionally do so, nevertheless, though he failed^ to
discover them in those situations. . . .

Vol. II. — No. 6. c

18 On the Arrival and Retreat of British Viir{indines.

pose of passing into a dormant state ; especially as we know
that it can, and occasionally does, subsist with us for a con-
siderable time after the usual period of its disappearance. The
following Table shows that the swift is sometimes seen in Sep-
tember, once so late as the 15th of that month; and the same
friend who related to me the circumstance of the house swal-
low taking up its abode in St. Mary's Church, informed me,
likewise, that he once recollected an instance of a swift, at
Warwick, remaining till about the time the swallows in general
took their departure. The bird was observed by many per-
sons, and attracted attention the more, from the circumstance
of its flying about along with the swallows, with a piece of
string or rag, or something of the sort, adhering to it. Most
probably it had been caught by some unlucky boy, who turned
it off again in sport, after having affixed to it this cumbrous
appendage, which, no doubt, proved the cause of deterring the
bird from migrating along with its associates at the usual season.
The calendar from which the following Table has been con-
structed, was kept for the most part in the midland counties,
and chiefly in Warwickshire. In some few instances, how-
ever, the observations were made in distant counties ; and such
are, accordingly, distinguished by a note at the bottom of the
Table. I have to regret that the notices relating to the house
marten and sand marten are so scanty. The fact is, though
the sand marten is less than the house marten, and of a dif-
ferent colour, the two species are not always readily to be dis-
tinguished from each other, unless a tolerably near view of
them can be obtained ; when at a distance, or high in the air,
the one may be easily mistaken for the other. And I have
made it an invariable rule never to enter in the calendar any
occurrence of which I was not perfectly certain; accuracy of
observation being the chief, if not the only, merit such a jour-
nal can well possess. The sand marten, too, is but partially
distributed through the country, and is the least domestic of
the genus, mostly frequenting wild commons, cliifs, sand-pits,
&c., and but seldom approaching the haunts of men. Some-
times it happens that the summer may have far advanced
before one of this species has presented itself to my view. And
to record its appearance at such a season as its Jirst arrival
would tend rather to mislead than inform the naturalist. The
frequent omission in the Table of these two species is, however,
the less to be regretted, as their periods both of arrival and
departure for the most part coincide pretty nearly with those
of the house swallows. If the exact order in which our British
species arrive be required to be stated, I should arrange it thusy
sand marten, house swallow, house marten, swift.

On the Arrival and Retreat of British Hirundines,

19

TABLE showing the earliest and latest Appearances of the British i/irundines
from the Year 1800 to the present Time.

Swallow
{H. ristica)
Marten
(H. tirbica)
SandMarten
(H. ripkria)
Swift

18(

First
seen.

Ap. 16.
Mays.

30.

Last
seen.

Nov. 1.
Aug. 27.

1801.

First " Last
seen. seen.

Ap. 10.

Nov. 7.

Ap.29. Aug. 20.

1802.

First Last
seen. seen.

Ap.l5. Oct 22.
Ap. 27. Aug. 19.

1803.

First Last
seen. seen.

Ap.3. Oct 17.
Ap.3.

May 4. Aug. 17.

1804.

First Last
seen. seen.

Ap. 14. N0V.6. a
Ap.30. Au.2"l.a

Swallow
Marten
SandMarten
Swift

18
Ap. 11.

May 10.

35.
Nov. 9.

Aug, 13.

18(
Ap.25.

May 13.

36.

Nov. 20.

Aug. 12.

18
Ap. 10.

May 9.

07.
Oct 28.

Aug. 11.

1808.

Ap. 7.

Ap. 21.

Ap. 21.

May 9. Aug. 11.

1809.
Ap.25. Oct 23.

May 8. Aug. 18.

Swallow
Marten
SandMarten
Swift

18

Ap. 13.
Ap. 13.

Mays.

10.
Oct. 14.

Aug. 16.

IS
Ap. 12..

Mayl.

11.
Oct 14.

Sep. 5.5

18
Ap. 15.

May 8.

12.
Oct. 14.

Aug.:6.

18
Ap.8.

May 2.

13.

Oct. 24.
Nov. 14.

Sep. 7. c

1814.

Ap.3. Oct 24.
Ap. 14.

May 1; Aug. 22.

Swallow
Marten
SandMarten
Swift

18
Ap.9.

May 7.

15.
Nov. 1.

Au.21. d

18

Ap.'21.
Ap 24.

May 7.

16.
Oct 10.

Aug. 19.

18

Ap.20.

May 7.

17.
Oct.24. e

Sep.l5./

18

Ap.l0.g
Ap.lS.g
Mr.31. h
May 5.

18.

Oct 9.
Oct. 24.

Aug. 9.

1819.
Ap.l5. Nov. 3.

Ap. SO. Aug. 17.

Swallow
Marten
SandMarten
Swift

18

Ap. 23.:
Ap. 25.
Ap. 12. i
Ap.29.

20.
Oct. 24.

Aug.- 11.

18
Ap. 17.

Ap. 22.
May 11.

21.
Oct. 15.

Au.24.*

18

Ap.20.

Mar. 31.
Mays.

22.

Nov. 9./

Aug. 16.

18
Ap. 10.

May 5.

23.
Oct 15.

Aug. 23.

18

Ap. 18.
Mayl.

Mayl.

24.
Oct 17.

Aug. 9.

Swallow
Marten
SandMarten
Swift

18
Ap.23.

May 6. '

25.

N0V.7.W
N0V.7.W

Aug. 18.

18
Ap. 12.

Mays.

26.

Oct20.«

Aug. 10.

18

Ap.519."
Ap.28.
Ap. 27.
Ap.30.

27.
Oct 11.

Aug. 15.

18
Ap. 11.

Ap. 18. 0

May 8.

28. ,

Oct.l4.»
Oct 11.

Aug. 17.

18

29.

a. In the Isle of Wight

b. This was a single bird seen at Birmingham. I observed others in Northamptonshire on the 21st of
August, and one at Coventry on the 24th. The last seen at Allesley were on the 5th of August.

c. At Worksop, in Yorkshire ; a single bird.

d. At Lancaster ; many birds flying in packs, and squealing about the town. I had observed none else-
where since the 7th of August.

e. Near Penzance. I was informed by an observant friepd that one swallow appeared at Allesley on
the lOth of November, and martens at Oxford on the 14th ; and at the latter place one marten or swal-
low on the 20th.

/. Two or three swifts sporting about with the large assemblies of swallows and martens by the sea-
side, near Penzance, to the eastward. These birds, there can be little doubt, were on their passage from
this country to a more southern climate. I had seen »one for a month previously ; the last I observed
were on the 1st of August, near Bristol. In Warwickshire swifts were seen this year on the 27th of August

g. Near Penzance.

h. Upwards of a score sand martens seen in the evening, sporting over the marshes between Gulval and
Marizion, near Penzance. The wind at that time was N. W., and the thermometer stood on that day at
50 in the shade at noon.

i. A single bird seen in this parish ; one, and most probably the same, individual had been observed by
another person at the same place, on the 6th of April.

k. A single bird seen in Northamptonshire. In Warwickshire they were mostly gone by the 15th of
August ; one seen on the 20th.

I. A single bird seen at Birmingham. I had observed none since the 20th of October.

m. At Eastbourne, Sussex.

n. Two or three birds seen near London. Last seen in Warwickshire on the 15th of October. Mostly
gone by the 6th.

o. Two birds so high in the air that I could not be quite certain whether they were sand martens or
house martens, but believe them to have been the former. '

p. I am informed that a swallow was seen at Maxstoke Castle in this county on Nov. 11th.

c 2

20 Centrbtus Bennetii and Hardwickil

Let it be remembered, that it is the earliest and the latest
appearance of the several species of iiTirundo that are recorded
in the Table above, not that of the 7nain body of them. Of the
first three species, viz. swallow, marten, and sand marten, the
general flight does not usually appear till about the end^ of
April or beginning of May, and retires about the beginning
of October. Of the swifts the general flight may be stated
as arriving about the middle of May, and departing early in
August. Yours, &c.

JliesleT/ Rectory, Jug, 6. W. T. Bree.

Art. V. An Outline and Description of Centrbtus Bennetii and
Hardwickil, By the Rev. William Kirby, M. A. F. R. S.
L. S. &c.

Sir,
There are no tribes of animals, with the exception, per-
haps, of fishes, in which so much singularity and eccentricity
of form are observable, as in that of insects ; of this, examples
may be produced from almost every order, but in none is this
sportiveness more conspicuous than in the homopterous sec-
tion of the Hemiptera, especially in Fabricius's genus Cen-
trotus. Having received two insects that remarkably verify
this observation, from two very distant quarters of the globe,
one from General Hardwicke, well known for the spirit and.
talent with which he has collected and illustrated zoological
subjects in the East, and the other from Edward Bennet,
Esq., of Rougham Hall, in Suffolk, who collected insects with
singular assiduity in the West, at Choco, in Colombia, I
thought an outline and description of such strange forms
might amuse and interest some of your readers. I have added
to them four other figures of insects of the same genus, copied
from StolVs Cigales, a work in few hands, which are all calcu-
lated to excite astonishment in the mind of the beholder, who,
at first, would be disposed to doubt the existence of creatures
armed in so extraordinary and grotesque a manner. The only
conjecture one can form, with regard to the use of the appa-
ratus that distinguishes them, is that it is designed to deceive
their enemies, the birds, who may thus often be led to mistake
them for part of the spray of the tree or shrub on which they
feed.

Ce7iirdtus Bennetii, {Jig, 5, a) — Body not four lines
long, of a lurid colour, obscure ; rather hairy, hairs erect ;
thorax thickly punctate, with a compressed reflexed horn

Centrbtus Bennetu. and Hardwickiu

21

elevated above the head, and as long as the body, bifid at the
apex, and with an internal branch near the base ; behind this
is another shorter blunt horn, with a branch on each side ; the
scutellum near the end is also armed with a short blunt horn.
The tegmina and wings are veined longitudinally.
Countfy, Choco, in Colombia.

Centrbtus Hardwickn. (Jig, 5. b) — Body four and a half
lines long, brownish-black, sprinkled with short, decumbent,
inconspicuous hairs ; legs, except the thighs, paler than the
rest of the body ; thorax minutely punctate, elevated above
the head into a recurved quadrangular horn rather shorter
than the body, and terminating in a fork resembling a pair of
concavo-convex pedunculated pointed leaves ; scutellum length
of the body, punctate, acute, and elevated into a rounded lobe
near the apex. Tegmina naked, punctate, veined longitudi-
nally.

Country, Nepal, in the East Indies.

Centr5tus cruciatus IPah, {fig, 5, c) StolFs Cigales, pi. 2,
I. 8.

c v>^ a

Centrbtus globularis Fab, {Jig, 6. a) StolPs Cigales, pi. 28.
f. 163.

C 3

22 Natural History of Mollmcous Animals : —

Centrotus margiiiatus Fab, {Jig, 6, b) StolPs Cigales, pi.
11. f.53.

Centrotus c\k\\gev Fab, (Jlg,6,c) Stoll's Cigales, pi. 21.
f. 1 1 5. I am, Sir, yours, &c.

Barham, October 15. 1828. William Kirby.

Art. VI. The Natural History of MolltLSCOus Animals,
In a Series of Letters. By G. J.

Letter 1. Introduction,
Sir,

I AM not surprised at the pleasure you express having
received from the sight of the rich cabinet of Lady Con-
chylia. Shells, from the ease with which they can be pre-
served, from their elegance and beauty, have, at all times, been
favourite objects with collectors ; and as show was in general
the main object, so various methods were devised to heighten
their gloss, and unveil their hidden colours. Much of the
effect produced by Her Ladyship's splendid specimens is the
result of these artifices : but this childish amusement has
gradually given way to a more rational pursuit ; and while
shells are collected with greater eagerness than ever, it is with
the view of unfolding a page in the volume of creation; of
enlarging our knowledge of the structure and functions of
animated beings ; of satisfying a blameless curiosity concern-
ing the habits and purposes of creatures whom their Author
has pronounced to be all "very good;" of improving our
taste by the contemplation of the most beautiful and elegant
forms; and for the very interesting end of illustrating the
striicture of the earth, and chronicling its revolutions.

Naturalists, however, have now agreed that shells form no
isolated class of natural objects ; but that there are many ani-
mals destitute of a shell, which yet cannot be disjoined from
them without the grossest violation of nature. These, then,
we must not omit ; and, instead of the " History of Shells ''
you request, I shall attempt to give you that of the Mol-
Lu'scA, the name by which this class is now designated.

Molluscous animals have no internal articulated bones, nor
are their bodies divided into segments by any external fis-
sures. They are soft and fleshy ; either naked, or, more com-
monly, covered with a shell of one or more pieces. They have
no legs nor articulated members of any kind ; and they either
crawl on the earth, or swim in the water, by means of extended
portions of their skin, which can rarely claim a title to be

Introduction,

■•a;s*5s^«*?^

2a

called fins. The cuttle-fish and slug are examples which will
give you a general notion of the naked tribes ; and with the
great variety in the shelled species you are now familiar.

At the first glance, you might suppose that such creatures
can be productive neither of much benefit nor much injury to
man ; but a little detail will convince you that this would be
^4iasty conclusion.

V The catalogue of their " injuries," I must acknowledge, is
riot extensive. The slug (Z/imax) and snail (Helix hor-
tensis) {fig, l,a\ the gardener will inform you, frequently

destroy, and perhaps always more or less injure, his early
crops, while they mutilate and render disgusting the fruits of
autumn : but the farmer often finds them a more serious pest ;
for in spring they often issue, in inconceivable numbers, from
their concealments on a dewy eve, and feed upon the young
and tender crops. No kind of herbage seems unpalatable to
them, but to clovers they give a preference ; and the damage
they annually do to them and to turnips is really very great.
Many fields were this summer made barren by them, and
more ^ were so thinned as to require to be resown.

Of the marine tribes the Teredo navalis {Jig, 7. b\ or Ship-
worm, is the only one which has excited notice by its destruc-
tive powers. This shell-enclosed worm, which Linnaeus has
emphatically, yet not undeservedly, styled the " calamitas
navium,*' is said to have been introduced into our seas from
the East within little more than a century. They are now
common in all the seas of Europe ; and being gifted with the
power of perforating wood, they have done, and continue to
do, extensive mischief to ships, piers, and all submarine wooden
buildings. The soundest and hardest oak cannot resist them ;
but, in the course of four or five years, they will so drill it, as
to render its removal necessary, as has happened in the dock-
yard of Plymouth. In the years 1731 and 1732, the United

c 4

24 Natural History of Molluscous Animals : —

Provinces were under a dreadful alarm, for it was discovered
that these worms had made such depredations on the piles
which support the banks of Zealand, as to threaten them with
total destruction, and to claim from man what he had wrested
from the ocean. Fortunately they, a few years after, totally
abandoned that island, from causes unknown, but suspected
to be " from their not being able to live in that latitude when
the winter was rather severer than usual." But still they
might return ; and so a prize of value was offered to any one
who should discover a remedy against their attacks. What
answer was returned I am ignorant; but the method now
adopted to preserve the timbers necessarily used about the
docks at Plymouth is, to cover that part which is continually
under water with short broad-headed nails, which, in salt
water, soon cover every part with a strong coating of rust,
impenetrable to these animals.

You may think it rather ridiculous to speak of the direct
injuries such sluggish creatures, doomed to creep on the earth
or crawl in the waters, can inflict: and they are, in truth, a
harmless race, none of them being armed with any weapon of
offence ; yet, even from amongst them, has man sought the
means of aiding his vile purposes. The sea-hare, the jLepus
marinus of the ancients, familiar to classical readers, and once
famous in the annals of superstition, is a member of this class.
Modern naturalists call it Aphysia depilans. {Jig, 7. c) It is a
snail-like animal, of a purplish-brown colour, common on our
own shores, which, at pleasure, discharges from under its cloak
large quantities of a fluid of the richest purple colour. This
creature, it was once believed, held such antipathy to man,
that the mere touch of it would cause the hair to fall of, and
the sight of it was sufficient to subdue the obstinacy of con-
cealed pregnancy. That such an animal should supply a
potent poison is not wonderful; and accordingly we are told
that Nero mixed it with the food of those inimical to him, and
that with this poison Titus was despatched by Domitian. Its
operation was speedy, and inevitable destruction the effect :
yet it was not often used, as it was believed to betray itself by
some peculiar symptoms. (See Beckman's Hist, of Irweri-
tions, vol. i. p. 82.) And yet it is curious that, notwithstand-
ing all this has been said by very grave men, and very gravely
too, modern naturalists have proved it to be perfectly harm-
less, neither offensive to the smell, nor poisonous to the touch.
Some shell-fish, however, are really poisonous when eaten.
This is frequently the case with muscles (ikfytilus edulis). I
have known them to produce an itchy eruption and swelling
pver the whole body, attended with great anxiety and con-

Introduction. 25

siderable fever. On some parts of the Yorkshire coast they
are considered poisonous, and in consequence never eaten;
and several cases are on record in which their use proved
fatal. Some of Captain Vancouver's men having breakfasted
on roasted muscles, virere soon after seized with a numbness
about their faces and extremities ; their whole bodies were
shortly affected in the same manner, attended with sickness
and giddiness, and one died. In the month of June, 1827, a
great number of the poor in Leith were poisoned by eating
these shellfish, which they procured from the docks. "The
town," says Dr. Combe, " was in a ferment, and the magis-
trates, with great propriety, issued a warning against the use
of the muscles. Many deaths were reported, and hundreds
of individuals were stated to be suffering under it. Luckily,
matters were not so deplorable ; but we ascertained that, in
addition to the man mentioned before, the companion of our
patient, an elderly woman, had died. In all, about thirty cases
occurred, with great uniformity of symptoms, but varying very
much in severity ; but none, so far as I know, have left any
permanent bad effects." To what cause these deleterious
effects are to be ascribed is uncertain; for muscles, you are
aware, may commonly be eaten with impunity. Some attri-
bute them to disease in the fish, or to its being in a state of
putrefaction ; others to its having fed on some poisonous
articles, more particularly on the ores of copper ; and others,
again, to the peculiar idiosyncrasies of the sufferers. In many
cases this latter explanation will suffice ; but sometimes, as in
the Leith cases, it is obviously insufficient. The disease of
the fish has never been satisfactorily ascertained: they are
eaten fresh and alive, and cannot, of course, be putrid; while
the most delicate chemical tests give no indications of cupreous
impregnation. Upon the whole, the effects seem to be biest
explained by attributing them to a peculiar poison generated
in the fish, under unknown circumstances ; an opinion adopted
by those medical men who have attended most to the subject.
Now list ! One of the Mollusca actually doth attack man
vi et armis, I must beg you will, like a good-natured hero
of Mr. Crabbe's, dispose yourself " wonders to believe," and
be ready to grant

" That things improbable may still be true."

" A friend of mine," says Mr. Pennant, when speaking of
a kind of cuttle-fish (Octopus vulgaris), " long resident among
the Indian isles, and a diligent observer of nature, informed me
that the natives affirm that some have been seen two fathoms
broad over their centre, and each arm nine fathoms long.

S6 Geological Arrangement of British Fossil Shells,

When the Indians navigate their little boats, thet/ go in dread
of them ; and lest these animals should fling their arms over,
and sink them, they never sail without an axe to cut them off."
The same story is to be found in Pliny, but he of course was
not Mr. Pennant's friend ; and the following — fact, shall I
call it ? — adds to its credibility : — The celebrated diver,
Pescecola, whom the Emperor Frederic II. employed to de-
scend into the Strait of Messina, saw there, with horror,
enormous cuttle-fish attached to the rocks, the arms of which,
being sevei'al yards long, were more than sufficient to strangle
a man, (Malte-Brun^ Geogr,, pt. i. p. SI 6.)

., . ^ w., * .- I am, Sir, &c.

.>.,,• j.^:^-'. G. J.

Art. VII. An Attempt to form a Table of the Geological Arrange^
ment of British Fossil Shells, By R. C. Taylor, Esq. F.G.S.

V The following is an abstract of a more extended index,
constructed chiefly from the Minei'al Conchology of Mr. Sow-
erby, and from authentic details, after essential corrections in
the localities and formations. The genera are distinguished
under the four principal subdivisions of Simple Univalves,
Simple Bivalves, Complicated Bivalves, and Multilocular
Univalves. The species, for the purposes of the Table, can
only be enumerated in one formation, although they sometimes
appear to recur in several ; but it has been endeavoured to
inti'oduce them where they are most characteristic.

Having the Mineral Conchology for its basis, the list has been
carefully augmented by selections from such local catalogues
of fossils as have been communicated in the scientific journals
and Transactions, and in the publications of eminent natural-
ists ; and this has been done with the greater satisfaction,
since many of those lists, particularly those in the Transactions
of the Geological Society, were previously submitted to Mr.
. Sowerby.

Occasionally the compiler has been enabled to make some
additions and corrections from his own acquaintance with the
secondary formations. Care has been exercised to avoid re-
peating species which are already enumerated in Mineral
Conchology, and enlarging the catalogue without sufficient
authority. In most of the doubtful cases they have been
rejected altogether, and in others they are admitted into
the column of formations, but not into that of numbers
or species.

As several species, there is reason to believe, are distributed
throughout a series of beds (perhaps even of what are collect-

Geological Arrangement of British Fossil Shells, 2 7

ively styled formations), and a false estimate of number would
result from repetition, they have been arranged under those
formations which they more particularly characterise, where
they are most conspicuous, or whence they were originally
figured by Mr. Sowerby. The authorities for many of the
additional fossils are affixed.

The present is by no means offered to geologists as a per-
fect Stratigraphical Table. There is still much to add, and
much to correct ; but should it prove the means of eliciting a
more elaborate classification hereafter, by those better qualified
for the undertaking, the object of the writer will be fully at-
tained.

SIMPLE UNIVALVES.

Uif^Uli^.'

Genera.

Formations.

.S

Genera.

Formations.

.S

e2

^

^

k

6 Acteon

Lias (1, Coney beare)

Crag

1

(Tornatdlla)

Upper oolite (Ancliffe)

2

2

Bulimus

Upper fresh water

2

London clay

2

3

Cancellaria -

London clay

3

Crag -

2

3

Cassis

London clay

2

7

Ampullaria -

Mountain limestone.

Crag

1

and cornbrash -

1

9

Cerithium -

London clay

6

[nferior oolite (3 spe-

Plastic clay

3

cies, Coney beare)

1

9

Cirrus

Mountain limestone

2

London clay

: 4

Lower oolite

3

Upper marine, I.W. ?

1

Gault

1

Crag, 1? - -

Upper and lower chalk

4Ancllla - 1

Forest jnarble (2 spe-

2 (1, Mantell) -

3

cies. Smith ?) -

1

3

Conus

London clay

3

London clay

2

4

Cy^TCB'a -

London clay

1

London clay, and up-

Crag - -

3

per marine

1

10

Dentalium -

Upper lias clay

1

1 A'ncylus

Lower fresh water

1

Lower green sand -

—

7 Auricula

Lower green sand -

1

Gault

2

Upper green sand \
Chalk marl ]

Upper green sand -

1

1

Chalk marl, and Lon-

London clay

2

don clay

1

Crag

3

London clay

4

3j?alanus

Chalk (Mantell) -

1

Crag

1

1

Crag

2

1

Dolium

Chalk

1

eBellerophon

Mountain limestone

6

1

Eburna

Crag

1

26^uccinum -

Mountain limestone

4

(^uccinum)

Brora coal measures

5

Emarginula

Inferior oolite

3

Great oolite

1

London clay, and crag

1

Upper green sand (T.)

1

Crag -

1

Woolwich and upper

8

Euomphalus

Mountain limestone

7

marine, L of Wight

1

Upper oolite

1

London clay

4

1

Fissurella -

Crag

1

Crag

15

13

Fusus

London clay

11

6

Bulla

London clay

5

Crag

2

28

Geological Arrangemetit of British Fossil Shells,

SIMPLE VNIYALVES — continued.

^

Genera.

Formations.

^

Genera.

Formations.

6.

H

c»

H

m

4

Helicina

Lias

Marly sandstone

3

Plastic clay, 1 ? -
London clay

4

above lias

I

Crag

5

5

H^lix

Mountain limestone ?
Upper green sand
Lower fresh water,
Isle of Wight -

1

1

1

8

iVerita

Mountain limestone
Inferior oolite J)
Inferior oolite of >
Sutherland )

I
2

5

Infundibulum

Plastic clay

1

Great oolite

2

(Caljptrea)

London clay

3

Stonesfield slate, 2

—

Crag

1

Portland limestone

1

6

Limn^a

Fresh water, I. of W.,
upper and lower

6

London clay
London clay, and up-

1

11

Melania

Mountain limestone

1

per marine
Woolwich beds

1

Lias and coral rag -

1

2

Neritina

Inferior oolite - 2

IsleofSkye?

Upper oolite, Port-

Plastic clay, and ►

2

land coral rag, and

upper marine

Kimmeridge beds

1

Lower fresh water _

Weald clay

2

2

Oliva

London clay

2

Upper green sand ?

—

1

O'vula

Crag

1

London clay

1

11

Patella

Lias — alum shale

1

Upper marine, 1 -

Great oolite

2

Lower fresh water

3

Stonesfield slate -

1

4

Melanopsis -

Woolwich bed, upper
marine, and lower
fresh water

Upper and lower fresh

Forest marble
Oxford or clunch clay
Gault, and green sand
London clay

1
1
1
1

water

2

Crag

3

Upper and lower fresh

3

Paludina -

Purbeck beds >
Hastings sands 5

water, and upper

(originally

1

marine

1

Vivipara)

Weald clay, and Sus-

5

Mitra

London clay

5

sex marble

1

11

Potamides -

Woolwich bed (Ce-
rithia?), and upper
marine

Lower fresh water,

3

IsleofSkye

Upper and lower fresh

water, and upper

marine

1

Isle of Wight -

2

3

Phasian^Ua -

Fresh water, L of W.

3

Upper marine forma-

2

Pileolus -

Upper oolite
Mountain limestone?

2

tion

6

7

Planorbis -

1

36

ikfurex

Mountain limestone

1

Lower oolite ? >
Upper green sand ? )

1

Oolite and pisolite

1

Upper green sand

2

Upper green sand ?

1

Woolwich beds -

2

Woolwich beds -

1

London clay

19

Lower fresh water

3

Upper marine, I.of W.

1

11

Pleurdtoraa -

London clay

10

Crag, and Woolwich

London clay, and up-

beds

—

per green sand -

1

Crag .

9

2

Pyrula

London clay

2

11

Natica

Mountain limestone

14

Rostellaria

Inferior oolite(Coney-

(Miller)

—

(^trombus)

beare)

3

Lower green sand

1

Kelloway stone, and

Upper green sand

I

-

cornbrash

\

Geological Arrangement of British Fossil Shells,
SIMPLE UNIVALVES-^ continued.

29

Genera.

Scalaria

Seraphs
S^rpula

1 Sigaretus
5 Solarium

1 Terebellum
25 TVochus

Formations.

Oxford clay, and

Brora limestone
Forest marble
Lower green sand,

with two others -
Upper green sand -
Gault,and chalk marl

(Mantell)
Plastic clay, and Lon-
don clay
London clay
Crag, and sand of

plastic clay
London clay
Crag

London clay
Lias, Kimmeridge
Inferior oolite
Fuller*s earth rock
Cornbrash, Forest

marble
Clay of great oolite

(2, Smith)
Coral rag, green
Sand, and London

clay
Upper chalk
Above the upper fresh

water, Isle of Wight

(T.)
Lower fresh water, 1
London clay
Portland limestone
London clay
London clay
Blue lias, and lias

marl
Inferior oolite (and 2

others)
Fuller's earth ?
Clay over great oolite

(2, Smith)
Coral rag
Kimmeridge clay (l.

Smith)
Portland rock
Gault, 1 (1, Man

tell)

10

11

14

Genera.

Formations.

14

Upper chalk, 2 (2,

De la Beche)
London clay
Crag

Crag and lias
Turbo - Mountain limestone

Lias (De la Beche)
Under oolite
Coral rag
Kimmeridge clay (l.

Smith)
Upper green sand -
London clay
Crag

Turritella - Mountain limestone
Lias shale ?
Inferior oolite (3, Co-
neybeare and Smith)
Stonesfield slate ?
Coral rag, and shelly
limestone of Brora
Forest marble, and

clay ? -
Upper green sand
Plastic clay ? (Coney-

beare)
London clay
London clay, and crag
Vermicularia Inferior oolite *»
(or Vermetus) Upper oolite, and
Portland
Coral rag

Lower green sand -
Upper green sand -
Chalk marl, and chalk

(1, Mantell)

London clay

Vivfpara - Weald clay, and mar-

(afterwards ble

Paludina) Fresh water (lower

and upper)

Crag, doubtful

Voluta - London clay

London clay, and up-
per marine
Crag

Upper marine ?
Volvaria - London clay

I

30

Geological Arrangement of British Fossil Shells,

SIMPLE BIVALVES.

d-

5*-i'

d.

«4^

l«

Geniera.

Formations.

d.

en

Genera.

Formations.

d.

^

CB

H

cc

1

Anomia

London clay
Mountain limestone

1

Inferior oolite, marl

10

A'rca

1

stone, and corn-

Magnesian limestone

1

brash

1

Oolite, and pisolite

2

Fuller's earth rock

Gault

1

(Smith)

—

Upper green sand -

1

Cornbrash, and Kello-

Plastic clay

1

ways

1

London clay

1

Great oolite

2

.

Crag

2

Kimmeridge clay (1,

22

Astarte

Lias
Inferior oolite

1
4

Smith)
Lower green sand

—

Superior oolite

3

(Martin)

1

Brora limestone, and

Upper green sand -

1

grit of Dunrobin

—

London clay

1

Clay above oolite -

1

21

Cardium

Mountain limestone

3

Stonesfield slate, 1

Brora coal shale -

1

Oxford clay, and Kel-

Robin Hood*s bay
Fuller's earth ? (Sm.)

1

loway stone

1

—

Oxford clay

1

Kimmeridge clay (2,

Portland beds

1

Smith)

—

-

Lower green sand -
Upper green sand -
London clay

1
1

Brora, Portland rock,

calcareous grit -
Weald clay, and Lon-

1

Crag

6

don clay

1

Diluvium

1

Upper green sand -
Chalk marl, gault

5

12

Avicula

Lias slate, Kelloway,

1

Sutherland lime-

Plastic clay, and Lon-

stone, and Stones-

don clay

1

field slate

2

London clay

3

Cornbrash, and Ox-

Bagshot sand ?

—

ford clay

1

Crag

4

Inferior oolite, and-j

Clay above great oo-

clay on upper /

2

9

Chkma

lite (3, Smith) -

—

oolite f

Kelloway stone, and

Kimmmdge clay J
Stonesfield slate -

green sand

1

2

Kimmeridge clay, and

Upper green sand (l,
Taylor; 1 Murchi-

coral rag

2

Upper green sand -

5

son)

1

London clay

1

Oxford clay, and Lon-

London clay

1

don clay

1

1

Clavag<^lla -

Calcareous grit ? -

I

Lower green sand -

3

1

Corbis

Sandstone above Bro-

2

Axinus

Magnesian limestone
London clay

1
1

13

Cdrbula -

ra coal
Lower green sand

1

14

Cardita

Lias, and cornbrash

1

(1, Mantell) -

2

(since subdi-

Brora limestone -

1

Upper green sand -

3

vided into

Brora limestone, and

London clay -

3

Cardita and

Stonesfield slate

1

Upper marine

2

Pholadomya)

Inferior oolite

4

'

Crag

2

Geological Arrangertient of British Fossil Shells, 31

SIMPLE mSfklNE^-' continued.

d.

«*-*

D,

«4^*

U3

Genera.

Formations.

d.

M

Genera.

Formations.

O

H

CC

H

CC

1

Crania

Chalk

1

Stonesfield slate, 2

__

3

Crassat^lla -

Lower green sand
(Mantell)

1

Inferior oolite
Calcareous grit J)

1

London clay

2

Grit of Dunrobin >

l]

Bagshot sand, 2 spe-

Kimmeridge clay )

cies

—

Lower green sand -

2

1

Crenatula -

Lias, inferior oolite.

Upper green sand -

2

and Portland

1

Upper chalk

1 i

14

Cucullae'a -

Inferior oolite

5

2

Hippopodium

Lias, 1 (1, Coney-

1

Brora limestone ? 2

2

beare) -

4

Great oolite (Ancliffe)

2

16

Inoc^ramus

Mountain limestone

i[

Lower green sand

Alum shale

: 1'

(Mantell)

1

Inferior oolite

_'

Upper green sand -

5

Lower green sand (l,
De la Beche; 1,

Upper green sand, and

chalk -

1

Martin) -

2

Plastic clay ? 1 -

• —

Chalk, and upper

9

Cyclas

Isle of Skye (Murchi-

green sand

4

(Cyr^na.)

son)
Weald clay, and Hast-
ings sandstone and

3

Gault, and upper

green sand
Chalk marl (Mantell)

3
2

grit, Purbeck -

3

Upper chalk
Mountain limestone

3

Plastic clay, and

10

Isocardia

1

Woolwich beds -

3

Upper oolite

1

Upper marine,!, of W.

—

Cornbrash

2

Lower fresh water, 2

—

Kelloway stone -

1

1

Cypri*

1 '.

Purbeck, Weald "j

clay, and marble
Lower fresh water, >

Upper green sand (T.J
London clay
Crag

3

1
I

Isle of Wight

4

Lima

Lias, inferior oolite.

Hastings beds J

marly sandstone.

3

Dianchora -

•

Upper green sand -
Lower chalk, and up-
per
Upper chalk

great oolite

Oxford clay, and corn-
brash

Coral rag, and Stones-
field s ate

2

1

2

Gastrochae'na

Sandstone, Robin

1

Hood*s Bay

3

Llngula

Coal shale

1

London clay

London clay

1

7

Gervillm (and

Cornbrash, and Brora

Diluvium

1

P^rna)

limestone
Inferior oolite, and

2

6

Lucina

Lias ? (De la Beche)
Calcareous grit, Brora
oolite series

1

clunch or Oxford

1

i

clay

2

Lower green sand -

2

i

Lower green sand -

3

London clay

1

15

Gryphae'a -

Lias,l.ofPabba,Mull,

Lower fresh water

1

and Kelloway

2

Crag

1

Lias

2

8

Lutraria

Lias? "1

Marl stone, 1

—

Inferior oolite

Fuller's earth rock
Inferior oolite -j
Clunch clay, 2 /

1
3

Marly sandstone 1
Upper oolite
Cornbrash

4

1

Marly sandstone f"

Portland series

1

Portland freestone J

Fuller's earth

1

32

Geological Arrangement of Britkh Fossil Shells,
SIMPLE BIVALVES — continued.

6.

.^.

d.

c*^

w

Genera.

Formations.

n,

M

Genera.

Formations.

D-

H

m

H

^

Upper green sand -

Upper marine

1

Lower chalk

Lower and upper fresh

London clay

water

1

4

Mactra

Crag

1

Myocdncha -

Inferior oolite

1

1

Magas

Upper chalk
Mountain limestone

11

ilijtilus

Coal shale

1

1

Megalodon -
Modiola

Great oolite

1

20

Lias, and alum shale

Stonesfield slate -

1

Lias, Brora oolite.

Cornbrash

1

and green sand -

2

Kimmeridge clay -

1

Inferior oolite (5,

Upper green sand -

2

Smith) and sand-

Crag

2

stone

2

Lower fresh water

2

Stonesfield slate, and

20

Nucula

Mountain limestone

1

green sand

1

Lias, and alum shale

1

Cornbrash

3

Great oolite

3

Fuller's earth (three

Lower green sand

others, Smith) -

1

(Martin)

1

Clay of great oolite

Gault

2

. (3, Smith)

—

Upper green sand -

3

Kimmeridge clay (l.

London clay

4

Smith

—

Upper marine,I. of W.

1

Dunrobin grit, and

Crag _

3

upper green sand

Diluvium

1

Portland rock, and

4

Orbicula -

Lias — alum shale

1

Stonesfield slate

Lower oolite

1

Lower green sand -

Oxford clay

1

Gault?

Lower green sand

London clay

(Martin)

1

18

il/^a

Lias, Kelloway rock,
and Isle of Skye

Upper green sand
(1, Mantell)

Fuller's earth rock

26

(Tstrea

Lias

1

f

Inferior oolite
Brora limestone, and

Scarborough
Oxford clay, and

Brora
Oxford clay
Forest marble
Lower green sand (2,

Martin)
Gault, and upper

green sand
Inferior oolite, upper

green sand, and

London clay
Plastic clay, and lower

fresh water
London clay
London clay, and

lower fresh water

1

Inferior oolite, (6, J)
Coneybeare j 4, >
Smith) )

Inferior oolite, fuller's
earth, clay of great
oolite (3, Smith),
ferruginous sand of
Woburn, and upper
oolite (Ancliffe)

Upper oolite

Stonesfield slate, 2.

Cornbrash, forest mar-
ble, and great oolite
(3, Smith)

Oxford clay

Oxford clay, Kimme-
ridge, Brora coal
field, and diluvium

Coral rag, and upper

2

2
2

1
1

Crag

5

green sand

1

Geological Arrangement of British Fossil Shells.
SIMPLE BIVALVES — continued.

33

p-

Genera.

Formations.

p.

Genera.

Formations.

r-"

c» "

H

rjl

Portland beds

1

Crag

1

Weald clay and I. of

Pholadomya,

Skye (Dr. Fitton

see Cardita.

and Mr. Murchison)

1

7

Pinna

Lias

Lower green sand

Inferior oolite, and

(with 2 others) -

1

cornbrash

1

Upper chalk, 2 (l,De

Stonesfield slate, 1

—

la Beche)

3

Oxford clay, and up-

Plastic clay

5

per green sand -

1

London clay

3

Lias, Kimmeridge clay.

Crag

1

and Isle of Skye
Weald clay?(l, Man-

1

Upper marine, Isle of

Wight? -

tell)

1

Pachymya -

Lower chalk

1

Lower green sand

45

P^cten

Mountain limestone

2

(Murchison)

1

Coal measures

1

London clay

3

Lias, and Scottish isles

2

19

Plagiostoraa

Lias, and inferior

Inferior oolite, marl

oolite

3

stone, cornbrash, 1,

Lias, Dunrobin grit

1

Forest marble (5,

Fuller's earth

1

Smith), Kelloway

Upper oolite and clay,

rock, great oolite

and Stonesfield slate

1

and clay, clay above

Cornbrash, and upper

great oolite (2,

oolite

1

Smith), and coral

Upper oolite

1

rag

6

Brora stone

2

Brora stone

3

Coral rag, and calca-

Cornbrash

3

reous grit

1

Stonesfield slate -

1

Kelloway rock

1

Forest marble, and

Portland series, and

coral rag

1

inferior oolite -

3

Portland beds, and

Upper green sand, and

upper green sand

1

chalk marl

1

Lower green sand (l.

Firestone (l, T.)

Martin)

1

Lower chalk, 1 (l,

Gault, and chalk marl

Mantell)

2

(1, Martin)

5

Upper chalk, l (i.

Upper green sand -

5

Mantell), and dilu-

Chalk

1

vial flints

2

London clay

4

4

Plicatula

Lias

1

Bagshot sand series

—

(Harpax)

Oxford clay

2

Crag _

9

Upper green sand,

■

Diluvial

1

chalk, and gault,

10

Pectunculus -

Great oolite series

2

(1, Mantell; 1, De

Upper green sand -

2

la Beche)

1

Plastic clay

1

1

Podopsis

Upper green sand (De

London clay

4

la Beche)

1

Crag

1

1

Psamniobia -

Upper marine forma-

Pern a, see

tion, I. of Wight

1

Gervillfff

5

Sanguinolaria

Mountain limestone

1

1

Petricola

Crag

1

Lias, Scotland

1

2

Pholas
Vol. IL — 1

Green sand (lower ?)
^o.6.

.

D

Brora coal shale -

1

S4

Geological Arrarigement of British Fossil Shells.
SIMPLE BIVALVES ^continued.

s-

Genera.

Formations.

^ Genera.

Formations. d.

H

:^

H

cc

3

Saxicava

London clay

2

Upper chalk, and Lon-

Upper green sand (T.)

—

don clay

1

Crag

1

2

Thetis

Lower green sand -

1

5

Solen

London clay

1

Upper green sand -

1

London clay (one

21

Trigonia

[nferior oolite

6

larger species, T.)

—

Stonesfield slate -

1

Crag, T.

2

Inferior oolite, ful-"

1

Sphae^ra

Portland rock

1

ler's earth (4,

10

Tellina

Lower green sand
(Martin

2

The same re-

Smith)
Clay, Forest marble

Upper green sand -

2

marks ap-

(2, Smith)
Cornbrash, Kimme-

2

London clay

5

ply to these

Crag _ -

3

species as to

ridge clay, and

87

Terrebratula

Mountain limestone

18

the Terre-

Kelloway stone
(3, Smith) J

Coal shale

1

bratulse.

Magnesian limestone,

Clay of great oolite, 1

—

1 - -

Brora sandstone, in-

Lias

4

ferior oolite, corn-

Marly sandstone -

5

brash, and Portland

1

Inferior oolite

13

Portland stone

2

Fuller's earth rock

4

Teignmouth stone

1

Fuller's earth rock,

Lower green sand -

2

and Stonesfield slate

1

Upper green sand (6)

5

Several species

Great oolite

1

Upper green sand,anc

are probably

Clay over great oolite

chalk -

1

common to

(5, Smith)

5

10

Venericardia

Lower green sand?

—

many stra-

Cornbrash

5

London clay

5

ta, but can

Cornbrashand Stones-

Crag^

4

only be class-

field slate

1

Plastic clay, alum bay

1

ed in the

Kelloway stone, corn-

19

V^nu*

Brora coal measures

—

one in which

brash, and lias -

1

(Cytherea)

Cornbrash

1

they are most

Calcareous grit (iron

Lower green sand -

1

conspicuous.

sand)ofFarringdon,

Upper green sand -

7

&c. - -

6

London clay

6

Kimmeridge clay, and

Crag

4

IsleofSkye

1

17

U^nio

Coal shale

1

Lower green sand -

1

Coal shale, and corn

Kentish rag, and lower

brash

1

green sand

1

Magnesian limestone

'

Gault

2

inferior oolite, an(

Chalk marl

4

sandstone C3,Smith
Lias, and Portlanc

) 2

Upper green sand -

5

Diluvium of upper

stone

1

green sand ?

2

Inferior oolite

1

Chalk -

8

Cornbrash

1

London clay, chalk

Hastings beds, Tilgatc

;

marl, and green

and Weald clay -

7

sand

1

Plastic clay (Mantell

) 1

Crag

1

Crag (and 1 ?) -

1

1

Terhdo

Upper green sand ?

—

Lower fresh water

1

Geological An^angement of British Fossil Shells.
COMPLICATED BIVALVES.

35

Genera.

Formations.

g-

Genera,

Formations.

in

17

1

1

H

3
29

Pentameriis -
Producta -

Mountain and transi-
tion limestone -
Mountain limestone
Magnesian limestone
Limestone shale, and
coal measures -

3
19

3

7

19

Spirifer
(Anomites)

Mountain limestone
Magnesian limestone
Lias, and mountain
lime

MULTILOCULAR UNIVALVES.

134

Ammonites

Mountain limestone

1

6

Lower chalk

6

Coal shale

2;

-

Upper chalk, 2 (l,

Lias, and alum shale

31!

Mantell)

3

Lias of Western Isles,

i

London clay, Minster

Scotland

3

cliffs (qu. diluvial?)

1

Clay under lower

i

Diluvial, and sites not

oolite

5

identified

5

Marlstone(I4,Smith)

6

1

Ampldxus* -

Mountain limestone

1

Inferior oolite, great

2

Baculites

Upper green sand -

1

oolite

1

Lower chalk )
Grey chalk marl (

Inferior oolite, and

1

contiguous strata.

15

Belemnites

Lias, and lias clay -

4

including the Brora

Lias, shale, east coast

coal field (21 spe-

of Scotland, Isle of

cies in this series)

17

Skye, inferior oolite

2

Fuller*s earth rock? 2

Inferior oolite, Dun-

Cornbrash, and lias

1

robin grit, Brora

Kelloway rock

3

and Oxford clay

1

Oxford clay

2

Fuller's earth rock

—

Calcareous sand and

Inferior oolite, and

grit

4

marly sandstone

5

Coral rag

3

Clay of great oolite, 1

—

Kimmeridge clay, 3 ')

Stonesfield slate -

1

Kimmeridge clay, >

4

Lower green sand

and Portland, 1 )

(T.) - -

1

Portland series

3

Gault, or blue marl

2

Weald clay beds -

1

Chalk

1

Iron sand of Wo- "^

1

Beloptera -

London clay

1

burn V

1

2

Conularia -

Mountain Hraestoue

2

Lower green sand )

19

Hamites

Lower green sand -

2

Lower green sand (3,

Upper green sand, and

Martin and Mur-

chalk marl

1

chison)

1

Upper chalk (2, Man-

Chalk marl

8

tell)

2

Gault

7

Chalk marl

2

Upper green sand -

9

Gault

12

Green sand (De la

N2

Nautilites -

Mountain limestone

11

Beche)

1

1

Blue lias

3

A coralloid rather than a multilocular shell?
D 2

36 Geological Arrangemeiit of British Fossil Shells,

MULTILOCULAR UNIVALVES — continued.

Q.

C4J 1 Q-l 1 1^ 1

\t

Genera.

Formations.

p.

CO

Genera.

Formations.

c.

H

CO

^

c«

Inferior oolite

5

Bagshot sand ?

Fuller's earth rock, 1

13

Orthoce-

Mountain limestone

9

Upper oolite, and cal-

ratites

Lias

I

careous grit

1

Limestone shale, and

Stonesfield slate ?

coal shale

2

Kimmeridge clay -

—

Mountain limestone,

Coral rag

1

and alum shale -

1

Upper green sand -

s

4

Scaphites

Lias, Yeovil

1

Upper green sand, and

Chalk marl (2, Man-

chalk marl

2

tell)

2

Chalk marl

1

Chalk

1

Gault

1

4

Turrilites

Upper green sand, and

Chalk (2, De la

gault

1

Beche)

Upper green sand -

1

London clay

4

Chalk marl

2

3

Nuramu-

Green sand ?

Chalk (1, De la

lites

London clay

5

Beche)

—

■* We are thus made acquainted with the geognostical distri-
bution of about thirteen hundred fossil Testacea; and from
the caution employed in the foregoing classification, these are
probably considerably short of the actual number known to
collectors, without including the varieties, or the many unpub-
lished species, perhaps even several genera, remaining in the
cabinets of individuals. Had Mr. Farcy's suggestion been
adopted, of naming the shells in each stratum separately, and
of treating them as distinct species or varieties, as often as they
occurred in successive beds, their amount would, by this time,
have been so great as to counterbalance any supposed useful
result. Even now, the opinion is not wholly abandoned by
some of our best naturalists, that distinct fossil species are
peculiar to each formation.

But it has been held, and apparently with some reason,
that too much stress is laid on insignificant distinctions,
whereby an unnecessary increase of species has arisen, pro-
ductive of no slight embarrassment to the student, and of little
adequate benefit to the practical geologist.

It results from the foregoing investigation, that the follow-
ing series of fossil shells are known to English naturalists : —

Simple univalves 58 genera, which comprise 401 species.

Simple bivalves 62 - - - 583 ■

Complicated bivalves 3 - - - 51

Multilocular univalves 12 - - - 230

J35

1265

Geological Arrangement of British Fossil Shells, 37

From data so ample, we can now obtain accurate notions of
the geological position of certain groups of shells ; of the rela-
tive proportion of the different classes, and of how far theii
structure has been influenced by different degrees of antiquity.
To render this analysis more complete, it may be useful to
make three principal divisions of the formations containing
organic remains. The first is the most ancient series ; the
second, or middle, division contains the remainder of the
secondary strata; and the third consists of the tertiary
deposits.

The first, which is also the lowest or most ancient division, may be
subdivided into two series of formations.

1. Carboniferous order
of Mr. Coneybeare. .

2. From the carboniferous
to the Has, inclusive.

Species 27 Simple univalves - 9 species.

34 Simple bivalves - 53

46 Complicated bivalves 5

53 Multilocular univalves 50

140

97

The second^ or middle, division, from
the lias upwards, includes the entire
oolite series, and the strata up to the
chalk, inclusive.

Simple univalves 106 species.

Simple bivalves 375

Complicated bivalves 0
Multilocular univalves 139

620

The thh'dy or most recent, divi-

sion, comprises all
the chalk, or the
tions.

the beds above
tertiary forma-

Simple univalves
Simple bivalves
Complicated bivalves
Multilocular univalves

259 species*
141

O

8

408 .:

In treating on the order of arrangement of shells in the
several formations, Mr. Parkinson was struck with the fact,
that the shells of the most ancient formations exceed, in com-
plexity of structure, those in the subsequent strata, and in our
present seas. It is in this early creation, also, he observed
that those shells are found which possess " that complicated
structure, very rarely found in the shells of this day, which
enabled their inhabitants to rise and sink with them in the
water." Of this latter class are the numerous race of many-
chambered univalves, the Nautilites, the Ammonites, and Or-
thoceratites ; and of the class of complicated bivalves are the
Spirifers, and the genera Pentamerus and Productus.

Our Table furnishes the means of at once comparing the
numbers which existed in each class, during separate periods
or geological intervals.

D S

38 Geological Arrangement of British Fossil Shells,

Second and Third Divisions.
First Division, maining strata, above tlie

Ancient strata, including lias. lias, up to diluvium. :

Species 36 Simple univalves - 565 species.

67 Simple bivalves - 516

J 51 Complicated bivalves ^ i 147

^83 Multilocular univalves 1473

237 1028

It will thus be perceived that the number of complex spe-
cies in the first division is nearly equal to those in the im-
mense series of succeeding strata, 134 being peculiar to the
lowest, and 147 to the remainder. But the individuals are
infinitely more numerous in the older strata than in the later,
and give a more decided character to those formations than
appears from a comparison of genera or species ; and the class
of complicated bivalves is wholly limited to this older division.
The difference is yet more striking when we compare the first
with the third division; the simple univalves in the former
being to those in the latter in the proportion of 1 to 7 ; but the
complicated species, in the same divisions, are in the reverse
ratio nearly of 17 to 1.

On comparing the proportions which the classes of shells
under each division bear to each other, differences equally
remarkable are observable. Thus the univalves in the first
division are to the complex species as 1 to 4 ; in the second, as
1 to Ij only; and, in the third, as 32 to 1.

In concluding this summary, we may repeat, as a general
rule, that the ancient formations are characterised by compli-
cated shells, the middle series by bivalves, and the upper by
simple univalves.

In illustration of the habits of two great classes of testaceous
Mollusca, the investigation of Mr. Dillwyn developes some
unexpected differences in their modes of existence; and the sub-
ject is the more interesting, as being singularly confirmatory
of other essential changes observed in the structure of ante-
diluvian animals, at different epochs or stages of the creation.

This examination is limited to the turricuiated univalves, of
which our list contains 337 species.

All those Mollusca whose shells have a notch or canal at
the base of their apertures, are furnished with the pov/er of
perforating shells, and other hard substances, by means of a
retractile proboscis. In Lamarck's arrangement of invertebral
animals they form a section of the Trachelipodes, under the
name of

ZoSphages. — On comparing Lamarck's list of carnivorous
or predaceous genera with our present Table, it will appear

Geological Arrangement of British Fossil Shells, 39

that, in the English formations, this class comprises 22 genera,
and .171 species. These abound in our tertiary strata, and
are extremely rare in the secondary formations : in fact, only
18 species have been detected lower than the plastic clay.
They may, therefore, be considered as appertaining to, if not
wholly characteristic of, the tertiary formations ; and many of
the genera are continued in our present seas. The numerous
perforations, both in recent shells, and in those abounding in
the beds above the chalk, are the work of these animals.

In all the other genera of turbinated univalves, the lower
margin of the aperture, instead of being either notched or
channelled, is entire. Mr. Dillwyn describes the MoUusca of
these shells as having jaws, which are formed for feeding upon
vegetable substances, and as entirely herbivorous ; the marine
genera feeding on ^''Igae, and the fresh-water and land genera
on the leaves of vegetables and aquatic plants. These con-
stitute the other section of Trachelipodes, called by Lamarck

Phylliphages, — Of these shells, forming the herbivorous
class, 22 genera and 168 species are distributed through the
secondary and tertiary formations ; and it will be observed
that in the aggregate of genera and species, in each of these
great sections, there is a remarkable correspondence. This
uniformity of numbers is not maintained so closely in the de-
tail, when we arrange the members of these sections according
to our three geological divisions.

Turbinated^ or Turriculated, Univalves,

ZOOPHAGES,

or testaceous Mollusca of the carni-
vorous class.
Species.
3 comprised in the lowest, or most
ancient division, of strata con-
taining organic remains.
13 in the secondary formations, or
middle division,
153 in the tertiary formations, or
upper division.

171

Genera.
2 originated in the lowest division.
1 originated in the middle divi-
sion.
19 originated in the highest division,
or tertiary beds.

22

Phylli'phages,
or testaceous Mollusca of the herbi-
vorous class.
Species.
24 in the lowest division, carboni-
ferous formations.
65 in the secondary formations
(between the mountain lime-
stone and the chalk).
81 in the highest division (beds
above the chalk).

168

Genera,
12 originated in the most ancient
division.
5 others added in the middle divi-
sion.
5 more added in the upper division.

22

D 4

40 Geological Arrangement of British Fossil Shells,

There remain about 62 species of fossil univalves which are
not turbinated.

Hence it will be perceived that the turbinated univalves
of the older strata or rocks belong almost entirely to the
herbivorous family, 12 genera having originated there, which
have been perpetuated through all the successive strata,
and still inhabit our waters ; that in the middle series of
formations, this preponderance of animals possessing similar
habits was preserved ; and that, in the last series, after the
chalk was deposited, this order was suddenly reversed, in the
proportion of 5 to ] 9.

Mr. Dillwyn observed that all the marine Trachelipodes, of
the herbivorous tribes, in the ancient strata, are furnished with
an operculum, seemingly intended as a protection against the
Cephalopodes, or carnivorous order of NauUYi, Ammonites, &c.,
which, at that time, abounded in the seas. After the epoch
of the extinction of this order (which terminated chiefly with
the chalk), numerous unoperculated genera appear, as if no
longer requiring such a shield to protect them from an extinct
enemy. As carnivorous turbinated univalves were, almost en-
tirely absent from the strata w^hich contained the Ammonites,
the iVautilidiae, and the Belemnites, so the extinction of these
immensely numerous tribes, being also carnivorous, or preda-
ceous, was counterbalanced by the creation of a multitude of
new genera, possessed of similar appetences.

Recurring again to our table for illustration of these positions,
we observe that only 3 genera and 18 species of carnivorous
turbinated univalves were coeval with the Cephalopodes, com-
prising 200 species, in the secondary formations ; but that the
same strata contained 17 gen. and 87 species of Phylliphages.

When the Cephalopodes ceased with the chalk, at the
same time with the numerous families of fossil ^chinidiae, the
Trigoniae, and nearly all the Terrebratulae, they were re-
placed by 19 genera and 153 new" species of Zoophages.

As we have the materials before us, and as the enquiry is
not devoid of interest, it may be worth while to compare the
existing classes of shells with corresponding series in the an-
tediluvian creation.

Testaceous Mollusca of the pre-
sent world, ascertained from the
Index Testaceologicus of Mr.
Wood, last edition

Species of British fossil shells,
heretofore described, dispersed
throughout the entire range of
the formations

Simple
Univalves.

Bivalves and
Multivalves,

Multilocular
Univalves.

Species.

Species.

Species.

1961

874

58

401

634

230

Total

Species.

2895
1265

New Species of Trildbite, 41

In the aggregates thus exhibited, there is an apparent want
of conformity in the relative proportions of each class. This
wholly arises from the extinct genera of the ancient strata ; for,
on making the comparison between the recent series and those
of the latest group of deposits, no such difference will be per-
ceived. On the contrary, a considerable agreement between
the proportions of existing species and the several classes of
fossil shells in the tertiary beds prevails ; the average increase
of numbers being about sevenfold.

If we follow the investigation further, we may observe that
the fossil multilocular and complicated Testacea, which charac-
terise the oldest formations, and decidedly preponderate in
that end of the series, form one fifth part of the entire cata-
logue; but, amongst the recent shells, this class constitutes less
than a fortieth part, and in the tertiary series only a fiftieth
part.

The conclusion to be drawn from a summary of facts more
numerous, and on a more extended scale than, until recently,
has been attainable in this department of natural history, is,
that in proportion as we descend the vast series of deposits
that overspread this portion of the earth, so do we recede,
step by step, from the circle of existing organised beings, and
from the phenomena attendant on their structure, their habits,
and their adaptations.

R. C. T.
February, 1829.

Art. VIII. An Account of a neiv Species of Trilobite, found in
the Barr Limestone in the Neighbourhood of Birmingham. By
Frederick Jukes, Esq. With a Note by J. D. C. Sowerby,
Esq. «.,

Sir, '

Allow me to present to you the enclosed drawings of a
curious fossil {Jigs. 8, 9, 10.), discovered in the lime quarries at
Hay Head, near Great Barr, a village about nine miles from
this town. It appears to be of the Trilobite kind, retaining a
considerable quantity of a fine crustaceous covering of a dark
brown colour, and highly polished. The drawings represent its
exact size, measuring in length about 5 in., and in width S\ in.,
being much larger than fossils of that character usually found
in this country. The Trilobites already discovered in the
Dudley lime formation are of two kinds ; viz. one which is
commonly called the Dudley fossil (Jg. 1 1 .), and mentioned in
Parkinson's work upon Organic Rernains, and another (Jig.

42

Ne*w Species of Trilobite.

12.), which, I believe, has not yet been particularly noticed,
arising, probably, either from their scarcity, or from the im-
perfect condi-

tion m which
they are usually
found, the head
and tail being
generally apart.
The points of
difference in the
Dudley Trilo-
bites may be
seen by the
accompanying
sketches, which
are taken from

specimens in my possession. (Seejf%5. 11, 12.) Mr. Pay ton of
Dudley has been at the pains of having siniilar fossils drawn
upon stone, in a masterly manner, by Mr. G. Scharf, which

also represent their differences most satisfactorily. These have
a crustaceous covering, and twenty-four transverse lines or ribs
across their lobes.

The Trilobite from Barr, which I have in my possession,
has a very remarkable appearance, and differs in so many
respects from the Dudley Trilobites, that it can scarcely be
classed with those fossils. It has ten transverse lines across

New Species of Trilohite,

^3

the lobes, covering only the upper half of the body, the lower
half being a smooth surface to its termination. The lobes (if

clinches

they may be so called) do not extend lower than the transverse
lines, and their division is so unequal that the middle lobe is

1 1 almost four times the width
of those of the side. This
animal has probably had
the power, like the Dudley
Trilobites, of coiling itself
up, by making the tail meet
the mouth ; and, from the
curvature at the lateral ter-
mination of the transverse
lines, which give the appearance of side lobes, this is not an
improbable supposition. The head, which, perhaps, is the
most peculiar
part, occupies
nearly a third
of the animal.
The eyes are/
very promi-i
nently marked,
exhibiting the
palpebrae, or
eyelids, dis-
tinctly and par-
tially open, surrounded by an orbital jtnargin, with a sort of
notch in the superior part. From each canthus, or corner of
the eye, there is a kind of suture extending to the under

44? New Species of Trilohite.

surface of the head. There is also a small tuberosity situated
in the centre of the head between the orbits.

Lime formations in this country, if we may judge from the
fossils they contain, appear to be of great variety and strangely
dispersed throughout the western side of the island. The
Dudley lime is considered by geologists to be transition lime-
stone, and from its immediate vicinity to the trap rocks of
Rowley, it is reasonable to suppose that it has been raised
from a great depth below the surface, by some volcanic action.
The Castle Hill at Dudley, consisting of limestone, is not a
quarter of a mile from Cawney Hill, which is composed of
basaltic columns. The lime strata of Dudley dip principally
to the east and to the west, and are raised in the shape of a
cone, with their lines of continuity at the summit broken
away. {fg. H.) The dip to the east appears to pass under

Dudley. Tipton. Wednesbury. Walsall. Barr.

Jiay Head
Lime works. Coal and Ironworks. Lime works, time works.

the Wednesbury coal field, and to crop out again at Walsall,
a distance of nine miles, where it is recognised by the fossils
bearing an exact resemblance. It is singular that at this place
it should be again accompanied by the trap rock, which appears
at Pouch Hill *, situated at a distance of little more than a
mile. Hay Head, in the parish of Barr, is situated about two
miles east from Walsall, and is the spot where this singular
Trilobite was discovered. The limestone here appears of a
darker colour, more condensed, and is slacked with less
facility than that of Dudley or Walsall, and appears from its
outcrop to be an under-stratum. The Orthoceratite, I be-
lieve, has never been discovered at Dudley, but in these
quarries most beautiful specimens of that fossil are frequently
found, and of considerable magnitude.

I remain, your obedient servant,

Frederick Jukes.
General Hospital, Birmingham, Nov, 12. 1828.

The Dudley fossils have so long been objects of admiration
among naturalists, that it is a remarkable fact that so large and

* At this place fine specimens of Radiated Zeolite and Prehnite are
found.

New Species of Trilobite. 45

handsome a species as the one found in the Barr limestone {Jigs,
8, 9, 10.) should have remained undiscovered in England until
now. It certainly was not known when M. Alexandre Bron-
gniart published his account of that tribe of fossils. The Dud-
ley fossil had long obtained the name of Trilobite (from the
three-lobed form of the body) ; but, as considerable difference
was observed among the several species found at Dudley an
other places, M. Brongniart judged it necessary to divide
them into five genera or subgenera, Calymene, A^saphus,
Ogygirt:, Paradoxides, and Agnostus. The common Dudley
fossil is the Calymene BlumenbachzV [Jig. 11.), the scarce one
is A^saphus caudatus {Jig» 12.); and these are all that were
known at or near Dudley. Your correspondent, J. A. H., has
supplied you with a figure of A^saphusDebuch«'(^y^. 2 7. )j found
in Radnorshire, which is a much larger species than either of
the Dudley ones, but not equal to that from Barr. The Ho-
nourable William Strangeways found at Calomenca, in Russia,
a Trilobite, agreeing apparently with this large one, and M.
Adolphe Brongniart obtained, during his travels in Sweden,
in 1825, specimens of the same species at Husbifjol, near
Linkoping. It was immediately seen that this did not belong
to either of the divisions above referred to, he therefore pro-
posed to treat of it as the type of a new genus to be named in
an appendix to the Histoire Natiirelle des Crustaces Fossiles,
which, if published, has not yet reached England. (Drawings
and specimens are in the possession of Charles Stokes, Esq.
M.G.S., to whom I am indebted for this information.) In
the Annals of the Lyceum of New York, for December, 1824,
(vol. i. No. 6.) observations, with figures, are given by Mr.
Dekay, upon a new genus of Trilobite discovered at the Tren-
ton Falls, upon West Canada Creek. He has named it Iso-
telus, from isos, equal, and telos, end; the two extremities
being nearly alike. It differs from the Barr Trilobite chiefly in
the number of the divisions of the body, having only eight
instead often ; a difference scarcely sufficient among Trilobites,
for a generic character, but excellent for the distinction of
sections or species.

As Trilobites occur only in transition rocks, and the lowest
beds of the mountain limestone, their presence in any country
is an important geological feature ; and since it further appears
that the different species are peculiar to different beds, a means
is pointed out of identifying these beds or strata, as in the
case of the Barr limestone, at immense distances. — J. D. C. S.

46

PAKT 11.

REVIEWS.

Art. I. A brief Account of Microscopical Observations made in
the Months qfJune, July^ and August, 1827, on the Particles con-
tained in the Pollen of Plants ; and on the general Existence of
active Molecules in organic and inorganic Bodies. By Robert
Brown, F.R.S. &c. [Not published.]

This little unpublished pamphlet, consisting of. sixteen
pages, has excited more curiosity at home and abroad than
any thing we recollect for many years. It is the production
of a gentleman who is acknowledged by every one to stand at
the head of botanical science, and who deserves confidence for
the correctness of his observations, and for the faithfulness
with which he records them. His discovery is no less than
this, that the ultimate particle he can obtain from all bodies,
organic and inorganic, has inherent motion, like unto vital
action.

A discovery like this is not likely to be received without
considerable scepticism : and hence we find one portion of the
world believing by the exercise of faith; and another, by far the
larger portion, doubting the existence of the facts, because
their theories anticipate the laws of nature, and they have not
patience to await for further information. No doubt microsco-
pical observers, by seeking for magnifying power, and not for
distinctness, are very subject to causes of illusion, and that
many of the wonders which they have seen are to be referred
to a lively imagination. Not so, however, the philosopher who
now claims our attention. He is patient in observing, scru-
pulous in admitting, and faithful in recording, and, moreover,
is borne out in his facts by a cloud of witnesses.

To make his observations, Mr. Brown employed a simple
lens, the focal length of which was about 3V of an inch, but
he had recourse to much higher powers, to confirm them, and
to investigate several minute points.

The several steps of the author's enquiry are more fully
stated in his pamphlet than it is necessary to do here ; but in

Brown^s Microscopical Observations. 47

the month of June, 1827, he examined the grains of pollen
belonging to the Clarkia pulchella, a plant just then brought
from the north-west coast of America, by Mr. David Douglas,
which grains, taken from the anthers full grown, but before
bursting, were filled with particles, or granules, of unusually
large size, varying from 4 oVo to 3^^077 of an inch in length, and
of a figure between cylindrical and oblong, perhaps slightly
flattened, and having rounded and equal extremities. While
examining these particles immersed in water, he observed
many of them very evidently in motion ; their motion consist-
ing, not only of a change of place in the fluid, manifested by
alterations in their relative positions, but also not unfrequently
of a change of form" in the particle itself; a contraction or
curvature taking place repeatedly about the middle of one
side, accompanied by a corresponding swelling or convexity
on the opposite side of the particle. In a few instances the
particle was seen to move on its longer axis. These motions
were such as to satisfy him, that they arose neither from
currents in the fluid, nor from its gradual evaporation, but
belonged to the particle itself.

He extended his observations to many other plants belong-
ing to the same natural family, namely Onagrarige, and found
the same general form and similar motions of particles : and,
indeed, in all the different families he examined, particles were
found varying in form from oblong to spherical, having mani-
fest motions similar to those already described. In the grasses
the membrane of the grain of pollen is so transparent, in some
cases, that the motion of the particles within the entire grain
was distinctly visible, and it was manifest also in some other
plants. This is the first stage of his observations.

The second and most curious stage is, that in looking after
these particles he saw others of a much smaller size, of a dif-
ferent shape, apparently spherical, and in rapid oscillating
motion. These he denominates Molecules. He found them
in the anthers of mosses, and on the surface of the bodies
regarded as the stamina of JE^quisetum (Horsetail), and then in
bruised portions of other parts of the same plants. He now
thought he had got hold of the constituent or elementary
molecules of organic bodies, first so considered by Buffbn and
Needham, then by Wrisburg with greater precision, soon
after and still more particularly by Miiller, and very recently
by Dr. Milne Edwards. Following up this examination of
organic bodies, he found the molecules to exist in various
animal and vegetable tissues, whether living or dead ; in
gum resins, and substances of vegetable origin, such as pit-
coal, and other mineralised vegetable remains. He then went

48 Brown^s Microscopical Observations, <

to decided minerals, and the first substance examined was a
minute fragment of window-glass, from which, when merely
bruised on the stage of the microscope, he readily and
copiously obtained molecules agreeing in size, form, and mo-
tion, with those he had already seen. Metals, volcanic ashes,
meteorites, rocks of all ages, granite itself, and, lastly, a frag-
ment of the Sphinx in the British Museum, yielded the mole-
cules in abundance. The dust, or soot, so miserably abundant
in London, is entirely composed of these molecules, possessing
visible, rapid, spontaneous, or inherent motion.

In many of the substances examined, especially those of
a fibrous structure, such as Asbestos, along with the spherical
molecules other corpuscles were found, like short fibres,
somewhat moniliform, whose transverse diameter appeared not
to exceed that of the molecules, of which they seemed to be
primary combinations. These fibrils, when of such length as
to be probably composed of not more than four or five mole-
cules, and still more evidently when formed of two or three
only, were generally in motion, at least as vivid as that of the
simple molecule itself; and which, from the fibril often
changing its position in the fluid, and from its occasional
bending, might be said to be somewhat vermicular.

In many instances oval particles were perceived, which
seemed to consist of a simple combination, perhaps of two
molecules, and these possessed a motion generally more vivid
than that of the simple molecule ; their motion consisting in
turning usually on their longer axis.

, The author is disposed to beHeve that the ultimate mole-
cule, if we may so speak, is of uniform size in all bodies. Mr.
Brown does not pretend that his facts relative to the particles
of pollen are wholly original: but that still more curious
(because more elementary and remote) existence of molecules
in all organic and inorganic bodies, possessing an inherent
motion, not to say voluntary ; and, in simple combinations, a
motion of two kinds at the same time (the one ambulatory,
and the other on its own axis), is wholly, entirely, and undi-
videdly his own.

No Englishman has dared to set up any claim to a fraction,
not even a molecule, of this extraordinary discovery ; and if
there be those abroad, who now insinuate that the theories
they have propounded to explain the motion of the particles
of pollen, necessarily prove that they knew of, saw, and com-
passed these molecules, it only shows how much more im-
portance they attach to theory than«to experiment, and how
little justice they are disposed to concede to an observer, who
is behind none in doing justice to them. O.

%oolo<fical JoiirnaL 49

"t>

Art. II. Catalogue of Worhs on Natural History, lately published,
ivith some Notice of those considered the most interesting to British
Naturalists.

Britain.

Stark, J. : Elements of Natural History, adapted to the present state of the
Science. 2 vols. 8vo. 1/. 12*.

Transactions of the Linnean Society of London. Vol. XV. Part III. Lon-
don. 4to.

Hewlett, Esther, now Copley: Scripture Natural History for Youth.

London. 2 vols. 16mo, 82 plates. Bound in cloth, 12*.; with coloured

plates, 18*.

" Quite a treasure for any deserving child, from six years of age to the
time of teens." {Lit. Gaz.)

Trimmer, Mrs. M., Author of the Nutural History of Man, &c. : A
Natural History of the most remarkable Quadrupeds, interspersed with
interesting characteristic Anecdotes. London. 2 vols. l2mo, 300 cuts. 8*.

ZOOLOGY.

The Zoological Journal, No. XIV. London. Svo. Quarterly. 7*. 6d.
plain; 10*. coloured.

The first paper is on the supposed identity of Whitebait and Shad, by
William Yarrell, Esq. F.L.S. The diminutive fishes called whitebait have
hitherto been generally considered as the young of the shad (Ciupea v416sa).
Mr. Pennant gives the whitebait as an appendage to the bleak (Cyprinus
alburnus) ; and Dr. Shaw also describes the whitebait as a species of the Cypri-
nus, or carp genus. Dr. Turton, Mr. Donovan, and Dr. Fleming determine
th'e whitebait to be the fry of the shad. Mr. Yarrell was first led to investigate
this subject by observing the early appearance (March) of whitebait in a
fishmonger's shop ; and, knowing that shads, which they were supposed
to be, did not make their appearance till much later (May), he took up
and persevered in a course of investigation which lasted from March to
August, 1828. The details we shall not enter into; but the specific dis-
tinction between the two fishes, on which he relies as of the greatest value,
is the difference of their anatomical character, and especially in their num-
ber of vertebrae. " The number of vertebrae in the shad, of whatever size
the specimen may be, is invariably fifty-five ; the number in the whitebait
is uniformly fifty-six ; and even in a fish of two inches, with the assistance
of a lens, this exact number may be distinctly made out.'* To show the
vafue of this character as a specific distinction, he gives the following quo-
tation from Dr. Fleming's excellent work on the Philosophy of Zoology,
vol.ii. p. 311. : — " The number of the bones of the vertebral column in
different species of fishes being exceedingly various, suggested to Artedi
the use of this character in the separation of nearly allied species. Among
the species of the genus Cjprinus, for example, a difference in the number
of vertebrae has been observed to the amount of fourteen. In ascertaining
this character, Artedi recommends the greatest circumspection. The fish
should be boiled, the fleshy parts separated, and the vertebrae detached
from one another ; and these counted two or three times in succession, to
prevent mistakes. This character is of great use, as it is not liable to
variation ; individuals of the same species exhibiting the same number of
vertebrae in all the stages of their growth."

The other new facts in this and preceding numbers ^of the Zoological
Journal will be found in due time among our Collectanea.

Vol. IL—No. 6. e

50 Tower Menagerie.

The Zoological Periodicals. — Curtis's British Entomology, No. LXII.,
for February (Mag. Nat. Hist. vol. i. p. 54.). — Stephens's Illustrations of
British Entomology, No. XXIII., for February (Mag. Nat. Hist., vol. i.
p. 55.). — Sowerby's Genera of Recent and Fossil Shells, No. XXXI.
{Mag. Nat. Hist., vol.i. p. Se.). — Sweet's British Warblers {Mag. Nat,
Hist., vol. I. p. 57.) is completed in one volume 8vo, 16 col. pi., 16s. 6d,
This is. a very handsome work ; the plates are from living specimens in
the author's collection, " including the nightingale, redstart, blackcap,
whitethroat, garden warbler, and all the interesting birds of passage belong-
ing to the genus Sylvia, which contains '^the choice singing birds that visit
this country ; with a full account of the author's method of treating them,
in which is shown how they may be kept in confinement in as good health
as any common bird whatever."

The Tower Menagerie ; comprising the Natural History of the Animals
contained in that Establishment, with Anecdotes of their Characters
and History. Illustrated by Portraits of each, taken from life, by
William Harvey, [and engraved on Wood by Branston and Wright.
London. 8vo.

The wood engravings which illustrate this work are equal, if not supe-
rior, to any thing which has appeared since the invention of the art ; and
they show how extensively, and with what advantage, that description of
illustration may be employed in natural history. Much of the effect of a
wood engraving depends on the paper on which the impression is taken,
and on the care and skill of the pressman. In the present work every pos-
sible care seems to have been taken in these respects ; and, in consequence,
one of the most elegant octavo volumes has been produced which ever
issued from the British press. The literary matter is also highly entertain-
ing and instructive. The history of sixty wild animals, including some
birds and serpents, is given ; and, in the introduction, is ably and elegantly
traced the origin and progress of menageries. Menageries date from the
most remote antiquity, and are alluded to even in the obscure traditions of
fabulous ages. The barbarian warrior sought amusement in the chase, and
treasured up his spoils in common with the trophies of battle. Afterwards
the strength and ferocity of the brutes of the forest were rendered avail-
able as auxiliaries in war ; and the animals so employed were confined in
what may be considered as menageries.

Many wild animals occupied a distinguished place in the theology of the
dark ages : they were either worshipped or sacrificed, and for these pur-
poses must have been preserved in some sort of menagery. The domesti-
cation of animals may be considered as having taken place by similar
means j and fields and stables, and their inhabitants, only differ from the
apartments for wild animals in containing those which minister to neces-
sity and convenience, instead of curiosity and science. Aristotle's Historic
of Animals is materially indebted to the menagery formed in civilised Greece
by the Macedonian conqueror, on his return from India. The Romans had
first menageries for the use of the public amphitheatres, and afterwards
vivaria of rare and curious animals, for the gratification of naturalists. The
first establishment of this kind, in modern days, was that founded at Ver-
sailles by Lewis XIV., and to that we owe the Natural History of Buffon.
The first notice of a royal menagery in England relates to a collection of lions,
leopards, and other strange beasts, kept at Woodstock by King Henry I.
From Woodstock they were transferred to the Tower, and the Sheriffs of
London, Bedford, and Buckingham, of this and succeeding reigns, had
orders to maintain these animals and their keepers. " In 1252, the Sheriffs
of London were commanded to pay four-pence a day for the maintenance
of a white bear ; and, in the following year, to provide a muzzle and chain

Thompson's Zoological Reseaf'ches. 51

to hold the said white bear while fishing or washing himself in the river
Thames. In 1255 they were directed to build a house in the Tower for
an elephant, which had been presented to the King, by Louis, King of
France." In 1657 there were six lions in the Tower; in 1708, eleven
lions, two leopards or tigers (Strype, the historian, it seems, knew not
which), three eagles, two owls, two cats of the mountain, and a jackall.
The collection varied till 1822, when Mr. Alfred Cops, the present keeper,
succeeded to the office, and greatly increased it, as the sixty animals
described in the present work fully prove.

The whole of the drawings of these animals are from the pencil of that
eminent artist, to whom this Magazine is so much indebted, Mr. William
Harvey, " who, in seizing faithful and characteristic portraits of animals
in restless and almost incessant motion, has succeeded in overcoming diffi-
culties which can only be appreciated by those who have attempted similar
delineations." The literary department has been superintended by J. T.
Bennet, Esq. F.L.S., a scientific naturalist, and an active member of the
Zoological Society, assisted by various eminent zoologists.

The engravings, we have already said, are equal to any thing that has
ever been done ; and we hope their appearance, as well as those in our ow-n
and similar works, will lead publishers to adopt this mode of illustration
much more generally than they have hitherto done. The EncyclopcEdia
Metropolitana^ for instance, now in the course of publication, illustrated by
elaborate, highly finished copperplate engravings, would have been a much
more useful book if the engravings had been on wood, and printed along
with the text ; and it might also have been sold at a less price : in short,
we see little use for copperplate engravings, except where they are to be
coloured after nature.

Thompson, John V., Esq. F.L.S., Surgeon to the Forces, Author of a Me-
moir on the Pentacrinus europae\is, &c. : Zoological Researches an<l
Illustrations ; or Natural History of Nondescript or imperfectly known
Animals. In a series of Memoirs. Illustrated by numerous figures.
Cork. Svo. No. 1. Zs. 6d. Sept. 1828.

The first memoir is on the Metamorphoses of the Crustacea, and on
Zoea, exposing their singular structure, and demonstrating that they are
not, as has been supposed, a peculiar genus, but the larva of Crustacea.
Dr. Leach, one of the chief investigators of the Crustacea, has assigned it
{Enci/c. Brit., art. Crustacea) as one of their principal characters, that they
undergo no metamorphoses; but Mr. Thompson having, in 1822, met with
the genus Zoea (ord. Crustacea) in theTiarbour of Cork, kept some of them,
and had the satisfaction of witnessing the metamorphoses first described by
the Dutch naturalist. Slabber. The second memoir is on the genus
Mysis, or Opossum Shrimp. The author is evidently an ardent and
scientific student : he has already added several new facts to science, and
will, we have no doubt, increase their number in the course of his pur-
suits.

Swainson, W., Esq. F.R.S. F.L.S. M.W.S. &c. : Zoological Illustrations
(New Series) ; or Figures and Descriptions of New or Interesting Birds*
Insects, and Shells. London. 8vo. Monthly. 4*. 6d.

" The reputation of the former series of this work renders it necessary
only to state that the execution ojf the new series will be equally beautiful.
Each number will contain five coloured plates, resembling drawings, with
their descriptions." {Lit. Gaz., Feb. 7. 1829.)

Jardine, Sir W., Bart., and J. Selby, Esq. : Illustrations of Ornithology.-
Part IV. Royal 4to. 1/. ll^y.

E 2

52 Bursess's Eidodendroii.

to*

Anon. (A Lady, an instructress in the study of Conchology, and who may
be heard of at Messrs. Harvey and Darton's, Gracechurch Street) : Rudi-
ments of Concholoiiy ; designed as a familiar Introduction to the Science,
for the use of Young Persons ; with Plates, and References to the Col-
lection of Shells in the British Museum. London. 12mo. 3s. 6d. plain.

A useful little work, which was very much wanted,

A Lady: Caroline and her Mother; or Familiar Conversations for Childreq
on Entomological Subjects. l2mo. 4s. 6d.

BOTANY.

The Bota7iical Periodicals. — Curtis's Botanical Magazine, No. XXVL —
Edwards's Botanical Register, No. XIL, completing Vol. XIV. — Botanical
Cabinet, No. CXLIL— The Botanic Garden, No. L.— The British Flower-
Garden, No. LXXIL — Geraniaceae, No. VIII. of second series. — Cistineae,
No. XXII. — Medical Botany, No. XXVL — Flora M<^dica, No. XVL
{Mag. Nat. Histy vol. i. p. 58.)

In the Botanical Register and the British Flower- Garden, the names are
accented, and the derivations given,* agreeably to our recommendation
(Vol. I. p. 59.). In the Botanic Garden this was done from the beginning.
We therefore recommend these three works ; the first to the lovers of rare
and new plants from all countries ; the second to the lovers of new and
beautiful hardy herbaceous plants and shrubs ; and the third to beginners
in botany, and those who cannot afford expensive works. Every number
of the Botanic Garden contains coloured figures, descriptions, and his-
torical and scientific notices of four handsome hardy garden plants, and
costs only a shilling. The author deserves the highest praise for thus
bringing an elegant and scientific botanical work within the reach of families
in moderate circumstances.

Burgess, Henry, Esq. : Eidodendron, or Views of the General Character
of Trees, foreign and indigenous, connected with Picturesque Scenery.
London. Lithog. pis., in folio Numbers.

Twelve plates are published, containing the beech, oak, whitethorn,
alder, spruce fir, Scotch pine, ash, birch, Lombardy poplar, a pollard willow,
elm, deciduous cypress, cedar of Lebanon, lime, and larch. As they are all
drawings from nature, their faithfulness can only be estimated by com-
parison ; and, in this respect, they can have no great public value. Their
merit rests on very different ground, viz. how far they are cognizable as
expressive types of the respective kinds they are intended to represent. On
this point it may be affirmed that Mr. Burgess has been fortunate in his
figures of the beech, oak, Scotch pine, birch, deciduous cypress, cedar, and
larch : but, in the instances of the whitethorn, lime, and the pollard willow,
his choice has been less happy ; because neither of these, however truly
drawn, give the general character of the kinds.

Mutilated individuals should not have had a place in such a work : the
general character only should have been the aim ; all accidental circum-
stances should have been disregarded. Such can be no further useful than
as copies to be introduced into other compositions.

The author's purpose is commendable ; it will bring the character of
trees more into the notice of junior artists, to whom the work will give good
examples for imitation, and a useful direction to their ideas in this branch
of their profession ; especially as We are informed the future numbers will,
in all respects, be improved. — J. M, Chelsea,

Alman\ Analysis of the Genera of Plants. 4to. 1 0*. 6d.

Transactions of the Geological Society. 53

GEOLOGY AND MINERALOGY.

Urcy Andrew, M.D. F.R.S., Member of the Geological and Astronomical
Societies of London, &c. &c. : A New System of Geology, in which the
great Revolutions of the Earth and Animated Nature are reconciled at
once to Modern Science and to Sacred History. London. 8vo. Nume-
rous Engravings.

Transactions of the Geological Society of London, Second Series. Vol. IL
Part lU. London. 4 to, 16 plates.

This part contains the six following articles : — On the Volcanic District
of Naples ; by G. Poulett Scrope, Esq. F.G.S. F.R.S. — Supplementary
Remarks on the Strata of the Oolitic Series, arid the Rocks associated
with them in the Counties of Sutherland and Ross, and in the Hebrides;
by Roderick Impey Murchison, Esq., Sec. G.S. F.R.S. F.L.S.— On the
Fossil Remains of two new species of Mastodon, and of other vertebrated
Animals, found on the left bank of the Irawadi ; by William Clift, Esq.
F.G.S. F.R.S. «&c. — Geological Account of a series of Animal and Vege-
table Remains, and of Rocks, collected by J. Crawfurd, Esq., on a Voyage
up the Irawadi to Ava, in 1826 and 1827 ; by the Rev. W^illiam Buckland,
D.D. F.G.S. F.R.S. F.L.S. ■— Description of Fossil Remains of some Ani-
mals from the North-east border of Bengal ; by J. B. Pentland, Esq. — On
the Cycadeoideae, a family of Fossil Plants, found in the Oolite Quarries
of the Isle of Portland ; by the Rev. William Buckland, D.D. &c.

These interesting communications are accompanied by sixteen beautiful
plates, chiefly illustrative of the fossil bones, and the Cycadeoideae.
Twelve out of these sixteen plates are .understood to have been liberally
presented by Dr. Buckland.

Anon. : A Manual of Mineralogy ; ;in which is shown how much Corn-
wall contributes to the Illustration of the Science. London. Svo, 1 pi.

Is. 6d.

This manual contains a concise description of minerals in general, and
the localities of those of Cornwall, hitherto known, in particular ; with the
economical uses of the metals, and other species ; an account of the mode
of smelting tin and copper ores ; an explanation of terms ; and mineralogical
questions. A plate of the primary forms, from which the various crystalline
modifications proceed, and several new analyses of the mineral productions
of the country, are also given. — Pref.

France.

Baron Cuvier, Desmarest, and Geqfroy Saint-Hilaire : Planches de Seba,
accompagn^es d'un texte explicatif mis ou courant de la Science, et
r^dige. Paris. Folio, livr. 7. a 12. As. each.

TJie Bulletin des Sciences NaturelleSy &c. No. 12., for Decembei', 1828.
Svo. Monthly. (Supra, Vol.1, p. 63.)

The Annates des Sciences Katurelles, &c. Paris. Svo. Monthly. (Supra,
Vol. L p. 65.)

Dictionnaire des Sciences Naturelles. Tom. 56. Paris. Svo. 6s,

Dictionnaire Classique d'Histoii-e Naturelle, dirige par M. Bory-de-Saint-
Vincent. Tom. 14., avec cahier 14. de planches. Paris. Svo. 15^.

Cuvier, M. le Baron : Histoire des Progr^s des Sciences Naturelles depuia
, 1789 jusqu* a cejour. Paris. Svo. Tom. 3 and 4 ; 3*. 6rf. each ; avec
2 atlas de planches, 5s. j color. 6s.

E 3

51? "^ French Books : — Zoology,

Humholdty Baron de: Tableaux de la Nature, ou Considerations sur les
Deserts, sur la Physiognomie des V^g^taux, sur les Cataractes de I'Ord-
noque, sur la Structure et I'Action des Volcans dans les difFerentes regions
de la terre. Trad, de TAUemand par Eyries. Paris. 2 vol. 8vo. 16«.

Memoires de la Soeiete d* Histoire Naturelle de Paris. Tom. 4. 4to. l/. ,

Bowdich, E. E., Chief of the English Embassy to the Ashantie country,
&c. : Excursions dans les Isles de Madere et de Porto-Santo, faites dans
Fautomne de 1825, pendant son troisieme voyage en Afrique. Traduit
de I'Anglais et accompagne de notes de M. le Baron Cuvier et de M. le
Baron Humboldt. 1 vol. Svo ; avec atlas in 4to de 22 planches, dont
plusieurs colorizes, Paris and London. 1/ 5s.

Beleuzcy M. : Histoire et Description du Museum Royal d'Histoire Natu-
relle J ouvrage r^dig^ d*apres les ordres de TAdministration du Museum.
Paris and London. 2 vols. Svo ; avec trois plans et quatorze vues des
jardins, des galeries, et de la menagerie. Prix pour les souscripteurs au
Dictionnaire des Sciences Naturelles, 12*.

Anon. : Guide des E'trangers au Museum d*Histoire Naturelle et du Jardin
du Roi. Paris and London. 1 vol. ISmo, orn^ du plan du Jardin du
Roi et d'une belle lithographie repr^sentant la giraffe, 2s.

Saintfond, Faujas de: Histoire Naturelle de la Montague Saintpierre de
Maestricht. Paris and London. 1 vol. 4to. l/. 10*.

Lacepede, M. le Comte de: Histoire Naturelle de rHomme. Pr^c^d^e
de son eloge historique, par M. le baron Cuvier. 1 vol. Svo, avec le por-
trait et fac simile de M. de Lacepede. 68.

SteffenSy M. ; Anthropologic. 2 vols. Svo. 22/r.

Dwperrey^ M. : Voyage autour du Monde, pendant les anuses 1822-25. Pre-
miere division j Zoologie. Live. Paris. Folio. 14*. each.

Cuvier^ Frederic, brother to the Baron :

1. Histoire naturelle des Mammiferes. Liv. 57. Folio. 15*.

2. Dents (des) Mammiferes,] consid^r^es comme caracteres zoologiques.
Svo, 1 vol. cartonnd, avec 103 planches. 21.

Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire : Cours de I'Histoire Naturelle des Mammiferes.
Le9on 1 5 a 20. Paris. Svo.

Lesson : Complement des (Euvres de Buffon, ou Histoire naturelle de tous
les animaux rares et precieux, decouverts depuis la mort de BuiFon.
Paris. Svo, tom. l. 5s. 6d. Planches noires, Liv. 1. 2s. 6d.; col. 5s,
(To form lo volumes, and 20 livraisons of plates.)

Eloquet, H. : Faune des M^ddcins. Liv. 27. Paris. Svo. 2s. ; col. 3*.

Anon. : Faune Frangaise, ou Histoire Naturelle'des Animaux qui se trouvent

en France. Livrs. 17 et 18, texte et planches. Paris. Svo.
»
Cours^ d*Histoire Naturelle^ contenant les principales especes du R^ne

Animal, dessinee par Paul Oudart, public par Engleman. Livraisons

1 a 12. Paris. 4to. Plain, 4*.; coloured, 8*. each
Temminck : Nouveau Recueil des Planches coloriees d'oiseaux. Livr. 75

Paris. 4to, 10*. each; folio, 15*.

French Books : — Zoology, 55

Werner : Atlas des Oiseaux d'Europe pour servir de complement au Ma-
nuel de Temrainck. Livr. 10. Paris. 8vo. CoL 6s. 6d. ; plain 5^. 6d,

Levaillant : Histoire Natiirelle des Perroquets. 2 vols, folio. 26/.

Polydore Roux : Ornithologie Proven^ale, ou Description avec fig. color
de tons les Oiseaux qui habitent constamment la Provence, ou qui n* y
sont que de Passage. Livr. 13. Marseilles. 7*. 6d, (To form 50
livraisons.)

L'Herminier, M., F.J. D. M.: Recherches sur Pappareil sternal des Oiseaux,
suivies d'un essai, sur la distribution de cette classe de vertebres. Paris,
1828. 2d edit. Svo, pp. 108, 4 pi. lith. 5/r.

Cuvier, M. le Baron, Grand Officer of the Legion of Honour, Counsellor
of State, Member of the Royal Council for Public Instruction, one of the
Forty Members of the French Academy, perpetual Secretary of the
Academy of Sciences, &c. ; and M. Valenciennes, Assistant Naturalist to
the Museum of Natural History : Histoire Naturelle des Poissons, ouv-
rage contenant plus de cinq mille especes de ces animaux, d^crites d*
apres nature et distributes conform^ment aleurs rapports d'organisation,
avec des observations sur leur anatomie et des recherches critiques sur
leur nomenclature ancienne et raoderne. 15 a 20 vol. 8vo, ,ou 4to,
sur papier carre superfin satine et cavalier v^lin Each livraison with
a cahier of 15 or 20 plates, 14*. j on vellum, 18*.; coloured, 24s.
and 28*.

Dumerily Andj^e- Marie-Constant , de 1' Academic Royale des Sciences de I'ln-
stitut: Considerations G^nJrales sur la Classe des Insectes; ouvrage
orn^ de 60 planches en taille-douce, representant plus de 350 genres
d'insectes. 1 vol. grand in 8vo, cartonn^. Plain il. 5s. ; col. 3/.

JBoitard, Editor of the Journal des Jardins, and author of various works on
Natural History : Manuel d'Entomologie, ou Histoire naturelle des In-
sectes. 2 vols. 1 8mo. 7*.

Lalanne, I'Abb^ principal of the college of Gray, and member of many
learned societies : Manuel Entomologique pour la classification des Lepi-
dopteres de France, d' apres les m^thodes et nomenclatures de MM. La-
treille, Godard, Hubner, et les entomologistes les plus suivis. 1 vol. Svo,
en 2 parties, ornd de plusieurs planches lithographi^es. 9*.

Duj)onchel : Histoire Naturelle des L^pidopteres Nocturnes. Tom. 4.
Premiere partie, livrs. 12 a 51. Paris. Svo. 5s. each.

Dejean : Species G^n^ral des Col^opteres de sa collection. Tom. 3. Paris.
Svo. 9s.

Lepelletier, Am. de Saint-FargeaUy Mem. of Hort. Soc. of Paris : Mono-
graphia Tenthredinetarum, synonymia extricata. 1 vol. Svo. 5s,

Hermann, J. Frederic, docteur en medecine, membre de la Soci^td d'Histoire
Naturelle de Paris : M^moire Apterologique. 1 vol. folio, avec 9 planches
colorizes. 1/. lo*.

Blainville, H. M. Ducrotay de. Prof of Compar Anat. and Physiol., and of
Zoology to the Faculty of Sciences of Paris : Manuel de Malacologie et
de Conchyliologie ; contenant; 1. une histoire abregee de cette partie, de
la zoologie ; des considerations g^nerales sur ranatomie,la physiologic, et
I'histoire naturelle des Malacozoaires, avec un catalogue des principaux
auteurs qui s'en sont occupes; 2. des principes de Conchyliologie, avec une
histoire abregee de cet art^et un catalogue raisonn^ des auteurs princi-
paux qui en traitent ; 3. un systeme general de Malacologie tire a la fois

E 4

56 French Books : — Botani/.

de I'aniraal et de sa coquille dans une d^pendance r^ciproque, avec la
figure d'line espece de chaque genre. Ouvrage contenant 109 planches
dessinees par M. Pretre, et gravv'es en taille-douce avec le plus grand soin
sous la direction de M. Turpin ; un volume de texte et un volume de
planches cartonn^s. Plain, 2/.; col. 5l.

Desmarestf Anselme-Gaetan, membre titulaire de 1' Acad^mie Royale de M^-
decine, &c. &c. : Considerations G^n6*ales sur la Classe des Crustacds.
Paris and London. 56 pis. ll.5s.; col. 3/.

Robineau Desvoidy : R^cherches sur I'organisation vert^brale des Crustac^s,
des Arachnoides, et des Insectes. Paris. 8vo.

BOTANY.

JDc CandoUe M. A. P.:

1. Mdmoires sur differentes parties du Regne Vegetal. Livrs. 2 et 5.
Families des Crassulac^es, Onagraires, Paronychi^es. Paris. 4to. 18*.

2. M^moire sur la Famille des M^lastomac^es. Paris, 1828. 4to,
pp. 11— 84., 10 pis. 10/y.

3. Plantes rares du Jardin de Geneve. Paris and London. Gr. 4 to*
1 5^., each livr. with 6 pis.

JussieUy M. Jndr. de :

1. Considerations sur la Famille des Euphorbiacees, memoire lu a TAca-
deoiie des Sciences. Paris and London. 4to. 2s. 6d.

2. Principes de la Methode Naturelle des V^g^taux. Paris and London.
8vo. Is. 6d.

Mirhel, M. B. : E''iemens de Physiologie v^g^tale et de Botanique. Paris
and London. 3 vols. 8vo, fig. br. 1/. 5s.

Richard, M. A.: Memoires sur les Coniferes et les Cycadees, ouvrage post-
hume de L. C.Richard, Prof, de Botanique a la Faculty de M^decine de
Paris, membre de TAcad^mie Royale des Sciences, termini et public
par A. Richard fils, docteur en medecine, Prof, de Bot. a TAcad^nie de
Paris. Paris and London. 1 vol. gr. 4to, 30 pis. 60 /r., and 85/r.

Willdcnow : Historia Amaranthorum. Paris and London. Folio, plates.
1/. \6s.

L. B. D. M. : Lettres a Madame de C * * *, sur la Botanique, et sur
quelques sujets de Physique et d'Histoire Naturelle, suivies d'une methode
elementaire de botanique. Paris and London. 2 vols. 12mo. Is.

Labillardierej Jacobo Juliano, Instituti nationalis socio :

1. NovEe Hollandise Plantarum Specimen. Paris and London. 2 vols,
gr. 4to. 8/. 8s.

2. Sertum Austro-Caledonicum. Paris and London. 2 parts, gr. 4to,
pis. 5l. 4s.

Cassiniy H.y associ^ libre de I'Acaddmie des Sciences, membre de la Societe
Linn, de Londres, president a la Cour Royale de Paris, &c. ; Opuscules
Phytologiques. Paris and London. 2 vols. 8vo, pis. 155.

Villars, JD., Lauth, and Nestier, A. : Precis d*un Voyage Botanique fait en
Suisse dans les Grisons, aux sources du Rhin, au Saint-Gothard, dans le
departement du Tessin, le Milanais, le Pi^mont, autour du lac Majeur, sur
le Simplon, au Valais, &c., en Juillet, Aoiit, et Septembre, 1811, pr^ced^
de quelques reflexions sur I'utilit^ des voyages pour les naturalistes.
Paris and London. 8vo, 4 pis. 2s.

French Books : — Geology and Mineralogy. 57

Villars, D. : Catalogue Methodique des Plantes du Jardin Botanique de
I'E'cole de Strasbourg. Paris and London. 8vo, 6 pis. 6*.

Brongniart, M. Ad. : Essai d'une Classification Naturelle des Champignons,
ou Tableau methodique des genres rapportes jusqu* a present a cette Fa-
mille. Paris and London. 8vo, 8 pis. 5s. \ col. 12*.

i^re^czne^: Voyage autour du Monde; Botanique. Livr. 8. Paris. Folio.
125.

Saint-Hilaire^ Jussieu,and Cambessedes : Flora Brasiliae Meridionalis. Fascic.
10. Paris. 4to, 15*.; folio, color. 5/.

Saint Amans, M.de: Flore Agenaise, ou Description methodique des Plantes
observtes dans le departement de Lot-et-Garonne et dans quelques par-
ties des departemens voisins. Paris and London. 1 vol. 8vo, avec un
cahier de planches. 9*.

Deslongchamps, J. L. A. Loiseleiir: Flora Gallica, seu enumeratio plantarum
in Gallia sponte nascentium, secundum Linneanum systema digestarum,
addita familiarum naturalium synopsi. Paris, 1828. Edit, secunda, aucta
et emendata, cum tab. 31, 2 vols. 8vo, pp. 407 and 596. 16/r.

GraffenaueVy J. P., docteur en medecine : Traite sur le Camphre, considere
dans ses rapports avec I'histoire naturelle, la physique, la chimie, et la
mddecine. Paris and London. 8vo, 1 pi. 2s. 6d.

Kunth,C.S.y prof.reg.acad. Berol.,Instit.Gall.,Societ.Philom. et Hist. Nat. ;
Synopsis Plantarum quas in itinere ad Plagam iEquinoctialem orbis novi
collegerunt Al. de Humboldt et Am. Bonpland. Paris and London. 4 vols.
8vo. 2/.

Stoltz, C. : Flore des Plantes qui croissent dans les Departemens du Haut et
du Bas-Rhin, fbrmds par la ci-devant Alsace. Paris and London. 8vo.
l.y. 6d.

Michaux, Andr., Inst. Gall. Scient. : ?

1. Flora Boreali-Americana, sistens caracteres plantarum quas in America
septentrionali collegit et detexit. Paris and London. Tab. 51. 2 vols.
8vo. 1 1. 7s,

2. Histoire des Chines de TAmerique, ou description et figures de toutes
les especes et varietes de chenes de PAmerique septentrionale. Paris
and London. Folio. .5 pis. 1/. 7*.

Vauc/ier, J. P. : Histoire des Conferves d'Eau douce, contenant leurs dif-
fdrens modes de reproduction et la description de leurs especes, avec des
observations nouvelles sur la multiplication des Tremeles et des Ulves.
Paris and London. 4to, pis. 12*.

GEOLOGY AND MINERALOGY.

D* Aubuissotif J. F. de Voisons : Trait^ de Geognosie, ou expos^ des connois-
sances actuelles sur la constitution physique et min^rale de globe terres-
tre. Nouvelle Edition. Paris. 8vo, torn. 1. 2s.

Humboldt^ A. de : Essai Geognostique sur le Gisement des Roches dans les
deux Hemispheres. Paris and London. 1 vol. 8vo, 2d edit. 8s.

Breislack, J. : Institutions Geologiques, ou trait^ sur la structure du globe.
Paris and London. 3 vols. 8vo, atlas de 56 pis. 21. 10s.

Scropcy G. Poulett : M^moire sur le District Volcanique de Naples. Read
to the Geological Society of London on the 2d of March, 1827.

58 French Books : — Geology and Mineralogy,

Sertrand-Rouxy J. M. : Description G^ognostique des Environs du Puy-en-
Velai, et particulierement du bassin au milieu duquel cette ville est situ^e.
Paris and London. 1 vol. 8vo, avec une carte col. et 2 pis. 8*.

Beaumonty EUie de, ing^nieur des mines : Coup d'ffiil sur les Mines. Paris
and London. 1 vol. Svo, 2 pis. 3s. 6d.

Brard, P.: E'lemens pratiques d'Exploitation. Paris and London. 1 voL

Svo, 32 pis.

Charpentier, J. de, directeur des mines du Canton de Vaud j Memhre de la
Soci^td Helv^tique des Sciences Naturelles, &c. : Essai sur la Constitu-
tion G^ognostique des Pyrenees. Paris and London. 1 vol. Svo, 1 pi. and
a map. 13s.

Ordinaire, C. N". : Histoire Naturelle des Volcans, comprenant les volcans
sous-marins, ceux de boue, et autres ph^nomenes analogues. Paris and
London. Svo. 6s,

Def ranee, M., membre de plusieurs soci^tes savantes : Tableau des corps
organises fossiles, pr^c^dl de remarques sur les petrifactions. Paris and
London. Svo. 5s, 6d,

Joyccy FrMerick : Chimie Mineralogique, ou m^thodes concises et faciles
pour determiner imm^diatement la nature et la valeur des difF6*entes
mines metalliques ; traduit de I'Anglais par Ph. Coulier. Paris, 1825.
12rao, pp. 436. 5fr.

Giienyveauy M,, ingenieur au Corps Royal des Mines : Principes G^neraux
de Metallurgie. Paris and London. 1 vol. Svo, 2 pis. 5s. 6d.

Brochant,J.M, de VUliers, ingenieur en chef au Corps Royal des Mines, prof,
de min^ralogie et de g^ologie a I'E'cole des Mines de Paris, membre de
I'Academie des Sciences de I'lnstitut Royal de France : De la Cristallisa-
tion, consid^r^e geometriquement et physiquement, ou traitd abrege de
cristallographie, suivi d'un precis de nos connaissances actuelles sur les
ph^nomenes physiques de la cristallisation. Paris and London. 1 voL Svo,
16 pis, 12^.

Beudanty M., Membre de I'Academie des Sciences :

1. Traite de Mineralogie. Paris and London. 1 vol. Svo. 12*.

2. Voyage mineralogique et g^ologique en Hongrie, pendant Pann^e 1S18.
Paris and London. 3 vols. 4to, atlas. 4/.

Brongniart, Alex,, Mem. de PAcad. des Sciences :

1. Introduction a la Mineralogie, ou expose des principes de cette science
et de certaines propri^t^s des mineraux,considerdes principalement dans
la valeur qu*on pent leur attribuer comme caracteres, Paris and Lon-
don. 1 vol. Svo, 2 pis. 4s. 6d,

2. Classification et Caracteres Min^ralogiques des Roches Homogenes et
Heterog^nes. Paris and London. 1 vol. Svo. 5s. 6d.

3. Tableau des Terrains qui composent I'E'corce du Globe, ou essai sur
la structure de la partie connue de la Terre. Paris and London. 1 vol.

Svo. (1829.)

4. M^moire sur les Terrains de sediment superieurs calcareo-trappeens
du Vincentin, et sur quelques terrains d'ltalie, de France, d'Allemagne,
8tc., qui peuvent se rapporter a la m^me epoque, et qui presentent
quelques particularit^s. Paris and London. 1 vol. 4to, 6 pis. 8s.

Brongniart, M. Adolphe, docteur en m^decin, &c. &c. : Prodrome d'une
Histoire des Veg^taux Fossiles. Pai-is and London. I vol. svo. 5s. ^

German Books : — Zoology » 59

Brongniart, A.y and DesmaresU A. G. : Histoire Naturelle des Criistac^s
Fossiles, sous les rapports zoologique et geologique, savoir, les trilobites,
et les crustaces proprement dits. Paris and London. 1 vol. 4to. 15*.

Blainvifley M. //. Ducrotay de : Memoire sur les Belemnites, consid^r^es
zoologiquement et geologiquement. Paris and London. 1 vol. 4to, 5 pis.
lithog. 125.

Aubuisson, J. F. de : M^moires sur les Basaltes de la Saxe, accompagn^
d'observations sur I'origine des basaltes en general. Paris and London.
8vo. 4*. 6d.

DesmoulinSy Charles: Essai sur les Spherulites qui existent dans les collec-
tions de MM. F. Joannet, membre de rAcademie Royale des Sciences,
Belles-lettres et Arts de Bordeaux, &c., et C. Desmoulins ; et conside-
rations sur la famille a laquelle ces fossiles appartiennent. Paris and Lon-
don. 1 vol. 8vo, 10 pis. 7*.

Germany.

Humholdty Alexander von, the celebrated traveller : Rede gehalten bei der
ErofFnung der Versammlung der deutschen Naturforscher und Aerzte in
Berlin, am 18 ten September, 1828. Baron Humboldt's Speech at the
opening of the Congress of the Naturalists and Physicians of Germany.
Berlin. 4to. 1828.

Hemprich, Dr. W. jP., and Dr. C. G. Ehrertherg : Natur-geschichtliche
Reisen durch Nord- Africa und West-Asien in den Jahren 1820 bis 1825.
Berlin. 1828. Part 1.

Ehrenbergy Dr. : Reisen Naturhistorische durch Nord-Afrika and West-
Asien, in 1820-1825. Berlin, ir. 6d. iste abthe. gr. 4to. 19*.

Kreyssigy W. A.: Erfahrungstheorie der Pflanzen-und-Thierproducten.
Konigsberg. 2thle. gr. 8vo. 18*. '

Maximilian^ Prinzen von Wied: Abbildungen zur Naturgeschichte Brasi-
liens. Weimar. 12te. liefer. 15*.

ZOOLOGY.

Lichienstein, Dr. H. : Darstellung neuer ^Saugethiere zu Berlin. Berlin.
1 r. und 2d hft. gr. 8vo. 9s.

Wagler, Dr. J.: Systema Avium. Stuttgardt, 1827. Vol. 1. 8vo.

Fischer, J, B, : Tentamen conspectus Cantharidiarum, &c. &c. Munich,
1827. 4tO, pp. 26.

Schmeiterling's Cabinet fur Kinder. lOtes. heft. Leipzig, 1828. 8vo.
This work is not merely adapted, as its title would seem to imply, for
children, but it combines cheapness and comparative excellence in, perhaps,
a greater degree than any other existing publication on its subject, and may
be strongly recommended to all young lepidopterists. The 10 hefts, or
numbers, now published (two or three of which appear annually, and cost
in Germany 2 dollars, or about es. English, each), contain together upwards
of 600 figures of the common butterflies and moths, besides nearly 300 figures
of their larvae and pupae, all drawn and coloured from nature, and of very
respectable execution. — W. S. Brussels, Jan. 22. 1829.

Meigen,J. W. Europaische Schmetterlinge. Stes.heft. Aachen und Leipzig,
1828. 4to. This publication, by the celebrated author of the invaluable work
on European Diptera, is intended to comprise figures of all the European
butterflies and moths, classed and named according to Ochsenheimer,

60 butch Books.

Treutscke, and the latest writers on the order Lepid6'ptera, and engraved
on stone by Meigen himself, with such accurgfcy as to supply the place of
more expensively coloured works. The price of each heft, containing ten
plates, and each plate from 6 to 12 figures (including reverses) is in Ger-
many 2 dollars, or 6 shillings English, for the uncoloured copies, and 6 dol-
lars for a very limited number of copies coloured by the author. The above
two works are deservedly favourites with my two boys, and by them they
have named nearly all their collection of Lepidoptera. Any London foreign
bookseller that would import several copies of these works, would equally
serve himself and young English lepidopterists. — W. S. Brussels, Jan. 22.
1829.

Tfeiffer, C. : Naturgeschichte deutscher Land-und Siistwasser Mollusken.
5te. abthlg. mit abbild. gr. 4to. 1/. 1 2s. 6d.

Reinwardt, Dr. C. G. C. : Ueber den Charakter der Vegetation auf den In-
seln des Indischen Archipels, &c. Dr. Reinwardt's Speech on the Cha-
racteristics of the Vegetable Kingdom, in the Islands composing the Indian
Archipelago. Berlin, 1828. 4to.

LinncBi, C. : Systema Vegetabilium cur. C. Sprengel. Gottingen. Vol. 5.

8vo maj. 17*.
Brandy J. 'Dr., and Ratzeburg, Dr. : Abbildung und Beschreibung der deut-

schen Giftgewachse. Berlin. Ir. hft. gr. 4to. 5s.

Lachmann, Dr. H. W. L.: Flora Brunsvicensis. Brunswick. 11 thl. Iste.
abthl. gr. 8vo. 125. 6d.

Schrader, H, A, : Blumenbachia, novum e Loasearum familia genus. Gr.
4to. 4s.

Wallroth, Dr. F. G. : Rosae plantarum generis historia succincta. Nord-
hausen. 8vo. 105.

TrattinicJc, L. : Neue Arten von Pelargonien deutschen Ursprunges.
Vienna. 52, .33, 34. hft. gr. 8vo. 45. 6d. each.

Bischoff, G. W.: Die Kryptogamische Gewachse. Nuremberg, iste. lief,
mit 5 kupf. gr. 4to. 1 2s.

i^n>5, ^. : Elenchus Fungorum.- Griefswald. Vol.1. Svo. 6s.

GEOLOGY AND MINERALOGY.

Kaumann, Dr. C. Fr. : Lehrbuch der Mineralogie. Berlin. Mit einem atlas
von 26 tafeln, Svo. 155.

Hartmann, Dr. : Handworterbuch der Mineralogie und Geognosie. Leipsic*
Svo. 175.

Jager, Dr. G. Fr. : Uber die P'ossilreptilien in Wiirtemberg. Stuttgard.
Gr. Svo. 125.

Benihardiy Prof. : Beitrage zur nahern kenntniss, &c. M^moire sur les
formes cristalline r^gulieres. Erfurt, 1826. Svo.

Holland and the Netherlands.

Larivihe, M. A. Engelspnch : Memoire sur un silicate d'alumine consid^r^
sous les rapports chimique, mineralogique, et geognostique. Brussels,
1828. 12mo, pp. 15.

Literary Notices, 61

Art. III. Literary Notices,

Pliny's Katural History is proposed to be translated, with notes, &c., by
John Bostock, M.D. F.R.S. L.S. G.S. and H.S. M.R I. Member of the Me-
dico-Chirurgical, of the Astronomical, and of the Zoological Societies, &c.
A specimen of the first and thirty-third books has been printed; in a pre-
face to which, the author states that his object is " to present the English
reader with a faithful translation, and to give it, as much as possible, in the
style of the original." One object of the specimen is to show the kind of
notes and illustrations proposed to be added, so as to render the text intel-
ligible, without appending " an endless accumulation of matter." To us the
notes appear judicious; and the text, being full of the absurdities of the time,
is at least very amusing, and, to those fond of antiquity, will be instructive.]

l^he second number of Dr. Thompson's Zoological Researches and Illus^
trations is nearly ready for publication. It will contain a memoir on the
luminosity of the ocean, with descriptions, illustrated by four plates, of some
remarkable species of luminous animals (Pyrosoma pygmae'a and Sapphirina
indicator), and particularly of the four new gene*a, Noctiluca, Cynthia,
Liicifer, and Podopsis of the Schizopodae.

A Systematic Catalogue of British Insects, by James Francis Stephens, Esq.
F.Z.S., &c., the author of Illustrations of British Entomology, is in the
press, and will be published by subscription. It will be comprised in one
very thick 8vo volume, price to subscribers l/. 1*. This will b»an invaluable
work to every entomologist, and we hope it will enable us to attain to
greater correctness in spelling the names of insects, than we have hitherto
been enabled to do for want of such a guide.

Flantce Asiaticce Rariores ; or. Descriptions and Figures of a Select
Number of unpublished East Indian Plants. By N. Wallich, M. & Ph. D.
Superintendent of the Hon. E.I.C.'s Botanic Garden at Calcutta; F.R.S. of
Edinb. and Copenh. ; of the Linn., Geol., and Royal As. Soc. of London, &c.
To supply a desideratum, which cannot but be regretted by all who are in-
terested in the sciences of botany and horticulture. Dr. Wallich proposes
to publish a work containing descriptions and figures of a select series of
Asiatic plants : an undertaking for which he entertains hopes of being in
some manner qualified, by the materials he has accumulated during a resi-
dence of more than 20 years in that part of the globe : in 13 of which he
had the advantage of being attached to the botanic garden at Calcutta, and
of being supported by the matchless liberality of the Honourable East India
Company, both in the charge of that noble institution, and during various
extensive journeys, performed in Hindustan, Nepal, the Straits of Malacca,
and the Burma countries. The work will consist of 3 volumes in folio,
each containing 100 plates, engraved and coloured in the best style, from
the Honourable Company's drawings, accompanied by full descriptions in
Latin, with the addition of such observations in English as may appear
necessary and interesting. It will be published in 12 numbers, each con-
taining 25 engravings, with the appropriate letter-press; to appear every
three months. Price 2/. 105. each number. Subscribers names received
by Messrs. Treuttel and Wurtz, the publishers.

Observations upon the Natural History of many remarkable or hitherto un-
described British Plants, and a Catalogue of the rarer Species, collected in
South Kent; with coloured Illustrations, etched by the author, Gerard
Edwards Smith, Esq., of Saint John's College, Oxford, is in the press,
and will be published by subscription. Post 8vo. Bs.

A Descriptive Account of the North- Western Division of Somersetshire,
including the Antediluvian Bone Caverns in the Mendip Hills at Bonwell,
Hutton, and Uphill, is announced by Mr. Rutter of Shaftesbury, the
author of Fonthill and its Abbey delineated.

62

PART III.

COLLECTANEA.

Art. I. Zoology.

The Attachments formed hy Animals, from living together, have produced
several remarkable facts. Feeling has been evinced by those reckoned most
insensible, and even the strongest laws of nature have been set aside. The
cobra di capello and the canary bird, who have, for years, inhabited the
same cage at Mr. Cross's, in Exeter Change, are strong instances of the lat-
ter ; but my communication more particularly alludes to the former.

When I lived in Paris, there were two remarkably fine ostriches, male
and female, kept in the Rotunda of the Jardin du Roi. The skylight over
their heads having been broken, the glaziers proceeded to repair it, and, in
the course of their work, let fall a triangular piece of glass. Not long after
this, the female ostrich was taken ill, and died after an hour or two of great
agony. The body was opened, and the throat and stomach were found to
have been dreadfully lacerated by the sharp corners of the glass which she
had swallowed. From the moment his companion was taken from him, the
male bird had no rest ; he appeared to be incessantly searching for some-
thing, and daily wasted away. He was moved from the spot, in the hope
that he would forget his grief; he was even allowed more liberty, but
nought availed, and he literally pined himself to death. I heard of a curious
expedient the other day, which prevented a similar catastrophe, and which
has led me to address you : —A gentleman residing in this country, had for
some years been possessed of two brown cranes (^'rdea joavonina) ; one of
them at length died, and the survivor became disconsolate. He was appa-
rently following his companion, when his master introduced a large looking-
glass into the aviary. The bird no sooner beheld his reflected image than he
fancied she for whom he raoui-ned had returned to him'; he placed himself
close to the mirror, plumed his feathers, and showed every sign of happi-
ness. The scheme answered completely, the crane recovered his health
and spirits, passed^almost all his time before the looking-glass, and lived
many years after, at length dying from an accidental injury; — S. Boivdich,

The Chile Horse. — One sent by the supreme director of Chile to His
Majesty is of a milk-white colour, of the most perfect symmetry, and
equally remarkable for strength and activity. — W. T.

African Horses. — The Mandara horse is very beautiful, large, and power-
ful ; some of a bright bay colour. The Bornou horse is small, but very
perfect. — Id,

The Dalecarlian Horse. — Marshall, in his Travels (vol. iii. p. 45.), says,
" And here let me say a word or two in praise of the little Dalecarlian
horses, which have brought me with such expedition through some of the
most dangerous roads in Europe, and without having once failed us, though
six in number ; and I think they look as well as before they set out on a
journey of so many hundred miles. 1 have so great a value for them, that
I am determined to carry them to England." — Id.

Zoology, 63

The Cape of Good Hope Horse is a beautiful, lively animal, and, although
of small size, is admirably adapted to light draught or saddle. — W, T.

The Camel. — On a camel the saddle is always open above, that it may
not hurt the bunch of the animal ; but a dromedary's saddle is made like a
horse's, and covers the bunch. It walks with long and regular steps, and
the rider, of consequence, feels the motion no otherwise than if he was
rocked in a cradle. The two-bunched camel bears even as severe a climate
as that of Siberia. — Id.

White Cows. — The cows about Lyons, in France, are white, and ex-
tremely handsome. — Id.

The Rein Deer. — As attempts to naturalise the rein-deer have nearly
failed, it would be advisable, in any future efforts, to consult the 57th num-
ber of the 4th volume of the Swedish Amoenitates Academics. — Id.

An Indian Antelope, or Elk, was tamed near the Cape of Good Hope.
It always kept very near to mankind, and about the farm ; whence it ap-
pears how easy it would be to domesticate this species of gazel, which, in
its tame state, might be more serviceable than either horses or oxen, and,
in'a great measure, perform the offices for which both these animals are
used, and especially as this beast is said to keep up its flesh without taking
much food. The flesh is universally of a fine grain, juicy, and well tasted.
{Sparrman^s Voyage to the Cape of Good Hope, vol. ii. p. 206.) — Id.

The Flat-horned Antelope is easily tamed, and the flesh is excellent meat ;
the Chinese antelope, if taken young, is easily tamed ; the young of the
cervine antelope quickly grow tame, and herd with other cattle; the
white-footed antelope is usually very gentle and tame, and has been bred
in England. {Pennant^ s History of Quadrupeds, vol. i.) — Id.

Broad-tailed Sheep. — Of this kind of sheep there are several varieties ;
the flesh of some of them is very good; the tails weigh from 15 to 50 lbs.
These tails are esteemed a great delicacy, and are of a substance between
fat and marrow. In Thibet the fleece is very fine, beautiful, and long, and
is worked into shawls. A number of this kind of sheep have been intro-
duced into North America from the interior of Africa ; they are said to be
extremely valuable, both on account of the wool and the flesh ; and the
tail, in particular, which is 8 or 10 in. in breadth, is esteemed a great
delicacy. — Id.

West India Sheep. — These are frequently brought to England by the
merchant ships, and, after being fed for a short time in our pastures, the
flesh is so improved as to be compared to venison. — Id.

Abyssian Sheep. — A breed has been produced between an Abyssinian ram
and a French ewe; their fleece surpasses in brilliance any hitherto known
in Europe, and they are exceedingly hardy and prolific. Their beauty
excited general admiration. {From a newspaper of June, 1826.) — Id.

Cachemire Goat. — In France a cross breed has been obtained between
the Cachemire goats and Angora bucks : the hair of the kids is in much
greater quantity, and much longer. — Id.

The Warree Hog is very common in some parts of South America. In
size and shape it nearly resembles the European hog. Its flesh is less oily
and more delicate than the European pork, and is much esteemed by the
white inhabitants. — Id.

Effect of Incubation in lessening the Timidity of Birds. — Sir, Perhaps the
following communication may not be uninteresting to yom- readers, as it
shows how much the natural timidity of birds is lessened during incubation.
Some time since, a pair of blue titmice (Parus caeruleus) built their nest in the
upper part of an old pump, fixing it on the pin on which the handle worked.
It happened that, during the time of building and laying the eggs, the pump
had not been in use ; when again set going the female was sitting, and it
was naturally expected the motion of the pump-handle would drive her
away. The young brood were hatched safely, however, without any other

64- Zoology,

misfortune than the loss of a part of the tail of the sitting bird, which was
rubbed off by the friction of the pump-handle ; nor did they appear dis-
turbed by the visitors who were frequently looking at her. — Wm. Henry
Hill. Newland, Gloiicestei'shire, Sept. 10. 1828.

The Great American Bittern. — I was much interested with an account
I heard the other day of a bird, a species of heron. I believe it is called by
Wilson, in his Ornithology, the Great American Bittern ; but, what is very
extraordinary, he omits to mention a most interesting and remarkable cir-
cumstance attending it, which is, that it has the power of emitting a light
from its breast, equal to the light of a common torch, which illuminates the
water, so as to enable it to discover its prey.

As this circumstance is not mentioned by any of the naturalists that I have
ever read, I had a difiiculty in believing the fact, and took some trouble to
ascertain the truth, which has been confirmed to me by several gentlemen of
undoubted veracity, and especially by Mr. Franklin Peale, the proprietor of
the Philadelphia Museum. {Extract of a Letter from Philadelphia y to Mrs.
C, Hackney, Oct. U.\S2S.)

Yellow Greenfinch. — I beg to call your attention to a variety of the
Loxia Chloris (greenfinch), which was accidentally shot in a flock of chaf-
finches, yellowhammers, &c., in the neighbourhood of Ross, Herefordshire.
The prevailing colour is a rich yellow, tinged with green ; the top of the
head mottled with green, yellow, and a dirty white; the neck and throat
yellow, fading into white; the lesser coverts green, edged with bright yel-
low tipped with white ; the secondary quills ash-colour, edged with bright
yellow ; the breast, shades of green, yellow, and dirty white ; back and rump
greenish yellow ; vent, yellow ; tail, bright yellow on the outside ; the centre
feathers ash-colour, edged with green ; legs, dirty white. I have had this
curious mule set up by Mr. B. Ledbetter. — Id.

Change of Colour in the Plumage of the Goldfinch. — It has been stated
that when the goldfinch is fed on hemp-seed exclusively, the red and yel-
low colours of the plumage become black. I possess a living example of
this curious change. — J. Murray.

The Natural Intelligence of the Goldfinch (Fringilla Carduelis), were it not
well authenticated, would scarcely merit belief; but as the fact is undoubted,
I think it deserves being put on record. The circumstances are as follows ;
but as no dates were kept, the periods mentioned are only quoted from
memory : — It was very early in the spring of 1827, that a bird had been
lost from a cage, which was still hanging up, with the door open, in the
passage entrance to the back court of a gentleman's house in this town,
when a goldfinch was one morning found feeding in it, and the door was
closed upon it ; but, on inspection, as it appeared to be a female, it was very
shortly after restored to liberty. In the space, however, of about two hours
it returned, and entered the cage, when it was again shut in, and again
liberated ; and these visits were repeated daily for a considerable time. She
was then missing for some few days, but then returned, accompanied by a
male bird; she entered the cage, and fed as usual; but her companion, after
perching on the outside of the cage, retired to a neighbouring tree until she
joined him. They then quitted, and were no more thought of ; but, at the
end of about seven or eight weeks, she again made her appearance, and ac-
companied not by her former companion, but by four young ones, when she
again entered the cage, and fed as usual ; but as she could not induce her
brood (for such they were presumed to be) to follow her example ; she
finally went off with them, and has not since that time again made her ap-
pearance. I have written the foregoing account precisely as it was related
to me by the gentleman at whose residence it occurred, and I have not the
smallest doubt of the truth of it in every particular. — Mentor. Exmouth,
Aug. 26.1828.

^ologyz 65

' The Nightingale. — ^^This "poet bird/' ikfotacilla Xusclnia, sometimes
displays an eccentric and novel taste in the materials of her nest. One in-
teresting specimen of this kind was wholly constructed of skeleton leaves.
— J. Murray.

Presentiment in a Goose. — An old goose, that had been for a fortnight
•hatching in a farmer's kitchen, was perceived, on a sudden, to be taken
violently ill. She soon after left the nest, and repaired to an Out-house
where there there was a young goose of the first year, which she brought
with her into the kitchen. The young one immediately scrambled into the
old one's nest, sat, hatched, and afterwards brought up the brood. The
old goose, as soon as the young one had taken her place, sat down by the
side of the nest, and shortly after died. As the young goose had never'been
in the habit of entering the kitchen before, I know of no way of.accounting
for this fact than by supposing that the old one had some way of communi-
cating her thoughts and anxieties, which the other was perfectly able to
understand. A sister of mine, who witnessed the. transaction, gave me the
information in the evening of the very day it happened. — C. A. Brew,
Ennis, July 9. 1828.

Desertion of Geese. — I do not know if the following circumstance be of
frequent occurrence ; if not, it may interest the readers of the Magazine of
Natural History. I was walking along the beaoh which lies between the
rivers Dee and Don, one morning, about twelve months ago. It was blowing
a gale from N.W., and a cloudy thick atmosphere. I was attracted by a
loud cackling, seemingly overhead, and, on looking to windward, I observed
a large flock of birds. From the awkward motion of their wings, I was con-
'vinced they could not be wild ducks, and they seemed to be impelled rather
by the wind than their own exertions. They continued their course to the
seaward, and I lost sight of them in the haze. Next day Ihad a letter from

a friend in the county, stating that Mrs. of 's duck-pond had been

deserted the former morning by her thirty geese, which had all taken flight,
and had riot since been heard of. — A. B. Aberdeen^ Nov.XZ. 1828.

Flying Geese. — In confirmation of H. S.'soiotice of a curious duck, and
the fifteen geese mentioned in your Magazine (Vol. I. p. 37*7.), allow me to
state that it is very common for domestic geese to take flights to a consi-
derable distance. Some time ago, my father had a large flock, which fed on
high ground not visible from the house. They were lessened, as occasion
required, to about six ; these were fetched home every night, for some
- weeks ; and very frequently, on seeing the house from the top of the hill,
they would take wing and fly homewards, making a circuit of about a mile.
' On one occasion they were nearly alighting at a poird of water at the next
; farm-house, instead of a similar one near home j they soon, however, dis-
covered their mistake, and raised themselves in the air to nearly as great a
height as before, alighted at their own water, and were at it long before
their driver, notwithstanding that the latter mostly went in a direct line.
This is the more singular, because these geese were considered heavy and
fat, and nearly ready for making into good old-fashioned goose-pie. Query.
Was it not owing to their wanting water, and at the top of the hill, which
elevated the geese's spirits (if I may use the terra), and made them try to
accomplish that, on their wings, soo7ier than they could do on their legs? —
, T. F. Near Huddersfield, Dec. 12. 1828.

Fishes, and Mode of preparing them. — At Lake Ilmen, near Valdai, they
have a fish so like a herring, that it is called the fresh-water herring, and
also another fish said to resemble a smelt. They have a mode of preparing
them for a distant market, by putting them into ovens of a moderate tem-
perature, and gradually but thoroughly drying them. {Capt. Joneses Travels
in Norway.) Why may we not naturalise this fish, and adopt the same
mode of curing other fresh-water fishes ? — Rusticus in Urbe.
VOL.II.— No. 6. F

66 Zoology,

Attempt to naturalise the A^rctia 'ph<Borrh<B'a^ or Brovm4aU Moth. — Sir.
The account in your Magazine (Vol. I. p. 376.) of Sir John Sinclair's unsuc-
cessful attempt to naturalise the nightingale in the northern parts of the
island, calls to my recollection a somewhat similar experiment I once tried,
and with like success, on a subject of entomology ; a rather dangerous ex-
periment, you will perhaps think it, considering the ravages sometimes com-
mitted by the insect in question, A'rctia
phaeorrhae^a {fig. 14.), and the serious
alarm it once caused in the vicinity of
London. (See Curtiis Observations on
the Brown-tail Moth.) A''rctia phaeor-
rhae'^a is never found in this district (War-
wickshire); and my first acquaintance
Hvith it, in any state, took place some
years since, in the Isle of Wight, where
the hedges, in autumn, were absolutely
blighted to disfiguration with the numerous webs of this insect, under
shelter of which the infant caterpillars lie secure during the winter, ready
to come forth and devour the young foliage in the spring. Being anxious to
possess specimens of the moth, which at that time I had never even seen,l
accordingly took home with me a number of the webs, which, as I have
stated, formed the hybernacula of broods of the infant caterpillars. Many
of these 1 bred up in confinement to the perfect state. But wishing to see
whether I could not have a constant brood of them at hand, I placed a
'number of the webs on the hawthorn hedges, as soon as the leaves came
out in the spring. The young caterpillars fed freely, nOt seeming to regard
their transportation to a distant country. When arrived in due time at their
full growth, they retired, as I conclude, for the purpose of changing to the
pupa state ; but, though 1 have no doubt that many of the perfect insects
were produced, I could never observe a single specimen of the moth at large,
nor were any of the webs to be found about the hedges the following au-
tumn. The insect, in short, ceased to propagate itself in this district, and
the new-planted colony came speedily to an end. Whatever disappoint-
ment I might feel on the occasion (less, certainly, than Sir John Sinclair
might reasonably feel in his case), you will, perhaps, think I ought to rejoice
at the total failure of my experiment. — W. T. Bree, AUesley Bectory,
Nov. 13.1828.

The Zeuzera Bd'sculi ( Wood-leopard Moth) is by no means a common in-
sect in this country ; and as the habits and localities of lepidopterous insects
are of essential service to young entomologists, I hope the following notice
may be acceptable to some : — On the 10th of last May, whilst examining
the trunk of a pear tree in my garden, I observed, between four and five feet
from the ground, a substance resembling decayed sawdust, apparently pro-
truding from beneath the bark, of about the size of a small pea. Upon
removal, I found the bark had been perforated by some insect ; and on re-
moving some of the bark, I was enabled to trace the course taken by the
insect, which may be better explained with the assistance of the annexed
sketch. Upon entering the bark at a (fig. 15.), the insect appeared to
Tiave taken its direction downwards, as the cavity was not more than two
eighths of an inch sunk into the wood, till reaching b, where it was rather
more than three eighths, and partly filled with the excrement of the larva ;
at c, the cavity began gradually to approach towards the centre of the tree,
and take a regular shape, and continued at about half an inch in diameter
to D ; extending from b to d, 1 1 a in., and at d, l| in. from the circumfer-
ence of the tree. When the whole cavity was exposed, the larva appeared
as at E, with its head upwards. On account of the hardness of the wood,
and distance to which the insect had penetrated, I had some difficulty to get
at it without injuring it, and accidentally let the chisel slip against its side ;

Zoology. 67

the wound, though but slight at first, was sufficient to cause its death
after it had changed to a pupa. Not knowing the insect in that state, I took
it to Mr. Samouelie, who very kindly informed me, and also what treatment
it required.

I should be obliged to any of your correspondents who would inform me
if the larva undergoes its changes in the tree, and in what manner .^|ie. imago

extricates itself. It appeared to me that the cavity, at and near the entrance

A, was much too

small for the exit of

the insect in either

the larva or imago

state.

The moth (/g. 16.)
is found in July, as
Mr. Samouelie states,
(See^w^. Usef. Comp.
p. 246.) in St. James's
Park, against trees. I
would strongly recommend, to gardeners in general, a closer examination
of the stems of their fruit trees, by which many young trees might be
saved, and much information accrue to entomologists in that particular
branch of the science. I remain. Sir, yours, &c. — Andrew Mathews.
Alfred Home, Turnham Green, Sept. 18. 1828.

Distinction of Sex in Papilio Machaon. — I beg to call the attention of
your entomological readers to the distinction which the Cambridge collect-
ors consider as mai'king the sexes of the Papilio Machaon while in the pupa
state, viz. the colour. I obtained a number of the pupae of both kinds this
spring ; but, from an unlucky accident which happened to my specimens,
was unable to decide this fact. I subjoin a description of both. They are
exactly alike in shape, and correctly described in books as " angulated with
two processes in front," and are fastened, by an anal and transverse thread,
to the stalk of the 5felinum palustre, or marsh milk-parsley (on which the
larvae feed), with the head upwards, and the back of the abdomen touching
the stalk. The colour of that which is said to be the female is grass-green
with a slight tinge of rufous down each side. The colour of the male varies
"from nearly black to a light brownish rufous, having a darker line down
each side, and bordering the wing-cases; the two prominences on the front
of the head, that on the under side of the front of the thorax, and the inner
side of the prominences representing the fore legs of larvae, are dark rufous,
nearly, approaching to black. The wing-cases are slightly tinged with the
same colour, having a few black veins originating at the base, and running

F 2

6»

Zoology,

towards the anal angle, giving out branches toward the exterior margin
throughout their whole extent. The parts between what appear to be the
antennae are of a dark rufous colour; all parts which are not dark, are of a
milky white. The characters which appear to be common to both are, the
shape, and the rufous lines down the sides. I have found the above cha-
racters to hold in a large number of specimens. — C. C. Babington. 7. Hano-
ver Street, Bath, Juli/ 8. 1828.

First Developevient of a perfect Butterfly, or Moth. — Sir, Although in
Kirby and Spencer's valuable work there is an interesting description of the
first developement of the butterfly, yet 1 take the liberty of sending you an
account of an instance which fell under my own observation, as it contains
some particulars which do not appear in their narration.

The moth (Phalae'na />av6nia, emperor) {flg. 17.), which I observed, was
about five minutes getting out of its tomb ; its wings were at first small,
shrivelled, and flabby, its body very large and unwieldy ; for the first five
minutes after its exit it did nothing but stretch its legs, and lie first on one

side and then on the other, it afterwards lay gently down on its back, with
its wings lying negligently at each side; its pulse at this period was at 60,
for, as it lay stretched out, the joints of the abdomen, if I may use that term
for the pliable parts which are not so visible in a mature subject ^ike the
'^joints Ota lobster's body), were transparent, and I could therefore see the
internal movements : after remaining a few minutes in this state, the puls-
ation became considerably slower, and at the same time the wings began to
grow, the first process was the injection of a yellow fluid from the body,
which shot very rapidly into the hervure of the wings, and seemed to
strengthen them. Their further developement continued to proceed from
the base : the action resembled the convulsions of a bit of parchment in the
fire, and the wings, from the neiTures being tense, were very like a leaf of
Savoy cabbage. In about a quarter of an hour they had attained to theu*
'full size, but not strength : one side was perfected before the other was
half done; the colours and pencilling grew more evident and brilliant, as
the wings increased in size, which was the most beautiful part of the pro-
cess. The moth at last turned itself heels over head, and then walked
about a little, but was very dull, and the wings did not attain their maxi-
tnura of strength till about five hours after, when a copious evacuation took
place, and it immediately became quite lively. — E. T. January, 1829.

The stinging of a Gnat. '— Sir, As an illustration of the principle that
"knowledge and pleasure are the result of care and labour, even in the most
trifling things, I will relate to you the interest I lately felt in watching the

Zoology, 69

operations of a gnat while it was stinging me. On the 25th of October
last, and about two o'clock in the dayj a gnat (Culex plpiens) alighted on
my forefinger ; I held my hand still, and observed it. It immediately applied
its proboscis to the skin, at the same time moving its antennae and hind
legs slowly up and down, which it continued to do for a few seconds, when
it became apparently motionless, resting on its four front legs, with its hind
ones stretched out in a line with its abdomen. I now felt a slight sensation
where the proboscis was inserted, but so faint that, had not my attention
been directed to it, I probably should not have noticed it ; and this I only
felt for a second or two. The abdomen now began to swell gradually, the
influx of the blood being clearly visible, through its semi-transparent skin ;
at the same time, a clear watery liquid began to ooze from the anus, form-
ing a round globule ; it had a curious appearance, to see blood flowing in
at one end, and water out at the other ; the drop fell, and another formed,
the abdomen all the time getting larger and larger, and redder and redder,
till the second drop fell. The abdomen had now attained full three times'
its natural size, with a deep blood-red hue, when, to my great vexation, the
door opened, and away flew my little toper, without appearing the least
encumbered wi.th its bloody cargo

I must further observe, that the insect was altogether about one minute
on my finger ; that no part of the outer sheath of its proboscis was inserted
beneath the skin ; that I did not receive any warning of its bloody intentions
from its pipes. I mention this, because I think I have heard it affirmed, that
they always do give warning before an attack ; but what appeared to me the
most remarkable is, that there was not the slightest pain, inflammation, or
mark of any kind left that was perceptible. I remain, Sir, yours, &c. — J. A,
St. John's Woody Nov. 20. 1 828.

Spinning Slugs. — Sir, I have now before me a spinning slug, I mean a
slug, which I discovered suspended by the tail from the leaves of a tree for
the space of about a foot or more, and letting itself down towards the earth
by means of a fine thread, like that of a spider, or that by which the larvae
of many lepidopterous insects descend from the branches of trees. With
the single exception of its spinning propensity, the slug appears in all re-
spects exactly like the ordinary small grey slug (iimax agrestis), so com-
mon every where, and so destructive in our gardens. I have several times
met with these spinning slugs suspended by their threads ; but, as I can dis-
cover no difference in size, colour, or form from the common slug, I should
be glad to know whether they are to be considered as a distinct species, or
whether the common slug may not uniformly possess the same faculty,
though it has seldom occasion to exert it. The author of Elements of
Natural History y speaking of slugs in general, says that " they spin a thread,
by which they sometimes suspend themselves, or let themselves down from
heights : ** but this observation he makes while describing the general habits
of the genus, without appropriating it to any particular species. My slug
unfortunately made its escape from under the glass in which it was con-
fined, before I had fully satisfied my curiosity respecting it. I could not
perceive that it showed any disposition to spin while in confinement. —
W. T, Bree. Allesley Rectory j near Coventry ^ July 29. 182°

F 3

70 BotafiT/^

Art. II. Botany.

Curious instance oj Viviparous Production. — As a friend of mine, a bo-
tanist, in this town, was looking at some pieces of the J'Uium arenarium,
which he had kept by him for about two years, he found that several of the
seeds were germinating in the calyx and some had even put forth their co-
tyledon.—jL. E. O. Richmondy Aug. 10. 1828.

LathrcBa squamaria. — This curious plant is certainly not parasitic, as
has been supposed, for the plant has been transplanted from its original site
to the garden, and it there grew well enough. Iknow of none capable of
giving a more interesting account of it than my friend, J. C. Bowman, Esq.
F.L.S., who has paid particular attention to its habitats and habits. — J.
Murray.

White Varieties of Flowers. ^ There are many flowers of which white
varieties are to be found not mentioned by Smith. The /Scilla nutans occurs
perfectly white in a small wood close to Chestford Bridge, near Kenil worth,
and likewise at Leamington, in a wood attached to the beautiful cottage of
R. Poole, Esq., solicitor. It has been found also at Halstock, in this county.
We have here the Prunilla vulgaris, snow-white, the bracteas of which are
without any tinge of purple. — W. i/., R. N. Yeovil, August 5. 1828.

Spontaneous Appearance of Epipdctis latifolia. {fig. 18.)— Sir, about the
year 1811 I enclosed a small piece of
ground, for the purpose of making an oak
plantation. In the course of a few years,
when the young trees began to form a low
wood, I was surprised to see several fine
plants of J^pipactis latifolia make their ap-
pearance among the oaks. They have ever
since continued to do so in considerable
abundance, and in various parts of the
plantation. I observe too, that it frequently
(though by no means always) happens, that
an individual plant dies after flowering, or
at last ceases to come up agmn in the same
identical spot a second year. Thus, e. g., in
the summer of 1827, 1 had in the plantation
several remarkably fine specimens, bearing
a profusion of flowers, throwing up two or
more stems from the root, and growing to the height of between 5 and 4 ft.,
the largest, in short, that I ever saw of the species. But, to my disappoint-
ment, these fine specimens ^id not throw up any shoots or leaves the fol-
lowing season ; nor had I, though there was an abundance of specimens,
either so many, or such fine ones, as in the preceding year. I do not find
any very weak plants, having the appearance of being young seedlings, few
occurring but such as are strong enough to produce flowers, I am un-
aljle, therefore, to state with any certainty, by what means the plant has
propagated itself to its present extent. Still less am I able to account for
Its first appearance in this situation, coming up, as it did, spontaneously, and
apparently springinganto vigour all at once.

Your botanical correspondents will probably be ready to propose an easy
solution of the difficulty, by suggesting that the seeds had lain dormant in
the ground (as, we know, often happens), till they were roused into vege-
tation by the earth being disturbed and prepared for the purpose of making
the plantation. But this could hardly be the case in the present instance ;
for the piece of ground taken for the plantation consisted of a part of tNvo
fields, one arable, and the other sometimes in grass and sometimes in til-
lage ; and both of them had frequently been ploughed no long time before

Geology and Mineralogy: 71

the plantation was made. Neither, again, will it be thought probable that the
seeds had been wafted to the spot by the wind, when it is stated that I never
met with a single wild specimen of the ^pipactis in any other situation in
this neighbourhood, the nearest place where I have observed it to occur in
a wild state, being not less than eight or ten miles distant. As jBpipactis
latifolia, though by no means a very rare plant, is yet entitled to rank inter
rarioresj I confess I have felt some pleasure in its having taken up its con-
stant and voluntary abode on my premises ; and should you think this ac-
count of the circumstance likely also to aiFord any interest to your readers,
you will perhaps find a corner for it in your Magazine. — W. T, Bree. Al-
Lesley Rectory, Nov, 3. 1828.

Art. III. Geology and Mineralogy.

Volcanic District between the Rhine and Moselle. — Few districts in
Europe are more interesting to the geologist than that lying to the north of
the Moselle, and the west of the Rhine, and occupying the greater portion
of the angle formed by the confluence of these two rivers. This tract, which
has an average breadth of thirty to forty miles, bears indubitable traces of
having in remote ages been the scene of volcanic eruptions throughout a
great part of its extent, and the most determined Neptunist, whatever he
may contend as to the subsequent agency of water, must admit that here,
once at least, fire has been in general and extensive agency. In some quar-
ters are seen isolated conical hills, which bear every appearance of being of
volcanic origin ; in others are deep circular lakes, of no great extent, which
have been plausibly supposed to occupy extinct craters ; and in various
directions where the ground has been opened, lava, pumice stone, and other
volcanic products are found in profusion. One of these is the well known
cement, improperly called Dutch Tarras, from the circumstance of its being
brought from Andernach, and other towns on the Rhine, to Holland, whence
before the invention of Roman cement, it was shipped to England, and still
is to various parts of Europe. As little of this interesting district is seen by
those who pass from Brussels into Germany or Switzerland, by the ordinary
route on the left bank of the Rhine, I would advise geologists travelling in
this direction, to make the same deviation from the direct road that I did
last summer, going from Spa across the country to Bertrich-Bad, a romantic
watering-place, excellently situated for making excursions in different direc-
tions, and where we staid ten days, and thence to Coblentz, and there re-
sume the main road. The distance is not greater than the direct route by
Aix-la-Chapelle and Cologne, the scenery often highly picturesque, and the
road very tolerable. In one part, in crossing a heath, it was necessary to
have a fifth horse, in addition to the four which our well-filled berline re-
quired ; but in general the roads were equal to the cross roads in England,
and much of the way very superior. The whole distance from Spa to Ber-
trich-Bad is about seventy miles, of which we made an easy three days' journey,
sleeping the first night at the village of Schoenburg, and the second atGe-
rolstein. At this last, and indeed at almost every neighbouring village is a
mineral spring, containing oxide of iron, held in solution by an excess of
carbonic acid gas, exactly resembling the Spa water. If one of these nume-
rous springs, of which the water, sparkling like champagne, and hardly less
agreeable to the taste is constantly drank by the villagers as their ordinary
beverage, and has, besides medicinal virtues far more potent than those of
Tunbridge, could be transported to England, it would be cheap at the price
of many thousand pounds. Fastidious travellers would not relish the hum*
fole fare of these village inns, but our party look on this excursion as one of

' F 4;

7^2 Geology and Mineralogy^

the most delightful of our whole tour, from the opportunity it afforded of
seeing a genuine picture of the manners of the German peasants, and the
many amusing -little adventures which befel us. At Gerolstein, near to
which is a distinct crater, and many other interesting geological objects, be-
sides much picturesqe scenery. Our hostess, Fraulein Klein, an old maid,
was a perfect counterpart to Meg Dods, in St. Ronan^s Well ; and an imi-
tator of Sir Walter Scott might advantageously take up his abode with her
jfor a fortnight, to study the oddities of this original, as the sub-heroine ot
a novel to be called the Castle of Gerolstein, the ruins of which frown over
a perpendicular rock, towering close above the inn. Such travellers, how-
ever, as do not think the laughable eccentricities of an original character a
compensation for bad fare, I would advise to leave Spa in the afternoon,
and sleep the first night at Malmedy, and the second at Priiym, at both
which places are very tolerable inns ; and thus perform the whole journey
in two days and a half, dining the last day at Daun, a village between Gerol-
stein and Bertrich-Bad, where is an excellent inn, in the^ parlour of which
we found a piano-forte, with Mozart*s opera of Don Juan lying open, and
violins and flutes, &c., hanging on the walls ; and while my daughter played
on the piano, the host's son (in a blue smock frock) accompanied her on
the guitar, and, like the rest of this amiable family, was as intelligent a&
well bred. As there are no post stations, it is necessary to hire horses for
the whole journey ; and as no one at Spa could give any account of the
road, which few English have travelled, and the voiturier who conducted
us, and was previously equally ignorant of it, is the only one there who has
been the road, it may not be superfluous to mention that his name is Re-
made Deblon, and that we found him very civil and careful.

Bertrich-Bad, besides being very romantic and delightful in itself, is a con-
venient station for examining the geology of this district at leisure, as there
is a large hotel, much frequented in the summer both by patients using the
warm baths^ and by lovers of the picturesque ; and very frequently by Ger-
man geologists from Bonn, &c., who, as well asHerr Bodife,the bath-inspector,
would afford every information as to the objects most worthy of attention.
The two near to Bertrich-Bad, are the Kase Grotte, a highly curious grotto,
formed in part of basaltic columns, intersected at regular distances by deep
transverse circular furrows, so as to resemble cheeses piled on each other,
whence the name ; and the crater of Falkenlei, an extinct volcano, which
alone is worth a long journey to see. The hill occupied by this crater, and
in fact formed by the volcano, has been split in two by some great con-
vulsion, and while one half has fallen into a deep adjoining valley, the other
half remains erect, and, being easily accessible by convenient walks, offers a
close and extremely interesting view of the interior of the crater, with the
lava just as fresh and full of air-bubbles as the slag of a blacksmith's forge,
and looking as if it had not been extinguished a twelvemonth. Of this and
the other interesting objects which the neighbourhood affords, full accounts
may be found in Dr. Harless's Das Bad zu JBertrich (Coblentz, 1827), and
in several other German publications quoted in this useful work. I regret that
both ill health, and my superficial acquaintance with geology, prevented me
from making those minute observations which alone could give any scien-
tific value to the present article, the only object of which is to show my
sense of the utility of your well-planned Magazine, and to induce competent
geologists to take the route which I and my family found so interesting. —
W. Spence. Brussels, Jan. 20. 1829.

Evident traces of Manganese in Slate. — Slate inclining to pearly, from a
quarry about half a mile west of Ilfracombe, and a dark greenish slate from
Dennifole, in Cornwall, as also some of the dark- coloured micas, give very
evident traces of manganese, when treated with borax and soda in the
manner described in my former letter (Vol. L p. 384.). — W, H. M,

Geology afid Mineralogy,

73

Fossil Astdria. —I send you a drawing of the ^steria (fg. 19.), found at
Horsington, by the Rev. James Hooper, Rector of Stawell. It was taken

from a stratum of cornbrash, and is a very perfect specimen. The sketch
and the figure is of the exact size of the original ; a is the stone in which it
is embedded, and b a section of a small bivalve shell. I am, Sir, &c. —
W. H., R. N. Yeovil, Aug. 21. 1828.

Washing of Gold. — The art of washing gold was practised on the Rhine
from early antiquity up to 1824, when it ceased near Basil ; but a few men
continue to be employed in the environs of Lohr, as at Wittenweir there
are three, at Nonnenweir fourteen, &c. The gold is found in a coarse allu-
vial deposit, and sometimes forms a coating on the pebbles. The banks
containing the gold are usually about 100 paces in length. They are for
the most part on the margin of the river, and rarely in the islands. The
banks of pebbles containing the gold are covered with coarser pebbles and
vegetable earth. {Zeitschr^t fur Mineral., Juin, p. 533.)

7i

PART IV.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. Natural History in Foreign Countries,

FRANCE.

Metz, Dec. 9. — Our last notes (Vol. I. p. 472.) left us in the Museum
here collected chiefly by M. HoUandre, and proposing to visit the cabinet
of birds of M. Meslier de Rocan, and the plantations of M. Durand, and of
the late Baron Tschoudy. M. Hollandre has published Fawie du Departe-
ment de la Moselle, et principalement des Environs de Metz, Sfc.y in 1 2mo,
1825. It is arranged after the system of Cuvier, and the number and variety
of birds are very considerable. At the end of the work a list is given of a
cabinet of white varieties of birds belonging to M. le baron Marchant,
which includes specimens perfectly white of birds usually black ; as the
crow, blackbird, magpie, &c. ; and of others naturally more or less red, as
the redbreast, &:c.

The collection of birds in M. Meslier*s cabinet is confined to those of
Europe, and only wants two or three species to be complete. It is
arranged after the Manual of M. Temminck (4th edit. 1820), and is in
excellent preservation. He had been offered for it, as we were informed,
upwards of a thousand pounds. He gave us a MS. catalogue, which, with
the Faune of M. Hollandre, we have presented to the Zoological Society.

The by-roads are in such a state in the neighbourhood of Metz, that at
this season we were informed it was scarcely possible to approach the plant-
ations of the late Baron Tschoudy at Colombo. We, therefore, after
taking leave of M. Coutie, Madame Coutie (who, having no children, and
finding it necessary to occupy herself with something, devoted herself to
botany, in which she is known to have acquired a scientific and practical
knowledge), M. Durand, M. Simon (the readers of our Magazines at
Metz), and our other friends there, and promising to return to them in
about two years, left for Paris on the lOth, and arrived there on the 12th
of December.

Paris, Dec. 15. 1828, to Jan. 11. 1829. — It would not be very easy to
relate all that we saw and did here during our stay in September (Vol. I.
p. 585.) and at this time. It is unnecessary to talk of the Jardin des Plant es,
of the Museum d'Histoire Naturelle, and of other cabinets, libraries, and
exhibitions, which are, or ought to be, seen by every body. We had the
satisfaction of showing specimens of our forthcoming Encyclopcedia of
Plants and Hortus Britannicus, and of explaining the improvements which
we have attempted in the abridgment of botanical description to Pro-
fessor Decandolle, MM. Mirbel, Desfontaines, Bory de-St.- Vincent, Ad.
Brongniart, the Baron de F6'ussac, and a number of the members of the
Natural History Society, and of receiving their approbation. This appro-
bation, liowever, we shall only value when we see our improvements
adopted by these gentlemen in their published works ; and this we do not

Natural History in Foreign Countries, 75

expect to see, unless from M. Decandolle, till our Encyclopadia and
Hortus have been some time in circulation.

The naturalists and other scientific men of Paris have great advantages
over those of London. The French government devotes a large sum
annually to the support of scientific and literary institutions in the metro-
polis. Public lectures on every subject may be attended gratis ; the most
complete museums and libraries are of the easiest access. The social meet-
ings at the houses of distinguished individuals, or of public bodies, such,
for example, as those of the Baron Cuvier, the Baron F^russac, the Insti-
tute, the Athenaeum, &c., are frequent ; and the intercourse at such meet-
ings is of real use to literary men, because difference of worldly circum-
stances enters into them for little or nothing. It is not to be wondered,
therefore, that with superior native vivacity and acuteness, and all these
opportunities, the French philosophers should be the first in the world. To
profit from this state of things, a stranger should reside in Paris at least
two years ; and this we would most strongly recommend to parents, as the
finishing process previous to travelling, for young men of from sixteen to
twenty years of age.

Man in the North of France, — As we gave our opinion (Vol. I. p. 482.)
on the natural and artificial character of man in the south of Germany, we
hope to be excused for offering a few remarks in a natural-history point of
view on man in the north of France. Whether our opinion be considered
right or wrong, we shall only say that it is not to be considered as hastily
formed after a single visit ; because we have been in France at different
times since 1814, and met with French people in various parts of Europe
before and after that period. Our opinion is, that the Frenchman of the
northern provinces is, by nature, a superior animal to either the English*
man or the German ; but that by education, including the influence of
government, religion, and the backward state of the useful arts, he is, at
present, inferior to them. The cause of the natural superiority we con-
sider to be principally the climate, and chiefly the superior purity and free-
dom from moisture of the air. This element is inhaled by us for what may
be called its nutriment, during every moment of our existence, and its
quality must, therefore, have an effect upon our constitution and character,
so much greater than all the other elements of nutrition put together, that
it is hardly possible for us to form an adequate idea of the full extent of
its influence. The next powerful natural agent is temperature, and, we
think, it may be very safely affirmed that of any two people, alike in respect
to education and civilisation, those will be highest in the scale of excel-
lence, who have been born, and who live, in the purest air and mildest
climate. If agriculture and the useful arts, including government and reli-
gion, were as far advanced in France as in England, we think the French-
man would be the superior character to the Englishman ; and were the arts
in France equal to the arts in England, and the state of education equal
to what it is in Wurtemburg, we cannot avoid coming to the conclusion that
the Frenchman in the latitudes of Paris and Rouen would be the first being
in the west of Europe. Some may think this conclusion humbling, but \ve
cannot see how it is to be avoided. There is some presumption that man in
certain parts of Asia Minor and Greece, and possibly of Italy, might attain
to a higher degree of perfection than in France, as civilisation first began to
spread in these countries ; but our comparison does not extend to them.

The native excellence of the character of the French consists in the
warmth of their affections, and in the clearness and rapidity of their intel-
lectual faculties. Their native faults are, of course, the extremes of their
native virtues; insincerity, because they are led by the warmth of their
feelings to promise more than, upon trial, theyiind they can perform ; and
speculative rather than useful science, because the reward of the latter is
the work of time, and requires the exercise of patience, while the lustre of

76 , Natural History in Foreign Countries,

a brilliant invention encircles the head of the inventor with rays of imme-
diate glory.

The defects in the natural character of the French, are to be counter-
acted by the progress of civilisation, and more especially by inducing,
among all ranks, a greater taste for vs^hat an Englishman calls the solid
comforts of life. To improve the country people to the utmost in a
physical point of view, it is necessary that they should eat a greater pro-

Eortion of animal food, drink better wine, cider, or beer, and that their
ouses should be more commodiously planned, and more fully stocked with
furniture. The introduction of an improved agriculture, and of useful
manufactures, will effect both these objects ; and if, while this improve-
ment is taking place, care be taken to educate, not slightly, but effectually,
every individual, so as to elevate the moral character and taste of the
laborious classes, and prevent them from falling into that state of de-
gradation and misery which is connected with improved agriculture and
the extreme of manufacturing industry in England, every thing will be at-
tained which the friends of human nature could desire.

The grand principle wanting to develope every other in France, is
general and effectual education. Not an education which merely teaches
a slight knowledge of reading, writing, and arithmetic, such as was formerly
open to every body in Scotland ; but a system of instruction commencing
in the third or fourth year of infancy, in the manner of what are called
infant schools, and continued alike to males and females to the age of
fourteen or fifteen. During this period every thing worth knowing may be
taught, and a style of manners and morals formed and impressed in such a
way as to remain during future life. Every one submitted, so to speak, to
this degree of education, will not profit from it alike; and it is in the
nature of things, and suitable to the constitution of society, that this dif-
ference should exist ; but every one, even the most intellectually obtuse,
will know how to read, write, and count, and take a certain tone of manners
and moral habits, which will fit them for some one useful capacity or other,
and render them agreeable and honest to any who come in contact with
them.

, We never contend that all will benefit equally from education, however
well or however long they may be subjected to it ; all we insist on is, that
all should be subjected to a certain degree of it during a certain length
of time. We would, if possible, put every human being on a level in
point of knowledge, morals, and manners : we know we cannot do this,
because the original faculties of man are opposed to it ; but we would give
to all a ,fair and full chance of developing their faculties to the utmost,
and, having done this, we would leave individuals to work their way in the
world subject to the influence of all that it contains. Supposing education
to be a fluid, we would immerse every male and female child in it (and for
very important reasons, in addition to that of humanising all ranks, in the
same vessel), during a certain length of time, that the body of each might
imbibe according to its powers of absorption.

Being taken out, those of the poorest parents, and who at the same time,
in consequence of natural defect, had imbibed least of the education fluid,
would fall into the ranks of house servants, male and female, or would en-
gage as sailors or soldiers ; those who, in consequence of a little more native
intellect, had absorbed a little more fluid, but who were still of the poorest
parents, would take the grade of labourers, agriculturists, and gardeners, the
females following dress-making, or other light trades, or becoming body-ser-
vants to ladies of rank j those whose parents had some little property,
whatever quantity of fluid they might have absorbed, would commence their
business education, by being apprenticed to some trade or manufacture, the
females becoming governesses and teachers ; those a little higher, when
taken out, would commence their professional education, with a view to law,

Natural History in Foreign Countries, 77

physic, the fine arts, &c., by being sent to college ; and the bame of the
children of persons of rank and independence, whose education would be
completed by a course of travelling and residence in other countries.

It may to some, perhaps, seem frivolous or ridiculous to enter into such
details : but we have considered them necessary, in order to prevent our-
selves from being mistinderstood ; and lest any one should think that, be-
cause we wish to bring all men and women, as near as their natures will
admit, to a level in point of knowledge and manners, we wish to subvert
the existing orders and ranks of society. We contemplate nothing of the
kind. According to the above system, the servant and the labourer will
be as completely subordinate to their masters as at present, though under
such a system of education the servant would necessarily know more then
than the master does now. All the contemplated difference between the
present state of society, and that which high and equal education and man-
ners would produce, would be a much more general diffusion of humanity*,
sympathy, and happiness.

To produce this state of things, it appears to us essentially necessary
that the education for the lowest class of society should be enforced
by government. At first sight, it appears inconsistent with approved
principles to maintain such an opinion; for, if education be of so
great an advantage, why should not individuals be left to pursue it as
they do every other good ? Our answer is, that this reasoning will apply
to all those classes of society who are in easy circumstances ; but that
we do not think it will ever apply to the lowest class in any country,
however highly civilised that country may be. The lowest class may,
in all times and places, be considered as treading the brink of misery ;
the only means of preventing their precipitation into the gulf, is by the
continual exercise of their labour. Now, the temptation of poor pa-
rents, or of a poor widow or widower, to make use of the labour of their
children as soon as the physical strength of the latter permits, is, or appears to
us to be, too great to be continually before them without their falling into it.
We think, therefore, that for a perfect system of education to be effective,
whatever may be the state of the country to which it is applied, it will always
be necessary to compel the lowest class to send their children to school dur-
ing a certain period, as in Germany (Vol. I. p. 485.) ; and that it will always
be advantageous to have a law, rendering it illegal to employ any one who
could not show a-certificate of having attended this period, as in the same
country. For the class above the lowest, perhaps the law declaring it illegal
to employ any person without a certificate might suffice ; and, for all the
higher classes, we should^ say, admit none as officers in the army or navy,
to public or state employments, or to what is called good society, who were
not known to have taken a degree at some university, or to have done
something equivalent. We have elsewhere shown * that, in a properly edu-
cated and highly civilised nation, the name of every individual, when he
or she had completed the prescribed education, or, in other words, were
intellectually born into society, ought to be published in a local newspaper
or gazette, in the same way as physical births into the world are at present.

In order that a system of education, to be applied generally, may effect all
that it is capable of effecting, we think that it should be conducted on what
we shall call the Natural History System ; i. e. that it should be totally

* Des E'tablissemens pour P^ducation publique en Baviere, dans le Wir-
temberg, et a Bade ; et Remarques sur les Ameliorations a introduire dans
ces ^tablissemens pour les faire adopter en France, en Angleterre, et autres
pays. Paris, pamph. 8vo, 1829. — The essence of this work will be given in
the Gardener^s Magazine,

•^ Natural History in Foreign Countries.

freed from peculiar religious instruction.*, Experience shows that, where
mankind are allowed to think at all, they will never be brought to think
alike on so indefinite a subject as religion ; and, therefore, in a school to
which the children of persons of all religions are to be sent, instruction in
any one particular religion must necessarily be omitted. But morality,
which, in most countries, is more or less taught as dependent on religion
(most erroneously, in our opinion), must not be omitted ; and this is what
we would teach on what we call the Natural History principle ; i. e. simply
with reference to the good it produces to man in his worldly character.
There are a sufficiency of motives exclusively belonging to this life, to pro-
duce all the charitable, generous, honest, and honourable actions taught by
the laws of Christianity, or by any other laws. These motives are independ-
ent of abstract opinions, and refer simply to the rewards and punishments,
from the grosser to the most refined, of this life. Being, therefore, more
certain, they must be safer to build on than any system of promises and
threats, on the fulfilment of which the party, however firmly he may
believe and conscientiously he may act at one time, may at another have
doubts, and so far change his opinion as to be left without any other
guiding principles than those to which we allude. It were better, therefore,
Jto begin with these motives, because, being mattters of fact, they cannot
be denied or overturned; while religious principle can, in due time, be super-
added. We have entered into details on this subject in the pamphlet referred
to, and therefore shall not here repeat them ; but we cannot help adding,
that almost every execution that we read of in the newspapers confirms us
m our opinion. It is common among the Protestants to express horror at
the idea of absolution being given for moral offences by a Catholic priest ;
but is not the idea of absolution as certainly obtained by the Protestant
murderer, on the scaffold, by some other process ? It is ascertained that the
Catholic banditti of Italy trust for salvation entirely to this idea, and will it
be said that Protestant sinners are exempt from some corresponding influ-
.ence ? Might not a stranger to both systems of Christianity say, there must
be something radically wrong, either in the principles of your religion, or
in its administration, which, in its application, admits of the most horrid
murderers that ever existed, when brought to punishment, dying on the
scaflTold full of happiness]and joy, instead of being overwhelmed with a sense
of remorse, or a feeling of infamy ?

The liberal and enlightened party in France are at present intensely
occupied with the subject of general education ; and we most sincerely hope
that they will not rest short of establishing it in as perfect a manner, and on
as firm a bas^s, as the present enlightened age and the existing state of poli-
tical harmony admit. They will, by this means, and by means of the rapid
improvements which they are making in agriculture and manufactures f ,

♦ Let no reader take alarm at this assertion, which has nothing to do
with religion, as such, but merely the introduction of one particular kind of
religion into a school composed of children whose parents are of various
sects. The principle contended for is already acted on by the School So-
ciety of Ireland. {Gard. Mag.^ vol. v. p. 84.) It was also set out with in the
London University; though we regret to see, in a letter signed by Dr. Lard-
ner and Mr. Dale, in this (Feb. 12.) day*s Times, that a sort of accommo-
dation to existing opinions has been made by these gentlemen, which we
cannot but consider as derogatory to the University, whose chair of moral
philosophy ought to have been sufficient for every purpose proposed to be
effected by the divinity lectures of Mr. Dale.

f See two excellent articles in the Foreign Quarterly Revieiv (arts. i. and
xi.), attributed to Professor M'Culloch. These articles, written in the best
spirit, alike merit the perusal of thinking men in both nations. See also the

Natural History in Foreign Countries, 79

not only raise themselves to a degree of civilisation and happiness hitherto
unattained, but, by their example, effect the same object for England, Ger-
many, and all other countries.

To return to our legitimate subject, we hope to show, in future Num-
bers, that the time we spent in Paris, and generally the whole of our four
months' tour, has not been without profit to our readers ; and, conclude by
stating that 72ana arborea, Vallisneria spiraUs, Wistaria Consequawa, An-
dromeda arborea, and other plants and animals which we brought from
Garlsruhe (Vol. I. p. 481.), arrived safe at Bayswater. — Cond,

GERMANY.

The Congress of the German Naturalists, — In all ages and countries,
men who have followed the same pursuits have felt themselves to be united
in interest and happiness, and nave sought to realise this union, and
strengthen it, by actual personal associations. In the earliest ages, these
unions or societies were few and comparatively local, and they must gene-
rally have been confined to nations speaking the same language. With the
progress of things, the circle of these associations has extended wider ; and
the probability is, that, in time, every society whose objects do not interfere
with established religions or governments, will reckon amongst its members
people of all nations. The fairs and games of the earliest ages indicate
the infancy of this state of things ; and the voluntary annual meetings of
the naturalists, of the military men, of the musicians, and of the students
of Switzerland, in the different towns of that country, and of the German
naturalists and medical practitioners, in the different towns of Germany,
indicate its present state.

The Congress of the German naturalists owes its origin to Professor
Schweigger at Halle, and Professor Oken at Jena, who traced the plan, in
1818, that was first carried into execution at Leipsic, in 1S22. There were
then only eight members present j but Professor Blumenbach was among
them, and they resolved to meet every year, on the 18th of September, this
period falling in the middle of one of the two long vacations of the German
universities. " The sessions are held alternately, one year in a town of the
north, and the next in one of the south of Germany ; always fixing, by a
majority of voices, the place for tHi next session ; and the president and
secretary having there their abode, to make the necessary arrangements for
the meeting. Other regulations have not been wanting ; and, since that time,
the Congress has assembled successively at Leipsic, Halle, WUrzburg, Frank-
fort, Dresden, and, last year, in Munich, where its members were most nobly
received by the King of Bavaria, the greatest patron of the arts in our
times. Then they resolved to meet, in 1828, at Berlin; and the Aristotle
of the modern age, Baron Alexander von Humboldt, was chosen president ;
and M. Lichtenstein, Professor of Natural History at the same university,
honorary secretary." {For. Rev, and Cont. Misc, for Oct, 1828, p. 505.)
The Prussian government did all that the officers of the Congress suggested,
in order to make the stay of its learned guests at Berlin as comfortable as
possible. The Meeting lasted a week, and the following is a statement of
the countries from which the members came who were present : — The
whole number was 467, of which Berlin alone supplied 197, the rest of
Prussia, 127 ; Saxony, 31 ; Bavaria, 12 ; Hanover, 7 ;jWurtemberg, 3 ; the
other States of the German Confederation and Switzerland, 55; the Aus-
trian States, 1; Sweden, 12; Denmark, 7; Poland, 5; Russia, 2; Eng-
land, 2; France, 2 ; Norway, 1; and Naples, 1.

Journal d* Education et if Instruction^ de M. le Comte de Lasteyrie.
Paris, 8 vo, monthly.

80 Natural History hi Foreign Countries.

Baron h amboldt delivered a discourse at the opening (which has been
printed), and another at the close, of the Mieeting. Various memoirs were
read by different members; and, amongst them, one by M. Reinwardt (of
Leyden), on the characters of the vegetable kingdom in the Indian Archi-
pelago. The project of a new edition of Pliny's Natural History was dis-
cussed. It was stated that the King of Bavaria had sent a young scholar to
collate the MSS. at Florence and in Paris, and that the King of Saxony had
promised his assistance to obtain a collection of those at Madrid, in the
Escurial, and at Toledo ; and a hope was expressed that the Prussian go-
vernment might defray the expense of a collation of the Vossian Codex, at
Oxford. Professor Lichtenstein said that the Berlin Academy had made
such great sacrifices for an edition of Aristotle, that it could do nothing on
this occasion. Professor Oken, on this, suggested that every member pre-
sent should subscribe a dollar, as a fund towards the expenses of the pro-
jected edition of Pliny, which was done, to the number of about 400.

The following is an extract from the opening speech of Baron Humboldt,
as given in the Foreign Review and Continental Miscellany : — "In every
place where the German language is resounding, where its philosophical
structure exercises its influence on the minds and on the feelings of the na-
tion, from the highest top of the Alpine mountains of Europe down to the
other bank of the Vistula, where astronomy is raised to new splendour in
the country of Copernicus, in every place of the large regions inhabited by
the German nation, we make it our business to enquire into the secrets of
the powers of nature, displayed in the ample vault of heaven, in the deepest
problems of mechanics, in the bowels of the terraqueous globe, or in the
finest tissues of organic beings. Protected by magnanimous princes, this
Society has increased every year in interest and in extension. Every dif-
ference produced by diversity of faith and of political constitution has va-
nished here. Germany reveals here its intellectual unity ; and this unity
weakens none of the ties attaching us to the constitution or the laws of our
birthplace, in the same manner as the knowledge of truth, and the perform-
ance of duty, are the final scope of morals. It is this separation in life, this
/emulation of mental efforts, which the glorious annals of the German nation
•prove to be productive of the highest achievements of humanity, of science,
and of the fine arts.

" The principal purpose of this SocISty does not consist, like that of other
•academies forming a close corporation, in the communication of memoirs,
,in giving a number of lectures, all written to be printed, after some time, in
their Transactions. No ; its principal purpose is to encourage the inter-
course of men cultivating the same field of science j the oral exchange of
ideas making them more impressive and stimulating in the shape of facts, of
opinions, or of doubts ; and in the formation of relations of friendship ;
■illustrating the science, agreeably tempering the habits of life, and giving
forbearance and amenity to the manners.

" Tmth cannot be discovered without difference of opinions ; for it is
never known at once in its whole extent, nor simultaneously by the whole of
mankind. Every step appearing to lead the naturalist towards his distant
goal, brings him only to the entrance-door of new labyrinths. The quantity
of doubt is not diminished ; it spreads only, like a movable mist, over other
regions. Those who call a golden age the times when diversity of views,
or, vulgarly speaking, the disputes of men of learning, will be settled, have
no idea of the wants of science, and of its uninterrupted progress, and are
like those who, with lazy self-complacency, defend, from year to year, im-
mutably the same opinions."

The Meeting of next year will be held at Heidelberg. Baron Humboldt
mentioned, in his farewell discourse, that he should be unable to attend, as
he calculated that he should be then on his travels in Asia, most probably
in the heart of Siberia. Report speaks in the highest terms of the excellent

Natural Histoty in Foreign Countries. Ml

arrangements of the late Meeting, and of the extreme kindness of the king,
in providing, in the most liberal manner, for the comforts and accommoda-
tion of all the members who attended. {For. Quaii,. Eev.y Jan.)

We hope the time is not far distant when there will be similar assem-
blies, not only of naturalists, but of scientific men in every department,
from every part of the world. — Cond.

The Wurtemberg Society for undertaking Voyages of Natural History, has
hitherto sent out only botanists, whose collections in Sardinia, Istria, Smyr-
na, Carinthia, &c., have given entire satisfaction to the shareholders. It is
now proposed to send out mineralogists, and M. Kurr has already departed
for Scandinavia. The shares are 1 5 florins ; and, on the expiration of the
voyage, the shareholder receives, according to his wishes, either specimens
in botany or mineralogy. {For. Rev., Jan.)

Universal Language. — M. BUrger, of Heidelberg, well known by his
mathematical works, has announced a system of universal language, by
which a correspondence may be kept up, on easy and certain principles, by
individuals of all nations, although totally unacquainted with each other's
native language. The acquisition of the system will scarcely require two
days. {For. Rev , Jan.)

Remains of Tropical Plants. — M. Humboldt seems to be of opinion that
the existence of the remains of tropical plants, &c., in northern latitudes,
may be accounted for from the former internal heat of the globe, now, as
he imagines, greatly diminished by volcanic spiracles, &c. {Tableau de la
Nature.)

HOLLAND AND THE NETHERLANDS.

Weaih&r at Brussels. — The present winter seems likely to exceed that
of 1826-7 in severity. It set in on the 6th, and the frost has been keen and
steady ever since. As you may like to compare our weather with yours,
I copy my register of the height of the thermometer in the shade, at 8
o'clock each morning, for this month. [We have added the temperature
at Edmonton, near London, from the Literally Gazette, for the same days.]

Brussels.

London.

Brussels.

London.

Brussels.

London.

Brussels.

Lond.

Jan. 1. 34°

33°

Jan.

, 6. 29°

25°

Jan.

, 11. 22°

27°

Jan

.16.11°

28°

2. 39

47

7. 28

30

12.24

28

17.20

25

5. 38

29

8. 29

28

13.25

55

18. 23

19

4.35

32

9. 32

30

14.29

29

19. 25

16'

5. 35

31

10. 30

30

15.30

31

20. 21

15

, Brussels, Jan. 21. 24°; at noon, 20^; and at 10 p.m. 10°.

22. 9°; most bitter, with a high E. wind.

23. 8° J most bitter, with a high E. wind.

There was a fall of snow, 6 in. deep, on the 10th, but none since. Clear
and sunny on the 16th, 2 1st, and 22d; all the other days cloudy, but calm.
— W. S. Brussels, Jan. 20. 1829.

Edmonton, near London, Jan. 4. — A violent hail-^storm ; hailstones of an
irregular shape, 3 and 4 in. in circumference ; 14th, a little snow ; 20th,
snow; 26th, snow; 27th, heavy shower of rain. During the first three
weeks, generally cloudy, and the wind N. and N.E. ; the last week cloudy,
and a heavy shower of rain on the 27th. Wind S.E. and N.E.

SOUTH AMERICA.

The Sun^s Rays reflected from a dark-coloured Sand. — In Captain Basil
Hall's Journal, written on the coasts of Chile, Peru, and Mexico, the fol-
lowing passage occurs : — " On the 26th of May, 1 821, we sailed from Val-
paraiso, and proceeded along the coast of Lima. During the greater part of

Vol. IL — No. 6. a

^S Natural History in London,

this voyage the land was in sight, and we had many opportunities of seeing
not only the Andes, but other interesting features of the country. The sky
was sometimes covered by a low, dark, unbroken cloud, overshadowing the
sea, and resting on the top of the high cliffs which guard the coast; so that
the Andes, and, indeed, the whole country, except the immediate shore,
were then screened from our view. But at some places this lofty range of
cliffs was intersected by deep gullies, called quebradas, connected with wide
valleys, stretching far into the interior. At these openings we were admit-
ted to a view of regions which, being beyond the limits of the cloud I have
described, and therefore exposed to the full blaze of the sun, formed a bril-
liant contrast to the darkness and gloom in which we were involved. As
we sailed past, and looked through these mysterious breaks, it seemed as if
the eye penetrated into another world ; and, had the darkness around us
been more complete, the light beyond would have seemed equally resplend-
ent with that of the full moon, to which every one was disposed to compare
this most curious and interesting appearance. As the sun's rays were not,
in this case, reflected from a bright snowy surface, but from a dark-coloured
sand, we are, perhaps, thus furnished, by analogy, with an answer to the
difficulties sometimes started, with respect to the probable dark nature of
the soil composing the moon's surface." Yours, truly, — G. M. Lynn Regisy
Nov. 17. 1828.

Art. II. Natural History in London,

LiNNEAN Society. — The first Meeting for the present session was held, on
tlie 4th of November, when a paper was read, entitled, a " Description of
a new species of the genus Phalangista from New Holland;'* by Thomas
Bell,Esq. F.R.S. &L.S.

Dec. 2. Read. An Account of a new Species of Pheasant ; by Mr.
Benjamin Leadbeatter, F.L. S. Two living specimens of this splendid bird,
which is originally from the mountains of Cochin-China, were presented by
the King of Ava to Sir Archibald Campbell, and by him to the Countess
Amherst. Her Ladyship succeeded in bringing them both alive to England y
but they unfortunately died soon after their arrival.

Nov. 18. Read. On the Nature and Origin of the Lingulate Rays in
Zinnia, and on a remarkable Multiplication observed in the Parts of Fruc-
tification of that Genus ; by Mr. David Don, Lib. L.S. Notices of several
Land and Fresh-water Shells, new to Great Britain, with occasional Obser-
vations; in a Letter addressed to Lewis Warton Dill wyn, Esq. F.R.S. &L.S.;
by S. G. Jeffreys, Esq.

Dec. 16. Read. Observations on some Species of the Genera Titrao
(grouse) and r/rtyx. Natives of North America ; with Descriptions of four
new Species of the former, and two of the latter Genus ; by Mr. David
Douglas, F.L.S. Specimens of these birds were exhibited to the Meeting,
and some of the grouse were of great beauty, especially one named T'^trao
urophasianus, about the size of the wood-grouse (Tetrao urogallus), which
it may be considered to represent in the new continent.

Jan, 20. Read. Descriptions of new Genera and Species of the Class
Compositae, belonging to the Floras of Peru, Mexico, and Chile ; by Mr.
David Don, Lib. L.S.

Feb. 3. Read. Some Observations on the common Bat of Pennant ;
with an Attempt to prove its Identity with the Pipistrelle of French
Authors ; by the Rev. Leonard Jenyns, M. A. F.L.S.
. Feb. 17. Read. A Paper on the Plants called Compositae; by Mr.'
Pavid Don, Lib. L.S. The Secretary communicated to the Meeting that
the Council had completed the purchase of the collections and library

'Natural Histm-y iri London, 'Si

oF the great Linnaeus, with those of the late President, for ;5000 guineas.
These collections and books will be removed immediately into the house of
the Society in Soho Square. We congratulate the Society and the public
on the acquisition of these treasures to science. Nearly all the mate-
rials which Linnaeus employed, are now in the possession of the British
public.

Geological Society. — The first Meeting for the present session was held
on the 7th of November. — Read. On the Geology of Nice; by H. T,
De la Beche, Esq.

Nov. 2\. Read. On the Geology of Nice, continued. The diluvium
of Nice is peculiar ; it, in general, takes the form of breccia, either diffused
regularly, or occupying clefts : appearing, however, in both situations to
be intimately connected. The secondary rocks of Nice consist of two
great formations ; the upper one composed of siliceous, argillaceous, and
calcareous particles, intimately mixed, but in very variable proportions ;
some of the beds abounding in green grains, which circumstance, together
with the nature of their fossils, induces the author to rank the formation
to which they belong with the green sand of England. Nummulites, how-
ever, which are rarely found in the green sand of this country, are found
plentifully in that of Nice. The strata are very much disturbed and con-
torted ; so that an unguarded observer might often suppose them to be
inferior to rocks on which they are in reality incum.bent.

Dec. 5. and 16. Read. On the Excavation of Valleys, as illustrated
by the Volcanic Rocks of Central France; by Charles Lyell, Esq.
V.P.G.S. F.R.S. &c. and R. L Murchison, Esq. For. Sec. G.S. F.R.S. &c.

The theory long since announced, which ascribes the excavation of val-
leys to the long continued erosion of streams, has been supposed to derive
remarkable support from the appearances of the volcanic tracts in the in-
terior of France ; and the authors referring especially to the works of Ml
de Monlosier, and the illustrations of that district recently published by
Mr. Scrope, conceive that what they had seen themselves in Auvergne and
the Vivarrais, strongly confirm the views of these and preceding writers.

Jan. 2. 1829. Read. A Letter on the Series of Rocks in the United
States ; by G. W. Featherstonhaugh, Esq. F.G.S. The writer, after having
made himself acquainted, by personal observation, with the rocks of Eng-
land, states his opinion that the rocks in North America, which would
appear from Mr. lEaton's Synopsis^ to succeed one another in an order
perfectly irreconcilable with that which has been observed in the British
Islands, do, in reality, follow the same order.

In confirmation of his opinions, the author gives a detailed account of
observations made by himself in the course of an excursion from the city of
Albany to the Hilderberg Mountains, over a plain which extends about
thirty miles from north to south, and sixteen miles from east to west. The
surface of this plain, which is 324 feet above the level of the Hudson
River, consists of sand incumbent upon a very thick deposit of the marl
above noticed, which is found also in various parts of the United States as
far south as Louisiana. Near the Hudson River this marl is incumbent on
transition rocks, but at the Hilderberg Mountains, on carboniferous lime"
istone, containing the fossils usually found in that formation, and imperfect
seams of black chert or flint. This range is remarkable for its fissures and
caves; one of which, more than 1500 feet long, situated in the town of
Bethlehem, is minutely described by the author. Within this cavern is a
pool of water, along which one of the attendants paddled himself in a small
skiff, to the distance of 800 feet, in a course parallel to that pursued by the
author, and separated by a screen of natural pilasters with occasional open-
ings; this pool forms the head of a rivulet about one third of a mile froiri
the entrance of the cave. The author was unsuccessful in his endeavour?
to discover bones within the cavern, though it abounds in diluvial matter^

G 2

^ Natural History i?i London,

which, in some places, presents a section of, at least, seven feet in height.
There is another cave in the same neighbourhood, said to be still more
extensive, which he proposes to explore. No regular search for bones has
yet been made in the caves of the United States. The only fossil bones
hitherto found in any cave in that country, are those of the megalonyx ;
although the bones of the megatherium, elephant, mastodon, ox, and horse
have been discovered in other situations : but so little attention has been
paid to the circumstances under which they occurred, that it is impossible
to decide whether they were lodged in alluvial or diluvial deposits. In the
author's opinion no fossil remains of the hyaena, rhinoceros, hippopotamus,
bear, or tiger, have ever yet been found in the United States.

A Letter respecting some remarkable Fossil Remains found near Cromer
in Norfolk; by Samuel Woodward, Esq. Mr. Woodward notices the
limited extent of the marine formation of eastern Norfolk, and is of opi-
nion that its rejectamenta may point out the boundary of a former sea in
that district.

The marine remains denominated crag are found at Cromer, and west-
ward of that town, at Coltishall and around Norwich. To the eastward of
these situations, instead of marine shells, a layer of ligneous and mammalian
remains is found reposing on the chalk. The author considers that a line
drawn from Cromer, or a little east of it, and passing in a south-east direc-
tion towards Lake Lothing by Lowestoff, will very nearly describe the
course of the antediluvian shore; to the eastward of which, immense
numbers of the fossil remains of the elephant, horse,'deer, &c., mingled with
the trunks, branches, and leaves of trees, have been found even to the dis-
tance of twenty miles out at sea; and on the Knole-sand the tusk of a
mammoth (drawings of which are annexed to the letter) was found in the
year 1826, resembling those recently brought to England from Behring s
Straits.

For more ample details of the Geological Society, see the Philosophical
Magazine and Annals of Philosophy ^ new series. No. 26. Feb.

Zoological Society^ Jan. 1829. — The Museum in Brook Street now con-
tains 600 species of mammalia, 4,000 birds, 1,000 reptiles and fishes, 1,000
testacea and Crustacea, and 30,000 insects. The gardens were opened to
the public in June, and with the museum have been visited by upwards of
.50,000 persons. In the former are 430 living quadrupeds and birds. The
members of the Society exceed 1200; and on the whole it may be stated
to be in a flourishing condition. A bird*s-eye view of the gardens engraved
on wood, and giving a very perfect idea of them, will be found in the
Arcana of Science for 1829, a work which is one of the cheapest and best
of the day.

Commemoration of Ray. — The second centenary of the birth of the
illustrious John Ray, which happened on the 29th of November last, was
celebrated by the lovers of evei*y branch of natural history, by a public
dinner, attended by about 130 of the most distinguished cultivators and

Eatrons of science in and about London, including the officers of the Royal,
linnean. Geological, Horticultural, and Zoological Societies, the Rev. the
Provost of Eton, and several of the Professors of the Universities of Ox-
ford, Cambridge, and London. The chair was taken by Davies Gilbert, Esq.
M.P. the much-respected President of the Royal Society.

After dinner the President proposed, " The memory of Ray," and accom-
panied the toast by an eloquent speech, setting forth his merits. " Men
who had done good service to their country, whether in the field of science
or elsewhere, were entitled to its grateful remembrance ; the display of that
remembrance was calculated to incite others to an honourable struggle for
similar distinction ; and he was sure that when these proceedings should
become known, they would tend greatly to promote the cultivation of the
science of natural history.

Natural History in London, 85

After enumerating the principal works which Ray produced, he observed
" Ray was the first who reduced natural history to a system, and prepared,
the way for those more perfect arrangements which have since had so salu-
tary an influence on its cultivation. It was to his penetrating genius and
indefatigable exertions, that the civilised world was indebted for many most
important discoveries. If he did not himself always arrive at the goal, he
pointed out the road ; and it was to his pursuing the course he had com-
menced, that we owed our present advanced state in many particulars of
natural history. Haller felt how much he owed to Ray, and he termed
him the greatest botanist in the memory of man.

" Of this inestimable author Stillingfleet observes, • that no writer, till his
time, ever advanced all the branches of. natural history so much as that
sagacious, diligent, English observer, whose systematical spirit threw a light
on every thing he undertook, and contributed not a little to those great
and wonderful improvements which have since been introduced.' "

Mr. Bicheno, Secretary to the Linnean Society, pronounced a warm
eulogy on Ray, " whom Cuvier had justly called un MethodistCy and whose
works he had studied, still with fresh advantage, for the last twenty years.
Ray was, indeed, a methodist. He was the first who arranged the grand
outlines of natural history, and enabled every one to become acquainted
with the groups, the grand formations of nature. With the minute parti-
culars of his subject, Ray had not much interfered, but he had originated
that system of arrangement which gave perspicuity to the labours of others,
and had accurately described the characters of nature's grand ope-
rations."

Mr. E. Forster, Vice-President and Treasurer of the Linnean Society,
said, that born and educated in the same county with Ray, he had been
taught, from his infancy, to admire that great man ; and his admiration
soon became veneration from a study of his writings. Nearly forty years
ago he had first visited his tomb, befoi'e it had long undergone a repair at
the expense of a gentleman present (Sir Thomas Gery Cullum). In his
pilgrimages to Ray's tomb, he had felt great delight in seeing also the place
of his birth, the church in which he had been baptised; and in entering
the house in which this good man had lived and died, it was pleasing to
reflect that he was treading the very boards which Ray had trodden, and
that he was looking, perhaps, on trees and plants which Ray had admired.

Dr. Fitton, the President of the Geological Society, and Mr. Greenough,
passed each a high eulogy on the character of Ray, who made many saga-
cious observations on geology, and entertained some opinions much beyond
the state of the subject in his own time.

Mr. Vigors, the Secretary of the Zoological Society, spoke of the high
sense now entertained of Ray as a philosophical zoologist.

On the healths of the Naturalists of Great Britain and Ireland being
drunk, coupled with the name of Mr. Kirby, the Rev. Gentleman said that
he had never before addressed a public assembly of a festive character ;
but he felt it right to take that opportunity of testifying his admiration of
the great and good Ray. He was great as a natural philosopher, and great
also as a moral philosopher. He penetrated the world of science further
than any of his contemporaries, and by his exertions formed a bright con-
stellation of information, whose beams had served as a guide and beacon to
more modern labourers. In entomology, the branch of science to which
he himself was devoted, the naturalist of the present time was, indeed,
deeply indebted to Ray, who had combined the system of Aristotle with
that of Swammerdam, and cleared the way for Linnaeus. Much had
been done to unveil nature, but still much remained to be done; and he
hoped that a course of perseverance would be pursued until all was
accomplished.

G 3

^ Natural History in the English Counties.

The healths of Cuvier and Jussieu, and the Naturalists of Europe, Were
^runk with much approbation.

Dr. Buckland's health, and Prosperity to the University of Oxford,
having been most cordially received, the learned Professor addressed the
meeting at considerable length, bearing testimony to" the merits of Ray,
whom, as an individual, we must ever esteem, love, and venerate, and whose
name the annals of philosophy will never cease to record among the first
founders and benefactors of natural science.

On giving " the University of Cambridge," the Chairman took notice of
the expulsion of Ray from that University, which harsh act he was disposed
to attribute to the persecuting spirit which raged without the walls of that
learned seminary. He could say of many of the present members of Tri-
nity College, that they regret that the violence of the times had compelled
their predecessors to acquiesce in the retirement of Mr. Ray from his Fel-
lowship, for refusing to subscribe a declaration altogether unwarrantable.
Oxford had as much to answer for in regard to her treatment of Mr.
Locke.

The Rev. Professor Henslow returned thanks. He remarked that the
University of Cambridge had, so far as the marble or the canvass could
make amends, endeavoured to atone for the little, or, he should rather say,
the great, injustice which Mr. Ray had sustained. The bust of that great
man was ranged by the side of those of Newton, Boyle, Barrow, Dry den,
and Willughby ; and his portrait was considered to confer honour on the
place in which it was. But Cambridge might, with justice, boast of pos-
sessing a far more powerful proof than those, of the estimation in which it
held the genius and conduct of Ray : his spirit still lived there ; and although
the study of natural history had not yet been brought to that degree of
perfection there which it might be, he hoped the day was not far off when
it would command general attention. Such pursuits he considered the best
correctives of fanaticism and bigotry.

" The Universities of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and London,'^ and the healths
of Baron Humboldt and Dr. Wollaston, having been severally drank, the
Chairman retired amidst the applauses of the Company.

The health of Mr. Children, who suggested the Commemoration, was
then given with hearty approbation, and the company separated, after
having spent a day which they will long remember with delight.

A more full account of this Commemoration will be found in the Philoso-
phical Magazine and Annals of Philosophy, for February, 1829, from which
the above is extracted.

Art. in. Natural History in the E?iglish Counties.

Breeding of Woodcocks in Eiigland. — Sir, The fact that woodcocks
occasionally breed in this country has long been established on undoubted
authority. The occurrence, 1 am inclined to think, may perhaps take place
oftener than is generally supposed. It should be remarked, that the woods,
which are the usual haunts of the species, are comparatively but little dis-
turbed during the breeding season, viz. the end of April, or beginning of
May ; so that these birds may, possibly, sometimes retain quiet possession
of their sylvan domains without attracting our observation. It is highly
probable that the individuals of this species, which are sometimes seen in
the beginning of autumn, may not have migrated from the north at that
early period, but may be such as have remained in this country through the
summer (as is suggested in one of the extracts from the public journals
below). I beg to offer you the following instances of woodcocks breeding

* ISfatural History in the English Counties, 87

in this country, which have come to my knowledge. On the 1 9th of May
last, James Smith, keeper to John Chetwode, of Ansley, Esq., near Nun-
eaton, shot two young woodcocks in a wood called Hore Park, in that
neighbourhood ; and, on the following day, an old bird was shot by the
same person at the same spot. The young birds are described to me as
having been dry and bad when cooked and brought to table, but the old
one was excellent.

John Wigson, woodman to W. Dilke, Esq., informs me that he observed
a woodcock sitting on four eggs in Ryton wood, in the neighbourhood of
Coventry, in the beginning of May, 1827. From some cause or other,
however, the nest was deserted, and some of the eggs destroyed : on break-
ing one that remained, it was found to be nearly ready to hatch. Ryton
wood, I am told, is a very favourite spot with cocks ; and J. Wigson thinks
there was probably a brood at that place this season, from the circumstance
of his having observed a bird there very late in the spring.

One remark presents itself on the above notices; namely, that if the eggs
of woodcocks are about to hatch by the beginning of May, and the young
birds are able to fly by the 1 9th, the old ones must have paired and com-
menced the business of nidification, &c., at least, we may suppose, a month
previously, i. e. by the beginning of April, which is earlier than many in-
dividuals of this species leave this country for northern climates. The idea,
therefore, which I believe is entertained by many sportsmen, that wood-
cocks pair before they quit our island, appears to be well founded.

I have just been informed that woodcocks were shot in the woods of
J. Boultbee, Esq. of Baxterley, which almost adjoin to Hore Park wood,
on the 9th of April last.

The following notices from the public journals are in unison with those
above recorded : —

England. A few weeks ago, woodcocks were still in the preserves of
R. More, Esq., of Linley Hall, in Shropshire. This is not quite a solitary
case this year. A woodcock's nest was lately found in Chicksand woods,
Bedfordshire ; since which time, in the same woods, and within 300 yards
of the same place, another has been discovered ; having, like the other,
four eggs in it. They have all been hatched, and four couple of birds
produced, which are now about the woods. {Coventry Mercury ^ June 1.
1828.)

Scotland. A very beautiful woodcock was shot last week at Banchory by
Major Cruickshank, of Langley Park. This circumstance is looked upon
as prognostic of an early and severe winter, as woodcocks usually do not
make their appearance before the month of October. {Aberdeen Chron.)

Ireland. On the 8th of August, a fine woodcock was shot in Florida
demesne, county of Down. This, we believe, is rather a rare occurrence,
as these birds do not visit us till about November, and emigrate again in
February. As it was seen in the course of the spring, it is supposed to have
remained in the country since last winter. {Belfast Chronicle.) -^YourSy
&c. — W. T. Bree. Allesley Rectory, Sept, 26. 1828.

Middlesex.

An Artesian Well has been bored in the Duke of Northumberland's
grounds, at Syon, to the depth of 535 ft. The first 20 ft. bored through
consisted of loose gravel and sand ; to this succeeded strong blue clay, to
the depth of 410 ft. ; next, 10 ft. of green sand ; then between 30 and 40 ft
of loose chalk ; and, finally, very firm and hard chalk, to the depth of
535 ft., which is said to extend to an unknown depth. A strong spring was
found in the green sand, but it was not powerful enough to rise higher than
30 ft. from the surface. The next spring was found in the solid chalk ; and
the two springs, united, now rise to the height of 5 ft. above the surface, and

G 4

88 Natural History in the English Counties,

the water flows over at the rate of 5 gallons per minute, of a temperature
of 55° Fahrenheit.— W. Brentford, Feb. 9. 1829.

Flycatcher in November. — The first week of this month I observed a
spotted flycatcher in a field near this place ; but it had been apparently
wounded in one leg, as it leaned on one side when perching on some rails.
— B. Sweet. Pomona Place, King*s Road, near Fulham, Nov. 28. 1828.

Suffolk.

Thecla splm. — It may be interesting to many of your readers to hear
that, during the past summer, a new, or at least a very rare, insect (Thecla
.vpini) has been taken in this country. Mr. J. Seaman, of Ipswich, a most
indefatigable and persevering entomologist, captured many specimens of it
during the month of June last. I have a catalogue of some of the rarer
British birds killed in this county within a few years, which I will forward
to you. — J. B. Hoy. Stoke Nayland. iVbv. 22. 1828.

Plants in flower' on 21st December, 1828, near Bungay, Suffolk.—-
GraminecB : Poa. annua. Annual meadow grass. 'Euphorbihcex : iVfercuri-
dlis per^nnis. Perennial Mercury. TkymelecB : Daphne sempervirens, Ever-
green Daphne. Yincece : Finca major. Great periwinkle. LabidtcB : Z/amium
album, White dead-nettle ; L. purpureum, Purple dead-nettle ; Hbrminum
sylv^stre. Wild oculus Christi (541via Ferbenaca). Compositce: *S6nchus
oleraceus, Kitchen-garden sowthistle ; CVepis tectorum. Roof hawk*s beard ;
Taraxacum officinale, Shop dandelion ; Phrygia nigra. Black [knapweed ;
jB^llis perennis. Perennial daisy ; ^ichillea ikfillefolium. Many-leaved yar-
row ; *Senecio laciniatus, Jagged groundsel ; S. vulgaris, Common ground-
sel. LeguminoscB : tTlex europae'us, European furze; Trifolium arv^nse,
Fallow trefoil. Geranidce : (reraniura Robertianum, Robert geranium ;
G. molle. Soft geranium ; G. pusillum. Pygmy geranium. Malvacece :
ilfalva vulgaris, Common mallow. Caryophyllece : Zyychnis vespertina,
Evening lychnis; Stellaria media. Middle-size chickweed. Cruciferee :
Sisymbrium oflficinale, Shop bank-cress ; jLepidium campestre. Champaign
pepperwort; Erysimum cheiranthoides. Wallflower hedge-mustard ; Tlilaspi
cuneatum. Wedge-shaped treacle-mustard. Raniinculacece : j?anunculus
ripens. Creeping crowfoot ; B. acris. Acrid crowfoot. (Named from Gray's
Natural A?'rangement of British Plants.) — D. Slock. Bungay, Dec. 22. 1 828.

Lancashire.

Natural History Society of Preston. — Sir, I have enclosed a copy of the
laws of our Natural History Society, and a catalogue of the books now in
the library. The Society originated with four individuals, has continued to
increase gradually, and there are now about thirty subscribers. Several of
the members feel anxious to form a museum, more particularly as there
is nothing of the kind in the town, and have lately had a meeting to discuss
the means to accomplish it, but have not hitherto come to any fixed
determination. If you, or any of your correspondents, could furnish a few
hints in your Magazine on this subject, and point out how similar establish-
ments have been formed and are conducted in other places, of no greater
magnitude than this town, such hints would prove highly acceptable.

Dr. Harwood's late course of lectures here, on the Mammalia and A^ves,
has contributed to enliven the taste already manifested towards zoological
pursuits. The lectures were uncommonly well attended, and every one
appeared delighted, many expressing sorrow at the shortness of the
course.

If a respectable museum could be established, it would doubtless soon be
enriched with valuable presents, would tend to keep up a spirit of enquiry
into Nature's works, and prove an unfailing source of intellectual gratifi-

Nattiral History in the English Counties. 89

cation and rational amusement. I remain, Sir, yours, &c. — Jos, Kenyon.
Preston, Oct. 4. 1828.

Westmoreland.

Crossbills, as occasional visitants at Ambleside. — For some weeks past a
pretty large flock of crossbills (Loxia curvirostra) have been observed in the
vicinity of Ambleside, Westmoreland. Their favourite haunt is a plantation
of young larches, where they may be seen disporting almost every day,
especially between the hours of eleven and one. The crossbill is a rare
British bird, and may be classed among our occasional visitants, as, during
certain seasons, none make their appearance. They are northern birds,
which breed, or are supposed to breed (for, in truth, their real history is
still rather obscure), in Sweden and Norway. They are never seen here
except during the earlier part of the winter season, or (as in the present
instance) late in autumn. I think they were first observed in the neigh-
bourhood this year during the third week of October, which I consider an
unusually early appearance. I hope it does not betoken a severe winter?
If I happen to detect the period of their final departure, I shall inform you
of it. — J.W. Ambleside, Nov. 20. \S2^.

Cumberland. ,

Arrival of certain Birds of Passage in the Neighbourhood of Carlisle. —
The green sandpiper {Totanus ochropus) was seen in this neighbourhood
on the 21st of July, and the woodcock on the 26th of August, both remark-
ably early. I know not whether you take much interest in the arrival of
the various birds of passage, but perhaps some of your friends may be grati-
fied with the following account of the arrival of the swallow tribe in this
neighbourhood, during the last four years : —

1825. 1826. 1827. 1828.

Sand marten (ifirundo riparia), April 10. .April 10. Aprils. April 4.
House marten (^rundo urbica), - 26. - 27. - 22. - 28.

Swallow (^irundo rustica), - 23. - 16. - 20, - 18.

Swift (Cypselus A^pus), - - 25. ■ - 29. - 29. - 29.

T. C. Heysham. Carlisle, Sept. 29. 1828. . >

[ North Wales. f

Insects taken at Barmouth, North Wales. — The following list of insects
taken at Barmouth, North Wales, and in its vicinity, may not be without
interest to travellers fond of entomology : —

Papilio hjale. Saffron butterfly ; met with under the rock below the
inn in 1826, but not seen since. P. cardui. Painted lady ; found in great
abundance in the same year, but very rarely met with since. P. wrticae.
Small tortoise-shell. P. A'rgus, Common blue. P. Vo, Peacock; abundant.
P. Atalanta, Red admirable; abundant. P. S6me\e, Black-eyed marble.
P. Janira, Meadow brown.

(Sphinx A'tropo5, Death's head hawk-moth ; two fine specimens taken on
the window. Phalae^na Jacobae^a, Cinnabar; behind the inn. Ph. filip^ndulae,
Burnet ; abundant. Ph. phi, Broom. Ph. gu^rcus. Large egger. Ph.
zoegana, abundant ; described by Donovan as rare. Ph. viridana. Small
green oak ; this beautiful but destructive little moth completely strips the
oak copses about Barmouth of their leaves. Ph. vauaria. Gooseberry.
Ph. wrticata. Ph. evonymella. White ermine. Ph. hexadactyla. Many-
feathered. Ph. pinetdla. Pearl veneer ; described by Donovan as rare, but
here not unfrequent. Ph. atralis. Ph. idmhria. Ph. bilineata. Ph.
caja, Great tiger. Ph. dactyla, White-plumed. Ph. pavdnvd. Emperor ;

90, Natural History in Scotland,

only in the caterpillar state. Ph. typocoides, Scarce Gothic. Ph. buc^-
phala, Buff tip. Ph. ram esa, Bramble. Ph. gonostigma. Scarce vapourer.
Ph. cherophyllata, Great chimney-sweeper. Ph. pudibunda. ^Sphinx El-
penor, Elephant hawk.

Chrysomela Biterula; a very rare insect. Curculio /)ini ; rare. Cicin-
dela campestris, Sparkler. Plpula rivosa. Panorpa communis, ^ranea
^adfema.

It is probable that a practised entomologist would gather a rich harvest
in the vicinity of Barmouth ; the insects here mentioned having been
collected by an unscientific person, not much acquainted with their habits
and haunts. — M. A. R. September 26. 1 828;

Art. IV. Natural History in Scotland,

Leaf-cutting Bee. — The editor of the Dumfries Courier, in reference
to a paragraph which appeared, I believe, in the Scotsmauy detailing the
account of a nest of the leaf-cutting bee (-4'pis centuncularis), formed near
Amluch, in Anglesea, cites the case of one in Dumfriesshire, in which the
cells were constructed of birch leaves, obtained, it is conjectured, from Cal-
lender wood. This remark is followed by an interrogation, whether the
circumstance has been noticed before in Scotland ? I may answer the query
by stating, that my personal observation proves it is by no means rare. This
Interesting insect is not limited in its choice to one plant. The leaves of
Macartney's rose, iliespilus canadensis, P'raxinusO''rnus, &c.,are those, among
others, which I have remarked as so singularly scolloped out by its forceps.
The summer before last I observed that it exhibited a singular predilection
for the leaves of my rose acacias, six of which displayed the most singular
configurations, every leaf on every plant being carved and scolloped in an
extraordinary manner, and altogether presenting a spectacle at once interest-
ing and unique. — J. Murray.

Blackcock i^^trao tHrix). — A curious variety of the female of this species
was shot in August last by Sir Sidney Beckwith on the muirs above Beatock
Bridge, in Annandale. The ground colour of the whole bird was a dusky
yellowish white, paler on the under parts, with the dark markings of the
feathers umber brown. When shot, she had a brood of several young with
her. The specimen is now in the collection of Sir William Jardine, Bart.
— W.J. Oct. 25. 1828.

Solan Goose (Sula alba). — A specimen of this bird, in the plumage of
the first year, was killed last week a considerable way up Moffat Water,
Dumfriesshire. It was taken in a marshy pool by a herd-boy, and seemed
much exhausted. There appeared no wound. The distance of the place
where it was caught from the sea is about twenty-five miles. — Id.

Red-breasted Merganser (M^rgus serrator). — Mr. Selby and Sir William
Jardine met with the nest of this species in June last, when on a fishing
excursion upon Loch Awe, in Argyleshire. The nest was found upon a
small wooded island, placed among thick brushwood, under the covert of a
projecting rock, and completely surrounded with nettles, long grasses, and
fern. It was carefully made of moss, plucked from the adjoining rocks,
mixed with the down of the bird ; both in structure and materials resem-
bling that of the eider duck. It contained nine eggs, of a rich reddish
yellow, or fawn colour. The bird was remarkably tame, sitting until nearly
taken with a small hand net. — Id.

Natural Histoi-y in Ireland.

91

Art, V. Natural History in Ireland.

Cork Tree {Qiie'rcus Either) at Samvierstown. — I send you a sketch
{Jig. 20.) of a remarkable cork tree now growing at Sammerstown, the

residence of Daniel Sweeny, Esq., in the vicinity of this city. I have not
been able to ascertain at what date, or by whom, it was planted ; but, from
the size of the elms (some of them 1 2i ft. in circumference) and other
trees growing near it, and probably planted at the same time, I should sup-
pose the cork tree to be several centuries old. That it must have been a
remarkable tree several generations since, is proved by the fact of the pro-

Krietor at that time, when about to let the lands on which the tree stands,
aving introduced a clause, in the lease, by which the tenant incurred a
penalty of 20/. if he cut down or injured the tree. The following are the
dimensions of the trunk and principal branches : — Girth of the trunk at
3 ft. from the ground, 8 ft. lOin. ; height of the trunk before it divides,
9 ft. ; girth of each of the two principal branches, 6 ft. 10 in. ; girth of the
second-rate branches, 5 ft. 4 in. ; horizontal diameter, or spread, of the
head, measuring from the extremities of the branches, 36 ft. ; thickness of
the cork and outer bark on the trunk, 3 in. I am, Sir, yours, &c. — James
Drummond. Cork Botanic Garden, Dec. 9. 1828.

9%

Perennial Calendar,

Art. VI. Perennial Calendar.

We are here enabled to lay before our readers three journals of the
weather and calendars of nature, which, whether considered separately or
comparatively, are full of interest and instruction.

England.

Journal of the Weather kept at Wycombe, Bucks, Lat. 51° 3Y 44'' North ;
Long. 34' 45" West, during the Year 1828, with Monthly Observations.
By James Tatem, Esq., Member of the London Meteorological Society.

Table of Thermometer and Barometer.

Month.

Thermometer.

Barometer.

Mean.

Greatest

Greatest

Greatest

Mean.

Greatest

Greatest

Lowest

variation.

Heat.

Cold.

Variation.

height.

extreme.

January

38-78

15-28

52-50

23-50

29-67

0-78

30-16

28-89

February

38-95

17-31

56-25

23-25

29-54

0-86

30-22

28-68

March -

41-28

21-28 62-25

23

29-65

0-86

30-11

28-79

April
May

44-80

24-44

69-25

25-50

29-49

0-59

30-09

28-92

51-42

21-32

72-75

32-25

29-59

0-45

30-08

29-14

June

56-73

19 26

76

41-25

29-74

0-67

30-07

29-07

July -

58-28

19-28

76

39

29-46

0-35

29-75

29-11

August

56-19

17-80

74

41

29-61

0-50

3005

29-11

September

54-95

19-70

74

35-25

29-69

0-59

30-29

29-15

October

46'95

18-70

65

28-25

29-87

0-82

30-22

29.05

November

42-44

23-44

55-75

19

29-62

0-66

30-06

28-96

December

42-23

18-73

54

23-50

29-70

0-78

30-16

28*92

47-75

29-64

Table of Rain

, Snowj

Fair

Days

, and Wind.

•
' ^ Month.

1!

It

1 =
^1

V-

Rain.

Winds. 1

Ins. Dell.

c4

1

(4

«3

1

^
«)

1

^

Z

1

January

14

15

2

4-67

1

8

3

2

7

6

1

3

February

14

11

4

1-47

3

2

6

3

3

5

3

4

March -

20

10

1

0-77

2

1

8

10

8

2

April
May

10

20

3-50

1

2

2

1

3

1

3

7

17

14

1-92

4

8

3

2

5

5

4

June

18

12

2-68

6

2

3

9

5

5

1

July

15

16

4-55

1

6

8

6

4

2

August

15

16

5-3

4

3

5

2

14

4

2

September

15

15

3-25

5

6

1

5

6

1

6

October

23

8

1-8

3

1

4

1

5

7

6

4

November

18

12

1-28

1

10

3

2

4

6

3

1

December

14

17

2-6

6

5

5

7

7

1

193

166

7

33-83

28

51

32

33

79

63

35

35

Perennial Calendar, 9S

January. An extraordinary quantity of rain fell during the month, up-
wards of three times as much as in January 1827, and very considerably
more than for the eleven last years. The mean temperature was higher
than since 1817, but the mean height of the barometer was above that of
last year, in the corresponding month, notwithstanding the excess of rain.
Snow fell on the 11th and 15th; the whole together about 3 in. in depth.
Thunder heard and lightning seen about two o'clock in the morning of the
18th. The evaporation 0*05625 of an inch.

February. The mean temperature was above that of the last year, and
the maximum higher than observed by the journalist, in the month of
February, for twelve years. The mean height of the barometer lower than
since 1825, in the same month, but the range greater than for some years;
snow fell on four diiferent days, and the whole amounted to 8 in. in depth ;
the quantity of rain and melted snow 1*475 in., of which about f of an
inch was from the latter. A lunar halo, with misty area, seen about ten
o'clock on the 28th. The evaporation 0*03125 of an inch.

March. This month was remarkably dry, and, about the middle, very
warm for the season; the mean temperature above that of last year which
was higher than usual. The mean height of the barometer was also above
that of March last year. The quantity of rain very considerably less than
in any corresponding month since 1822. Some little snow fell on the night
of the 28th, but was soon melted. Thunder heard on the 22d and 23d,
and a rainbow seen, on the fourth, about five P. M. The evaporation
0*14575 of an inch.

A'pr'd. Rain fell on twenty different days, between the 3d and 25th, after
which tlie barometer rose, and the weather became fine ; the quantity of
rain greater than since April 1818, and, as might have been expected, the
temperature and barometer were both low. The mean of the thermometer
lower than for the last four years, while the mean of the barometer was below
that of any year, in the same month, since 1821. An indistinct lunar halo,
with misty area, seen on the 28th about nine P. M, The evaporation
0*25625 of an inch.

May. The range of the thermometer not so great as in May last year,
but the mean temperature was 1*15227 higher. The barometer was also
higher, although below the usual average of May. In the latter part of the
month, there was much dull and heavy weather. On the 27th half an inch
of rain fell, yet the whole quantity was less than in 1827. The maximum
of heat occurred on the 16th, on the evening of which some little lightning
was seen in the north and north-east. The evaporation 06625 of an inch.

June. The mean temperature was above the average of the month, and
considerably higher than in June last year, though not so high as in 1826.
The mean elevation of the barometer partook of the same character. The
quantity of rain more than since 1824. Lightning seen on the 16th and
thunder heard on the following day. The evaporation 0*86875 of an inch.

July. The quantity of rain remarkably great, exceeding that of July in
any one year, since 1825 (on the 9th upwards of 1^ in. fell in the course
of the day) ; the temperature was consequently low, the maximum being
beneath those of the last six years, and the mean lower than since 1825 ; ^he
barometer was also much depressed, the mean lower than since 1822. Thun-
der heard on the 8th, 1 4th, and 26th, and lightning seen on the 5d. The
evaporation only 0*28125 of an inch.

August. The month, like August in last year, was cold, the temperature
being extremely low, the maximum never reaching summer heat and the
range very small ; the barometer was also low, and the quantity of rain
greater than what has fallen at Wycombe, in any one month, for the last
six years ; the wind chiefly from the west and south west. Thunder heard
on the 3d, and thunder heard and lightning seen on the 6th, and also on the

1I4

Perennial Calendm\

lOth, when the thermometer was only one degree above temperate. The
evaporation 0-41875 of an inch.

September. Less rain fell than for the Isat three years in September, the
whole month warmer, the mean being higher than since 1 823. The baro-
meter higher than usual although below the mean, of the corresponding
month, in last year, which was remarkably high. Lunar halones, with
misty areas, seen on the nights of the 20th and 21st. The night of the 28th
was remarkably dark ; and about midnight it blew a heavy gale from the
south-west. The evaporation 0'33125 of an inch.

October. Rain fell on eight days only, and so little has not fallen in this
place, in the month of October, for the last six years, the whole quantity
waa considerably less than half of that which fell in the same month, in
1827. The mean temperature less than since 1823, but the barometer re-
markably high during the month, the mean being much above those for
many years past. The month might be denominated very fine. The evapo-
ration 0*19375 of an inch.

November. So mild, dry, and fine a November has not occurred for
many years. The mean temperature higher than since 1824, The mercury
much above the average of the month, although the mean did not reach
that of last November, but the quantity of rain was less than has been ob-
served by the journalist, during his residence at Wycombe, a period of six
years. The evaporation 0*0875 of an inch.

December. The month was remarkably warm, the maximum being
higher than since 1819, and the mean temperature above that of any one fof
December in the last twelve years ; the barometer has also been very much
elevated, the mean being considerably higher than since 1818, and the
quantity of rain less, by 2Ain., than last year. Thunder heard and light-
ning seen on the 7th about 12 P. M. and an indistinct lunar halo observed*
on the night of the 19th. The evaporation 0*075 of an inch.

SCOTLAND.

Meteorological Table and Calendar of Nature for 1828. Extracted from
the Register kept at Annat Garden, Perthshire. N. Lat. 56° 35^^ ; above
the Level of the Sea 172 feet.

Mean
height of
Barom.

Mean

Temper.

aturc.

Depth of
Rain in
Inches.

No. of
days on
which
Snow or
Rain fell.

No. of
fair days.

Vegetating season,
beginning 20th of
Marchj and end-
ing 20th of Oct.

January

February

March -

April

May - -

June

July - -

August -

September

October

November

December

Average of year

29*68
29*57
29*63
23-53
29-62
29*72
29*50
29-60
29-73
29-79
29-61
29-53

38*2
39-7
44*9
44*3
52-3
58*4
61-1
59*1

56-e

50-5
44*1
44-9

4

2*80

1*05

2*69

2*50

1-50

2*20

2*26

1*38

2*07

3*26

2*55

14
15

8
10
11
10
13
12

8
11
16
14

17
14
23 A

20

20

20

18

19

22

20 '^

14

17

Mean
tempera,
ture dur-
ing that
period.

Depth of
rain fal-
len dur-
ing that
period.

53*9

14.53

29*62

49-5

28*26

142

224

,^ Observations. It is remarkable that the mean temperature of last season,
is within a very small fraction of a degree of the temperature in the ex-

Perennial Calendar, 95

tremely hot and dry season of 1826 : but the mean temperature for 1826,
for the vegetating season, was about 2° higher than in 1828, during the
same period ; the high temperature that prevailed during the winter months
of the last season, will account for the approximation of the annual tem-
perature for both years. The fall of rain in 1826 was only 14 in. the half
of which fell during the vegetating season.

The fall of rain last year was near the ordinary average, and measured
28-26 in., 14i of which fell from the 20th March to the 20th October,
which accounts for the general luxuriance of the crops in this country.

The mercury, in the barometer, was highest on the 29th October, bein^
on that day 50 Fahr., it was lowest on the 2 1st March, being at 28-10. Fahr.,
The warmest day was on June 28; mean heat of that day 67° 5', extreme
heat 77°. The coldest day was on the 12th February; mean temperature
of that day 32^ greatest cold 28°. The wind blew from the north-east,
east, and south-east, 153 days, and from the north-west, west, and south-
west 213 days. The only loud gales of wind occurred on the 16th and
17th January from the east, on the 14th February from the east, on the
9th March from the west, on the 24th and 25th September from the west,
on the 20th and 27th November from the west, and on the 7th December
from the west.

Calendar of Nature for 1828,/or the Carse of Goivrie, Perthshire.

January. Frost prevailed from the commencement of this month till the
17th, though not severe. The Winter Aconite (Eranthis hyemale) ap-
peared above ground on the 19th, and was in flower by the 23d; Snow-
drops were in flower on the 31st.

The robin red-breast sang regularly from the 18th, and the mavis and
blackbird commenced singing on the 28th.

February. The temperature for the first ten days averaged 46° ; a snow
storm prevailed from the 10th to the 28th ; the weather from the 18th was
mild till the end of the month. The common Mezereon (Daphne Mezh-
reon) showed its flowers on the 3d, and on that day the field lark com-
menced singing. Bats were seen flying at Perth on the 5th; partridges began
to pair on the 7th ; magpies began to build their nests on the 10th, which,
on discovering their mistake by a fall of snow, they tore down on the 14th.

The male flowers of the hazel (Corylus ylvellana) were developed by the
16th, the Water Saxifrage (Chrysosplenium oppositifoliura was in flower
by the 27th.

March. In this month there were eleven days of clear sunshine ; towards
the middle of the month the temperature was unusually high. The »S'axl-
fraga oppositifolia, a beautiful little Scottish mountain plant, was in flower
at Annat Garden on the 4th ; rooks began to build on the 6th ; frogs were
heard croaking on the evening of the 8th; and the female blossom of the
hazel appeared on the 9th; gooseberries were in leaf by the Hth; Moor-
park apricots in full flowers on south walls, by the 12th; daffodils and
jonquils by the 17th; marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) by the 20th;
peaches in flower, on south walls, by the 26th ; wild geese beginning to
set off in flocks from the Low Carse.

April. The temperature was as low as 40°, at the beginning of this
month, but rose gradually to a mean of 48° towards the end. The wind
blew from the N. E. till the 10th ; a circumstance not uncommon in the
early part of April, and always accompanied with cold, occasioned, as is
supposed, by the winds blowing over the melting snows in the northern'
parts of Europe. Green gage plums were in flower on walls by the 6th,
apricots on standards by the 8th, sloe tree in flower and the whitethorn^
and larch in leaf by the 10th. Swallows appeared on the 23d, and the
maple tree was in leaf by the 24th.

9S Perennial Calendar:

Mai/. The wind blew from the east for the most part of this montli,
and, with the exception of nine days, the atmosphere was cloudy. The
scarlet strawberry and common broom in flower, and the birch in leaf on
the 1st, the oslin apple was in flower by the 3d. Young rooks had left
their nests, and were branching and shot at by the 4th, when the cuckoo
was first heard. Teuchats (the proper name ?) appeared in marshy grounds
by the 6th, the lilac was in flower on the 12th, and the oak in leaf on the
18th. The walnut came in leaf on the 20th, and the Scotch redstreak
apple, the latest flowerer, on the 24th. The narcissus came in flower on
the 29th. The landrail was heard in the corn-fields on the 14th.

Jime. The atmosphere was clear during the greater part of this month.
The laburnum came in flower by the 4th, the mulberry leaves were fully
expanded by the 5th, the common scarlet strawberry was ripe on the 24th,
a period of 51 days from the appearing of the flowers, mean temperature of
that period 60°. Hay harvest began on the 24th on clover and rye grass
grounds. The gooseberry caterpillar appeared on the 7th, and the apple
caterpillar on the 17th; the last were coiled up in their downy catacombs
by the 24th, and some of their flies were seen by the end of the month.

Jtdy. Warm showers were frequent throughout this month, the at-
mosphere was for the most part cloudy, there being only three days of
brilliant, and eight days of partial sunshine. Wheat came in flower on the
6th ; and it was soon discovered that myriads of small caterpillars, of a
sulphur colour, supposed to be the Tipula /ritici described in Loudm*s
EncyclopcBdia had taken possession of a great part of the ear, and were
devouring the embryo grain : within three weeks from the time they were
discovered, they were transformed into small flies. The wheat is, in conse-
quence, about one half deficient in quantity all over Scotland. Barley,
which was sown on the 1st of May, came in the ear on the 7th, being 68 days.
Mean temperature of that period 55° b\ Z/ychnis chalcedonica in flower
on the 11th. Hare bells (Campanula rotundifolia) in flower on the 13th.
Timothy grass, and the Butomus umbellatus in flower on the 15th, and
the Z/ilium candidum on the 1 8th, pulled ripe juneating apples from an east
wall on the 22d, early varieties of gooseberries ripe by the 23d. The sun-
dew (Drosera rotundifolia) and the grass of parnassus (Parnassia palustris)
were in flower on the 26th on moist moor grounds. The cuckoo ceased
his note on the 30th.

August. Dull hazy weather prevailed till the 20th, and heavy showers
had laid the ripe wheat in the Low Carse, which was partially sprouted.
The (Calluna vulgaris) common heath, which was in full flower by the 11th,
the autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale by the 13th. Wheat harvest
commenced in the Low Carse on the 15th, and was general by the 21st.
Barley that came in the ear on the 7th of last month was cut on the 25th,
a period from the earing of 49 days. Mean temperature of that period
59° 4'.

September. The atmosphere throughout this month was for the most
part hazy. A violent thunder storm occurred on the 9th, wind westerly.
Wheat that had been sown on the morning of the 9th gave a braird on the
17th, a period of eight days. Mean temperature during that period 54° 6\
The harvest was secured on the highest grounds, which form the north bank
of the Carse, by the 22d ; on the evening of that day there appeared an
unusually brilliant Aurora Borealis. Green gage plums were ripe on the
9th, and white beurr^e pears on the 15th, elruge nectarines on the 18th.
Swallows began to congregate on the 24th.

October. The weather throughout the whole of this month was mild
and pleasant; on the 6th and 8th the wind was boisterous from the west;
there were eight days of clear sunshine. Wheat sown on the 8th gave a
braird on the 21st, a period of thirteen days. Mean temperature of that
period 52°. Flocks of wild geese began to arrive from the north on the

Perennial Calendar, 97

16th, and swallows had disappeared. Nothing in the shape of frost occur-
ring, and the soil being tolerably moist, the leaves of forest trees did not
begin to drop till near the end of the month, by which time late varieties
of pears and apples were taken down.

November. A considerable quantity of rain fell in the course of this
month, but the temperature was unusually high for the season. On the
20th a loud gale of wind blew from the west, and slighter gales from the
same quarter occurred on the 24th and 26th. The laurustinuses began to
open some blossoms on the 12th. Wheat that had been sown on the 29th
of last month gave a braird on the 1 7th, a period of nineteen days. Mean
temperature during that period 44°.

December. The characteristics of the v/eather, throughout this month,
were nearly the same as in November, and the temperature fully higher :
for the temperature, fall of rain, &c., for each month, I must beg to refer
to the table extracted from the register kept at this place. The Christmas
rose was in flower by the 20th. The sweet-scented coltsfoot showed
some flowers by the 25th. The thrush, blackbird, and robin redbreast sang
regularly from the middle of the month. The year concluded with a
violent thunder-storm, seldom surpassed in the summer months by loudness,
and never equalled by the vividness and luminosity of the flashes of light-
ning with which it was accompanied. This formed a precursor of a change
of weather, and frost set in with the first hours of the new year. — A. Gorrk,
Annat Gardens. Feb. 11. 1829.

IRELAND.

Exti'acts from a MeieorologicalJournal kept near the town of Kilkenny,
during 1828. Latitude 52° 35', W. longitude 7° 25'; about forty miles,
from the eastern coast, and 500 feet above the level of the sea. The soil
light, deep, and gravelly ; the subsoil a gravelly loam. The thermometer
observations taken at 1 P.M., and hung about four feet from the ground
in the angle connecting a north-east and north-west wall.

March. Maximum degree of heat taken at 1 P. M. in the shade on the
14th, wind south, 61°; minimum at 1 P.M. on the 27th; wind north-
west, 45^; mean heat at 1 P.M., 51°. Days rainy 5, fair 15, hail 1, hoar
frost 2 ; wind east and north-east 3, south 5, west 7, and north 3. Anemones
appeared in blow on the 14th, standard Orleans plum on the 15th, pear
trees on a southern aspect on the 16th, /beris sempervirens on the 27th,
TroUius asiaticus on the 28th, *S'axlfraga crassifolia on the 29th. The total
absence of fro?t during the preceding winter, and mildness of the season,
hitherto, has brought it considerably in advance of its usual stage at this
period.

April. Majcimum degree of heat, taken as before, on the 27th, wind
south-west, 6Q° ; minimum on the 8th, wind north-east, 43° ; mean tempe-
rature at 1 P.M. SS"^ 25^; rain 12 days, hail 2, fair 16; wind east 2 days,
south 2, south-west 4, west 4, north-west 5, north 9, and north-east 4.
Pear trees in blow on the 2d, Sanguinaria canadensis on the 3d, /Vis ger-
manica on the 8th, Pyrus spectabilis on the 17th, ieucojum aestivum on
the -18th. Harsh northerly winds in the latter part of the month, inju-
rious to the early bloom of fruit-trees ; but, on the whole, the prospect is
promising.

May. Maximum of heat in the shade on the 30th, wind south-west,
68°; minimum on the 17 th, wind north, 55°; mean temperature, 58°.
Maximum of radiation from the sun influenced by reflection, the thermo-
meter four feet from the ground, on the 19th, wind east, 71°; mean tem-
perature of sun heat 65° 3' at 1 P.M., exceeding the temperature in the
shade on the 18th. Heat of the earth, at the foot of a southern-aspected
wall 1 foot deep, 57°, 2 feet deep, 55°; 1 foot deep, at the foot of a north^rn^
Vol. II, — No. 6. h

98 Pere7inial Calendar,

aapected wall, 56^, 2 feet deep, 56°. Thunder on the 29th, on a change of
wmd to the north ; rain 15 days, fair 16 ; east wind 9 days, S.E. 4, S. 4,
N. 3, S.W. 3, W. 1, and N.W. 7. Xamium Orvala in flower on the 2d,
apple trees on the 8th, Cratae'gus Oxyacantha on the 11th, guelder rose
on the 13th, Pompadour and Scots roses on the 25th. The weather in
this month moist and chilly; wall-fruit, in general, cut up by north-
westerly winds and frost early in the month, and standard fruit much hurt;
bush-fruit uninjured ; slugs and snails abound in unprecedented numbers,
devouring every thing eatable and unprotected. The season still maintains
the early impulse it received.

June. Maximum heat in the shade at 1 P.M. on the 28th, wind S.W.,
79°; minimum on the 6th, wind N.W., 57** ; medium temperature 67° 5';
maximum of sun's radiation on the 29th, wind E. 86°; mean sun heat 69" ;
excess above heat in the shade about one-thirtieth; thermometer buried at
the foot of a south wall 12 inches deep 56°, 2 feet 55° i foot of a north wall
12 inches deep 5G°, 2 feet 55° ', well water 26 feet deep 52°; rain 12 days,
fair 18, high wind 7 ; wind E. 5 days, S.E. 1, S. 6, S.W. 5, W. 3, N.W. 8,
and N. 2 ; thunder on the 20th, wind shifting from north to south. J?6sa
villosa first in bloom on the Sth, pinks on the 9th, red currants ripe on
the 23d, Keen's seedling strawberry on the 24th, Mayduke cherries on
standards on the 25th, early Antwerp raspberry on the 26th. High north and
harsh north-westerly winds early in this month, along with cold rains for
some days successively, chilled and blighted such of the young fruit as sur-
vived the last, so that, except in favoured spots, the crops are lost ; some of
the coarser and hardier kinds of fruit partially escaped. North-west winds
are those most injurious to the fruit crops of this country, and they occur
generally about this season. The easterly do comparatively but little
injury.

July. Maximum heat in the shade on the 16th, wind in the east, 70°;
minimum on the 26th, wind N.W., 62°; medium temperature 67°; maxi-
mum of sun's radiation on the 12th, wind in the west, 84°; mean heat of
sun's radiation 70° 5'; excess above temperature in the shade only one
twenty-second; well water 55° i thermometer buried 12 inches deep at the
foot of a south wall 62°, 2 feet deep 61°, 3 feet deep 60^°; 12 inches deep
at foot of north wall 60i°, 2 feet deep 59^° , 3 feet deep 59°; thunder on
the 25th, wind shifting from south to north; rain 18 days, heavy from the
20th to the 27th; wind E. 3 days, S.E. 9, S. 6, S.W. 1, W. 2, N.W. 5,
N. 5. Gooseberries ripe on the 10th, Magdalen or St. James's pear on the
31st, Rudbeckia hirta on the 23d, Helianthus multiflorus first in bloom on
the 24th, small fruit abundant. The crops of hay which we commenced
cutting about the 24th of last month are much injured by the heavy rains
at the beginning of this ; much of the corn also laid, the moist weather
having encouraged a thick and luxuriant blade.

August. Maximum heat in the shade on the 29th, wind south-east, 74°;
minimum on the 9th, wind north-west, 60°; medium temperature 66°;
maximum of sun's heat on the 29th, wind south-east, 92°; medium of sun's
heat 71°; excess above shade one-thirteenth. Thermometer at the foot of
a south wall 12 inches deep 60°, 2 feet 60°; north wall 12 inches deep 59%
2 feet 59°. Wet days 19, 6 of thin heavy rain, 12 fair. Wind E. 5 days,
S.E. 3, S. 5, W. 6, S.W. 4, N.W. 7, N.E. l. Eve apple or scarlet Juneating
ripe on the 3d, chisel pear and wheat-cutting on the 1 0th, Orleans plum
on the nth, yellow jack plum on the 17th,Oslin apple on the 18th, yellow
Alberge peach on the 19th, red Magdalen peach and Pourpr^e hative on
the22d,Grosse Blanquette pear on the 25th, Beurr^e Bergamot, and Orange
Bergamot on the 28th; sweet clematis in flower in a western aspect on the
1st, -Erica multiflora on the 3d, v41thae'a frutex on the 19th, Chelone on the
25th ; Cyclamen autumnale on the 27th. This month, for two thirds, was
extremely wet; the latter part cleared up, when the crops seemed in a

Indicatorial Calendar. 99

desperate condition, and, in a great measure, redeemed them. The season
may, nevertheless, be reckoned among our earliest ones, preceding by, at
least, ten days or a fortnight, those of ordinary occurrence ; but, owing to
the want of radiating sun-heat, fruits have not acquired their perfect flavour
or full size this year.

September. Maximum of heat in the shade on the 5th, the wind in the
east, 68°; minimum of the same on the loth, the wind in the north, 6S° \
mean temperature in the shade at 1 P.M. 64° j maximum of sun's radiating
heat on the 2d 84°; mean radiating sun's heat at 1 P.M. 69°; excess of
the sun's heat on the 28th, one-thirteenth; thermometer buried 12 inches
at the foot of a south wall 60°, at 2 feet 60°; 12 inches deep at the foot ;
of a north wall 58°, 2 feet 59'^. Well water 26 feet deep 33-5°. Range
of the barometer from 29*20. to 29-78. Thunder on the 15th, wind shift-
ing from south to north ; heavy rain on the 23d, high wind on the 24th
from the south, and since from the west. The musk rose in blow on the
1st, Clethra arborea on the 4th, Bignonia radicans major on a south aspect
on the 19th, Colchicum autumnale on the 28th; Elruge nectarine ripe on
the 5d, purple fig on the 4th, Kerry pippin on the 1 4th, Marseilles fig on the
18th, aromatic russet apple and Williams's Bonchretien pear on the 19th,
Bourdine peach on the 22d, mulberry on the 23d, Bell's scarlet apple on'
the 25th, dwarf Ischia fig on the 30th, autumn Bergamot pear on the 29th.
The first nine or ten days of this month were valuable for completing the
harvest ; high winds and rain predominated in the latter part. Vegetables
are this year abundant and of good quality ; the fruits which escaped the
late frosts are, in general, stunted and ill-flavoured, though ripening early.
— J. R. Kilkenny.

Art. VII. Indicatorial Calendar,

The two ensuing months are the most interesting to the naturalist of
the whole year. With ethereal mildness come forth vegetable and animal
tribes, which the winter had hidden or banished.

Flora. In the garden and fields the appearance of the early flowers, and
swelling of the pregnant buds, indicate the advancing season, showing the
stage of its advancement, by comparing present appearances with those of
the like kind which happened in bygone years. Every bed or border flower,
every bulb or tuber, are now in motion, rising in gay succession ; while the
mellowed ground is receiving its charge of annual seeds.

Fauna. The birds that live constantly with us are the first of the animal
creation which are actuated by seasonal changes. Many of them are pre-
paring for the business of nidification. The raven and common owl are
usually leaders ; then the rook, jack-daw, and redbreast. Crows, magpies,
and jays are later. Among song-birds, the song-thrush, missel-thrush, and
afterwards the blackbird, are among the early builders ; but all these are
much governed by situation : the inhabitants of a warm, extensive shrub-
bery of evergreens begin their social connections much sooner than those
located in the bleak forest. But our chief seasonal birds are the emigrants.
The first is the chifF-chaff": this httle bird is sometimes heard so early as the
8th of March. Along with it appears the whinchat and stonechat : the
latter is supposed not to leave England entirely, but only shifts from one
part of the island to another. The redstart may be expected about the
8th of April ; the swallow on the 13th ; cuckoo, nightingale, wryneck, black-
cap, willow wren, pettychaps, white-throat, and lesser white-throat, about
the 20th ; the house, sand, and black martens about the 25th ; and the
turtle-dove and flycatcher about the 30th. Mr. Sweet says, that mapy of

H 2 '

100 Queries and Answers.

our migratory birds arrive earlier, and remain about London for some time
before they disperse themselves into the interior of the kingdom ; but do
not commence singing till they have chosen their nestling place.

Insects are daily issuing forth from their hybernacula, or bursting from
their chrysalises. On a frosty morning not an insect is to be seen in the
air; but should this be succeeded by a warm, sunshiny afternoon, the air
swarms with them, a general hum is heard on all sides, and, on the return
of evening, except the night-flying beetles and moths, they are all fled to
repose on the rugged bark of trees, into the sheltering hedge or bush, or
into cavities in the ground. The brimstone-coloured butterfly is one of
the most conspicuous indices of the naturalist; its first appearance is
generally memorandumed.

Weather. In this changeable climate we have very few certain data,
enabling us to foretell what kind of weather may be expected. That what
is to come depends on that which is just past, is one of our old rules of
prognostication, and, in the case of alternations of much rain or drought,
the rule holds good, and so often, that proverbs in conversation, and maxims
in morality, are founded on the circumstance, viz. " long wet, long dry,'*
" after a storm a calm," &c.; but when a past course of weather is of no
decided character, neither very wet nor very dry, the rule is of no value.
Within the next month, however, we shall very probably experience what
is equally dreaded by seamen and travellers in these latitudes, namely, hard
blowing weather between the 18th and 24th of the month. — J. M. Chelsea,

Art. VIII. Queries and Ansxioers.

The sound or call of some kind of Bird (Vol. I. p. 297.). — Your cor-
respondent, J. N., wishes to know what birds he heard on his way, by moon-
light, through part of Galloway. From the description of the sound, I
should be inclined to think it was the snipe, as the noise they make is
exactly like that of a goat, and they are called, in the north, heather-
bleaters. The note of the whimbrel is a plaintive whistle, or occasionally
a low tremulous shake. — William Henri/ Hill. Newland, Gloucestershire,
Sept. 10.

The Pied Flycatcher. — Sir, I was pleased to see in your Magazine of
Natural History (Vol.1, p. 331.), an account of the Pied Flycatcher, by J.
Blackwall, Esq., who states it to be abundant in the woods near UUswater,
and in that vicinity. 1 have never seen this species alive myself; and as I
am desirous of obtaining living specimens of all the migratory British
warblers, I should also be much pleased with a male bird of this species, or
a nest of young ones, which would arrive quite safe if sent by a careful
person, and fed on the road with a little raw lean meat, moistened with
water. Should Mr. Blackwall, or any of your correspondents, be kind
enough to procure and send me a bird or nest, I should feel much obliged,
and should be happy to return the favour in any way in my power. Per-
haps a nest of eggs that have not been sat on would be more convenient :
those could be packed tight in a little box in wool, and would arrive safe ;
and I could get them hatched and bred up by some nearly related bird in.
this neighbourhood.

The Dartford Warbler and Grasshopper Warbler I also wish for par-
ticularly, to add to my collection. The former is said to be plentiful on
the commons in Devonshire and Cornwall, and is sometimes, but rarely,
found on those in the neighbourhood of London ; but I have never yet
been fortunate enough to obtain one.

Queries and Aris^ers* 101

The grasshopper warbler, more generally known by the name of grass-
hopper lark, is plentiful in several counties, but scarce about London ; and
I would willingly remunerate any person that would procure and send me
a living male bird, or nest, of either or both. I have now eleven species of
the interesting migratory warblers, all in good health, and several of them
in full song; four handsome male blackcaps, a wheatear, and whinchat, that
sing nearly all day long ; the redstart, and larger and lesser whitethroats,
also sing occasically, but are not yet in full song: the greater part of
them, if the weather is mild, will be in full song about Christmas. I am.
Sir, yours truly, — R. Sweet. Pomona PlacCy King^s Roadj near Fidham,
Nov.28. 1828.

A dark-looking Water Bird. — Sir, Very early one morning, in Septem-
ber, 1826, as a friend and myself were paddling about in a small boat in the
harbour of Fowey, Cornwall, we spied a dark-looking bird on the water at
the mouth of a *' pill" or creek. We contrived to get within shot, and
my friend fired and shot it dead. On taking it into the boat, I was much
delighted at finding that I had got a strange bird. My companion was
certain that he had killed a tame duck belonging to a neighbouring miller.
I, however, carried it home, and forthwith made a sketch of it, and pur-
posed measuring and examining it more minutely. A cat, however, fore-
stalled me, and having borne it away to her own museum, I was obliged to
rest contented with the rough drawing. Enclosed is a copy of my original
figure (^g. 21.}, which is so far accurate as probably to enable some of the

readers of your excellent Magazine to inform me what the bird is, it being
a novelty to me. From the long body, roundness of the tail, and situation
of the nostrils (in the middle of the bill), it might be placed in the genus
M6rgus ; while, from the form of the bill and leg, it seems to belong to
the ^'nas. The bill, it will be observed, is remarkably large, and the fore-
head slopes more gradually to it than is usually the case in the duck tribe.
This bird was about the size of the wigeon (^^nas Penelope), and, I should
imagine, had not arrived to its perfect plumage, by the uncertain form of
the white spots on the cheek. I am, Sir, yours, &c. — J. L — s» Liskeard
Vicarage, Cornwall, Dec. 10. 1828.

A Crow, which I saw last Sunday on Barham Downs, had the wings, back,
and belly of a slate colour, the wings tipped with black, and the head of a
glossy jet black. Pray, Sir, was it a distinct species, or only a variety ? —
P. H. Kingston Rectory, near Canterbury, Nov. 22. 1828.

A Swallow in November. — On Sunday last, Nov. 23., I saw a swallow
fly over our garden, as strong and apparently in as good health as at mid-
summer. The day was very fine, and the flies were plentiful ; but how did
it subsist during the severe frosty days that were past ? — -B. Sweet. Po-
mona Place ^ KingU Road, near Fulhayyi, Nov^ 28. 1828.

H 3

102 Series and Aiisweis.

Silver Fish. — Sir, will some of your correspondents inform me, through
the medium of your Magazine, whether there are any such fish as silver fish,
and from what part of the world they are brought into this country ? I re-
member seeing, a year or two ago, in the pond in the botanical garden,
Liverpool, both golden, and (as I then understood) silver fish, in full vigour
apparently ; but I am induced to make the present enquiry, from having
recently heard that there are no such things as silver fish really; and that
what are generally known by that name are only the golden ones grown old,
and having thus lost their colour. Do not gold fish come from China ?
[Yes.] — W. A. a R., Bee. 8.

A variety of the Moor Buzzard, {fig. 22.) — Sir, I send you a variety of the
Moor Buzzard, which I shot in
Marsh Gibbon Field, near Bices-
ter, on Nov. 12. 1 am not certain
that my name is right (see Latham
quoted by Bewick) ; but as none
of these birds are very common,
I thought it might not be unac-
ceptable to you. I observed it
late in the afternoon take its sta-
tion, in its usual heavy listless
manner, on an old ash tree, which
had a good command of the
moor, where there were abun-
dance of snipes, but not liking
the sound of my gun, it went olF.
The next morning, near the same
spot, it arose from a thick sedge, -^t
and being at a considerable dis- ^
tance, I hoped I had shot a bit-
tern, being a much more likely
place for that bird than a bird
of prey. I have remarked, that
whenever a place is frequented by snipes, there is almost sure to be one or
two buzzards in the neighbourhood, although it is probable that they sel-
dom succeed in taking any other than birds which have been shot in the
body, and escaped from the sportsman apparently unhurt. — H. Bicester,
Nov. 1828.

We thank our correspondent ; the bird has been stuffed by Mr. Lead-
beater, the eminent artist in this way, employed by the Linnean Society,
and is placed in the museum of Messrs. Sowerby, No. 2. Mead Place, Lam-
beth. Mr. Leadbeater and Mr. Sowerby consider it to be the Moor Buz-
zard (Falco aeruginosus, Linn.) a variety wanting the light spot on the
crown of the head. — Cond.

The Animal that inhabits the Nautilus. — Sir, I would wish to be informed,
through the medium ofyourvaluable Magazine, as to the nature of theanimal
that inhabits the iVautilus, and the use it makes of the chambers ; and, if
Conchilla*s History of the Trochus and iVautilus in your Magazine (Vol. L
p. 24.) be not fabulous, the means the Trochus uses to propel itself to ren-
der it such a powerful enemy to the iVautilus, the former not seeming to
me to be so well adapted for locomotion as the latter. — A Young Con-
chologist. Sept. 18. 1828.;

Mpa batdva, the U^nio batava of Lam. — I would be glad to know if there
be a specific distinction between this and the U'nio pictorum. Is the dis-
tinction sufficient to make it more than a variety ? I have received from
various parts of Europe the batava, rostrata, and ^'nas, and should conclude,
from the specimens received, notwithstanding Lamarck and other distin-
guished conchologists have described them as different, that they are not in-
titlecl so to be considered. No conchologist of this country would, if found
within our rivers, consider them any thing more than mere varieties. Many

Queries and Answers. 103

of the species from the Ohio have half a dozen varieties more distinct. —
J.L. FhiladelpUa, August 16. 1828.

Winter Quarters of Frogs. — Can you, or any of your correspondents, in-
form me what become of frogs during the winter : whether they remain
dormant, or whether they die ; if the latter, how the race is preserved ?
In crossing meadows, late in the autumn, which are liable to floods, I
have frequently observed lumps of a jelly-hke substance lying on the
ground, of a yellowish colour, sen^i-transparent, and about as much on a
spot as would fill a small tea-cup. For some time I was quite at a loss to
what to attribute the cause of it, till at length, upon a closer inspection of
one of them, I discovered in it the remains of the head and feet of a frog.
Am I right in concluding, from this circumstance, that these substances are
the bodies of frogs, which have been decomposed by the approach of win-
ter ? Yours, &c. — J. B. Jan. 21. 1829.

Shower of Frogs. — " As two gentlemen were sitting conversing on a
causeway pillar near Bushmills, they were very much surprised by an unu-
sually heavy shower of frogs, half formed, falling in all directions j some of
which are preserved in spirits of wine, and are now exhibited to the curious
by the two resident apothecaries in Bushmills." {Belfast Chron.) Can there
be any truth in this strange assertion ? When a boy, I remember having
heard of young frogs being found on the top of a church steeple. — G. M.
Li/nn Regis, Nov. n. 1828.

When at Rouen, in September last, we were assured by an English fa-
mily resident there, that during a very heavy thunder shower, accompanied
by violent wind, and almost midnight darkness, an innumerable multitude of
young frogs fell on and around the house. The roof, the window-sills, and
the gravel walks were covered with them. They were very small, but per-
fectly formed, ail dead, and the next day being excessively hot, they were
dried up to so many points or pills, about the size of the heads of pins.
The most obvious way of accounting for this phenomenon is by supposing
the water and frogs of some adjoining ponds to have been taken up by the
wind in a sort of whirl or tornado. — Cond.

A Tick which moved on a diseased Part of itself. — Some days ago, I ex-
tracted a tick from a dog, and flung it into a finger-glass of water. After
floating for some minutes, the abdomen seemed to detach itself from the
rest of the body, and the insect to move upon this discarded part of itself,
as a man walking on a raft. The abdomen of the tick had been very
much distended, and wore the appearance of one of those small leathern
bottles in which oil-colours are sold to artists, only considerably less in size.
I shall be much obliged to any of your correspondents who would favour
me with an explanation of this fact, and to yourself for noticing it. I beg
to remain yours, &c, — C JB. London, Nov. 3. 1828.

A Curious Worm. — Sir, Perhaps some of your correspondents can ac-
quaint me with the name of a small worm, which I found in my garden in
the early part of the summer, and which 1 will attempt to describe. Its
length is exactly 5 in. 2 lines, and it is about as thick as a hog's bristle, ta-
pering to a point at each end ; its colour was, I think, when alive, something
of a reddish brown, except about two lines at each end, which were nearly
white. I observed it throwing two-thirds of its body into the air in a very
curious manner, with a motion resembling that of the antennae of some large
insect. I suppose it to be a species of the Gordiu^, but have always con-
sidered the Gordii as water insects, and although this creature seemed to
enjoy twisting itself among the herbage, which was at the time teeming with
the effects of a long soaking rain, yet my garden is distant from any pond,
and enclosed with walls. An examination in a microscope only showed
some hundreds of rings, of which the whole body is composed, and enabled
me to discover no perceptible difference between the two ends, nor indeed
organs of any kind. Upon putting it carefully into the palm of my hand,

H 4

104

Queries and Answei'S.

the heat seemed to distress it exceedingly ; it curled itself up into a dozen
knots, and was dead in less than a minute. As my best book is Pen-
nant, I shall be obliged to you for any information respecting this very cu-
rious insect. — W. W. Wandsiuorlh, Nov. 2. 1828.

A Nidus on a Rush.— The enclosed drawing (Jig. 23.), represents a nidus
in my possession attached to a rush ; the nidus in
the drawing and in the figure being exactly of its na-
tural size. I discovered it whilst botanising in the
early part of the summer, and so closely does it re-
semble a flower, that I mistook it for one, even after
it was in my hand. It is perfectly white, and of ma-
nufacture the most finished. The lower end i:> quite
flat, with edges as sharp in proportion as those of
the crown of a hat, which I consider a great pecu-
liarity, as I cannot recollect any insect manufacture
of a web-like material, whether nidus of spider, or
cocoon of caterpillar, except such as are round or/ A.
oval, and certainly none with sharp edges such as I
describe. As I found two of them, I cut one open,
and found about a dozen eggs sticking to the base at
A, but not occupying one-tenth of the interior.

This large unoccupied space suggests the idea, that
it is intended for a sort of nursery for the young when
first hatched, and the wonderful instinctive economy
of the insect may, I think, easily be imagined. As
the rush on which it was fixed was growing in water,
the parent insect must have been an inhabitant of the
water or its surface. Feeling the period of incuba-
tion drawing near," instinct, wonderful instinct, in-
forms it, that the element in which it lives and moves
and has its being is not the* proper situation for its
eggs to be deposited. It ascends to the top of some
aquatic plant, forms its very elegant nidus in which
it deposits its eggs, and, having hermetically secured
every partof it, leaves the rest to the influence of the
sun, which, in a few weeks, animates the dormant prin-
ciple of life, and a living creature bursts from each
egg. The young are probably not strong enough, at l\li\ 111

first, to endure the water, and unable to bear any in-
clemency of weather; but their first infancy is passed
in a dry and comfortable chamber, inclosed in which they may alike defy
the wind and rain, and when they have acquired sufficient strength, they
have only to eat their way through the walls of their nursery, and, crawling
down the rush, commit themselves to the water.

This I conceive to be the economy of the insect, of whatever genus it
may be, but any information respecting it will be very acceptable. It is still
in my possession, as perfect as when first gathered. Every one who sees it
admires it ; but I have not yet met with any one who ever saw such a thing
before, and as I have only seen two in my life (both of which were close
together), I take them to be rather uncommon. (Id.)

Aphis on Endive and Lettuce. — Perhaps some of your correspondents
would give me some information on the following subject : — Having
planted out some endive in the garden, which at first appeared to thrive
well, I was surprised to find, after a short period, that the plants drooped
and died. On removing them, I found the root surrounded by a host of
aphides, attended by a quantity of red ants. These aphides were of various
sizes, from the size of a small pin's head to that of the sixteenth part of an
inch. 1 should be glad to know whether this species of aphides is peculiar

Queries and Answers. 105

to the endive and lettuce; also if all the aphis tribe produce honey dew j
and, if not, do the ants prey on the bodies of these insects ? I observed the
ants very busy attacking the aphis behind, and running from one to another.
— William Henri/ Hill. Newland^ Gloucestershire , Sept. 10. 1828.

Tipula tritici. — From the destructive effects of this fly in 1827 the wheat
crop in East Lothian was ahnost entirely annihilated. This season, though
its ravages have been less severe in that quarter, yet it has more generally
infested the wheat crop throughout the whole of Scotland. You have given
a very accurate figure of it in your Magazine of Natural History, Vol. I,
p. 227. ; ;but it would be exceedingly interesting to many of your readers if
you or any of your correspondents would, in a future Number^ give some
particulars of the natural history of this destructive insect, and mention if
any method has been tried, or can be adopted, to subdue it. — J. Ferme,
Haddington^ Dec. 1828.

Procelluria Ledch'n. — Some correspondent would, perhaps, favour you
with an account of the Procellaria Leach«. At present but three of the
genus are British, viz. the Procellaria glacialis, or Fulmar; the Procellaria
pelagica, or Stormy Petrel, commonly known to sailors as Mother Carey's
Chickens ; and Procellaria Puffinusy or Shearwater. — Id.

Putting Bees into Mourning — Sir, In your Magazine of Natural His-
tory (Vol. 1. p. 93.), Mr. D. Stock wishes to know if the custom of putting
bees into mourning is practised in other parts of England. Happening to
mention the circumstance to a person who has been used to bees all his
lifetime, and who is a native of Kent, I was informed that it is the custom
in some parts of that county, to tap at each hive, upon the death of any
member of the family where bees are kept, otherwise the bees all die, or do
not thrive with the family afterwards. — Andrew Mathews. Alfred House,
Turnham Green, Sept. 18. 1828.

LathrcB^a squamai'ia. — Sir, I beg to offer to your correspondent Mr.
Smith, of Sandgate (Vol. I. p. 407.), the best description I can supply, from
recollection, of the Lathrae'a squamaria found in this neighbourhood : —

Flowering branches frequently more than double the size stated in the
English Flora, rising 10, 12, or even 14 in. above the surface, bearing from
thirty to forty flowers, disposed in three distinct yet perfectly unilateral
rows ; smooth, shining, tinged with bluish purple, and having a few flower-
less bracteae below, but gradually becoming hairy upwards ; thickest about
the middle.. BractecB (called leaves in Eng. Flor.) broader than their
length, sitting, smooth, shining, and rather fleshy ; one at the base of each
petiole, and certainly of a different structure from the true subterranean
leaves. Petioles and calyx hairy ; though these and the stem are repre-
sented smooth in t. 50. of Eng. Bot. In the English Flora, the calyx is
described as having the hue and texture of the leaves (qu. bracteae ?) ;
whereas, it is soft and thin, not at all succulent. Flowers of a dullish pink
purple ; the segments of the upper lip of the corolla much longer than the
calyx, collapsed together, enveloping the stamens and the greater part of
the style, though the stigma projects beyond them. Capsules succulent.

I have confined myself to those points in which I think our plant differs
from the description in Eng. Flo., and from the figure in Eng. Bot., not hav-
ing Hudson's Flor. Aug. to refer to. Though, at this period of the year, I am
obliged to trust to memory, I flatter myself I shall be found correct ; for,
being dissatisfied with Sowerby's figure, I made a drawing from nature, in
April last, which has fixed its image on my mind ; but having since given it
to a scientific friend, I am still without reference. I may add, that a com-
parison of the figure in Eng. Bot., and of t. 1 60. of Curtis's British Ento-
mology, the plates of which, for fidelity of outline and richness of colouring,
are beyond all praise, strongly supports your correspondent's doubts.

It is somewhat singular that, though the Lathras'a has been long suspected
to be parasitical, no botanist has yet told us how it is attached to the roots

106 Queries and Answers.

of its parent tree. The elegant and lamented author of the invaluable
English Flortty with characteristic diffidence, says, " the real root is, I be-
lieve, fibrous and parasitical ; " and the profound philosophic botanist to
whom we are indebted for the Prodromus Florce Nov. Hol.y &c. &c., and
whose extensive knowledge of vegetable physiology first suggested the true
nature of the gigantic Raffl^sm, confessed to me, not many months since,
that he had recently endeavoured to discover the mode of growth of the
Lathrea, without success. Allow me, then, to state, that after having been
frequently baffled in my attempt, I was fortunate enough, during the last
season, to ascertain this hidden fact. I also detected some peculiarities in
its organisation and economy, which throw considerable light on the func-
tions of this singular and interesting plant ; but before giving them to the
public through another channel, I wish to confirm them, by further investi-
gation, the ensuing spring. In the mean time, I would feel much gratified
to see, in your next Number, any observations which Mr. Smith or any
other correspondent may have made, bearing upon this more important part
of the subject. — J. E. Bowman. The Court, near Wrexham, Nov. 18. 1828.

Smell of neiv-mown Hay. — Sir, In your Magazine of Natural History
(Vol. I. p. 381.), I observed an article on the " Cause of the smell in new-
mown Hay," in which the writer there seems inclined to believe that the
fi'agrance in new-mown hay arises from the sweet-scented vernal grass (An-
thoxdnthum odoratum"). I have made, on a small scale, several species of
grasses, separately, into hay, with a view to satisfy myself on the subject ;
and I found the hay made from them all, more or less, partake of fragrance.
Might not the scent arise from the fermentation of saccharine matter con-
tained, more or less, in grasses in general, and also from the manner in which
the hay is got up ? I remain, Sir, yours, &c. — Humphrey Gibbs, London,
Dec. 1828.

Skeleton Plants. — Will any of your correspondents favour me, by com-
municating, through your pages, the process necessary for divesting the
leaves and capsules of plants of their soft parenchymatous matter, leaving
only the blanched and reticulated vessels, which so clearly displays their
interior structure or framework, and presents so beautiful a picture of vege-
table anatomy ? The ingenious Mr. Crow, of Kensington, has brought this
art to the highest pitch of perfection ; and I am inclined to think it is
effected by some simple means. — J. E. B. Wrexham, Feb. 4. 1829.

Durability of Seeds. — Permit me to ask you for a reference to any work
or works in which the durability and indestructible qualities of seeds are
treated of at length ? — Charles Greaves. Devonport, Nov. 24. 1828.

Marine Vegetables. — Will you call the attention of botanists to marine
vegetables, with a special view of ascertaining if there are not many
plants fit for eating, which would be serviceable to our seamen on distant
shores ? Has not Dr. Maculloch printed a paper on this subject ? — Id.

Coal Fossils from Clifton, near Manchester. — Sir, I send you a sketch
(^g. 24.) of a fossil cane or reed, which I got out of the little mine coal in

24

the township of Clifton, near Manchester, at the depth of 8 1 yards. It is
about 2i in. broad, pressed flat on the under side, but raised in the middle
on the upper side. I also send you a sketch of two other vegetable fossils

Queries and Answers.

107

(Jig. 25. and/g. 26.), from the same mine. Fig. 25. has the appearance of

a kind of rush laid side 25

by side, and extends to

about 5 ft. in length, and

about 2 ft. in width : it

generally is about an inch

in depth, and contains

three layers, both sides

being similarly marked.

Fig. 26. is simply marked

upon a thin seam of coal,

for if the coal is taken

from off the metal, no

part of the impression

remains. The fossils

(Jigs. 25. and 26.) are

composed of metal, being

a kind of blue shale, and _ ^ _

were both covered with a thin seam of coal. Can you inform me to what

order and genus they belong, and also what is the best work published on

fossils, with plates? — JB. St. Hele?i's, Jan. 19. 1829.

The article on the Progress of Geology (Vol. I. p. 442.) adverted, in
chronological order, to the most distinguished and valuable publications
which have illustrated this science and its different departments. To this
series we refer our correspondent. As an introduction to the knowledge
of fossil organised bodies generally, B. will find Mr. Parkinson's Intro-
duction, or outlines of oryctology, highly useful ; and it is further recom-
mended by its cheapness. It is well deserving a conspicuous place in the
library of the geologist. The fossil Testacea are best illustrated in Mr.
Sowerby*s splendid and costly Mineral Conchology. Artis*s Antediluvian
Phi/tologt/ deserves also to be consulted. That branch of the science
which relates to fossil botany has been, perhaps, the least cultivated
in this country. Both of Mr. Parkinson's works contain some valuable
illustrations. One volume, indeed, of the Organic Remains of a Former
World is exclusively devoted to the consideration of its vegetable relics.
Martin's Petrifactions of Derbyshire may be consulted by B. to advantage.
Messrs. Coneybeare and Phillips have contributed some valuable pages on
this obscure subject in their Outlines. Count Sternberg's magnificent book
is of the highest authority in this department. The Histoire des Vegeta'ux
Fossiles of Adolph. Brongniart, of which two numbers are published,
promises to be the first work on the subject.

108 Queries and Afiawcrs,

There is evidently a'great general analogy between the fossil Flora of the
English and the Continental coal-fields ; but the comparison of these
plants has scarcely been pursued with the attention necessary to the com-
plete establishment of their identity, although very interesting collections
are by no means rare in this country.

In the absence of a work especially devoted to the elucidation of this
branch of natural history in England, our collectors have not unfrequently
experienced difficulties in referring the fossil plants to their respective
genera. Some mention has been made of an intention to supply this
deficiency; and it is conceived that the Flora of our carbonaceous formations
will furnish an abundant supply of new and interesting productions, and,
by a comparison with the existing vegetation, will further illustrate the
phenomena of heat and climate in the former world. As an instance of
the necessity for such a work, might be mentioned the fact, of a collection
of coal plants having been sent from this country into Germany by an
eminent naturalist, for the sole purpose of being identified, named, and
returned.

Figs. 25. 26., referred to in B.'s communication, are common, probably, to
all coal districts, and appear not only in the argillaceous and bituminous
shales, but in the superincumbent and inferior sandstones.

Fig. 24. is probably one of those arundinaceous plants with fluted and
jointed stems, known by the name of Calamites, and probably the Calamites
dubius of Artis : they commonly appear in a flattened form, particularly
in the shales, and are often distorted when the casts are filled with argilla-
ceous iron ore.

Fig. 25. is somewhat obscure, but most probably Euphorbites vulgaris of
Artis.

Fig. 26. is a Phitolithus (Aphyllum asperum of Artis).
! The appearance of the same species, and even of parts of the same plants,
of this class, varies according to the circumstance of their presenting either
epidermal, cortical, or ligneous impressions and surfaces ; each representing
the epidermis, the bark, and the wood j and hence these have been properly
styled Protean fossils. — R. C. T.

Optical Phenomenon. — Sir, On Sunday, the 11th of November, 1827,
about two o'clock, my attention was called to the singular circumstance of
the passengers, walking on the north side of the High Street of this town,
having two shadows, which were well defined, and nearly equally strong.
They were projected partly on the pavement and partly on the front of
the houses, and formed an angle of about twenty degrees, the heads being
nearly 3 ft. asunder. Wishing to ascertain whether the double shadow
was visible to the person by whom it was formed, I passed through that
part of the street, and found that only one was apparent ; but, upon re-
treating into the middle of the roadway, two shadows were seen as before.
This optical phenomenon I am induced to attribute to refraction, occasioned
by the state of the atmosphere. About an hour before, rain had fallen, the
air was filled with watery particles, and the surface of the street was wet,
which would naturally cause a strong exhalation under a brilliant sun,
which was the case at the time, and formed a bank of mist, on which the
images might be represented. I offer this hypothesis with great diffidence,
and should be happy to learn the opinion of yourself, or of some of your
scientific readers, on the subject, through the medium of your Magazine.
During the eclipse of the sun, on the 29th of November, 1826, 1 noticed
that two shadows were formed. This was the first time I observed it ; but
similar appearances have occurred twice during the last month. — Mupha-
tamet. Wi/combe^ December 8. 1823.

Scriptural Geology. — Sir, Having lately read a book entitled Scriptural
Geology^ purporting to be written in answer to M. Cuvier's Theory of the
Earth and Dr. Buckland's Reliqui<B ZHluviance, I much wish to get other

Queries and Answers.

109

opinions than my own as to its merits, and would therefore consider it a
great favour if you would inform me whether it has been reviewed in any
of the periodicals. If not, some one of your correspondents may, perhaps,
at your suggestion, be inclined to notice it in your Magazine.

I trouble you with this communication, also, from the fears I entertain
of the mischief which the book is likely to produce among those who are
ignorant of the theory of geology, and the evidence on which it is founded,
if it be suffered to remain unanswered, and the narrow-minded sentiments
therein, in my opinion, displayed, unpointed out. — An Admirer of Buck-
land.

The book is certainly, with some unlearned readers, a little calculated to
create the impressions your correspondent speaks of,* but I question if such
people read the Magazine of Natural History, or any works of science or
philosophy. It is wasting words and time to combat with ignorance and
prejudice. — R. C. T.

A Fossil Shell from a Qjaarry in Radnorshire. — Sir, The fossil from which
I copied the drawing I have sent {fig. 27.) was found in a quarry on the
estate of D. Thomas, Esq., Wellfield House, Radnorshire, where I believe

they abound. As I am but a novice in the study of natural history, and
cannot inform you in what stone it is embedded, I have endeavoured to
represent it as near the colour as possible. To me it is rare, never having
seen a similar specimen before ; and I should therefore feel obliged if you
would inform me, in your next Number, what it is. The copy is the exact
size of the impression. I am. Sir, &c. — J. A, H. Kingston^ Herefordshire,
Sept. 29.

The above figure represents a fine specimen of Trilobites (A-'saphus)
Debuchw A. Brongniart {Hist. Nat. des Crust. Foss. 20. tab. 2. f. 2. Par-
kinsouy iii. pi. 17. f. 13.) The stone it occurs in is either transition slate or
limestone. — J. D. C. S.

I

110 Retrospective Criticism.

Art. IX. Retrospective Criticism,

Errata.— In Vol. I. p. 242., line 25., should not the word two be three?
No ; the three species enumerated are by |some considered only two.

Cond. r • • o

In p. 362. there is no reference made to figure 169. 6 ; what is it .'' — It
is Salpiglossis plcta.

In p. 375. for 32 read 52.

In p. 37 5. for Prov. xxx. 25. read Prov. xxx. ^8.

In p. 383., line 43, should not the word Wernerian be Huttonian ?
[J. R. says no.] — G. M. Lynn Regis, Nov. 17. 1828.

Errors in printing the List of the Birds of Passage in the Neighbourhood
'^of Carlisle, (Vol. I. p. 290.) : —

Line 2, for 1808 read 1828.

3, for Pjpsetus read Cypselus.
9, for gaisila read grisola.
10, for vendutie read ffinanthe.

— T. C. Hey sham. Carlisle, Sept. 29. \S^S,

Skeleton for Perennial Calendar. — Sir, Pyrus japouica is a bad plant to
select, for it shows some blossom more or less in every month of the year ;
and every observer, delighted to vaunt the praises of his own situation,
will be sure to report it in bloom in every one of the winter months. One
in the neighbourhood of Bristol now (November 28th) has a hundred blos-
soms.— P,T. Bristol, Nov. 28.

Piciis Minor. — I observe one of your correspondents notes the Picus
minor, " very rare;*^ and another regards the individual in his possession
as " the only authentic British specimen ;" whereas, in the course of last
year, I enriched my own collection of British birds by the addition oi three
selected specimens, all shot at Wynnstay ; and two others passed through
my hands, obtained from Llanymynech. Had it been my desire, their
number might easily have been extended, I will not say how far. — B. D.
Wrexham, Nov. 17. 1828.

Perennial Calendar, — Observations drawn from bulbous flowers which
are planted at various seasons, and make their appearances accordingly,
tell but little ; nor are we much the wiser from those of annuals, for the
same reason. — J.R. Kilkenny.

List of Rare Plants and Insects. — Sir, I hope I may be allowed to remark,
without giving offence, that some of the articles occasionally enumerated
by your correspondents in their lists of rare plants and insects are hardly
worth recording as such, or rather have no pretensions whatever to be
considered in that light, being, on the contraiy, of every-day occurrence in
most parts of the country. Thus e. g. in Mr. Babington's " list of the rare
plants and insects found in the neighbourhood of Bath," (p. 392.) the fol-
lowing, among many other common plants, are mentioned, viz. Campa-
nula rotundifolia, (Solanum Dulcamara, ^lisma Plantago, Epilobium hir-
sutum, (Xxalis Acetosella, iychnis dioica, iS'pirae^a Ulmaria, i\^uphar lutea,
Anemone nemorosa, O'rchis morio, and maculata, Tortula muralis, and
Bry\xm arg^nteum : and of insects, the following, viz. Dyticus marginalis,
Nepa cinerea, Panorpa communis, P6ntia wapi ? rapae ? and chariclea, Py-
gaeVa Buc^phala, and A'rctia caja. Surely the above rank among our
more common, not our rarer, plants and insects ; and if subjects of no
greater degree of rarity are worth selecting for particular notice, why not
increase the lists an hundred-fold ? Observe, I do not object to complete
catalogues of the plants and insects to be found in any district; so far from
it, indeed, such local Floras and Faunas would in my judgment be highly

Retrospective Criticism. Ill

useful and interesting. I am merely urging that articles like the above are
not even bordering upon rarities. The introduction of such a list into your
Magazine, as that at p. .392., proposed as a dainty bill of fare to the natu-
ralist, reminds me of an anecdote of Johnson, who, being invited to a
dinner, afterwards grumbled at the fare, when some one (perhaps his friend
Boswell) taking him up, said, " Now, Doctor, after all, was it not a very
good dinner ?" " Why yes. Sir," replied Johnson ; " but it was not a
dinner to ask a man to.'^ — JB. Coventry^ Nov. 9. 1828.

Jemiings's Ornithology. — There are a few points to which I desire to
reply in the notice of my Ornithologia, in the Magazine of Natural History.
(Vol.1, p. 541.)

First, I wish to observe, that " the chief of my knowledge of the natural
history of birds has been obtained by a long residence in Somersetshire, at
Huntspile, of which place I am a native;" that the observations which I
have made on the song thrush (Turdus musicus), are particularly ap-
plicable to facts with which I have there become acquainted. I have
stated also, that " we must not be in haste to condemn what we have not
ourselves witnessed:" throughout my work I have, I hope, been con-
stantly impressed with this sentiment. Now, although I am not prepared
to deny that, sometimes, and in some places, the nest of the song thrush
might be plastered within with cow-dung^ yet I do strongly suspect that no
clay enters, even as a cement, into the composition of the plaster, and I
am led to this conclusion chiefly by the lightness of the nest. The black-
bird's nest (Turdus ikf erula) is, I am well aware, plastered with clay^ over
which is laid dry grass or some such material ; and it is, in consequence of
having clay in its composition, much heavier than the thrush's nest. That
I have never seen a nest of the thrush in Somersetshire, lined with cow-
dung, I think, I may confidently assert. The lining of the thrush's nest,
there at least, I have always found of a very light buff colour ; and that it
consists chiefly of rotten ivood I am equally well assured, as pieces of
this material, and those sometimes tolerably large, are frequently apparent
in it.

As to the singing of the thrush while sitting on the eggs, I admit that it
might, possibly, be a solitary fact, although I think otherwise ; but it is one
of which, however, I can entertain no doubt, as it was heard not only by
myself, but by other branches of my family, the sweetness of the song
having excited our particular attention ; and what makes the fact still
more memorable is, that the nest was a short distance from my father's
house, and we afterwards took the young, one of which we raised and kept
for some years in a cage, where it sang delightfully. In regard to the
cuckoo's not being a climbing bird, which your Reviewer in a note decidedly
affirms (an aflirmation without any evidence, to which one scarcely knows
how to reply), I can only say that, as few, if any, persons have seen that
singular bird climbing trees for its food, we can only reason from the few
facts which we possess concerning it. It is, we know, furnished with
scansorial feet, and I have never seen it collect its food on the ground ;
indeed, except in its flight, have rarely seen it any where else but on treeSj
not often, if ever on bushes or near the ground. The cuckoo kept in a
cage, as mentioned in Ornitholdgia, page 142, did occasionally pick up its
food, but this it always did while it was on the perch ; if an earthworm
happened to fall from its beak, it never descended to the bottom of the
cage to pick it up. I think it therefore quite fair to conclude, that it does
climb about the trees which it frequents, and possibly obtains its food from
them. Mr. Yarrell, than whom, perhaps, a more accurate and intelligent
observer never existed, has disseq^ed many cuckoos, and he says, that
the stomach is similar in its structure to the woodpecker's, and therefore
fitted for the digestion of animal food only; that the contents of the
stomach invariably indicate the presence of such food, namely, the larvce of

112 Hetrosjpeciwe Criticism*

some insects. Surely these facts warrant us in placing this bird among the
scansors. The public papers informed us last summer of some one near
Worthing having been fortunate enough to preserve a cuckoo through the
winter; if this notice should meet the eye of the possessor of the bird,
a communication of any facts concerning it through this Magazine will be
greatly esteemed.*

The Reviewer mistakes in supposing that I might be led away by any
authority whatever, independently of facts. I incline to think, that 5cfew/?;?c
naturalists, those I mean who think more of terms than of facts^ will be
rather disposed to find fault with me for an opposite line of conduct,
for placing terms in the back, and facts in the foreground ; of setting too
little value upon systems of any kind : but while I frankly admit, that I
think our system-builders have pushed, in many instances, their generalis-
ation too far, it behoved me, nevertheless, as a faithful natural historian,
to lay before the reader Ornithology in science, and in fact as it is,
rather than what I could wish it to be. As to the introduction of the
terms cuculid, scansor^ and a few others, everyone will, I hope, perceive
that this has been done to show how the scientific terms may be anglicised
and used ; and sure I am, that, if they cannot be anglicised, the introduction
of them, and the multiplication of new terms in a learned language, how
much soever they may please the pedant, must very materially obstruct the
progress of science. Learned terms may, and perhaps, always will please a
few ; but to the generality of persons their introduction will be disapproved,
and their acquisition will be felt and deemed a wearisome pursuit. Things
and facts, not words, are now, and, in the acquisition of all knowledge and
science, ought ever to have been, the order of the day.

The Reviewer wonders, seeing I am acquainted with Wilsor^s American
Ornithology, that I am disposed to echo the opinion that birds of song are
scarce in the Western World. I am not aware that I have, in any part of
my work, stated such an opinion. I have said, " It is, perhaps, true that
the birds of warm climates do not equal those of the temperate ones in the
sweetness and richness of their notes ;" and I have also said, that " From
the abundance of many of the Picae tribe, such as Parrots, and some others
of harsh note, it is probable that their sounds in the tropical woods often
overpower and confound the more soft and sweet modulations of the war-
bler tribes ; and hence the opinion has obtained credit, that the tropical
regions are deficient in birds of song." But how this can be interpreted
into the opinion given, to me, I really cannot divine : when, moreover, I
reflect that Wilson must have been most conversant with the birds of the
temperate climates of the United States, how what I have said can be
applied to the birds which he has described does, indeed, surprise me.

To write a book that should please every body, would not only be hope-
less, but impossible j that various opinions should be entertained concern-

* I have just been informed by a gentleman of my acquaintance, that some
years since he knew of a cuckoo having been kept in a cage, after being
hatched in this country, till the beginning of February in the next year ;
it was kept, of course, in a warm room, and fed chiefly on raw flesh j but,
by omitting, one frosty night, to keep the room warm, it died.

The following is the notice alluded to above : —

A person named Moore, residing at Goring near Worthing, has in his
possession a cuckoo which was taken from the nest last year, and has been
kept in a healthy state in a cage since that period. During the present
season, ** it has poured forth its well-known call, and is a rare, and perhaps
solitary instance of a cuckoo surviving in this country after the usual
period at which these birds migrate, which is seldom later than August."
— Sussex Advertiser. J^forning Herald, June 12. 1828.

Retrospective Criticism. 113

ing Ornithologia is what I ought naturally to expect. The value of such a
work cannot immediately be known ; but I feel assured, that the more it is
examined, the more will its statements be found to correspond with actual
facts in natural history. I shall neviMtheless feel grateful to every one
who will take the trouble to look into it ; and should he find any error
in it, none will be more ready to acknowledge and to correct it than
myself.

Aware of the necessity of being careful in a selection of facts in natural
history, I am persuaded that no one can accuse me justly of hastily reject-
ing or of heedlessly adopting whatever may be presented to my notice ;
but as the evidence of my own senses is to me the best of all evidence, I
have, as it became me to do, laid no inconsiderable stress upon that in the
composition of my work, and hence, sometimes, my observations are very
different from those made by persons who have preceded me in the same
path. — James Jennings. London^ Nov. 13. 1828.

Birds foi'saking their Nests. — Sir, in the Magazine of Natural History,
(Vol. I. p. ^96), 1 see another criticism about birds forsaking their nests. I
will now try to set your correspondents right, by my own frequent ob-
servations. The redbreast, wren, blackbird, song-thrush, missel-thrush, and,
I believe, almost every other bird, will forsake their first nest for the season,
if frightened out of it once or twice, and will immediately begin to build
another ; but they will not forsake their nest while laying, handle the eggs
as much as you please, or change them one for the other; or even if you take
one out every day, the same hen will still return and lay in the empty nest.
I have often tried all those sorts of experiments. As for a bird forsaking a
nest through touching the eggs, I do not believe any such thing; it is the
fright in driving them out that makes them forsake, and they never return
to it at all : whenever they do return at all, they do not forsake. A red-
breast will sit on any egg substituted for its own, even a blackbird or
thrush's, and will breed up the young ones ; a hedge-sparrow will do the
same, and most probably any soft-billed bird. Later in the season, after a
bird has made one or two nests, it will not forsake its nest when sitting, drive
it out as often as you please ; some will even suffer themselves to be taken
out and put back again without leaving the nest. As for Mr. Anderson's
nightingales, 1 saw the redbreast sitting on the eggs, and also saw the young
nightingales after they had left the nest, and saw the redbreasts feeding
them. They continued about the garden till the autumn. I have no doubt
but nightingales might be made to frequent any place, where there was a
good cover of underwood for them, and plenty of insects, if hatched under
any of the tribe to which they are most nearly related. I think a redstart
would prove the best parent. I am. Sir, &c. — R. Sweet. Pomona Place,
King^s Road, near Fulham, Nov. 28. 1828.

Birds singing while sitting on their eggs. — In the review of Mr. Jennings's
Ornithologiay your reviewer seems disposed to doubt the fact of birds sing-
ing while sitting on their nest. I certainly have never heard a thrush
sing when sitting, perhaps, for want of attending to it, but have very fre-
quently heard and seen the male blackcap sing while sitting on the eggs,
and have found its nest by it more than once ; the male of this species sits
nearly as much as the female. — Id.

Food of the Lapiving. — ^Your Magazine (Vol. 1. p. 496.) contains an inter-
esting communication from M. respecting the food of the Lapiving, in
which, from an inspection of the gizzard, &c., when opened, he reasonably
questioned the truth of the commonly received opinion of their feeding
upon slugs. Should there still remain any doubt upon this point, perhaps
the following observation, which I had an opportunity of making a year or
two ago, may be the means of totally removing it. My garden being much
Vol. II. — No. 6. i

lU

Retrospective Criticism.

infested with slugs, aiW liaving heard that lapwings were frequently em-
ployed for the purpose of destroying them, I obtained several young ones
from the neighbouring meadows where they bred, and, considering them
too young to provide for themselves, placed them in a chicken pen, in
order to feed them myself. The only thing they appeared to relish was
the common earthworm, which they took from the hand, and swallowed
greedily : but upon offering them slugs, they would not touch them. This
surprised me much, and in order to satisfy myself on this point, I gave them
one unexpectedly after a worm, which, directly they touched, they invariably
dropped, and shook their heads violently several times, as if even the taste
of it had greatly offended them. This I repeated frequently, but never
could prevail upon them to eat one either of the black or small white slug.
It never occurred to me to try beetles, but even the worms (or it might be
the confinement) did not seem to agree with them, as they gradually sick-
ened and died ; and having but one left, I turned it out into the garden, as
the only chance of saving its life, where it immediately provided for itself,
and lived till the winter, when, as is usually the case with all pets, it met
with an untimely death, by falling a victim to a cat. -^ I am. Sir, yours, &c.
J. B. Jan. 21. 1829.

Engravings of Bird^. — I think it would be as well if your engraver, when-
ever he has occasion 28
to delineate any of
the British birds, were
to copy Bewick's fi-
gures. If he had
done so, he never
could have made out
such an unnatural fi-
gure of the water-rail
(Vol.1, p. 289.), which
is a perfect disgrace
to the work. Several
of the falcons, which
are delineated in the
aame number, are also
very indifferently exe-
cuted; the hen har-
rier, in particular,
is totally unlike any
hawk that ever was
seen in Great Britain
or Ireland. — J. G.
C. Ballitbref County
KUdarCjDec. 4. 1828.

Our correspond-
ent, we regret to be
obliged to confess, is
perfectly right. We
were told the same
thing in Paris, but
hope to avoid such
imperfections in future. — Cond.

Pentacrinus europcB^us and the Star Fish. — Sir, Amongst the list of new
publications in the Magazine of Natural History (Vol.1, p. 62.) is the title
of a memoir, I lately published, on Pentacrinus (pente five, from the pent-
angular stem of the genus, and krinon lily ; lily-like) europae'us (fig. 28.),
and which requires to be emended, for from the words " star fishy"* which

Retrospective Criticism,

115

you have added to my
title-page, it must ap-
pear to the generality
of naturalistSjas merely
adding a new species
of that familiar tribe to
our stock of know-
ledge. By a reference
to the memoir itself,
you will perceive this
error, which I do not
complain of individu-
ally, but on account
pf the injury done to
the advancement of
science, by thus repre-
senting a discovery of
the very first import-
ance as the accession
of a new species ofj
listerias, star- fish. {Jig.
29.)

The animal, which forms the subject of my memoir, although related to
the Jsterias by analogy, belongs to what must now be considered a very
distinct tribe ^ distinguished, amongst other characters, by being provided
with two openings to the alimentary canal^ that which is central being ana-
logous to the mouth {fig. 28. a.), and the lateral one to the anus (6), of
the /Spatangi and other ^Echini (sea urchins) : this tribe had been already
designated by the term Crinoidea (lily-like), by Mr. Millar, in his valuable
monograph on these curious and interesting animals, which, with the ex-
ception of Marsupites {marsupium, a purse) and Comatula {coma, a tuft),
are all provided with a long stem, by means of which they have been per-
manently attached to the rocks at the bottom of the ocean. I say have
been, because the greater part of those known to naturalists are fossils,
mostly identified with the beds of limestone in which they are found.

Until the fortunate discovery of the species described in my memoir,
naturalists were absolutely ignorant of the real nature of these animals,
and, consequently, extremely divided as to the situation they should occupy
in their systems, so much so as even to be in doubt whether they really
belonged to the animal kingdom. I flatter myself, therefore, that I have
set at rest all disputes upon the subject, and have, at the same time,
pointed out so much of their natural history as to prevent the otherwise un-
avoidable multiplication of species and even of genera. My memoir goes
further, and confirms the statement of Mr. Adams {Lin. Trans, vol. v. p. lo.)
on ^steria pectinata, as to Comatula possessing a similar construction
of the alimentary canal ; a fact which lay dormant and unnoticed by natu-
ralists until it again fell under my observation, which I find by my journal
to be dated June 2. 1823. It appears to have been again noticed by Mr.
Gray, and published in the Annals of Philosophy for November 1826.,
p. 392., in an article on the digestive organs of the Comatula ; that gentle-
man was also the first to throw out a conjecture that the Crinoidea were
probably constructed upon the same plan. — J. V. Thompson, F. L. S.
Cork, Aug. 10. 1828.

Derivation of the name John Doree. — I take the liberty of suggesting
another derivation than that given in your First Number, p. 89. for the John
Dory or Doree. You there state that it is called Doree, as a corruption " from
adoree, worshipped ; or probably from doree, gilt, in allusion to its splendid
colour," &c. &c. It is universally styled " II janitore," or the gate-keeper,

I 2 «

116 Retrospective Criticism.

by the fishermen of the Adriatic, from the tradition of its being the fish of
St. Peter. It seems to me that the corruption of the above term is Hkely
to have caused its present appelhition of Jean Dord or John Dory. I am.
Sir, &c. — S. Bowdich, Jan. 1829.

The A'nodon ruglmis of Swainson (Vol. I. p. 96.) is the Anodonta mar-
ginata of Say. The latter described a specimen not full-grown, while
Swainson's was an old one. You will remember Swainson expresses some
surprise that it should have escaped Mr. Say's notice ! ! It is by no means
uncommon in our rivers. — J. L. Philadelphia, August 16. 1828.

Mr. Murray's Paper on the Aerial Spider. — Sir, The strong disinclin-
ation I feel to enter into discussions of a controversial character would, in
all probability, have prevented me from noticing Mr. Murray's remarks
upon my paper on the spiders which produce gossamer, had they been made
in that spirit of fairness and candour which one gentleman is entitled to
expect from another ; the unhandsome manner, however, in which this
writer has conducted his attack (for he has endeavoured to misrepresent
my views), renders it imperative upon me to offer a few observations in reply.

After stating that my opinions relative to the ascent of spiders into the
atmosphere do not possess much force, Mr. Murray proceeds thus : — "It
does not appear that this author had seen an account of my experimental
researches on the ascent of the little aeronaut ; otherwise, he might have
hesitated in committing himself to the Linnean Society, in the view he has
endeavoured to sustain, but which, however, I believe, is not new.

" M. Gay Lussac having found that soap-bubbles would not ascend in a
room, though their ascent is rapid in the open air, unhesitatingly ascribes
their ascent to warm currents emanating from the surface of the ground ;
rooted in this opinion, Mr. Blackwall concludes that the flight of the spider
originates in a similar cause."

Now, in supposing that I had not seen h^s essay previously to submitting
my own to the Linnean Society, Mr. Murray is completely mistaken. The
truth is, I had read it with attention ; but the perusal did not convince me
that there existed the least necessity for retracting or even modifying a
single opinion I have advanced. The term " committing,*' which Mr. Mur-
ray has employed in the passage cited above, to say the least of it, is un-
courteous towards myself, and disrespectful towards the learned body
alluded to, of which he is a member. With regard to the charge of want
of originality, and of having bori'owed my ideas from M. Gay Lussac, I may
observe, that I was totally unacquainted with the experiments of that dis-
tinguished chemist upon soap-bubbles, and his mode of accounting for their
ascent in the open air, prior to the publication of Mr. Murray's paper. The
principle upon which I explain the ascent of the spiders which produce gos-
samer, I am well aware, has long been familiar to men of science. I make no
pretensions whatever to the discovery of any new principle ; but if the ap-
plication of one already known, to the solution of an interesting and diffi-
cult problem in natural history, which, for more than a century, has exer-
cised the ingenuity of speculative zoologists, entitle me to the claim of
originality, I shall not withdraw it because Mr. Murray is pleased to insi-
nuate that my view of the subject does not possess any novelty.

In direct opposition to the opinion I ha,ve advanced, Mr. Murray main-
tains that spiders have the power of propelling their lines, without any
assistance from currents of air. " The aeronautic spider," he asserts, " can
propel its threads both horizontally and vertically, and at all relative angles,
m motionless air, and in an atmosphere agitated by winds ; nay more, the
aerial traveller can even dart its thread, to use a nautical phrase, in the
* wind's eye ;' " and, further, he remarks that " these interesting aeronauts
sometimes rise with the rapidity of an arrow in the zenith of the observer;
at other times, they are seen to float parallel with the plane of the horizon ;
andj again, at variously inclined angles. Sometimes the ascent is extremely

Retrospective Criticism* 117

slow. An ascending current of warm air, it is conceivable, might effect a
vertical movement ; but how it could push the insect along in the horizon-
tal plane, is an enigma of more difficult solution."

The observations and experiments which have induced me to entertain
the belief that currents of air are absolutely indispensable to the propulsion
of those lines by means of which spiders accomplish their aerial journeys,
and effect their transit from one distant object to another, are amply de-
tailed in the Transactions of the Linnean Society/, vol. xv. part ii. ; so that
persons interested in the investigation have an opportunity of forming their
own judgment respecting them. 1 am not aware that any objection has
been, or can be, urged against my experiments. To myself they appear per-
fectly conclusive; and I feel thoroughly convinced, that whoever may re-
peat them with sufficient care, will be satisfied that the results obtained
admit of no other explanation than that which I have given.

For two years past I have been extending my observations, and multiply-
ing and diversifying my experiments. The inferences deduced from them
entirely corroborate my former opinions, and I might here bring them for-
ward in their support; but as it is my intention to lay them before the
public in a more complete form than I am at present prepared to do, I
shall resist the temptation ; nevertheless, I may state that my recent re-
searches clearly establish the fact that spiders, when placed upon an upright
twig whose base is immersed in water, although they make every effort in
their power to effect an escape, are utterly incapable of darting out a line,
even through a space of two inches, without the agency of air in motion ;
but that, when gently blown upon with the breath, most species emit their
lines without difficulty.

The various directions in which spiders move through the atmosphere
(sometimes in planes parallel to that of the horizon, at others in lines more
or less inclined to that plane), Mr. Murray conceives there would be some
difficulty in accounting for upon the principle of an ascending current of
warm air. This opinion there is no disputing; but I do not perceive what
it has to do with my theory of the ascent of these animals more than with
Mr. IMurray's electrical hypothesis. Unquestionably, a horizontal direction
may be given by a current of air moving in that plane ; a vertical one, by
the ascent of air highly rarefied ; and directions, intermediate between these
two, will generally be regulated by the laws of compound forces. When
the horizontal and vertical currents are equal in force, the line of direction
will describe an angle of 45° nearly with the plane of the horizon ; but
when their forces are unequal, the angle formed with that plane will be
greater or less according as one current or the other predominates.

Mr. Murray, after professing not to understand my meaning in what I
say about the electricity of the atmosphere, proceeds to express his convic-
tion that the atmosphere " is seldom or never in a neutral state with
respect to electricity," as though he would induce a belief that I have
attempted to support the opposite doctrine, whereas I have not so much as
hinted at it. I have merely affirmed that spiders do not select those
periods for making an ascent when ** the electricity of the atmosphere is
remarkable for its intensity." The language in which this fact is conveyed
will not, I trust, be found deficient in perspicuity by the generality of
readers ; notwithstanding, if I knew how to render myself more intelligible
to Mr. Murray's comprehension, I should be happy to do so.

From the many hundreds of experiments which Mr. Murray informs us
he has made, the following is selected as decisive of the question upon
which we are at issue : — "I caught," says this author, " one of these
aeronautic spiders a few days ago ; the folding glass doors of the library-
room leading into the garden were open, and the insect being conveniently
arranged, it darted forth, from within the room, a lengthened thread dia-
gonally upwards, and thus effected its ascent ; a fact at complete antipodes

118 Retrospective Criticism,^

with Mr. Blackwall's opinion." Here, observe, not the least notice is
taken of the temperature of the external air and the air within the room,
neither does it appear that any means were resorted to for the purpose of
ascertaining whether there existed an outward as well as an inward current
of air ; yet this, let it be remembered, is a specimen of the mode of inves-
tigation pursued by one who is solicitous to impress us with the idea that
he has not " ventured beyond the pale of sound and sober reasoning, in
the true spirit of inductive science."

Were I disposed to retaliate, I might now proceed to a critical examina-
tion of Mr, Murray's electrical hypothesis, but recrimination I shall avoid.
My object is to defend myself from an unprovoked and illiberal attack,
being sensible that the fallacy of all other doctrines must be made manifest
by the establishment of my own.

In concluding, I may remark that if Mr. Murray had favoured us with a
few more of his numerous experiments, instead of indulging in fanciful
conjectures, he would have acted in stricter accordance with the spirit of
that philosophy by which he professes to have regulated his enquiries.
I am. Sir, &c. — JoJin Blachwall. Crumpsall Hall, Dec, 4. 1828.

The Mallow of Horace. — Sir, I would speak under correction, but it
appears to me that the elegant authoress of An Introductory View of the
Linruean System of Plants, in the last Number of your interesting Maga-
zine, has not been fortunate in the selection of an example, to show that
we are unable to identify many plants known to the ancients. She says ;
** The Mallow, so important as an esculent vegetable, and mentioned as
such by Horace, and in the Old Testament, is now unknown. Most pro-
bably we have the plant, but are unable positively to identify it." — We
may not be able positively to identify it ; nor, from the imperfect knowledge
of botany possessed by the early writers, can we positively identify more
than a very few of the plants they have described : but, to say the least of
it, in the case before us there is as much reason to suppose that the Malva
of Horace is the same as the Mallow with us, as there is that it should be
any other plant.

Miss Kent calls it an important esculent vegetable. But I think, that,
neither by Horace, who mentions^it u[)on two occasions *, nor by any other
of the ancients, is it described as 2Ln important esculent vegetable. It was
certainly used in the preparation of their food, but then it was in the same
manner as we still use certain herbs — as salutary with made dishes. Ho-
jface's description of the plant in this respect exactly corresponds with the
qualities possessed by the genus ilfalva with us, at least with the natural
order -Malvaceae, one genus of which, the ^Ithae'a officinalis, or Marsh Mal-
low, is still used in our Materia Medica as an emollient. I am happy to
find that the late eminent botanist, Sir J. E. Smith, does not seem to have
entertained any doubt of the identity of the ancient Mklva with our own :
speaking of Linnaeus's natural order, Columniferae, which is analogous to
Jussieu's il/alvaceae, he says,t ** This whole^order contains no disagreeable
or hurtful plant, nor are they esculent. None are foetid, but some agreeably
fragrant. Many of the flowers are beautiful. Their quality is generally
mucilaginous, particularly ^Ithae^i, ilfalva, and Jlcea. The ancients made
considerable use of mallows in their food j but these plants are now out of
use in that respect."

In the Old Testament mention is made of the Mallows only once % ; and
then not as if it were an important esculent vegetable.

* Epodon. od. 2. ver. 51. — et Od. lib. 1. od. 31. ver. 16.
t Supplement to Encyclopaedia Britannica, vol. ii. p. 406.
j Job, chap. XXX. ver. 4.

Retrospective Criticism. li^

The patriarch Job is describing the former miserable lives of those who, in
his affliction, had become his deriders ; he says of them, " They cut up mal-
lows by the bushes," &c. That is, such had been the wickedness of their
lives, that they had been driven from society to dwell in caves of the earth,
and were obliged to subsist upon roots and herbs, which were scarcely fitted
to sustain life. That such is the meaning of the passage, appears from the
marginal reference to Luke, chap.xv. v. 16., " And he would fain have filled
his belly with the husks that the swine did eat." I am not, however, igno-
i*ant, that it has been doubted by many excellent commentators, whether
the Hebrew word in the above passage from Job be rightly translated by
our word Mallow : still 1 can see no reason why it should not be so. If
there be, I should be very glad to be informed of it. The original word,
according to Parkhurst, signifies " an herb of a brackish or saltish taste."
Now I would enquire whether some of this extensive order of plants will
not answer the above description. You, Sir, will know whether any of the
Mallows grow in Arabia, and if so, whether they may not be impregnated
with saline particles. It may here be observed, that the Hebrew word is
very similar in sound to the Latin word Malva, which we translate Mallow.

What I have written is, I must confess, but little more than mere con-
jecture ; and I shall be glad if any one of your numerous correspondents
will strengthen my opinions. It is very important that the correctness of
our venerable translation of the Bible should be called in question as sel-
dom as possible, and certainly never unnecessarily so. The tendency to this
evil has always been much too great : long ago, Bochart endeavoured to
prove that the whale which swallowed up Jonah was a shark.* Dr. Adam
Clarke has shown us that the serpent which tempted Eve was an ape ; and
many other fanciful opinions might be cited, which have been supported
with more learning, I fear, than judgment.

To Miss Kent, I am sure, every reader of your Magazine, as well as my-
self, must feel obliged for the useful and interesting matter she has fur-
nished us with. And if, on one point (which does not in the least call in
question her knowledge of the subject before her), I have ventured to dif-
fer, she will, I hope, excuse me, when I assure her it is more with the wish
of gaining information, than of expressing any confidence in my own opinion.
I am. Sir, yours, &c. — G. M. Lynn Regis, Sept. 29. 1828.

Rhodhla millegrhna (Vol. I. p. 437.) should be Radiola millegrana : it is
a very different genus. — R. S.

The New Holland Anonaceous Plant (Vol. I. p. 438.) is proved by Mr.
Brown, in the Appendix to Captain Tuckey's Voyage, not to belong to
AnonacecB, and is therefore left out of Decandolle's Pr6dromu&: it is a
species of Cargilh'a. — R. S.

■>■ Geology of Palestine. — Sir, In your valuable Magazine of Natural His-
tory (Vol. I. p. 390.) I observe a notice of a paper on the geology of Pales-
tine, in which it is stated that there are no volcanic rocks on the borders
of the Dead Sea. Though these may not have been observed, yet there
are traces of a volcanic neighbourhood in the sulphur found near the
southern extremity of it, and in the hot springs and sulphur in the valley of
Calirrhoe, near the north end ; for a notice of which see the interesting
Travels of Captains Irby and Mangles (printed for private distribution in
1823), p. 453. and 467., and at p. 375. and 577. Distinct volcanoes, some
miles south of the Dead Sea, are described and laid down in the map accom-
panying that work, which it is to be regretted that the authors do not pub-
lish. See also a curious dissertation on the Dead Sea in Dr. Daubeny's
important work on volcanoes, p. 279. — W. C. T. Jan. 1829>

* So that the Rev. Dr. Scot's paper read before the Wernerian Society
contained no new thing. — See Mag. Nat. Hist., Vol.1, p. 291.

120 Obituary.

The Granite, in Yorkshire^ mentioned by your correspondent, L. E. O.
(Vol. I. p. 596. j, is certainly only in the form of large boulders, which are
very numerous in the county of Durham and north of Yorkshire, having
been carried by a strong current from the north-west. In the street at
Darlington is a very large one, which the large flesh-coloured crystals of
felspar it contains show to have travelled from the neighbourhood of Shap,
in Westmoreland, where the same variety of granite appears in the mass.
Many specimens of the same may be traced to the mouth of the Tees. For
a valuable dissertation on the subject of gravel and boulders, I would refer
your correspondent to Professor Buckland's Reliquia; Diluviance, — W. C. T.
Jan. 1829.

Art. X. Obitua

ry.

Charles Peter Tlmnherg, M.D., Knight, F.R.S. L.S. &c.,'^the successor
of the younger Linnaeus as Professor of Botany at Upsal, died on the 8th
of August last, in the 85th year of his age ; after having filled the botanical
chair, during half a century, with indefatigable zeal. He had travelled over
a great part of the world, for the purpose of extending his knowledge, and
exploring nature.

Died, Nov. 24., aged 74 years, Mr. John Ashhy, one ^f the Society of
Friends, and a grocer and draper in Bungay for many years preceding his
death. He commenced his career as a naturalist in entomology ; but, how-
ever amusing the collecting of insects might be, the destroying them was too
revolting for him to practise ; and he then turned his attention to botany,
a study which he pursued with ardour nearly to the time of his decease.
In his earlier life he was acquainted with Mr. Curtis (author of the Flora
Londin^nsis)y Mr. Woodward, and other distinguished naturalists. He dis-
covered many rare plants in this neighbourhood, to which his botanical
rambles were principally confined ; and he is mentioned in Smith's Flora
Britannica and English Flora as the finder of the Ornithogalum luteum at
Shipmeadow, about three miles from this town. • Mr. Ashby formed a her-
barium of British plants, in which may be found not a few of the uncommon
plants of this kingdom. He did not confine himself entirely to botanical
pursuits, as he also formed a very excellent collection of coins ; and his
specimens of fossils, &c. are also rather numerous. — Daniel Stock. Bun-
gay, Feb. 4. 1829.

Died, Jan. 6., in his 79th year, Robert Stone, Esq. F.L.S., formerly an
inhabitant of this town, but for the last twenty years he resided at Beding-
ham Hall, in Norfolk, the family estate. Mr. Stone was well known as a
botanist. An ample testimony of his labours in the science of botany may
be found by a reference to the early editions of Withering's Botanical
Arrangement, in which Mr. Stone assisted, and in which his name so fre-
quently occurs, that to particularise any instance would be quite useless.
His herbarium of British plants is nearly complete. Having spoken of
Mr. Stone as a naturalist, aa a man what am I to say of him who was
universally esteemed and respected by his friends and acquaintance ?

THE MAGAZINE

OF

NATURAL HISTORY

MAY, 18^9.

Art. I. On certain Effects produced by Fresh Water on some
Marine Animals and Plants, Read to the Belfast Natural
History Society, by the President, James L. Drummond, M.D.,
December 30. 1828.

During the past summer, a part of which I spent at the sea-
side, I was anxious to confirm, beyond a possibility of doubt,
an observation which I had made several years ago, viz. that
when the Squamous Sea Mouse (Aphrodit^^ squamata) is put
into fresh water it dies almost instantaneously. I could not,
however, obtain any specimens, but I am certain, at the same
time, that it is a fact ; for, on a former occasion, I brought from
the shore seven or eight specimens of that animal alive in a
phial of sea water, and I found in them all, that, although
perfectly brisk and active in the sea water, the moment they
were dropped into a basin o^ fresh water (and I made the
trial on them one after another), they immediately sank to the
bottom, and never again exhibited the slightest symptom of
life or motion.

The observations I have made lately on another species of
animal, of much larger dimensions, are not a little singular,
and are, I apprehend, altogether new. I obtained a number
of living specimens of the worm, which the fishermen call the
White-worm, or Lurg, or Lurgan. It is the Nereis caerulea
of Linnaeus. These specimens were quite fresh, and were
brought to me in a bowl of sea water. When handled, they
moved with great vivacity, convoluting or twisting their bodies
from side to side, like the larva of a gnat, or else swimming
with great velocity round the basin. They were about as
thick as one's little finger, and fully a foot in length.

On putting one of them into a basin containing some fresh
water it sank to the bottom, and lay for a moment motionless,
as if stunned. It then dashed here and there through the water,

VoL.II. — No. 7. K

122 Effects produced by Fresh Water

violently lashing its anterior and posterior ends from side to
side : but this extreme agitation continued only a few seconds ;
when the animal subsided to the bottom, unable to exhibit
any farther signs of motion than some partial convulsive
twitches in different parts of its body, or a quivering here and
there in its segments or articulations. The skin of the body
was contracted in various places, so as to present a wrinkled
or withered appearance. In six minutes from the immersion
the animal seemed perfectly dead ; the wrinkled appearance of
the skin was gone, and not the slightest mark of irritability
appeared in any part. The other specimens, eight in all, ex-
hibited the same phenomena with little variance. None of
them showed any appearance of vitality after ten minutes' im-
mersion. Three of them protruded very slowly their remark-
able ventricose proboscis (if the latter term can be at all
appropriate) during their last expiring moments, and so it
remained after death.

I allowed the above specimens to remain in water all night ;
and on the following morning, on going to put them in spirits
in order to preserve them, I was surprised to find them so
rotten, that they fell in pieces by their own weight, and were
quite useless as specimens. They had not, however, acquired
any offensive or putrid smell.

Some days afterwards I obtained a fresh supply of living
specimens, some of which were entire ; but a number of them
were in fragments, having been cut through by the spade in
digging. The latter were quite alive, and seemed to have
suffered no more in point of vitality by having been cut, than
the common earthworm does under similar circumstances. I
had proof, too, that the being cut through does not prove fatal;
for, in one of the entire specimens, about 2 in. of the tail end
was a new production. The animal had, at some prior period
been severed by the bait-digger, and a new portion had been
restored. This portion, as is generally the case with repro-
ductions, was smaller in diameter than the rest of the animal.
It was also of a paler hue, and the line of demarcation be-
tween the old and the new parts was very distinctly marked.

The separate pieces of the cut worms, even those which
wanted both head and tail, were affected by the fresh water in
the same way as the entire specimens : they were first thrown
into violent convulsions, then became affected with transient
spasms, and, in a few minutes, all appearance of vitality was
extinguished.

The first idea that struck me, as to the possible cause of
these phenomena, was, that perhaps the water, from wanting the
density of sea water, was unfit for respiration, and that there-

071 some Mamie Afiimals a?id Plants, 32^

fore the animals had died of suffocation. Pennant states
that the torpedo dies in fresh water almost as soon as in the
open air ; but I had already ascertained that these worms will
remain in air for many hours, without seeming to suffer any
inconvenience.

I had a number of specimens lying on a plate motionless ;
for, unless disturbed, they are little inclined to move. I dipped
my hand in fresh water, and with a jerk, sprinkled some drops
of it over the plate, and the specimens on it. In about two
seconds the worms were all in violent agitation, rolling round
on the longitudinal axis of their bodies, and writhing together
in apparent agonies. After a few minutes ihe agitation
ceased, and they again lay motionless. I now tried the effect
of touching an individual with a small drop of fresh water.
The part to which the latter was applied, almost immediately
contracted in the manner that a leech contracts at the place
where a little salt is applied to it, and then, the whole animal
became agitated and dashed violently about the plate, fre-
quently, at the same time, protruding and contracting its pro-
boscis. Similar effects followed every trial I made, and it
mattered not what part of the animal was touched ; the smallest
drop of water from the point of a probe produced the partial
contraction at the part, and then the general convulsive
writhing and agitation of the whole body. Even fragments of
the worm were similarly affected. It appeared to me, how-
ever, that the mouth extremity was more sensible to the touch
of the poison than any other part, as the convulsive efforts
which followed seemed more violent, and longer continued
than when the water was applied elsewhere.

I made similar trials on many of these animals, and invari-
ably found the same results. The most striking way of ex-
emplifying the virulent effects of fresh water is, when the
worm is at rest to apply consecutively from the point of a
probe ten or a dozen small drops of sea water to any part of
it, this causes no alteration ; the animal continues motionless.
If we then change the drop to be applied from salt to fresh,
the very first application of the latter immediately produces
the phenomena above described.

In whatever way it is that fresh water proves so poisonous
and fatal to this species, one thing is obvious, that the animal
can never propagate except under the influence of sea water.
It can never colonise rivers or lakes, and the subject, if farther
pursued by experiments on other species, may, perhaps, throw
some light on the distribution of animals. The Lurg-worms
cannot even safely inhabit those parts of the shore which are
long uncovered by the sea; a heavy shower of rain during

K 2

124 Effects produced by Fresh Water

ebb tide might destroy them ; and it is only a casual circum-
stance that one of them is found in the usual place of digging
for bait. They must be sought for at the verge of low-water
mark, and they are only to be found in plenty, and of full
growth, during the neap tides.

The common Lug (Zumbricus marinus) is, on the con-
trary, generally dug out of the sand at a considerable distance
from low-tide mark, and where it is left dry for many hours.
Showers of rain, therefore, we should suppose, can exercise no
deleterious influence on it ; and accordingly I found that some
lug, which I kept immersed for several hours in fresh water,
did not seem to be at all incommoded by it.

That fresh water has a considerable influence on the vitality
of some marine plants is obvious from the following remarks.
"When we examine fresh specimens of i^ucus punctatus. Con-
ferva setacea, or U'Uo. dich6toma, we find that they possess a
very considerable degree of rigidity, or firmness. Now, I
have observed that these plants, after being immersed in fresh
water for a short time, lose their firmness, and become per-
fectly flaccid. They also change their colour in a material
degree especially the first two. These, when gathered fresh,
are of a garnet-red colour ; but, when immersed in fresh water,
the tint soon turns to orange.

These, however, are not the only changes which take place.
I had long ago remarked that when recent specimens of
-Fucus punctatus or Conferva setacea are immersed in fresh
water for a few seconds, and then taken from it, they give out
a crackling or crepitating noise, like that made by fine salt
when thrown into a fire. I had observed, too, that during
the continuance of this crepitation. Conferva setacea (especially
if in fruit) projected minute globules of water, or some fluid,
to a distance of several inches. I last summer observed also
a weak crackling noise in LTlva dichotoma under similar cir-
cumstances.

Now, in all these, the crepitation, when it ceases, which is
in a few seconds, may be renewed by again dipping it in the
fresh water, and then removing it; but at each successive
time the crackling is weaker, and it ceases altogether after a
third or fourth immersion. If the specimen, also, have been
in the water longer than a few minutes, the crackling is very
weak, or not perceived at all. The cause of it in Conferva
setacea I have clearly ascertained, and it may be easily seen,
with the help of a common pocket magnifier, or even by the
naked eye.

I poured some fresh water on a common white plate to the
depth of about one twelfth part of an inch, and in this I put a

on some Marine Animals and Plants, 125

portion of the plant quite fresh from the shore. It remained
for several minutes quiescent, and then some of the divisions
of the frond exhibited sudden startings like spasms. I had re-
peatedly before been amused by watching this appearance on
a larger scale though with the naked eye, by putting a bunch
of the plant in a basin of water. When so placed it soon
assumes the appearance, to a considerable degree, of being
animated ; instantaneous startings are observed in the chief
branches, along with lateral motions of the smaller branches,
which are seen to move towards, or to diverge from, the
former.

But the cause of these startings, and of the consequent mo-
tions of the branchlets, was more obvious, by observing what
passed in 2ijportion of the plant laid in a thin stratum of water
on a plate, as above alluded to. The colour of the specimen
was, when so placed, homogeneous throughout ; but whenever
the startings took place, a change began to take place also in
the colour. The joints of the plant are filled with the co-
loured fluid ; and while it is in the salt water the septa, or
partitions between the joints, remain entire; but when the
influence of the fresh water is felt, the septa burst, and the
contents of one joint are exploded into the next, the colouring
matter, at the same time, losing its uniform tint, and curdling
into grains, or granular points of a dark hue, as if concen-
trating itself in order to part from the fluid through which it
had been before uniformly diffused. From the violence with
which the contained fluids are urged through the partitions of
the joints, breaches form in the sides, also, of some of them, and
then at every new spasm a quantity of the colouring matter is
hurried through these lateral breaches into the circumambient
water. The latter explosions present under a common mag-
nifier an extremely interesting appearance. They are instan-
taneous ; and when the projected fluid has attained its extreme
distance, the colouring matter suddenly settles in a cloud of
dark grains, so as to give not an unlively idea of a bomb-shell
in the act of bursting. Repeated explosions take place from
the same breach, but at very uncertain intervals. Sometimes
several occur in rapid succession, and again half a minute or
more intervenes between them. It appeared to me that each
explosion from the lateral breaches was caused by a new rup-
ture between some twojoints.

These observations I repeated many times, and I here state
what I remarked as exactly as is in my power. They are
only, however, what I observed with a common magnifier, or
with the naked eye ; but, perhaps, a more patient research,

K 3

126 Effects of Fresh Water on some Marine Productions.

assisted by a good microscope, may open up still more satis-
factory views of the subject.

With respect to the other two species, I can speak with less
precision ; I shall state, however, what I believe to have ascer-
tained, though I shall not venture to speak undoubtingly.
The C/lva dichotoma has a reticulated texture, which, as
Lightfoot observes, gives it the appearance, when magnified,
of belonging to the genus Flustra of corallines. Now it ap-
peared to me, when examining portions of this plant under the
influence of fresh water, and in the field of an Ellis's micro-
scope, that each of the cells which cause the reticulated appear-
ance was covered by a membranons lid, which, from the pre-
sence of the fresh water, burst up with violence. On examining
jFucus punctatus in the same way, soon after its first contact
with fresh water, I could perceive a very evident jerking mo-
tion occurring here and there over its surface, with an appear-
ance as if little facets or scales had been suddenly let loose,
like the lid of a hunting watch when the spring is pressed. I
must observe, however, that what I have stated of these last
two plants is to be considered as only an introductory view of
the subject, and that farther investigation will be necessary to
give absolute certainty. At the same time the analogy between
the phenomena presented by the three species mentioned is
so strong, that there can be little doubt of their being regulated
by the same law. I believe the C/^lva dichotoma gets paler by
immersion in fresh water ; but of this I am not prepared to
speak positively. Respecting the other two species there can
be no hesitation, they both give out their colouring matter
copiously to the fresh water in which they are placed, and that
in a very short time. If the Conferva setacea be spread on
paper in sea water, it retains its original hue ; there is no
bursting up of its septa, nor breaches in its sides, and it does
not tinge the paper on which it is spread. I have preserved a
number of specimens in this way. i^ucus punctatus, when
preserved in the same manner, retains its original deep hue,
and does not tinge the paper. The flaccidity which takes
place in them all is scarcely to be accounted for, except on the
principle that their texture is in some respect broken up, and
we may presume also that, as in Conferva setacea, both the
other species explode the contents of their cells or cavities.

The circumstance of these plants giving out their colouring
matter to the paper on which they are spread has been often
remarked, but has never before, I apprehend, been suspected
of being connected with their vitality. That it is so, however,
the observations made above clearly demonstrate. For it is
not because the plant is dead that the colouring matter is given

Indications of Spring. 127

out, but, on the contrary, because it is living ; and it appears
to me that the phenomena exhibited by the Conferva setacea,
when immersed in fresh water, are very analogous to those of
the Lurg-worm. It is a living body labouring under the effects
of poison; and the bursting up of its septa, the breaches
formed in its sides, the curdling, and spasmodic explosion of
its colouring matter, are, like the convulsions of the worm, the
symptoms which characterise its expiring struggles in the arms
of a deadly foe.

It is obvious that what I have said respecting the dissemi-
nation of the Lurg-worm will equally apply to these plants.
The ocean is their prescribed element, and they can never
appear under any form or variety in lakes, rivers, or any col-
lection of fresh water whatever.

How extensive the field may be which these remarks are
calculated to lead to I cannot conjecture : but I apprehend
there can be little doubt that many interesting facts of an ana-
logous kind remain in store for future observation ; and I hope
that I may again have an opportunity of laying before the
Society farther information on this subject.

Art. it. Indications of Spring, By Robert Marsham, Esq., and
Lord Suffield. Communicated by R. C. Taylor, Esq. F.G.S.

The following Table of the " indications of spring " con-
tains the result of more than sixty years' observation, by Ro-
bert Marsham, Esq., of Stratton Strawless, in the county of
Norfolk ; a gentleman of whom it need scarcely be premised
that he was an attentive and accurate observer of the pheno-
mena of nature. In this work he probably derived some
assistance, latterly, from his neighbour Lord Suffield. Strat-
ton Hall, where Mr. Marsham recorded his remarks, is nearly
in the centre of Norfolk, and its neighbourhood was greatly
embellished by the judicious skill which he exhibited in the
rural art of planting. The Table was printed for private dis-
tribution many years ago, but I am not aware that it was
otherwise published. At all events the register is so curious
and so appropriate to the design of your Magazine, that it well
deserves an early place in its pages. I have introduced an
essential alteration in the arrangement, for the sake of a better
classification of the indications. To the meteorologist, also,
this document cannot fail to be acceptable, since it marks the
range of variation in the climate of the eastern part of the
kingdom. The earliest date recorded is the year 1735j and

K 4

128

Cuvierlan System of Zoology,

the latest observation appears in 1800. The least variation is
in the time of the appearance of the migratory birds, and the
hatching of young rooks. The greatest range is in the blos-
soming of the turnip, the appearance of the yellow butterfly,
and the singing of the thrush.

INDICATIONS OF SPRING,

Earliest

Latest,

Greatest DiflTerence
( observed in

Medium
Time.

Thrush sinsrs •...

1735, Dec. 4.
1752, April 7.
1781, April 29.
1752, April 9.
1751, Dec. 27.
1800, Feb. 2.
1747, Mar. 26.!

1736, Mar. 30.
1750, Feb. 20.
J790,Jan. 14.

1778, Dec. 24.
1796, Jan. 10.
1790, Mar. 16.
1759, Feb. 11.
1750, April 13.
1750, Feb. 22.
1750, Feb. 21.

1779, Mar. 4.
1779, Mar. 5.
1750, Mar. 31.
1779, April 5.
1763, Mar. 10.
1794, Mar. 28.
1794,- Mar. 7.
1779, April 2.
1794, Mar. 19.
1794, Mar. 15.

1766, Feb. 13.
1792, May 19.
1792, June 26.

1767, May 7.
1761, Mar. 20.
1757, Mar. 14.
1764, April 24.
1797, April 26.
1771, May 4.

1783, April 17.
1795, Feb. 10.
1790, June 18.

1784, April 22L
1784, April 22.
1799, June 2.
1771, May 4.
1771, May 4.
1784, May 6.
1771, May 2.
1799, May 20.
1771, May 10.
1771, May 2.

1770, May 12.

1771, May 7.

1772, May 26.
1756, May 7.
1771, May 7.

5Q years — 81 days.
59 years — 42 days.

46 years— 58 days.

51 years — 29 days.

47 years — 83 days.

53 years — 40 days.

52 years — 29 days.
62 years — 27 days.
57 years — 73 days.
36 years— 93 days.
65 years — 48 days.
55 years— 129 days.
30 years — 37 days.
59 years — 70 days.
59 years — 50 days.
57 years — 71 days.

52 years— 72 days.
47 years — 63 days.
43 years — 57 days.

54 years— 50 days.

53 years — 35 days.
47 years — 52 days.
36 years — 45 days.
40 years — 61 days.
36 years— 54 days.
43 years — 49 days.
34 years— 53 days.

1747, Jan. 14.

1784, April 28.
1760, May 29.
1789, April 23.
1750, Jan. 22.
1744, Feb. 21.
1789, April 14.

1777, April 13.
1763, Mar. 30.
1773, Mar. 3.
1750, Jan. 15.
1742, April 15.

1778, April 5
1758, Mar. 19.
1744, May 12.

1744, Mar. 30.

1745, Mar. 29.
1773, April 6.
1773, April 6.
1757, April 26.

1785, April 23.
1784, April 23.
1776, April 21.
1789, April 9.

1787, April 29.
1796, April 13.

1788, April 12.

Nijrhtincale sines

Ring Doves coo ............

Rooks build

Frogs and Toads croak ...
Yellow Butterfly appears
Snowdrop apiJears

Turnip flowers •

Wood Anemone blows...

Hawthorn flowers

Sycamore leaf ••

Birch leaf

Elm leaf.

Oak leaf

Beech leaf.

Horsechestnut leaf... ...

Spanish Chestnut leaf.....
Hornbeam leaf ..<

Ash leaf

T.imp lf>af ..........

Maple leaf.

Art. III. The Cuvierian, or Natural^ System of Zoology,

. Essay 3. The Characters of Vertebrated Animals^ and their Divi-
sion into Four Classes ; Mammijerous Animals^ Birds, Reptiles,
and Fishes. Distinctive Characters of each Class, By B.

Having given in the preceding essays Baron Cuvier's ge-
neral view of animal physiology, and stated the principles on
which he establishes four grand divisions of the animal king-
dom, I shall, in the present essay, comprise his more ample
description of the characters of the first division, Verte-
brated Animals ; also the distinctive characters of each of the
four classes into which they are divided. It will be shown
that this division into four classes is justly founded upon the
internal organisation, and not upon the external forms, of ani-
mals ; and the reader will not fail to perceive the importance,
indeed the absolute necessity, of an acquaintance with the lead-
ing facts in animal physiology, if he would obtain a correct
knowledge of zoology as a science.

Cuvierian System of Zoology, 129

Vertebrated animals form the most important division of the
animal kingdom. Their bodies and limbs being supported by a
framework {charpente) or skeleton, composed of pieces which
are connected or movable ; their motions have more strength
and precision than those of animals in the other divisions, and
the solidity of their supports permits them to attain a great
size: the largest animals are found in this division. The
nervous system of vertebrated animals being more concen-
trated, and the central mass or brain more voluminous, than in
animals in the other three divisions, their sensations {sentz-
mens) have more energy and duration, hence they possess
superior intelligence and greater perfectability.

The body of vertebrated animals is composed of a head, a
trunk, and limbs.

The head is formed of the skull which encloses the brain,
and of the face which is composed of two jaws, and the recep-
tacles of the organs of sense. The trunk is supported by the
backbone and the ribs.

The backbone, or spine, is composed of numerous bones
called vertebrae, moving upon each other ; the first supports
the head. All the vertebrae are perforated, and together they
form a bony channel or tube, in which is lodged that trunk of
the nervous system called the spinal marrow.

The backbone is most frequently prolonged beyond the
lower limbs, and forms a tail.

The ribs are semicircles, which protect the sides of the
cavity of the body ; most frequently they are articulated at one
end to the vertebrae, and at the other to the breastbone or
sternum ; sometimes they are scarcely visible.

Vertebrated animals have never more than two pair of
limbs ; sometimes the hind limbs, and sometimes the fore limbs,
and sometimes both pairs are wanting, and take other forms
relating to the motions they have to perform. The fore limbs
may be converted into hands, or feet, or legs, or fins ; the hind
limbs into feet or fins. - -

The blood of vertebrated animals is always red, and has a
composition proper to maintain the energy of feeling, and the
muscular vigour which exist in different degrees in' the ani-
mals belonging to this division, and which correspond with
the quantity of respiration. . -.

The organs of the external senses are always two eyes, two
ears, two nostrils, the teguments or covering of the tongue,
and those of the whole body. There are always two jaws: the
principal motion is in the lower, which rises and falls ; the upper
is sometimes entirely fixed. Both jaws are most frequently
armed with teeth, excrescenqes of a peculiar nature^ very

130 Ctwierian ^stem of Zoology,

similar to bone in their chemical composition, but which
increase by layers {couches) and by transudation. But one
entire class, namely, birds, have their jaws covered with
horny beaks, and this is the case with the genus tortoise in
the class of reptiles. The above characters, which are chiefly
external, would enable any person unacquainted with physio-
logy to distinguish verlebrated animals from those in the other
divisions. Some orders of articulated animals approach in
form the nearest to vertebrated animals, but they have no
internal skeleton.

The characters derived from the internal structure and orga-
nisation are striptly physiological, and the learner must refer
to what has been stated in the first and second essays respect-
ing them.

Jn the division of vertebrated animals, the nerves unite with
the spinal jpord through passages in the vertebrae, or in the
skull s they appear all to unite into a double bundle {faisceau)
which forms this spinal cord, and which, after having crossed
its filaments, spreads and swells out to form the divers tuber-
dps of which the brain is composed, and terminates in two
medullary masses called hemispheres, the I'elative volume of
which corresponds with the extent of intelligence.

The intestinal canal extends from the mouth to the anus,
undergoing, in its course, various expansions and contractions :
it has different appendages, and receives different dissolving
fluids. That which pours into the mouth is called the saliva;
other fluids which enter the intestines have received different
names; the two principal are the secretion from the gland
called the pancreas, and the bile which is secreted by another
very considerable gland called the liver.

While the digested aliments traverse the 'alimentary canal,
the part proper for imtrition, called the*chyle, is absorbed by
particular vessels called lacteals, and is carried into the veins ;
the residue of the nutrition is also carried into the veins by
vessels analogous to the lacteals, forming with them one sys-
tem, called the system of the lymphatic vessels.

The veins bring back to the heart the blood which has
served to nourish the different parts, and which has been
renewed by the chyle and the lymph ; but this blood is obliged
to pass wholly, or in part, into the organ of respiration, to
regain the nature of arterial blood by the absorption of oxygen,
and by exhalation, before it is carried back into the arteries.
In the first three classes of animals, the respiratory organs are
lungs, an assemblage of cells into which the atmospheric air
penetrates. In fishes the respiration is performed by gills, a
series of lammae between which the water passes.

Cuvierian System of Zoology, 131

In all vertebrated animals the blood which supplies the liver
with the matter that forms the bile, is veinous blood which
has circulated in the intestines, and which, after reuniting in
one trunk, called the vena porta, is spread again through the
liver. All vertebrated animals have a particular secretion
from two large glands attached to the sides of the backbone
called the kidneys ; this liquor, denominated urine, generally
remains sometime in a reservoir called the bladder.

The sexes are always distinctly separated ; but the mode of
impregnation varies very much. The eggs of some reptiles,
and of almost all fishes, are impregnated by the male after they
are spawned.

We may perceive in the above characters, how far all ver-
tebrated animals resemble each other : nevertheless they admit
of four grand subdivisions or classes, characterised by the
kind or strength of their motions, which also depend on the
quantity of their respiration ; since it is from the respiration
that the muscular fibres derive their energy, and their irri-
tability.

The quantity of respiration depends on two conditions : the
first is the relative proportion of blood which is presented to
the respiratory organs in a given time ; the second, the relative
proportion of oxygen which enters into the composition of the
fluid in which the animal lives, whether water or air.

The quantity of blood which is acted on by respiration, de-
pends on the structure and disposition of the organs of respir-
ation and circulation. The organs of circulation may be double,
so that all the blood which is returned by the veins is obliged
to circulate through the respiratory organs, before it is carried
again to different parts by the arteries ; or these organs may
be simple, so that only a portion of the blood returned from the
body to the heart is obliged to pass through the respiratory
organs, and the rest circulates again through the body, with-
out having been subjected to the effects of respiration. The
latter is the case with reptiles ; their quantity of respiration,
and all the qualities that depend on it, vary according to the
proportion of blood which enters the lungs at each pulsation.
From these characters Cuvier forms the four subdivisions or
classes of vertebrated animals, which are, —

Class 1. Mammiferous Animals, which, bring forth their young
alive and suckle them, being provided with teats (Lat. mam"
mce), whence the name is derived.

Class 2. Birds,

Class 3. Reptiles,

Class 4. Fisk,

132

Cmierian System qf Zoology.

The general plan of the skeleton is the same in each class,
though it admits of considerable modifications, as may be per-

ceived by the annexed figures. Fig, 30. a represents the hu-
man skeleton, man being placed at the head of the mammiferous
class ; b, the skeleton of a bird ; c, that of a frog ; and d, the
skeleton of a fish. Man is preeminently gifted by his Creator
with superior intellectual powers, he is distinguished also by
his erect posture, which required a structure varying consi-
derably from that of mammiferous quadrupeds: had we
chosen the skeleton [of any of the lower orders of this class,
the form would have approached more closely to those of the
other classes, but taking the extremes of the grand division of
vertebrated animals, we still perceive the leading characters
of the osteology to be the same. Namely, a skull containing
the brain, supported by the vertebral column which contains
the spinal cord, and to which the ribs are attached. With
respect to the limbs, they admit of a great variety of form
suited to the wants of the animal, and in the lowest order
of the mammiferous class, which comprises dolphins and
whales, we find only one pair of limbs, and in the latter,
they are so concealed in the flesh, as not to be visible. The
upper limbs of birds do not terminate in toes or claws. Some
reptiles have only one pair of limbs, others, as serpents, have
none.

The distinctive characters of the four classes above enume-
rated founded not on the form of the skeleton, but on the
circulation and respiration, are thus given by Cuvier.

Mammiferous Animals have a double circulation, and
the aerial respiration is simple, viz. it is effected by the lungs
only.

Cuvierian System qfZoology, 133

Birds exceed mammiferous quadrupeds in the quantity of
their respiration, for they have not only a double circulation,
and an aerial respiration, but they respire also through other
cavities besides the lungs, the air penetrating through the
whole body, and bathing the branches of the aorta or great
artery of the body, as well as those of the pulmonary artery.

Fishes have a double circulation, but their respiratory or-
gans (the gills) are only formed to respire by the intervention
of water, and their blood only receives the portion of oxygen
dissolved or mixed in the water, so that the quantity of re-
spiration is, perhaps, less than that of the next class. Reptiles.

Reptiles. The organs of circulation are simple, and only
a portion of the blood brought back by the veins passes
through the organs of respiration. Their quantity of respir-
ation, and all the other qualities that depend on it, vary ac-
cording to the proportion of blood which enters the lungs at
each pulsation.

In mammiferous quadrupeds the quantity of respiration is
less than that of birds ; but it is greater than that of reptiles,
on account of the structure of the respiratory organs ; and ex-
ceeds that of fishes, on account of the different elements in
which they live. Hence result the four kinds of movements,
which the four classes of vertebrated animals are particularly
destined to exert.

Mammiferous animals, in which the quantity of respiration
is moderate, are generally formed to develope their strength in
walking or running. Birds, which have a larger quantity of
respiration, have the activity and strength of muscles neces-
sary for flying. Reptiles, in which respiration is more feeble,
are condemned to crawl ; and many of them pass a part of
their lives in a kind of torpor. Fishes require to be sup-
ported in an element nearly as heavy as themselves, in order
to exert their proper motions in swimming.

All the circumstances of organisation proper to each of the
four classes, and particularly those which regard their move-
ments and exterior sensations, have a necessary relation with
their essential characters ; nevertheless, the class of mammi-
ferous animals has particular characters belonging to their
viviparous generation, the manner in which the foetus is
nourished in the womb by means of the placenta, and the
teats with which they suckle their young. On the contrary,
the other three classes are oviparous ; and if we contrast them
together with the first class, we shall find certain resem-
blances which indicate in the three classes, birds, fishes, and
reptiles, a special plan of organisation, comprised in the
general plan of all vertebrated animals. B.

134* Preternatural Growth of the Incisor Teeth,

Art. IV. Observations on a preternatural Grotvth of the Incisor
Teeth, occasionally observed in certain of the Mammctlia rodentia.
By the Rev. Leonard Jenyns, F.L.S.

Instances of the wild rabbit have occasionally been met
with in Cambridgeshire, in which the fore-teeth had grown to
so great a length, as to be rendered wholly unfit for the pur-
poses they are intended to serve.

This disease, as, in truth, it may be strictly called, has been
often observed before *, both in these, and, I believe, also in
other animals of the order Rodentia (les Rongeurs Cuv.), whose
incisors are all constructed on the same, or nearly the same,
plan. Nor is it for the novelty of the occurrence that the
following remarks are offered: my present object is merely
to draw attention to the circumstances of at least two cases,
that were not attended by that accident which is usually
supposed to produce the singularity in question.

It appears to be the statement of some authors, that, in
order to occasion this anomaly, it is necessary that one pair
of incisors, or one single incisor, be either broken or fallen
outf; and that it is for want of the accustomed attrition
against the teeth which are deficient, that the opposite pair
grow to an unusual extent. This is so far true, that, I believe,
in all cases, it is in immediate consequence of the cutting edge
not being worn away, or at least to that degree that it is in
healthy individuals from constant use, and to supply which
loss these teeth are provided with the power of growth J, that
this irregularity shows itself: but I would observe that the

* See Plott's Natural History of Staffordshire, p. 252. tab. 22. fig. 6.;
also Morton's Natural History of Norttiamptonshire, p. 445.

f Cuvier, speaking of the incisors of the Roddntia, observes, " Leur
forme prismatique fait qu'elles croissent de la racine a mesure qu'elles
s*usent du tranchant, et cette disposition a croitre est si forte, que si Vune
ffelles se perd ou se casse, celle qui lui etait opposee n'ayant plus rien qui
la comminue, se d^veloppe au point de devenir monstrueuse." — Regne
Animal, tom.i. p. 187.

J It is well known to comparative anatomists, that the incisors of the
Rodentia, like the tusks of the elephant and hippopotamus, are in a con-
stant state of growth, and that they are furnished with roots which in
length nearly equal the jaw itself, curving back underneath the grinders,
and extending in some cases as far as the coronoid processes. In con-
sequence of this singular provision of nature, so admirably adapted to the
habits and economy of this tribe, there is a constant, yet gradual, advance-
ment of the interior part of the tooth, to supply the place of the portion
worn down in feeding, &c. ; and, under ordinary circumstances, this in-
crease is so nicely regulated, that the cutting edges of the two pairs of
incisors always preserve the same relative situation with respect to each
other. A good description and representation of this contrivance may be
seen in Blake* s Essay on Teeth. {Disputatio med, inaug. de Dentium For-
matione, &c., p. 88 — 91., tab. 5. fig. 9.)

in certain of the Mammalia rodentia.

ultimate cause of the evil may arise from other accidents
besides those above mentioned. Thus, it may originate from
too soft food ; from a morbid and too rapid secretion of the
osseous matter of the tooth, which is constantly being deposited
at its root, or from some slight derangement of the under jaw ;
such as, for instance, a dislocation of one of its condyles, where-
by the incisors of that jaw would be thrown out of their proper
position, and their cutting edges could not be brought fairly
into contact with those of the opposite pair. In either of
these cases, the growth of the teeth will be over-proportioned
to their abrasion by the acts of gnawing and feeding, and a
preternatural elongation of that part which is above the gums
will immediately take place. It is obvious that this diseased
growth will be more or less rapid according to the degree of
influence exerted by the predisposing cause, and the length of
time it has operated. Perhaps, in the first stage of the malady,
its progress may be very gradual, and not much interfere with
the usual habits of the animal; but the teeth having once
attained such a length that, under any circumstances, their
edges cannot be brought to act upon each other, their growth
must be much more rapid, and ultimately prove such an
inconvenience, as must often terminate in the starvation of
the sufferer.

It is to one of the above causes that I would attribute this
singular accident in the two following instances, in neither of
which was there any deficiency in the proper number of teeth,
or appearance of their having
been broken.

In the first of these rab-
bits, which is preserved in the
museum of the Cambridge
Philosophical Society, and is
a remarkably fine example of
the anomaly in question, the
lower incisors are the pair
chiefly elongated (7%. 31.);
and they are here so prodi-
giously developed, as to turn
completely over the nose,
measuring in length, from the
surface of the gum to their
cutting edges, no less than two
inches and one eighth. * I
am inclined to suggest, that,
in this case, it was a too rapid secretion of the osseous matter

* The usual length of this portion of the incisor in the wild rabbit is
only three lines, or a quarter of an inch.

136 Preternatural Growth of Incisors in Mamm, rodentia.

of the tooth in the lower jaw that led to the disease ; because,
under any other circumstances, it seems probable that both
pairs of incisors would have been equally elongated; where-
as the upper pair were, comparatively speaking, but little
affected. In the second rabbit that occurred this was
found to be the case, and both pairs were observed to have
very much exceeded the usual length ; but then, in this
instance, there was such an irregularity in their mode of
growth, that we may, perhaps, find a better explanation of the
anomaly in some derangement of the jaws, the result either of
natural constitution or of accidental injury. Whatever this
might have been (for I regret that this rabbit was not pre-
served, and no examination of the jaws made at the time), the
effect was that of causing the lower pair of incisors, when
viewed together, to assume the shape and appearance of the
letter V, diverging from one another at the surface of the
gum, and extending in opposite directions, to the length of
nearly an inch and a half. The degree of divergency observed
in the upper pair was nearly as great as this in the lower, and
their length about the same ; but their curvature very much
greater ; as, indeed, would necessarily result from the greater
bend of that portion of the jaw in which these incisors are
formed. In this instance, the portion without the gums had
completed three parts of an exact circle, and their cutting
edges were in close contact with the roof of the mouth.

Both the above rabbits, when taken, exhibited the appear-
ance of being nearly starved to death, through an inabiUty of
procuring their usual food. In the first case, life had been
sustained solely by the small quantity of herbage which the
animal, was enabled to crop with its lips at the side of the
mouth, which appeared to have been used for that purpose.
In the second instance, even this method of feeding could
scarcely have been resorted to with success, the rabbit being
absolutely unable to close its mouth, from the pressure of the
lower portion of the curve, formed by the upper incisors upon
the surface of the tongue.

The individuals to which the foregoing observations relate
occurred in the neighbourhood of Cambridge. I have since
then being favoured by a friend with a third example of this
monstrosity, in a rabbit killed in Lincolnshire, one of whose
upper incisors was even longer than in the case last mentioned,
having actually grown into the palate, and reentered that
portion of the jaw from whence it originally sprung. This
appeared to be the result of some local disease, affecting, in
the first instance, that single tooth, which was also much
twisted in its direction ; but, as in process of time the growth
of this tooth became so great as to interrupt the operation of

(hi the Kath of the Ancient He1/re*ms. 1 37

feeding, and thereby to diminish the ordinary frictioit upon
the edges of the other three incisors, these hkewise uUimately
became preternaturally elongated, though to a much less
degree.

Art. V. On the Kath of the Ancient Hebretvs, considered as the
Pelican of the Moderns."^ By David Scot, M.D. M.W.S.
F.H.S.E.

Kath is a species of bird reckoned unclean by the law of
the Hebrews, and mentioned five times in their writings. In
three passages f, it is rendered pelican by the Sept. Why it
should not be so rendered in the other two passages if, it is not
easy to discover. Perhaps the translators of these were not
the same as the translators of the former ; and what not a little
favours this conjecture, the translators of the prophets are ob-
served to be inferior to those of the law.

It is rendered pelican by the Vulg. in one passage §, but
onocrotalus in three passages.il Nor is the Vulgate to be
charged with inconsistency in so doing; for onocrotalus is
understood to be the same bird as the pelican. Formerly
naturalists were not agreed upon this point ; but, latterly, the
number of dissenting voices has been on the decline. The
arguments for and against it have been stated by Professor
Cyprian, in his enlarged edition of Franzius's History of
Animals,

Onocrotalus is properly a creature that brays like an ass,
and the pelican is thought to have got that name from the
harshness of its cry. This it chiefly utters when on the wing.
In this respect it imitates those birds which approach it in
size ; such as the heron, the wild swan, and the crane.

Some say that the cry of the pelican resembles the complaint
of a man in distress, and that David compares himself to it on
account of his moaning.4- " By reason of the voice of my
groaning my bones cleave to my skin. I am like a pelican of
the wilderness : I am like an owl of the desert. I watch, and
am like a lonely bird on the house top."

Of this passage the points of comparison may be disputed,

* Read before the Wer. Nat. Hist. Soc. 31st Jan. 1829, and communi-
cated to the Magazine of Natural History, by Dr. Scot, Feb. 25.
f Levit. xi. 18. Deut. xiv. 17., and Psalms cii. 7.
X Isa. xxxiv. 11., and Zeph. ii. 14.
§ Psal. cii. 7.

II Levit. xi. 18. Isa. xxxiv. U., and Zeph. ii. 14.
4- Psal. cii. 5, 6, 7.

Vol. II. — No. V. l .

138 On the Kath of the Ancient Hebrews,

Whether does the Psalmist'compare himself to those birds from
his moaning, his leanness, or his solitude ?

There is no idea intimated in the psalm that the Psalmist
was in solitude, farther than that the birds with which he com-
pares himself were solitary. They are called the pelican of the
wilderness, the owl of the desert, the lonely bird on the house
top. In all probability these birds are said to be solitary,
because they cry when they are in that state.

If it be said that the Psalmist compares himself to these
birds on account of his leanness, the comparison will only hold
betwixt himself and the pelican. This bird is always lean, and
so are most birds which live upon fish, particularly the gull
tribe ; but the owl is not mentioned for its leanness, nor the
lonely bird on the house top.

If it be argued that he compares himself to these birds from
the resemblance of his moaning to their cry, w^e are disposed to
acquiesce. The cry of a man in grief is very disagreeable to the
ear, and the cry of the pelican has always been reckoned such.

When David compared his moaning to the cry of the peli-
can, the comparison cannot be termed more improper than
that of Hezekiah, when he compared his chattering, as the
English Bible calls it, to that of the swallow and the crane,
which they utter on the wing, whether they be moved with
grief or not.

Some other birds, which make a disagreeable noise, have
also been thought to be called onocrotali, particularly the bit-
tern and spoonbill. The noise which the bittern makes is
horrible and loud, and there have not been wanting some who
believe onocrotalus to be the bittern. Others reckon it to be
the spoonbill ; and it seems to be agreed upon that the spoon-
bill makes more noise than the pelican, but that it is not so
harsh. We agree with those who think the onocrotalus to be
the pelican, rather than the bittern or spoonbill ; though, at
the same time, it must be confessed that it is not very clear
what bird the ancients meant, either by the pelican or the
onocrotalus.

Onocrotalus, if the etymology be considered, is any bird
whose cry is so harsh as to suggest the braying of an ass,
whether the bittern, spoonbill, or pelican of the moderns be
understood. Pelican, pelicanos; or, with the moderns, peli-
canus pelicani ; is still more uncertain in its application. Some
derive it from pelekan, to cut with an axe ; and Aristophanus
calls the Picus martins the pelican, " apo ton pelekan ta zula^^
from cutting trees with its bill. Aristotle, Cicero, and Pliny,
however, seem to derive the word apo to2i plateos, from the
breadth of the bill, and certainly mean either the spoonbill, or

considered as the Pelican of the Moderns, 1S9

me pelican of the moderns ; or, at least, a bird that frequents
the waters and lives on fish. If we could satisfy ourselves that
the word pelican came from pelat^ a verb in Chaldee to vomit,
the pelican of the Greeks, and the kath of the Hebrews,
would have precisely the same meaning.

While the Septuagint and Jerome have occasionally ren-
dered the kath of the Hebrews the pelican, the critics on the
Continent are for rendering it the spoonbill ; though we have
not heard by what arguments that rendering is supported.
We know that Bochart was inclined to translate kath the heron
or bittern ; or rather the pelican^ heron^ or bittern ; because
he had taken up the idea that cos standing' next to kath in
the two lists of birds, given in Leviticus and Deuteronomy,
was the pelican ; but it did not occur to him that kath was the
spoonbill.

As the ancient Greeks seem to have given the name of ono-
crotalus to the white pelican from its disagreeable cry, soothe
Arabians for a similar reason call it the water camel.

In the English Bible kath is translated pelican in Leviticus,
Deuteronomy, and Psalms, but with an inconsistency not easy
to account for, cormorant in Isaiah and Zephaniah. The
cormorant is a sea bird, living entirely by the fish which it
catches in the ocean; and there is a manifest absurdity in
making it dwell in the ruins of a great city, among houbaras*,
owls, and ravens.

Both Isaiah and Zephaniah say that the kath was to take up
its abode in the ruins of Babylon and Nineveh, and this is a very
intelligible and probable account when spoken of the pelican.
Babylon stood upon the Euphrates, and Nineveh upon the
Tigris, and pelicans fed on the fishes of those rivers, and when
their hunger was appeased, retired to the ruins to rest, whether
during the night or the day.

In habits, however, whatever may be the size, there is not
a great difference between the pelican and cormorant. Both
of them have a pouch below the chops, though that of the
cormorant is but small, and this circumstance makes the
resemblance still more striking. While Linnaeus has called the
former Pelecanus Onocrotalus, he has given to the latter the
name of Pelecanus Carbo. The name of Pelecanus Onocrotalus
was given to the white pelican by Hasselquist the Swedish tra-
veller, and from him, we believe, introduced by Linnaeus into
his system.

* See the author's dissertation on the kephud of the Hebrew Scriptures,
considered as the houbara of the Arabs, and not the hedgehog of the Eng-
lish Bible.

L 2

140 On the Kath of the Ancient Hebretvs,

Kath, the original term for pelican, is taken from kae, to
vomit, and it is undoubtedly given to this bird, from its throw-
ing up the food, which it has lodged in the large pouch under
the lower mandible. This can be distended so much as to
admit the heads of two men ; and it is found to be a most con-
venient receptacle for the food which this bird collects for
itself and its young.

Many of the ancients have said that the proper food of this
bird is shellfish, which it swallows, and throws up when the
heat of its stomach has opened the shells.

In all probability, however, what it collects of shellfish goes
no farther than the pouch ; and continues in the pouch till the
seams are opened with its heat. Then the fishes are thrown
out, and the bird picks out the flesh, and leaves the shells.

That shellfish is its food is somewhat questionable. As it
seeks its food over the sea, far from the shore, and also fre-
quents rivers and fresh-water lakes, it is more likely that fish
without shells is its ordinary food ; and this certainly will be
more easily managed, if not more quickly digested.

When it wants to dislodge what is laid up in the pouch, it
presses its bill against it, and part or all of what it contains is
brought out. To accomplish this purpose considerable effort
is required, but to this the bird is accustomed.

From this striking acl;ion has arisen the fable among the an-
cients, that the pelican pierced her own breast, and nourished
her young with her blood, and on that account it became as
celebrated for maternal, as the stork for filial, affection.

This story, like many others, rests upon no solid foundation ;
but the idea was natural enough to imperfect and astonished
observers ; and such, we suspect, has been the character, more
or less, of all the ancient naturalists.

The action, however, which is so remarkable in this bird,
shows the propriety and force of the Hebrew term by which it
is named, kath being the vomiter or vomiting bird.

The action of vomiting, or throwing up the contents of the
pouch or gizzard, &c., is common to this bird, and most of the
gull tribe, when they are pursued ; but, as the pelican does so
of its own accord, it more strictly deserves this title than any
of the gulls.

The pouch in question is not only to be considered as a re-
pository for the fish caught, but as a net for catching it. The
remark is made by Shaw the traveller, and if true the bird must
have the art of dilating, as well as placing it in such a manner
as to intercept the fish swimming around it.

The manner, however, in which the pelican fishes, does not
render this account very probable. For this purpose the bird

considered as the Pelican of the Moderns* 14?1

raises itself above the surface of the sea, and then flies along,
with one eye towards the water, till it sees a fish near the sur-
face. Instantly it darts down upon it with astonishing swift-
ness, " seizes upon it with unerring certainty, and stores it up
in its pouch." It rises again as before, and repeats the
same manoeuvres, till it has got a sufficient quantity. It
now retires to the shore, and at leisure devours the fruits of
its industry. As it digests quickly, it has generally to fish
more than once in the course of the day. At night it rests a
little way from the shore, its head being supported by its breast.
In this posture it remains, till hunger prompts it to break its
repose.

Thus it passes its life in a kind of dozing indolence when
not fishing. Nothing but the call of hunger can rouse it into
action : and as from its size it mounts into the air with diffi-
culty, it would never make the attempt but for the removal of
its hunger.

Altogether the pelican is very stupid. When sitting on its
eggs, it suffers them to be taken from under it without making
opposition. At least it manifests no other concern than merely
pecking the person that removes them.

To the kath being the pelican, in Psal. cii. 7., Shaw objects
that it is described as a bird of the wilderness, and that being
a water fowl, it would starve in a wilderness in which fish was
not to be found. To this objection it may be answered, that
what are called wildernesses, in Asiatic and African coun-
tries, are destitute neither of rivers nor lakes. Ptolemy
places three lakes in Marmarica, which is an extremely desert
region ; and the Israelites, when marching through the deserts
of Arabia, met with the waters of Marah, and the fountains
of Elim.

It, indeed, may be laid down as an established fact, that
however desert any region may be, if it have mountains, it
will have lakes and rivers. To this purpose may be quoted a
very pertinent passage from Jerome, noticed by Martinius and
Merrick, in which the pelican is said to live " in solitudine
Nili fluminis," in the solitude of the river Nile ; and as this river
winds through desolate tracts the prophet Amos is perfectly
justified in calling it " the river of the wilderness."

It may be remarked that Damir, quoted by Bochart, asserts
that the onocrotalus does not always remain in the water, but
often flies far from it, and might not its monstrous pouch be
given for this among other purposes, that neither itself nor its
young ones might want food, when it was at a distance from
the water?

L 3

142 The Kath considered as the Pelican.

Hence has arisen among naturalists the supposition of two
species, or rather varieties, of white pelican, the one living in
deserts, and the other on the banks of rivers, or the margin of
lakes ; but now it seems to be the general opinion that there is
no ground whatever for such a supposition.

The pelican is large among the feathered race, greatly
exceeding the ordinary goose in size, or, as Edwards, in his
History ^ Birds, asserts " it is double the bigness of the largest
swan." Its bill is long, and hooked at the end ; its colour
white, inclining to yellow on the neck, with black feathers
along the middle of the back ; its voice harsh and disagreeable ;
and its toes connected with a web.

From the same respectable authority we learn that the peli-
can inhabits the greatest part of the old world ; that it is found
in climates far north and south, as well as in all the interme-
diate latitudes ; that it is not uncommon in Russia, abounds
in Egypt, and even reaches the Cape of Good Hope. It has
been seen, though very rarely, in Great Britain. That it was
to be met with in the land of Canaan, the authority of holy
writ declares, and modern travellers still bear witness that it
is very frequent in Western Asia.

We have not heard what kind of flesh this bird possesses,
nor whether any use has been made of its feathers. In the
absence of correct information, the flesh and feathers of the
heron and crane, or rather of the gull or gannet, will afford
a good criterion for judging of the fleshy and feathers of the
pelican.

Being a large bird, and requiring much range of water to
supply its food, it is probably rather scarce, and by many peo-
ple must be viewed rather as a curiosity than put to any use.
Of course it will be oftener found in a menagery than seen
flying over our heads, or rising from the fens or lakes.

A print of it may be seen in Scheuchzer's Physica Sacra,
plate ccxlvi., and we have ourselves seen the original in a col-
lection of live animals, carried through the country for show.

It belongs to the order Palmipedes, or birds that are web-
footed, frequent the waters of the ocean, as well as rivers and
lakes, live on fish, and are good at swimming.

The nest of the common pelican is deep, and a foot and a
half in diameter. It consists of sedges, but is lined on the
inside with soft grass. The bird builds it in the marshy and
uncultivated places of islands rather than of continents, and
lays two or more white eggs.

Notices of British Snipes. {'^ 143

Art. VI. Descriptive and Historical Notices of British Snipes,
By H. V. D.
Sir,
I HIGHLY approve the plan of your Magazine, and regard
it as a useful medium of collecting and recording the observ-
ations and intelligence, both of scientific naturalists, and ob-
servers of nature, in various parts of the kingdom. By these
means the science of natural history may be much benefited,
and the researches of the naturalist much promoted; many
errors may thus be corrected, and valuable facts established.
The particular kind of communication I should recommend
in the zoological department of your undertaking would be
complete natural histories of particular species or families of
animals. The accurately noting down the arrival and depar-
ture of the migratory birds (as proposed in your Perennial
Calendar of Nature, p. 80. of your First Number) will help to
elucidate the mystery attendant upon our periodical visitants.
In aid of your useful plan I will now proceed to offer you an
attempt at the history of the Common Snipe, and its two con-
geners, the Jack and Solitary Snipe, according to my observ-
ation and experience, as a naturalist and sportsman, in the
eastern part of the county of Norfolk. The plan I propose
to pursue, in this communication, is to begin with their first
arrival here in the spring months ; then to trace them through
the breeding season, to the arrival and departure of the multi-
tudes which cover our marshes in the latter part of autumn.

Some few individuals remain with us during the winter
months, if unaccompanied with severe frosts, in which latter
case they all invariably quit our extensive tract of marshes
to find food and shelter in warmer climes and open springs.
In the early part of February a few return to this district,
being regulated in their emigration by the state of the tem-
perature, and by the quarter whence the wind blows. Their
arrival is delayed by the prevalence of east and north-easterly
winds ; but should warm genial air, accompanied with south-
west winds, at this time prevail, they will arrive in greater
numbers, and at an earlier period. I am convinced, from the
observation of several years, that their return is much regu-
lated by the state of the atmospheric temperature, inasmuch
as that return is consistent with the flowering of certain wild
plants, which is retarded or forwarded precisely as the spring
happens to be cold or warm. For instance, in the latter parts
of the month of February the little Z)raba verna is seen opening
its flowers on old walls and banks with a southern exposure ;
at that time I have invariably observed that a few snipes (the ad-
vanced guard of the main body) are to be found in our marshes.

L 4

144« Descriptive and Historical Notices

When I notice (about the second week in March) the /Ra-
nunculus Ficaria, and the ^lola odorata in blossom, I am then
confident of finding diversion in the pursuit of snipe-shooting,
By attending to these coincidences, a Norfolk sportsman will
rarely be disappointed in his expectation of amusement at this
time of the year, if (as before observed) a west or south-west
wind should prevail. I have noted their return, in some years
(as in 1825), as early as the last week in February; and, in some
years (as in 1826), the arrival of the greater body has been
as late as the last week in March. The usual time, however,
for their principal remigration may be stated to take place
from about the 14th of March to the end of the month.

The greater proportion of these spring visitants soon take
their departure for the more northern latitudes, which is expe-
dited by the same south-west wind which brought them here, and
equally retarded by a wind blowing from the opposite quarter.
Many remain to breed upon our Norfolk marshes, for which
purpose they select such as cattle have been depastured upon,
in preference to those marshes which are reserved for mowing.
The period of pairing commences early in April, at which
time the male snipe serenades his mate with two distinct notes,
differing as widely from each other as from the cry they utter
at other times. The one note may be compared to the repe-
tition of the word " tinker, tinker," uttered in a sharp shrill
tone, as the bird ascends in his flight : the other, uttered as he
descends, is somewhat similar to the bleating of a lamb, only
in a deeper tone, and accompanied with a violent vibration of
the wings.

The nest is formed not unlike that of the lapwing, being
composed of coarse grass. The female generally lays four
eggs (rarely five), placed with their small ends together in the
centre of the nest. The eggs are smaller than those of the
lapwing, of a green colour, marked with spots of light and
darker brown. I cannot state with accuracy either the period
of the incubation of the common snipe, or the exact time
when the young are excluded from the egg. As a sportsman,
I can only inform you that I have this year killed young
snipes, strong upon wing, as early as the last week in May ;
but in other years seldom before the 6th of June.

The Jack Snipe has been known (though very rarely) to
breed on our marshes. I have not had an instance of the
Solitary Snipe's nest being found in this county.

In the latter part of July, or early in August, the snipes,
old and young, quit their breeding marshes in common with
other fen birds, and betake themselves, in family parties of six
or seven in a flock, to marshes which have been recently mown.
In the latter part of August, we have a much greater number

I

of British Snipes.' 145

of snipes on our marshes than were bred in the neighbour-
hood. This I have constantly regarded as a congregating and
migration of the snipes bred in the northern part of this kingdom.

On the 26th of August 1825, the writer of this article
killed a specimen of the »Sc61opax major, and last year he
killed one on each of the following days in September, namely,
17th, 24th, and 27th, and on the latter day he killed a Jack
Snipe, the first he had seen in the season. With regard to
the habits of the »Sc61opax major, I have to observe, that, in
the language of sportsmen, it lies closer than the common
snipe, being difficult to flush, and, in rising, rarely emits any
cry ; its flight is heavy, resembling that of the woodcock, and
is continued for a short distance only. The early arrival of
the ^Scolopax major has sometimes induced me to imagine that
this species may breed in our island, although I have never
heard of an instance recorded of its nest having been found.

The first arrival of the snipes, as I have before observed, I
regard as the emigration of our home birds. During the last
week in September and the first in October (especially if at-
tended with strong gales from the east and north-east), we
expect the second arrival. These I have always considered
as bred in foreign countries. At this period they sometimes
come to us in vast quantities, but are wary and difficult of
approach. They rise in flocks, emitting their shrieking cry,
and alarming others in their flight. The marshes they mostly
frequent at this time, are those on which neat stock or bullocks
have been feeding during the summer months ; the grubs of
5carabae^i, and other insects bred in the dung of cattle, af-
fording them abundant supply of their favourite food. At this
time they are accompanied by the Jack Snipe, whose haunts
are wet marshes, with uneven and mossy bottoms, and the
borders of alder rows.

In the latter end of October, and during the month of No-
vember, great numbers frequent the broads (or river lakes)
with which this country abounds. They rest on beds of wa-
tercresses, and the broken remains of the 5cirpus lacustris
'(which had previously been cut by the marshmen, under
the name of holders, for chair bottoms), and the Jypha lati-
f6lia {vulgo Gladdon), and A^parganium ramosum [vulgo Black-
weed), which are used by coopers to put between the staves
of casks. On the floating remains of these and other aquatic
plants they lie in great numbers, and are to be approached
only by the means of a boat. In the early part of a morning,
when the whiteness of a hoar frost renders the snipes visible,
the marshmen secrete themselves in a small boat, behind a
neighbouring reed bush, and shoot at them sitting upon these
broken weeds, and have sometimes the good fortune to kill

146

Descriptive and Historical Notices

many at a shot. In the latter part of November they gradu-
ally take their departure, and, except a few stragglers, are
not to be met with before the months of February and March
in the following spring.

I cannot give you much certain information respecting the
food of snipes. I have killed them with small red worms, with
grubs of beetles, and small shell snails in their mouths. On
examining the contents of their gizzards, little is to be disco-
vered of their food, which is speedily comminuted by the pow-
erful operation of that muscle. Pebbles, sand, and small
dark seeds (apparently of a Juncus), are usually found in the
gizzard. The seeds are probably intended to break the food,
more than to constitute nourishment. There is likewise vege-
table fibre contained in the stomach.

Here, Mr. Editor, my narrative must close, and I invite
naturalists and sportsmen in the southern and western parts
of this kingdom, to take up the history of the genus, where I
am under the necessity of closing it, and communicate it
through the medium of your Magazine.

I shall conclude these observations with some useful re-
marks, external and anatomical, which a medical friend of
mine has furnished me with, regarding the specific differences
of this natural family.

aSco'lopax.

Anatomical Character, — Each species has a gall bladder,
two cae^ca {Jig. 33. a a\ and an appendix (h) situated a little
higher up the intestines.

Tibia feathered to the Knee,

Sc. rusttcola[Wood-
coc^).(/^. 32.)— Tail
feathers 1 2, four trans-
verse black marks at
the back part of the
head, with three paler
ones.

Length, 13|in.
Length of bill, Sin.
Extent, 25 in.
Weight, 12 oz.

35 ^

^ ^ Anat, Char, Cae^ca two eighths of

^ — /^ o _ an inch long. The gizzard contained

^O O' ^ vegetable fibres of a green colour (very

much resembling moss), small black flat seeds, a pebble, and

sand.

of British Snipes.

147

Lcrwer Part of the Tibia naked.

Be, major {Solitary Snipe), {fg. 34.) — Tail feathers 16 ; the
five outermost white, barred wtih black. Belly, sides, and
thighs barred with triangular
black markings.
Length from the tip of the

bill to the end of the tail,

11^ in.
Length from the tip of the bill

to the end of the toes, 1 4^ in.
Length of bill, from 2^ in. to

2^ in.
Extent, 19 in.
"Weight from 7 to 7^ oz.

Anat. Char. Cse'ca ( fig. SB. a a) one eighth of an inch
a long. In the gizzard were skins of very

(3 — ^^ ■ — ^^ — • small grubs and fibres of roots ; in that

^ 55 of another, which had no food in it, the

inner membrane was lying in longitudinal rugae, each of which
was thickly beset with conical papillae, resembling rows of
teeth.

Sc. Gallindgo {Common Snipe), {fg. 36.) — Tail feathers 14.
Belly, sides, and thighs pure
head an orange-coloured
stripe, bordered on each side
with a black one.
Length to the end of the

tail, from \0\ in. to 11 J in.
Length to the end of the toes,

14 in.
Length of bill, from 2 J in. to

3iin.
Extent, from 16 in. to 17jin.
Weight, from 4 to 4^ oz.

Anat. Char. Cae^ca {fig. Si. a a) one
inch and a half long. The gizzard con-
tained small seeds, fibres of roots, and
pebbles.

Sc. Galltnula {Jack Snipe), (fg. 38.) — Tail feathers 12.
On the centre of the head^a black stripe, bordered on each

148 Natural History of Molluscous Animals : —

side with an orange-coloured

one.

Length to the end of the

tail, 9 in.
Length to the end of the toes,

10 in.
Length of bill, If in.
Extent, 14^ in.
Weight, 2 oz. 3 dr.

39 «' - Anat. Char, Cae'^ca (j%-. 39. a a) one

._ inch and three eighths long. The giz-
zard contained small shells, vegetable
fibres, and pebbles.
It is by such communications as the above, that in my opi-
nion your Magazine may be rendered most valuable.

I am, Sir, &c. H V. D.

Art. VII.

Sir,

The Natural History of Molluscous Animals,
Series of Letters. By G. J.

Letter 2. Indirect Benefits.

In a

You may often have heard it observed that living beings
form a continuous and uninterrupted chain,

lessening down

From Infinite Perfection to the brink
Of dreary nothing,"

from which no link can be removed without disordering the
uniformity of the whole. If applied, as is usually done, to the
external appearances or internal organisation of animals, the
comparison is not altogether correct; but none can be more
so if it is intended merely as an illustration of their mutual
dependence upon one another. This is so close and intimate
that we cannot calculate the probable effect of the annihilation
of even the most insignificant species. It might involve the
destruction of some other immediately dependent on it for the
supply of a necessary want; the extermination of this again
would be but the precursor of another's death, another still
would succeed and ruin would spread around until man him-
self fell in its embrace. In this view it may with great pro-
priety be said that

" Each shell, each crawling insect holds a rank
Important in the plan of Him, who framed

Indirect Benefits, 149

This scale of beings ; holds a rank, which lost

Would break the chain, and leave a gap behind

Which Nature's self would rue." .

One, and indeed the chief, chxumstance which binds ani-
mals so closely is, the dependence each has upon another for
a supply of necessary food. On contemplating this part of
creation we behold a scene of havoc and devastation per-
petually and every where going on, so that " there is not," as
Smellie has remarked, " perhaps a single species of ani-
mated beings, whose existence depends not, more or less,
upon the death and destruction of others." That this order
of things, however cruel it may appear to us, is subservient to
the good of the whole, cannot admit of any doubt ; and it is
my purpose, in the present letter, to convince you by some
detail of facts, that molluscous animals in this relation play
a not unimportant part. But, as it would be tedious to enu-
merate all or the greater portion of the animals to which they
furnish nutriment, we shall confine ourselves to those which
possess some peculiar interest, or which minister directly to
the luxuries or necessities of man.

To commence with quadrupeds. It is nothing surprising
that the different species of walrus, inhabitants of ocean,
should feed partly on shellfish, but perhaps you would not
expect to find among their enemies animals strictly terrestrial.
Yet the oran otang and the preacher monkey often descend to
the sea to devour what shellfish they may find strewed upon
the shores. The- former, according to Carreri Gemelli, feed
in particular on a large species of oyster, and fearful of insert-
ing their paws between the open valves, lest the oyster should
close and crush them, they first place a tolerably large stone
within the shell, and then drag out their victim with safety.
The latter are no less ingenious. Dampier saw several of
them take up oysters from the beach, lay them on a stone,
and beat them with another till they demolished the shells.
Wafer observed the monkeys in the Island of Gorgonia to
proceed in a similar manner * ; and those of the Cape of
Good Hope, if we are to credit La Loubere, perpetually
amuse themselves by transporting shells from the shore to the
tops of the mountains f, with the intention undoubtedly of
devouring them at leisure. Even the fox, when pressed by
hunger, will deign to eat muscles and other bivalves ; and the
raccoon, whose fur is esteemed by hatters next in value to that
of the beaver, when near the shore lives much on them, more

* Bingley's Animal Biography. ■

t BufFon's Nat. Hist. i. 221. English translation.

fc

150 Natural History of Molluscous Animals: —

particularly on oysters. We are told that it will watch the
opening of the shells, dexterously put in its paw, and tear out
the contents. Not, however, without danger, for sometimes,
we are assured, by a sudden closure, the oyster will catch the
thief, and detain him until he is drowned by the return of the
tide.* The story, I regret to say, appears somewhat apocry-
phal, for,

— - " nee lex est justior uUa,

Quam necis artifices arte perire sua," f

These are amusing facts ; the following, to the epicure at
least, may be equally interesting. In some parts of England
it is a prevalent and probably a correct opinion, that the
shelled-snails contribute much to the fattening of their sheep.
On the hill above Whitsand Bay in Cornwall, and in the
south of Devonshire, the Bulimus acutus Drap. (Jig, 40. a)
and the Helix virgata ( b ),
which are found there in vast
profusion, are considered to have ^gj:^^^
this good effect ; and it is indeed '"^^-^ -^
impossible that the sheep can
browse on the short grass of the places just mentioned, with-
out devouring a prodigious quantity of them, especially in
the night, or after rain, when the Bulimi and Helices ascend the
stunted blades.f " The sweetest mutton," says Borlase, " is
reckoned to be that of the smallest sheep, which feed on the
commons where the sands are scarce covered with the green
sod, and the grass exceedingly short; such are the towens or
sand hillocks in Piran Sand, Gwythien, Philac, and Senan-
green, near the Land's End, and elsewhere in like situations.
From these sands come forth snails of the turbinated kind,
but of different species, and all sizes from the adult to the
smallest just from the egg ; these spread themselves over the
plains early in the morning, and, whilst they are in ques,t of

* The following note is taken from BelPs Weekly Messenger, ioT Jan. 7.
1821. A tradesman of Plymouth, having lately placed some oysters in a
cupboard, was surprised at finding, in the morning, a mouse caught by the
tail, by the sudden collapsing of the shell. About forty years since at Ash-
burton, at the house of Mrs. Allridge, known by the name of the New
Inn, a dish of Wembury oysters was laid in a cellar. A large oyster soon
expanded its shell, and at the instant two mice pounced upon the " living
luxury," and were at once crushed between the valves The oyster, with
the two mice dangHng from its shell, was for a long time exhibited as
a curiosity. Carew,in his History of Cornwall, tells of an oyster that closed
on three mice. An apposite instance is also epigrammatically recorded in
the Greek Anthology.

f [«* There is no juster law, than that the contrivers of death should
perish in their own devices."]

t Mont. Test. Brit. p. 347. and 417.

Indirect Benefits, : 151

their own food among the dews, yield a most fattening nou-
rishment to the sheep." {Hist, of Cornwall, p. 286.)

Among birds the Mollusca have many enemies. Several of
the duck and gull tribes, as you might anticipate, derive at
least a portion of their subsistence from them. The pied
oyster-catcher receives its name from the circumstance of
feeding on oysters and limpets (Patella vulgaris), and its bill
is so well adapted to the purpose of forcing asunder the valves
of the one, and of raising the other from the rock, that " the
Author of Nature," as Derham says, " seems to have framed
it purely for that use." Several kinds of crows likewise
prey upon shellfish, and the manner in which they force the
strong hold of their victims is very remarkable. A friend of
Dr. Darwin's saw above a hundred crows, on the northern
coast of Ireland, at once, preying upon muscles. Each crow
took a muscle up in the air twenty or forty yards high, and let
it fall on the stones, and thus broke the shell. Many autho-
rities might be adduced in corrobation of this statement. In
Southern Africa so many of the Testacea are consumed by
these and other birds, as to have given rise to an opinion that
the marine shells found buried in the distant plains, or in
the sides of the mountains, have been carried there by their
agency, and not, as is generally supposed, by eruptions of the
,sea. Mr. Barrow, who is of this opinion, teJls us, in con-
firmation of it, that " there is scarcely a sheltered cavern in
the sides of the mountains that arise immediately from the
sea, where living shellfish may not be found any day of the
year. Crows even, and vultures, as well as aquatic birds, de-
tach the shellfish from the rocks, and mount with them into
the air : shells thus carried are said to be frequently found on
the very summit even of the Table Mountain. In one cavern
at the point of Mussel Bay," he adds, " I disturbed some
thousands of birds, and found as many thousands of living
shellfish scattered on the surface of a heap of shells, that for
aught I know, would have filled as many thousand wag-
gons." * The story, therefore, of the ancient philosopher
whose bald pate one of these unlucky birds mistook for a
stone, and dropped a shell upon it, thereby killing at once
both, is not so tramontane as to stumble all belief

Land shells furnish a few birds with part of their sus-
tenance, and the principal of these are two well known song-
sters, the blackbird and the thrush. They, y

■ " whose notes

Nice finger'd Art must emulate in vain,"

* Travels in Southern Africa, i. 8. 4to. 1806.

1 62 'Natural Histcn'y of Molluscous Animals : —

depend in great measure, when winter has destroyed their
summer food, on the more common species of Hehces, espe-
cially on H. nemoralis. These they break very dexterously
by reiterated strokes against some stone ; and it is not uncom-
mon to find a great quantity of fragments of shells together,
as if brought to one particular stone for this very purpose. *

Fishes are stupid animals, and incapable apparently of
planning any stratagem by which they might surprise the un-
heeding conch. You might imagine, therefore, that our
favourites, " in their grotto works enclosed," were sufficiently
secure from their hostile attempts. It is not so. They are
the frequent victims, not indeed of the cunning, but of the in-
discriminating and almost insatiable appetite, of fishes ; and
from the stomach of a cod or flounder you may procure many
a shell, not otherwise so easily attainable. When indeed we
call to recollection the vast and incalculable numbers of mol-
luscous animals which crawl on the bottom, or swim in the
bosom, of the ocean, and the voracious habits of the swarms of
fish which every where traverse it, we may reasonably conclude
that their utility in this respect in the economy of nature is
very great, and beyond human ken. And not only do the
shellfish nourish, but it has been presumed, or perhaps
proved, that they impart a peculiar flavour to at least some of
their devourers, which greatly enhanced their value in the
esteem of Roman epicures. Thus Martial sings

" "^^ " No praise, no price a gilthead e'er will take.
Unfed with oysters of the Lucrine lake :" t

and, according to Pliny, the mullets which savoured of their
food were the most prized — " laudatissimi conchylium sa-
piunt:j:;" and these, as saith honest Izaak Walton, "they
would purchase at rates, rather to be wondered at than be-
lieved."

I must here digress a litde, to advert to the more direct
utility of the MoUusca in furnishing to the fisherman the
means of enticing to his snare the hapless victims of his art. On
every coast the shellfish peculiar to it are extensively employed
for this purpose, but we may confine ourselves to those used by
our own fishermen. At Salcomb on the coast of South Devon
the Pholas dactylus is found in great abundance, and is used

* Montagu, Ornithological Dictionary,
f Hence Pope in his Satires^

" Let me extol a cat on oysters fed j
rU have a party at the Bedford-head."

t [« The most prized savour of shell-fish." ]

Indirect Benefitsi

153

with success. Many boat-loads of a river muscle (U^iio mar-
garitifera Turton) are taken from the mouth of the Ythen, a
river not far from Aberdeen, and employed in the fisheries of
cod and ling established near Peterhead. The clam (Pecten
opercularis) and the great muscle (Modiola vulgaris) are re-
sorted to in other parts of the kingdom, and are eagerly
sought after as a bait for cod ; and you are aware that ipany
thousands of limpets (Patella vulgaris) and of the common
muscle (ik/ytilus edulis) are daily torn from the rocks, to en-
snare the common fishes of our coasts, and thus contribute
materially to add one more luxury to the tables of the rich,
and to give to the poor a cheap and wholesome diet. The
large whelk (i5uccinum undatum) and a species of rock-shell
(Miirex despectus Mont.) may likewise be enumerated among
our ordinary baits; but the most valuable of the class is cer-
tainly the Zoligo vulgaris {Jig. 41.), or, as it is called by our
fishermen, the sleeve or hoe-fish.
With this animal one half of all the
cod taken at Newfoundland is caught.
It appears there in throngs about the
beginning of August, and seems to
succeed to the capelin (the fish with
which the other half is taken), as if
to supply, immediately, provision to
the cod, the traffic in which " brings
wealth to individuals and strength to
the state." It begins to retire from
the coast in September. " During
violent gales of winds, hundreds of
tons of them are often thrown up to-
gether in beds on the flat beaches,
the decay of which spreads an in^
tolerable effluvium around. It is
made no use of except for bait ; and
as it maintains itself in deeper water
than the capelin, instead of nets being used to take it, it is
jigged, — a jigger being a number of hooks radiating from a
fixed centre, made for the purpose. The cod is in best con-
dition after having fed on it." *

* Edin. New Phil. Jour. No. i. p. 37. The editor remarks : " The
cuttle-fish occurs in abundance in many of our estuaries and coasts, but has
hitherto been considered as of no value. Now that it is known to form an
excellent bait for cod, and even for other fishing, it is not to be doubted
that it will in future, in this country, be used with equal advantage and
profit as a bait for the capture of our cod, ling, &c."

Vol. II. — No. 7. m

154? Natural Histo)^ of Molluscans Animals,

Crowds of the inferior animals certainly feed on the Mollusca'^
but as there is little interest in the detail, a very few examples
will here suffice. Two small leeches (//irudo bioculata and
complanata) often wage successful war against the fresh-water
snails so abundant in our ditches ; and another species [H.
hyalina), not so cruel in disposition, draws its nourishment
from the sanies which flows from the Planorbis carinatus.
Its calcareous envelope is no protection to the muscle against
the wiles of the Nymphon grossipes ; thousands of littoral
shells are devoured by the sea anemones ( Actmise) ; and the
common star-fish knows so well how to force the oyster from
his close retreat *, and destroys such numbers of them, that
every dredger who observes one of their enemies, and does not
tread on and kill it, or throw it upon the shore, is liable ta
some penalty.

As ultimately connected with our subject, I must now inform
you that to some animals among the inferior tribes, shells afford
a house and a place of refuge, as necessary to them as either
air or food* The turbinated univalves become, after the death
of their proper owners, the habitations of the soldier or hermit
crabs (Pagurus Leach\ whose naked and slender abdomens,
covered merely with a skin of a delicate texture, would, with-
out this foreign covering, be crushed to pieces in the strife of
waves and rocks to which they are exposed, or devoured by
the enemies which surround them. A singular species of
soft worm, or Siphunculus, discovered by Mr. Montagu, inha-
bits old and worn specimens of the ^Strombus pes Pelecani
Lin,, whose aperture it closes up with agglutinated sand, leav-
ing only a small round hole, within which it lives in security ;
and another species not yet described, though common on the
coasts of Scotland, takes possession of the common tooth-shell
(Dentalium entalis), and secures the aperture in the same man-
ner. The beautiful and delicate Paper Nautilus, with whose
interesting history you must be, at least, partially acquainted,
is not navigated over the surface of its native ocean by its own
architect, but by a species or Ocythoe, or cuttle-fish, its para-
sitic inhabitant. This surprising fact was long disputed
amongst naturalists ; but the specimens brought to England
by the gentlemen of the unfortunate Congo expedition, have
enabled Dr. Leach and others to give it very great probabi-

* " The prickly star creeps on with fell deceit.
To force the oyster from his close retreat.
When gaping lids their widen'd void display,
The watchful star thrusts in a pointed ray.
Of all its treasures spoils the rifled case,
And empty shells the sandy hillocks grace.'* Jones,

Linnean System of Plants, 155

lity, if not to demonstrate its truth. Mr. Cranch tells us, that,
having placed two living specimens in a vessel of sea-water,
the animals very soon protruded their arms, and swam on and
below the surface, having all the actions of the common cuttle
of our seas. By means of their suckers they adhered firmly
to any substance with which they came in contact, and when
sticking to the sides of the basin the shell might easily be
withdrawn from the animals. They had the power of retiring
completely within the shell, and of leaving it entirely.* One
individual quitted its shell, and lived several hours, swimming
about, and showing no inclination to return into it; and others
left the shells as they were taken up in the net. The observa-
tions of Sir Everard Home are, perhaps, no less decisive,
confirmed, as they have been, by subsequent naturalists. He
found the ova of the animal caught in the Argonauta (so the
shell is known in science) to differ from those of every other
testaceous animal that lives in water, in having a very large
yolk to supply the young with nourishment after they are
hatched, and in not being enclosed in a camerated nidus, or
chambers of a peculiar kind, which are a necessary defence in
the period between the Q,gg being hatched and the young
acquiring its shell.f I shall leave you to your own reflections
upon this fact. It is not the least remarkable of the marvel-
lous works with which Infinite Wisdom has stored this world.

" Wonderful, indeed, are all His works,
Pleasant to know, and worthiest to be all
Had in remembrance always with delight."

I am, &c. G. I.

Art. VIII. An Introductory Vietv of the Linnean System of
Plants. By Miss Kent, Authoress of Flora Domestical Sylvan
Sketches^ &c.

(Continued f?'om Vol. I. p, 436.)

Leaves assume an endless variety of forms and combina-
tions ; some are shaped like an egg, some like a heart, some
like a fiddle, some like a hatchet, &c. Others are com-
pound ; composed of many small leaves called leaflets, which,

* Aristotle knew that the animal of his iVautiluswas not naturally con-
nected with the shell. {Be Nat. Animal., lib. iv. cap. ii. sect. 54.)

f Tuckey's Narrative of an Expedition to the Zaire, appendices ii, and
iii. Mr. Broderip, in an interesting essay on this subject in No. xiii. of
the Zoological Journal, considers the question still undecided; but his
observations upon the whole, in my opinion, support the view I have
taken.

M 2

156

Introductory View of the

being arranged in various ways, form the pinnate leaf, the
ternate leaf, the quinate, the stellate or verticillate, &c. &c.
Suppose a stalk to have several leaves at each side, growing
at regular distances, in pairs, this is a pinnate (winged) leaf
( fig, 42. a) ; if the stalk terminate in a leaflet, it will be termed
pinnate with an odd leaflet
( h). Imagine one of the lat-
ter leaves to have a very long
stalk, with similar pinnate leaves
set on each side of it ( c ),
this is a hipinnate (twice-
winged) leaf; these being again
arranged in the same manner,
upon a third stalk, form a tri-
pinnate leaf {d) ', and, in pro-
portion as this is repeated, the
leaf will become compound, de-
compound, superdecompound,
&c. &c. It frequently hap-
pens (as in Jig, 42. b) that the
leaflets towards the end of the
leaf are smaller than those at
the base, which gives the leaf
somewhat of a triangular ap-
pearance; the more conspi-
cuous in proportion as it is more compound. The um-
belliferous (umbel-bearing) plants, which compose nearly the
whole of the second order of the class Pentandria, have, with
few exceptions, pinnate leaves, more or less compound.

The British Flora possesses only eight genera in this order,
that are not included in the natural family called Umbelliferae
or Umbellatae. Of this number are the beet (^eta), of which
the root is eaten in salads (it contains a great quantity of sugar,
which may be extracted and manufactured for use) ; the glass-
wort (Salsola), used in the manufacture of glass ; the elm ( C/1-
mus); and the gentian (Gen\\dna\ a genus remarkable for the
brilliant blue colour of its flowers, and the bitterness of its
roots. " As bitter as gentian," is a common phrase. The
root of a species of gentian growing on the Alps, and other
mountains on the Continent (G. lutea), is the bitter chiefly
used in medicine.

The umbelliferous plants agree in having their flowers supe»
rior and pentapetaloiiSy and in producing a naked fruit of two
seeds slightly attached together. Many of them are so much
alike in their general character, as not easily to be distin-
guished. Hence mistakes have occurred ; the more important,

Linnean System of Plants^ lit I

as some of the plants are aromatic and edible, others fetid ;
and poisonous. It is given as a general rule, that such as
grow in high dry situations are wholesome, while those grow-
ing in low and marshy situations are poisonous ; but this rule
is by no means to be depended upon as infallible, though it
holds good in nine cases out of ten. As this is a subject of no
small importance, I shall speak at some length of the more
dangerous among them, and of the characters by which they
may be distinguished. Several of the umbelliferous plants
have a few leaves at the base, either of the partial or the uni-^
versal umhel^ or sometimes of both. Some botanists call these
leaves bracteas^ a name given to a leaf differing from the general
foliage of a plant, and attendant upon the flowers ; but Linnaeus
considered them, collectively, as a species of calyx, and called it
an involticrum, from the Latin involvo, to wrap. By the presence,
or absence, the number, form, and situation of these leaves,
several of the plants may be distinguished. There are three
genera, one aromatic, and two extremely virulent; of which
the partial umbels have three bracteas, on one side only. In
one of these, named fooPs parsley (^thiisa Cynapium), be-
cause, not very wisely, mistaken for the true parsley, they are
long and pendulous ; in hemlock (C6nium maculatum), they
are short, narrow, and spreading outwards, while the bracteas
of the universal umbel bend downwards ; in coriander (Corian-
drum sativum), they are linear lanceolate ( fig. 43.),
and those of the universal umbel are very few, if any.
The first two of these plants are deadly poison ;
the latter, though the fresh plant is fetid, and pro-
bably deleterious, produces an aromatic and whole-
some seed, which is well known. I might men-
tion other distinctive characters ; but, as these are
<^uite decisive, it is better not to oppress the
memory with others, which might rather tend
to confuse than to enlighten those who desire to remem-
ber them. Another very deadly plant of this tribe is the
hemlock water dropwort (Q^^nanthe crocata), which may be
known by a poisonous orange-coloured juice exuding from
every part of it, when bruised ; from the root, more espe-
cially. Even the scent of this plant has been known to occa-
sion a sense of giddiness in the head. Water hemlock (Cicilta
vir6sa) grows in ditches, and on the banks of rivers. The uni^
versal umbels have but one or two, seldom any, bracteas ; the
partial umbels have several, narrow, taper-pointed, and of un-
equal size ; the leaves are biternate, and the leaflets serrated
(notched like a saw) at the edges, the points appearing some-
what white and withered. Before we proceed, it may be well

M 3

158 Introductory View of the

to observe that a ternate leaf is composed of three leaflets set
together, usually at right angles
(/^.44. a) I a hiternate leaf,
of three ternate leaves, disposed
in the same manner ( h ). An-
other dangerous plant of this
order is the water parsnep (^Sium
nodifl6rum), which grows in
close companionship with the ^mmr to i
watercress; and, when not in ^^^T fj
flower, so nearly resembles that

plant, as to have been frequently mistaken for it. It is not
a week since I detected this poisonous herb in fellowship
with the watercress, in a quantity purchased for a family of
children. The watercress is of a darker green, and sometimes
dashed with brown ; the leaflets are of a rounder form, more
especially the odd one at the end, which is larger than the rest,
and their edges are irregularly waved. The water parsnep is
of a uniform light green, without any tinge of brown ; the leaf-
lets are longer and narrower than those of the watercress,
tapering at each end, and serrated at their edges. The best
way to become acquainted with the difference, and to obtain a
confident knowledge of them, is to examine them in the month
of July, when the flowers of both are present to decide be-
tween them. I have not specified all the dangerous plants
of this tribe ; our limits will only admit of my noticing the
peculiar characters of the most dangerous.

Among the edible plants of this tribe are the carrot, parsnep,
fennel, caraway, parsley, celery, &c. A foreigner of the family,
is the giant fennel, or i^erula, of high renown as the vehicle in
which Hesiod records Prometheus to have brought down fire
from heaven.. He is said, too, to have been the ijiventor of
the steel by which fire is struck from flint; metaphorically,
therefore, he might be said to have brought fire from heaven.
The sailors of the Levant frequently convey this element, from
one island to another, in the stem of the i^erula. The pith it
contains is used by the Sicilians as tinder ; and all these facts
connected, give a sort of poetic truth to Hesiod's story.

The very nauseous but useful drug, Assafoetida, is a resinous
exudation from a species of i^erula, growing among certain
fountains in Persia; and, fetid as this drug is, it is much
esteemed, in many parts of the East, as a seasoning for various
dishes. It is said that the Banian Indians, who eat no animal
food, scarcely eat any thing that is not seasoned with it ; and
6ven rub their mouths with it, as a provocative to the appetite.
If it were done as a mortification and a penance, we could readily

Linnean System of Plants. 159

conceive why this delicate drug was used in preference to the
fine aromatics of the East ; but it is not much more extraor-
dinary than that the Cossacks should drink train-oil; and,
after all the astonishment we feel at the strange taste of these
Indians, what shall we say to the fact, that this very drug,
which has the scent and the flavour of putrid onions mingled
with soot, is used by British cooks, occasionally, as a substi-
tute for garlic I — in very small quantities, it is true ; but still
it is used.

Of the third order, Trigynia, we have five British genera ;
among which we may reckon the elder tree (iSambiicus nigra),
a tree of infinite value to the peasantry of some remote coun-
tiy-places ; it supplies the place both of the surgeon and tlie
druggist ; it furnishes ointments, infusions, and decoctions, for
all ailments, cuts, or bruises. Every part of it serves some
useful purpose : the wood, pith, bark, leaves, buds, flowers,
and fruit. Its narcotic scent makes it unwholesome to sleep
under its shade; and if corn or other vegetables be smartly
whipped with the branches, they will communicate a sufficient
portion of this scent to keep off* the insects by which so many
plants are frequently blighted. An infusion of the leaves,
poured over plants, will preserve them from caterpillars also :
so that this tree does as much good by its noxious, as its agree-
able, qualities. The wine made from the berries is well known ;
but, perhaps, it may not be so generally known that the buds
make an excellent pickle. A water distilled from the flowers
rivals buttermilk itself as a rural cosmetic. There is another
species, the dwarf elder (»Sambiicus jG'bulus), which possesses,
in a heightened degree, all the noxious qualities of the common
elder, without any of its virtues, but that of keeping other
nuisances at a distance. This fetid plant was supposed, by
our ancestors, to have sprung from the blood of their enemies,
the Danes, whence it obtained the English name of Danewort.

The bladder-nut (Staphylea pinnata) belongs to this order.
It is an elegant shrub, by no means justly appreciated. It is.
called bladder-nut, from the hard fruit, which is contained in
a large inflated capsule. The nuts were formerly used by the
monks, as beads to count their prayers by.

The French tamarisk ( Zamarix gallica), a delicate shrub,
with pink flowers, is, notwithstanding its specific appellation,
a native of England, growing chiefly on the southern coast.
The salt flavour of its leaves renders it a grateful food to
sheep ; but we would not willingly bestow it upon them, for it
is not sufficiently common to admit of so lavish a use of it.
The. genus Fiburnum is better known by a foreign species,
than by those which are indigenous of the country. We al?

M 4

160 Introductory FieW of the

hide to the laurustinus (F. 7'inus) of the south of Europe,
which displays its white flowers even amid the whiter snow.
One of the British species, too, is known rather by a variety
than by its common mode of growth : the Guelder rose {V,
CXpulus) bears its flowers in cymes, like the elder tree ; but
the flowers are larger, and those in the outer part of the cyme
are larger than those in the centre : the variety usually culti-
vated, and called the snow-ball tree, has the whole cyme com-
posed of the larger flowers (which are barren), and crowded
so close, as to form a round ball. We should hesitate whether
to prefer this variety when in blossom ; and certainly, when
the blossoms fall, it is inferior to the common Guelder rose,
since it wants the bright red berry, which is as handsome to
the eye, as it is nauseous to the taste. There is another na-
tive species, called the wayfaring tree (Fiburnum Xantana).
The leaves of both assume a deep red colour in the au-
tumn; and it has been observed that this change is very
common in the British species of such genera as are chiefly
American.

The sumach, or poison oak (jRhus), is a large foreign genus
of this order, powerfully poisonous. From the .Rhus vernix,
or varnish tree, is obtained the fine varnish of the Japanese ;
and another, well known in England by the name of copal var-
nish, is produced by the JRhus copallina. The smooth sumach
(jRhus glabra) is common in our shrubberies : the stem and
branches are clothed with a thick and soft scarlet down ; the
leaves are pztmate ; the leaflets large, serrated, and elegantly
graduated, from the length of four inches at the base, to two
inches, or less, at the apex ; in the autumn they assume a fine
crimson. Several of the species are so poisonous as to be
very dangerous neighbours ; and it is asserted that a swarm
of bees, alighting upon a branch of the varnish tree, was
instantly destroyed by its effluvia only.

Of the fourth order there are but two genera; of the first
of which, Britain possesses one species ; the grass of Parnassus.
The fifth order also is a small one, of which there are but
three genera in the British Flora : but among them is one
species worth whole genera of common plants. It is a slight
little plant, about two feet high, with lanceolate leaves, and
bearing a panicle of very pretty, blue, veiny flowers. To this
plant we are indebted for that most exquisite of luxuries,
linen, and for an article perhaps yet more valuable, paper.
It is the Z/lnum usitatissimum, the common flax. An oil is
• pressed from the seeds (called line or tin seed), which is used
by artists; and the seeds themselves are applied to many
medicinal purposes ; but the plant is chiefly cultivated for the

Linnean System of Plants.

161

bark. In the preparation of flax it is necessary to macerate
and steep it in water ; which renders the water so poisonous
to cattle, that an act was passed, in the reign of Henry the
Eighth, prohibiting the steeping of flax in any public stream
or pond.

The sixth order, Hexagynia, contains only one genus, sun-
dew (Drosera); formerly ranged, very improperly, in the
fifth. The leaves of this plant are set with a number of red
hairs, bending inwards, which discharge each a drop of viscid
acrid fluid : these little globules, shining in the sun, explain
the appellation of sun-dew. Insects are frequently imprisoned
by these hairs, and by their juice. Some persons believe that
they are irritable, and contract when touched, so as to hold
their little prisoners more securely.

The seventh order, Polygynia, consists of three genera,
plants of no great note, of which Britain furnishes one species,
the mousetail (Myosurus minimus). It may generally be
observed, throughout all the classes, that the pistils seldom
exceed the stamens in number.

Having thus cursorily considered the fourth and fifth classes,
we will examine one or two plants attentively, before we pro-
ceed further. Fig, 45. represents a sprig
of a plant in its perfect state, together
with the several parts of the dissected
flower ; and I beg of the reader to
compare these parts with the passages re-
ferring to them. Let us suppose that we
have just gathered this plant; how shall
we ascertain what it is ? The first thing
to be considered is the class ; and, to find
this, we must count the stamens : there
are four ; the class is Tetrandria, We
must now see how many pistils there are ;
and as the pistils usually remain in the
calyx, and the stamens are attached
to the corolla, we will remove the corolla, that we may not
confuse them together. The corolla comes off" in one piece,
bringing the stamens with it (Jb) : the flower is monopeta^
lous. There is one style remaining in the calyx : it has two
germs (below the calyx), between which the style is inserted
(c) ; but this, we are to remember, is but one pistil, since
we reckon from the base of the style, and many pistils have
a plurality of germs: the order, therefore, is Monogy?iia*
We will now turn to this class and order in the English Flora
(a book which no botanist or botanical student should be with-
out), and we shall find there twenty-three genera; but. these

IBS' Introdzictory Fiew of the

are ranged under five different heads, or sections, by which
our enquiry will be greatly facilitated. The first section has
** flowers, monopetalous, superior, and single-seeded." Our
plant, as we have seen, has two seeds. The second section
has " flowers moiiopetalous, superior, and two-seeded." The
plant is in this section ; and, by attention to these characters, we
have reduced the number of genera, in which we have to seek
it, from twenty-three to four. We had before us one plant, the
name and character of which was to be discovered among fifty
thousand ; and, within a few minutes, we have (thanks to the
illustrious Swede) been able to reduce that number within this
small compass ! When we think of this, we cannot suf-
ficiently admire the accurate judgment and patient investigation
which earned for us this power. Nor is it to Linnaeus alone
that we are indebted, since, though he was the founder of this
admirable system, the number of plants classed by him has
been quadrupled since his time ; and many zealous naturalists
have devoted their time, health, and money to the discovery
of the natural productions of foreign countries. But we are
leaving our plant to wither ; and we have yet to learn to which
of these four genera it belongs. — " Rubia, Corolla bell-
shaped," &c. We need not proceed with this, for it cannot be
the right ; we will try the next. — ** Galium, Corolla flat, fruit
dry." This answers to it very well. We will turn to the full
description of this genus, and compare it further. " Calyx
superior, very minute, with four teeth {d) ; corolla monopeta-
lous, wheel-shaped *, in four deep, acute, often long-pointed
segments, without a tube {b) ; filaments, from the base of the
corolla, awl-shaped, shorter than the limb f {e) ; anthers of two
round cells [f) ; germs inferior, of two combined globes {c) ;
style thread-shaped, the length of the stamens, cloven at least
half way down (g) ; stigma capitate % (Ji); seeds two, naked,
combined, globular, not crowned by the calyx {i) ; flowers
terminal or lateral ; the skin of the seed either smooth, granu-
lated, or bristly."

These characters perfectly describe the plant before us ; it
is a Galium. But there are seventeen British Galiums. We
must next ascertain the species. The genus is ranged under
two divisions ; the species which have smooth, and those which
have bristly^ fruit. Of the latter there are but two ; and as

f * A wheel-shaped corolla is monopetalous, with little or no tube, and the
limb spreading horizontally.

t The limb is what is sometimes called the border, or margin : it is the
spreading part of a flower, above the tube, cup, or bell, which composes the
lower part.

;, % Capitate signifies headed; having a little head, or knob, like a pin.

Linnean System of Plants,

163

our plant is one of them, we shall have but little difficulty, for
we begin with the sixteenth species. " Galium horeale. Leaves
four in a whorl," &c. Our plant has eight leaves in a whorl j
it is the next species, Galium Aparine^ goose-grass, or
cleavers ; so called because the bristles, which cover every part
of the plant, cleave to every thing that comes near it, and rend
the down from geese as they pass. Some persons refer the
name of goose-grass to geese feeding upon the herb. The
seeds of this plant, when roasted, are a tolerable substitute for
coffee; and, as Sir J. E. Smith justly observes, "if raised for a
crop, they might have the additional recommendation of being
much dearer."

We have another plant to study yet : this pretty, delicate,
blue flower, so closely buried in coarse, rough, bristly leaves,
that they seem as though they must wound its tender sides.
{Jig, 46.) We will split open the co-
rolla {h\ and within the tube we shall
find five stamens, which were before con-
cealed from view by five little valves in
the mouth (or, as some call it, the throat).
The plant is in the class Pentandria,
We find one pistil remaining in the
calyx : it has four germs ; in the midst
of which the style is inserted {c). It be-
longs to the first order, Monogynia, The
first section of this order contains the
Asperifblice before mentioned. The
flowers are monopetalous, inferior, with
two or four naked seeds : there are ten
genera, and to one of these our plant belongs.

" Echium, Throat of the corolla dilated, naked,*' &c. The
throat of this plant is not naked ; therefore it cannot be an
^''chium.
. " Pulmonaria, Corolla naked in the throat," &c.

" LitJwspermum, Corolla naked in the throat," &c.

" Symphytum, Corolla closed with awl-shaped converging
valves," &c. The valves in our specimen are roundish and
blunt ; therefore it cannot be a *Symphytum.

" Borago, Corolla closed with awl-shaped or notched
valves," &c.

** Lycopsis, Corolla closed with concave obtuse valves,
funnel-shaped, with a doubly bent tube ; seeds concave at the
base."

^ Yes, these valves answer the description {d), and the tube
is bent two different ways [e). Let us compare the plant with
the fill! description of the genus iyc6psi3. " Calyx inferior,

1^64 Linnean System of Plants,

of one leaf, in five deep, oblong, acute, erect, or somewhat
spreading segments ; permanent {f). Corolla of one petal,
funnel-shaped; tube cylindrical, curved to one side just above
the base, and recurved towards the summit {e) ; limb in five
rather deep rounded segments, sometimes oblique, and slightly
irregular {g) ; mouth closed with five rounded, concave, hairy,
converging valves {d). Filaments very small, within the tube,
at the uppermost curvature. Anthers oblong, incum-
bent {h). Germs four (c). Style thread-shaped, half the
length of the tube (?). Stigma obtuse, notched [k). Seeds
four, ovate, angular, with a bordered scar, attached to the base
of the enlarged swelling calyx (/)." All these characters cor-
respond with the plant before us. If we observe a calyx from
which the corolla has fallen, and the seeds grown to a toler-
able size, we find that the calyx also has grown larger than
when it supported the flower ; and if we take one of the seeds
out of it, we may see that the part by which it was fastened is
a little hollow in the centre, so that the circumference of the
seed forms a border round it. The part by which a seed is
fastened is called the scar^ or hilum : this may be seen in the
broad bean, and in many other seeds ; and is the part which
we turn downwards when we sow them. But for our plant :
we have ascertained it to be a iycopsis ; and as there is only
one British species, it must, of course, be that one. Let us
see if it agrees with the description of that. " Whole herb
very bristly and prickly. Stem erect, branched, slightly angu-
lar, leafy, one or two feet high. Leaves light green, single-
ribbed [m) ; the lower ones bluntest, and tapering down into
foot-stalks {n) ; the rest sessile, or clasping the stem. Clusters
in pairs, forked (o), revolute ( p) ; erect when in fruit, display-
ing their enlarged bristly bracteas (q). Partial * stalks shorter
than the calyx, erect, especially in fruit. Calyx very bristly.
Corolla bright blue; tube and valves white; limb a little
irregular, and inclining. Seeds hard, grey, ovate, pointed,
wrinkled, and granulated."

Our plant is the small Bugloss (Zycopsis arvensis), a very
common annual weed, flowering in June. Having so accurately
examined this plant, and confidently ascertained it, I will
now take leave, for the present, of the fifth class ; and, in my
next, shall invite your readers to admire with me the beautiful
class Hexandria.

* The partial stalk is that which actually bears the flower, and connects
it with the larger, which is called the common flower- stalk. Botanically, a
flower-stalk is called a peduncle; and when there are both partial and
common flower-stalks, the former are termed pedicles (from pediculus, dim.
o£pes, a foot or prop). A l0af-stalk is distinguished by i^&tejtm petiole.

On the Natural History of Vegetables * 165

Art. IX. On the Natural History of Vegetables, By Mentor.

Sir,

As the names, qualities, and peculiarities of plants, both
indigenous and exotic, will frequently occupy your pages (and
which will be highly useful and pleasing to your young read-
ers who may be fond of plants), it has occurred to me that a
short series of papers on vegetable physiology will not be
altogether unsuitable for your work. In doing this, I do not
mean to keep the old beaten track of scientific physiology,
which would only be a kind of transcript of books of far higher
authority than any thing that I dare pretend to bring forward
on the subject. But in thus leaving the old road, I shall not
be misled by the hand-posts of theoretic directors, but be at
perfect liberty to follow where Nature leads ; and, as she ap-
pears divested of the verbiage and trappings of science, plainly
describe what long experience has acquired, and extensive
practice has confirmed.

I am far from inferring from this that scientific terminology
should be banished from your periodical. This would be
Vandalism indeed ; and would detract from its merits as well
as contract its circulation. But in the case of botanical physio-
logy, a science which every young countryman (many of whom
will be your readers) should thoroughly understand, the sub-
ject is often obscured by a redundance of terms, and the
abstruse language in which it is described. I intend, there-
fore, in these papers to use the plainest language I can : it will
be most natural to myself, and I hope will be sufficiently clear
to the reader.

It will be a kind of natural arrangement to begin with a
description of the

Hoot, -—When a seed is placed in the soil in a favourable
situation, it swells, bursts its shell, if it has one, and its skin,
and protrudes its radicle spur in a downward direction. Its
first shape, if that of a tree or other large seed, is a blunt
cone. The centre progressively protruding, becomes more
taper, till the point ends in a slender and very delicate thread ;
and continues to extend itself in a direction which the con-
stitution or quality of the soil allows. From other seeds,
especially those of herbaceous plants, not one, but a tuft of
slender fibres is produced from the under side of the heart,
or vital point of the seed ; these extend themselves in all direc-
tions, and also tending downwards. All underground roots
are composed of, or are furnished with, slender fibres. They
are the organs by which the principal part of the watery and
aerial nourishment of the plant is received. To be capable of

16,6 On the Natural Histm-y of Vegetables.

this function, they must be extremely susceptible, and conse-
quently of the most delicate structure. This is obvious enough
to the naked eye, but much more so when assisted by the micro-
scope ; such sensitive organs are not fitted to bear the influence
of light, unless submersed in water, or in a very humid state
of the air, as we often witness in a hot-bed, or other confined
place. Darkness, therefore, is necessary for the natural action
of fibres ; and this, together with a certain degree of heat and
humidity, accounts for their prone direction in ordinary cases,
or for their taking any other direction if unnaturally situated
by art or accident.

When the root of a seedling tree has descended an inch or
two into the soil, it is in shape a lengthened cone ; its exterior
becomes of a darker colour, and beset with transverse indented
marks, or minute tubercles ; from the former issue fibres,
which gradually increase in length, and become branching
radicles, which in time take all the appearance and offices of
the first ; these in their turn are marked, and become divided
in like manner. This progressive division and subdivision
continues in all directions : first downwards, and afterwards
horizontally, according to the distance from the surface, which
is suitable to the nature of the plant, and always in proportion
to the extent of the head which it is called upon to supply.

These fibres, whether they form the advancing points of the
roots and their branches, or as they issue from the exterior of
the parts previously formed, are, as has been already noticed,
exceedingly sensitive; suddenly extending themselves into
water, or into the humid cavities of the soil ; and on a change
of these exciting circumstances, as suddenly shrinking back to
the place whence they issued, or if exposed to dry air wither-
ing away. That this excitement is caused by an impulse of
the vital principle within, as well as favoured by the propitious
elements without, is sufficiently obvious ; because they are only
active simultaneously with the other growing effijrts or expan-
sions of the plant, and remain inactive when these are at rest.
If, however, they continue to advance, the bases, or first formed
parts of the leading ones, gradually change, by enlargement
of their diameters, and instead of delicate transparent pro-
cesses, become hardened tenacious fibres, thus extending the
points and ramifications of the roots on all sides.

When a root has become as thick as a finger, a transverse
section thereof shows, that it is composed of four very distinct
parts. First, a central pith, consisting of a spongy, soft, and
light substance. Second, a circular body of tough, woody
threads ; each forming in the first stage of its existence, a
longitudinal sap-conducting tube, either individually, or after-

On the Natural History of Vegetables. 167

terwards forming during induration interstices of various
figure and capacity for the same purpose. The various attach-
ments, contortions, and structure of this woody cylinder, are cu-
rious objects for the microscope ; and have been fertile sources
of conflicting opinions among men of science. Of this cylinder
the interior part next the pith is first formed, and is always
more compact in its texture than the exterior side or surface,
which has been recently, or is in the act of being, formed.
Third, the inner bark, which is visibly composed of longitudi-
nal fibres or threads, variously attached to each other ; and
when detached, presenting a kind of network similar to the
recent fibrils which insert themselves between two tiles, or
other smooth surfaces closely laid together. Fourth, the
bark ; the inner surface of which is partly composed of longi-
tudinal threads, resembling closely those of inner bark, and
from which there is no very distinct separation ; but its exte-
rior surface presents a very different structure, being composed
of parts both longitudinally and transversely divided and sub-
divided, and appearing to the eye a spongy cork-like mass,
coloured by the qualities of the air residing in the earth, with-
out which all roots die or remain dormant. Besides those
longitudinal layers, which form the structure of a root, and
which are so visible on the transverse section, there are other
woody rays which diverge from the exterior of the pith, and
terminate on the interior verge of the inner bark.

The uses and office of the root are to fix the plant in the
soil, and to extract or receive therefrom the various qualities
necessary to the deyelopement of itself and the other parts of
the plant. The fibres, which have been already described, are
the agents which visibly receive those qualities, which are the
food of the plants; but a conjecture is admissible, whether the
tubercles on the bark be not also recipients of some quality or
other. Of the use of the fibres, however, there is no doubt :
we see them in full exertion while vegetation proceeds, and
languid or inert when growth is stationary. From every
observation which practical attention has been able to make,
whether from the stump of an amputated root, or from the end
of a cutting placed in favourable circumstances in the soil,
they appear to originate from the interior edge of the inner
bark ; and, in fact, are nothing else than elongations of the
extreme, or lower, ends of the fibres, which compose that
organ. When they issue from a layer, they may be traced to
the same part of the vegetable structure, not as originating
there, because this would be supposing an entity to proceed
from a nonentity, which is impossible : no ; their origin is the
vital lieart or corculum, whence they and all the organisation

168 071 the Natural History of Vegetables.

sprang. When, therefore, these descending vessels are low-
ered from their aerial station, and placed in immediate contact
with the objects of their search, viz. darkness and humidity,
they are impelled, or invited to burst through the bark the
nearest way to find them.

Whether the powers of a root exist in its formation, or
from some internal faculty, which by expansion forms a vacuum
for the admission of extraneous qualities, is a curious question.
When considered as a member of a living being, whose head
elevated in the air, is constantly expanding and perspiring,
there is no great difficulty in comprehending how the fluids of
the root ascend to the head, and also how the vessels of the
root may be replenished. In this view, the fibrils and other
recipients of the roots may with propriety be called absorbents;
which implies, that there is a redundance of the necessary
quality without, and a want of it within, hence its absorption.
But this is not generally adopted ; some attributing the inhal-
ing power of the roots to a peristaltic motion of the vessels,
and the vitality of the plant, though we see the same effects
produced by a piece of lifeless sponge, or a bundle of unor-
ganised threads. It is necessary, therefore, to be cautious in
attributing to vegetable organisation, or any combination of
matter, self-agency. We are surrounded by the powers of
nature, mighty though invisible. The pressure of the atmo-
sphere and its constituent properties, the expanding force of
heat, the subtile effects of electricity, all more or less influence
vegetation, and unite with its own powers in its motions and
developement.

Another circumstance, connected with the powers or suscep-
tibilities of roots, deserves notice : this is, their invariable ten-
dency to the place of their favourite or richest food. Whe-
ther this be heat, moisture, or manure, thither will all fibrils
advance, though placed at the distance of several feet. This
is explained, by supposing that the qualities mentioned are
surrounded by a little atmosphere carrying their specific pro-
perties, which reach, and in course attract, the fibrils.

Of the Crown, or Vital Principle of the Root. — There is at-
tached to all roots what, from its position, is called their crown :
it divides them from the stem or stems, and consequently forms
a base to the latter. In the seed it was the heart or radius,
from whence arose, as has already been noticed, all the various
organisation of the plant. It is the seat of life in all trees,
especially when young, and remains long visible in some
kinds (the Spanish chestnut, for instance), even after the pith
and heart of the stem is gone to decay. It is always existent
in herbaceous plants, but becomes undistinguishable in most

On the Natural History of Vegetables, 1 69

trees. In individual plants, as most of the palms, it remains
stationary ; no part of it being detached into either roots or
stem, but only small portions of it into each seed. All jointed
stems, whether herbaceous or ligneous, contain a portion of
the crown at each joint ; and all plants which increase them-
selves by runners, as the strawberry, being the living progeny
of the crown, are furnished with portions thereof. In all annual
plants the principle of the crown is perpetuated by being con-
veyed to the seeds, as in wheat ; into the stem and seeds, as in
the balsam; and into the stem, seeds, and tubers, as in the potato.
In the generality of trees and shrubs the crown is fugitive,
and diffused over the whole plant, roots, stem, branches,
shoots, and seeds. An exception to this exists in the pine or
fir tribe, which (save one) never are furnished with any por-
tion of the crown to throw up suckers from the root.

On many plants the crown shifts its place annually. In the
tulip, narcissus, &c., it is a thin plate, which forms at the base
of the bulb, discharging the last year's crown and roots belovv.
In the strawberry, asparagus, &c., the new crown is formed at
the side of, and rather above, the old one. In some plants it
is constantly rising from a lower to a higher station on the
stem, as appears on the annona; on which plant, it also may
be observed, portions of it are detached to the base and crown
of the fruit as well as into the seeds. Other plants are en-
dowed with the property of removing from their old to new
stations by the lateral progress of the crowns of the roots, as
the water lily, and all those called " walking plants."

Even the leaves of some plants partake so much of the
structure of the branches, as to have portions of the vital crown
lodged in them, as Zygophyllum ; others in the petiole of the
leaf, as Qohce^a ; and in one genus detached parts of it are found
in cup-like appendages on the surface of the plant, as in
Ziehen.

There is a curious instance of the motability of the crown
observable in cereal plants, and probably all those having
jointed stems ; viz. if a seed of wheat happens to be buried too
deep, the seed vegetates, producing roots and a stem, with its
leaves appearing above ground ; but the first crown being far-
ther from the surface than is proper for the nature of the
plant, the second and third joints are substituted in its stead,
they throwing out the coronal roots to perfect the plant, while
the seminal roots and first interjoint of the stem are left to
perish.

All these different dispositions of the crown of the root
occur in the vegetable kingdom, and, wherever they exist, they
are capable of emitting roots and stems like the parent crown

Vol II. — No. 7. n

1 70 On the Natural History of Vegetables.

from which they have proceeded: those located in or upon
the ground soon strike root ; others in the air protrude roots
also, which are fitted for their situation by their indurated
texture and strength : the air plant and banyan tree are in-
stances ; and not only of the principle and origin of roots, the
roots being dispersed so far over the tree, but also, wherever
existent, their natural tendency is towards the earth.

It has already been noticed, that the fibrils on the roots of
trees, shrubs, and strong-rooted perennial plants, are annual
productions, or at least only in action during the growth of
the plant : but in other individual-stemmed perennials, as the
tulip, the roots as well as the fibrils, like the leaves and stem,
are annual ; that is, they are produced from the radical crown,
on which are seated the abbreviated leaves, future stem, flower,
and fruit, which compose the bulb ; and when these last are
perfected, the whole, w^itli the roots also, perish, and are suc-
ceeded by a new crown, bulb, &c.

The different ways which nature has assigned for the per-
petuation of the radical crown, have given rise to distinguishing
characters of roots; viz. the fibrous, as in wheat; the bulbous,
as in the tulip ; the tuberous, as in the potato ; the globular,
as in the turnip ; the truncated, handed, beaded, &c., all which
are appendages of roots, rather than roots themselves ; and in
fact are only motations, or provisional efforts, of the crown for
multiplying or protecting itself.

Although the crown may be only deemed as one of the
essentials of a plant, and that it only performs, in connection
with the others, its part of the vegetable economy; yet it is
necessary to remark that it has special powers possessed by
no other organ, except the seed, which is the essence of all.
As proof of this, we may observe, that, if the crown be so
placed as that it has not a suitable share of the necessary
elements for its natural developement, it will produce lateral
progeny from itself, without assistance from any other organ ;
witness the production of young tubers in a pit, or young bulbs
in a drawer of the seed-room.

Such is the natural history of the Root : it is divested of
almost every term of science, but it is hoped it will not be the
less intelligible, by being described in the language of a prac-
tical man. The student may easily apply the proper terms,
when so far initiated in the study, as the foregoing may lead
him; and, as some other papers on the same subject, and
couched in the same style, will follow, it is presumed they will
not be altogether unworthy of the young reader's notice.

Mentor.

Fehmary^ 1829.

Phenomena attending Sphce^y^ia fraxinea. 171

Ari. X. On some Phenomena attending Spkce'ria iraxmea.
By Electricus.
Sir,

The specimen which I enclose for your inspection, I believe
to be one of the SphaeVia yVaxinea (/^. 4?.)? class Crypto-
gamia, order i^ungi,
L. Unfortunately,
I have not turned
my attention to this
tribe of plants ; and
I possess only the
edition of 1792 of
Withering's Bota-
nical Arrangement ;
I am therefore un-
able to determine
whether this subject
has now another ge-
neric name. Be
this as it may, the
annexed descrip-
tion is decisive, I
think, of the identity of the fungus.

" Sphse^ia /raxinea. — Roundish, convex, black, dotted,
nearly sitting, pustular. ' Convex without ; substance within
consisting of a number of concentric layers, composed of mi-
nute tubes, or threads, pointing from the centre. Substance
hard ; covered with a thin bark, of a brownish black, some-
what wrinkled and rather glossy, grey within.' {Pay,)
* Very irregular in shape, from one half to more than an inch
in diameter. Pustules scarcely visible to the naked eye.' {RehL
Supp., i. 34.) This, which is very common, differs from the
S. maxima, in being more woody, and showing concentric
circles when cut. It is generally more completely sessile than
it is represented in the figures.

" Lycoperdonyraxineum of Huds., &c. SphaeVia concen-
trica Bolt. — On ash trees when rotten, or in a decaying state,
and observed on no other tree." (Ray.) — With., vol. iii. 475.

It is not on account of the mere curiosity of the species
that I now send it to you. Sir, although I am acquainted with
but one little, old, ash tree, in a state of decay (and that nearly
four miles from my residence), which produces these Sphae^-
riae from between the interstices of the bark ; but from the
singular phenomena which it exhibited during eight or ten
nights successively. Three or four of these Sphae^riae were
brought home one morning, and placed on the mantle-shelf:

N 2

172

Phenomena attending Sphce^ria haxinea.

they were regarded at first as curious, and somewhat orna-
mental productions of nature ; but when I entered the par-
lour on the following morning, I was struck with surprise at
finding each of them surrounded w ith a black powdery efflo-
rescence {fg. 48.), dense edges well defined near the fungus,
but graduiilly shaded
off, and somewhat ra-
diated. Underneath,
there was not the
slightest particle of
powder; but the whole
convex surface of each
was covered with a
powdery mass, or stra-
tum, of a fine bluish -
black colour, which
was readily brushed
off with a feather; in
fact, from ten or twelve
of these fungi, I col-
lecited dust enough to
form, when ground
up with mucilage of
acacia gum, a small
cake of colour, with which the accompanying specimen
was etched with a crow-quill. By repeated observations, I
found that the radiation took place only in the night; never
between the hours of 10 A.M. and 5 P.M., but constantly
after the evening had closed. Connecting this fact with
other natural phenomena, I am inclined to ascribe the process
to electrical agency ; I believe it to depend upon that ascend-
ing current of electricity, which is evidently in a state of pecu-
liar activity during the night, and is the origin of several
marked phenomena; among others, I little doubt, that of the
diffusion of odour from the corollas of night-smelling plants.
I hope soon to invite your attention to the phenomena of the
descending day-current of solar electricity, and the ascending
night-current, just alluded to; but the subject would be pre-
mature on the present occasion.

In the instance of this curious fungus, I think it philoso-
phically just to enquire, whether or not the peculiar season of
the last year, 1828, might not produce effects very different
from those attendant upon ordinary seasons. From the 18th
or 19th of March, the whole spring and the greater part of
the summer appeared to be governed by electrical induc-
tions j and it is possible that many phenomena may have

Retnarkable Spruce Fir at Braco Castle. 173

depended solely upon those inductions, and therefore may
not occur again. If I live, I mean to pay close attention
to this fungus, and report the result faithfully and particu-
larly, should you see fit to honour this communication so
far, as to insert it in your Magazine. In the meantime, I
state the following general facts. The specimens now sent
were gathered about the middle of May; the one which
much resembles an insect of the coleopterous tribe, was that
which produced the efflorescence on the piece of paper accom-
panying it ; it had been at work several nights before I laid it on
the paper, and the writing was added at the very time stated.
The other two specimens are sent merely as such ; and one is
divided to exhibit the concentric layers and radiations of the
internal structure. No efflorescence proceeded from these
layers of the inside, nor was that from the exterior surface
much disturbed or prevented by the section. I am inclined
to ascribe the effect to electricity as its ultimate cause, in this
particular instance; because, I think, the separation of the
fungus from its natural bed (the bark of the ash) might in-
terrupt the regular current, and produce anomalous effects.
Nevertheless, as vegetable electricity is governed by specific
laws, which exert different energies at different periods, I con-
ceive, that, although the ascending night-current might be
thus interrupted, the state of the atmosphere might induce
chemical affinities, by which the aqueous juices of the fungus
were decomposed, and sufficient heat developed to produce
radiation. Some such internal action must have been in-
duced, and that, too, by an energy which was not in action
during the day. Light must have been antagonist to it; for
the effect was never discerned till towards the hour of sunset,
and it ceased with the return of day. lam inclined to ascribe
the phenomenon secondarily to the decomposition of water ;
because the radiation ceased when the fungus became dry, and
was renewed, though only in a very slight degree, by immer-
sion in water. I am, Sir, &c.

Grove House^ Dec. 2Q, 182S. Electricus.

Art. XI. Some Account of a remarhahle Spruce Fir Tree in the
Woods at Braco Castle^ Perthshire, By Mr. Archibald
GoRRiE, C.M.H.S.

Sir, .

The luxuriance of the Indian banyan tree (Picus indlcus)
attracts the notice, and excites the astonishment, of European

N 3

174

Remarkable Spruce Fir at Braco Castle.

travellers. This plant, in common with many of the genus
J'icus, readily emits roots at the joints of the young wood ; the
young side-shoots are pendulous, and on reaching the ground
they readily strike root under the genial climate, and in the
rich soil, of Hindoostan. The plants which compose the genus
Pinus are, for the most part, more difficult to raise by layers or
cuttings than those of any other genus of trees which abound
in our northern forests ; and yet it is among the pine tribe
that the nearest approach is made to the Indian banyan. A
beautiful tree of the black American spruce (^^bies nigra),

about forty years old, stands in the woods at Braco Castle,
Perthshire, the property of James Masterton, Esq., of Braco ;
from its side-shoots a number of young trees have sprung up
of different altitudes around the mother-plant. The circum-
ference is regularly and gradually extending, and fresh shoots
strike root and grow perpendicularly all around the original
plant. Should this beautiful assemblage of evergreen spires
be allowed to extend, and be protected from the inroads of
cattle, it may be difficult to assign limits to the beautiful mass
of vegetation which time may form. The above sketch
{fig, 49.) will give some idea of its present appearance. It
may be proper to add that a natural seedling from this tree,
standing not far distant from the mother-plant, apparently
about twelve years of age, is also in its turn already surrounded
by a numerous and healthy rising family. Both these trees
were pointed out to me by Major F. H. Elliot, Royal Engi-

Winds mid theh' Causes, 1 75

neers, and the proprietor, Mr. Masterton, as natural curio-
sities. I am, Sir, &c.

Archd. GorrieJ
Annat Gardens, near Eyrol^ Perth, March 10. 1828.

Art. XII. Of Winds, and the Causes of their different Kinds.
By Mr. Main.

It has been stated by Dr. Birkbeck as his opinion, that not
only the causes of wind will be better understood, but also
the time of its happening in any particular place be predicted
with certainty. This would be a wonderful, as well as useful,
portion of human knowledge. Such foresight would regulate
much of the open-air business of life ; in assisting to preserve
the fruits of the earth ; and, in an infinite degree, to influence
the movements of the mariner.

Considerable advances have been made in this science in
intertropical climates, where the sun exerts so much power.
There the prevailing winds are generally, or partially, period-
ical. In the central parts of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian
oceans, where the currents of the atmosphere are not dis-
turbed by the influences of land, the winds, if any at all,
blow constantly from east to west, or from the collateral
points. This is caused by the cooler air of evening pressing
westward upon the heated air of mid-day ; in other words,
the lower temperature of the air in the place to the eastward
of the sun, causes it to press westward upon the rarefied air
at the place over which he i^ vertical.

This general breeze, in that part of the Indian ocean which
washes the southern shores of Asia, is broken into varying,
though nearly periodical currents, called monsoons. These
winds, and their changes, have been rationally accounted for,
by attributing their deviations from the general current met
with ten degrees to the southward of Ceylon, to the influences
of the more rarefied state of the air, over the peninsulas
of hither and farther India ; and also to the sun's motion in
the ecliptic, which, in some measure, causes those seasonal
influences.

It is now a well established fact, that the exciting cause of
all currents of air is before, and not behind, the blast. This
is daily exemplified in warm countries on the sea-shore ; for
when the unclouded sun has risen about four hours, and has
heated the land to a higher temperature than the sea, imme^

N 4

176 Winds and fhcir Causes*

diately the sea-breeze sets in ; and during the night, the land
becoming cooler than the sea, from radiation of its solar heat
and evaporation, a contrary current, called the " land wind,"
takes place. An easy experiment satisfactorily explains this
phenomenon : — " Take a large flat vessel, fill it with cold
water, and into the middle of this put a water-plate filled witli
warm water : the first will represent the ocean, the latter an
island rarefying the air above it. Blow out a wax candle ; and,
if the place be still, on applying it successively to every side
of the vessel, the fuliginous particles of the smoke, being visi-
ble and very light, will be seen to move towards the plate,
and, rising over it, point out the course of air from sea to land.
If the ambient water be warmed, and the plate filled with cold
water, when the wick is held over the centre of the plate, the
contrary will happen, and show the course of the wind from
land to sea." [Clare^ on Fluids.)

The general breeze, or " trade wind," has been known to
bring ships sailing from the equator as far north as the Eng-
lish channel. But this seldom happens ; because the vast con-
tinent of Europe being generally warmer than the Atlantic
ocean, the prevailing winds set the contrary way. Hence
our equhioctial gales in the month of March, as well as winds
from that quarter the greater part of the year. The gales at
the vernal equinox may be accounted for thus : —

The power of the sun is daily increasing; which, in con-
junction with the agricultural face of Europe, ploughed, har-
rowed, and rolled down to a smooth, naked, and reflecting
surface, so rarefies the air, that the cooler, and, consequently,
denser air over the western ocean rushes fiiriously eastward
in violent gales. These continue usually four or five days, or
till the aerial ocean attains an equilibrium. After this, the
surface of the earth is soon clothed in verdure, and no longer
so reflective ; the currents of air become variable, according
to circumstances near or remote, till the fields are shorn of
their vegetable covering, and the exposed summer-dried sur-
face again attracts the cooling gales from the westward at the
autumnal equinox.

Different currents of air, in both hemispheres, are caused
by accidental and local rarefactions thereof, either from heat
or sudden and heavy falls of rain, and sometimes from vol-
canoes. These phenomena, wherever they happen, produce a
sort of vacuum, of less density than the surrounding atmo-
sphere ; which, closing to fill up the unoccupied or rarer space,
generates those streams of air, which, according to their force,
are called breezes or gales ; or, from their whirling direction,
hurricanes or tornadoes.

Interest derived from the Stud^ of the Wefither, 177

The atmosphere, being a fluid of different densities, must
necessarily be almost always in motion; it is expanded by
evaporations of water raised into it, and decreased in volume
when these are withdrawn. One, perhaps never-ceasing, mo-
tion it must necessarily have, though not usually perceptible
near the surface of the earth ; viz. currents of cold air from
the poles to the equator, and contrary currents above, of
warmer and lighter air, from the equator to the poles.

Art. XIIT. On the Art of deriving Interest from the Study of the
Weather. By Mr. A. Gorrie, C.M.H.S.

There are fevf sciences more imperfectly understood, and,
I believe, there are few more generally interesting, than me-
teorology, as far as it relates to temperature, moisture of the
atmosphere, and their effects on vegetation as well as on the
health and comfort of the human species. So generally oper-
ative are these effects on the animal spirits, that every man is
more or less a meteorologist ; even the lower animals, in many
instances, afford sufficient evidence of their being instinct-
ively prognosticators of approaching changes in the state of
the atmosphere ; vegetables too, by the contraction and expan-
sion of their foliage and flowers, have in the absence of more
scientific criteria been referred to for the same indication ;
and it may not be altogether out of place here to submit a
few of these popular indications in the shape of queries, con-
ceiving that the Magazine of Natural History is the proper
channel through which their solution may be obtained.

Why is the awn of the wild oat and of the sw^eet-scented
spring grass more straight when the hygrometer indicates sa-
turation, than when the air contains less moisture ?

Why do the convolvulus, the anemone, and anagallis shut up
their flowers, and many species of trefoil shut up their leaves,
and why does the Porlier« hygrometra contract its foliage,
before rainy weather ?

Why does the mole send up earth, why do earthworms
appear on the earth's surface, and why are toads seen to
move more than usual, when dry weather is to be succeeded
by rain ?

Why are the summits of some lofty mountains covered
with a cap of mist, when there is none in the adjacent valleys,
about twenty-four hours before rain ?

178 Art of deriving Interest

Why do sheep, cattle, and fowls eat more voraciously, and
why is the sound of the distant bell and waterfall more dis-
tinctly heard, before rain ?

Why do crows (rooks) fly aloft in wild disorder, why do
pigs make an unusual noise, and why do the dolphin and
porpoise approach the shore, before a tempest of wind ?

Why do cattle snufF the air, roar, and appear frantic, be-
fore thunder ?

Why do the joints of the aged feel painful before the ap-
proach of what is vulgarly termed " rough weather," and
why is the hypochondriac depressed when the mercury in the
barometer is low ?

These are a few, and only a few, of the popular indications
of atmospherical changes : and though they may exhibit an
appearance of rural simplicity, yet as they are facts which
have evidently been taught " in Nature's school," and which
have obtained the sanction of ages ; connected too as they are
with a science which, notwithstanding its claims to antiquity,
may still be said to be in its infancy ; the philosopher will
allow that they come within the legitimate range of his in-
vestigation. Such natural phenomena, it may be safely in-
ferred, attracted the observation of mankind in the earliest
ages : we know that the Greeks and Egyptians wrote on the
subject ; the Jews too, a pastoral people, " could discern the
face of the sky ; " and, even in our day, shepherds may be
ranked among the " weather wise ;'" nor is there any thing
more common amongst country people at meeting than a
pinch of snuff, and some sage remarks on the state of the wea-
ther ; indeed, the universal mode of salutation in this country
used by strangers, or by such as wish to treat one another as
strangers, is uniformly a remark on the weather. " There is a
fine morning, a soft day, or a cold evening," are modes of
salutation with us, as common as is the " Salem Alikem"
(Peace be with you !) amongst the inhabitants of the more
serene countries of the East: and where familiarity is not in-
tended, if opportunity serves, more lengthened remarks are
introduced, such as "Do you think we shall have rain? What
is the age of the moon ? Do the clouds betoken wind ? What
effect will the late rain have on the crops?" &c. ; till the con-
versation is sufficiently extended to become a stepping-stone
to the discussion of politics. That this should be the case
where the climate is so variable is not at all surprising; the
wonder is, that a subject so intimately connected with the
comforts of man, and which daily presses itself on his observ-
ation, should remain (notwithstanding the facilities which
modern science affords for the study) not only unpopular, but

from the Study of the Weather. 1 79

to many fatiguing and revolting. In our researches we are
not now confined strictly to the appearances of the sky, or the
class of phenomena noticed above ; the properties of air and
other bodies are now better understood. The barometer,
thermometer, the hygrometer or differential thermometer of
Lesley, serve to inform us of the fluctuations in the pressure
of the atmosphere, its temperature, and the moisture it con-
tains ; and yet, with all these advantages, the science of me-
teorology seems to excite less interest in our day than at any
former period : and wherefore is this the case ? We see me-
teorological tables that have been extracted from registers,
where the observations have been made with due care no less
than 730 times in one season ; but then these tables present a
mass of figures, and, notwithstanding the trouble the writer
had in furnishing that mass, sheer laziness will not allow
us to be benefited by his labours. To render these tables
palatable, they must come in a more fascinating form,' and
associated with practical remarks.

Applying these remarks to the purposes of common life, a
particular reference to the relative progress of vegetation in
different seasons, as acted upon by temperature, moisture in
the atmosphere, and moisture in the soil, ought to form an
accompaniment of every such table. Meteorological writers
are therefore to blame for serving up their tables in such un-
couth and forbidding shapes : let them connect their observ-
ations on the state of the atmosphere with its effects on the
vegetable, and, if they please, on the animal, kingdoms ; and
if this is done with accuracy and any degree of judgment, it
is hardly possible to conceive a mind so entirely divested of
curious research as to be prevented from comparing the pre-
sent with the past, in all its bearings, and from forming just
deductions from the comparison. For instance, in looking
over a calendar of nature (p. 205.) for the spring months of this
year, the reader will find that vegetation is from 1 6 to 20 days
later in March than in the corresponding month of last year ;
and, on looking to the table, he will find the mean tempera-
ture to be 2° 4' less, and the supply of moisture to be 2^q
inches less. He will therefore conclude that a recurrence of
the same or similar circumstances which happened in either
season, will be followed by similar effects ; and this novel in-
vestigation will open to his mind a new source of pleasure.
I am. Sir, yours, most respectfully,

A. GORRIE.

Annat Garden, January 15. 1829. ^

- 180

PART 11.

REVIEWS.

Art. I. The Journal of a Naturalist. London. 12mo, pp.403.

Sir,
You have, no doubt, met with a grass-green volume, of
very sufficing plumpness, and flourishing appearance, lately-
produced under the title of 21ie Journal of a Naturalist. Both
the name and the aspect are inviting ; the author, at our first
meeting, offers us the shade of a noble tree to repose under,
and at once bespeaks our good will, and disposes us to listen
to his communications. We set out with him on his rambles ;
and, though the commencement of our journey presents no-
thing very interesting, we still proceed. The prospect becomes
promising : beyond the downs, grass lands, and potato fields,
we behold a clump of fine old trees, a pretty sprinkling of
flowers, and a sprightly assemblage of singing-birds. We
sometimes incline to be weary of the repeated delays of our
companion, who seems disposed to devote more time and
attention to some objects than we are inclined to grant; and
misled, perhaps, by a love of home and its vicinity, to place
too high a value on some of its commonest productions. At
last, however, having settled the merits of the limestone rocks,
the shells, and flints, and happily consigned the fate and fame
of strontian to the justice of time, we flatter ourselves that we
have passed all obstacles to our progress towards a more
pleasing part of the country; when suddenly we are requested
to pause by the side of a limekiln, to give ear to a tale that
requires all our powers of belief. We are informed that,
some years since, a man oppressed with fatigue, and benumbed
with cold, laid himself down, with his feet upon the stones
placed in the kiln to burn throughout the night, and there fell
asleep. The limestones becoming gradually heated, the man
still sleeping and unconscious, one foot, with the lower part
of the leg, was entirely consumed. When the kilnman awakened
the man in the morning, and he attempted to rise, he missed
— not his foot, reader — but — his shoe, and begged it might
be found. The leg-bone no sooner touched the ground than

The Journal of a Naturalist, 18 1

it crumbled away, " having been calcined into lime ; " yet the
man seemed unconscious of his loss ; " he expressed no sense
of pain, and probably experienced none, from the gradual
operation of the fire, and his own torpidity, during the hours
his foot was consuming." Might we be permitted to doubt of
the attempt to rise, and the missing of the shoe, we should
believe that his not expressing any sense of pain was attribut-
able to that beneficent law of nature which decrees that ex-
treme suffering shall produce insensibility. We will venture
upon no further comment on this story; some things are pos-
sible that are passing strange.

Our author then proceeds to expatiate upon the successive
employments afforded to the labouring classes of the district;
such as potato-setting, hay-making, teasel-gathering, corn-
reaping, &c., until the approach of winter, when comes the
time for " breaking the limestone for the use of the roads."
And here we see an instance of the powerful effect of habit :
here is a man, apparently amiable and kind-hearted, whose
leisure is devoted to the contemplation of nature, and whose
pursuits have taught him that the meanest worm, the pettiest
insect, holds its station as a link in the great work of creation,
yet so little acquainted with the necessities and feelings of his
own species, as to believe that he is describing prosperity and
comfort in a passage like the following : —

" The rough material costs nothing ; a short pickaxe to
detach the stone, and a hammer to break it, are all the tools
required. A man or a healthy woman can easily supply about
a ton in the day; a child that goes on steadily^ about one third
of this quantity ; and, as we give \s, for the ton, a man, his
wife, and two tolerable-sized children, can obtain from 25. 8^.
to 35. per day, by this employ, during the greater part of the
winter ; and, should the weather be bad, they can work at
intervals, and various broken hours, and obtain something;
and there is a constant demand for the article."

By what process of reasoning, or by what want of reason-
ing, is it, that a man, apparently in the enjoyment of the com-
forts of life himself, yet not sufficiently affluent to be ignorant
of the value of money, can persuade himself that this is well-
doing ? Most probably from a habit of enjoying his own
ease, without thinking of others ; and of looking upon the poor
(perhaps unconsciously to himself) as an inferior race of
beings. How is it that a man, evidently leading a life of ease;
with leisure to enjoy his speculative rambles, in the finer sea-
sons ; a sufficiency of food to satisfy his appetite, sharpened
by exercise ; an easy bed to repose on after his fatigue ; clothing
to cover him at all seasons ; a sound roof to shelter him from

1 82 The Journal of a Naturalist,

the inclemencies of winter, and a snug fireside at his command
(and these comforts, at least, we must suppose him to enjoy) ;
— how is it that a man so circumstanced should be so utterly
insensible to the misery of the condition he describes, that he
should think it much that " a man or a healthy woman" may,
by continued labour throughout a winter's day, earn one shil-
ling P — that a family of four, if the children go on steadili/,
may, by their united labours, obtain from 165. to 185. in a
week, to provide them all with lodging, firing, food, and
clothing ? — and this, too, only if the weather be favourable.
If there be bad weather (and how much bad weather usually
occurs in the winter season we need not say), " they can work
at intervals, and various broken hours, and obtain something ! "
They have actually a chance of avoiding utter starvation, even
in bad weather ! — if they cannot get two meals in a day, they
may possibly get one ; and if bread be too dear, they may yet
procure a potato ! — that is, indeed, provided they be all
healthy. Let us suppose this poor family, by the industry of
the parents, and the continued labour of the children, to earn
the enormous sum of 185. in the week: deduct two for rent, and
one for firing, and 155. will remain to clothe and to feed them,
and to supply such occasional expenses as must sometimes
occur ; as the purchase of any articles of furniture, tools, &c.,
Ss. 9d. for each individual. Were the author of this volume,
but for one week, to make the experiment of living within
such an income, I am persuaded he would read the passage in
question witli very different feelings and opinions of the " well-
doing " of the villagers of that " favoured district." Much
may be done with sobriety, industry, and hope, it is true ; and
1 85. or even 1 6s. a week is more than many poor families sub-
sist upon ; but let us not affect to look with admiration upon
the happy condition of a poor family who can " obtain some-
thing " by hard labour, in broken hours, even in bad winter
weather !

This gentleman's ideas of good living, when speaking of the
peasantry, may be seen in other passages of the work. Po-
tatoes, he tells us, form their chief food. " Every labourer,"
continues he, " rents of the farmer some portion of his land,
to the amount of a rood or more, for this culture ; the pro-
fits of which enable him frequently to build a cottage, and,
with the aid of a little hread^ furnishes a regular, plentiful, and
nutritious food for himself his mfe, and his children, within,
and his pig^ without doors; and they all grow fat and healthy
upon this diet." The population of England, our author
observes, is fast increasing, in consequence of the cultivation
of this vegetable ; and that it is the only earthly production of

I

The Journal of a Naturalist. ISS

which the cultivation may be so extended as to meet every
demand.

The story of Sir Walter Raleigh having first introduced
this useful root into Ireland, he is disposed to treat as fabu-
lous ; because, he says, it was not generally known in Ireland
until fifteen years after Sir Walter's return from his last voy-
age ; but, in the next page, he goes on to say that the first
mention made of the potato, in England, as possessing any
kind of virtue, was by Sir Francis Bacon, four-and-twenty
years after Gerarde's mention of it in 1597 (when he received
some of the roots from Virginia, and planted them) ; and fur-
ther adds, that it was not grown in gardens until forty years
afterwards ; nor to any extent in the field, until the middle of
the last century. Sir Walter Raleigh has long been considered
as the. first introducer of this valuable root into Ireland, where
it is peculiarly good and valuable; and he should not, on
slight grounds, be deprived of that reputation.

But we have travelled in a circle, and returned to the spot
whence we started — to the Shellard's Lane Oak. Our author
takes this opportunity of calling to mind many of the magni-
ficent trees that have, at different periods, been celebrated in
this country. He observes that trees have the same power of
collecting moisture about them, in the winter, when bare of
leaves, as in the summer, when full-clothed ; and mentions, as
an instance, an ash tree which he saw dripping with water, in
a fog, when every thing around appeared perfectly dry. This
he accounts for, by considering the tree rather as a condenser
than an attractor. In the beginning of the present year I
observed a similar circumstance with regard to a jessamine,
which dripped with water after a morning fog, while other
objects remained dry. The same thing, says the writer, may
be observed on a post or a gate, on the side exposed to the
passage of the fog. To this condensing of fogs and mists,
causing a frequent fall of water from trees, he attributes, in a
great measure, the luxuriant appearance of the herbage be-
neath them. A variety of causes may occasionally produce
such luxuriance ; but it is a well-known fact, that compara-
tively few plants will thrive under the dripping of trees ; a fact,
the knowledge of which has compelled many a husbandman to
lop from his trees some of their finest branches.

I am sorry so frequently to differ from this naturalist; but
what does he mean by saying that the " utility of the blossom
of flowers is by no means obvious ? " He follows up this
assertion by admitting its use in the preservation and perfect-
ing of the germen, the food it affords to multitudes of insects,
&c. &c. ; and is this nothing ? Not to dwell upon the many

184 The Journal of a Naturalist,

cihemical and physical uses of blossoms, those here admitted
are quite sufficient to rescue them from the charge of inutility :
but these the author overlooks, as well as the delight afforded
to man by their beauty and perfume ; because he sees " the
whole race of creation, with the exception of man, utterly re-
gardless of them: " and even this is an assumption. How do
we know that the bee and the butterfly, while extracting the
honey of flowers, may not also be engaged in admiring their
hues and odours ? — how do we know that the carpenter-bee
has no eye for the blushing red of the petals of the rose, be-
cause she chooses to line her nest with the green leaves ? —
or, if this preference be decisive against such admiration, what
says he to the fact, that a very near relative of this bee, hangs
her apartments with the bright scarlet petals of the poppy ?
" I would not," says he, " arrogate for man an exclusive
right, or make him generally the sole consideration of the
beneficence of Providence ; but there are influences which his
reason alone can perceive, incitements to good thoughts, and
•worthy actions." Yet, surely, man may be considered of
some little importance in the scale of creation ; and that from
which he derives pleasure, and " incitements to good thoughts,"
need not necessarily be pronounced useless, because (even
admitting the fact) other creatures do not partake of that
pleasure ! Neither, on the other hand, let us be too sure that
these influences and incitements are exclusively peculiar to
man. Knowing the little that we do know of the bee, the ant,
and the beaver (to say nothing of an infinity of other creatures
remarkable for what we call instinct), how can we venture
upon such an assertion ? While we admire what we see and
know, it becomes us humbly to doubt of that which is hidden
from our knowledge.

In his passion for flowers, I warmly sympathise with the
writer; and in his preference for those of spring. Perhaps,
says he, it is from the early flowers of spring that we derive
the greatest degree of pleasure ; " and our affections seem
immediately to expand at the sight of the first opening blos-
som under the sunny wall or sheltered bank, however humble
its race may be." Again, he says, " With summer flowers
we seem to live as with our neighbours, in harmony and good-
will, but spring flowers are cherished as private friendships."
Let not private friends despise the comparison ; for those who
feel it, will not be among those who are least susceptible of
friendship, or who attach a slight meaning to the term.

" It is a perplexing matter," says our author, in another
passage, " to reconcile our feelings to the rigour, and our
reason to the necessity, of some plants being made the instru-

The Journal of a Naturalist, 185

ments of destruction to the insect world/* Danger often
lurks amid flowers, as we all know ; and it is not exclusively
to insects that they prove fatal ; many animals, men included,
have been destroyed by their poisonous juices: it has even
been asserted that human life has been cut off' by their per-
fume only ; and in cases of infection, as the plague, flowers
have been supposed active in conveying its evil influence.
Yet we do not the less look upon them as emblems of purity
and innocence. The flowers (more especially alluded to in
this passage) which, by their construction, make captive or
destroy the insects attracted by their honey, are few ; we may
rejoice that they are so, for, although we may acquit them of
any " wanton cruelty," and, remembering the distinction of
Shakspeare's grave-digger, admit that the insects went to the
flower, not the flower to the insects ; yet it is not pleasant to
see a flower covered with its little victims. I do not, however,
consider the matter in so serious a light as this gentleman
appears to do. All creatures were born to suffer death ; and
I rather incline to pity the flower, that it is doomed to become
the unsightly agent of their destruction, than the little flies
that escape the spider's net to be smothered in a blossom.
Some persons believe that their destruction is necessary to the
wellbeing of the plant, but there seems little ground for such
a notion.

The greater part of the volume is devoted to birds, treating
of their songs, nests, migrations, food, and various habits ;
and this we suspect to be the portion which the author has
written with the most pleasure to himself. He evidently speaks
from his own personal observation ; and* though he tells us
little that is new, the nature of the Subject, and his evident
interest in it, beguile us into more pleasure in his companion-
ship than we can account for, in reviewing the matter of his
discourse.

In speaking of the rook as the only bird that returns to the
nest it has once forsaken, I conjecture the writer must mean
to except the season of incubation. ' The rook revisits its old
nest at a season of the year when it has no young family to
shelter there, but is not the only bird that revisits its nest at
other seasons. The marten will frequently rear its young in
the nest of the former year ; and if the custom be not more
general, it appears to arise from the injury these frail habit-
ations may have received from time and the elements ; which
makes the building of a new one the less trouble of the two.
The swallow commonly returns to its old haunts ; and, though
it builds a new nest, frequently contrives to save labour, by
placing it so immediately above the former one as to be sup-

VoL.IL — No. 7. o -, . .

186 TJie Journal of a Naturalist.

ported by it, and, consequently, to require less work and slighter
materials. The flycatcher, and, indeed, a variety of other
birds, will build in the same spot for many years in succes-
sion, as he himself admits in another part of the volume ; and
particularly instances the flycatcher (Muscicapa grisola) as
frequenting the same hole in the wall for several years. If
my memory does not deceive me. White makes a similar
remark, though, I think, of a different species.

It is remarkable that a person so much accustomed to ob-
serve the proceedings of birds, insects, and other diminutive
creatures, and who must, consequently, be aware of the many
dangers by which almost every species is surrounded, should
express himself in this manner, in speaking of the blackcap ; —
'* This exceeding dislike of man is very extraordinary ; larger
or more important birds might have an instinctive fear of
violence, but this creature is too small and insignificant to
Ivave ever experienced or to apprehend injuries from him."
Too small ! — how many small birds are annually destroyed
or imprisoned by hundreds, either on account of their beauty,
their flavour, or their music ; and what should exempt this
little creature from the same fate, or fear of the same fate ? —
having, too, so sweet a note, as to be compared with the night-
ingale itself. This fear he attributes to the divine ordination,
which has declared " that the fear of man shall be upon every
beast of the field, upon every fowl of the air, and upon every
living thing that moveth upon the face of the earth." There
are few, I believe, who will not readily admit that it is not " his
sublime countenance, contemplative of the heavens," that
produces this awe of man ; nor does the question, by what it
i^ produced, appear very difficult to solve, even without the
^id of revelation. Is there a creature, however minute, that
is not an object of destruction or persecution to man, through-
out its existence ? Many are killed in self-defence, many for
food, many for sport, and but too many in mere wantonness.
Such creatures as have nq weapons of defence are mostly
t^id, and they have cause to be so. Suppose this little bird
to have wanted this its only defence, to have had no security
but in its smallness and its insignificance, and how many of
its race would have been likely to escape destruction, capti-
vity, or the loss of their young ? Birds have been found in
desert islands that have met " the sublime countenance " of
man without alarm ; and have displayed no signs of fear or
shyness, until taught by experience to fly the dangers that
invariably accompanied him.

The artifice of counterfeiting death, when captured, ob-
served by the writer to be practised by the dorr beetle

The Journal of a 'Naturalist, 187

(*9carabae^us stercorarius) and some other insects, has also been
attributed, in some few instances, to birds ; but the fact ap-
pears very liable to misconception, that which has been taken
for art, may be merely the paralysing effect of fear. How
are we to ascertain that it is not so ?

Perhaps there are few persons, who ever think upon such
subjects at all, that have not, at one time or another, been
struck with the numberless dangers that beset the earth-
worm (Zumbricus terrestris). "Eminently serviceable as this
worm is," says the writer, " it yet becomes the prey of various
orders of the animal creation, and perhaps is a solitary examr
pie of an individual race being subjected to universal destruc-
tion. The very emmet seizes it, when disabled, and bears it
away as its prize : it constitutes, throughout the year, the food
of many birds ; fishes devour it greedily ; the hedgehog eats
it ; the mole pursues it unceasingly in the pastures, along the
moist bottoms of ditches, and burrows after it through the
banks of hedges, to which it retires in dry seasons ; secured,
as the worm appears to be by its residence in the earth, from
the capture of creatures inhabiting a different element, yet
many aquatic animals seem well acquainted with it, and prey
on it as a natural food, whenever it falls in their way; frogs
eat it ; and even the great water-beetle I have known to seize
it, when the bait of the angler ; and it has been drawn up by
the hook. Yet notwithstanding this prodigious destruction of
the animal, its increase is fully commensurate to its consump-
tion, as if ordained the appointed food of all ; and Reaumur
computes, though from what data it is difficult to conjecture,
that the number of worms lodged in the bosom of the earth
exceeds that of the grains of all kinds of corn collected by
man." These observations carry us yet a little further : we
remember that, various as are the creatures that feed upon
the worm, the food which sustains that reptile, in its turn, is
equally miscellaneous. The creatures that eat the worm,
while living, are eaten by it when they are dead ; and it is
possible that, in the never-ceasing change of things, the parti-
cles of which every living creature is composed may be destined
to undergo these numerous dangers in the form of the worm.
The thought is not a proud one, perhaps not a pleasing one;
— but we stay not here — change still proceeds — and by this
process the self-same atoms may, in turn, compose a lily or a
lark.

The author speaks, perhaps, somewhat too strongly in as-
serting that winter is " the time in which nature is most
busily employed;", and that all the fruits and flowers of the
summer are only the advance of what has been ordained and

o 2

188 Catalogue of Works on Natural History,

fabricated in these dull months." Naturalists in general con-
sider winter rather as a nurse to the young buds formed be-
fore its commencement; and admit it to be, in some degree,
a season of rest.

Upon the whole, though the volume before us contains little
that is new, and bears no competition with the simplicity, the
cordial vivacity of White; yet I have read it with much
pleasure, and return thanks to the author for entertaining me
on a subject over which I could willingly linger with him as
long as he had any thing to say. Books offer various sources
of pleasure as well as of profit; a volume which gives us-
but little original information, may still have its value as a
remembrancer of agreeable subjects and useful truths. I
would willingly see this writer's example followed by others
who take interest in similar pursuits, and have similar oppor-
tunities of observation; and though journals of this nature
should be multiplied ad infinitum, I should be among the
first to welcome and to read them. K.

Art. II. Catalogue of Works on Natural History , lately published,
mth some Notice of those considered the most interesting to British
Naturalists,

Britain.

StaTk, John, F.R.S.E., Member of the Wernerian Natural History Society
of Edinburgh, &c. : Elements of Natural History, adapted to the present
state of the Science, containing the Generic Characters of nearly the whole
Animal Kingdom, and Descriptions of the principal Species. Edinburgh.
8vo, pp. 1044, with plates.

We have delayed noticing this volume, hoping to be able to review
it at length ; and the same cause has prevented our hitherto recording the
title of the excellent work of Dr. Fleming, A History of British Animals.
Both works are highly spoken of by those who are considered competent
judges. Of Stark^s Elements a reviewer in Brewster's Journal observes,
" the technical arrangement is judicious, the style simple and perspicuous,]
and a right tone of feeHng pervades the whole work."

The Menageries .• Quadrupeds, described and drawn from Living Subjects.!
Forming the commencement of the Library of Entertaining Knowledge,]
and pubhshed under the superintendence of the Society for the DifFusior
of Useful Knowledge. London. 12mo. Vol. L Part L 2s.
This is the first of a series of intended publications on natural histor}^, in]
which it is proposed to proceed in describing individual animals, " without]
following exclusively an arrangement depending upon what zoologists call|

the order, the family, or the genus to which they belong We are not]

about to write a systematic work on zoology, which shall comprise evervj
specimen of the animal kingdom ; but with especial reference to the plan ofj
difFusimg entertaining knowledge, we shall rather attempt to lead the reader

Goring and Pritchard^s Objects for the Microscope, 189

to a gradual acquaintance with the science, by instructing him in the pecu-
liarities of individual animals, than to make these peculiarities subordinate
to classification. We apprehend that, in adopting this course, we pursue a
natural and interesting mode of communicating a popular knowledge of the
subject. It is frequently better to lead men from the example to the prin-
ciple, than from the abstract principle to the example. This is the mode in
which a practical knowledge is best attained, in all things."

The introduction contains some important remarks on what may be called
the art of deriving enjoyment from subjects of natural history, or indeed
from any subject ; and that is, the art of awakening attention to it. " With-
out a habit of attention to the things around them, men walk about in the
world with their eyes half shut ; for they are insensible to all but the com-
monest external appearances, and have no perception of the minuter pecu-
liarities which distinguish one class of objects from another, of the beauties
of their structure, or of the harmonies of their arrangement." Hunger and
cold are the primary causes of attention to food and dress; but there is no
natural stimulus equally powerful to the acquisition of general knowledge.
How is this stimulus to be given ? By pointing out its pleasures and advan-
tages ; the curiosity which it gratifies, and the distinction which it confers.
To fix the attention of young people it is good to limit it to one thing at a
time. How many boys arrive at the condition of manhood without know-
ing any thing more of a spider than that such an insect exists ; but let the
boy be confined for a week in a naked room, with no other companion than
a spider, and how different will be the interest he will take in the insect,
and the knowledge he will acquire of its habits ! This knowledge will recur
to his memory every time afterwards when he sees any individual of this fa-
mily of insects, and having derived pleasure from them, he will desire to in-
crease this pleasure by further observation, and by research into every thing
connected with spiders. " It is the distinction between the savage and the
civilised man, that the one has no respect for the qualities of the living be-
ings or inanimate substances amongst which he is placed, except as they
minister to his physical wants ; whilst the other, without neglecting their
subservience to his necessities or comforts, views them likewise with re-
ference to all the conditions of their existence j considering each variety
of the whole world of nature, whether separately or in groups, whether in-
dividually perfect or in parts, as affording the most striking illustrations of
the extraordinary adaptation of every existing thing to the purposes for
which it was created."

Whatever makes a vivid impression on the senses excites attention, and
in this view the engravings which illustrate the menageries, and other mo-
dern works on natural history, will not be without their use. They are, in
the little book before us, very well executed, as is the literary part of the
work ; and, from its low price, there can be no doubt of its extensive dif-
fusion, and beneficial influence on those for whom it is intended.

Goring, C. R., M.D., and Andrew Pritchard: The ^Natural History of se-
veral New, Popular, and Diverting Living Objects for the Microscope,
with the Phenomena presented by them under Observation, &c. &c. ;
conjoined with accurate Descriptions of the latest Improvements in the
Diamond, Sapphire, A planatic, and Amician Microscopes; and Instruc-
tions for Managing them, &c. &c. To which is added, a Tract on the
newly-discovered Test Objects. Illustrated by very highly finished co-
loured Engravings, from Drawings of the actual Living Subjects. No. I.
London. 8vo, pp. 32, coloured plates.
In the preface microscopic science is ably vindicated from the sarcasms of

the ignorant. The first chapter contains practical remarks on microscopes ;

the second, on the larva and pupa of a straw-coloured plumed Ciilex or

gnat ; and the third, on the larva and, chrysalis of the Ephemera margi-

o 3

1 90 Lindlei/s Syjiopsis of the British Flora,

nalis. The drawings to illustrate these chapters 'are most beautifully "en-
graved and coloured.

The following is a description of the larva and pupa of the plumed gnat :
" The transformation," says Mr. Pritchard, " of this animal from the larva
to the pupa is one of the most singular and wonderful changes that can be
conceived ; and, under the microscope, presents to the admirer of nature a
most curious and interesting spectacle. Although the whole operation is
under the immediate inspection of the observer, yet so complete is the
change, that its former organisation can scarcely be recognised in its new
state of existence.

" If we now compare the different parts of the larva with the pupa, we
remark a very striking change in the tail, which, in the previous state of
being, was composed of twenty-two beautifully plumed branches ; while, in
the latter, it is converted into two fine membranous tissues ramified. This
change appears the more remarkable, as not the slightest resemblance can
be discovered between them ; nor can any vestiges of the former tail be
found in the water. The partial disappearance of the shell-like bodies is
another curious circumstance. The two lower of them, it may be conjec-
tured, go to form the new tail, for if the number of joints be counted from
the head, the new tail will be found appended to that joint which was nearest
them in the larva state. The two small horns which form the white-plumed
antennae of this species of gnat, when in its perfect state, are discernible in
the larva folded up under the skin near the head. The alimentary canal
appears nearly to vanish in the pupa, as in that state there is no necessity
for it; the insect then entirely abstaining from food j while, near this canal,
the two intestinal blood-vessels seen in the larva have now become more
distinct, and are supplied with several anastomosing branches.

" During the latter part of the day on which the drawing was taken, the
rudiments of the legs of the perfect insect might be seen, folded within that
part which appears to be the head of the pupa ; and several of the globules
had vanished, those remaining longest that were situated nearest the head.
It may be necessary to observe that the head of the pupa floats just under
the surface of the water ; and the insect, in this state, is nearly upright in
that fluid, while the larva rests its belly or sides at the bottom of the pond
or vessel in which it is kept.

" The circuitous manner in which the Creator appears to form this species
of gnat, and many other of his smaller productions, is truly wonderful. Other
creatures are formed directly either from the egg or the natural womb. As,
however, the Deity does nothing in vain, it may be presumed that He must
have had in view some important object in the preliminary steps through
which these beings have to pass, as from the egg to the larva^ chrysalis, and
perfect insect ; and, however low these minutiae of nature may be held in
the estimation of the unthinking mass of mankind, this most elaborate pro-
ceeding renders it not improbable that they may be deemed by Him the
choicest and most exquisite of His productions. These mysterious creative
operations of nature, as detected and unravelled by microscopes, are surely
grand and capital subjects for observations. I should pity the spirit of the
man who scorned to be amused by inspecting these marvellous metamor-
phoses, and disdained to be informed of the manner in which they are ef-
fected."

Lindley, John, Esq. F.R.S. L.S. and G.S. ; Member of the Imperial Aca-
demy Naturae Curiosorum of Bonn, of the Botanical Society of Ratis-
bon, and of the Physiographical Society of Lund; Corresponding
Member of the Linnean Society of Paris ; Assistant Secretary of the
Horticultural Society; and Professor of Botany in the University o|
London : A Synopsis of the British Flora, arranged according to thf
Natural Orders ; containing Vasculares, or Flowering Plants. Londor
8vo. \os, 6d.

Lindley*s Synopsis of the British Flora. 191

The reasons that have led to the preparation of this book are thus given
in the preface : — " All the British Floras/ with the exception of the Flora
Scotica of Dr. Hooker, have been arranged upon the principles of a system,
which, whatever popularity it may, from particular circumstances, have
acquired, and however useful it may have been found in communicating a
knowledge of the names of things, does certainly not now tend to the
advancement of science, or to an accurate knowledge of things themselves.
Of course I allude to the system of Linnasus ; a system which has almost
disappeared from every country but our own, and which ought now to find
no other place in science than among the records of things whose fame has
passed away. Hence all our British Floras are, in this view of the case,
essentially defective, with the exception already made." Another objec-
tion is the Inaccuracy of the technical language of the British Floras ;
objections, however, to which " the Flora Scotica of Dr. Hooker, and the
Flora Edinensis of Dr. Greville, are honourable exceptions." Finding no
work, therefore, suitable for recommending to the botanical class of the
London University, Mr. Lindley " determined upon preparing a work upon
those principles, of which the greater part of Europe has now become the
advocate, and which might, if destitute of all other merft, at least possess
the recommendation of being commensurate with the present state of bota-
nical knowledge." After noticing the attempt which lie has made in this
work to reduce the language of botany to a uniform standard, " to render
the nomenclature of genera and species conformable to that of Continental
vvriters of the highest authority ; " to introduce some new genera and spe-
cies; and, above all, " to remove the difficulties which at present attend
the study of the natural affinities of plants," he adds, '* but after all that
has been effected in the present case, or that is likely to be accomplished
hereafter, there will always be more difficulty in acquiring a knowledge of
the natural system of botany than of the Linnean. The latter skims only
the surface of things, and leaves the student in the fancied possession of a
sort of information which it is easy enough to obtain, but which is of little
value when acquired ; the former requires a minute investigation of every
part and every property known to exist in plants ; but, when understood,
has conveyed to the mind a store of information of the utmost use to man
in every station of life. Whatever the difficulties may be of becoming
acquainted with plants according to this method, they are inseparable from
botany, which cannot be usefully studied without encountering them." A
second volume is promised on the cellular plants, but is deferred " in the
hope that, ere much time shall have elapsed, some of the uncertainty which
now exists respecting the lichens and fungi will be removed. It may be at
present safely affirmed, that we know nothing of the limits of the; genera
and species of either of these extensive orders."

We shall not enter into the details of this Synopsis, because, after Miss
Kent has completed her introduction to the Linnean System, it will be fol-
lowed by a corresponding introduction to the Jussieuean System ; but to
those who are already prepared for this system, we may safely reconimend
Mr. Lindley's book as by far the best, or rather almost the only book the
English reader could resort to for a knowledge of that system.

We have only one little fault to find with the author, and two of our
correspondents are of the same opinion on the subject as ourselves, viz.
that he has taken no notice of Gray's Natural Arrangement of J^riiisk
Plaiits. This work may not be perfect ; but no man can deny that it is
elaborate, and contains a good deal of originality. It includes both Vascu-
lares andCellulares ; and when the botanical world are informed that a great
part of it was prepared by the lateR. A. Salisbury, one of the earliest promoters
of the study of the Jussieuean System in this country, and one who, in 1819,
was, both in France and Italy, held next in rank among British botanists to
Mr. Brown, they will agree with us in thinking that Mr. Lindley ought

o 4

192

Lindley's Synopsis of the British Flora,

not to have passed it over as though it did not exist. We insert some
of the remarks of two of the correspondents alluded to : —

" Mr. Lindley, in the first page of his preface, asserts that all the works
in illustration of the Flora of Great Britain (except the Flora Scotica of
Dr. Hooker) have been arranged according to the Linnean System ; and at
p. 9. he says * Mani^ genera appear now, for the Jirst time, in an English
Flora.'

" Now taking the English Flora of Smith as the standard, the following
are the genera introduced by Mr. Lindley ; but those against which I have
put a * had already been published in the work of Gray with the same
appellation ; and most of the others, as you will see, have only received
from Mr. Lindley another name. Gray's work was published in 1821.

A'chnodon

Agr6pyrum

Airdchloa

Alliaria

Ammophila

Anacamptis

Anemagrostis

Antennaria

Arctostaphyloa

Armaria

Arrenatherum

Barbar^a

Blysmus

Brachypodium

Calamagrostis

Calystegia

Caps^Ua

Carrichtera

Catabrosa

Catopodium

CentrSnthus

Chamagrdstis

Chondrflla

CondyIocarpu&

Corydalis

Coryndphorus-

Cotoneaster

Cytisus

Deschampswr

Digraphis

Diplotaxis

Echinochloa

Erophila

Filago

i^cenfculumr

Gagea

Gastridium

Glyce

Gymnad^nia

Heleocharis

Chil6chloa Graj/.
Koeleria Gray.
Psamma Gray.
Apera Gray.
UVa-U'rsi Gray.

Chaetospora Gray.

rella Gray,
Mibora Gray,

Heleogiton

Helosciadium

Hivcuhis

Holoschce^nus

Hydrochloa

Isolepis

KnautiflE

Larbrea

Leiogyne

Limbarda

Maruta

Meconopsis

Melilotus

Molinia

Muscari

Onobrychis

Ophiurus

Oxycoccus

Oxytropis

Petroselinum

Physosp^rmum

Kingstonia Gray.

Monflia Gray,

Pseudosp^rmuHi
Gray.

Platan th era

Prism atocarpus Legouisa Gray

Pulicaria

Robertson^a

Romen'a

Schenodorus

Sclerochloa

iS'eseli

Setaria

iSilaus

5ilybum

Trichodium

Trigon^lla

Trinia

Trisetum

Valet^ian^lla
Villarsia

Vulpia,

jLibanotis Gray,
Agradlus Gray,

Limnanthes Gray,

^ " In making these remarks I wish it to be clearly understood that I con-
sider Mr. Lindley has much improved the language j and that even after
deducting much of the originality which he claims, the book, from various
circumstances, must be acceptable to the botanists of this country. — C.K.'*

Literary Notices, 193

' " Decandolle has adopted Gray's order Ceratophylleae, and acknowledged
it as Gray's; Mr. Lindley has adopted the order Ceratophylleae, and given,
as an authority for it, Decandolle : as well might he have quoted from De-
candolle one of Robert Brown's orders, and given Decandolle as an au-
thority. — Z)."

Hooker, W.J., L.L.D. F.R S. and L.S. &c. &c. and Regius Professor of
Botany in the University of Glasgow : Botanical Miscellany, intended to
comprise Figures and Descriptions of new, rare, or little-known Plants,
from various Parts of the World, particularly of such as are useful in
Commerce, in the Arts, in Medicine, or in Domestic Economy. London,
No. I. 8vo, 24 pis. 10*. bds.

A slight glance at this work enables us to say that the plates are beau-
tifully drawn and coloured; when No. II. appears we shall enter into
details.

Hinton, John Howard, M.A. : Elements of Natural History, or an Intro-
duction to Systematic Zoology; chiefly according to the Classification
of Linnaeus, and aided by the Method of Artificial Memory. London.
4to, 5 plates.

A very curious and clever work, in which an attempt is made to impress
the Linnean classes and orders of the animal kingdom on the memory, by
the application of the system of mnemonics of Feinagle (Jackson's we
think better). It is a praiseworthy attempt, and will be useful for children.
Johnston, George, M.D. ; Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons ; Extra-
ordinary Member of the Royal Medical, and Corresponding Member of
the Medico-Chirurgical, Societies of Edinburgh ; and Corresponding Mem-
ber of the Zoological Society of London : A Flora of Berwick upon
Tweed. Vol. I. Phaenogamous Plants. Edinburgh. 8vo.
The arrangement is that of Linnaeus, and the nomenclature that of Smith's
British Flora ; there are plants of each of the 23 classes of flowering plants,
and of 286 genera ; and the work, as far as we have had leisure to look into
it, is at once scientific and interesting from local remark. When the second
volume appears, we hope the author will throw the genera together in
tables, according to the natural system, and in other tables according to
their geological relations.

France.

Saigry et Raspail, MM., distinguished naturalists : Annales des Sciences
d'Observation, compr^nant I'Astronomie, la Physique, la Chimie, la Mi-
neralogie, la Geologie, la Physiologie et I'Anatomie des deux Regnes, la
Botanique, la Zoologie ; les Theories Math^matiques, et les principales
Applications de toutes ces Sciences a la M^teorologie, a I'Agriculture,
aux Arts et a la M^decine. Tome I. Paris, 1829.

This is a new periodical of great promise.

Art. III. Literary Notices.

The Gardens and Menagerie of the Zoological Society delineated, being
descriptions and figures in illustration of the natural history of the living
animals in the Society's collection, is announced to be published with the
authority of the Council, under the superintendence of the Secretary and
Vice-Secretary of the Society. The engravings will be executed on wood
by Branston and Wright, from drawings by Harvey.

A Picturesque Guide through the Regent^s Park, with a description of
the Colosseum, the Zoological Gardens, engravings of the most curious
animals, &c. in a pocket volume, with a plan and thirty other engravings,
is announced.

194

PART III.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. Natural History in Foreign Countries*

FRANCE.

JRepsoducTION of Leeches. — It has been found by M. Pallas^ that after
leeches have been used for medicinal purposes, they are most reproductive.
He puts them into a box with argillaceous earth, six inches deep, at any
time from the middle of August till the end of September. In five months
cocoons will be found, each containing twelve individuals. The cocoons
are, on the outside, light, porous, and woolly, to keep out moisture and regu-
late the temperature; on the inside they are fibrous and dense, enclosing a
thin multilocular pellicle, which contains germs. — Bulletin des Sciences No-
turelles.

As the medicinal leech is a native of Britain, and by no means uncommon
in lakes and pools in marshes, the preceding experiments of M. Pallas might,
perhaps, be turned to profitable account in the breeding of animals in such
extensive demand as leeches. The greater number, it may be supposed, of
the leeches which have been used, die soon afterwards; but if they were
employed as breeders, and since M. Pallas says they are the best breeders,
it would be turning a loss into a considerable profit. — J. R,

Nature of Vegetation at dif event Epochs of the Crust of the Globe. —
M. Adolphe Brongniart has published an interesting paper upon this subject
in the Annates des Sciences Hist. Nat. for November, in which he divides
the time of the formations into four periods ; viz. —

1. The immense numerical predominance of vascular Cryptogamia, that
is to say, 2<'ilices, Characeas, and Lycopodiaceae, and the great developement
of these plants, are the essential characteristics of the first period,

2. The numerical equality of vascular Cryptogamia, of gymnospermatic
Phanerogamia represented by the Coniferae and Monocotyledones, as well
as the least developement of the vegetables of the first of these classes,
appear to be the essential marks of the second period.

3. The third period is particularly distinguished by the predominance of
gymnospermatic Phanerogamia, and particularly of Cycadeae ; the vascular
Cryptogamia hold the second rank, and then an inconsiderable number of
Monocotyledones succeed.

4. Lastly, the fourth period presents us with the vegetables of all the
classes at present existing ; among which, as at this epoch, Dicotyl^dones
are by far the most numerous ; then Monocotyledones, gymnospermatic
Phanerogamia, and, last of all, Cryptogamia and Agamia. The following
Tables, however, will exhibit these interesting views more distinctly : —.

Natural History in Foreign Countries,

Ids

Number of Species of each Genus and Family peculiar to the Four Periods.

Names of the Classes, Fami-
lies, and Genera,

CLASS I
AGA^MIA.
Confe'rv^.
Confervites

A'LGJE.

/''ucoides

CLASS IL

CRYPTOGA'MIA CEL-

LULO'SA.

Mu^sci.
Muscites

CLASS IIL
CRYPTOGA\MIA VAS-
CULA^RIA.

^qiseta'^cejs.

j;quis^tum

Calamltes
Fi'lice*.

Pachypteris

Sphen6pteris

Cycl6pteris

Neur6pteris

Gloss6pteris -

Pec6pteris

Lonch6pteris

Odontopteris

Anom6pteris -

T£Bni6pteris

Clathr6pteris

Schiz6pteris

Sigill^ria -
MarsiliaYe^.

Spheriophyllum
Chara^ce*.

Chira
Lycopodia'^cejE,

Lycopodites

Selaginltes -

Lepidodendron

Lepidophyllum

Ijepidostrobus

Cardiocarpon -

Stigmaria

CLASS IV.

PHANEROGA^MIA GYM-

NOSPE'RMIA.

Cyca'^de^.

Cycadites

Zamia

Pteroph^Uum

Nilsbnia

Mant^llja
Conifers.

P'mus

Taxites

Voltzia

Juniperites

Cupressites -

Thilya

Thuytes

Brachyph^llum -

3d.

4(.2, I Names of the Classes, Fami.
I lies, and Genera.

CLASS V.

PHANEROGA^MIA MO-

NOCOTYLE'DONES.

Nai'*adj3.

Potamophillitis

Zosterites

Caulinites
Pa'lmie.

Palmacites

Flabellaria

Phcenicites

Zeugophyllites

Cbcos

LlLIA^CEiE.

Buckl&ndiar

Clathraria

Smilacites

ConvallarUes

Antholites

CA'NNEiE.

Cannophyllites

Monocotyledones of doubtful
Family.
Endogenites
Culmltes
Sternb^rg?a
Poacltes [-
PalaB(Sxyris

Echin6stachy8 - -
^thoph^Uum -
Trigoncarpum -
Amomocarpum
Musocarpum
Pandanocdrpum

CLASS IV.

PHANEROGA^MIA DI-

COTYLE'DONES.

AmentaYe^.

Carpinus

^^tula

Comptbn?a
Jugla'ndi^.

Juglans
^4ceri'ne^.

^ymphea'*ce«;.
JVymphae'^a

Dicotyledones of doubtful
Family.
Exogen'ites
Phyllites
AntholUhes
Carpollthes -

Vegetables of doubtful Class.
Phyllothfeca -
Annularia
Asterophyirites
Volkmann?a

1st. 2d.

,4th.

sereral
3

many
many,

several

many,

Table exhibiting the Number of the Species of each Class during each Period.

ist.

2d.

3ci

4th.

Present.

1. Aga^mia

4

5

18

13

7,000

II. Cryptoga^mia Cellulo'^sa -

_

2

1,500

III. Cryptoga'mia Vascula'^ria

222

8

31

6

1,700

IV. Phaneroga\mia Gymnospe'rmia -

_

5

S5

20

150

V. Phaneroga^iia Monocotyle'donEs ■

16

5

3

25?

8,000

VI. Phaneroga'^mia Dicotyle'oones -

.

100?

32,000

Vegetables of doubtful class

Total of each Flora

22

-

-

264

23

87

. 166

50,350

196 Natural History in Lo7idon*^

Art. II. Natural History in London.

Zoological Society. — A catalogue of the members has been published,
which includes 1291 names, besides corresponding members. The museum
in Bruton Street has received, and is daily receiving, valuable additions, as
is the garden in the Regent's Park. The extent of this garden has been, in
consequence of the various donations and purchases, considerably increased,
and several neat and appropriate structures are now erecting for the abode
of different specimens. It is a gratifying circumstance that these specimens
are, for the most part, clearly and distinctly named, with the native country
of the animal added. We could wish to see a greater variety of trees,
shrubs, and herbaceous plants introduced, and equally clear names and geo-
graphical indications placed at them also. Why should it not, as far as
practicable, be a botanic garden as well as a zoological garden ? It is much
to be regretted that those who first designed the plantations of the Regent's
Park seem to have had little or no taste for, or knowledge of, hardy trees
and shrubs ; otherwise, as we have before remarked, this park might have
been the first arboretum in the world. Instead of the (about) 50 sorts of
trees and shrubs which it now exhibits, there might have been all the 3000
sorts, now so admirably displaying their buds and leaves, and some of them
their flowers, in the arboretum of Messrs. Loddiges at Hackney. A walk
round that arboretum, at this season, is one of the greatest treats which a
botanist can enjoy, and a drive round the Regent's Park might have been
just as interesting. It is not yet too late to supply this defect, and the ex-
pense to Government would be a mere bagatelle. The Zoological Society,
in the mean time, might receive contributions of herbaceous plants, and be
at the expense of planting and naming them.

Linnean Society. — March 3. Read. A continuation of Mr. Don's paper
on the Compositae of South America.

March 17. Read. A paper on the fig trees of Jamaica, by James
Mac Fadyen, Island Botanist : communicated by H. T. De la Beche, Esq.
F.R.S. &c. This paper describes six species indigenous to Jamaica. The
genus is divided into two sections, accordingly as the fruit is sessile or pe-
dunculated. Under the first are enumerated F. Simpsoni and F. cordifolia ;
under the second, i^^.jamaic^nsis, F. viridis, i^.americana, and i^. lentiginosa.
The author states that the four species are new, and that the characters
of the rest had never before been properly investigated.

Some remarks by Mr. Bicheno on the geographical and geological dis-
tribution of the plants of Britain were also read : and the reading of Mr.
Don's paper was continued. The head and horns of a remarkable species
of the buffalo {Bos A'rni) from India, and also a variety of the fallow
deer (Cervus Dama), were presented to the Society's museum. The
Meeting then adjourned for a month.

April 7. Read. A paper by the Rev. Patrick Keith ; the object of
which was to prove that the sap of plants has the power of producing
buds ; or, at least, that this is the case in a great number of trees. We
should say, it is the case in all trees which will stole when cut over
by the surface, or which will produce suckers or shoots from the root, as
Pyrus, Prunus, Cratae'gus, ZJImus, Pilia, &c. Mr. Keith illustrated his
paper by a drawing of a fragment of lime tree, in which two young shoots
were protruded from the lip of a wound. We have now before us a
piece of a shoot of the common elm of about 18 in. in length, and half
an inch in diameter, in which four such shoots are growing from the lip of
the cut or section, on the upper end. This elm stick, as it may be called,
was put into a crystal jar, as a perch for our Pana arborea (p. 79.) on the
16th of January last; there is a little water at the bottom of the jar, which

Natural Histoid in the English Counties, 197

keeps it moist." It has not "thrown out a single fibre, nor formed much of
a callosity at the lower cut or section ; but at the upper section the
callous is large with four small shoots, and the different buds in the natural
bark have pushed from 2 to 4 in. in length. The stick and the frog were
examined by several physiologists at the London Institution, March .31st.
Mr. Keith alluded to the opinion of the writer of the article Vegetable
Physiology, in the Library of Useful Knowledge (No. xiv.), on this subject,
as "being inconsistent with the facts stated. The circumstance of the
common thorn and of the elm and many trees producing shoots from
cuttings of the roots is, in our opinion, quite decisive of the power of the
sap or blood of plants to form buds generally ; but some trees require a
more powerful excitement to do this than others, and some, as the pine
and fir tribe, are exceptions.

Geological Society. — Jan. 1 6. Read. An Appendix to Mr. De la Beche's
paper on the Geology of Nice, by the Rev. W. Buckland, D. D., &c.
After bearing testimony to the correctness of the description given by Mr.
De la Beche of the immediate neighbourhood of Nice, the author com-
municates his own observations made along the high road from that city to
the Col de Tende, for the distance of about fifty miles.

Dr. Buckland infers that the lower part of the calcareous deposit near
Nice is the older Alpine limestone ; as is the opinion of M. Risso. On
the authority of that gentleman, Professor Buckland remarks that near
the source of the Var the older Alpine limestone contains gypsum, with
sulphur and salt springs; and he thinks it probable that the gypsum
found near Vinaigre and Requiez, and at Cimiez, belongs to this formation,
rather than to the younger Alpine limestone, to which Mr. De la Beche
refers it. A similar developement of the new red sandstone is seen between
Toulon and Frejus, accompanied with gypsum, saccharine dolomite, rauch-
wacke, and conglomerate.

Read, also. Observations on the mountain Ben Nevis, and on some
other places in Scotland.

Art. III. Natural History in the English Counties.

Kent.
A Male Spermaceti Whale, Phi/seter catbdon {hatOy below, odouSy a tooth ;
teeth in lower jaw only) Lin. — Sir, Most of your readers are acquainted
with the character of the whale, his voracity, strength, and enormous size ;
but few of them can have had, or probably ever will have, an opportunity
of seeing this truly gigantic and stupendous fish. Such an opportunity,
however, has lately occurred. A male spermaceti whale had, for some
weeks, been observed moving around the coasts of Essex and Kent, when,
on Monday last (Feb. 16.), it was perceived near Whitstable (a small fish-
ing-town, about six miles from Canterbury), in an apparently exhausted and
debilitated state. Some fishermen, therefore, went boldly in quest of him ;
and, after a short but perilous hunt, drove him within half a mile of the
shore, where the wearied animal, having in vain attempted to escape, rolled
himself on his back, and almost instantly expired. He measured 62 ft. in
length, and 16 ft. in height; a size, I believe, by no means large, some hav-
ing been caught in the northern seas upwards of 100 ft. Two harpoons
were found sticking in his back, which seemed to be very much bruised,
owing, probably, to the shallowness of the water in which he had been so
long confined. The stench arising from the dead body was almost intoler-
able, and was smelt at three miles' distance from the sea. I might here;
enlarge on the curious method of cutting the flesh, extracting the oil, &c.,

198 Natural History in the English Counties.

but I have already trespassed too long on your valuable pages, and shall,
therefore, merely observe in contlusion, that the plates and descriptions, by
Bewick and others, are, as far as I could judge from a short but minute
inspection, perfectly correct. I am. Sir, &c. — Perceval Hunter. King-
stone Rectory i near Canterbury y Feb. 19. 1829.

Capture of a Cachalot on the south Coast. — On the 1 5th of February a
fine spermaceti whale was captured at Whitstable ; and such an occurrence
being very rare on our coasts, at your request I proceed to state the in-
formation respecting it which I have been able to collect j truly regretting,
from the imperfect knowledge of these giants of the waters possessed by
our naturalists, that none appear to have been able to avail themselves of
so excellent an opportunity of removing the many doubts and difficulties
respecting the external figure and anatomy of the animal.

The only detailed account of its capture which has been presented to
the public has been given in the Essex Herald, and that is in some par-
ticulars at variance with others, derived from persons' who profess to have
been eye-witnesses.

According to the first authority, the whale was seen approaching some
dredging boats in comparatively shallow water, and the fishermen instantly
went in pursuit. Being unprovided with weapons, they threw their anchors
on him; and the crew of one boat, of 11 tons' burthen, had the temerity to
sail over him ; upon which he rose and lifted it above the surface. In this
strange warfare fortunately no injury was sustained, except by the whale,
whose back retained the traces of the vessel's passage. The fishermen for a
long time persevered, and at length harassed him so much that he was
driven into shallow water, on the Grass Bank, upon which he threw him-
self on his back; in which position he continued to bellow loudly until he
expired. With the night tide he was floated by a warp upon the rock.

A Whitstable boatman at Billingsgate has communicated to me the fol-
lowing additional and rather varying particulars : — The whale was first
observed in shallow water (on the Uth) off the Essex coast. He was im-
mediately attacked by two boats, the men in which trying to kill or disable
him, commenced by destroying his sight, and also thrust a sharp bar of
wood into the abdomen, which, by the agonised efforts of the animal, was
instantly and forcibly ejected, followed by a large quantity of blood. They
then attempted to secure him by two very strong cables, and with another
fastened a small anchor to his tail. The cables were speedily snapped, and
the leviathan broke from his pursuers, but only to meet a more certain fate
on the opposite shore. The Whitstable men were more fortunate, the
whale becoming stranded upon their coast, and assisting to destroy himself
by his tremendous efforts to escape into his native element from the inces-
sant persecutions of his new enemies, who endeavoured to kill him by
wounds in every accessible part of his body. The noise of his floundering
upon the shingles was compared by our informant to that of all his bones
being broken, which, added to his bellowing, was as terrible to the ear as
the sight of so vast an animal, exerting his utmost power in a struggle for
existence, was to the eye. It was the opinion of this person that he ulti-
mately died from the exhaustion occasioned by his unavailing efforts. The
first intention of the captors was merely to disable him, and tow him up
alive to London, where they would doubtless have reaped from his ex-
hibition a rich reward for their perilous exertions.

Mr. Gould, who went to Whitstable some days after the death to secure
and prepare the skeleton for the Zoological Society, has kindly favoured me
with all the information he was able to procure on the spot. He was
informed that the whale was left by the tide in only 8 ft. of water on the
Essex coast, in which situation he was seen by the master of a French ship,
who immediately put off to attack him. He was then so much exhausted
by beating about in shallow water, as quietly to suffer a small cable to be

Natural History in the English Counties, 199

attached to his tail, and thus promised to become an easily conquered prize.
He was forthwith fastened to the vessel and taken in tow. In about half
an hour, however, the tables were turned, the deep water having by that
time so much renovated his power, that it was soon apparent he was the
stronger swimmer of the two, as he actually towed the ship stern foremost
a considerable distance. This trial of strength between two such large
floating bodies, so slightly connected, could not last long ; the cable broke,
and he regained his liberty. Respecting his ultimate capture and death,
Mr. Gould's account differs but little. The whale lay upon his side, and
not upon his back ; which position Mr. Gould thinks it impossible for him
to assume, from the sharp ridge of the dorsal hne. His death was promptly
effected by a seaman in the preventive service, who had served on board a
whaler, thrusting a spear in a proper direction, and putting an instantaneous
stop to his sufferings.

This whale, which was a male, belongs to that subdivision of the ceta-
ceous animals which are distinguished by their heads being, in appearance,
enormously disproportioned to their bodies, occupying about one third of
the entire length. Of these there are only two genera, the Physeter, or
cachalot, and the ^alae'na, or whalebone whale; and it is to the former
that the individual in question belongs. Although these huge monsters of
the deep are found occasionally in almost all seas, and migrate, in a limited
manner, at 'particular seasons, they very rarely approach the temperate
coasts of Europe, their principal locality being the Frozen Ocean. The
following instances of their so doing are, however, on record : — A cacha-
lot was seen off the Kentish coast in 1769 ; during the life of Sir Thomas
Brown (who died in 1774), a very large one was stranded on the coast of
Norfolk; in March, 1784, thirty-two young ones were cast on shore, during
a violent gale, near Audierne, in France ; and, about twelve years ago, a
small one was captured in the river Thames, just above Gravesend.

The present subject of consideration may be considered as nearly full
grown, being 65 ft. in length, and 36 ft. in circumference. In Griffith's
translation of Cuvier's Rbgne Animal^ upwards of 70 ft. is mentioned, as
their usual length, and 52 ft. 3 in. as their circurgference ; yet, I believe,
they are seldom captured exceeding in size the subject of the present
article; and it is rather singular, unless a different species had been measured,
that Mr. Griffith assigns 1 5 ft. as the length of the lower j'aw, which was
precisely that of our smaller specimen. The whale in question yielded
9 tons of oil and a considerable quantity of spermaceti : much of both
was, however, unfortunately lost, by oozing out of the wounds, in the in-
terval between its death and fiencing^ as the cutting up is termed by the
whale fishermen. The value of the oil is stated to be 80/. per ton, making
the animal worth 720/., exclusive of the spermaceti. As soon as the prize
was secured, the fortunate men despatched one of their comrades to towli,
to oflPer it for sale for 200/. It is said that he succeeded in his mission,
but, by some accident, not returning at the time expected, it was sold to
Messrs. Enderby and Sturge, of Thames Street, for 60 guineas, the first
purchaser relinquishing his claim ; and copj)ers being erected on the beach
by Mr. Sturge*s men, the operation of cutting up and boiling the blubber
commenced five days after its death : but, even in that short interval, the
internal parts had become so insufferably putrid, that the intestines, which
were three cart-loads, were carried away and spread on the fields as manure.
Mr. Gould afterwards examined these exuviae, in the hope of discovering
ambergris, but was disappointed. This recalls to mind the quaint observation
of Sir Thomas Brown upon a similar occasion, as quoted by Dr. Shaw in
his General Zoology (vol. ii. part ii. p. 500.) : " In vain it was to rake for
ambergriese in the paunch of this leviathan, as Greenland discoverers and
attests of experience dictate that they sometimes swallow great lumps
thereof in the sea, insufferable foetor forbidding that enquiry ; and yet, if, as

200 Natural History in the English Counties

Paracelsus encoiirageth, ordure makes the best musk, and from the most
fetid substances may be drawn the most odoriferous essences, all, that had
not Vespasian's nose, might boldly swear here was a fit subject for such
extractions."

Messrs. Enderby and Sturge liberally gave the men 40 guineas in ad-
dition to the original bargain, and they also realised 40/. by exhibiting the
whale on the beach ; so that the crews of the boats (which, according to a
second account in the Essex Herald,were seven in number) were eventually
well recompensed for their trouble and risk. The skeleton was presented
by those gentlemen to the museum of the Zoological Society; but govern-
ment having put in a claim to the " royal fish," the whole proceeds of it
are under arrest, and the bones now lie whitening on the shore.

Although resembling a fish in their form and in being entirely confined
to an aquatic life, the whales, in common with the dolphins and narwhal, are
similar in formation and consequent habits, reproduction, &c., to terrestrial
quadrupeds, except that they are deficient in hinder extremities, having
only rudiments of the pelvic bones, not attached to the spine, and having
some of the muscles proper to the thighs, &c. united to form the tail, which
is of amazing power, and so deadly a weapon of offence, that a large boat
has been upset by a single blow with it. Their ribs (which are fourteen in
number in the spermaceti whale) are of course large, but not remarkably
thick. One of them is exhibited in St. Mary's church, Redcliffe, near
Bristol, as that of the dun cow slain by Guy, Earl of Warwick ! The an-
terior extremities, although appearing externally like fins, the office of which
they serve, are composed of the same bones as those of other Mammalia,
but those of the arm and fore-arm are short and flattened, and the latter
possess no power of rotation. The bones of the wrist are also flattened,
and joined together by cartilage ; there is no opposable thumb, and the
phalanges of the fingers are unequal in number.

The heads of these animals offer the most remarkable departures, in form
and structure, from the usual type. Both in the whales and cachalots they
are of enormous and uncouth size : hence the specific appellation of the
latter is Macroc^phalus. In them they are abruptly truncated in front,
from which character is derived the common name, blunt-headed. From
the head the body tapers gradually to the tail (which is broad, and placed
horizontally), having, like fish, no proper neck, the seven cervical vertebrae
being very thin, and crowded together so as to form virtually but one bone.
From this description of the outline of the animal, it is evident that it is a
complete wedge; but, in contradiction to the usual laws of mechanics, this
wedge, or cone, moves with its base foremost, and, which is most astonish-
ing, proving how seldom analogical theories should be implicitly relied on
when applied to vital action, moves with the most astonishing rapidity,
literally glancing through the yielding water like lightning through the
air. This shows the utility and application of the powerful tail.

This particular formation of the head affords room for that remarkable
deposit of spermaceti which is contained between two large rising plates,
composed of expansions of the frontal, temporal, and occipital bones. The
space between these plates is divided longitudinally into two parts, which,
from their vast size, have been aptly compared to caverns. This peculiar
secretion has been ignorantly mistaken for the brain, the place of which
it apparently occupies, that organ being very small, and situated far back in
the head.

Viewing the cranium, when divested of its integuments, &c., as seen in the
beautiful preparation of the skeleton in the Jardin des Plantes at Paris, and
in one of a head only in the British Museum, this space is not unlike the
body of a large gig, or cabriolet. In this the greater portion of the sper-
maceti is contained in a fluid state during the animal's vitality, and mixed

Natural History in the English Counties, 201

with a small portion of oil ; upon standing some time it concretes into
nearly a solid mass. The head of the Whitstable whale was, as it were,
tapped by driving a bar of wood into it, and the spermaceti flowed out in
a full stream. This substance is likewise diffused through various parts of
the body in a chain of membranous sacs, which communicate with each
other like the air cells of birds; and is also, in small proportion, mingled
with the general oil of the blubber.

The spiracles, nostrils, or breathing holes, form another remarkable cha-
racter of the Cetacea; but their structure, which enables the animals to
blowt or eject water in a fountain, when they rise to the surface to breathe,
is too well known to need description. In the present species they unite
into one canal, which opens near the muzzle. After being wounded, much
blood was mixed with the water spouted by our unfortunate animal.

The mouth, also, affords several marked peculiarities. In the ^alae'nae
the place of teeth is supplied by an apparatus which can by no means
answer a purpose at all similar. This consists of a number of fringe-like
plates on each side of the upper jaw. These plates constitute the tvhale-
bone of commerce: their number sometimes amounts to 500. The ca-
chalot, on the contrary, is furnished on each side with from nineteen to
thirty, according to its age, of strong but short and comparatively blunt
teeth; but even here an anomaly exists, they being found in the lower jaw
only. The upper is covered with a callous gum, as hard as cartilage, and
its edge is indented in sockets for the reception of the teeth of the lower.
Arguing theoretically, it has been supposed that this structure is only fit
for crushing the shells of crustaceous animals ; but the cachalots are, un-
fortunately for this hypothesis, well known to be truly and tyrannically
carnivorous, seizing every thing in their way, and, in the words of an author *
before quoted, " covering the seas with blood, and pursuing their prey with
a bitterness and pertinacity that has scarcely any parallel in animated
nature; " in fact, being the insatiate tigers of the ocean. If this predacious
habit were, indeed, a disputed question, the present specimen would not tend
to decide it, as in his stomach was found only a little fucus, which he had
probably snatched in haste from the surface of the waves, with the vain
hope of satisfying his hunger and exhaustion, during his painful and pro-
tracted chase.

We have had the opportunity of inspecting an eye of this animal at the
Zoological Society, and find it precisely according with the descriptions
given of it by Cuvier and other comparative anatomists. Its structure is
extremely curious. The longest diameter of the whole globe, which is
flattened anteriorly, does not exceed 3 in., and that of the iris little more
than one. The cavity containing the crystalline and vitreous humours is
small and completely spherical, the great bulk of the eye being composed
of the sclerotic coat, which is as dense and hard as cartilage. The lens is
not larger than that of a haddock, and is spherical like those of fish. The
optic nerve is the size of a goose quill, and is singularly surrounded by a
very peculiar, soft, spongy substance, like finely reticulated cellular mem-
brane. This substance is rather more than an inch in diameter, and is
enclosed in a sheath as dense as the coat of an artery. The muscles of the
eye are not distinct as in quadrupeds, but surround the whole ball like a
purse, radiating from behind the edge of the cornea. The whole anterior
part of the eye was destroyed.

We have few additional particulars to add, and those are from the
observations of Mr. Gould. The eyes were sunk into, or rather surrounded
by, blubber of nearly a foot in thickness (they were probably driven into
that situation by the efforts of the fishermen to blind the animal); the

* Grifiith.
Vol. II. -- No. 7. v

2D2 Natural History in Irelaiid,

mouth was long and narrow; the palate smooth; the roof of the mouth
high and arched ; the tongue according with the shape of the cavity it had
to fill ; the stomach simple; the heart about 3ft. across ; and the aorta, of
which a section is preserved at the Zoological Society, 15 in. in diameter.

From these dimensions of the parts composing the fountain of life, we
can feel no difficulty in giving credence to the apparently extraordinary
calculations that have been made respecting the circulation of the whale.
Dr. Hunter tells us (in the Phil. Trans,) that " ten or fifteen gallons of blood
are thrown out of the heart at a stroke with an immense velocity :" upon
which Paley observes, " the aorta of a whale is larger in the bore than the
main pipe of the water-works at London Bridge ; and the water roaring in
its passage through that pipe is inferior in impetus and velocity to the blood
gushing from the whale's heart.'*

We must now take leave of the subject, trusting that, should such
another visitor approach our coasts, care will be taken to obtain at least a
good figure, which, from the insuperable difficulties that surround those
who seek them in their native haunts, perhaps does not exist of any of the
larger cetaceous animals. — Henry Woods, A.L.S. ^c. J^?n7 9. 1829.

Art. IV. Natural History in Ireland.

Natural History in Belfast. — ^The town of Belfast, though containing
little more than 40,000 inhabitants, possesses two literary establishments
of public foundation : the " Academy," founded in 1786, and the "Aca-
demical Institution," founded in 1810. From the similarity of the names,
the constitutions, and the original objects of these two seminaries, they
are frequently confounded by persons living at a distance. Mr. James
Bryce, who is at the head of the mathematical department of the Academy,
has lately introduced into his course of geography a series of lectures
on mineralogy and geology. His pupils, lads from eighteen to twelve
years of age, became exceedingly interested in the subject; some of them
attended, as visitors, the meetings of the Belfast Natural History Society, an
institution mentioned in a former Number of your work (Vol.1, p. 85.), and at
■length, one morning at the close of a lecture, they astonished their teacher
by a proposal that they should form a Natural History Society for the
Academy. The idea was cordially taken up by Mr. Bryce, and the consent
•of the Principal of the Seminary being joyfully given, the Society was insti-
tuted. Its objects are, to give mutual instruction in the various branches
of natural history, and to form a museum for the Academy. Its consti-
tution is almost a copy of that of the Belfast Natural History Society.
Its meetings are held on alternate Wednesdays in the Academy library,
where the specimens are kept ; a separate apartment not having been as
yet provided for the museum. Mr. Bryce, himself a very young man, is

E resident of the Society, and an ordinary member; and reads his paper in
is turn. The writer of this article was present at one meeting of this
juvenile association, when, Mr. Bryce being to read, the chair was occupied
by one of the vice-presidents, a very manly, gentleman-like, yet modest
lad of about fifteen, and the whole business was carried on with as much
decoruin and propriety as could have been observed by the gravest assem-
bly in the land. Mr. Bryce intends soon to enlarge his lectures, and
instead of confining them to his own geographical pupils, to give the in-
habitants of Belfast generally an opportunity of attending them.—/. MA,
Belfast, April 9. 1829.

Calenda)' of Nature.

.^OS

Art. V. Calendar of Nature,
Scotland.

Diagram, showing the Motion of the Mercury in the Barometer, Ther-
mometer, and Differential Thermometer, or the mean, for each ten days
of January, February, and March, 1829; as extracted from the Register
kept at Annat Gardens, Perthshire, N. lat. 56° 23^', above the level of
the sea 172 ft., by the mean of daily observation at 10 o'clock morning
and 10 o'clock evening. (It may be proper here to correct an error in
the notice of the meteorological table kept here, in last Number, p. 94.,
where the latitude is stated to be " 56° 35|V' in place of 56"^ 25\'.)

An unaccountable difference appears between the mean temperature of
last year, by the register kept at this place, and that kept at Wycombe
Bucks by Mr. Tatem, where the difference in favour of a higher temper-
ature is more than 4i° of S. lat. in favour of Wycombe, and which,
according to Mayer's formula, supposing the height above the level of the
sea of both places to be the same, should give about 5° of higher tem-
perature at Wycombe than at Annat Gardens, but, in place of this, the
annual average is reported to be nearly 2° lower.

As I conceive it to be of much importance to the science of meteorology,
as well as the credit of your publication, that such discrepancies should be

p 2

204 Calendar of Nature,

noticed, and, if possible, avoided in future, Mr. Tatem will excuse me for
submitting the method by which I keep my register, and my reasons for
adopting this mode. The mean temperature at 10, morning and evening,
has been found to coincide nearly with the mean of the daily extreme*
(see Brewster's Encyclopcedia, art. Meteorology, p. 159.): from 1822, I
have kept a register on this principle, and I have always found the mean
annual result to be within a small fraction of a degree with registers kept
with the utmost correctness at Kinfauns Castle. Last season, the annual
mean at Kinfauns Castle was nearly |» above that at Annat Gardens ; but
this may be accounted for, partly from Kinfauns being 32 ft. lower, and
every way better sheltered than this place, though in the same parallel of
latitude. The annual mean, by Mayer's formula, of Wycombe should, be
about 52°, and his formula I have found, in many instances, to approxi-
mate very near to the true mean. If Mr. Tatem takes the mean of any
one hour, without referring to the mean of the daily extremes, it may ac-
count for the difference ; at any rate, the propriety of avoiding such differ-
ence by your meteorological contributors, and of their acting on the same
principles in furnishing their observations, will apologise to Mr. Tatem for
the liberty I have thus taken, and may induce him to favour us with his
remarks on the subject. The calendar which that gentleman has furnished
is such as to render it impossible to doubt the accuracy of his observations ;
the difference must be in the modes in which we take them. After this
long digression, I must proceed to explain the diagram : h shows the mean
height of the mercury in the barometer, by inches, as expressed on the
right-hand side ; t shows the mean temperature, as marked on the index at
the left-hand side. The month is divided into three parts, and the lines
cross at the mean height of each. The dotted line across each month
shows the mean temperature for that month ; and the dotted line across
the table shows the mean temperature for the three months. The marks

: show the exact height of rain in the rain-gauge, for the division of

time to which it is opposite ; the whole will be given in figures at the end
of the season. The range of the index will suit the whole season, h shows
the dew-point, of which the observations commenced at the beginning of
what is called the vegetating season, the 20th of March.

The mean temperature this season was, in January 5-^°, in February
0^°, and in March 4^%° lower than in the corresponding months of last
year. The fall of rain is for the same period 5| in., or 2^ in. less than last
season. The coldest day was on the 2 1st of January; mean temperature of
that, 24i° ; extreme cold, 20° ; wind, N. The warmest day for the three
past months was on the 1 5th of February ; mean temperature of that day,
48|°; extreme heat, 5S^\ wind, N.W. The mercury in the barometer was
highest on the 51st of January; height, 29^ in.; wind, N.E. : lowest on
the 17th of March; height, 28^ in. The only loud gales of wind occurred
on the 14th and 20th of March.

Calendar of Nature for the Carse of Goiurie, Perthshire,
January. — In this month, which was announced by a storm of thunder
on the last hours of the old year, there was not a single fresh day. Snow
fell on 10 days; 19 days were cloudy; and 12 clear sunshine. The wind
blew from the north and west, 7 days ; from the west, 3 days ; and from the
east and south-east, 21 days. The vocal songsters of the grove ceased their
notes, except, occasionally, the robin redbreast, when sheltered near the
haunts of men. The high temperature in December had brought the win-
ter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis) above ground, but its petals did not open till
the last day of January.

February. — The temperature of this month being 40°, we have little to
record of the progress of vegetation. The wind blew from the north and
north-west, 18 days; from the east and south-east, lO days; 13 days were

Queries and Answers, 205

cloudy, and 1 5 clear sunshine. Larks began to sing on the loth ; partridge^
were seen in pairs on the 19th; and wood-pigeons were heard cooing on
the 2 2d.

March, — The wind blew from the east and north-east, 20 days ; and
from the west and north-west, 1 1 days. The frost was severe from the
13th till the 18th; on the 15th the mercury in the thermometer fell
to 23^. There were only 4 days on which snow or rain fell ; 12 days were
clear, and 19 cloudy. Peas that were sown on the 14th of February
gave a braird on the 31st of March, a period of 45 days; mean tempera-
ture of that period, 40^. Rooks began to build on the 6th, regardless
of the cold, the same day on which they were noticed to begin last year.
The ^axifraga oppositifolia opened its beautiful flowers here on the 20th,
16 days later than last season. Apricots on walls are not quite so full in
blossom on the 31st, as they were last season on the 12th. Daffodils and
marsh-marigold remain to be noticed next month. Wild geese have been
rising in flocks within the last three days, attempting to wing their way
northward to their summer quarters; but, on observing the snow-clad
hills, they wheeled about, and have again settled in the Low Carse. — A, G.
Annat Gardens, March 31.

Art. VL Queries and Anstvers.

Lists of Engravings. — If, in your future Numbers, you would, when
reviewing zoological works, exhibit a list of the engravings which they
respectively contain, you would, by so doing, render your Magazine addi-
tionally useful, and would confer, at the same time, a particular favour on,
I am persuaded, a numerous class of your country readers, who must have
often felt the same inconvenience, in this respect, with myself. The works
to which I more particularly allude are such as the Zoological Journal,
Sellfi/'s Ornithology^ Selby and JardirHs General Ornithology, Griffith''s
Edition of Cuvier, Sivainson's Zoological Illustrations, &c. &c. — A. C. R.
March 31, 1829.

The Guinea-pig (Cavia Cobaya). — What are the colour and habits of
this animal, in its wild state ? It was known to the Romans, and, I believe,
it is also a native of South America, but this is all I know, — C. Lamb.
March 5.

Donovan's Eggs of British Birds. — Have any more than four numbers of
this work come out, and is it to be continued ? I have heard nothing of it
since Feb. 1827. — ^. C. R. [See the answer to J. D. Salmon below.]

British Birds* Eggs. — Which is the best work, with coloured plates, on
British birds' eggs, and, at the same time, the cheapest ? Are the plates
of the Ovarium Britdnnicum, by George Graves, Esq. F. L. S., well
executed ? — J. D. Salmon.

I am sorry to be obliged to say there is no English work on birds' eggs
that I can venture to recommend. Mr. Lewin's is expensive, somewhat
incorrect, and, unless one of his very early and best copies can be procured,
but very badly coloured. The Ovarium Britannicum of Mr. Graves, only
part i. of which has appeared that I am aware of, and that so long ago
as 1816, contains but a small portion only of our British birds' eggs, and
but imperfectly executed. Mr. Donovan has published four numbers, at
5s. 6d. each, of a work on British birds' eggs, containing about seventeen
in the whole, and not on that account only somewhat objectionable. The
l?est work on eggs, that I am acquainted with, is Naumann and Buhle's

P 3

206 Qtieries afid Afiswers.

^SS^ of i^^ ^irds of Germany (with Latin names), five numbers of which
are already published. I obtain my copy from Mr. Wood, 428. Strand,
at about 145. each number. The five 'numbers contain together about 200
eggs. I possess parts only of two other German works on eggs. — W. Y.
March 10. 1829.

Habits of the Kingfsher.—Su\ In the remarks of S. T. P. of Leeds, on
the habits of the kingfisher, in your first Number (p. 23.), is not a cir-
cumstance upon which, I believe, all naturalists do not agree, entirely passed
over, namely, the nest of the bird being made offish bones? This, as far
as one instance may go, I can confirm, having taken a nest whilst at
school. It was situated in the bank of a pool well stocked with fish, in
Shropshire, in a burrow about four feet in length, the end of which
was considerably enlarged, and contained about as many small fish bones
as would fill a quart pot. They were disposed so as to form a nest, in
which were seven beautiful eggs just such as described by S. T. P. with
respect to figure and colour, and of, I think, a large size for the bird.
Whether the burrow was formed by the kingfisher itself, I do no not know,
but am inclined to think it was not, as there were several sand martens*
burrows in the same bank. Yours, &c. — F. Jvly .30. 1828.

Feet and Legs of the common Heron. — Sir, Many years ago an opinion
was held among the fishermen of this neighbourhood, that the feet and
legs of the common heron (^^rdea major) had something in them very
attractive to fishes, and particularly to eels, which enabled that bird, when
standing in water, to congregate his prey about him, and to take it with
greater facility ; it was, therefore, a desirable object, among the fishing
amateurs, to procure such feet and legs and to extract the little oily
matter they contained, wherewith to anoint the worms forming the bait
of, what is here called, a " Reball," with which eels are generally taken. I
have heard but little said of this of late years; probably, it has been dis-
covered to be an erroneous opinion, and may have been only a conjecture,
arising from the observation of the wonderful provision which Nature
generally affords to supply the wants of its creatures, a most striking
instance of which is recorded in the last Number of your excellent Jour-
nal (p. 64.) under the head of " Great American Bittern," where it is said,
that " Wilson has omitted to state a most interesting and remarkable cir-
cumstance attending that bird, which is, that it has the power of emitting
a light from its breast, equal to that of a common torch, which illuminates
the water so as to enable it to discover its prey.'* This has brought to my
recollection, that most, if not all, birds of the J'rdea genus, but especially
the common heron, have on their breasts a considerable space void of
feathers, the place of which is supplied by a well-defined dense tuft of
down, to which is adherent a peculiar farinaceous substance, clammy, and
unctuous to the touch.

It has always appeared to me very strange, that no ornithological writer
which I have consulted has conjectured the use of this appendage, nor
do I recollect having seen its existence very particularly mentioned. May
it not be given to the bird for a purpose analogous to that of the organ
by which its congener, the American Bittern (possibly by some electrical
operation), produces the light, which must be so useful to him in taking
his prey, and perhaps of enticing it within his reach, agreeably to a method
found so successfiil by the fishermen of the Antilles, and of other parts of
the globe ; or is it a conveniently placed repository of oily matter, to be
used for the purpose of smoothing the waters, when ruffled, to enable him
to see how to strike his prey with greater certainty, similar to the well-
known practice of the fishermen of the Mediterranean ? 1 hope some of
your correspondents will make their observations, and give their opinions
on this subject, if you think it worthy of enquiry. I am, Sir, &c. — R. A,'
JBridgewaterj March 20. 1829.

Queries and Afiswet's, 20V

A Species of Plover was shot by my brother last winter, which nearly
agrees in colour with one described by Dr. Tiirton, as a variety of the
golden plover inhabiting the island of St. Domingo ; but I think, from its
superior size and some other distinctive marks, ornithologists might be dis-
posed to make it a separate species. I made a memorandum, at the time,
of its colours, &c., as well as I was capable, which is as follows : — Bill near
an inch long, dark brown ; head, hind part of the neck, back, and covers
of the wings, dark brown tipped with ochraceous, which gives it a spotted
appearance; legs dark, with three toes, which have a membrane extending
to, the first joint, no spur; cheeks, chin, and upper part of the breast,
like the missel thrush ; the remaining part of the breast and belly
white, with large black spots. Length 10 inches ; breadth 21 inches from
the tips of the wings. It is here a scarce bird, and solitary. The golden
plover generally comes here in small flocks. I should be glad to be in-
formed by any of your numerous correspondents (if they can make it out
from this description), whether it frequents any other part of the island
of Great Britain ; and if so, whether single or in small flocks. — Thomas
HaivTcins. The Haw, near Gloucester, June 18. 1828.

European singing Bh^ds in India. — Perhaps some of your correspondents
may be able to inform you whether European singing birds are as highly
valued in the East Indies now, as it appears by the following note of the
prices given for some that they were in January 1782. It is extracted from
an account book of the late James Graham, Esq. of Rickenby, near Carlisle;,
who resided in India above twenty years : 1 1 goldfinches, 66 Racary rupees
(rather more than 2s. each) ; 1 blackbird, 40 rup. ; 1 thrush, 30. rup. ;
1 nightingale, 26 rup. ; 1 lark, 25 rup. ; 5 goolsarahs, 24 rup. Can any of
your readers inform me what kind of birds the last named are, and how
the others thrive in the climate of India? I am, Sir, &c. — W. C. T.
March, 1829.

Scolopax Sabini. — Where could I obtain a coloured representation or any
details regarding the 5c61opax Sabini? — A. C.R. March 31. 1829.

The Bird with a Sound like the Bleating of a Goat. — Sir, For the satis-
faction of your correspondents, J. N. and J. M. (Vol. I. p. 297.), I need only
refer them to Montagu's Ornithological Dictionary, title " Snipe, common,'*
where a description of its habits in the spring will be found recorded almost
in the words of J. N. Lest that useful but now rare book should not be
in the possession of either, I will copy Montagu's description. " In the
breeding season, the snipe changes its note entirely from that in the winter.
The male will keep on wing for an hour together, mounting like a lark,
uttering a shrill piping noise ; then descend with great velocity, making a
bleating sound, not unlike an old goat, which is repeated alternately round
the spot possessed by the female, especially while she is sitting on her nest.*
Only a few of the snipes remain with us the whole year. The provincial
name, heather-bleater, will be found in Montagu's Appendix. Neither the
sanderling nor whimbrel, as supposed by J. M., have, I think, any claim to
the above habits. — J. F. London, Sept. 25. 1828.

y The Bird with the Sound like the Bleating of a Goat. — Sir, In your Maga-
zine (Vol. I. p. 297.) I find that an erroneous answer has been given to your
querist, J. N., respecting the bird called the heather-blite. The bird in
question was, without a doubt, the common snipe ((Scolopax Gallinago
Lin.). As snipes do not leave this country in the breeding season, I have
had frequent opportunities of observing them whilst in the act of making
the peculiar sound alluded to by your correspondent, and which they never
make at any other season. If you will look into Bewick, you will find that
heather-bleater is put down as a provincial name of the common snipe. —
J. G. C. Ballitore^ County Kildare, Dec. 6. 1828.

r 4

208 Queries and Answers*

The Sound of a Bh'd resembling the Bleating of a Goat (Vol. I. p. 25)7.) —
The bird that your correspondent, J. N., is desirous of obtaining the name
of is the common snipe (^colopax Gallinula). Had he applied to any of
his sporting friends, they would have informed him that heather-bleat
(Scotice, biite) is a common provincial name for that bird, and that
they very commonly make the noise which he describes J. M., in
answering J. N.'s query, could scarcely have fixed on two birds more
unlike to each other in their call than Charadrius Calidris and 5c61opax
phae'opus, and in whose call, when I have heard them, I could never per-
ceive the least resemblance to the bleating of a goat. I presume he has
never had the following familiar ornithological puzzle propounded or
expounded to him : —

" The cuckoo and the gowk.
The lavrock and the lark,
The heather-bleat, the muire snipe,
How many birds is that ? " — J. V. S.

Pious mmor andmdximus. — Perceiving that some of your correspondents
have mentioned Picus minor as a bird of extremely rare appearance, I beg
leave to inform them that it may frequently be met with in all the woods
near Leith Hill, a place fully deserving the attention of, and every way
adapted as a residence for, the naturalist. The salubrity of the air, the
soothing music of the neighbouring groves, and the many scarce and
beautiful plants flourishing in the copses, have justly rendered Leith Hill
an object of admiration and delight to all those who have hitherto visited
this romantic and picturesque spot. The nuthatch, so beautifully described
by your correspondent, S. H. (Vol. I. p. 328.), is there often heard hammer-
ing in the woods, and Plcus maximus (the last a name of my own), another
bird that I may probably send you some notice of. I am, Sir, &c. — Per-
ceval Hunter. Dec. 25. 1828.

Derivation of the Name John Dory. — Is it not plain jaune doree as the
French fishermen call it ? — M.

Whiter Quarters of Frogs, (p. 105.) — On the approach of winter, frogs re-
tire from their drier and shady haunts, to ponds, wet ditches, or rivers ; under
the grassy margins of which they sink and lodge themselves among the mud,
out of the reach of frost, and of their natural enemies. In such situations
they may be found congregated in great numbers, remaining inactive till the
return of spring calls them to the important business of procreation. Their
colour becomes much darker during their submersion, and they are then
often mistaken for toads. — M.

The Tick which moved on a deceased Part of itself (p. 105.) — This appear-
ance, in all probability, was only a consequence of the pedicle, which
attaches the thorax and abdomen, being elongated by the force applied in
extracting it from its hold on the dog, and which enabled the body and
legs to turn and surmount the floating abdomen. — M.

Frogs doj^nant du7ing Winter. — Sir, In answer to your querist J. B.
(p. 105.), whether frogs lie dormant during the winter or die, I can
satisfactorily assure him that they do lie dormant ; for I observed, on the
18th of March ult. in a ditch of stagnant water, about a furlong from
the river Ouse, a number of frogs in the act of spawning, they were full
grown and of a dark mould colour. On the 21st, the ditch was frozen over
and not a frog was to be seen, but on the sun thawing the ice, I could
observe them emerging from holes at the bottom of the ditch, which
appeared to penetrate into the bank a considerable distance, so that
there is no doubt but that they lie dormant at the bottom of deep stagnant
ditches ; or they penetrate into ban^s, under water, sufficiently deep to be
out of the reach of frost. As a proof that they do not die during the winter

Queries and Answers, 20^

I believe, according to naturalists, they do not propagate till they are three
or four years old. Again, were they to die during the winter, how could
they be found in companies of several hundreds in the spring, and full
grown? — W. H. White. Bedford, Aprils. 1829.

Distinction of Sex in Frogs, and whether it is the Male or Female thai
croaks. — As I have never been able to perceive any external distinction
between the sexes of frogs, I shall be glad if any of your correspondents
can inform me, whether the male impregnates the eggs before or after
emission. Also whether it is the male or female that croaks, and whether
they croak, according to the old adage, on the approach of wet weather, or
only at the time of spawning. I am. Sir, &c. — PT. H. White, H,M. C. S,
Bedford, April 3. 1829.

A Jelly-like Substance supposed to he the Bemains of Frogs (in answer to
J. B. p. 103.). — Sir, I found a mass of this jelly last winter, together with the
bones of the animal whose flesh had been thus decomposed : I have been in-
formed that at night it is luminous, which is I think very probable. This sub-
stance has, I believe, been sometimes taken for a plant of the genus Trem^lla.
In Withering^ Botany, under the head of T. Nostoc, is the following notice of
it: — "After very severe frost, I have frequently found a gelatinous substance,
which from a careless observation might pass for a Tremella, but it is the
remains of frozen frogs. This substance does not shrivel up in dry weather
as the Tremella does, nor is it plaited and waved ; and^enerally some of
the bones of the frog may be found in it. After the severe winter of 1789,
I found great quantities of these on the edges and in the water of ponds." —
W. C. T. March, 1829.

The Jelly-like Substance in which your correspondent B. (p. 103.) no-^
ticed the remains of the head and feet of frogs, might probably be the
dung of the heron, as I have witnessed something similar by the sides of
ponds visited by those birds. — H. D. Richmond, March 25. 1829.

Psalm-singing to Bees. — Sir, I have made every possible enquiry relative
to the custom of psalm-singing to bees (Vol.1, p. 303.), but have been
hitherto unsuccessful as to the particular circumstance stated, but I have
learnt from apiarians, that such custom does not prevail in this country,
and that the circumstance to which you alluded was an individual super-
ftition.

The apiarians of Bedfordshire have a custom of ringing their swarms with
the house-door key, and the frying-pan, and if a swarm settles on another per-
son's premises, it is not recoverable by the owner, unless he can prove the
ringing, but it becomes the property of that person upon whose premises it
settles. — W. H. White. Bedford.

Ants and Aphides, (p. 104.) — Sir, I have made some further observations
on the aphides found adhering to the root of the endive ; and I have been
much amused by watching them, and the ants attending them. I observed
that the ants first proceeded towards the head, or forepart of the aphis, and
with its head or forceps gently moved the body of the aphis, which imme-
diately commenced a rapid vibratory motion with the long legs proceeding
. from the centre of its body ; it also emitted, from the extreme point of the
abdomen, a pellucid drop of liquid which the ant greedily collected, and
again proceeded to agitate the body of the aphis; taking it gently up with
its forceps, and inducing it to emit another discharge of liquid. The aphis
did not seem to dislike their operations, nor did it attempt to avoid the
ant, but continued to feed quietly. Other ants were similarly employed,
whilst others, 1 observed, disengaged the aphides from the root of the
plants to which they adhered, and carried them to their subterraneous
abode. Though the aphides made considerable resistance, and in point of
size were equal, and often superior, to the ant, yet by perseverance and
greater strength, they were conveyed struggling at every step to the strong
hold of the ant. I removed an aphis some distance from the endive root,

210 Queries and Answers.

and immediately an ant was despatched to fetch it back : I then observed
that the ant was very cautious as to the manner in which it seized the
aphis, evidently carrying it so that it might give the least possible uneasi-
ness to the insect. I several times disengaged it from the grasp of the ant,
which would not be deprived of its prey, but invariably seized the aphis by
the same part of the body (exactly behind the long legs), nor could I pre-
vent the ant from searching for it. At length the ant entirely removed its
prey; and on my disturbing the earth surrounding the endive, I observed
many ants conveying aphides to their cells. I removed one of the roots to
a considerable distance, into fresh mould; carefully destroying every aphis
upon it, amounting to some hundreds. Another root I also removed,
leaving a few aphides attached to it; after a lapse of some days, I looked at
both the roots, and found the first, which I had freed from insects, still with-
out them. They had not increased on the second root, but those that re-
mained were attended by ants, though at some distance from their former
quarters, and there were proceeding as 1 have before described. I had the
curiosity to taste the liquid which seemed to attract the ants, and which
they invariably yielded on being touched, and found it sweet, though
slightly bitter, arising, I have no doubt, from feeding on the endive. I
cannot discover this species of aphis on any qther plant. Query, is this
the puceron of Hubert, of which he gives so interesting a history in his
work on the ant ? Yours obediently. — Walter Hen7'y Hill. Newland,
Sept. 22. 1822.

Aphides on Endive and Lettuce, (p. 104.) — If the insects described by
your correspondent Mr. Hill were environed by a white cotton-like sub-
stance, they are the same species which usually infest the roots of dandelion
Although it cannot be affirmed that " all the aphis tribe produce honey
dew," it is very probable that the excrement of all is of a saccharine
quality. Wherever ants are busy, they are in quest of something edible
(either for themselves or young: and where it is not spontaneously supplied,
they will destroy an insect, or nectariferous flower, to obtain it. — M.
' Wood Leopard. — Sir, In answer to your correspondent A. Mathews
(p. 67.), I beg leave to state that the larva of the wood leopard does change
into a pupa, in the ti^ee just beneath the bark in a thin web. When ready to
change, it forces its way out by means of bristles or prickles on each ring
pointing backwards, so that as it alternately contracts and lengthens itself,
they catch against the sides of its hole, and enable it to push hard enough
to break away the bark into a hole larger than necessary for the escape of
the moth. I observed this in one which had penetrated a garden service
tree ; there were two more larvae in the same tree, which I did not obtain,
but I have now four from a quince tree, two apparently full grown, and
two half grown. Hence I conclude they are two years in a larva state.
In this as well as other respects (size and colour excepted), the larvae of the
wood leopard resemble the larvae of the willow goat, the pupae of which have
bristles on the rings likewise, and for the same purpose. — G. H. Clapton,
March 5. 1829.

A vert/ minute Insect alighted on my coat sleeve ; I think it belongs to
Ephemera, and to the first division of Turton, having three hairs or
bristles. Wings two, hyaline, immaculate ; abdomen white except on the
back, the segments of which are spotted with dark brown ; under part of
the abdomen and legs snow-white; bristles of the tail white; head and
thorax dark. It approaches nearest to the E. halterata than any that I
see in Dr. Turton, who refers to Degeer's Ins. 2. tab. 17. fig. 17 and IS.j
but his description does not exactly agree, neither does he mark it as
a British insect. Length, about a line from head to tail, without the
bristles, each wing about a line in length, and as much in breadth. When
living, the wings being rounded and erect, they are nearly fan-shaped. —
Thomas Hawkins. The Haw, near Gloucester, June 18. 1828.

I

Queries mid Answers. 211^

Larvice of Lepidoptera. — Late in the autumn (October), after two or
three severe frosty nights, I observed hundreds of the larvas of a species of
Papilio or Phalae-'na affixed to the stalks of grass, frozen to death (al-
though in some of them life was not quite extinct). They were smooth
and of a dark brown, nearly black, something the colour of Cologne earth j
the head was of a shining black colour. Can any of your numerous cor-
respondents, from this incomplete description, tell me what species of ca-
terpillar it is ? Does the larva of the meadow butterfly put on this colour
before it changes into the pupa state ? — Id.

A Sea Spider. — Sir, One day last month, as a fisherman on this coast was
dragging up his net, he found an intntder had entangled itself in the meshes
of it ; which said intruder has since been exhibited under the denomination
of a '* Tarantula Sea Spider." It certainly, in many respects, resembles
the spider, but in others materially differs from it. It has eight legs, which
are not jointed; and appear to be similar, both in form and situation, to
the rays of the 5epia officinalis. (Vol. 1. p. 278. fig. 147.) It has but two
eyes, which, when alive, were green, and are placed on the back of the
thorax. It has no head, and is destitute of palpi. The mouth is beneath
the abdomen, and inside of it is a spiral tongue nearly half a yard long, the
extremity of which is armed with a pair of forceps. The spinner is very
large, out of which the exhibiter took a web, but unluckily had thrown it
away. The abdomen is oval, in form a little resembling the ^ranea mar-
ginata. The colour of the insect is that of a pickled tongue, which, pro-
bably, may -be accounted for by the pickle that had been used to preserve it;
namely, of bark, alum, and salt. You may form some idea of its size when I
add, it weighed 5^ lbs. Many wonderful stories are told of it when alive ;
such as that it run with the velocity of a race horse, and changed colour
every instant. The form of it is oval, and the abdomen terminates with a
horny spike, nearly 5 in. in length ; which, when alive, was invisible, Mr.
Murray, the owner of it, intends to exhibit it in London, in about a
month, and he may he heard of at the Bazaar in Portman Street North.
Pray what is it ? I am, Sir, &c. — M. C. G. Margate, Oct. 22.

The Wo7'm found among Herbage by W. W. (p. 103.) — Sir, I have fre-
quently found worms of the same description in puddles after autumnal
showers, and once saw a smaller one twisting round some plants. My opi-
nion has been, that they fall down with the rain; and their appearance
may be accounted for precisely as that of the small frogs mentioned in
the same page of your Magazine, said to have occurred at Rouen. The
largest I have seen measured less than 4 in. when unrolled, and much
resembled a piece of dull-coloured copper wire ; one end of the worm had
a small bristle-like appendage, with a small knob at the end, projecting from
a convex abrupt end, about the twelfth part of an inch long. When cut-
ting they feel hard under the knife ; the inside appears like a white pithy
substance. During motion it was frequently, for half the length, rolled into
small circular rings : while the other half of the length was thrust out into
a very obtuse angle, at about one fourth of its length. Some of the
country people assert them to be animated horse-hairs, which fall from the
tails of horses when drinking, and afterwards become eels ; and it is not an
easy matter to persuade them otherwise. Perhaps some of your corre-
spondents could better describe them, and their species and habits. I have
observed the smaller ones much whiter in colour than the larger. 1 do not
recollect to have seen them in ponds, and can scarce think them intestinal
worms. — H. D. Eichinond, March 25. 1829.

A cio'ions Worm. (p. 103.) — The Gordius aquaticus is as often met with
on the surface of garden or other ground, in wet weather, as it is in water
or clay, its common habitat. — J. M.

The Gordius aquaticus is not unfrequently found to inhabit the intestines
of insects. De Geer mentions these worms being found in grasshoppers.

^12 Retrospective Criticism*

Dr. Mattliey, likewise, mentions one of these worms being found in the
body of a certain grasshopper (-4'cnida viridissima) which was no less than
2^ ft. in length. Wherefore I think it probable that the afore-mentioned
worm was voided by some insect. — C. Lamb. March 3.

Art. VII. Retrospective Criticism,

Lists of Plants. — Sir, Excuse me for hinting that your botanical readers
would be more highly gratified if the botanical not€s (Notulae Botanicae),
in your Magazine of Natural History, were more extensive, and the lists of
rarer plants, sent you from time to time were more selects Of what are
called rarer plants noticed in the vicinity of Bath, not more than about a
dozen are anywhere uncommon ; while, properly speaking, there is hardly
one rare plant enumerated. They are, with the above exceptions, com-
mon in all places where flowers grow, except on the sea-shore or the
rocks of Cairngorum. B'ew of them would be deemed rare at Johnny
Groat's House, or the dismal regions of ultima Thule. But the contribution
of such lists as contain the more uncommon and rare species with their
localities, would be of immense advantage to the botanist, as he might
either visit the places where his favourites are found, or put in requisition
the services of his friends and connections for procuring specimens of them.
Your botanical correspondents might also send queries to be answered by
other correspondents. Thus, "A. B. wishes to be informed, &c., where the
following plants are to be found growing naturally : Pinguicula lusitanica,
Fragaria v^sca, &c. &c." The reply might be as concise as the query :
thus, " Pinguicula lusitanica, Potton Marshes j Fragaria vdsca. Box Hill,
Surrey."

It would also be desirable to have a description of the soil and habitation
in which such plants are chiefly found. This would assist the botanist in
finding them, and enable the florist to cultivate them successfully in his
flower-beds and open borders. Some plants generally grow on a clay soil,
some on chalk or limestone beds, some on sand, others on loam ; some
thrive best in the shade, others in exposed situations. Instead of the unin-
teresting notices of white harebells, violets, &c., which are well known
even to children, the physiological botanist would both amuse and edify us
by describing the characteristics, habitats, and conformation of those plants
which have any thing peculiar in these respects. Facts such as the follow-
ing might, perhaps, be explained and illustrated: — Why the common
primrose (Primula vulgaris) when cultivated becomes double and assumes a
lilac colour, while the oxlip and cowslip (P, elatior and P. veris) retain
their original form and colour under the same circumstances, though indi-
viduals of the same family as the primrose. Why some flowers, such as the
night stock, and some plants of the natural order Orchldeae, are odoriferous
only towards evening or at night. Whether different species of herbaceous
plants can be budded or grafted on the same stem, as different species of
roses can be produced on the same tree. These and many other things of
a like nature would be invaluable to your readers, and put in exercise the
talents and ingenuity of your correspondents. — S. Palmer. Chigwell^ Essex,
Sept. 1828.

The Dog not the only brute Animal that Dreams. — " Dormit auditu acu-
tiore, somniat.'"* (Lin.) In your Magazine, Vol. 1. p. 377. there is an
extract from the Medical Gazette, in which it is stated that " the dog is the

/ " He sleeps with sharper hearing, he dreams.^*

Betrospective Criticism. 219^

only animal that dreams." I do not know how this position can be satis-
factorily maintained, involving, as it does, the necessity of proving a nega-
tive, and being also contrary to what we should a priori expect. The fact
that dogs do dream, I conclude the writer thinks sufficiently established by
the circumstance, so commonly to be observed, of the convulsive motion of
the feet, tail, and jaws, accompanied too, sometimes, with a short bark or
yelping, to which these animals are subject during sleep ; from which it Js
reasonably inferred that they are dreaming of pursuing their prey, &c. ;
and I feel no disposition to deny the conclusion drawn from such premises.
But surely the same may be predicated of cats also, who are subject, in a
high degree, to the very same convulsive motions during sleep, as I have
myself repeatedly witnessed. — W. T. Bree. Allesley Rectory , Nov. 15,
1828.

Mr. Babington^s List of rare Plants in the Neighbourhood of Bath. — A cor-
respondent at Bath has sent you lists of what he calls the rarer plants and
insects found in that neighbourhood : among the plants, I was surprised to
find Campanula rotundifolia, Tiola tricolor, ^Solanum Dulcamara, ^lisma
Plantago, Epilobium hirsutum and parviflorum, Ad6xa Moschatellina,
Biitomus umbellatus, CXxalis Acetos^lla, iychnis dioica, iythrura Salicaria,
JRes^da Luteola, Spivsei'a. Ulmaria, Chelidonium raajus, iVuphar lutea,
Mentha hirsuta, Linaria vulgaris, ^yp^ricum perfoliatum, Tragopogon
prat^nsis, Eupatoriwm cannabinum ; O'rchis morio, maculata, and mascula;
Listera ovata, Typha, latifolia, Humulus Lupulus, T6rtula subulata and
muralis, ^ryum arg^nteum. All these I reckon among our more frequent
plants in this neighbourhood. I am aware that the local Floras vary
according to soil, situation, &c. ; but most of the above plants I considered
common in the greater part of the kingdom, which was the cause of my
surprise.

Of the insects, I am not so able to speak : but Dyticus marginalis and
Nepa cinerea are frequently met with ; Panorpa communis in tliQ greatest
abundance, and iS'phinx /igiistri, Pygse^ra Buc^phala, and A'rctia caja so
often as not to be considered at all scarce. — Daniel Stock. Bungay, Nov.
17. 1828.

Active Molecules. — M. Raspail, a French naturalist, who has taken much
interest in the enquiry respecting the active molecules in the grains of pollen,
has recently published the result of his observations. He will not admit that
these granules are organised bodies, he says they are minute resinous concre-
tions, formed in the fluid ejected from the pollen. When the drop is evapo-
rated they do not change their form j whereas, after evaporation, all animal-
cules collapse. These resinous granules were almost instantly dissolved when
a drop of alcohol was applied' to them. Respecting the spontaneous motion
supposed to be found in all inorganic substances, he says : " Ihave never
discovered the smallest trace of it." M. Raspail mentions some of the
causes of external agitation, which I enumerated in my paper on the sub-?
ject in your last Number ; but the most important one, the existence of
animalcules in river and cistern water, he has omitted. There is a species
of Monas, which Muller says is so small and transparent, that it is exceed-
ingly difficult to throw the light in such a manner as to make them per-
ceptible with the microscope, but at times the whole mass of water seems
full of them ; minute opaque particles, placed in such water, will appear to
be driven about by inherent spontaneous motion.

Dr. Brewster, perhaps the most competent microscopic observer in Eu-
rope, has also published a paper on the subject in the Edinburgh Journal of
Science for April. He says, in examining the grains of pollen, " I have never
perceived a single motion in the least degree characteristic of animal life."
It would have been more satisfactory if Dr. Brewster had also stated the
result of his own observations. On the motions of inorganic molecules, he
considers the question decided by the antecedent improbability of their

214

Retrospective Criticism,

existence. I concur in opinion with Dr. Brewster, from having atten-
tively examined various mineral substances, but I think a naturalist so emi-
nent as Mr. Brown should be answered by facts, and not by conjectures ;
and the more so, as Dr. Brewster's opinion, in the same paper, respecting
a planetary motion of the molecules, will by many be deemed as impro-
bable as Mr. Brown's opinion of their possessing spontaneous motion.
Yours, &c. — Robert Bakewell. Hampsteady Apiil 4. 1828.

Terminology of Birds. — Sir, Your having in your Magazine (Vol. I.
p. 121, and p. 276.) furnished us with the technical names of the various
parts of birds, shows your anxiety that your readers should be well grounded
in the study of ornithology, yet I think your list of names of the various
parts of birds are deficient in arrangement, which renders them more diffi-
cult to commit to memory than they would otherwise be. I have from
these lists arranged one for my own convenience, of which I send you a
copy; in it I have omitted the terms " tridactylos," &c., which are not
names of a part of the animal, but only descriptive of the formation of the
foot. — Thos. Thompson, Hidl^ Sept. 9. 1828. [For more convenient re-
ference, two cuts which appeared in Vol. I. are repeated.]

The principal parts
ofbirds are eight,
. as follows : —

l.R6strum, the bill,
which is divided
'" into 3 parts.

1. Maxilla the upper part of the
bill, which is subdivided into 5<
parts {^fig. 51. a)

'I. Na.res, the nostrils (e)
P^rtrum, the hook {d)

2. Ckput, the head,
which is divided
into 17 parts.

3. C61men the ridge (c)

4. Mesorhinium, the upper rid)

5. Cfera, wax on the bill {fig. 55

2. Mandibula, the lower part of the bill {fig. 51. b)

3. Gbnys, the point of the Mandibula (e)

1. Lbrum, the naked line at the base of the bill {fig. 51. /, and 5i

2. Lingua, the tongue.

3. Fr6ns, the forehead {fig. 51. j)

4. Capistrum, the face {k)

5. Sinciput, the hinder part of the head {m)

6. R^gio opth&lmica, region of the eyes {o)

7. O'culus, the eye.

8. O'rbitaB, the orbits or centre of the eyes {fig. 52. o)

9. Supercilium, the eyebrow (Jig. 51. n)

10. Tempora, the temples (p)

11. Gitna, the cheek {q)

12. Crista, the crest (fig, 52. n)

13. C(Srnua, the horns. *

14. Bkrha, tlie beard (rf)

15. Mentum, the chin (e)

16. Aures, the ears {fig. 51. p)

, 17. Rdgio par6tica, protuberance behind the ear (r)

;e(/)
.a)

lb)

I

Retrospective Criticism,

215

3. C('>llutn,theneck,
which is divided,
into 2 parts {Jig.
51. *).

4. D6rsum, the
back, which is
divided into 5
parts.

'l.C^rvix.the hinder part of the neck,
which includes 2 parts {fig. 51. t).

2. Guttur, the throat, which is
subdivided into 4 parts.

5"!. Nilcha, nape of the neck {fi:r. 51. ti)
(2. AuchSnium, part below the nape (v)
ri. Carnnculae, wattles (Vol. I. p. 124. fig.

5Q. d)
I 2. Gula, the gullet {x)
3. Jdguluin, the lower throat

Interscipulum, between the shoulders ( fig. 51. a)
shoulders (r)
the middle of the back (b)
the scapulars {Jig. 5S. i)
the rump {fig. 51. g, and 52. v)

f 1. Pectus, the breast, (b)
I 2. Axillae, the armpits (t)
5. C6rpus, the body, | 3. Abdbmen, the abdomen (e)

which is divided.^ 4. Hypochondria, the sides of the abdomen (n)
into 7 parts. 5. Epigastrium, the stomach (n)

I 6. Venter, the belly (g)
L 7. Crissum, the vent (i)

, A^la, the wing,
which is divided'
into 7 parts.

' 1. Flextira, the bend of the wing (s)

2. T^ctrices majbres, largest wing-coverts (t)

3. Tectrices mtidire, middle wing-coverts (m) f

4. Tectrices minbres, smallest wing-coverts (n)

5. Primariae, quills (p)

6. R^miges, rowers (q)

, 7. A'lula spCiria, bastard wing {Jig. 52. v)

7. Ca6da, the tail
containing 2 pts,

h {

feathers.

1 TRectrices interm^diae, or 1 ^.i^. rniHfii<» tan
1- ix^ctrices caud« interJnedi*, j the middle tail

J the side tail feathers.

R(5ctrices laterkles, or
Tectrices ca6dae laterkles,'

. Cr6s, the leg,
which is divided
in 3 parts.

1. Femora, the thighs (^^. 52. .r.) ■ •■ '"

^' tSlTto^hrfootTwch?^- AcrostArsium, the front of the leg

coJftaiisiparS. ' i^- Calckria. the spurs (Vol. I. p.l24.

rPds, 7fi,„ft,„f „„„ Cl- T^igitif the toes {fig. 51. b)

3. -^ P14nta, or ^^'^P^°9^'^°^-J9 VfttU,^ th^ ar^^t tn,^ (rS

C Tarsus.

"tains 3 parts,

rl. U

'-?2. H
■C3. U

Hallux, the great toe (c)

ngues, claws (Vol. I. p. 124. fig. 56./)

A Cloud of Witnessesin favour of the Motion of Ultimate Molecules (p.46.).
— Erasmus mentions,! think in his " Spectrum," that a man stood m the
streets of London, looking at the clear sky with astonishment," and utter-
ing fearful exclamations. The passengers paused to enquire the cause :
" Do you see that monstrous dragon ? " At first, they were incapable to
discover any thing, but, after intense gazing, one saw the tail move, ano-
ther then saw the head, a third described its colour, and so on, till, by the
force of sympathy, the whole crowd saw the dragon very plainly. Your
reviewer's " cloud of witnesses " proves that the present people of London
can see as strange things, as those who lived in the days when it was visited
by Erasmus. — Y. T. H. March 2.

216 Retrospective Criticism,

Gray^s Natural Arrangement of British Plants. — You have not inserted
the query I sent you on this book. [We sent it to an eminent botanist,
whose answer we did not think it advisable to insert ; but we now regret
not having done so.] The expression in SmitWs Flora is, " I have also, for
the first time in a general British Flora, introduced the natural orders of
our plants ;" which is, supposing he knew of Gray's work, a palpable
falsehood. I have heard the increased number of terms, and the multipli-
cation of genera, in Gray, objected to ; but is not this the consequence of
the progress of science towards perfection ? If organs are really different
in form, although intended for similar purposes, such as seed-vessels, surely
it is better to designate such organs by a particular term, which at once
conveys to the student the idea of the form and construction of the part
in question. But some of your readers will favour me with an opinion
on the subject ; because the work, if it has any merit, ought not to be cast
into oblivion, merely because this or that author, however high he may
stand, chooses to pass it over in silence. It has one advantage over all
other works of the kind, in the English names being generally a transla-
tion of the Latin names ; and if the derivations of the generic names
had been given, it would have been, in this respect, complete. — 1). S.
July 28. 1828.

Geological Arrangement of British Fossil Shells. — Sir, In the Table of
the Geological Arrangement of British Fossil Shells, which you did me the
favour to insert (p. 26.), an accidental transposition of a line, in the press,
has occasioned an error it may be useful to correct. At p. 34., the genus
Solen should commence with the upper green sand, which formation, by the
inadvertent transposition alluded to, is placed two lines above, under the
genus Saxicava. It becomes the more desirable to point out this circum-
stance, because it is the first time, I believe, that the occurrence of Solen
in any but the tertiary beds has been noticed.

At present only one species of Solen, S. afFinis of the London clay, seems
to have been noticed in our treatises on mineral conchology. It is probable
that there are several other species, and I believe I am correct in mention-
ing their occurrence in the following beds : —

In the Green sand below the chalk 1 species.
London Clay - - 2

Crag - - 3

Whether there be a repetition of species in any of these formations is un-
determined.

It need scarcely be remarked here, that the Table of Shells is susceptible
of considerable extension, as almost every collector possesses a few unde-
scribed specimens. It is sufficient, for the present, that a// the character-
istic fossils are included therein ; and, however extensive the subsequent
additions, it is not very probable that the relative proportions of their num-
bers, in the different geological eras, will eventually be found to vary much
from the estimates which the present state of science enables us to form.
At some future period, perhaps, I may trouble you with an amended Table ;
.and I mention this with the hope that the pages of your Magazine may be
;One medium of adding to our knowledge of these interesting remains of a
.former world. I shall consider myself honoured by the notice, either by
this means, or privately, of any authentic species and localities of unde-
- scribed fossil Testacea. — B. C. Taylor. 7. Wilmington Square, London,
Aprils, 1829.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

NATURAL HISTORY.

JULY, 1829.

Art. L Farther Observations on the Influence of Fresh Water on
Marine Animals. By Lieutenant J. H. Da vies, R. M. Com-
municated by James L. Drummond, M.D., President of the
Belfast Natural History Society.

Sir,
The following statement, which I have received through
the kindness of your able correspondent, Lieut. J. H. Davies,
R. M., being very illustrative of the fatal power often exerted
by fresh water on animal life, and of the observations in my
communication on that subject in your last Number, and being
also highly curious in itself^ I request, with Lieutenant Davies*s
permission, that you will give it a place in your next.
I am, Sir, yours, &c.

Jas. L. Drummond.
Belfast, May 9. 1829.

In the summer of 1817, being at that time a resident in St.
John's, the capital of Newfoundland, I frequently amused my-
self, in company with my brother-in-law, the comptroller of
the customs, in hauling a small seine in that harbour. We
were accustomed to shoot the net across where the water was
perfectly salt, and drawing it up the harbour, haul it on shore
at the upper end, where a small river discharges itself, so that
the fish were drawn out of the salt water into the fresh. The
species included were, eels, flat fish, codling, and a common fish,
known as the sculpen, bull-head, &c. (Cottus ^Scorpio?), which
in Newfoundland grows to a considerable size, and is finely
marked with blotches of brown, red, and white. On those
occasions all the other species of fish were lively, but the
whole of these were dead and stiff. My attention was, of
course, attracted by this singular circumstance, which was at-
tributed to their being drawn into the fresh water. I witnessed

Vol. II. — No. 8. g

218 Imposture entitled a Pygmy Bison.

the same effect being produced several times at the same place ;
and that this particular species is always killed by being sud-
denly brought in contact with fresh water, is corroborated by
my having seen the same effect produced in another place. In
the upper part of the harbour of Portsmouth, Hants, at a
place called Fleethouse, is a fine spring of pure water, situated
below the high-water mark ; it is consequently covered by the
sea every tide, at the receding of which, as the spring discharges
copiously it is speedily fit for use, and is resorted to by all the
neighbourhood. I have frequently seen this species of Cottus
lying dead in numbers round the spring ; they had evidently
advanced with the tide, and been killed by coming in contact
with the fresh water flowing from the spring, the falling of the
tide leaving them beside it.

John Henry Davies.
PortsmbutJi^ May, 1829.

Art. II. Notice of an Imposture entitled a Pygmy Bison^ or
American Ox. By V.

Sir,
As it is the duty of every naturalist to guard the public
against impositions such as those exposed in your Magazine
under the heads Mermaid (Vol. I. p. 106.), and Zoological
Imposture (Vol. I. p. 189.), I have to bring under your no-
tice another of a somewhat different description, which, from
the uncommon ingenuity with which it is made up, is well
calculated to deceive those little conversant with Nature. I
allude to the specimen of a Pygmy Bison (Jig, 53. a), said to
have belonged to Count Bournon, and at the time I saw it
in possession of a Mr. Murray, a dealer in curiosities, &c., from
Hastings, who valued it at forty guineas, as it was supposed
to be unique of its kind, being but about 7 or 8 in. high, and
every way proportionate and symmetrical, and at the same
time quite perfect in horns, coat, and every other part which
distinguishes the fully developed male Bison. Now, as the ani-
mal of which it is the representative is, when full grown and
equally perfect, of the stature of an ox, and even acquires such
a size as to weigh from 1600 to 2900 lbs. ; and, as it may be
presumed from analogy that the calf, or embryo, of the bison
has not any horns, mane, &c., there can be no doubt of the
imposture, which may, nevertheless, be fully worth the sum
demanded for it, as a most perfect model of the bison, and as
the summit of the art of deception. As I took some pains to

I

Some Account of the Water-Shrew.

^19

examine this curiosity, and to consider how so difficult a task
had been accomplished, it appeared to me to have been
grounded on a well-formed model of wood, very tightly covered,
in the first instance, by the skin of a pug-dog of corresponding

53

size, the long hair about the head, hunch, and belly being
added with consummate skill from the skin of a young bear,
while the horns and hoofs were formed out of the black horn
of the buffalo, all, however, so admirably put together, and
the tout ensemble so elegant, as to stamp the artist as the first
of his calling.

I am Sir, &c.
August, 1828. V,

Art. III. Some Account of the Water- Shrevo : a Mouse supposed
to have been lost for about a Century. By John F. M. Dovaston,
Esq. A.M. Oxon., of West-Felton, near Shrewsbury.

" Thou need'st na startle
At me, thy poor earth-born companion.
And fellow-mortal."

Burns.

Sir,

On a delicious evening, far in April, 1825, a little before
sunset, strolling in my orchard, beside a pool, and looking into
the clear water for insects I expected about that time to come
out, I was surprised by seeing what I momentarily imagined to

S 2

220 Some Account of the Water-Shrew,

be a Dyticus marginalis, or some very large beetle, dart with
rapid motion, and suddenly disappear. Laying myself down
cautiously and motionless on the grass, I soon, to my delight and
wonder, observed it was a mouse. I repeatedly marked it glide
from the bank, under water, and bury itself in the mass of
leaves at the bottom : I mean the leaves that had fallen off the
trees in autumn, and which lay very thick over the mud. It
very shortly returned, and entered the bank, occasionally put-
ting its long sharp nose out of the water, and paddling close
to the edge. This it repeated at very frequent intervals, from
place to place, seldom going more than two yards from the side,
and always returning in about half a minute. I presume it sought
and obtained some insect or food among the rubbish and leaves,
and retired to consume it. Sometimes it would run a little on
the surface, and sometimes timidly and hastily come ashore,
but with the greatest caution, and instantly plunge in again.
During the whole sweet spring of that fine year, I constantly
visited my new acquaintance. When under water he looks
grey, on account of the pearly cluster of minute air-bubbles
that adhere to his fur, and bespangle him all over. His colour,
however, is very dark brown, not quite so black as that of the
mole, over the head and upper part of the body : the belly
and throat are of the purest silvery white, with a dark spot
under the tail : the ears are white at the edges, and very
conspicuous ; not from their prominence, being almost buried
in the fur, but from contrast of colour. The nose is long and
sharp, but broader at the end than that of the land-shrew
{Shrex «raneus) ; and the pretty little creature is broader and
longer, of the utmost cleanliness and beauty, when afloat ap-
pearing almost flat. Length about 3 in. ; tail not quite 2 in. ;
eyes very small ; the claws fringed with very fine bristles. This
minute description I am enabled to give, having, at the sug-
gestion of my friend, John Clavering Wood, Esq., a most able
and ardent naturalist, caught it in an angler's landing-net, and
carefully inspected it in a white chamber-basin of water. The
poor creature was extremely uneasy under inspection ; and we
soon, with great pleasure, restored it to liberty and love : for
he had a companion, whom, from her paler colour and more
slender form, we doubted not was his mate ; and were fearful,
by our intrusion, of giving offence to either.

He swims very rapidly ; and, though he appears to dart, his
very nimble wriggle is clearly discernible. He is never seen
till near sunset, but I saw him, every evening I watched, with
the most perfect facility. They are easily discovered about
the going down of the sun, on still evenings, by the undulating
semicircles quickly receding from the bank of the pool, when

Some Account of the Water-Shre'-dc, 221

they are dabbling at the side, and readily distinguishable from
those of the Gyrinus natator. I believe this to be the animal
said to be so long lost in England, the water-shrew, *S6rex;
fodiens of Pennant, and the *S5rex bicolor of Turton's English
Linnceus; for my Latin edition (Holmiae, 1766) has him not
at all. Gm. Lin. 113., describes him, "cauda mediocri sub-
nuda, corpore nigricante subtus cinereo, digitis ciliatis ; " *
though, to me, the under parts seemed purely white. By refer-
ence to various books, I find the female has ten teats, and brings
forth nine young ; fore-teeth, lower two ; tusks, upper three,
under two ; grinders, upper four, under three. I have said he
only appears at evening, and such are his general habits. Once,
however, at broad and bright noon, while leaning on a tree,
gazing on the sun-sparkles passing (like fairy lights) in number-
less and eternal succession under the gentlest breath of air, I
was aware of my little friend running nimbly on the surface
among them. My rapture caused me to start with delight, on
which he vanished to security within his rush-fringed bank ;
while I, reasoning at every step, exclaimed with good old
Belarius,

** To apprehend thus,

Draws us a profit from all things we see;

And often, to our comfort, shall we find

The sharded beetle in a safer hold

Than is the fulUwing'd eagle." Cymbeline.

I should have mentioned that, on very still evenings, when
my ear was close to the ground, I fancied I heard him utter a
very short, shrill, feeble sibilation, not unlike that of the
grasshopper-lark, in mild light summer nights, but nothing
near so loud or long-conthmed. Though I have watched for
him warily in that and other places, after having, to the end
of May, contributed to the myriads of my amusements, I never
saw him more.

I have written this account, Sir, principally to gratify the
urgent entreaties of some students of nature in these parts ;
particularly those of my amiable friend Mr. Richard Tudor,
surgeon, who, I may almost say, can neither eat, drink, nor
even sleep without your Magazine ; and in whose ardent mind
every, the minutest, gem of nature stirs some kindred germ :
also those of my able, indefatigable, and scientific friend John E.
Bowman, Esq., already a contributor, and likely to be a strong
future support, to your pages. Should you sanction this with
your imprimatur, I may, with such stimulants as the conversa-

* « Tail, middle-sized, nakedish ; body, blackish, cinereous beneath ;
toes, ciliated."

9 3

222 Nature and Habits of the Bearded Titmouse,

tion of these gentlemen, make some head against my habitual
indolence, rummage my notes, and brush up my brains, being
most cordially a well-wisher to the cause.
Yours, &c.

John F. M. Dovaston.
Westfelton, near Skrewsbmy, May 6.

Art. IV. Remarks on the Nature and Habits of the Bearded
Titmouse (Parus biarmicus.) By a Lover of Nature.

Sir,
In the Introduction to your valuable Magazine of Natural
History, you invite your readers " to communicate every cir-
cumstance, even the most trivial, respecting the nature, habits,
and economy of animals ;" and thus encouraged, I am induced
to offer a few remarks, drawn from my own observation, on
the nature and habits of
the Bearded Titmouse
(Parus bidrmicus) {Jig,
54.), which, as I have
not found mentioned in
any work on ornithology,
may, perhaps, be accept-
able, and be considered
to throw some light on
the history of a bird so
very little known.

Bearded Titmice inhabit
the marshes bordering on
the Thames, both in Kent
and Essex. I was told,
in December last, that
some had been lately seen
in a large piece of reeds
below Barking Creek ;
and being desirous and
determined, if possible, to
see and observe them in
their haunts, I went, ac-
companied by one per-
son and a dog, to the
above-named place on a
cold windy dull morning, weather by no means favour-
able for my purpose ; but the reed-cutters having even
then commenced their operations, I was fearful of deferring

Nature and Habits of the Bearded Titmouse. 22.3

it, lest my game should be driven away. * Arrived on our
ground, we traversed it for some time without success; and
were about to leave it, when our attention was roused by the
alarm cry of this species, and looking up, we saw eight or ten
of these beautiful little creatures on the wing, just topping the
reeds over our heads, uttering in full chorus their sweetly
musical note, which resembles (if it may be likened to a word)
the monosyllable ping, ping; pronounced at first slow and
single, then two or three times in a more hurried manner : it
may be compared to the music of very small cymbals ; is clear
and ringing, though soft, and corresponds well with the de-
licacy and beauty of the form and colour of the bird. We
saw several flocks during the morning, or, what is more pro-
bable, the same flock several times. Their flights are short
and low, only sufficient to clear the reeds ; on the seedy tops
of which they alight to feed, hanging, like most of their
tribe, with the head or back downwards. If disturbed, they
immediately descend by running, or rather by dropping. The
movement is rapid along the stalk to the bottom, where they
creep and flit, perfectly concealed from view by the closeness
of the covert and the resembling tints of their plumage.

We could hear, but not see, our dog hunting; and we
thought he was of service in pointing out to us whereabouts
the birds were. His being near them, however, did not make
them easily take wing; they seemed to follow him, hovering
and crying about him. I question if we should have seen, or
even heard, a single bird without his assistance. We were
fortunate enough to shoot one (a male) in fine plumage. I
held it in my hand when scarcely dead. Nothing could exceed*
the beauty of the eye ; the bright orange of the iris, nearly
surrounded as it is by the deep glossy black of the mustachios
and streak above, receives additional brilliancy from the con-
trast, and struck me as a masterpiece of arrangement in colour
and neatness. The bill also was of a fine clear delicate orange ;
but this, too, soon became dull and opaque. I would here
ask if you. Sir, or any of your correspondents can guess of
what use the long feathers, called the mustachios of this bird,
are. We may fairly suppose that Nature does not give her
creatures useless appendages, for mere ornament; but I own
I am at a loss to imagine their purpose, unless it be to aid
the wearer in its passage through so thick a covert.

* The Bearded Titmouse is known in these parts by the name of the
Reed Pheasant; and is not unaptly called so. Their relative length of
tail is not very unequal ; and when placed in certain lights, the tints of the
tail feathers are by no means dissimilar. The accompanying sketch [from^
which ^g. 54. is an engraving] represents the bird as 1 saw it.

g 4

224- White ButterJUes of Britain.

I am told that the males and females keep distinct during
the winter. This is not improbable; Mr. White says the
same of the chaffinches, in his Natural History of Selboriie. I
had no opportunity of deciding on the day in question. I have
lieard also that the families of old and young birds are some-
times seen together in the months of August and September.
This I hope to witness ; at present I am rather sceptical.

As my name would give no weight to these remarks, I
withhold it ; but should they be thought worthy of a place in
any of your forthcoming Numbers, I may at some future time
trouble you under my own signature. At present I subscribe
myself, A Lover of Nature.

Woolwich, March 20. 1829.

Art. V. On the White Butterfiies of Britain, By J. Rennie,
Esq. A.M. A.L.S.

The power of discriminating among things which differ in
many minute points, but whose general similarity of appear-
ance usually deceives the common observer into a belief of
their identity, is one of the most necessary qualifications of a
naturalist. This power, indeed, constitutes almost the whole
difference between the accurate naturalist and those persons
who look on the wonders of creation with careless indifference,
who call every wild flower a weed, and every insect a fly or a
beetle. According to my experience, it is exceedingly diffi-
cult for persons arrived at m.anhood to acquire this power of
discrimination; but in early life, a little care on the part of a
parent or a teacher will render it comparatively easy. The
training up young people to this mode of observation is of in-
finitely more importance to them than exercising their memory
exclusively upon books ; which is the usual routine of proce-
dure at schools. By the latter method, the memory may, no
doubt, be highly improved ; but it is, almost without exception,
at the expense of the judgm.ent, which, by the former method,
is the chief faculty exercised. It would not, indeed, be a very
liard matter to demonstrate that the practice of distinguishing
among the genera, species, and varieties in natural history is
a more efficient exercise of judgment than even mathematics,
though I cannot at present spare time for this. It will answer
my purpose better to illustrate the principles of discrimination
which I have advocated, by some of the most conspicuous of
our native insects.

The most common British butterflies must have been re-

White Butterjiies of Britain. 225

marked by most persons to be those which are white; and
all these, it may be inferred, are usually looked upon as of the
same species, differing in nothing, except perhaps in the size;
the latter being erroneously ascribed to difference of age, ac-
cording to the analogy of birds, quadrupeds, and fishes. But
the fact is, that there are a considerable number of species of
our white butterflies, as well as several genera ; and probably
more varieties even of these than have yet been ascertained or
described. To these I shall now endeavour to direct the
reader's attention. It may be of use, however to make the
previous remark, that butterflies do not, like the larger ani-
mals, increase in size as they grow older: for every in-
dividual, from the moment it becomes a butterfly, continues
invariably of the same size from its birth till its death. But-
terflies, indeed, seldom live longer than a few days, or, at
most, a few weeks, and during this time they eat little except
a sip of honey : and since this is so, it would be absurd to
expect that they could increase in size. It must not, however,
be understood from this that the same species will always
measure or weigh precisely the same ; for, though this will
hold as a general rule, there are many exceptions, arising
from the accidents the caterpillar may have suffered from
which an individual butterfly originated. It is only during
the caterpillar state that the insect eats voraciously and grows
in proportion ; and if it is, during this stage of its existence,
, thrown upon short allowance, it cannot acquire the standard
magnitude, and the butterfly will be dwarfed from the first,
and may even be sometimes deficient in one or more of its
wings; a circumstance which I have witnessed more than
once in butterflies reared by entomologists, who sometimes
forget to furnish their caterpillars with food. The same re-
marks with respect to growth apply to insects of every kind ;
and the fact cannot be better exemplified than in the uni-
formity of size in the house-fly (Musca domestica), among
which scarcely one individual in a thousand will be found to
differ a hair's breadth in dimensions from its fellows.

It is not, however, by size only that our British white but-
terflies may be distinguished ; for they differ very considerably
both in the shape of their wings and the markings with which
they are embellished. The ground-colour, indeed, is white,
but this is, in many instances, dotted, clouded, or shaded with
black, and sometimes with other colours, which furnish good
characteristic distinctions. I shall now give a short outline
of these distinctions, such as may enable young entomologists
to determine the species of those which fall in their way in their
summer rambles.

I

226

Wiite Butterflies of Britain,

The most common and conspicuous of our white butterflies
belong to the genus P6nti«, with which I shall begin. Mr.
Stephens forms two divisions of it ; the first having an obtuse
angle at the tip of the fore wings, while the hinder wings are
uniform in colour or not variegated on their under surface ;
the second having the tip of the fore wings rounded, and the
hinder wings variegated beneath.

I. — Fore wings mth an obtuse angle at the tip ; hinder wings
of one colour on the under surface.

1. The common large cabbage butterfly (Pontia ^rassicae)

(Jig, 55,) measures

2^ in. , across the

wings, whose upper

surface is milk-white;

the tips marked with

a black band, irre-
gularly jagged on the

inner edge (a a), and

having a black spot

{bb) on the upper

edge of the hinder

wings. The under

surface of the fore

wings is white, with a yellow band at 'the^tips, and two black

spots on the disc of each ; the [upper surface in the male

having two corresponding spots which are wanting in the

female. The under surface of the hinder wings is yellow,

thickly studded with minute black points.

2. The early cab-
bage butterfly ( Pontia
Charicle« Steph.) {fig.
56.)isexceedinglylike
the preceding, though
there are a few points
of distinction. It
usually appears much
earlier than P. ^ras-
sicae, and is consider-
ably less in size ; the
wings expanding only
2^ in., while the black
band at the tip of the

wings is paler, and not jagged on the inner margin [a a),

and the outer margin is fringed with yellowish white. In the

fVhite Butterflies of Britain.

227

female, the inner margin of this band is deeply shaded with
black. The inferior size alone appears to be sufficient to
distinguish this insect as a peculiar species.

3. The small cabbage but-
terfly (P6nti« rapae) {J%-. 57.)
is very similar to the preced
ing, but much smaller, the
wings only expanding about
2 in. or less ; sometimes there
is one, sometimes two, black
spots on the upper disk of
each fore wing; and in some
varieties the spot is nearly
wanting. There are always,
however, two black spots on the under surface of each fore-
wing, as in P. ^rassicae and P. Chariclea.

58 %^ ^ 4^ The spotless small cab-

bage butterfly (Pontia metra
Steph.) {Jig. 58.) is very like
that variety of the preceding
in which the wing spots are
nearly wanting. It is of the
same size as the preceding,
but appears earlier. The tip
of the wings is acutely angled, where there is a slightly shaded
dusky band. The base of the wings is deep black; and the
black spots on the disk, which characterise the three preced-
ing species, are on this very faint, if not altogether wanting

5. The green-veined white butterfly
(Pontic wapi) {fg. 59.) is somewhat
less than the two preceding species,
but is easily distinguished from them
by dilated greenish veins branching
over the under disk of the wings ; as
may be seen in the figure. The upper
surface of the tips of the fore wings
is shaded with black, and the disk, in
the female, marked with two large

black spots placed transversely. Considerable variety occurs
in the markings.

6. The larger green- veined white butterfly (Pontiflt Napae^se
Esper.) is considerably broader in the expansion of the wings
than the preceding. The ground colour is milk-white, with
the upper tips of the fore wings black, and also a black spot on
their disk, with two or three triangular dashes on their hinder
margin ; the veins below are dilated and greenish.

228

While Biitierjiies of Britain,

7. The middle green-
veined white butterfly
(Pontiff sabellicae Peti-
mr) {Jig, 60.) is larger
than P. ;2api, but smaller
than the preceding. The
wings also are shorter
and more rounded than
in P. wapi, and the veins
are dark above, and un-
derneath are not green-
ish, but dusky and very
broad. This insect agrees,
according to Mr. Stephens, with P. iryonias of Wallner. It is
not easy to distinguish it from the preceding.

II. — Fore wings with the tip rounded; under wings variegated

beneath.

8. The Bath white butterfly
(Pontiff daplidice) {fig,Ql,) is
one of our rarest British in-
sects; not above five or six
having been hitherto caught in
ithis country. It is about the
^^C^Qsize of P. Napae^as ; the ground
colour of the wings white, with
the tips of the fore wings black
spotted with white, and the
under surface of the hinder
wings yellowish green, with

white spots and an angular transverse line.
9. The orange-tip

butterfly (Pontiff carda-

mines) ( fig, 62.), or

Wood-lady of the Lon-
don fly-fanciers, is one

of our prettiest British

insects, and is common

all over the country.

The beautiful shade of

orange on the angle of

the fore wing [a a a a)

will readily distinguish

the male from every

other butterfly ; but as the female has no orange mark, it may

be necessary to look at the under side of the hinder wings,

the fine marbling of which cannot be mistaken.

White Butterflies of Britain,

229

10. The wood white butterfly (Leucophasia sinapis Steph
{fig, Q^.) measures 1^ in. in the
expansion of the wings, which are
milk-white, with the tip of the
fore wings rounded and dusky.
In the female the wings are more
rounded. It is by no means
so common as those which fre-
quent the cruciform plants; its caterpillar feeding, not on
Sinapis, but on the bird's-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), and
pea everlasting (Zathyrus pratensis).

'^ "^ ^ 11. The black-

veined white but-
terfly (Pieris era-
tag gi) Ifig, 64.) is
a beautiful indige-
nous insect, which
seems to have dis-
appeared from the
vicinity of London
for several years.
The expanded wings measure 2^ in., being consequently about
the same size as the P. Chariclea. The wings are of a uniform
white colour, distinctly veined with black. It frequents woods
and hedges; the caterpillars, which are black with yellow and
white hairs, feeding in society beneath a silken web, on the
hawthorn.

1 2. The brimstone
butterfly (Gonepte-
ryx rhamni) {Jig^^S,]
cannot properly be
ranked amongst our
white butterflies,
since the ground co-
lour is bright prim-
rose yellow ; but this
applies only to the
male: the female is greenish white, with a dusky spot at the
base of the wings, and an orange spot in the centre. The
angular shape of the wings, however, will at once distinguish
it beyond all mistake.

From these brief sketches, aided by the figures, which are
given from the accurate pencil of Sowerby, I think it will be in
the power of the youngest and least experienced collectors to
distinguish and name any of the white butterflies which they
may chance to capture.
Lee^ Kait^ June 25. 1829.

230

Oak Tree struck by Lightning,

Art. VI. Notice respecting an Oak Tree struck by Lightning.
By the Rev. T. W. S.
Sir,
I HAVE sent you a drawing {Jig» 66.) of an oak growing in
the parish of Weston, in Norfolk, which was struck by light-

ning on the 26th of last September. The drawing was taken
immediately after, and represents the damage sustained at the

Notice of Orthoceras anfiuldris and striata* 2SI

time correctly ; but, since that, the standing bough has fallen,
and the tree is otherwise fast going to decay. Not the slightest
portion of bark was left upon the trunk, although not a bough
was affected in that way, nor the leaves thrown off. The fis-
sures reached from the top to the ground, but not in connec-
tion ; gradually decreasing downwards, except the lowest,
which decreased upwards. Pieces of bark were thrown the
distance of ninety yards. This was one of six trees standing
in a line, and not the tallest. In the summer of 1822, a fine
oak was struck by lightning, which was growing on Scottow
Common, in the same county ; but which, so far from being
killed, had continued to grow and flourish till 1828, when it
was felled, and proved to be a sound and good tree in most
parts. The tree was large and wide-spreading, affording
shade in the summer, and shelter in the winter, to the stock
turned out to pasture ; and, at times, attracted attention from
the number which it could cover. From the time of its being
struck, not a head of cattle has been near it, not only not
seeking its shade, but obviously avoiding the tree as being
disagreeable. This (to me curious) fact is attested by many
witnesses of the highest respectability; and, if any of your
correspondents will favour you, and you the public, with the
reason for the aversion which the cattle have from this tree, they
will much oblige many, and

Yours, &c.
Weston Rectory^ Nov. 28. 1828. T. W. S.

Art. VII. Notice of some Fragments of OrthSceras annularis
and striata^ found in the Barr Limestone in Warwickshire. By
Frederick Jukes, Esq. ; with a Note by J. D. C. Sowerby, Esq.
F.L.S.

Sir,
The discovery of the Barr Trilobite, which you did me the
favour to insert in a former Number of your Magazine (p. 41.),
being new to the English lime formations, I am induced to offer
to your notice some fragments of Orthoceratites from the same
stratum referred to in my former paper, in the hopes that they
may also present some variety in fossils of that nature not
already discovered. The enclosed drawing (/^. 67.) may,
probably, be worthy of insertion, as it yet bears the marks of
a very beautiful external configuration; the section exhibits

232 Notice of Orthoceras anmddris and striata.

its chambers and
siphunculus nearly
perfect.

Its general ap-
pearance somewhat
resembles a trans-
versely fluted co-
lumn, with an ele-
vated ring corre-
sponding to each septum. It is surrounded, also, by a number
of beautifully waved lines, which, on the rings, form angular
projections. The specimens I have yet seen, from this place,
are quite straight, and present, perhaps, three or four varieties.

Some specimens {Jig, 67.) have elevated rings, with waved
lines around them; others (/^. 68.) have slight depressions
with longitudinal straight lines. The larger kind are fre-
quently from 2 in. to 3 in. in diameter, and upwards of 1 ft.
in length ; but the smaller specimens are generally most perfect
and beautiful.

The shaft from which the new trilobite was obtained, and
from which the most perfect orthoceratites may also be pro-
cured, is at this time filled with water ; and the open-work or
out-crop of this stratum being subject to decomposition, from
atmospheric influence, very few specimens of value can at this
time be obtained.

The upper, or Dudley, stratum, which also extends superfi-
cially to this place, carries with it all the train of fossils which
are found at Dudley and Walsall ; but, in the lower stratum,
I have not yet heard of any others than the large trilobite and
orthoceratites having been found.

Since I wrote the above, I have been informed, by Mr.
Miller of Bristol, that he has in his possession two specimens
of trilobites, discovered in the transition limestone at Ledbury,

Notice of Orthoceras anmddris afid striata, 233

corresponding precisely, in size and outline, to the large spe-
cies found in this neighbourhood.

Mr. Miller also states, that, at Ledbury, the upper and
lower portions of the A'saphus caudatus are abundant, though
seldom in a perfect state. The Calymene Tristan? is occa-
sionally found there ; but the Calymene Blumenbach//, so
plentiful at Dudley, has not yet been discovered.

The Orthoceras also occurs there, though not sufficiently
perfect to exhibit the external shell. It would be a satisfac-
tory circumstance to persons interested in geology, to know if
the orthoceratites, and large trilobite discovered at Ledbury,
are found in lower beds to those which contain fossils of the
Dudley character.

I remain. Sir, &c.
General Hospital, Birmingham, Frederick Jukes.

March 3, 1829,

The specimens with elevated rings {Jg. 67.) are of one spe-
cies, Orthoceras annularis ikf/w. Con.t. 133.; the others (Jig. 68.),
found in Colebrook Dale also, are the Orthoceras striata o^ Mi-
neral Conchologi/, tab. 58., a species that is found in the Black
Rock near Cork, and in the low beds of limestone near Pres-
ton, Kendal, and other parts of the transition series ; in none
of which, however, as far as I know, has the Barr trilobite
been discovered. Many fossil shells are found with it in all
these places, but, according to Mr. Jukes, not at Barr ; a
distinction which appears extraordinary, and requires to be
verified by a diligent search.

The figure in Min. Conch, of O. annularis is taken from a
specimen by no means so strongly marked as one sent by Mr.
Jukes ; but another approaches very near to it, and proves
them to be only varieties.

March 10. 1829. J. D. C. S.

Vol. n. — No. S.

234.

PART II.

REVIEWS.

Art. I. A Flora of Bewoick upon Tweed. By George John-
ston, M.D. &c. Vol. I. — Phsenogamous Plants. Berwick.
8vo. 1829.

In the course of time many wise saws have been held cur-
rent in physic, and many vain promises made by the empi-
rical, yet we are acquainted with no apothegm half so wise
as that which is condensed by Dr. Cullen, into two lines of
small pica, and read as follows : " I have cured weak stomachs
by engaging the persons in the study of botany, and particu-
larly in the investigation of native plants." This being our
sovereign panacea for the cure of the ills which flesh is heir
lo in this great city, we shall be excused for calling our readers'
attention, more at large than usual, to one of the best local
Floras that has passed through our hands.

The northern counties have been more than ordinarily for-
tunate in the number of active botanists who have resided
within their borders. Mr. Winch of Newcastle, so well
known among naturalists for his skill and accuracy, has pub-
lished various works as Guides to the Botanists through this
interesting corner of the island. Then, Mr. Thompson, a
surgeon in the army, set an excellent example to his migratory
brethren, and showed them how they might reap laurels in
other fields than those of death, and published " A Catalogue
of Plants growing in the vicinity of Bernsoich^^ adding thereto
many which had not been observed before.

The author of the present work, not content with descri-
bing species for the hundredth time, and giving a mere cata-
logue within a limited district, has thrown in many pertinent
remarks respecting their geological distribution, their uses in
the arts, their physiological phenomena ; and in the Flora of
a river so celebrated in pastoral as the Tweed, " where flowers
of fairy blow," he has noticed the superstitions connected with
them in former times, and the illustrations they have fur-
nished to the poet. Not a field nor a flower but suggests to
our author some beauty which is veiled from the ordinary
passenger. The pleasures of science are thus greatly en-
hanced, and a higher relish given to the pursuits of life.

I

Johnston^ s Flora of Bei^nsoick upon Tweed, 235

The district, whose vegetable productions he professes to
examine, contains every variety of soil, whether inland or on
the sea shore; and is remarkably distinguished also for the
variety of its stratification. The catalogue is very properly
prefaced with an account of the geology of the neighbour-
hood, drawn up by a friend of the author, who has justly
impressed upon his readers, both by precept and example,
the importance of remarking the geological relations of plants.
Up to a late period, the compilers of Floras have thought
it of more consequence to add a species, than to ascertain
its relation to the locality in which it was found ; yet every
addition to the Flora of a country throws some light on the
laws of vegetable distribution. It suggests the questions
whether it be indigenous and coeval with the soil; or if
introduced, by what means that has been effected. Whether
arts or commerce, agriculture or manufactures, superstition
or medicine, has brought it; or, which is frequently the case,
whether the altered state of the earth's surface has not af-
forded to Nature, by her ordinary laws, increased means of
diffusion. In the days of Gesner, jPumaria ofiicinahs was a
very rare plant in the fields of southern Europe, and sup-
posed to have come from the East ; now it is the commonest
weed in corn fields and gardens, from Greece to Lapland.
Again, as plants approach the limits of their range, it is often
curious to enquire what soils or rocks they prefer. Many
south country species, without showing any particular attach-
ment in places where they abound, become choice as they
approach their northern boundary. Some terminate their
range on chalk ; others on mountain limestone, or red sand-
stone, or the sea shore. Some, which with us affect the
driest soil, occur, in southern latitudes, in moist ones, as iinum
catharticum. On the contrary, plants coming to us (so to
speak) from the north, what strata and soils do they prefer
or reject? how are the moisture, the temperature, the
isothermal range, compensated for, when plants reach more
southern parallels ? Z)aphne ilfezereum may safely be pro-
nounced not to' be indigenous ; because its head quarters being
in the subalpine regions of the north, and its locality in
England being in the chalk woods of Hampshire, according
to Miller, it is contrary to all our experience of compensation.
What is there, again, in the nature of some plants that should
dispose them to be vagabonds all over the earth, while others
are limited to a single spot ? It is very important, also, that
botanists should observe the negative list of particular places,
as well as the positive. For instance, it is remarkable that
^'nthemis Cotula (stinking May-weed) should not be found

R 2

236 tJohnston^s Flora of Bermck upofi Tweed,

within the district of this author, whereas it is a most abun-
dant weed in the south of England, and naturalises itself
easily in America. It is delightful to observe how the boun-
daries of knowledge enlarge as we make progress, and there
is nothing which marks poverty of intellect so much as that
conlplacency which supposes it has gathered in all that a sub-
ject will afford.

The Flora of Dr. Johnston comprehends a copious list of
species, which is not so remarkable for containing any that
are peculiar to the district (which is the case with the
eastern counties and Cornwall), as it is for the singular
stations where some of them are found. Thus to find Rhodiola
rosea, which is generally alpine, on the sea coast, is quite
unexpected ; as are ^^mpetrum nigrum and ,Scilla verna, on
sea banks. Eriophorum pubescens, which is of modern
creation, seems to be frequent, while the old E. polystachion
is not common. The difference of these species is not very
obvious ; and, like a thousand others of the present day, are
only known by the " ear mark." Dr. Johnston's keen eye
has rediscovered, in Ray's locality on Cheviot, the long lost
Cornus suecica.

Of the origin of the name "Forget me not" (TV/yosotis)
the author gives the following account, extracted from Mill's
History of Chivah-y, and communicated to that work by Dr.
A. T. Thomson : — " Two lovers were loitering on the margin
of a lake on a fine summer's evening, when the maiden espied
some of the flowers of ikfyos^tis growing on the water, close to
the bank of an island, at some distance from the shore. She
expressed a desire to possess them, when the knight, in the
true spirit of chivalry, plunged into the water, and swimming
to the spot, cropped the wished for plant, but his strength
was unable to fulfil the object of his achievement, and feeling
that he could not regain the shore, although very near it, he
threw the flowers upon the bank, and casting a last affection-
ate look upon his lady-love, he cried, ' Forget me not ! ' and
was buried in the waters." As the world insists upon a
reason, this story is as good as another; but the worthy
knight must have been sadly out of his element not to have
been able to return from a bank on which his mistress could
discern so minute a blossom, unless, indeed, we suppose him
to have been clad in armour, which was a habiliment ill
adapted for a lover by land or water.

Is the author correct in assigning the name of" Blue-bells"
to Campanula rotundifolia ? We had always imagined that
the " Blue-bells of Scotland" were the AScilla nutans, and
that the Campanula rotundifolia \vas the " Hare-bell," from

JohnstorCs Flora of Ber'isoick upon Tweed, 237

its slender and grassy appearance. Thus Walter Scott, in
describing the grace of the " Lady of the Lake," says,

" E'en the slight hare-bell raised its head.
Elastic, from her^airy tread.

When doubtful natives are found, it is extremely desirable
that authors should be particular in examining all the causes,
as far as they can, which may have brought them into their
situations. In a highly improved country like ours, there
are, no doubt, hundreds of species adopted as natives, which
art and cultivation have introduced, yillium Schcenoprasum,
for instance, which is found at " Fastcastle," can hardly be
established as wild. This, we know, was an oleraceous plant
used by our forefathers, perhaps before the " Onion " was
introduced. There are many plants peculiar to the neigh-
bourhood of castles, which probably were the products of the
gardens attached, and which have no claim to be regarded as
indigenous. ikZelampyrum montanum is a new species which
the author has attempted to establish, though not without
hesitation, since the differences, he remarks, may be attribut-
able to situation. Why not, then, have placed it as a variety,
or variation, under its nearest congener, until he had satis-
fied himself of its permanent character by cultivation ? This
hasty splitting of species is involving the science in inextri-
cable difficulty.

The author states Ficia /athyroides to belong to the Ber-
wick Flora ; but he assigns its station in so general a way as
to lead us to suspect some mistake. This species, as far as
we know, has hitherto been found only on the sands of the
eastern counties. Probably, Ficia angustifolia or some
variety of F, sativa has been taken for it. It appears that
-Arctium Bardana more frequently occurs in waste grounds
about Berwick than the A. Zappa. The author finds the
Veronica filiformis of Decandolle, of which a figure is added,
in cultivated grounds. Mr. Borrer had found it before in
Sussex.

Having now given our readers some slight taste of the
4;ontents of Dr. Johnston's work, we cannot dismiss it without
recommending it to their rumination. It is composed more in
the spirit of the Flora Lapponica, that model for all similar
undertakings, than any other which occurs to our recollec-
tion. Its technical dulness is relieved by litde excursions into
the by-paths of literature and the useful applications of sci-
ence. Instead of being as dry and uninteresting as a spell-
ing-book, it is as engaging as that entertaining book. Dr.
Johnson's folio dictionary. Without sacrificing good taste,

R 3

2S8 Butterjiy Collectwh Vade Mecum,

he touches upon familiar topics, or cites a poet ; yet maintains
the dignity of science, and manages to mingle instruction
with pleasure by means of the hitherto impracticable vehicle
of specific descriptions. * C^

Art. II. Catalogue of Works on Natural History, lately published^
with some Notice of those considered the most interesting to British
Naturalists,

Britain.

Anon. Attributed to Miss Laetitia Jermyn of Ipswich : The Butterfly Col-
lector's Vade Mecum ; with a Synoptical Table of British Butterflies,
Ipswich and London. 12mo, 5 plates. 7^. 6d.

This " Account of British Butterflies " is dedicated to the Rev. W.
Kirby (p. 20.), and stated there and in the advertisement to be " enriched
by his accurate and valuable remarks," which, to all who have perused
Kirby and Spence's Entomology, will be a sufficient guarantee and recom-
mendation of Miss Jermyn's work.

After stating the improvements which the edition of 1827 has received,
some of the attractions of this pleasing branch of natural history are no-
ticed. " Although the study of every class of animals is most indisputably
attended with peculiar advantages, yet it may safely be affirmed, that it is
from the knowledge of the characters, metamorphoses, and various modes^
of life which insects are destined to pursue, that a more intimate acquaint-
ance may be obtained with the laws of Nature, and veneration for the great
Creator of all, than can be derived from the contemplation of any other
class in the animated world. Whilst most animals retain, during life, the
form which they receive at their birth, insects are distinguished by the won-
derful changes they undergo. Their existence partakes of two, three, and
four distinct states, and, in each of these, differs most essentially in appear-
ance, organisation, and manner of living. It is in this class of animals, also^
above all others, that we are struck with what Cicero has called ' the insa-
tiable variety of nature.' " (p. 7.)

The whole of the preface is so much to our mind, that we cannot deny
ourselves the pleasure of extracting largely from it.

In answer to the charge of inhumanity sometimes brought against the
collectors of living animals, it is argued that the objection applies less in the
case of insects than in that of the higher classes; because "it is an admitted
hypothesis that, in proportion as we descend in the scale of being, the sen-
sibility of the objects that constitute it diminishes ; " and that the poet's
conclusion that a beetle, trod on, feels " a pang as great as when a giant
dies," is incorrect. Why, Ray asks, were insects arrayed in beauty, and
surrounded with wonders, but that we might be led to glorify the hand
that made them ? " If,* says Gedner, * we do not think it worth our
while, for any other reason, to turn our attention to the works of nature,
yet surely, for the glory of the great Creator, we ought to do it ; since, in
every insect, we may observe some singular artifice which is not to be found
in any other bodies, and which fully demonstrates the omniscience of the
Supreme Being who has created nothing but for a certain end, and for some
valuable purpose.' (p. 9.)

" Can it be necessary," asks Miss Jermyn, " to declaim on the superiority
of a people amongst whom intellectual pleasures are preferred to animal

Bidterjiy Collector's Vade Mecum. 239

gratification ? Is it to be regretted that many of the Spitalfields weavers
spend their Saint Monday holidays in search of some of the more splendid
Lepidoptera, instead of smoking in an alehouse ? or, is it not rather to be
wished that they should recreate their leisure-hours by breathing the pure
air, while in pursuit of this * untaxed and undisputed game? ' Insects (and
more particularly butterflies) appear to have been Nature's favourite pro-
ductions ; in which, to recompense them for their weakness, and to manifest
her power and skill, she has combined and concentrated almost all that is
either beautiful and graceful, interesting and alluring, or curious and sin-
gular in every other class and order of her children. To these her valued
miniatures she has given the most delicate 'touch, and highest finish of her
pencil, (p. 10.)

" The splendid appearance of the plumage of tropical birds is not supe-
rior to what the curious observer may discover in a variety of Lepidoptera ;
and those many-coloured eyes, which deck so gorgeously the peacock's tail,
are imitated with success in Vanessa Po, one of our most common butter-
flies. * See,' exclaims the illustrious Linnaeus, * the large, elegant, painted
wings of the butterfly, four in number, covered with small imbricated scales ;
with these it sustains itself in the air the whole day, rivalling the flight of
birds, and the brilliancy of the peacock. Consider this insect through the
wonderful progress of its life, how different is the first period of its being
from the second, and both from the parent insect. Its changes are an in-
explicable enigma to us : we see a green caterpillar, furnished with sixteen
feet, creeping, hairy, and feeding upon the leaves of a plant ; this is changed
into a chrysalis, smooth, of a golden lustre, hanging suspended to a fixed
point, without feet, and subsisting without food ; this insect again under-
goes another transformation, acquires wings and six feet, and becomes a
variegated white butterfly, living by suction upon the honey of plants.
What has Nature produced more worthy of our admiration ? Such an ani-
mal coming upon the stage of the world, and playing its part there under
so many different masks ! In the egg of the Papilio, the epidermis or ex-
ternal integument falling off, a caterpillar is disclosed ; the second epidermis
drying, and being detached, it is a chrysalis ; and the third, a butterfly. It
should seem that the ancients were so struck with the transformations of
the butterfly, and its revival from a seeming temporary death, as to have con-
sidered it as an emblem of the soul, the Greek word psyche signifying both
the soul and a butterfly. This is also confirmed by their allegorical sculp-
tures, in which the butterfly occurs as an emblem of immortality.' Swara-
raerdam, speaking of the metamorphosis of insects, uses these strong words :
* This process is formed in so remarkable a manner in butterflies, that we
see therein the resurrection painted before our eyes, and exemplified so as
to be examined by our hands.' * There is no one,' says Paley, * who does
not possess some particular train of thought, to which the mind naturally
directs itself, when left entirely to its own operations. It is certain, too,
that the choice of this train of thinking may be directed to different ends,
and may appear to be more or less judiciously fixed, but in a moral view,
if one train of thinking be more desirable than another, it is that which
regards the phenomena of nature with a constant reference to a supreme
intelligent Author. The works of nature want only to be contemplated.
In every portion of them which we can descry, we find attention bestowed
upon the minutest objects. Every organised natural body, in the provisions
which it contains for its sustentation and propagation, testifies a care, on
the part of the Creator, expressly directed to these purposes. We are on
all sides surrounded by bodies wonderfully curious, and no less wonderfully
diversified.' Trifling, therefore, and, perhaps, contemptible, as to the un-
thinking may seem the study of a butterfly, yet, when we consider the art
and mechanism displayed in so minute a structure, the fluids circulating in
vessels so small as almost to escape the sight, the beauty of their wings and

R 4*

240 Loudon^ s Ericyclopcedia of Plants,

covering, and the manner in which each part is adapted for its peculiar
functions, we cannot but be struck with wonder and admiration, and must
feel convinced that the Maker of all has bestowed equal skill in every class
of animated beings ; and also allow with Paley, that * the production of
beauty was as much in the Creator's mind in painting a butterfly, as in
giving symmetry to the human form.'

" ' To see all things in God,' say the authors of the Introduction to En-
tomologi/y * has been accounted one of the peculiar privileges of a future
state ;' and in this present life, * to see God in all things, in the mirror of
the creation to behold and adore the reflected glory of the Creator, is no
mean attainment ; and it possesses this advantage, that thus we sanctify our
pursuits, and, instead of loving the creatures for themselves, are led, by the
survey of them, and their instincts, to the love of him who made and en-
dowed them.' The more, then, we study the works of creation, the more
will the wisdom and the goodness of the Creator be manifested ; and while
we admire the order and harmony of the whole, or the beauty and variety
of its parts, it will be impossible not to adore ' Him who is wise in heart,
and wonderful in working ; ' and at the same time confess, with humility of
soul, that ' The hand that made them is divine.' *' (p. 19.)

After the preface follows an introduction, in which is discussed the gene-
ral character of the order Lepidoptera, and the natural as well as practical
history of diurnal Lepidoptera, or butterflies. These form the Linnean
genus Papilio, which is subdivided into numerous genera by modern ento-
mologists. These modern genera are here described, and a number of them
figured, so that there cannot be a better book for a beginner in this study ;
and we are therefore desirous most strongly to recommend it, regretting that
a press of matter prevented us from rendering the authoress this justice
last butterfly-season. — T.
Loudon, J. C.y Editor, with the assistance of Professor Lindley, Mr. Sowerby,

and others: The Encyclopaedia of Plants; comprising all those in

Britain, either indigenous or cultivated, flowering or without Flowers;

with Figures illustrating one Species or more of every Genus, all the

Classes and Orders, and many of the Botanical Terras. London. 1 vol.

8V0, pp. 1159. 4/. 14*. 6d.

This work, the labour of nearly ten years, is intended to be in botany,
what a Johnson's Dictionary and English Grammar are in the English
language ; and, if it is properly executed, it ought to hold the same place
amongst English botanists, as a grammar and dictionary hold amongst Eng-
lish readers. In a short time the character of its execution will become
known ; meanwhile, its editor can recommend the book for the objects
stated with the more confidence, since by far the greater part of the
volume is the labour of Professor Lindley and Mr. Sowerby.
Smith, Gerard Edwards, Esq., of St. John's College, Oxford : A Catalogue

of rare and remarkable Plants collected in South Kent, with descriptive

Notices and Observations. London, 1829. Svo, 6 col. pis.

Here is an author whose names usher him into the presence of natural-
ists under the most favourable auspices, and who furnishes a whimsical
speculation how far his baptism and his botany are cause and eflfect. How-
ever this may be, he does credit to his patronymics, and discovers great
sagacity in distinguishing plants. The district he has examined compre-
hends Weald clay, green sand, chalk, and plastic clay ; and he has not been
unobserving of the limitations which these strata present to the diffusion of
particular plants.

Mr. Gerard Smith was already known to English botanists as having
made the discovery of O'phrys arachnites, which stands recorded in the
English Flora upon his authority. In this " catalogue" he has elaborately
worked out the character of that species, and those of O. aranifera and fus-
clfera, while he has added coloured delineations of them, as well as other

Literary Notices, 241

plants : still, the intermediate varieties which he finds, throw some doubts
on the permanency of his distinctions. Sir James Smith regards the
O. arachnites of Kent, and fuscifera, as furnishing good specific charac-
ters, and as being identical with the foreign specimens bearing those names.
Whether it really be so may still be doubtful ; but, in so interesting a tribe
as the insectiferous Orchideae, even the ordinary observer will be grateful
to him for his laboured observations.

Another discovery of this " fine-nosed herbalist," as Wordsworth would
call him, is Orobanche caryophyllacea of Sir James Smith, which was sup-
posed to be confined to the Apennines and Siberia. It is allied to O. major,
but is, no doubt, a better species than some others of this intricate genus.

The trefoils and medicks have attracted the author's particular attention ;
and he adds the Medicago denticulata Willd. to our native list. His wood-
cut of the spines of the legume of several species, though an after-thought,
deserves attention.

Ray's plant, Z/imonium minus, the author elevates to the rank of a spe-
cies under the name of ^tatice cordata, in which he seems to be fully war-
ranted by the practice of modern botanists. He also directs attention to a
remarkable variety of Lathrae^a squanjaria, which, he thinks, may prove
distinct.

The observations on the mode of impregnation in Ruppia maritima de-
serve to be repeated by one so favourably situated for the purpose as Mr.
Gerard Smith is. He does not agree with Dr. Hooker's theory that the
impregnation takes place beneath the water, and within the sheath of the
leaves, before the flower-stalks are elongated, but thinks that Sir J. Smith
abandoned his own opinion, and adopted that of Dr. Hooker, too hastily.

If we were disposed to find fault with an author who really has shown
great acuteness and quickness of observation, we might, perhaps, remark that
he appears to be too ready to adopt species, which, unless they be well esta-
blished, are the bane of science. He might also be censured for being occa-
sionally too sentimental and pictorial in his composition, when treating of
trivial matters ; a fault, alas ! which time will correct soon enough, and
which we willingly screen, and think abundantly redeemed by the ardour of
which it is characteristic. — CC/*

Art. III. Literary Notices.

The Gardens and Menagerie of the Zoological Society delineated ;
being Descriptions and Figures in Illustration of the Natural History of
living Animals in the Society's Collections. Published, with the Sanction
of the Council, under the Superintendence of the Secretary and Vice-
Secretary of the Society. This work will appear in 8vo parts, monthly.
" At the request of the Council, the Secretary of the Society, N. A. Vigors,
Esq., has in the kindest manner consented to charge himself with the task
of superintending the execution of every department of the work. The
descriptions and anecdotes in illustration of the natural history of the ani-
mals represented will be furnished by E.T. Bennett, Esq., the Vice-Secretary.
The whole of the drawings will be made by Mr. William Harvey, who
has already given so many proofs of his talent in this department of his
art ; and the engravers, Messrs. Branston and Wright, will exert their
utmost skill to do justice to the efforts of his pencil.'*

We have seen a specimen of the first part, than which, in the way of
engravings on wood, we have seen nothing superior.

Agenda Geognosiica. — The veteran mineralogist, Leonhard, is about to
publish Agenda Geognosiica, or a Manual for Travellers in Mountainous
Districts.

PART III.
COLLECTANEA.

Art. L General Subject.

Active Molecules. — Fifteen years ago. Dr. Drummond, now Professor of
Anatomy and Physiology in the Belfast Academical Institution, detected
these bodies in the choroid coat of a haddock's eye, and published an
account of the discovery, at that time, in his thesis De Oculi Anatomia
Comparativa. He described them as long and spicular, various in size, and
with the glitter of polished silver, so intense, that, when viewed in sunshine,
the eye could scarcely bear its brightness. Multitudes revolved continually
round their axis, while other and larger particles, after lying motionless for a
little time, described three or four semicircles, and then sank into their former
quiescence. These they repeated at short intervals, when they vanished to
reappear in the same spot after the lapse of two or three minutes. This sin-
gular movement was only observable in the larger corpuscles, the smaller
glittering in perpetual revolution around their axis. The motion could
not have proceeded from evaporation, for whether the fluid were com-
pressed between plates of glass, or covered with oil, it continued ; nor from
electricity, for neither attraction nor repulsion was exhibited ; nor from the
agitation of the water, for then the other molecules should have shown a
similar motion. " To suppose these particles," says the Doctor, " possessed
of vitality may appear repugnant to reason, but I can conjecture no other
way in which the phenomenon can be explained." The above-mentioned
thesis was published in 1814, and a more detailed account was given
in the Transactions of the Edinburgh Royal Society for the same year, in a
paper " On certain Appearances observed in the Eyes of Fishes ; " a title by
no means inviting, which may perhaps account for the little attention which
the communication received.

To these spicula, as he afterwards ascertained, the metallic colour
of fishes is owing ; and to observe them in a very simple manner no-
thing more is necessary than to scrape some of the scales off a salmon or
herring, where the metallic or silvery tint is brightest; put them into
a wine-glass with a tea-spoonful or two of water, and stir them so that the
silvery film which is attached to the under surface of the scales may sepa-
rate. That film is composed of the moving spicula ; and when it has
whitened the water in the slightest degree, put a drop of the latter on any
black or very dark surface in the sunshine, the stronger the light the better,
and, with the naked eye, thousands of brilliant particles may be observed as
busy as motes in the sunbeam. In the microscope also the light must fall
on them ; for they seem to be very opaque, and it is only by reflected light
that they can be observed. — t

Art. II. Zoology *

The Cuckoo. — Sir, Reading what you say relative to the cuckoo in
your Magazine of Natural History, I beg to inform you that about fifteen
years ago I obtained a cuckoo from the nest of (I think) a hedge sparrow,
at Old Brompton, where I then resided. It was rather curious, as being

Zoology. 243

within ten yards of my house, Cromwell Cottage, and in a narrow and much
frequented lane, leading from near Gloucester Lodge to Kensington. This
bird I reared and kept alive till late in January ; when it fell suddenly from
its perch, while feeding on a rather large dew worm. It was buried : but I
had, long afterwards, strange misgivings, that my poor feathered favourite was
only choked by his food, or in a fit of some kind — his apparent death was
so extremely unexpected from his health and liveliness at the time. I assure
you that I regretted my loss much, my bird being in full plumage and a very
handsome creature. He was quite tame, for in autumn I used to set him
on a branch of a tree in the garden, while I dug worms for him to dine upon,
and he never attempted more than a short friendly flight. During the
coldest weather, and it was rather a sharp winter, my only precaution was,
nearly to cover the cage with flannel ; and when I used to take it off, more
or less, on coming into my breakfast, room in the morning, I was recognised
by him with certainly not all the cry " unpleasant to a married ear," but
with its full half " Cuckl Cuck!" — the only sounds or notes I ever heard
from my bird. Though trifling, these facts may be so far curious as illus-
trating the natural history of a remarkable genus, and I have great pleasure
in offering them for your excellent Journal. — W. Jerdan.* Brompton.

Nuthatch. — Sir, In confirmation of the account by your correspondent
H. S. (Vol. I. p. 528.) of the persevering exertions of the nuthatch to escape
from confinement, I beg to offer you a corroborating instance, which fell
under my own observation. When a boy I occasionally amused myself,
like other youths, with setting traps for birds, constructed, according to the
ordinary method employed for that purpose, of four bricks, one of which
was propped up in an oblique position, ready to fall down and secure the
bird on its entering the trap. In one of these traps I ensnared a nuthatch.
How long it might have remained in confinement, I cannot at this distance
of time exactly state, but most probably not more than a few hours. On
taking the bird from the trap, I was struck with the singular formation of
the beak, so unlike that of any other bird I had ever seen. It was blunt at
the end, and presented the appearance of having been truncated in an
oblique direction i. e. as if the natural beak {fig. 69. b\ -^^ \ fiQ ^

had been cut off in the direction of the line (a). Hav- ^^^^fe^^^^^-^'^^^O
ing never before examined a specimen so closely, I ''^^^y^ "^"^ *
at first thought this apparent truncation constituted ■"^^^ ^^

the natural conformation of the beak ; but I soon perceived that it had
been fairly ground down to about two thirds of its original length, by the
bird's pecking at the bricks in its efforts to escape from the trap.

As your correspondent does not enter much upon the habits of this
amusing bird in its natural wild state, it may not be uninteresting to notice
the expertness it occasionally exhibits while engaged in the operation of
piercing the shells of nuts, &c. The bird fixes the nut in a chink or cre-
vice of the bark of a tree, or the Hke, and commences a vigorous attack
upon the shell by forcibly and repeatedly striking it with its beak. This
knocking (as your correspondent observes from White) may be heard to a
considerable distance. During the operation, it sometimes happens that
the nut swerves from its fixture, and falls towards the ground ; it has not
descended, however, for the space of more that a few yards, when the nut-
hatch, with admirable adroitness, recovers it in its fall, and replacing it in
its former position, commences the attack afresh. The fall of the nut in
the air, and its recovery by the bird on the wing, I have seen repeated
several times in the space of a few minutes. Whether the nuthatch seizes
the falling nut with its beak, or, as is more probable, with its grasping feet,
I am not able positively to determine. — W. T. Bree. Nov. 15. 1828.

* The learned and witty editor of the Literary Gazette,

244

Zoology.

Developement of the Eggs of Spiders. — In spiders* eggs, M. Harold has
observed a membrane corresponding to the shell of those of birds, also the
white or albumen and the yolk and scar. But the yolk has no proper
membrane, though it passes into the intestinal canal. The scar is also ob-
servable, and disperses itself in granules ; and the vv^hite, instead of being
absorbed by the young animal, as in birds, is the matter out of which is
formed all its members, a circumstance that constitutes the principal dif-
ference between the eggs of birds and spiders.

The eggs of spiders, which are laid in the autumn, remain throughout the
winter enclosed in a silken web ; on the approach of summer they gradually
change into their active perfect form. The progress of this transformation
has been M, Harold's study, and his observations are detailed with great
perspicuity in his Unters, uber die Bildungsg. der Wiebellosen Thiere im Eie.
The eggs, in their dormant state, every body knows, are very small
iftg.lO. a) ; magnified (6), the scar or germ is discern-
ible (c"). The first change is this germ dispersing its €>**
granules into the albumen, which attach themselves
to the vitellus, or yolk ; and, after being expanded in
this manner, it assumes the figure of a comet in the
interior of the mass. When the albumen becomes as
it were saturated with these grains from the germ, or
vital principle, it is then called colliquamentum ; and,
when sufficiently coagulated, is for the present called ^^
cambium. This cambium becomes divided into two
Dnequal parts : the smaller portion {fig. 71. a) being uppermost, is called
the cephalic cambium,\t being that from which the head
of the animal is afterwards formed ; and the greater
portion (6), situated below, is called the thoracic cam-
bimn, from which the body is composed. Soon after
this division of the cambium, it is seen marked with
the rudiments of the limbs and other parts, eyes,
breast, &c. ; next, the lower extremities become
moulded from that portion of the cambium called the
abdominal. In process of time all the parts of the frame
have gained form and consistence, the animal secre-
tions commence, and the actions of the legs 72
and palpi begin by throwing off the thin skin
which enveloped the whole mass. {^g. 72.)
Some time passes before the young spider is
very active ; he feels a kind of torpor until
his frame is sufficiently fitted for his wander-
ing predatory life. It was on the eggs of the
ArknesL diadema that M. Harold made the
observations, from which the foregoing is a
brief extract. — J .M.

Musical Snails. — As I was sitting in my room, on the first floor, about
nine P.M. (4th of October last), I was surprised with what I supposed to be
the notes of a bird, under or upon the sill of the window. My impression
was, that they somewhat resembled the notes of the wild duck in its noc-
turnal flight, and, at times, the twitter of a red-breast, in quick succession.
To be satisfied on the subject, I carefully removed the shutter, and, to my
surprise, found it was a garden snail, which, in drawing itself along the glass,
had produced sounds similar to those elicited from the musical glasses. —
Sam. Woodward. Diana Square, Norwich, Aprils. 1829.

Developement of the Eggs of the Common Crab {Cancer Pagurus, L.) —
In a late number of his Zoological Researches, Mr. J. V. Thompson of
Cork has given some additional particulars relative to the animal of the
supposed genus Zoea, which he considers as the larva of the common crab.

\

Botany, 245

having hatched it from the eggs of the latter. His notes are accompanied
by a magnified representation of the minute creature {fig. 13. a, antennae ;
/, feet ; s, one of the lateral spines) together with
a second figure, of the natural size, for compa-
rison (between s and/). He states that, after
numerous fruitless attempts, he at length [)ro-
cured, in 1827, examples of the crab with
spawn apparently ready to hatch, and succeed-
ed in protecting one individual until young
burst from their envelopes, and swam about in
myriads, under the exact form given in the
plate. In this stage, he adds, they are colour-
less, and transparent as glass, except the dark
central part of each eye, and a blackish dot
on each side every abdominal segment, the
dorsal spine exhibiting a pale pink tint, for
nearly half its length, from the point down-
wards.

We cannot but recommend the example of
Mr. Thompson to our other friends on the
sea-coast, some of whom will, we doubt not, be stimulated by his success,
as well as assisted by the clue which he has afforded, in the investigation
of this highly interesting subject. As several forms of Zoea have now
been described and figured, it is perhaps but fair to presume that they
are the young of as many forms of Decapodous Crustacea; and it may
not be too much to imagine that the whole order will be found, on
examination, to be subject to the same laws of metamorphosis which regu-
late at least one of its species. At all events, here is an ample field oF
study opened for the careful observer. — E.

Art. in. Botany,

Drying Plants. — As one main object of your Magazine is to assist
the tyro in natural history, I do not hesitate to send you some details
of the process of drying plants, which I have, from time to time, adopted,
and can, from pretty long experience of their efficacy, safely recommend. I
entirely approve, and have long practised, the principle stated in Mr. Bree's
letter (Vol. I. p. 298.), of frequently changing the papers as they become
moist, but have satisfied myself with replacing them by others thoroughly
dry without heating them. Heated papers will, no doubt, shorten the pro-
cess and more effectually preserve the colours. I would, therefore, advise
their being always employed ; and what follows is little more than a detail
of the principle laid down in the letter above alluded to. Always gather
the root with herbaceous plants, and, if possible, select a specimen with
part of the head in seed as well as in flower. Clear away the soil, &c.,
and when quite dry place the plant between the papers, holding down the
parts adjusted with the left hand while regulating the remaind^, and taking
care to display any particular part which marks the generic or specific cha-
racter. Instead of employing only two sheets of paper, lay three or four
both above and below the plant to absorb a greater portion of the moisture,
and place detached pieces of soft paper, folded into the required shape, size,
and thickness, on each side the stem and more prominent parts, and, if ne-
cessary, over the petals and leaves. This will equalise the pressure, and add
much to the beauty of the specimen. Different plants require different
degrees of pressure, accordingly as their texture is more or less firm ; and a
less degree of pressure should always be used the first two or three days of
the process, than as they approach desiccation, to prevent extravasation of

24i^ Geology a7id Mineralogy,

the juices. Succulent plants may be left exposed 12 or 24 hours (sometimes
several days) before pressing, to render them flaccid and more conformable;
and the interior parts of their stems, if bulky, and also all but the outer
coats of tunicated bulbs, may be removed by making a longitudinal incision
on the side that is to lie next the paper. On the first removal of the moist
paper, any irregularities in the disposition and folding of the leaves, &c.,
may be easily rectified, as they will then be partially flattened and more
pliant ; and, on every subsequent removal, the plants may remain exposed
for half an hour or an hour on a table, and submitted to a gentle cuiTent
of air. This will carry off much moisture, and hasten the process ; but
they should be again placed under pressure when the petals begin to curl up
or contract. The operation of changing the papers should be repeated
morning and evening for the first few days, and afterwards once a day ; as
a general rule the oftener the better, particularly plants with purple or blue
flowers, from which confined moisture very soon discharges the colour.
After the drying is completed, it will be well to place the specimens in an
oven with a gentle heat and under a very slight pressure, which, in the
course of a night, will effectually drive off any remaining moisture that may
have lurked in the central parts of thick stems, flower-buds. Sec. If the
oven be resorted to in the earlier stages of drying, the necessary pressure
will confine the moist heated juices, and destroy the colours. I have found
great advantage in dry weather in placing my press close to a window, open-
ing the latter only just enough to throw a current of air round the sides of
the press to carry off" the moisture as it is given out. My presses are of the
simplest kind : flat boards, or covers of books, on which I place weights,
bricks, or books, to obtain the requisite pressure. Many layers of plants
may be put under the same press, weighting it accordingly. These details
may appear trifling ; but when I recollect how slowly I surmounted one
difficulty after another, I feel a pleasure in thinking they may be of service
to some of your young readers, who, like myself, at the commencement of
their botanical pursuits, may have no experienced friend at hand to direct
them. — J, E. Bowman.

Art. IV, Geology and Mineralogy,

Fossil Shells unpublished, — Sir, Extensive as is the catalogue of fossil
shells (p. 26.), it might be considerably augmented by unpublished species ;
and I subjoin a list which you may perhaps think worthy a place in your
Miscellany. My cabinet contains entire specimens of all therein enume-
rated, with the exception of those against which an asterisk is affixed, and of
which I as yet possess only imperfect specimens. I have also some other
fragments, but they are not perfect enough to determine the genera.

Simple Univalves.

Gen.

No.

of Species.

Gen.

No. of Spec

^alanus

m

Pileopsis

.

2

Bulimus ?

.

Paludina ? (small)

2

Bdlla (lignaria) -

_

Pleurotoma

_

2

Cancellaria

_

Pyramidella

-

1

Cerlthium

_

Rostellaria

.

l»

Cypr^^a

r_

S^rpula

-

;- 2

Infundibulum

.

Solarium

-

1

Melania

.

Trochus

-■

2

ifcfurex

"

T^rebra

..

1

O'vula

_

Vermicularia

.

1

Patella

■■

Geology and Mineralogy,

^4^1

Simple Bivalves.

Gen. No. of Species.

Anomia - - 1

Cardium (echinatum) - 2

Chh.ma . - i

A reversed var. of Cliama
squamosa, i. e. the lower
or adherent valve turns
the contrary way. ,

Donax - - 1

Lima - - 1

Lucina (divaricata) - 2

Lutraria - - 1*

Gen.

Mactra

Modiola

Nucula (rostrata)

O'strea

Panopae^^

Pinna

Psammotea ?

Pholas (cuspatus)

Tellina

Venu*

Pullastra

No. of Species.
1
1
2
2
2
1*
1
1
4
5
1

The above shells are from the Crag formation, and are in addition to
those published in Mr. Taylor's article (p. 26.) ; I am not aware they have
hitherto been anywhere published. — S.V. W. Woodbridge, March, 1829.

Geological Hammer. — Sir, Having had occasion
for the use of a geological hammer, which should
unite the qualities of power and compactness, it
occurred to me, that an elastic handle, applied to
one of Knight's Trimming Hammers, would effec-
tually answer my purpose. I therefore selected one
of that kind which is marked No. 5. in Knight's
plate and description of Geological and Mineralo-
gical Instruments and Apparatus {fig. 74.), and,
removing the handle of wood, attached it to an
elastic handle of leather, and it has answered ex-
tremely well, during a long campaign amongst the
rocks of Germany, serving every purpose which I
wished it to serve.

The construction of the handle is as follows : —
Three narrow slips of soling leather having been se-
lected of the length most convenient, I caused them
to be firmly glued together, so as that the grain of the
exterior pieces should be in a different direction from
that of the enclosed piece. The whole was then
rounded, and reduced from the extremity upwards,
till it fitted the aperture in the metal, and then by
two small wedges of wood driven in between the
slips of leather the whole was firmly secured. The
handle was then strongly bound with twine, round
and round, from the one end to the other. I would
certainly recommend this plan in preference to a
vine-wood handle, or any other, as it is not liable to
break, possesses a nearly perfect elasticity, and pre-
serves its shape. — W. B. Clarke. East Bergholt,
Suffolk, Nov. 24. 1828.

Schorl, dark-coloured mica, slate (except it is very light-coloured), and
many other minerals, attract the magnetic needle, after being exposed to the
reducing flame. In some cases it is sufficient to attach a fragment of the
mineral to be examined to the end of the platina wire, by means of a part
of the moistened powder of the same substance ; in others, the whole must
be reduced to powder, and a little borax added before it is exposed to the
flame, to enable it to act upon the needle. This character, which is useful
in leading us to a knowledge of one of the component parts of a mineral,
as well as enabling us to distinguish it from others, appears for the most
part to have escaped the observation of mineralogists, at least it is seldom
noticed in their works. — W, H, M,

248 Meteorology,

Art. V. Meteorology,

Almanacks. — In the essay on almanacks, in the Companion to the Almanack
for 1829, published by the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, it
is stated (p. 7.) that at the present day none of the almanacks of the Conti-
nental states contain any misleading matters similar to the astrological pre-
dictions of that of Moore. This is a mistake. I have now lying before me
an almanack for 1829, professing to be compiled " par Maitre Mathieu Laens-
bergh, Math^maticien," and printed at Li^ge for nearly a century past;
which is in as much repute in the Netherlands as Moore^s Almanack is in
England, being universally read by the Flemish peasantry and lower classes ;
and in which not less than twenty-five pages are filled with predictions of
the weather, and of political events*, besides an " Extrait des proph^ties
perp^tuelles de Thomas Joseph Moult, natifde Naples; pour I'annee 1829 ;"
in which this great astrologer, whose name, I fear, is unknown in England,
departing from the wary obscurity of his brother Moore, boldly proclaims
that the spring will be fine, the summer wet, and the autumn cold and late.
This little volume, of about 150 pages (which include some useful matter
on agriculture, gardening, &c.), and of the price of about threepence, con-
cludes with an " Almanach des Bergers pour I'annee 1829," wholly com-
posed of hieroglyphics (previously explained), as a glove for frost, an awl
for strong frost, a fan for heat, &c. &c., and in this the actual weather is
predicted for every day of the year : as that on the 1st of January it would
freeze, on the 6th it would snow, on the 9th it would rain, and so on.
Another line of hieroglyphics indicates what days are suitable for sowing,
grafting, &c., and also for cutting the hair, and cutting the nails. It is
evident, therefore, that we are not single in absurdity, but in fact outdone
by our Flemish neighbours ; and, I believe, one astrological almanack is
published in France, or more. How the case may be in Germany I am
ignorant ; but I am inclined to think that the labours of societies, like that
in England for the diffusion of useful knowledge, directed to the reform-
ation of the almanacks, are as much wanted throughout Europe as with us.
— W. S. Brussels, March 20. 1829.

* One of the shortest of the " Predictions pour I'annee 1829," will serve
both as a specimen of the riddles, over which the Flemings have to ponder
during the long winter evenings, and of the tone of political feeling to
which they are adapted. The whole series is introduced by this address : —

" Au Lecteur. — Doutez ou croyez, peu importe; les ^venemens que je
predis ne s'accompliront pas moins.

" Janvier. ~~ Voeux interesses mais superflus. — Puissant qui tombe,
mediocre qui s'^leve. — II fallait un calculateur : ce fut un danseur qu'on
choisit. — Lutte sanglante etobstin^e. — La croix brille a Torient. — Naza-
rin faisait chanter ses contribuables : certain ministre fera pleurer les siens. —
Belle alliance qui se prepare. — Ddfaite inattendue, r^sultat inesper^. —
Quelle leyon pour les rois 1 Hommes libres, reprenez courage."

[" To the Reader. Doubt or believe, it matters little; my predictions will
not the less be accomplished. — January. Wishes selfish but vain. — The
powerful falls, the weak rises. — An arithmetician was wanted : they chose a
dancer. — Strife bloody and obstinate. — The cross shines in the East. —
Nazarin made his tax-payers sing : a certain minister will make his weep. —
A fair alliance is in preparation. — Unexpected defeat, unhoped for result.
— What a lesson for kmgs ! Freemen, take courage."]

24-9

PART IV.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. Natural History in Foreign Countries.

FRANCE.

Collection of Natural History from Pondicherry. — Messrs. Cuvier,Des-
fontaines, and Dumeril read a report, at a recent sitting of the Academy of
Sciences, on the collections of natural history made by the officers of the
Chevrette, daring her voyage to Pondicherry. The specimens brought
home include 16 species of the mammalia, 256 of birds, 31 of reptiles, 238
of fishes, 271 of mollusca, 16 of the annelides, 132 of Crustacea, 590 of in-
sects and spiders, and 161 of zoophytes. Many of these are altogether new
to science ; and we are indebted for them solely to the enlightened zeal of
the officers, as it formed no part of their duty to attend to natural history.
{Le Globe.)

rngcnuity of a Beaver at Paris. — A beaver from the Rhine is now, or
was latel}^ in the royal collection in the Jardin des Plantes at Paris, which
exhibited as much ingenuity as has ever been ascribed to the species in a
wild state, and more than enough to silence the incredulity of sceptics
respecting the beavers' dams, and their magazines of winter provisions.
This beaver, for instance, we are informed by M. GeofFroi St. Hilaire, was,
during the severe weather in winter, furnished with fresh twigs of trees, to
give exercise to his propensity to gnawing, and with apples, &c., as a more
nutritive food. One night there came on a snow storm, and the snow beat
into his domicile in considerable quantity, till he found out a plan of shield-
ing himself from the inconvenience. For this purpose, he cut his supply of
twigs into proper lengths, to be wove in the basket fashion, between the
bars of his cage; chopped his apples in pieces, to fill up the intervals
between the twigs ; and, when even this did not appear sufficiently air-
tight, or (if you will) storm-tight, he kneaded the snow into the intervals.
By the morning it appeared that he had laboured hard all night, and had
completed a very neat and ingenious barricado against the intrusion of the
snow. {Athencsum, Nov. 19.)

The Cuckoo. — The Continental naturalists have raised a controversy
respecting the species of the common cuckoo, which is found to vary con-
siderably in the colour of its plumage, one being thence called the red and
another the grey cuckoo ; the former supposed to be the Cuculiis hepaticus
of Latham, and the latter the C. canorus of Linnaeus. M. Payrandeau,
however, states distinctly, on the authority of a series of specimens, as well
as of repeated dissection, that both the male and female young of the Cii-
culus canorus, before the first moult, have the same colour : that, after the
first moult, the males have a deep olive ash colour, and the red spots have
already begun to disappear; in the females, on the contrary, the red spots
become brighter and larger : that, at the third moult, the red spots on the
male disappear altogether, while in the female they continue to the most
Vol. IL — No. 8. s

250 Natural History in Foreign Countries.

advanced age, when it puts on the plumage of an old male, of which change
M. Payrandeau possesses a specimen. M. Temminck, again, whose autho-
rity is very high, regards the red cuckoo as the young of the grey cuckoo
of one year old ; but Vieillot, the father of the French ornithologists, as
well as Meyer, Jules, Delamothe, and Baillon of Abbeville, agree with M.
Payrandeau. {Bulletin des Sciences.')

Submergence of the Continents. — M. Constant Prevost has just published
an interesting memoir on the geological question, whether our continents
have been submerged oftener than once. He attempts to prove that there
do not exist, under alluvial formations, any beds or strata which can be
regarded as having formed the surface of an ancient continent, covered
for a considerable time with land vegetables, and inhabited by land animals,
before it was enveloped in marine deposits. The debris of vegetables and
of land animals, sometimes found in vertical positions in sandstone, in
diluvial strata, or in caverns, he supposes to be wholly accidental, and
originating in the sea invading a country previously inhabited. He thence
proceeds to explain the formation of the basins of London, Paris, and the
Isle of Wight, according to the following series of epochs : —

1 . A deep tranquil sea deposited the two varieties of chalk which com-
pose the bottom and the sides of the great tertiary basins.

2. Then, by the ocean becoming shallower, the great basin would be
formed into a gulf, in which chalk-breccias and plastic clay would be
deposited, and covered by the marine remains of the first coarse limestone.

5. The deposition was next interrupted by some commotion, which sen-
sibly broke and displaced the strata. The basin then became a salt-water
lake, traversed by copious streams of water, flowing alternately from the sea
and from the continents, and producing a mixture, presenting the second
coarse limestone, siliceous limestone, and gypsum.

4. A large volume of fresh water, charged with clay and marl, burst into
the basin, still forming in the middle a deposit of marine bivalve shells, the
basin becoming a lake of brackish water.

5. The lake now ceased to communicate with the ocean, the level of the
waters going on to decrease, and the muddy deposits from the continental
waters continuing.

6. The ocean burst in accidentally, whence beds of sand and the upper
marine sandstone were deposited ; and, soon after, the basin being drained,
continued only fresh water, of little depth. There was now much less
influx of water ; animals and vegetables made their appearance, and mill-
stone grit and fresh-water limestone were deposited.

7. The succession of these different epochs was terminated by the dilu-
vian cataclysm.

GERMANY.

Natural History in Wurtemberg. — The Society denominated the Natur-
historische Reiseverein (Natural History Travelling Society), " under the
direction of the Landwirthschaftliche Verein, last year seht out two travel-
lers, whose researches were highly successful : Fleischer, who made collec-
tions of specimens of natural history in the environs of Smyrna; and
Mijller, who was employed to examine the productions of Sardinia. The
latter passed the winter at Cagliari, and will continue there this summer.
Both ( ravellers have paid particular attention to botany, and have also col-
lected a considerable number of insects, conchylia, &c. This year the So-
ciety have provided for making mineralogical researches, and have sent out
to Norway two other travellers ; one for botany, especially algology, mus-
cology, and lichnology; the other for oryctognosy and geology. The
former is Huber of Hamburg ; the latter, Kurr of Wurtemberg, an excellent
mineralogist. It is intended that they should extend their researches as
far as Lapland. Several friends of the Society at the Cape have under-

Natural History in Foreign Countries. 251

taken to form an African Flora, and have already sent to Europe between
6,000 and 7,000 specimens." {For. Rev. and Cont. Misc. Jan. 1829.)

Goats of Thibet. — The project of introducing the breed of goats of
Cashmere into Germany, has not been very favourably entertained. One
writer has pretended to show that the European goat, by a single cross,
might be brought to yield the precious article for which so much money is
sent into Asia. Another argues against the Asiatic animal, on the ground
that a single sheep of a good breed will bring four times the profits of a
goat of Thibet ; and a third, M. Schmidt, rejects their introduction into
Germany, because France has anticipated that country in the manufacture
of the merchandise in which their down is used. M. Schmidt makes the
following observations on the fleece of these animals. Judging by their
fleece, there are, he says, two sorts of goats ; one which may be called the
race of Angora, with hair long and pendent ; the other, the goat of Thibet,
with hair short and stiff. The former has no down ; the latter, on the con-
trary, is covered, during winter, with a down which is more abundant and
finer in those kept on the mountains. These two races, originally from
Asia, have produced by their mixture, aided by the influence of climate,
many varieties. On examining with attention the European goat, it will
be found also that the long-haired ones have no down ; or, if they have any,
it is in very small quantities along the vertebral column ; while of those
which have short hair, there are to be found some which have a down
spread over the entire carcass. This down grows almost to the length of
hair in the spring ; then comes off, and appears on the surface, to which it
gives a grey tint. By the mixture of these breeds a bastard race is formed,
which have more or less down ; but it is observed that the offspring partook
more of the nature of the dam than of the sire. The two principal import-
ations of the goats of Asia into Germany are those of M. Wallner of Ge-
neva, who procured them directly from Thibet ; and of M. Lowenherz, who
received them from M. Terneaux ; so that the former are goats of Thibet,
the latter Kirguises. The Emperor of Austria, the Kings of Bavaria and
Wurtemberg, all the Archdukes, and some private individuals, have pro-
cured goats of the former importation. They have been introduced into
Saxony by M. de Buest, on his domain of Tossfell. {^Bulletin des Sciences
Nattirelles.)

Breeding of Leeches. — M. Mehrer of Maulbronn, by turning his atten-
tion to the care of leeches, has succeeded in introducing the breed of those
Mollusca into Wurtemberg, and in producing them in such quantities as to
dispense with all importation from abroad. He received a premium of
twenty ducats and a silver medal as a reward for his efforts. {Allgemeine
Literatur Zeitung.)

SWITZERLAND.

A Society of Naturalists is formed here, for the purpose of exploring the
more elevated regions of the Alps, which hitherto have been considered as
inaccessible. M. Hugi, a leading member of the association, after surmount-
ing last year some almost insuperable difficulties, succeeded in obtaining
much valuable geological information in the same districts. {London
Weekly Rev , April 4. 1829.)

Natural History Societies. — There are no less than ten societies for
natural history in Switzerland, as we learn from the speech of the president
of the Society at Lausanne.

HOLLAND AND THE NETHERLANDS.

Fossil Bones in Brabant. — Mr. Charles Morrens has just published a
pamphlet, entitled Revue Systematique des Nouvelles De'couvertes d'Ossemens

S 2

252 Natural History in Foreign Countries.

Fossiles faites dans le Brabant Meridional, with lithographic plates. This
pamphlet contains facts and observations highly interesting to the history of
geology. The researches and discoveries made by the author, prove that
there formerly existed in this country not only animals hke those of the
equinoctial regions, but also other species, such as still exist near the pole.
The fossil bones discovered in several places belong to animals of the fol-
lowing species : the badger, the elephant, hippo[)Otanuis, the whale, spar-
rows, water-fowl, reptiles of various kinds, tortoises, lizards, toads, and
various fishes. The quarries of St. Gilles, Milsbroek, Suventhem, Woluwe,
and in the environs of Brussels, have furnished the greater part of those
bones, which appear to be antediluvian. {Bidl. Univ.)

RUSSIA.

The Museum Alexandinnum, at Petersburg, is now completed, and open to
the public. It contains a rich collection of natural curiosities and anato-
mical preparations, together with a valuable library of modern books. {For.
Rev., and Cant. Misc., July, 1828.)

The Museum of Natural History at Abo, an extensive philosophical appa-
ratus, and a library of more than 30,000 volumes, were burnt in the late
dreadful conflagration. Mr. John Bowring has appealed to the literary and
scientific world to contribute towards the reparation of this loss. He says,
" the inhabitants of Finland are almost universally poor, but as universally
deserving of instruction ; and of late many men have appeared among them
who have done no inconsiderable service to sciences, philosophy, and the
belles-lettres. So much have even the Finnish peasants been touched
by the destruction of the Abo library, that in some places, where money is
little known, they have subscribed the produce of their farms towards its
restoration ; and among them the villagers of Wichtis sent fifty barrels of
rye ; the university of Dorpal has contributed 394 scientific works, besides
many philosophical instruments, and collections in natural history. One
liberal Russian bookseller (M. Hartmann of Riga) has presented books to
the value of 5357 silver rubles, or nearly 800/. sterling; his townsman,
M. German, sent 193 volumes; Dr. Hasser, of Petersburgh, 995; and Pro-
fessor Storch (whose works on political economy are so well known), 269.
Many other useful and generous donations have been received ; and it is
confidently trusted that examples so honourable will find many imitators in
Britain. The publishers of the Foreign Review will most cheerfully assist
in receiving and forwarding any works, instruments, &c., which may be
liberally given to the Abo University Library." We have sent Vol. I. of
this Magazine, and a few other volumes which were presented to us for the
purpose of being reviewed. — Cond.

Composition of Hailstones. — On analysing small stones enclosed in hail,
which fell in the circle of Sterlitamak, in the government of Oneaburg,
they were found to contain, in 100 parts of red oxide of iron, 70*00 of oxide
of manganese, 7-50 alum, 3'75 silica, 7-50 sulphur, and waste 5*00. {Bulle-
tin des Sciences Nat.)

ASIA. '

Cochineal trans^jlanted to Java. — The success with which the cultivation
of the nopal and the breeding of the insect which produces cochineal have
been practised at Cadiz, and thence at Malta, is well known. A French
apothecary is said to have made the experiment in Corsica, but on a very
confined scale; and the King of the Netherlands, on information that the
Isle of Java was well adapted for the cultivation of this important article of
merchandise,determined on attempting the transplantation into that colony.
As the exportation of the trees and of the insect is prohibited by the laws

Natural History in Foreig7i Counties. 253

of Spain, some management was requisite to acquire the means of forming
this new establishment. The following were those resorted to : — His Ma- "
jesty sent to Cadiz, and there maintained, for nearly two years, one of his
subjects, a very intelligent person, who introduced himself, and by degrees
got initiated into the Garden of Acclimation of the Economic Society,
where the breeding of this important insect is carried on. He so well ful-
filled his commission (for which the instructions, it is said, were drawn up
by his royal master himself), that he succeeded in procuring about one
thousand nopals, all young and vigorous, besides a considerable number of
insects ; and, moreover, carried on his plans so abl}'^, as to persuade the
principal gardener of the garden of acclimation to enter for six years into
the service of the King of the Netherlands, and to go to Batavia. Between
eight and ten thousand Spanish dollars are said to have been the lure held
out to him to desert his post. In the service of the Society he gained three
shillings a day, paid in Spanish fashion, that is, half, at least, in arrear. A
vessel of war was sent to bring away the precious cargo, which, being fur-
tively and safely shipped, the gardener and the insects were on their voyage
to Batavia before the least suspicion of what was going on was entertained
by the Society. {Bulletin des Sciences Naturelles.)

NORTH AMERICA.

Diluvian Deposits. — Mr. Eaton has just published an interesting notice
of the diluvian deposits in the state of New York, the canal of Lake Erie,
&c. In the latter, the alluvial strata occupy two parallelograms; one of 480
miles in length by 20 in breadth, commencing 20 miles to the east of Con-
necticut, and extending along the southern bank of Lake Erie ; and the
other, 280 miles in length by 70 in breadth, commencing at Crown Point,
on Lake Champlain, and running along the Hudson. It is also found in the
western valleys at the foot of Catskill. There are also many beds of plastic
clay in a deposit of clay marl, which is compared to the London clay ; but
in no part does this plastic clay constitute a formation. Along the Erie
canal, from Little Fall, a diluvian basin extends for 160 miles, having, it
should appear, been filled with three preceding deposits; the last having
been dismantled by torrents coming from Little Fall, and running towards
the west, and the valleys thence formed have been filled with gravel, sand,
clay, trees, fresh-water shells, &c. This diluvium is about 108 ft. in thick-
ness. The wood, which is Canadian pine, is buried at a great depth. The
chief shells are Helices, Uniones, and Limneae. All the plains, elevated and
crowned with virgin forests, exhibit, under the vegetable stratum, a bed of
fine earth. The antediluvian animal remains are scanty, and consist of Pa-
chydermata. (Sillinian's Joicrnal, vol. xii. p. 117.)

Anthracite. — In Rhode Island has been found a quantity of anthracite,
with which Silliman has made comparative experiments, in reference to the
anthracite of Pennsylvania. He found that it gives out an equal volume of in-
flammable gas, and burns without difficulty in furnaces built with fire-proof
bricks. It burns with a considerable red flame, and with a very intense
heat. Its colour is steel-grey, and much resembles plumbagine. The sur-
face is sometimes covered with a thin pellicle of this substance ; and small
particles of genuine plumbagine are accidentally among the schists which
company it. It sounds semi-metallic, and is somewhat of a slaty structure.
{Silliman^s Journal.)

Ancient Fish-banks near Lake Ontario. — All along the western rivers,
and little lakes near the Lake Ontario, are small mounds and heaps of gra-
vel of a conical form, erected by fish for the protection of their spawn :
these fish-banks are found at the foot of the ridge, on the side towards the
lake ; on the opposite side none have been discovered. The ridge between
Genessee and Niagara runs in a direction from east to west, with a general

S 3

25^ Natural Historij in Londoii.

altitude of 30 ft. above the neighbouring land, and more than forty yards
wide. Its elevation above the lake is about 160 ft., and its distance from
the water, to which it descends by a gentle slope, is between six and ten
miles, but at one place is not more than one. There is every reason to be-
lieve that this remarkable ridge was the ancient boundary of the lake.
{Bigbyy in Phil. Mag., N. S. v. 6.)

SOUTH AMERICA.

Changes in Animals. — All domestic mammiferous animals introduced into
America have become more numerous than the indigenous animals. The
hog multiplies very rapidly, and assumes much of the character of the wild
boar. Cows did not at first thrive, but, in St. Domingo, only twenty-seven
years after its discovery, 4000 in a herd was not uncommon, and some herds
of 8000 are mentioned. In 1587, this island exported 35,444 hides, and
New Grenada 64,350. Cows never thrive nor multiply where salt is want-
ing either in the plants or the water. They give less milk in America, and
do not give milk at all if the calves be taken from them. Among horses
the colts have all the amble, as those in Europe have the trot : this is pro-
bably a hereditary effect. Bright chestnut is the prevailing colour among
the wild horses. The lambs which are not from vierinos, but the tana
basta and burda of the Spaniards, at first are covered with wool, and when
this is timely shorn, it grows again ; if the proper time is allowed to elapse,
the wool falls off, and is succeeded by short, shining, close hair, like that of
the goat in the same climate. Every animal, it would appear, like man,
requires time to accustom itself to climate, (ili". Roulin, in Le Globe.) •

Bees' Nests. — In the woods of Brazil is frequently found hanging from
the branches the nest of a species of bee, formed of clay, and about 2 ft.
in diameter. {Bulletin des Scieiices.) It is more probable that these nests
belong to some species of wasp, many of which construct hanging nests.
One sort of these is very common in the northern parts of Britain, though
it is not often found south of Yorkshire. — J, R.

Art. II. Natural History in London.

The Zoological Society. — -The Report of Council read at the Anniversary
Meeting, April 29. has just been published. By this it appears that the
Society " is incorporated, and has become a chartered body under the name
of the * The' Zoological Society of London.* " The date of the charter is
March 7. 1829. The Council had held one meeting since, and a code of
by-laws are in preparation. The Society are to hold meetings on the
first Thursday of every month, in their house in Bruton Street. By the
statement of accounts printed in this report, the finances seem to be
flourishing.

In the Museum in Bruton Street various improvements have taken
place. " Additional cases have been erected, wherever space could be
obtained, for the exhibition of the different collections ; and two persons
have been in constant employment in preparing and setting up the more
interesting specimens. An assistant has also lately been added, for the
arrangement of the shells, insects, and the other smaller subjects of the
collection ; and much care has been bestowed upon the various depart-
ments of comparative anatomy. An instructive as well as an attractive
series in every branch of zoology, but more particularly in the groups of
mammalia, birds, and insects, has thus been arranged for inspection. A ca-
talogue of the more important objects in the Museum has been published;

Natural History in London. 255

and a more detailed list, accompanied with scientific notices of all the
species, is in preparation.

" The increase in the number of subjects in the collection during the last
year has been considerable, and many of the additions have been of the
utmost importance to science. The whole of these, with a few exceptions,
have been presented by the friends of the Society. A detailed list of these
donations, which are too numerous for insertion in this report, is laid upon
the table; a reference to the contents of which will evince that the spirit
of liberality, which laid the foundations of this already valuable collection,
has not decreased.

"A very extensive correspondence has been established with naturalists of
foreign countries, and persons resident in distant parts, who are anxious to
promote the objects of the Societ3^ Through these channels many
valuable acquisitions have been already received ; and it is expected that
much of novelty and interest will continually pour in to increase the
attractions of the Museum and Menagery.

" The Garden in the Regent's park is the principal source of attraction
and of expense. The nature of the soil, which consists of a thick un-
grateful clay, increases the cost of every work. The health of the animals
requires that oak floors be raised above the surface of the ground ; and it is
necessary to lay a thick substratum of dry material under every enclosure
and every walk. These disadvantages are however amply counterbalanced
by its immediate vicinity to the town. The Council have, notwithstanding
the nature of the soil, endeavoured to give to thfe garden all the attractions
which good cultivation and an abundance of flowers can afford : and they
have to return their thanks for the very liberal supplies for this purpose
which they have occasionally received from the Horticultural Society.
The resort to the garden has far surpassed the most sanguine expectations
of the Council; 112, 226 persons have visited it during the last year."

Nothing can be more striking, and at the same time more gratifying, than
the circumstance of the gardens being visited by such an immense number
of persons. We hope this circumstance will, in time, lead to the whole of
the Regent's Park l^eing arranged as a Zoological and Botanical Garden,
and thrown open to all the public, rich and poor. A very small tax on
each of the parishes composing the metropolis, regulated according to
distance, population, &c., would suffice for this, and we are sure, would
be most readily paid. We refer to what we have said on the subject of
public gardens, in former Numbers of this publication and of the Gardener^s
Magazine.

In naming both the animals and plants in the gardens, we would suggest
the use of small cast-iron frames, in which a card containing the name,
natural order, native country, and any characteristic fact respecting the
uses or history of each animal or plant should be placed with a glass over it,
as in the botanic garden at Glasgow. (See Gard. Mag., vol. v. p. 344.) We
consider the proper naming of the animals and plants as a matter of very great
importance to the public. Something besides the mere name ought to be
added to the card of every animal and of every plant, in order to excite
interest and lead to farther research. It is not enough that a catalogue
may be referred to, great numbers will look at the animal and the card,
who will not have it in their power, or who will not take the trouble, to
look at the catalogue; and one historical or descriptive fact, presented to the
mind along with the view of the animal itself, is worth the reading of many
others to a beginner, because it makes an impression never to be forgotten.
We earnestly hope the Council will take this matter fully into consider-
ation, in all its various bearings.

The time may perhaps come when it will be found necessary to render
Greenwich Park a similar Zoological and Botanical Garden, for the use of
that part of the metropolis. The thing, like similar things on the Con-

s 4

^56 Natural History in London.

tinent, will then be done by the public, to supply the wants of the public.
In the mean time, the founders of the Zoological Society are entitled to
the honour of having commenced this highly rational and humanising
species of gratification in England.

" The number of species and varieties now living of animals belonging to
the Society is 194; of which 69 are quadrupeds, and 125 are birds. The
whole amounting to 627 individuals, of which 152 are qiiadrupeds, and 475
are birds. They are at present generally in good health, order, and con-
dition. Measures have been taken to add to them, especially by the ac-
quisition of some of the larger and stronger quadrupeds ; and these will be
brought forward and exhibited as speedily as dens and enclosures can be
prepared for them.

" The Council very reluctantly postponed to a late period the attempt to
render the Society more directly and practically useful by experiments in
breeding, and in the domestication of foreign animals. The establishment
in the Regent's Park is obviously unfit for this purpose. Its limited space
and great publicity operate strongly against the success of such attempts ;
and the results have only been satisfactory with some species of aquatic
fowls which were last year bred upon the lake. For these objects the
Council have long seen the necessity of forming an establishment at such a
distance from London as should insure sufficient quiet, and at the same time
should be easily accessible: and they have with this view concluded a
negotiation with Mr. Pallmer and the corporation of Kingston for the oc-
cupation of a farm, consisting of a house with some convenient buildings,
and about thirty-three acres of land, nine miles from Hyde Park Corner, in
a beautiful situation under the wall of Richmond Park, with a very light
soil peculiarly favourable for rearing birds, full of very abundant springs,^
and with some excellent ponds.

"The application of the farm to the purposes and objects of the Society
will be under the following heads : — First, in affording a convenient relief
and assistance to the menagery in the park, by removing from it such
quadrupeds and birds as may require a quiet place to bring forth and rear
their young: also in receiving the duplicates of the collection which it may
be expedient to keep in hand to replace those which are exhibited in the
park, when necessary; and likewise to maintain such as want a more ex-
tended range than the garden at present admits of, or which it is necessary
to allow to remain at liberty. Second, the rearing various domesticated
quadrupeds and birds, both of ornamental as well as useful varieties, with a
view of having their kinds true and free from mixture ; or in effecting im-
provements in the quality or properties of those which are used for the
table; and likewise in domesticating subjects from our own or foreign
countries, which have not hitherto been inmates of our poultry or farm
yards. Third, the conducting experiments in all matters relating to
breeding and points of animal physiology connected therewith, the range of
which is very various and extensive. Many of these will require much
time to be completed ; some may be brought to a conclusion within a year
or two. It is remarkable that there have never been published any correctly
recorded facts, on which the opinions at present entertained by physiologists
on many of such matters can be supported. It is to be hoped that the
Zoological Society may be the instrument of settling many questions of this
description in a satisfactory manner.

" In the objects of attention at the farm, the breeding and trying ex-
periments with fish are of course included."

The Linnean Society. — The library of Linnaeus and of the late President
(mentioned p. S3.) has been brought from Norwich, and is now systematically
arranged in the Society's house in Soho Square. The library of the Linnean
Society may now be considered one of the first botanical libraries in the
world; and its central situation in London, and the facilities afforded to the

Vfatural History in London, 257

members and their friends in referring to the works it contains, will prove
of real value to scientific and literary men, and must greatly increase the
desire of belonging to this Society.

May 25. At the anniversary dinner some very interesting speeches
were delivered, especially by Mr. Duncan of St. John's College, Oxford, on
the influence of the study of botany and natural history in general on human
character and happiness. No study was so likely to guard young minds
from falling into that train of thinking which led to superstition and fanati-
cism, and by dividing those who ought to be as one brotherhood into sects
and parties, produced enmity instead of love and friendship. We had the
evidence of the present state of France and Germany, as contrasted with
the present state of Spain*, to prove that science could break down a reli-
gious despotism,; and of all sciences the fittest for this purpose, because the
fittest for universal application, is the study of the objects of nature. Pro-
fessor Henslow, we understand, took a similar view of the same subject at
the commemoration dinner of Ray ; and it is highly gratifying to us to add
that we have heard the same sentiments from various clergymen. It seems
generally agreed on, in all countries, that the surest way of neutralising the
exclusive spirit, generated by artificial religion or sectarian principles, is
to study the religion of nature. Since these lines were in type, Mr. Dun-
can favoured us with the substance of what he delivered, and his ex-
cellent letter shall appear in next Number.

June 2. Read. — A very interesting paper, by Mr. Yarrel, on the throats
of birds.

Geological Society. Feb. 6. — A paper was read, " On the discovery of
a new species of Pterodactyle ; and also of the Faeces of the Ichthyosaurus ;
and of a black substance resembling Sepia, or Indian Ink, in the Lias at
Lyme Regis;" by the Rev. W. Buckland, D.D. F.R.S. Professor of Mine-
ralogy and Geology in the University of Oxford.

1 . This specimen of Pterodactyle was discovered, in December last, by
Miss Mary Anning, and was found to belong to a new species of that
extinct genus, hitherto recognised only in the lithographic Jura limestone
of Sollenhofen, — which the author considers as nearly coeval with the
English chalk.

The head of this new species is wanting, but the rest of the skeleton,
though dislocated, is nearly entire ; and the length of the claws so much
exceeds that of the claws of the Pterodactylus longirostris and brevirostris,
of which the only two known specimens are minutely described by Cuvier,
as to show that it belongs to another species, for which the name of
Pterodactylus macronyx is proposed. A drawing of this fossil by Mr.
Clift accompanies the paper. The author had for some time past con-
jectured, that certain small bones found in the lias at Lyme Regis, and
referred to birds, belong rather to the genus Pterodactyle. This con-
jecture is now verified. It was also suggested to him, in 1825, by Mr.
J. S. Miller of Bristol, that the bones in the Stonesfield^slate, which have

* It is a remarkable fact, that there are more universities, colleges, and
schools in Spain, in proportion to the population than in any country in
Europe. There is a school in every parish, and in every hamlet, as in
Germany, Scotland, and Sweden, and yet all the lower class are in com-
plete ignorance, and no farther advanced in the useful arts than they were
five centuries ago. To what can this be owing ? To the total exclusion
of useful science from the schools, and to a law by which no person is al-
lowed to study at a college, who is not destined for the church, the law, or
medicine. All that is gained at school in Spain is reading, writing, a little
arithmetic, and the love of church and king. (See the Manual ^ Science
and Literature, vol, i.) — Cond.

^BB Natural History in London.

been usually considered as derived from birds, ought to be attributed to
this extraordinary family of flying reptiles : Dr. Buckland is now in-
clined to adopt this opinion, and is disposed to think still further, that the
coleopterous insects, whose elytra occur in the Stonesfield slate, may have
formed the food of those insectivorous Pterodactyles. He conceives also,
that many of the bones from Tilgate Forest, hitherto referred to birds,
may belong to this extinct family of anomalous reptiles : and, from its
presence in these various locaUties, he infers that the genus Pterodactyle
was in existence throughout the entire period of the deposition of the
great Jura-limestone formation, from the lias to the chalk; expressing
doubts as to the occurrence of any remains of birds before the commence-
ment of the tertiary strata.

2. Fossil Fceces of the Ichthyosaurus. The author concludes, from an
extensive series of specimens, that the fossils, locally called bezoar stones,
that abound at Lyme, in the same beds of lias with the bones of Ichthyo-
saurus, are the faeces of that animal. In variety of size and form they
resemble elongated pebbles or kidney potatoes, varying generally from 2
to 4 in. in length, and from 1 to 2 in. in diameter; some few being larger,
others much smaller : — their colour is dark grey ; their substance, like
indurated clay, of a compact earthy texture, and their chemical analysis
approaches to that of album graecum. Undigested bones and scales of
fishes occur abundantly in these faecal masses. The scales are referable
to the Dapedium politum, and other fish that occur in the lias ; the bones
are those of fish and also of small Ichthyosauri. The interior of these
bezoars is arranged in spiral folds ; their exterior also bears impressions
received from the convolutions of the intestines of the living animals.
In many of the entire skeletons of young Ichthyosauri, the bezoars are
seen within the ribs and near the pelvis: these must probably have been
included within the animal's body at the moment of his death. The
author found, three years ago, a similar ball of faecal matter, in the collec-
tion, of Mr. Mantell, from the strata of Tilgate Forest, which abound in
bones of Ichthyosauri and other large reptiles; and he conjectures that
these bezoars exist wherever the remains of Plesiosauri are abundant.

o. Fossil Sepia. An indurated, black, animal substance, like that in the
ink-bag of the cuttle-fish, occurs in the lias at Lyme Regis ; and a drawing
made with this fossil pigment, three years ago, was pronounced by an
eminent artist to have been tinted with sepia. It is nearly of the colour
and consistence of jet, and very fragile, with a bright splintery fracture;
its powder is brown, like that of the painter's sepia. It occurs in single
masses, nearly of the shape and size of a small gall-bladder, broadest at
the base and gradually contracted towards the neck; these are always
surrounded by a thin nacreous case, brilliant as the most vivid lumachella.
The nacre seems to have formed the lining of a fibrous, thin, shelly sub-
stance, which, together with this nacreous lining, was prolonged into a
hpllow cone, like that of a belemnite, beyond the neck of the ink-bag.
Close to the neck of the ink-bag there is a series of circular transverse
plates and narrow chambers, resembling the chambered alveolus within the
cone of a belemnite ; but beyond the apex of this alveolus, no spathose
body has been found.

The author infers that the animal from which these fossil ink-bags are
derived, was some unknown cephalopode, nearly allied in its internal
structure to the inhabitant of the belemnite, the circular form of the
septa showing that they cannot be referred to the molluscous inhabitant of
any nautilus or cornu-ammonis.

Feb. 6th. —A paper was read " On the Oolitic District of Bath," by
William Lonsdale, Esq., of Bath-Easton.

The tract described in this paper comprehends a space included between
the lines passing, on the north, from Wycke, north west of Bath, through

I

NaUiral Historij in London, 259

Marshfield, Kingston St. Michael, and Lynham, to the Chalk-downs north
of Calne and Cherhill ; and on the south and south-east, from the south
of Radstock, through Frome and Westbury, to Devizes. The author refers
to the works of Mr. Smith, and of Messrs. Conybeare, De la Beche, and
Phillips, as the principal published authorities on the district ; and states
his obligations for much valuable information to the Rev. B. Richardson of
Farleigh, near Bath.

Feb. 20. At the Annual General Meeting the Report of the Council on
the finances, presents, and other matters, was read, and an address delivered
by the President. The government have granted this Society apart-
ments in Somerset House, which have been fitted up under the direction
of Mr. Decimus Burton, well known for his skill and taste as an archi-
tect, and who has declined receiving any pecuniary compensation. Mr.
William Phillips, one of the authors of Geological Outlines of England and
Wales, and Dr. Wollaston, author of an Elementary Introduction to Mine-
ralogy and of various other works, and who has left lOOO/. to the Society,
have died during the past year; and a considerable part of the speech is
devoted to an account of their geological labours and merits, and of the
regret of the Society at their loss.

In adverting to the progress which geological research has made during
the past year in this country, the President follows the descending order of
the strata in our series ; and refers to the Tabular View of our Stratification,
of which Mr. De la Beche has recently published a second edition, for one
of the most convenient and succinct views of the present state of our know-
ledge respecting them.

" A complete account of the deposits which appear on the coast of Suf-
folk, and other parts of the eastern shore of England, especially of that
which has been denominated Crag, is still a desideratum of importance in
the history of our strata. The publications of Mr. Robberds and Mr. R. C.
Taylor have given some information of considerable value upon this tract :
but a general account of it, combining the local phenomena with those of
analogous deposits in other quarters, is still to be wished for; and from the
connection of the facts which our eastern shores exhibit, with some of the
great questions touching the true theory of the diluvial accumulations, an
acquaintance with them is almost necessary to the removal of some of the
numerous difficulties which still attend that subject.

" Mr. Webster has announced a new work upon the Isle of Wight : in
which, under the simple form of a guide to that most interesting island, he
proposes to illustrate fully its topography and geology; particularly the
relations of the strata immediately above the chalk.

" The true order of the beds between the chalk and the oolitic series,
which has been the subject of much recent enquiry and discussion, appears
now to be generally recognised ; and considerable light has been thrown
upon that remarkable group, united principally by zoological relations (for,
raineralogically, its members are sufficiently distinct), which occurs between
the lowest of the beds denominated green sand, and the oolite of Portland.
The succession, though the beds are not continuous, has been shown to
be uniform throughout England, from Norfolk southwards, and to be the
same, in fact, with that long since enounced, though with much variation
of nomenclature, by Mr. William Smith, in his Geological Maps of the
English Counties.

" A full and elaborate Catalogue of the Fossils of Sussex has been con-
tributed by Mr. Mantell ; whose labours as a geologist, amidst the duties
of an arduous profession, have long been so useful to the public, and so cre-
ditable to himself. This valuable paper will be published in the next por-
tion of our Transactions. Mr. Martin of Pulborough in Sussex, another
member of the same profession, has published a detached Memoir, the
developcmcnt of a Paper read here during the last session ; which, besides

260 Natural History in London,

an account of the stratification in his own neighbourhood, contains much
ingenious specuhition on the phenomena which seem to have attended the
elevation of the tract beneath the chalk, within the denudation of Sussex,
Hampshire, Surrey, and Kent."

The researches of Mr. Lonsdale on that important tract between Calne
and Bath ; the work upon the coast of Yorkshire, by Mr. Phillips of the
York Institution ; the various important memoirs by Professor Sedgwick,
and by Mr. Murchison ; a variety of foreign publications ; the labours of
Dr. Macculloch, Professor Henslow, Professor Jameson, John Taylor, F.R.S.,
and various other authors are next adverted to.

" The labours of the Geological Society of Cornwall are continued : and
a work, of which the first volume has been published by Mr. John Taylor,
one of the principal miners in this country, promises considerable additions
to a department of knowledge comparatively new to our scientific litera-
ture, but intimately connected with our pursuits. This work is entitled
Records of Mining ; and it proposes to embrace * reports and statements
upon particular mines, and the produce of metals, in various districts ; no-
tices on geological facts relating to mining ; discoveries of ores and mine-
rals, and descriptions of existing processes connected with the treatment of
ores, and the operations of smelting, or other modes of reduction ; with
investigations of the methods of working now usually employed in different
countries, and of projected improvements; and descriptions of machinery
or implements destined to the service of the mines.' The editor justly adds,
that many facts relating to these subjects continually present themselves to
observation, all record of which is lost, for want of a proper depository ;
and that not only is a quantity of valuable matter constantly occurring in
the reports and statements upon our British mines, but that much more
may be expected to reach us from those foreign countries in which Englislv
capital is now employed.

" In the foreign geology of Europe, we have the gratification of
knowing that the examination of France, with a view to a general map of
the strata, is steadily proceeding.

" The proofs of the identity of the prevailing rocks, in the more distant
parts of the world, are continually multiplied by the reception of authentic
specimens; for which we have been of late indebted to the Admiralty, and
to British officers in the Navy, and in the service of the East India Com-
pany : and the donors of every such contribution, — even of the smallest
specimen, the locality of which in a distant quarter is correctly ascertained,
— will have the satisfaction of feeling that they bring us nearer to the
ultimate solution of the interesting problems which are before us.

" The Memoir of Dr. Richardson, read at one of our Meetings, and pub-
lished in the Appendix to the account of Capt. Franklin's second journey,
contains a most valuable series of observations, made under great disadvan-
tages, during the advance and return of that memorable expedition to the
shores of the Polar Sea ; in the course of which a space of about 5000 miles
was for the first time surveyed and laid down, — the total distance travelled
over by the party in America being not less than 14000 miles. The great
similarity of the rocks, and of their structure and external features, to those
of Europe ; the uniformity in composition of vast tracts of the country ;
and the very large proportion of the surface occupied by water, espe-
cially within a broad calcareous band, that intervenes between the Rocky
Mountains and another primary tract which has nearly the same direction,
are some of the more obvious general results that may be collected from
the perusal of this important Memoir, a full abstract of which will be found
in our Proceedings, And the whole is rendered still more interesting to
us, by the liberality of the collectors, who have placed in the Museum of
the Society a complete series of the specimens described and referred to by
Dr. Richardson.

Natural History i?t London. 261

" From Africa we are still without any communication from any of the
settlements on its extensive coasts.

" f am happy to say there is every day new reason to hope for the ex-
tension of geological enquiry in India ; where the liberality of the Company
in carrying on the magnificent trigonometrical survey has already laid the
best foundation for such researches. A copy of the portion of the great map,
which has been already published, has been presented to us by the Directors ;
and there is every reason to suppose, that they are as much disposed to
favour geology, as they have shown themselves to be to advance the pro-
gress of astronomy and scientific topography. We owe, under this head,
considerable obligation to the exertions of our own distinguished member
Mr. Colebrooke, whose activity and varied information have enabled him
to contribute so much to several departments of literature and science in
connection with the East.

" The Asiatic Society, also, has recently taken up the extension of geolo-
gical enquiry with much interest and zeal ; and has opened an intercourse
with India upon this subject, though Sir Alexander Johnstone, the chair-
man of their committee of foreign correspondence, from which the best re-
sults may be expected. The attention of the Asiatic Society of Calcutta
has of late been particularly devoted to this department of natural science ;
and we have, in the different settlements, several friends and fellows of this
Society, who have shown their desire to promote our views.

" The Society has received from the Admiralty, in the course of the pre-
sent session, a small collection of specimens, from the site of the intended
settlement in the vicinity of Swan River, on the west coast of Australia ;
and Captain Stirling, before his departure from England, in the capacity of
its governor, was good enough to place in my hands some brief notes re-
lating to them, which I shall take an early opportunity of laying before the
Society. From the zeal expressed by that distinguished officer, we may re-
gard this contribution as an earnest of what may be expected hereafter
from the colony under his superintendence : and having already received
from the eastern shores of Australia enough to prove the resemblance of
the rocks to ours, and even to point out the relative position and structure
of the formations on some points of the coast, we may with reason expect
the solution of some of the great questions respecting that region, which
still are undetermined. It is remarkable, for example, that no traces have
yet been descried of any active volcano along the whole circuit of those
shores; although the latitudes nearer to the equator, and under nearly the
same meridians, are the scenes of some of the most tremendous volcanic
phenomena on record. The mode in which the waters condensed upon
the vast continent of Australia are disposed of, — whether by evaporation
from inland seas or lakes, or conducted to the ocean by rivers, whose exist-
ence has hitherto escaped detection, is another great question connected in
all probability with its geological structure. But there is no subject of
greater interest to us, at present, than the fossil organised remains of that
country ; a knowledge of which, especially the remains of animals, will be
an addition of capital importance to our subject, and probably not less valu-
able to the zoologist. The diluvium, therefore, respecting which we have
at present no information whatever, is deserving of the greatest attention ;
and since the existing races of Australian animals are so widely different
from those of every other portion of the earth, the identity, on the one
hand, of these animals with those occurring in a fossil state, would lead to
some of the most important inferences ; while, on the other, the agreement
of the fossil remains of Australia with the existing races of other regions,
now disjoined from that country, would give new support to some of the
most popular speculations of our day. With a view to these enquiries,
scarcely any thing that can be collected by oiu* fellow-labourers in that
quarter, will be without interest to their friends in Europe.

262 Natural History in London.

" Mr. R. C. Taylor, one of our Fellows, has prepared a valuable list of
the fossils hitherto discovered in the British strata [published in a former
Number of this Magazine, p. 26.], drawn principally from the works and
authority of Mr. Sowerby, to whose indefatigable exertions, in extending
our acquaintance with the fossils of England, geology is under most essential
obligation.

" The Council has mentioned to you the late addition to the Museum,
of a splendid series of casts of foss,il remains, presented by the Baron Cuvier,
and doubly valuable from their connection with his own publications. These,
in fact, are but continued proofs of the interest which that illustrious natu-
ralist has always taken in the progress of this Society ; and few of us have
ever visited the French capital, without partaking, in person, of his hospi-
tality, and deriving advantage from his aid in our enquiries. When the
state of knowledge which many of us can remember, is contrasted with
what we know at present respecting fossil organised remains, — now that
we have acquired the power of determining from a single bone, or even a
fragment, almost the entire structure and relations of animals, whose races
are no longer in existence ; and when we recollect that we owe to the
same person the most complete history of fossil remains that has ever yet
appeared, in richness of matter, in arrangement, and in style j and that all
this is but a part of what one man has already performed ; we cannot be
surprised at the eminence which he occupies in public opinion. The name
of Cuvier is in fact identified with our subject ; for, unquestionabl}^ to no
one now living is geology so much indebted as to him ; and he enjoys the
enviable good fortune, not only of receiving from every side the tribute of
admiration and gratitude arising from his works, but of witnessing himself
the influence which they have shed, and are every day producing, on all
the kindred departments of science, and in almost every quarter of the
globe.

" On the subject of fossil plants, we have heard, during the last session,
a valuable paper ; and there are, at present, before the Society, several new
specimens, which it is intended to figure and describe without delay. The
number of such specimens, in detached private collections throughout this
country, we know to be so great, that when the wish of the Council to
assist in describing and publishing them is generally known, we shall proba-
bly never want such a supply, as will enable us to connect with every future
part of our Transactions some contribution to fossil botany. Great benefit
will thus be produced, by circulating information at present locked up and
unavailing ; and the specimens lent to the Society for illustration will be
rendered doubly valuable to the proprietors themselves.

" The botanical paper, in the last part of our Transactions, is that of
'Dr. Buckland on the C/ycadeoideae ; a new family of fossil plants, discovered
in the Isle of Portland, and obtained most probably from a stratum imme-
diately above the oolitic beds, which contains also lignite with the silicified
trunks of dicotyledonous trees.

" On the suggestion of Mr. Brown, these fossils have been considered as
i)elonging to a family very nearly related to, but perhaps sufficiently distinct
from, the recent Cycadeae : and the observations of this distinguished bo-
tanist, with respect to the stem or caudex of this family, are illustrated by
sections represented in the plates which accompany Dr. Buckland's paper.

" The family of Cycadeae consists at present of two genera, Zamia and
Cycas. In certain Zamiae, Mr. Brown states, there is one narrow vascular
circle, divisible into radiating plates, and situated in the midst of the cellu-
lar substance of which the stem is in a great part composed. In C'jcas re-
voluta, a second circle is added externally, at a small distance from the first ;
and in Cycas circinalis (according to the only section of this plant yet pub-
lished) the circles are more numerous, — the outermost being still consider-
ably removed from the circumference.

l^atural History in London. 26^

" The fossil stems, which are the immediate subject of Dr. Buckland*s
paper, like the recent Cycadeae, are not covered with true bark, but have a
thick case, made up of the basis of decayed leaves, which externally form
rhomboidal compartments, similar to those of the recent plants. The in-
ternal structure in the fossils, so far as hitherto examined, resembles that
of the Cycadeae, except in the more external position and greater breadth
of the circle or circles visible in the section of the stem, a character where-
by, Mr. Brown is of opinion, this fossil family approaches more nearly than
the Cycadeae, to the ordinary structure of dicotyledonous woods ; and con-
sequently may be considered as supplying, from the fossil world, a link
which helps, in some degree, to connect the still distant structure of the
cycadeae with that of the nearest existing family, the Coniferae.^

" M. Adolphe Brongniart's publications on the history of fossil vege-
tables, though produced in another country, are too important to our en-
quiries not to be mentioned here. Some fear, perhaps, may be entertained,
that his data are not yet sufficiently extensive to form an adequate base for
his deductions ; but there can be no question as to many of his inferences,
nor respecting the impulse which the subject will receive from such an
accumulation of facts as he has brought together. His views contrasting
the climate of the globe at former periods and at the present time, and
his division of the epochs of geological deposition, as deduced from the
study of fossil plants, in comparison with those which mere geological en-
quiry points out, are most ingenious. Even if regarded as no more than
the conjectures of so acute and indefatigable an enquirer, these speculations
would be well deserving of attention ; and, altogether, his works on fossil
plants must be considered as constituting one of the most valuable contri-
butions to this department of geology that has ever appeared."

We are obliged to pass over various subjects of the greatest interest, in
order to find room for an extract from the President's very interesting con-
clusion : —

" Such, Gentlemen, is a brief statement of the product of our labours
during the past year, and of some of the objects which you may perhaps
regard as still deserving your attention. If, on comparing our subject with
some other departments of physical research, we lament that we cannot
avail ourselves of such aid as mathematical science furnishes to the astro-
nomer; if the phenomena we are occupied in observing be inferior in sub-
limity to those presented by the heavenly bodies, and the laws we investi-
gate less striqt than those which govern their motions, — still do our
enquiries claim a very high place as an exercise of intellectual power. The
geologist, like the astronomer, is called upon to trace the effects of forces,
not only vast beyond conception in themselves, but acquiring almost infinite
augmentation of effect, from the numberless ages during which they have
been unremittingly exerted: and the problem, to explain the condition of
the earth's surface at any moment of this career, is complicated as much,
perhaps, as any other in physics, from the nature of the agents, of which
change and irregularity appear to be essential characteristics. The degrad-
ation of the surface by the atmosphere, the erosion of streams and torrents,
the encroachments of the sea, the growth and decay of the organised beings
that successively inhabit the globe, with all the chemical and mechanical
changes going on around us, though constantly in operation, are for ever
varying in their energies and effects. The great phenomena of volcanic
agency, which seems as it were to constitute one of the vital powers of the
earth, are from their very nature transitory and erratic. Viewed, never-
theless, in relation to the vast periods of time during which phenomena of
the same kind have been continually recurring, these very accidents and
apparent irregularities acquire a sort of uniformity. They intimate the re-
petition of results in future, resembling those which seem already to have
occurred repeatedly in the history of the globe ; and that part of the Hut-

264 Natural History in London.

tonian theory, where the progress of geological revokition has been com-
pared to the cycles, in the movements of the heavenly bodies, — in which,
after a long series of periodical deviations, the same order is certain to re-
cur, — seems to acquire new probability from every step of our progress,
and to be really no less just, in a philosophic view, than it is captivating to
the imagination."

The part of the Huttonian theory alluded to is as follows : —

" The geological system of Dr. Hutton resembles, in many respects, that
which appears to preside over the heavenly motions. In both, we perceive
continual vicissitude and change j but confined within certain limits, and
never departing far from a certain mean condition, which is such, that in the
lapse of time the deviations from it on the one side must become just equal
to the deviations from it on the other. In both, a provision is made for
duration of unlimited extent ; and the lapse of time has no effect to wear
out or destroy a machine constructed with so much wisdom." {Flay f air'' s
Illustrations, § 387. note xx.)

Ornithology of the Metropolis. — Sir, How little, at the present time, is
known of the natural history of many birds, of the cuckoo, for example ;
nay, how little of our own perennial warbler, the redbreast! It does not
appear to be yet satisfactorily determined whether the male and female
both sing, or whether the male only of this species sings. Till I brought
the subject before the public, I am not aware that any one had controverted
the opinion long since made public by the Hon. Daines Barrington, that
female birds do not sing; whereas, we now find that female birds do many
of them sing, and that some, perhaps, even sing while sitting upon their
eggs. The advantage, therefore, of a periodical work like the Magazine of
Natural History, is now manifest j for, if any misstatements be made, the
means of their being publicly corrected is at hand.

I have, in my Ornithologia, mentioned some of the birds to be found at
large in London, a singular situation, it must be admitted, for them ; but in
addition to those mentioned in my work, I wish now to give the following
particulars concerning the ornithology of the metropolis.

I heard the thrush (Turdus musicus) singing delightfully on a tree, in
Berkeley Square, March 22. 1828. I am quite sure of this fact, as I took
care to see the bird.

Jackdaws (Corvus ilibn^dula) frequent some of the church towers of
London, particularly St. Michael's, Cornhill ; and it is said (for of the fact
I am not myself cognisant) that the hawk (Falco T'innunculus) builds in
some of the more elevated parts of St. Paul's Cathedral.

Mr. Britton informs me that, in the winter, tomtits (Parus caeruleus)
frequent his garden in Burton Street, Burton Crescent, to the number of
four and six at a time. The redbreast (Sylvia Rub^cula) is also frequently
seen in the same garden ; the chaffinch (i^ringilla cce'lebs) has also been
observed there; and, last summer, the whitethroat (ilfotacilla Sylvia)
poured its pleasing song in the same place. It is scarcely necessary to add,
that pheasants and partridges are seen in the Regent's Park ; because these
were, I presume, brought there by those having command in that region,
and which, therefore, can scarcely be considered as the natural and volun-
tary domicile of those birds.

Another fact, not indeed relative to the birds of London, but to the
redwing (Turdus iliacus) may, in concluding these notices, be mentioned;
namely, that a friend of mine at Trowbridge, Wilts, on whose accuracy of
observation I can rely, assures me this bird occasionally sings in this country
before its departure in the spring. — James Jennings. London, April 7.
1829.

Arrival of the Swallow. — I saw yesterday (Sunday), for the first time
this year, two swallows flying from the east towards the west, about the
height of the houses, over the water in the enclosed part of the Regent's

Natural History in the Englis?i Comities,

261

Park : they seemed travelling, as I looked for some time, and did not see
them return as they usually do when in search of their food. [We oh-
served a flight of swallows the same day at Bayswater, as did Mr. Sweet at
Fulham.]

The Nightingale I have not yet heard, this season, in the Park ; though
I heard it last year before the 20th of April. I am. Sir. &c. — R. G.
Sussex Place J Regent's Park, April 27, 1829.

Art. III. Natural History in the English Counties*

Indigenous Floras of London and Plymouth compared. — Sir, The fol-
lowing tables, illustrating the difference of climate between this neighbour-
hood and that of London, were furnished, at my request, by my friend,
Mr. Banks of Devonport, who unites to a profound acquaintance with our
indigenous botany the greatest accuracy of observation. Hence, the greatest
dependence may be placed upon the materials which he has furnished, and
which I place at your disposal, as a hint which will, I hope, be followed up,
in other places, by equally attentive observers. In this the means will be
furnished of comparing the climate of different parts of our island even
more accurately than by the most correct registers of meteorological ob-
servations. I am. Sir, &c. — William Hamilton. 1 5. Oxford Place, Ply-
mouth, March 1. 1829.

A List of early-flowering Plants growing in the Vicinity of Plymouth, with their usual Period of
beginning to flower there, compared with the Periods assigned for their flowering in the
Vicinity of London in the last edition of the Hortus Kewensis : from the Observations of
Mr. Gborgb Banks, Lecturer on Botany, &c., Devonport.

Names.

Dkphne Laur^ola
Gal&nthus nivalis -
/Tell^borus viridis
Fragaria v^sca
Z/Smium purpfireum
Stellaria mfedia
Ribes Grossulkria
A'arcissus Pseudo-^arcissus
Tussilago ii'arfara
Draba v^rna
-Buxus sempery'irens
Fickria v^rna
^'rabis ThsiMana
Cochlearia officinalis
Primula vulgaris
0'*xalis Acetos^Ua
riola hirta

can^na

palustris
Potentilla fragarioides
Ranunculus AederJiceus
Prtinus spinbsa
^nembne nemorbsa

insititia

C^rasus . . -

Primula elMior

vferis - - -

t/Mex europse'us
f raxinus exc«51sior
Barbar^a pras'cox

vulgaris
Pulmonkria ofBcinMis
Trifblium subterrkneum
Sherard«a arv^nsis
Fedia olitbria
Stellkria J?ol6stea
Facclnium Myrtillus

Vicinity of Plymouth.

Vicinity of London.

Flower.

Fruit.

Flower.

January

.

January

March

January

February

February

March

January

February

March

April
May

January

.

^P"^

January

.

May

June

January

_

May

June"

February

.

March

April

February

.

March

April

February

_

March

April

February

February

March

April

February

.

April

February

.

April

February

.

April

^^y

February

February

April

¥.^y

February

.

April

JJ^y

Feb. March

_

April

May

February

-

April

May

February

March

April

June

February

May

June

February

_

May

June

February

May

August

^■Ji-'^'-'

-

March
April

April

March

.

April

May

March

.

April

May

March

April

April

May

March

.

April

May

March

.

April

^^y

March

_

April

May

March

.

April

October

March

.

May

August

March

.

May

March

_

May

' ,

March

_

Summer

March

April

.

April

June

April

-

April

June

Vol. II. — No. 8.

9B6

Natural History m the English Counties.

A List of Plants flowering late in the Season in the Vicinity of Plymouth, compared with the
Periods assigned for their flowering near London in the last edition of the Hortus Kfwensis :
from the Observations of Mr. George Banks, Lecturer on Botany, &c., Devonport.

Names.

Vicinity of Plymouth.

Vicinity of London.

Flower.

Flower.

Verdnica 5erpyllif61ia
Plantligo mhjor
Gerknium h^cidum
iiesfeda Lut^ola
Papaver Rhoe'as
Cor6nopus Ru^llii
Agrimbnia Eupatbria
Verdnica agr^stis
Lonicfcra Pericl^menum -
■Stitice Armaria
Fiola tricolor
Trifblium ripens
Terbdna officinalis
C6rnus sanguinea
Conv61vulus arv^nsis
Stachys arv^nsis
l-'rfsimum cheiranthOldes
AnagkWis arvdnsis
Euphrasia officinalis
Verdnica Aedersef blia
Salvia rerbenkcea
Gerknium Roberti^nww -
Pol:fgonum, species omnes
JBrica cindrea
Spergula arvdnsis
Chenopbdium murkle
TTilaspi Btirsa pastbris
Fragkria v^sca
Zkmium purpiireum
Z^chnis diolca

August

September

September

September

September

September

October

October

October

October

October

October

October

October

October

October

October

October

October

November

November

November, December

November

November

November

November

December

December

December

December

May July
May July
May August
June July
June July
June August
June July
May June
May July
May July
May September
May September
June September
June July
June September
July August
July August
July September
July September
April June
April June
April October
April October
June September
July September
August September
March September
April May
May June
May September

Middlesex.

Plants collected by the Rev, S. Palmer of Chigwell, Essex. The rather
uncommon marked with a star (*). — Parietkria officinalis, -Antirrhinum
Cymbalaria, walls, Highgate. ilfelampyrura prat^nse, copses, Highgate.
Scutellaria galericulata and *minor, Turnham Green, marshes. — S.P. Sept.
1828.

SUEREY.

Plants collected by the Rev. S. Palmer of Chigwelly Essex. The rather
uncommon marked with a star (*), the more rare with a cross (f). —
t Impatiens Nolitangere J, River Wey, near Guildford, flowers in August.
* Ferbascum iychnitis, * pulverul^ntum, * nigrum, and * virgatum, road-
sides, between Guildford and Shalford, and on Shalford Common. * Ga-
Mnthus nivalis. Stoke Park, Stoke, near Guildford, t Ornithogalura
pyrenaicum. Send, near Ripley, flowers in April and May. f ^llsma
Damasonium, flooded hollows on Shalford Common. * Chrysoplenium
oppositifolium, between Shalford and St. Martha's Chapel, in moist copses.
5axifraga granulata, * Clinopodium vulgare, St. Catherine's Hill, near
Guildford. * iathrae'a squamaria, in a field between Chantry Downs and
Shalford Turnpike. Antirrhinum spurium, corn fields near the Telegraph,
Guildford, f /satis tinctoria. This rare plant (the woad of the ancient
Britons, from which they extracted a dye to stain their skins) grows on the
chalk rubbish at the pits between Guildford and Shalford. * Geranium co-
lumbinum, at Losely, near Guildford. * Convallaria maj^lis, copse near
Worplesdon. *5utomus umbellatus, Thames, between Kew and Richmond.
.ErJgeron acre, Kingston. — S. P. Sept. 1828.

§ Our favourite balsams are of this family.

Natural History in the English Counties, 267

The Literary and Philosophical Institution of Chatham. — This institution
was formed, a very short time since, by the spirited and commendable
exertions of a ^e^^ gentlemen, who possessing varied knowledge themselves
felt a proportionate zeal for its diffusion. The establishment is yet in its
infancy; but if we may judge of its ultimate success by that which has at-
tended its commencement, we may calculate that it will speedily rise into
eminence, and excite an interest in the promotion of natural science, which
cannot but be attended with the most happy results, as the beautiful county
of Kent furnishes the first-rate advantages for the prosecution of this inter-
esting branch of knowledge. The Committee have shown a most laudable
zeal in the formation of a good library and in the establishment of a
museum, which, under the present liberal management, bid fair to become
extremely useful. A considerable collection of birds is already made. The
illustration of mineralogy has not been less sedulously attended to ; and the
very fine Herbarium of Staff-Surgeon Gulliver has been purchased by the
Society, This latter collection is entirely indigenous, and is prepared and
arranged in a very excellent manner, and I understand is particularly rich
in the minuter plants of the order Cryptogamia, especially the i^ungi and
Z/ichenes : its value is, moreover, materially enhanced by the immense labour
which has been bestowed by that gentleman in determining and noting the
synonyme of every author who has written on the subject. This is an im-
portant feature of the collection, for every one knows, who has studied this
iDranch of botany, how much difficulty and error have arisen in this enchant-
ing science, by the custom of merely quoting synonymes from books, without
an attentive examination of their accuracy, and hovv useful and pleasant it is
to have an opportunity of access to the practical labours of those who have
spent time and research in the record of their observations. I hope shortly
to furnish you with some information on some points touching natural
history. I am. Sir, &c. — Zeta.

A White laarh was lately shot in this neighbourhood. — P. H. Kingston
Rectory, near Canterbury, Nov. 22. 1828.

k'mpelis garrula and {Jpiipa E'pops. — Sir, That lovely-plumaged bird,
^'mpelis gaWula (the Waxen Chatterer), and Z7pupa -E'pops (the Upoe),
were frequently seen during the brumal months in various parts of Kent.
The former generally appears in small flocks of from five to eight in num-
ber, and is an occasional visitant even in the most northern parts of our
island ; this being probably the first instance on record of its being found
«o far south as the above-mentioned county. The latter is a timid, shy,
and solitary bird, but by no means uncommon in severe winters. Little,
however, as a correspondent has before remarked^ seems to be known of
the natural history of these, or indeed of any of the northern feathered
tribes which occasionally visit our coasts ; and an ornithologist who has
enthusiasm, leisure, and ability for the undertaking, might reap many a rich
harvest by a few years* residence on those inhospitable and barren shores,
which " seem," says the animated Bewick, whose recent death all men of
science must so deeply deplore, " as if they were set apart for the nations
of the feathered race as their peculiar heritage, a possession which they
have held coeval with creation." 1 am, Sir,&c. — Perceval Hunter. King-
^tone Rectory y near Canterbury, April, 18. 1829.

Suffolk.

Insects collected near Ipswich. — E'ndromis versicolor, Notodonta Frdo-
pha, *Silpha quadrimaculata. Larva; of Paphia, A'tropo*, Zeuzera tp'sculi,
Mgeria crabroniformis et apiformis. — K. Ipswich, Feb. 17. 1829.

Moss Agate. — A very beautiful moss agate has recently been found at
Aldborough, on the coast of Suffolk. Since it has been polished, its size is
5 in. long by 3 in., the greatest width, and about If in. thick; weight,

T 2

26d . Natural History in the Efiglish Counties.

14 bz. Many good specimens of agate have been found on this coast, but
this, of which the above is a brief description, is said to be by far the most
valuable —R. C. T,

Worcestershire.

FlocJcs of Crossbills near Worcester. — Sir, Observing in the Magazine
of Natural History an account, by a Worcester correspondent, of flocks of
crossbills visiting Cothoridge, near Worcester, each spring and autumn,
I am induced to send you the following account of the case from my own
observation. In the autumn of 1821, being at Cothoridge, I was aroused
early one morning by the information that a large flock of crossbills was
feeding in a grove of firs near the house. After watching them for some
time, with a gun I procured fifteen specimens, out of which only two were
in full feather, the breasts and backs of the others being nearly bare. After
this they used to visit the same spot pretty regularly twice a day. The
males varied very much in colour, some being of a deeper red, and others
inclining rather more to yellow, particularly on the tail coverts, and being
a little mottled with yellow upon the breast and back. The Weymouth
pine was their particular favourite ; indeed I scarcely ever observed them
on any other tree, except the sentinel, ^ho regularly took his station on
the top of a spruce fir, which happened to be the highest in the immediate
neighbourhood of their haunt. Their note or call very much resembled
the chirping of a chicken. They continued their visits (though the flock
certainly gradually diminished) during great part of the winter ; and one
pair remained long after the rest had left, being continually seen in February
and the beginning of March, 1822. Crossbills, though occasional visitants
there, had not been seen at Cothoridge for several years previous to the
autumn of 1821, nor have they ever been seen there since that time.

The lesser spotted woodpecker, which has been once or twice referred to
in the Magazine of Natural History as very rare, is by no means an un-
common bird at Cothoridge ; I have procured two or three specimens there
and seen several others. I have also observed it in Whaddon Chase, Bucks,
and in Bradgate Park, Leicestershire ; from the woods in which neighbour,
hood, I last year procured a specimen of the middle-spotted woodpecker-
I believe, a much scarcer bird, and also a pair of pied blackbirds (if they
may be so called). Of the largest spotted woodpecker I procured two
specimens at Cothoridge; I have also seen it in Warwickshire and in
Whaddon Chase. A few days ago I preserved a fine specimen of the
chatterer, which was killed in a garden near Knighton, Radnorshire. I
am, Sir, yours, &c. — J, W, Ludlow, March 15. 1829.

Warwickshire.

The present Season strikes me as remarkably backward; but yet we have
with us the redstart, blackcap, whitethroat, swallows, and martens. The
first (the redstart) appeared April 7., which is rather early. Papilio rapae
(or mfetra, as they now call it), i. e. the pale variety, appeared April 17.;
on which day, also, my eyes and ears were gratified by the first sight and
song of a swallow. This is to me a highly interesting period of the year :
some fresh and pleasing appearance of nature is every day presenting itself.
— W. T. B. April 25. 1829.

Varieties of Plants found in Warwickshire. — To the list of plants varying
with white flowers, by theRev.W.T.Bree (Vol. I. p. 392, 593.) may be added
the following, which have been observed by myself: — Veronica agrestis, in
a garden at Warwick. Fritillaria meleagris, in a meadow by the road-side,
opposite to Wroxall Abbey. Zamium purpureum, in a garden at Warwick.
Carduus acanthoides, on the top of the hill above the bank-croft, Hamp-
ton Lucy.

Natural History in the English Counties,

269

The following are additional stations of varieties included in Mr. Bree*s
list : — Campanula rotundifolia, with a white flower, on the road-side be-
tween Leek Wootton and Wootton Grange. Tiola odorata, with a white
flower, in several places near Warwick. Tiola odorata, with a flesh-
coloured flower, on an old wall facing LevenhuU Lane, Warwick. 5cllla
nutans, with white flowers, in a grove, on the road-side between Norton
Lindsey and Wolverton. Prunella vulgaris, with white flowers, in a lane
leading from the turnpike-road at Guy's Cliff to the Woodloes. Polygala
vulgaris, with white flowers, on the side of the road from Hampton on the
Hill towards Norton Lindsey, a short distance beyond the cross. Polygala
vulgaris, with flesh-coloured flowers, on a high bank 2i miles from War-
wick, on the Birmingham road, &c. Achillea ilfiilefolium, with purplish
red flowers, near Warwick.

I have also observed a few varieties of plants, depending on other cir-
cumstances than colour. Cynosurus cristatus, with a viviparous spike, by
the side of the canal at Leamington Priors. Scabiosa arvensis, with all the
leaves undivided, near Warwick. iVarcissus Pseudo-iN^arcissus, with full
flowers, in a field near Wedgnock Park, towards Warwick. /Saxtfraga tri-
dactylites with a branched stem, and opposite lanceolate stem leaves, on
a tiled building, Warwick. Zythrum Salicaria, with ternate leaves and
hexagonal stem, at Emscote Bridge. J?anunculus bulbosus, with full
flowers, near Warwick. Cardamine hirsuta, with a zigzag stem, in several
places near Warwick. Trifolium repens, with heads of leaves growing out
of the flowers, at Warwick. Crepis tectorum, with a flat stem, and crowded
panicle, with a broad, flat, terminal flower, near Warwick. Cnicus lanceo-
latus, with a broad flat stem and a crested flower, 10 in. in circumference
at Hampton on the Hill. A^colop^ndrium vulgare, with the frond lobed at
the apex, and also with a deeply bipartite frond and incurved segments, in
a ditch by the side of the footpath from Warwick to Hampton on the Hill,
— W.G. Perry. Warwick, Nov. 7. 1828,

Yorkshire.

Flora of Rotherham. — Sir, I have been highly gratified by the notices,
in your excellent Magazine, of new habitats of rare and beautiful plants ;
and, as I have the happiness to reside in a district, than which few are
more favourable for the study of indigenous botany, I venture to think thaf
a similar list of our local Flora may not be unacceptable to the lovers
of natural history. In this catalogue I shall only insert the rarer plants
which have been actually gathered or observed, in a circuit of eight miles,
by myself and my friend, the Rev.E. Wilson, jun., of Swanton ; otherwise,
I might much extend it, by the addition of the numerous and interesting
discoveries of our indefatigable and intelligent neighbour, Mr. Cooper,
curator of Lord Milton's splendid oollection at Wentworth.

JTippiiris vulgaris.
Circas^a lutetiSna.
Ferdnica ^nagallis.

montina.
Pinguicula vulgaris.
Valeriana dioica.

officinalis.
Fedia olitbria,

denta.ta.
i^ris Pseudacorus.
M^lica niitans.
Glyc^ria rigida.
M6ntia fontana.
Dipsacus fullbnuvi.
Scabibsa columbkria.
Sher&rdia arvensis.
Galium religibsum.

A/oUtigo.
Plantago mfedia.
C6rnus sanguinea.

Pariet^ria officinalis.
Alchemilla vulgaris.
Potamogfeton gramineum.

crlspum.
Mo^nchia erdcta.
Jfyosbtis pal6stris.

intermedia,
iithosp^rmum arv^nse.
Symphytum officinale.
JS^chium vulgkre.
Primula elation
Hottbn/a palustris.
iysimachia nembrum.
^nagallis cserilea.

arvensis white var.
Ctonv61vulus sfepium.
Campanula patula.

latifblia.

glomerkta.
Campanula hybrida.

T 3 -

rerb&scum 7Ti4psus.

pulverul^ntum.
^yosc^amus niger.
Erythrae^a Centadriura.
Lonicfera Caprifblium,
.Rhamnus cathdrticus.

Frdngula.
.Eu6nymus europas^us.
r'inca minor.

mkjor.
Gentiawa Amar^Ua.
Sanicula europae''a.
Caucalis rfaucdides.
^uplefirum rotundifblium.
Parnassia palustris.
Narcissus biflbrus.
Ornithugalum umbellJltum.
Coavallaria maj^lis.
Triglbchin palustre.
Colchicum autumnMe.

270

Natural History in the English Counties.

Chlbra perfolikta.
facclniura Myrtillus.

fltis IdjE^'a.

Oxyc6ccus.
Callhna vulgciris.
White var. of ditto
£;rlca Tetralix.

cinerea.
D&phne Laurdola.
Polygonum ami^iibiun).

Hydroplper.

Bisturta.
Pkris quadrifblia.
Adoxa Moschatellina.
P^rola minor.
Sclcr&nthus &nnuus.
Saponkria officinalis.
Arenaria trin^rvis.

*erpyllif&lia.
Cerastium aqu&ticuro.
iy thrum Salickria.
Re&^Aa. Ititea.
Prdnus Pkdus.
Tormentilla rc^ptans.
iVTiiphar liitea.
Cactus Helianthemum.
Aquilfegia vuIgJiris.
ylnembne Pulsatilla.

rhalictrum fl^vum.
^an6nculus Flimmula,

//ederaceus.
Ifelleborus viridis.
A'^peta CatJiria.
Ferbfena officinalis.
Zamium amplexicaule.
Galeopsis versicolor.
Marriibium vulgare.
Leon ".r us Card'iaca.
Clinopbdium vulg^ire.
Origanum vulg&re.
ThJ^mus J'cynos.

CaTamintha.
.Antirrhinum £latlne.

minus.
Camelina safiva.
Cardimine amsXra.
Turritis glabra.
Erbdium cicutkrium.
Geranium lilcidum.

columbinum.
/"umflria capreolata.
Genista anglica.

claviculata,
^nth^Mis vulneraria.
Ornithopus perpusillus.
Astragalus hypoglottis.

/fyp^rlcum montanum.
Carduus niitans.

MariknMS.
B\dens tripartita.
JBupat6rJM?w cann^binum.
JFrigeron &cris.
Tussilago Petasites.
Solidkgo VirgaCirea.
7'nula dysenterica.
Centaurea Scabibsa.
O'rchis bifblia.

pyramidalis,

mbrio (white var.)

ustulata.

viridis.

con6psea.
OV'irys wuscifera.

rtpifera.
Ne6ttia spiralis.
Lister« ovata.
£pipactis latifblia.
f/rtica 6rens.
Sagittaria sagiltifblia.
Potferium Sanguis6rba.
Hydr6charis morsus r&nje.
Ophiogl6ssum vulgktum.
.Aspldnium Rhia. mur&ria.

I am, Sir, &c.
Dec. 6. 1828.

Larret hangley. Brom^pton Academy^ near Rotherham,

NORTHUMBEIILAND.

Museum of Natural History in Newcastle upon Tyne. — When the Literary
and Philosophical Society of Newcastle upon Tyne was established, thirty-
six years ago, the first article in the original scheme of its founders had for
its object to investigate the two great natural products of this part of the
country — coal and lead. This may, therefore, be considered as having laid
the foundation of the museum of which we purpose giving here a brief de-
scription. For while many of the papers read at the monthly meetings of
the Society had immediate reference to these important subjects, a collection
of geological and mineralogical specimens was very early begun. Books, like-
wise, connected with natural history, were among the first purchases, when
a library was afterwards made an appendage to the Society^

The specimens in mineralogy, eonchology, &c., with some coins, and a
hortus siccus, which had formed the collection in the possession of the So-
ciety, had become, in the course of time, greatly injured and dilapidated for
want of suitable accommodations. Of these, two zoological specimens,
which had found their way to the museum, may here be mentioned : one
was the wombat, the other the duck-billed platypus of New South Wales,
sent home, in 1800, by Governor Hunter himself. It is worthy of remark,
likewise, that this was the first public notice given in Great Britain of these,
at that time, nondescript animals.

A project for erecting a new building, for the reception of the Society*s
rapidly increasing library and other property, had long been entertained ;
and in 1814, the preparatory measures were set on foot. In this project a
museum had all along been included. It was not, howevei', till the year
1 822 that the necessary arrangements were completed, and apartments in
the new building planned. By a fortunate coincidence, it happened about
this very time that the collection which originally belonged to Marmaduke
Tunstall, Esq., of Rycliffe, in the county of York, and which had subse-
quently come into the possession of George Allan, Esq., of Blacknell
Grange, in the county of Durham, was advertised for public sale. This
cabinet, even as a nucleus for a more extended collection, but still more,
for reasons to be presently noticed, it was most desirable to have deposited
in Newcastle. But though no time was to be lost in the acquisition, the
state of the Society's funds, which had been calculated to meet the ex-
penses of a building only, presented a formidable difficulty. This, however.

Natural History in the English Counties. 271

was soon got over, through the liberality of George Townshend Fox, Esq.,
of Westoe, near South Shields, who, with a degree of public spirit which
deserves to be recorded, agreed to advance the purchase-money (400/.),
allowing it also to remain in the Society's hands for two years, without in-
terest, and the principal sum to be repaid at the convenience of the Society.
The entire collection was accordingly transferred from the Grange to New-
castle, and carefully preserved in rooms prepared for it, during the three
years occupied in erecting the new edifice. The same interval was employed
in examining the condition of all the specimens, and in repairing the inju-
ries which damp and neglect, for twenty-two years, had unavoidably com-
mitted. The apartment in the new building allotted to the museum is
an octagon, 40 ft. long by 20 broad, and 16 ft. high, placed directly over
the vestibule. The entrance to it is by two narrow winding staircases
within the library hall, which also conduct to the gallery of the library.
This part of the general arrangement is rather awkward ; but that ijs not its
only nor its worst fault, for the situation has unluckily curtailed the dimen-
sions of the room, and led to an apprehension that, if the additions which
the museum is rapidly receiving continue progressive, as there is every rea-
son to suppose they will, the space will be found too small. The room is
lighted from above by large squares of ground glass, which throw a some-
what sombre air over it ; but, upon the whole, the appearance is handsome
enough.

The collection, as originally formed by Mr. Tunstall, though it embraced
all the other departments of nature, and some miscellaneous curiosities, was
essentially an ornithological one, in the proportion of about eight parts
British to three of foreign birds. In the present collection the birds are
mounted in separate glass cases, arranged round the room into the great
Linnean divisions ; but in consequence of the repairing and renewing of
specimens, the final placing of the cases is not yet completed, and cannot be
for some time to come. The imperfect mode of mounting known fifty
years ago, and the dishevelment which carelessness and repeated removals
from place to place have occasioned, render it necessary, whenever it can
be done, to replace the older by more recent specimens. This work is in
constant progress, and a considerable number of specimens, of birds espe-
cially, as well as of other objects, in the highest preservation, are daily finding
their way into the museum. One object which is steadily kept in view is,
that the collection of the birds, at any rate, of the British islands, should be
as complete as is to be met with any where throughout the empire. This
we approve of, for many reasons ; but chiefly because it would seem to be
highly appropriate that, in the native town of Bewick *, the votaries of this
delightful branch of natural history shall have it in their power to see spe-
cimens of all the British birds, in as perfect a state as they are to be seen
any where else. The members of the Society feel that what gives a peculiar
value to the birds in this museum is the interesting fact, that they include
many of the identical specimens from which their own illustrious townsman
drew his figures for the wood-cuts which embellish his unique and cele-
brated work. It was his master-hand that originally traced out for them a
celebrity only to perish when all that is perfect in design, and exquisitely

* This truly amiable man, and, beyond all comparison, greatest genius
Newcastle has ever produced, died on the 8th of November last, in the
76th year of his age. He continued to the last in the enjoyment of all his
faculties ; his single-heartedness and enthusiasm not a jot abated, and his
wonder-working pencil still engaged in tracing, with his wonted felicity
and fidelity, those objects which had all his life afforded him such delight,
and which have charmed, and must continue to charm, all those who have
any relish for the pure and simple beauties of nature.

T 4

272 Natural History in the Eftglish Counties,

faithful and minute in execution, in the art of wood-cutting, shall have
passed away and been forgotten. Tlie WyclifFe museum most probably
never would have emerged from that obscurity which attaches to all pro-
\'incial private cabinets, but for its singularly good fortune in furnishing pro-
totypes for the graver of this " wondrous artist," as Pennant, in one of his
letters, emphatically and most felicitously styles him. We have reason to
know that it was the circumstance of its being thus intimately associated
with the name and labours of this distinguished person, that mainly inter-
ested many of the members of the Society in the purchase of the museum.
The museum possesses several specimens of rare British birds. Of these we
may notice the Red-breasted Goose ( J'nas ruficoUis Linn.) in very fine pre-
servation ; the Spur-winged Goose (yi'nas gamb^nsis Linn. Gniel.\ by no
means in such high condition, having been rescued from the dunghill by the
exertions of H. Mewburn, Esq., St. Germains, Cornwall, who has contri-
buted several valuable articles to the collection ; the Cock of the Wood
(Tetrao urogallus Linn.), a specimen ascertained to have been shot in this
country, and now, consequently, almost unique, if not entirely so. Among
the more recent acquisitions it can boast of some water-birds, particularly
of the gull, tern, and diver tribes, into any description of which, or of the
foreign birds, we shall not enter at present.

But in what was the WyclifFe, and is now the Newcastle, museum, the
class of birds did not wholly supersede every other. A few specimens of the
mammalia are preserved in it, but none of first-rate importance, with the
exception of the two animals from New South Wales, already pointed out.
A somewhat similar account may be given of the amphibia, fishes, insects,
vegetables, and minerals. A few antiquities, seals, and miscellaneous curio-
sities are also to be found in it ; but these do not fall within our province.

The recent acquisitions in all the departments of zoology have been
very considerable ; and we may observe, in general, that the desiderata in
all, as far as concerns the British productions, are rapidly filling up. The
British shells are already nearly complete. Great additions have been made
to the list of insects, both indigenous and foreign, chiefly the latter. The
collection is already rich, and the most active means are using for rendering
it perfect in the two great natural products of the district, coal and lead ;
so that future geologists will not have to search about the land for the most
perfect series of exemplifications of these two important substances, but
will find them, where they should be found, in Newcastle itself.

Indeed, in Newcastle and its neighbourhood, natural history would appear
to have always been a favourite pursuit. It is daily becoming more so ; for
besides its own Bewick, that part of the country can boast of one of the
most accomplished ornithologists of the day, in the person of J. P. Selby,
of Twizell House, in the county of Northumberland, whose Illustrations of
British Ornithology are already recognised as an original standard work.
W. C. Trevelyan, Esq , of Wallington, in the same county, devotes to
science that fortune and leisure which too many of his compeers waste in
idleness and dissipation. He is favourably known by his contributions to
natural history, and by his ardour in its pursuit. He possesses a valuable
colleetion, rich in conchology and mineralogy. The Hon. H. T. Liddell, of
Eslington, M.P. for the county of Northumberland, has a small but select
cabinet of rare birds, all in the best state of preservation. There are a great
many other private collections, which, though of minor consequence, are
very creditable to the individual owners, and manifest a very commendable
zeal in the prosecution of an amusing and most instructive study.

From the foregoing sketch, short though it be, it will appear that, in the
north of England, a taste for the science of nature is cultivated with ar-
dour and success, and promises to be as rapidly and generally diffused there
fts it is now becoming in many other parts of the kingdom.

Natural History in the English Counties.

273

Lancashire.

Land andFresh-ivater Shells in the Neighbourhood of Preston. — Sir, As
you think a list of the species of land and fresh-water shells found in this"
neighbourhood may be interesting to some of your readers, I will endeavour
to furnish it. I have thought it better to make as complete a list of the
British land and fresh-water species as I am able *, distinguishing such as
occur in this vicinity by an asterisk.

Any of your readers following the same pursuits, and desirous of becom-
ing possessed of species found here, will, at the same time, be thus fur-
nished with a list of those wanting, any one of which would be acceptable
fo the Preston collectors, and several of which are, doubtless, common in
many places within the range of your useful Magazine.

Tracheli'poda.

'i^eritacea.
Neritina fluvi&tilis.

Peristdmata.
Paludlna vivipara.

* impilra.

* similis Zool. Journ.

* aciita Zool. Journ.

* Valvkta piscinalis.

cristkta Fleming.

LymncBana.
Lymnse^a stagnalis.

* fragilis Fleming.
detrita Fleming.

* palustris.

* auricularia.

* ovkta.
glutinbsa Drap.

* pdregra.

* Idtea Fleming.

* leuc6stoma.
*imnuta.

scaturiginum Zool. J.

* Phj^sa fontinalis.

41ba Zool. Journ.
fluviatilis (Bulla fluv.
Turt.)

* Aypnbrum,
subopaca.

Plan6rbis c(5rneus.

* marginktus Drap.
carinatus.

* spir6rbis.

* v6rtex.

* cont6rtus.
*hispidus.

* Planitidus (Nautilus lacfis-

tris Turt. &c.)

* complanktus Drap.

* imbricatus.

MOLLUSCA.

Colimacea.
Cycl6stoma ^legans.
truncatulum.

* Auricula minima.

* Succinea amphibia,

* Achatina acicula.
Btilimus aciitus.

montknus.
tuberculatus Zool. Jour.

* Aordekceus.

* lubricus.

lineatus Zool. Journ.

* Clausilia bidens Drap.

ventricdsa Drap.
plic&tula.
solida ? Drap,

* rugbsa.

p4rvula Zool. Journ.
Ptipa Av^na.

* fr&gilis.

* britdnnica (Turbo tr\-

dens of authors).

* umbilickta.

* wiuscbrum.
^uglica Wood's sup.

* antirertigo Drap.

* pygmse'^a Drap.

* vertigo Drap.

* ed^ntula Drap.
obt&sa Fleming.

Carocdlla lapiclda.

alb^Ua.

^legans,
Htlix pomktia,

* asp^rsa.

* arbustbrum.

* nemoralis.

* hortensis.
sylvatica ?

* f6sca Pennant.
piskna.
variabilis,
ericetbrum.

Carthusianella ?
obvoluta ? .

* cellkria.

* nitida.

* rufescens Donovan, &c.

* hispida.

* sericea Drap.

* rotundkta.
strikta.

* rr6chilus Fleming.

* crystallina Drap.
rupestris Drap.
scarburg^nsis^^aw.

* aculeata Drap.

* pulch^lla.
pygmae^a Drap.

Gastero'poda.
Ldmacidna.

* Vitrlna pelliicida.
Testacella haliotidea."

MangM Bowdich.
*Zimax cinfereus.

* agr^stis.

Calyptraciana.

* A'ncylus lacustris.

* fluvidtilis.

Conchi'fera Bxmusculo^sa.
Naida.

* A'nodon c^gneus.

* anatinus.
iTnio elongJltus.

rostratus
pictbrum,
batkvus.

Conchucea fluviatllia.
C^clas rivicola.

* c6rnea.

* lac6stris.

* obFiqua.

* fontinalis.

I remain, &c. — Joseph Kenyon. Preston^ Oct. 4. 1828.

Manchester Museum. — The following is a notice of some rare British
birds in the Museum of the Society for the Promotion of Natural History
established in Manchester : —

Honei/ Buzzard (Falco apivorus). — This rare species of falcon was killed
in Staffordshire. The sex was not ascertained, but is probably either a fe-
male, or a young male in immature plumage.

Rough-legged Buzzard (Falco jLagopus). — It is well known that '^some
species of the falcon tribe, particularly the buzzards and harriers, are rea-

k

* The following obscure species of Turton are not included, viz. Turba
bidens. Helix rhombea, H. variegata, H. disjuncta, H. terebra, Mytilus
stagnalis, M. dentatus, M. avonensis.

27^4 Natural History in the English Counties,

dily taken in baited steel-traps placed near their haunts, and in this man-
ner the bird here introduced to notice was captured in the North Riding of
Yorkshire.

Cinereous Shrike (Lanius excubitor). — J. Moore, Esq. of Sale Hall, Che-
shire, shot this bird in the neighbourhood in which he resides.

Golden Oriole (Oriolus Galbula). — This bird, which is a female, was shot
by Mr. James Hall, of Manchester, in the month of July, 1811, in Gorton
Fields, near Manchester.

Rose-coloured Pastor (Pastor roseus). — The sex of this specimen, which
was shot many years ago, near the Crescent, in Salford, Lancashire, was not
ascertained by dissection, and the plumage, perhaps, scarcely affords a suffi-
cient criterion for determining it with certainty.

' Bohemian Wax-wing (Bombycivora garrula). — This beautiful specimen,
which, on dissection, proved to be a female, was shot at HuUand Ward, in
Derbyshire, on the 15th of January, 1829. Its food was found to have
consisted chiefly of the fruit of the wild rose, which it had swallowed en-
tire. Bohemian Wax-wings have been unusually abundant this winter four
having been killed near Derby, and several in the vicinity of Middleton in
Lancashire, and Leeds in Yorkshire, in the month of January last. About
the same period, some of the northern and midland counties of England
were visited by large flocks of Siskins and Snow Buntings.

Pied Flycatcher (Muscicapa luctuosa). — The Pied Flycatcher has been
regarded by several distinguished ornithologists as indigenous to England,
while others have considered it as an occasional visitor merely : this latter
opinion, however, must be abandoned, as I know that it breeds annually in
the woods in the vicinity of Ullswater. The prevalence of the idea, that
this species does not migrate, may be attributed principally to the assertion
of Montagu, that it " rarely, if ever, makes its appearance in the southern
parts of the island" (see the Supplement to the Ornithological Dictionary) ;
but Messrs. Sheppard and Whitear, in their Catalogue of the Norfolk and
Suffolk Birds, published in the Transactions of the Linnean Society, vol. xv.
part 1 ., state that they have " seen a specimen of this bird, which was killed
near Cromer ; " that " two others were caught by Mr. Downes, in his gar-
den at Gunton, in Suffolk ; and a fourth was shot at Keswick, near Nor-
wich." Mr. Selby also, in his lllusti^ations of British Ornithology, informs
us that he has seen specimens from Dorsetshire. Montagu's observation,
therefore, loses much of its force ; indeed, from the general habits of the
bird, and the nature of its food, there can scarcely be a doubt that it with-
draws from this country in autumn. The specimen in the Manchester col-
lection is a male, and was procured on the 3d of June, 1828, in the woods
on the western bank of Windermere.

Mr. Sweet (Vol.L p. 100.) expresses a desire to possess a living male Pied
Flycatcher, and entertains the hope, that persons who have opportunities of
supplying this desideratum in his aviary, will lend their assistance towards
accomplishing his object. If I resided in a district where this species breeds,
I should be happy to use my best endeavours to meet his wishes in this
matter ; and, as it is, should I be able to obtain a bird or nest, it shall cer-
tainly be forwarded to him. The eggs and young of the Pied Flycatcher
might be procured, without difficulty, in the neighbourhood of Ullswater,
if Mr. Sweet has any acquaintance in that part of Cumberland, who has a
knowledge of the bird. Fresh-laid eggs, carefully packed in wool, as Mr.
Sweet suggests, might be sent to him, without the least inconvenience, from
almost any part of the kingdom, and if placed under the Spotted Flycatcher,
or indeed any of the sylvan warblers, I doubt not, would be incubated, and
there is every reason to believe that the young, when extricated from the
shell, would be nourished by the foster parents.

Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra). — There are several specimens of this species
in the museum, both males and females, adults and young. They were shot

Natural History in the English Counties. 275

at Park Hall, near Heyfield, Derbyshire. Crossbills, on their arrival in this
country, sometimes seem to apprehend little danger from man, and will
suffer themselves to be approached very near without manifesting the least
alarm. In the month of August, 1810, a small flock of these birds fre-
quented the plantations in Crumpsall, and on one occasion I fired three
shots in quick succession, and killed an individual each time in a small spruce
fir, without appearing to disturb their companions which were feeding in the
same tree, nor did they ultimately take flight till I shook the fir violently
for the purpose of dislodging the birds I had shot, from the branches on
which they had fallen. The high condition of these birds proved that their
disregard of man and fire-arms was not occasioned by hunger.

Tree Spai^row (i^ringilla montana). — This bird was captured at Chat
Moss, in Lancashire, and was kept alive for some time in an aviary at Ard-
wick, near Manchester, the proprietor of which presented it to the Society.

Olivaceous Gallinule (Gallinula pusilla). — Mr. James Hall took this rare
bird alive, in a drain in Ardwick meadows, near Manchester, in the autumn
of 1807.

Gi-eat Snipe (<S'c61opax major). — This is a male bird, and was shot at
Bradford, near Manchester.

LeacK's Petrel (Procellaria Leachii). — This specimen was found dead in
a ploughed field near Wilmslow, in Cheshire, about four or five years since,
the morning after a heavy gale of wind from the north-west. A short time
afterwards, another individual of the same species was discovered in a putrid
state, at little Green, near Middleton,in Lancashire. Several instances are
on record of Leach's Petrel and the Stormy Petrel having been found far
inland, after violent storms, in a state of complete exhaustion.

Little Auk (A'lca A'lce). — Like the smaller species, the Little Auk is oc-
casionally met with in the interior of the country, at a considerable distance
from the sea. Our specimen was taken alive at Sale, in Cheshire, on the
10th of December, 1824.

Crested Cormorant (Carbo cristatus). — The fact that the Crested Cor-
morant does not retain the long feathers on the crown of the head through-
out the year, has occasioned much perplexity among ornithologists. This
specimen is in the plumage of the pairing season, and was shot near Flam-
borough Head, in Yorkshire.

Besides the birds already enumerated, there are, in the Manchester col-
lection, the O^pr^y (FalcojHaliae^etus); i\ieCirl Bunting (Emhenzo. cirhts);
the Hawfinch (Fringilla Coccothraustes) j the Bearded Titmouse (Parus
biarmicus) ; and the Little Bustard (O'tis Tetrax), which have also been
killed in Great Britain ; but as their history is less perfectly known to me
than that of the preceding species, I must rest satisfied with having particu-
larised them. — John Blachwall. Crumpsall Hall, March 30. 1829.

CUMBEKLAND.

Birds in the Neighbourhood of Whitehaven, Cumberland. — Sir, Observing
that the Fauna of the different British counties constitutes a part of the plan
of your interesting Journal, I have taken the liberty of sending you a list of
the birds met with in this part of Cumberland ; they are named after the
Linnean system, except where expressly stated otherwise.

Accipitres. Falco -Buteo, the common Buzzard ; F. il^'llvus, the Kite ;
F. iVisus, the Sparrow-hawk ; F. Tinnunculus, the Cestril, the males toler-
ably frequent; F. ^"salon, the Merlin ; Strix O'tis, the Long-horned Owl ;
iS". brachyotos, the Short-eared Owl j S. flammea, the Barn Owl ; S. stridula,
the Tawny, or Wood, Owl.

Piece. Corvus Corax, the Raven ; a specimen, with a white ring round
its neck was seen and fired at, some time since, in the woods about Calder
Bridge ; C. fornix, the Hooded, or Royston, Crow, not very common ; C.

Wm^:

276 Natural History in the English Counties.

frugilegus, the Rook ; C. Corone, the Carrion Crow ; C. il/on^clula," the
Jackdaw ; C. Pica, the Magpie ; C. Grdculus, the Red-legged Crow, or
Chough, rare; C. glandarius, the Jay; Cuciilus canorus, the Cuckoo;
Picu3 medius, the Middle-spotted Woodpecker, rare ; -^Icedo I'spida, the
King-fisher.

hfnseres. -4^nas Cygnus, the Wild Swan, in hard winters small flocks are
seen, several were shot near Ennerdale Lake two or three years ago ; J'nas
Tadorna, the Sheldrake; A. nigra, the Black Diver; A. Manila^ the Scaup
Duck, not common ; ^. J'nser, the Grey Lag Goose ; ^4. erythropterus, the
Barnacle Goose, rare ; A. moUissima, the Eider Duck, very rare, I have
only seen one specimen, and that a young bird ; A. Clangula, the Golden
Eye, rare ; A. Penelope, the Widgeon ; Ji'nas cicuta, the Pentail Duck,
rare ; A. ferina, the Pochard, not common ; A. Cr^cca, the Teal ; A. B6%-
chas, the Mallard; A fuligula, the Tufted Duck, ikfergus Merganser, the
Goosander; ilf. Castor, the Dundiver ; yi'lca Tdrc^a the Razor Bill ; A,
A'ice, the Little Auk ; Pelicanus Carbo, the Corvorant ; P. Graculus, the
Shag, or Scarp. Colymbus Troille, the Foolish Guillemot ; C. rmmer, the
Imber Diver, rare ; C. rubricoUis, the Red-necked Grebe, iarus Rissa, the
Kittywake ; L. canus, the Common Gull, or Mew; L. fuscus, the Herring
Gull ; L. crepidatus, the Black-toed Gull of Bewick, rare, a chance one
being seen among a number of the common Mews. It is singular that no
notice is taken of this bird by Fleming, it being strictly British, and a re-
markable bird of its kind. L. ridibundus, the Black-headed Gull, or Black-
cap. L. marinus, the Black-backed Gull ; a colony of these birds breed on
the margin of a lake in this neighbourhood, called Devouck Water, and are
known here by the name of the Devouck Water Mews. A pair of these
Gulls, a few seasons ago, passing over the mountains to Ennerdale Lake,
forcibly dispossessed a colony of Blackcaps, who for years had bred on a
rocky island in the centre of the lake, and compelled them to resort to the
rocks on the margin, in consequence of which, the whole of the succeeding
young brood, from a sudden torrent of rain sweeping down the mountains,
were washed into the lake and destroyed ; the larger Gulls have retained
possession of their conquest ever since. Sterna Hiriindo, the common
tern ; S. minuta, the lesser tern.

Excellent specimens of most of the above, together with many others j^et
to be enumerated (having duplicates of most), I should be willing to dis-
pose of to any gentleman, or infant society forming a museum, on moderate
terms : also a beautiful collection of shells, upwards of 200 species, all per-
fect live shells, and mostly with duplicates if required. If the present com-
munication suits your purpose and is agreeable, I shall be happy to furnish
you, in detail, with a list of the specimens in the other branches of natural
history found here and on the coast. I remain, Sir, yours, &c. — J. Stanleyf
M.D. Whitehaven, Nov. 26. \S2S.

Hampshire.

Rare Plants collected by the Rev. S, Palmer of Chigwell. The rather
uncommon marked with a star (*). — Glaux maritima, beach, Fareham.
riburnum CKpulus, Fareham. * Myosurus minimus, Stubbington. *^^llium
oleraceum, Old Fareham. Adoxa moschatellina, Boarhunt. ^Sedum Tfele-
•phium, Titchfield. Prunus Padus, Pjrus ilf alus, Fareham. Panunculus
aurlcomus, hirsutus, bulbosus, arvensis, B^areham. R. /^ederaceus and
aquatilis. Peel Common near Brockhurst. Galeobdolon luteum, ZJraba
hirta and incana, fields and hedges near Brockhurst. Teesdalm nudicaulis,
Ornithopusperpusillus; Prifolium subterraneum, ochroleucum, marltimum,
suffocatum, common near Gosport. *iy6tus diffusus, Alverstoke. O^rchis
dlbida and conopsea, Portsdown Hill, fuscus aculeatus, hedges, passim.
J5^quisetum palustre. Ophioglossum vulgatum, copses near Fareham. Plan-

Natural Histmy in the English Counties, 277

tkgo maritima, Porchester. Pulmonaria marltima, lichen Ferry, Southamp-
ton.— S. Palmer. Chigwell, Essex, Sept. \ 828.

Somersetshire.

Bristol Institution. — The fifth Annual Meeting of the Members of this
Institution was held on Feb. 14. 1828, Thomas Daniel, Esq., in the chair,
when the Annual Report was read. The Committee, in adverting to the
principal objects to which their attention had been directed during the past
year, stated that the aggregate income had been so liberal, as not only to
enable them to make several improvements in the lecture room and in other
parts of the building, but to discharge every obligation for which the Insti-
tution was liable.

Courses of lectures had been delivered on phrenology; on ancient history;
on elocution ; on the structure and functions of the human frame, the
entire proceeds of which course were given to the Institution, in a spirit of
liberality on which the Committee are prevented from enlarging, by the
consideration that the lecturer, Mr. Estlin, is one of their own body ; and
on natural and experimental philosophy.

To procure an improved lucernal microscope, the profits of some lectures
upon the structure of the eye, delivered by Mr. Estlm in 1824, were, at his
request, set apart. The completion of the purchase was an object of the
lectures on the structure and functions of the human frame, recently de-
livered by Mr. EstHn. The receipts from these latter lectures have not only
been adequate to procure the improved lucernal microscope, but have
yielded a surplus of 20/. 5s. , which, at that gentleman's request, is to be
appropriated towards the future purchase of a chronometer clock, to be
placed in the Institution ; an instrument which is not to be met with In any
of the public establishments of this city.

During the past year, several specimens have been added to the museum.
The greater part of the collection of shells has been arranged in the glazed
drawers under the mineral cases, in such a manner as to illustrate the
genera as established by Lamarck. The geological collection and the ex-
traneous fossils have been arranged in the upright glass cases over the
minerals, in conformity with the views of Professor Buckland and the Rev.
Mr. Conybeare on that subject ; and the publication of Messrs. Conybeare
and Phillips has been used as a text-book. Among the donations received
in this department, a very fine specimen of the Ichthyosaurus tenuirostris,
from Lyme-Regis, deserves to be particularly noticed, which is believed to
be the most complete, if not the only one, ever yet discovered. In the
zoological and ornithological departments, a great number of specimens
have been received and prepared.

With a view to the promotion of a taste for the fine arts, as well as to
the appropriate embellishment of the interior of the building, casts of
several of the finest statues which grace the halls of the Vatican and other
celebrated galleries have been purchased, and arrangements are in progress
for placing them permanently in the principal room of the Institution. In
the same apartment it is also intended to arrange the noble and unique col-
lection of casts from the iEgina marbles, so liberally presented to the
Institution by C. R. Cockerell, Esq., whose active research discovered, and
whose learning and taste have illustrated, the beautiful originals.

A valuable addition has been made to the library of the reading room by

his Grace the Duke of Bedford, who has presented to the Institution

Engravings and Descriptions of the Woburn Abbey Marbles, and also En-

■ gratings of the Woburn Abbey Heaths. The value of the present is enhanced

by the circumstance, that these works were printed for the private use of

^ the noble donor, and have never been published.

278 Natural History in North Wales.

The Committee suggest to the friends of the Institution, that should any
works of a scientific character be in their possession which have ceased to
be useful to them, from a change of studies, or from any other cause, they
would confer a great benefit on this department by the loan or donation of
them, for the purposes of reference.

In adverting to the periodical evening meetings of the Philosophical and
Literary Society, annexed to the Institution, the Committee feel peculiar
pleasure in being able to state that the zeal, the talent, the research, and
the ingenuity which have successively furnished on those occasions a most
valuable series of original essays on interesting subjects of literature or
science, have met with their appropriate reward, in the assiduous attend-
ance, and the grateful applause, of numerous and intelligent audiences.

The Report concludes with an expression of confident hope that the
interest taken by the public in the welfare of the Institution, far from
diminishing, may each successive year augment in active energy, and thus
perpetuate and extend its various resources for gratification and instruction.
{Feb. 14. 1828.)

Devonshire.

The Dartmouth WaMer and other Birds. — As a lover of natural history,
and willing to assist any one in the pursuit of it, I beg you will inform your
ornithological friends that the Dartford Warbler, the Serle Bunting, and
the Grasshopper Lark are every summer to be seen in this immediate
neighbourhood. The first I have never seen except in the spring and sum-
mer ; the second does not migrate, but remains all the year ; the third
arrives in the spring, and departs in the autumn. The Dartford Warbler
haunts furze and hedge-rows, or the borders of heaths. A friend of mine
shot a pair last spring. They are extremely nimble and active, and remain
in the thickest bushes ; and although they will permit one to approach close
to the bush in which they are, from their constant motion it is difficult to
shoot them in a fit state for preservation. Still it is very possible to pro-
cure dead specimens any week, if diligently sought after. Should I ever
procure a living specimen of either, I shall have much pleasure in present-
ing it to your correspondent, R. Sweet. I have further to observe, that a
friend of mine, last October, shot on Dawlich Warren a fine specimen of
the Osprey, or Sea Eagle ; and in January last, at Newton Abbot, six miles
hence, two or three of the Waxen, or Bohemian, Chatterers. Of the
Little Horned Owl (^Strix iScops of Linnaeus) several pairs breed in the plant-
ations of the Rev. Thomas Martin, near Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire.
I am, Sir, &c. — Charles Blomer, Capt. H. P. 56th Regiment. Teignmouth,
Devonshire, April. 1829.

Art. IV. Natural History in North Wales.

Localities of rare Plants^ by N". Winch, Esq. — To any of your readers
who may be about to make a botanical tour in North Wales, the following
account of the localities of rare plants, ascertained during the course of
last summer, may prove usefiil in facilitating their researches. For the
accuracy of the catalogue I feel no hesitation in standing pledged, specimens
of the whole being in my herbarium. When no person's initials follow a
habitat, it implies that I have seen the plant growing in the place men-
tioned ; but I by no means would have it understood that these species
were first noticed there by myself, for, at least, four fifths of them were
pointed out to me by Mr. Wilson of Warrington, an indefatigable and
correct botanist, the fortunate discoverer of Cotoneaster vulgaris and Ch^ra
aspera in Wales, and Kobrfesia caricina in Scotland.

Natural History in North Wales, 279

Callitriche autumnalis. In Anglesea. W. Wilson, Esq. Specimen. Not-
withstanding the authorities of Wahlenberg and Smith, I cannot help con-
sidering this plant as a submersed variety of the common C. aquatica. In
deep ditches connected with Dervventwater in Cumberland, it may be seen
growing luxuriantly.

Veronica hybrida, Eng. Bot. t. 673. T. spicata var. j3. of Hudson. Near
Gloddaeth, W.W. ; on the ledges of the encrinal limestone rocks above
the village of Llandudno. These are Davies and Griffith's localities for
Veronica spicata; but, from authenticated specimens, I am convinced that
this Welsh Veronica is the same as that found on St. Vincent's rocks near
Bristol, and on Umpher-head in the vicinity of Cartmel, Lancashire. The
apparent difference between it and the Cambridgeshire plant will be evident
on consulting the well-executed figures in Eng. Bot Still whether they
be specifically distinct, I will not pretend to determine.

Fedia dentata. On the rocks above Llandudno.

iS'chce^nus nigricans. On the shores of the Menai, near the bridge,
Anglesea.

^cirpus rijfus. In the same place.

Eriophorum polystachyou. On boggy ground near Beaumaris, Angle-
sea. — E. pubescens. In the same locality. — E. gracile. On Cwm Idwal,
Carnarvonshire. W.W. Specimens ; a doubtful species.

Knappi'a agrostldea. Abberffraw, Anglesea. W.W. Sps.

Poa rlgida. On the coast near Beaumaris. — P. gla^ica. Near Twll Du
on Cwm Idwal.

Festuca ux\\g\\im\%. On the S.W. coast of Anglesea. W.W. Sp.

^rundo epigejos. On the banks near the sea, N. of Beaumaris.

TViticum /oliaceum. On the beach near Beaumaris.

Galium Witheringii. Near the Menai Bridge, Anglesea. May not this
be a variety of G. palustre, growing in rather dry situations.

jRiibia peregrina. On rocks by the road-side between the ferry and
Beaumaris, also between Bangor and the Menai Bridge, and at Gloddaeth,
Carnarvonshire.

Potamogeton lanceolatum. In the rivulet near Longwy, Anglesea.
W.W. Sps.

Sagina ap^tala. Near Beaumaris, Bangor, and Llandudno. — S. marl-
tima. On Beaumaris Green, and the coast in Llandudno Bay.

i^fyosotis sylvatica. In woody situations near Beaumaris.

iithospermum officinale. On the rocks at Llandudno. — L. maritimum.
On the beach in Llandudno Bay.

Convolvulus Soldan^lla. In the same situation.

Lobelia Dortmanna. In the river between the lakes at Llanberis, in
Lake Ogwan, and other lakes in North Wales. Not rare.

Fiola hlrta. On the rocks above Llandudno. — V. canina var. arenaria.
Near Swansea. Bicheno, Sps.

Erythrae'a pulch^lla. Aberffraw, Anglesea. W.W. Sps. — E. littoralis.
On the coast below the Great Orms Head.

Torilis ^nthriscus. Near Llandudno. /

Shon ^momum. Near Llan Ros. W.W.

^nethum JPoeniculum. By the road-side near Llandudno.

jStatice reticulata. On the sea-beach S. of Llandudno.

^'llium vineale. On the rocks above Llandudno.

iScilla v^rna. On the coast of Anglesea close to the Menai Bridge ;
on rocks near Bangor ; also, above Llandudno, and near the Little Orms
Head.

Anth^ricum serotinum. Just coming into flower. May 30. ; on rocks
close to the chasm called Twll Du on Cwm Idwal.

>4sparagus officinalis. Coast near Llanfadog. Henslow. Sps.

jyincus trigliimis. On Cwm Idwal.

280 Natural History in North WaleL

Oxyria reniformis. On the same mountain.

^lisma natans. In the river between the Llanberis Lakes. — A. ranun-
culoides var. repens. By the sides of lakes in Anglesea and near Bangor.
W.W. Sps.

CBnothera biennis. Near Swansea. Bicheno. Sps.

5axffraga stellaris. On rocks by the road-side near Lake Ogwan, and on
the mountains. Not rare. — ^S". nivalis. On the Peak of Snowden. W.W.
— S. oppositifolia. On Cwm Idwal near Twll Du. — S. caespitosa. Three
varieties, at least, of this very changeable plant occur in North Wales.
Near Twll Du its common appearance is that of the Lady's Cushion of the
gardens ; but in this state it has not been figured in the Eng. BoL, though
S. hirta, t. 2291. of that woi'k, comes nearest to it. The segments of the
leaves are narrow, and it is but slightly hairy. Under this appearance it is
S. caespitosa of the Swedish botanists. On Cwm Idwal near Twll Du it is
plentiful. S. caespitosa var. greenlandica, Eng. Bot. t. 794., the dwarf
broad-leaved variety is met with occasionally on the same mountain ; and S.
palmata, Eng, Bot. t. 455., S. decipiens, Sternberg, t. 23., the large broad-
leaved variety grows on the Peak of Snowden. The two latter are described
in Sniiith's English Flora as S. caespitosa a. and /3. — S. tridactylites. On
walls near Beaumaris and the Little Orms Head.

Dianthus deltoides. On rocks near Diganwy.

Silene nutans. On rocks above Llandudno and on the Little Orms
Head. — S. acaulis var. flore r^bro et flore albo. On Cwm Idwal.

Arenaria vima. On Cwm Idwal, the Little Orms Head, and at Llan-
dudno.

Cotyledon umbilicus. On rocks and stonewalls near Bangor, Llan-
dudno, Carnarvon, and Beaumaris.

*Sedum dasyphyllum. At present indigenous on stone walls near Con-
way church, though probably the outcast of a garden. — S, anglicum. On
rocks about Bangor, Llandudno, &c. — -S. Forsteriamwi. On Cwm Idwal,
but more abundant on the limestone rocks of the Little Orms Head.

Cer6,stium semidecandrum. On the coast near Beaumaris and Llan-
dudno.— C. tetrandrum. In the same localities. — C. latifolium. On
Clogwyn Du ; also on the Peak of Snowden. W.W. Sps.

jSpergula subulata. "On hedge banks near the Menai Bridge, Carnarvon-
shire.

Cotoneaster vulgaris. Hooker in Fioj^a Londinensis. On three ledges of
the limestone rocks above the village of Llandudno. First added to the
British Flora by W. Wilson, Esq.

Pjrus J'ria. On the same rocks.

^Spirae^a Filipendula. Same place.

Rosa rubella. On the banks of the Menai, near Bangor. W.W. — R.
^pinosissima /3. Ciphiana. In Llandudno Bay. — R. villosa. Near Llan-
beris. — R. Forsteri. In the grounds at Penrhyn Castle, near Bangor ; also
near Llandudno. — 22. Sherardi. At Park Pool, Anglesea. W.W. An
elegant rose, and very unlike any other species which ever came under my
observation.

iJubus nitidus. Near Beaumaris.

Potentllla v^rna. In fields near the Little Orms Head, and on rocks at
Llandudno.

G'laucium luteum. On the coast near Conway, and below the Orms
Heads.

Papaver hybridum. Near Llandudno. — P. cambricum. By the river
near Llanberis, and by the Ogwan near Dolawar slate quarries. The
favourite situation of this rare plant is on sand banks left by the winter tor-
rents in the beds of alpine rivers. >

Cistus marifolius. On the rocks above Llandudno ; abundant. — • C. He-
Mnthemum. On the same rocks, &c. &c. — C. guttatus. On Holyhead
Mountain, Anglesea. W.W. Sps.

Natural History in North Wales. ^fe:,

Aquilegia vulgaris. In the woods of Plas Newydd, Anglesea, on rOcks
by the Menai, and in the grounds at Penrhyn Castle, near Bangor*

Thalictrum minus. On Cwm Idwal, and near Llandudno.

Ranunculus parviflorus. On stone fences near Bangor Feiry.

Trollius etiropae\is. In meadows by the river Ogwan, and near the
Llanberis Lakes; abundant.

Zamium amplexicaule. Near Beaumaris. ^

Thymus ^'cinos. On the rocks above Llandudno. — T» Calamintha, la
the same place.

Scrophularia vernalis. In the lane near Gloddaeth.

Orobanche major. Among furze near Bangor. — 0. minor. On the
ruins of Diganwy Castle. W.W.

HutchCnsia petrae^a. On rocks and stone fences above Llandudno. Not
rare.

iepidium hirtum. Near Bangor.

Teesdalm nudicaulis. By the road side on Penmanmaur. Mr. Roberts
of Bangor. Sps,

Crambe marltima. On rocks and the sea-beach at the Orms Heads and
in Llandudno Bay.

jSinapis tenuifolia. On the walls of Chester.

Cheiranthus Chelri. On the ruined castles of Conway, Beaumaris, and
Carnarvon.

yl'rabis Mspida. On Clogwyn Ddu'r Arddu, Snowden. W.W. Sps. -—
A. hirsuta. On stone walls near Beaumaris, and on rocks at Llandudno.

^rassica oleracea. On rocks at the Little Orms Head.

Geranium liicidum. On walls near the Little Orms Head. — G. pusil-
lum. On the coast at Beaumaris. — G. sanguinetim. About Llandudno,
and on the coast between it and Conway.

Ji^umaria capreolata var. flore albo. In hedges near the Little Orms
Head. This variety I never observed in the North of England, where the
plant is to be met with in every hedge; but I have specimens of it gathered
at Naples.

ricia sylvatica. In woods near Beaumaris.

Hippocrepis comosa. On the rocks above Llandudno.

TVifolium ornithopodioides. On Beaumaris Green, and on the sea-coast
a little to the north of the town. — T. sufFocatam. On Beaumaris Green ;
abundant. — T. striatum. On the coast near Beaumaris and near
Diganwy.

Medicago maculata. Near the ruins of Gogarth on the Great Orms
Head.

i/ieracium alpinum. On Glydyr Vor. W.W. — H. sylvaticum. On
Chester walls.

-Hypochae'ris maculata. On rocks above Llandudno.

J?pipactis latifolia, /3. Sm. Eng. Fl. Near Llandudno and Gloddaeth.
W.W. — E. ensifolia. In the wooded bank opposite the inn at Dolbadarn
near Llanberis.

Carex limosa. Near Llanfechell, Anglesea. W.W. Sps. — f. dfstans.
Near the Menai Bridge, Anglesea. — C. bin^rvis. In the same place.

fililix Russelliowa. About Bangor. — S. arg^ntea. On the coast towards
the north of Anglesea. W.W. — S. Smithiana. Near Beaumaris.

Rhodiola rosea. On rocks on Cwm Idwal, near Twll Du.

Juniperus alpina. On Glydyr Vor. Probably only a variety of J,
communis.

Chiira gracilis. In Llyn Idwal. — C. aspera, Greville's Cryptogamic Flora.
Near Holyhead, Anglesea. W.W. Sps.

Woodsia ilv^n«is. Upon Glydyr Vor near Lyn-y-Cwm.

Cyathea regia. On Snowden, in a cave where copper is selected, also
near Twll Du on Cwm Idwal. W.W. Sps.
Vol. 11. — No. 8. u

282 Natural History in Scotland,

Pteris crfspa. In the Pass of Llanberis, and near the Lake Ogwan.

Isoetes lacustris. In Llyn-y-Cwm, Lake Ogwan, and the Llanbem
Lakes.

Diphyscium foliosum ; Gymndstomum aestivum ; Anictangkim ciliatum ;
AndrsB^a alpina ; Encalypta ciliata ; Weism acuta ; Trichostomum ellip-
ticum ; T. aciculare ; Dicraniim flexuosum a and y. — D. adiantoides. On
Cwm Idwal. — D, polyphyllura. Near Nant Frangon.

Orthotrichum diaphJinura. On walls near Bangor Cathedral. — O.
Hutchinsia. Near Nant Frangon. W.W.

Tortula tortuosa. Near Lake Ogwan and Nant Frangon.

JBartrami« Hallferi. In the Pass of Llanberis.

Pterogonium filifiSrme, Neckera crlspa, N. curtip^ndula, ^Typnum ruf^s-
eens, H. dimorphum. On Cwm Idwal. — H. piliferum. In the Pass of
Llanberis. — H. commutatum. In Anglesea.

J5ryum Zierii. On Cwm Idwal.

Jungermanma trichophylla, J. j'uniperina, J. emarginjlta, J. nemorosa,
alpine var. On Cwm Idwal. — J. pumila. Near Bangor. W.W. — J»
concinn£lta. On Carnedd, Llewelyn, and Snowden, W.W. ; on Cwm Idwal,
and in the Pass of Llanberis. — J, inflata. Anglesea. W.W. — J.Taylori.
Cwm Idwal. — J. polyanthos. Near Bangor, Abber, and Llanberis. W.W.
J. jfrichomanes, J. stipulacea. Near Llanberis. W.W. — J. barbata. In
Anglesea, near Bangor and Llanberis. W.W. J. platyphylla ? Izevigata.
Near Abber. W.W. — J. cilikris. In Anglesea. W.W. — J. Hutehinsi<:p. In
Llanberis Pass. W.W.

Lecidea CEd^ri. L. silacea. On rocks near Llanberis. — L. vesicularis.
On rocks above Llandudno.

Lecanora gdlida. On rocks in Llanberis Pass. — L. crassa. On rocks
above Llandudno.

Parmelia aquila. On rocks on the coast of Anglesea.

Gyrophora proboscidea. In Llanberis Pass.

Urceolaria Acharii, Stereocaulon fragile, S. coralloides, Cornicul^ria
pubescens. On rocks and stones in Llanberis Pass.

Endocarpon Web^n'. On stones in Lake Ogwan.

Collema nigrum. On slate rocks at Nant Frangon. — Collema Idcerum.
Among moss on the ruins of an old tower near Beaumaris.

Your most obedient servant,

Nat. John Winch.
Newcastle upon Tyne, Feb. 1 8.

Art. V. Natural History in Scotland,

Rare Birds shot in Dumfries-shire. — The following rare birds, of the
natural family 5colopacidae, have been killed in Dumfries-shire during. the
last winter. The first, Phalaropus platyrhinchus, is of rare occurrence
in Great Britain, and the distribution even very limited in every part of the
world. The others are more frequently found, particularly in fenny coun-
tries, and upon the English shores. In the present district they are met
with once or twice in a season, either in very stormy winters, or occasion*
ally in spring and autumn, when passing to or from their breeding quarters.
Phalaropus platyrhinchus (Grey Phalarope) was shot on the shore of the
Solway Firth at Preistside, parish of Ruthwell. The specimen had nearly
attained its perfect winter plumage, retaining only a few black and reddish
markings. Totanus ochropus (Green Sandpiper) was shot at the foot of
Skein Water, a small stream running into the Annan, where a pair have
frequented for some years, and, with the last, is in the possession of John
D. Murray, Esq., Murray thwaite, Dumfries-shire. It is the first time that
authenticated specimens of these hirdii have lie^n killed in this district, —

Calendar of Nature.

283

Tolanus 6^16ttis (Green Shank). A pair of these birds were shot on the
Annan, about two miles below Jardine Hall : they frequented' also the
adjoining lochs of Lochmaben ; and, when disturbed, immediately passed
over, always nearly by the same route, to the quieter haunt, flying very
liigh, and incessantly uttering the shrill piping whistle. They are now in
the collection of Sir W. Jardine, Bart. — W, J. May 21, 1829.

Art. yj. Calendar of Nature,
Scotland.

Diagram, showing the Motion of the Mercury in the Barometer and Ther-
mometer, and the Dew Point obtained by the Differential Thermometer,
or the mean of each, for each ten days in April and May; also the Depth
of Rain in the Pluviometer, and the Quantity of Moisture evaporated
from the Evaporating Gauge, for the same periods; as extracted from the

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284

Calendar of Nature,

Register kept at Annat Gardens, Perthshire, N. lat. 56° 23^', above th«
level of the sea 172 ft., and 15 miles distant from the coast, by the mean
of daily observations, at 10 o*clock morning and 10 o'clock evening.
The shaded part of the columns, representing the evaporating gauge,
sliows the water remaining unevaporated at the end of every ten days, when
the gauge was again filled to the brim ; the open space from the top con-*
sequently shows the depth evaporated each period. The rain-gauge was
emptied at the end of every ten days, and the shaded part of the column
shows the depth of the fall of rain. The dotted line t shows the mean
temperature ; the line marked d shows the mean point of deposition, or the
temperature at which part of the moisture held in solution in the atmo-
sphere throughout the day began to fall in the shape of rain or dew ; the
double line b shows the mean height of the mercurial column in the baro-
meter in inches and tenths. As lines representing the monthly meanj
produce confusion, they are not inserted, and will appear in figures in the
Calendar of Nature.

Diagram, showing at one view the Mean Temperature for April and May,
from A.D. 1822.

76

"S

-m^ May.

'. ■■

1

3

^

L..

i»o

40

A

(f

J...

,

■

?, 1

1

April.

]

(

-,

S

1

^

"^

I

«

1

By this it will be seen that the mean temperature in April of the present
year is lower than in any of the seven years immediately preceding. The
dotted lines show the mean temperature for April and May in each year ;
a shows the mean for April ; and we the mean for May for the eight years
succeeding 1822 inclusive. The temperature for April this year is some-
thing more than 3°, while that for May is rather more than a° above the
ordinary average. The fall of rain for the two months is only 3 in. 45
decimal parts, or about l|in. less than on any of the two former seasons
during the same period. The coldest day was on the 2d of April ; mean
temperature of that day, 36-5°,* extreme cold, 31*5°; wind,N. The warm-
est day for the two months was the 23d of May : mean temperature of
that day, 56°; extreme heat, 62°; wind, W. The mercury in the baro-
meter was highest on the 26th of May; height, 30 in.; wind, E. : and
lowest on the 15th of April; height, 2825 in.; wind, W. There were
loud gales of north-easterly winds on the 2d and 29th of April, and north-
westerly winds on the 4th of May,

Calendar of Nalure. 28-5

Calendar of Nature for the Carse of Oowrie, Perthshire.

April, — The mean temperature for this month was only 42*8°, or about
3° below the ordinary average temperature for that month. From the low
temperature of the three months immediately preceding (see p. 204.), it may
easily be inferred that at the end of April vegetation was unusually late.
Cold north and north-easterly winds prevailed for the most part of the
month, with the exception of only 6 days, from the 14th to the 20th, on
which days the wind was westerly. The Erythronium d6ns canis (Dog's-
tooth Violet) opened its flowers on the 1st, the Pulmonaria paniculata on
the 3d. The sea-mew appeared on ploughed fields in the Low Carse on
the 8th. Gooseberries were in leaf on the 8th, 27 days later than last
season. The Soldan^lla alpina and Draba aizoides, two alpine plants,
were in flower in Annat garden on the 12th. Wildgeese had taken their
departure by the 14th ; it is remarked that they never leave the Carse till
they have tasted the young braird of beans. Daffodils were in flower on
the 14th, 26 days later than last season. The larch tree, which usually
shows its foliage between the 1st and 5th of April, did not appear green
before the 25d. Green-gage plums were in flower on walls on the 29th,
23 days later than last season. Oats that were sown in Annat park on the
Sth, gave a braird on the 28th, or 20 days later. Mean temperature of
that period, 44°. The atmosphere was cloudy 20 days, and clear 10 days.

Mai/. — At the beginning of this month vegetation was about 23 days in
ar^ear. The mean temperature for the month was 51*5°, which is more
than half a degree above the ordinary average. The wind was north and
westerly 14 days, and north and easterly 17 days. There were 9 days in
which the atmosphere was clouded, and 22 of clear sunshine ; which, to-
gether with the limited fall of rain, will account for the rapid progress
vegetation made towards the latter end of the month. The sloethorn was
in flower on the 3d. Barley sown at Annat park on the 17th of April
brairded on the 2d of May, a period of 14 days : mean temperature of that
period, 43'3°. Swallows appeared on the 3d ; but, as insects were scarce,
some were found dead near the coast. The cuckoo was heard on the 6th :
we never hear that bird nowadays in April in this quarter. The horse-
chestnut came in leaf with the appearance of the swallows, and the wood
anemone came in flower at the approach of the cuckoo. Crows were
fledged on the 9th, 5 days later than last season. Barley sown on the
1st brairded on the 10th inclusive, a period of lO days: mean temperature
of that period, 47*7°. The maple was in leaf on the llth; the summer
snowdrop and Tris pumila in flower on the llth ; the beech and lime were
in leaf on the 13th ; and figs, on walls, in leaf on the 14th. At this period,
vegetation was only 6 days behind what it was at the same period last
season. An exception appeared in the lilac, which did not unfold its blos-
soms till the 24th, about 12 days later than last season. The Virginian an4
Rose strawberries, too, seem to haVe been retarded longer than other plants
in unfolding their blossoms, which did not appear before the 17th. Barley
brairded on the 18th which had been sown on the 9th, a period of 9 days:
mean temperature of that period, 51*1°. Turnips brairded on the 18th
which had been sown on the 13th, a period of 5 days : mean temperature
of that period, 53-1°. The walnut came in leaf on the 24th. Red-streak
apples w^e in flower on the 26th, and the JVarcissus on the 36th. So that
vegetation is at this time within two days* march of last season at the end
of May ; a proof that a late spring is no sure indication of a late harvest. —
A. G. Annat Gardens, June 1. 1829.

1

286 Hints fm- Itnpfovemenf$,

Art. VII. Microscopic Amusementf as a Means of educating the

Feelings,

\ Mr. Carpenter, in Gill^s Repository, vol. iv. p. 336., speaking of the
fine displays of anatomy and wonderful construction of insects, creature*
so much " despised, and which are, indeed, but too often made the subject
of wanton sport by many persons, who amuse their children by passing a
pin through the bottom of their abdomen, in order to excite pain and
long suffering in the insect, and thus making them spin, as they ignorantly
term it," has the following most humane and benevolent observations : —
" Many of these cruel sports might undoubtedly be effectually checked, if
the teachers of schools were occasionally to exhibit to their pupils, under
the microscope, the various parts of an insect with which they are familiar ;
and, by interesting lectures of instruction, to point out the uses to which
those parts are applied by the insect, for its preservation and comfort ; and
that, when they are deprived of them, or they are even injured, a degree
of suffering takes place in the creature, which the children at present seem
to be wholly uninformed of. I certainly think that, if the above-mentioned
useful lessons were inculcated, they would afford a check to those cruel
propensities in many children, which they at present indulge in, for want of
being better instructed."

We think this a most excellent idea, and have little doubt that its adoption
in schools and families would have the intended effect. We earnestly be-
seech such of our readers as are patronesses or patrons of girls' or boys*
schools to purchase, and give or lend to the mistress or master, a common
microscope of any power that can be afforded, from 5s. to l/. Directions
•for its use will be sent along with it ; and the mistress or master may first
instruct two or three monitors in its use, and then grant permission to ex-
amine objects with the aid of a monitor, as a reward for merit, and as a
gratification during a part of the hours of recreation, and on holidays.
Vestries might do worse than purchase a microscope for parochial schools;
and, in rich parishes, a seven-guinea microscope might be purchased, which
would show the active molecules of Mr. Brown, Dr. Drummond, and
others, which we have seen, or think we have seen, through such a mi-
croscope. If a microscope would be a good thing in a school, it would
evidently be most valuable in a private family ; and we should say at once,
that whoever can afford to keep a governess or tutor, ought to afford also
to have a seven-guinea microscope. In our next Number, we shall com-
mence a series of papers, exemplifying the use of different kinds of micro-
scopes, with a view to the prosecution of this excellent idea of Mr.
Carpenter.

Art. Vltl. Hints for Improvements,

A Natural History Society. — Sir, In looking at the prosperity and high
attainments made in this country, in perfecting all kinds of machinery,
we are led to consider what is the cause, and what has placed knowledge
on this head in so much more an advanced state than on many others, and
in this I allude to the study of natural history. It may be answered,
because it has not the means for remunerating the toil and labour used in
acquiring it. This may be true and yet not be all. In zoology and entomo-
logy, the correct information of the commonest, as well as the rarest, of
their parts will be best obtained by those who make it their endeavour to
collect specimens. Now, the persons who do so arc generally those of no

Hints for Improvements. 287

great abilities, ytt having a taste for the pursuit, which the proht arising from
it enhances. This profit is derived by supplying those who desire to pos-
sess, without the trouble of collecting, as well as those whose study ia
directed to the theoretical and physiological part. Hence we see the
majority of books, published for the extension of these studies, are in
error in many parts, for the want of that information which only th©
practical pursuit of them can give. Thus, those who publish apply for guid-
ance to those who collect; but the pecuniary advantage they derive from
secrecy on this point, leads them to give wrong dates and circumstances.
Many instances oecur of the public being wrongly informed, from theses
causes, by publishers of works on natural history.

I would, therefore, propose something that would obviate this, and make
a more public acquaintance with what may be the desiderata, to those
who pursue it, of natural history, viz. the habits and places of their
specimens.

My ideas are, that a fund should be established by those who are desirous
to join in a theory of this sort, by subscription ; a society formed, who
should be at liberty, in the same way as the Royal Society, to offer money
or medals as a reward for the best information respecting any subject that
might be proposed by the society, due care being taken that such was-
truly authenticated. Such a course would operate materially on those
who only look to pecuniary advantage; as in addition to the reward
would be a self-satisfaction, that what they had discovered would be duly
attributed to them, and made known as such, which their present want of
ability to communicate properly their ideas precludes. A simple medal
would induce these people to give information, when the offer of four or
five times its value has been unable to accomplish it, because it would
enable them to show they had done something for the pursuit they had
embraced. Persons publishing would give more satisfaction, and would get
rid of an idea that has some hold now, viz. that book-making, and not
science, is the inducement. In furtherance of the plan I have proposed,
I am quite ready to contribute to the promotion of it by my subscription.
I remain. Sir, yours, &c. — K. Ipswich, Feb. 17. 1829.

Songs of Birds. — A very pleasant letter in the Magazine of Natural His-,
tory (Vol. I. p. 414), on the subject of American song-birds, suggested to me
an idea, that letters on English birds, written in the same lively strain,
would be interesting. Many persons, who are highly interested in all the
operations of nature, are at a loss to distinguish the songs, cries, flights,
&c., of birds ; the more, as many vary at different seasons of the year.
I think, if a familiar account of the haunts, habits, sounds, &c., of such
birds as are more commonly seen in any particular season, were given in
the Magazine preceding it, it would be both interesting and useful. I have
not a sufficient practical acquaintance with the feathered tribe, to do jusr
tice to such a thing myself, or I would send you a specimen of what I
mean ; it should be done by a person familiar with their notes and flights,
not by one who must put " salt upon the tails of the birds" to examine
their colours and forms, before he could tell you how they ought to fly and
sing. I find that comparatively few persons are aware of the vocal powers of
that very familiar bird, the robin: 1 have frequently heard this bird sing in
a manner to do honour to its connection with the nightingale ; when it has
been disputed, whether or not it could be the robin. I would at any time
silence the finished song of the chaffinch, in three distinct parts, to listen
to the mellow notes of my warm-hearted friend, robin. I doubt, even, if
there be any bird I would prefer but the nightingale itself: I hesitate as to
the black-cap. I wish, however, some one would introduce them to us
more familiarly, and make us acquainted with their several claims and
merits. — i'. JT. Feb. 1 \^29*

. U 4

^S Queries and Answers.

Baron de Humboldt. — 1 have frequently heard it regretted that no Eng-
Ksh translation has yet been announced of many of the works of this illus-
trious traveller and natural philosopher, such as his Tableaux de la Nature,
Mecueii d^ Observations de Zoologies On the Geographical Distribution of
Plants, On Isothermal Lines, and other detached essays and memoirs of a
popular character. Considering the lofty situation this incomparable author
occupies on the hill of science, it is surprising this has not been already
done ; and should the respectable publishers of the Personal Natrative, &c.,
not be engaged in accomplishing it, I hope some competent person will take
the hint, and immediately set about conferring so signal- a benefit upon the
English reader, from which he may safely calculate upon an ample remu-
neration for his labours. — J. E, B. The Court near Wrexham^ Feb. 4. 1829.

Art. IX. Queries and Anders,

Skulls of Brutes. — Your correspondent C. (p. 209.) asks if the skulls of
brutes are in two tables in the manner of those of the human race. It is
not clear, whether by brutes he means all animals except man, or the Lin-
nean order of Jf^iluee ; however, in either case he will find the information
he wants in Cuvier*s eighth lecture on Comparative Anatomy, where he will
ftlso find what he does not seem aware of, viz. that the skulls of men are
formed of eight instead of two plates, Yours, &c. — Thos, Thompson,
Hull, Sept. 9. 1828.

2 he Owl feeding on Fish. — The Rev. W. T. Bree has narrated the circum-
stance of the common brown owl's feeding on fish (Vol.1, p. 179), confessing
his ignorance of the methods by which the bird is enabled to take its prey.
I am as ignorant of the subject as the reverend gentleman, but I humbly
suggest the probability of there being a luminous appearance in the eyes of
the owl, by which the fish are enticed within the reach of its beak or claws.
Fishing by torch-light is practised in some countries : it is likely that it could
have derived its origin from a consideration of this kind. — J. S. Thur-
garton, Norfolk, April 17. 1829.

Bearing of Pheasants. — The following observations are for the use of your
Correspondent from the Isle of Wight (.Vol. I. p. 500.). Pheasants may be
easily reared, if they are fed on boiled eggs till they are able to eat small
wheat, when a heap of gravel should be deposited in their coops. It is
usual to give them the larvae of ants, but they should never have more of
them at one time than they would be likely to find in the fields. I should
recommend the larvae of the black ant, because I think that the larvae of the
red ant sometimes prove fatal. I once supplied a very healthy brood of
pheasants with a hearty meal of them, and in less than an hour some of the
Wrds were dead. If I am right in classing cause and effect, this is a singular
fact. I accounted for it by supposing that the peculiar acid which is so pre-
dominant in the perfect insect, may be equally potest ia the larvae and as-
fatal.- Jrf.

The Crojf;, noticed by P. H. (p. 101 .), was evidently the Royston, or Hooded^
Crow (C'orvus Comix Linn.), which is a peculiar species that comes over
to us from the north of Europe at the approach of winter, about the same
time with the woodcock and other birds of passage, is seen generally in
pairs, and near to the sea coast, and leaves us again in the spring. — J. C.

The Crow alluded to in p. loi. is the Hooded, or Royston, Crow, common
in the Isle of Thanet and parts of East Kent, C'orvus Cornix of Linnseus. —
Anon. Bishopsbourne, Kent, March 26. \S29. ,

Scolopax Sabin'i (in answer to A. C. R., p. 207.) — There is a very good
representation and description of the *i'c6lopax Sabini in the second volume

Qtieries mid Answers. 28^

of Bewick's British Birds, p. 416., last edition. I am, Sir, Ac. — Perceval
Hunter. May 6. 1829.

The Black-headed Bunting. — Do you call the Black-headed Bunting a
Blackcap ? as we have no migratory bird in this neighbourhood but it
which deserves the name. What is called the blackcap here is the largest
titmouse, which stays the winter with us, and in summer is so injurious to
the crops of peas, that 1 have known them sometimes eat them all, not leav-
ing a single pod for any one else. — T. G. Clithero. April 17. 1829.

Stoiu'chat and Wheatear. — What is the difference between the stourchat
and the wheatear? The same bird is called by both names here. lam.
Sir, &c. — Id.

Swperfcetation of a Pheasant's Egg. — I had a pheasant's nest last year, on
one of my fences, containing eleven eggs. In due time ten birds escaped from
the shell and one egg proved barren. In one of the shells, out of which a
bird had evidently gone, was a thick film, extending entirely across the middle,
in the direction of the conjugate diameter, and dividing the egg into two ca-
vities. Beyond the^film, when broken, was discovered another egg, of a glo-
bular form, having a very hard shell, and containing, as usual, white and
yolk. My brother still retains it in his collection. Is this an instance of
what medical men call superfGetation?— /. S. Thiirgarton, Norfolk, Aprii
17. 1828.

Winter Quarters of Frogs. — In reply to the query on the winter quarters
of frogs (p. 103.), it must be recollected, that on the breaking up of the ice
at the end of winter, or in the early part of spring, in these climates, vast
numbers of full-grown frogs make their way to the surface of the water in
the ponds and ditches which they inhabit, and there congregate, with their
heads out of the water, making such a gurgling noise as often to attract, the
attention of idle boys, whom I have often seen contending with each other in
the numbers they could knock on the head with their missiles ; a circum-
stance which probably suggested the fable of the Frogs and the Boys, and
which our young friends will, we hope, bear in mind, when they contem-
plate this annual display of joy in these harmless creatures on the return of
genial spring ; and recollect what the old frog said, viz. " Although this may
appear fine sport to you, remember it is death to us.'* As, then, the frogs re-
appear in spring, it k evident that they do not die at the beginning of winter;
and the general belief is, apparently not without foundation, that they lie
dormant amongst the weeds at the bottom of the water, or buried under thie
soft mud ; the reason for which may probably be found in the abstraction
of food during the winter season : as they can neither obtain food nor get to
the surface to respire, these functions, as in all hybernating animals, become
suspended, and the animal, as in a profound sleep, remains quite uncon-
scious of its existence. — J. C.

Gelatinous Mass like the Remains of & Frog. — In reference to the remarks
about frogs in p. 103., permit me to say, that the gelatinous mass your cor-f
respondent refers to, is not unlikely that commonly called " Shot-star,"
and occasionally met with in fenny countries and meadows. I have nqt
doubt but it proceeds from frogs having been swallowed by sea-fowl, and
ejected again from the stomach ; the gelatinous substance is, in all proba-
bility, the omduct of the frog, which expands by the temperature of the
stomach, and is the principal cause of its being voided shortly after having
been swallowed. Thus the oviduct of the frog, if placed in a tumbler of
water, about blood heat, expands to very many times its original volume.

As to showers of frogs, an officer of high rank in India informs me that
he has not unfrequently seen, after a shower, the roof of his tent covered
with minute frogs, and sufficiently lively too ; may not powerful evapor-
ation be also a source of their transport into the air, or the tube of
the water-spout inhale them which the nimbus diffuses jmd scatters?— »
J, Murray/.

290 Queries and Answers*

Mole Cricket {Gr^llus gryllotdlpa) {^g. 77.)» (in answer to Mr. Robert
Jones). — These cu-
rious hemipterous "77
insects are oftener
heard than seen;
as they only come
abroad in the night,
and then, as raay be
seen by their paths,
but a little way from
their dwelling place.
They live, breed, and
constantly inhabit
the sides of ditches and drains, in boggy grounds. Here they form numerous
tunnels about 6 or 8 in. under the surface, for which their two foremost feet
are well adapted, being remarkably strong, and shaped like the large claws
of a lobster. They are an ugly and hostile-looking insect, though perfectly
harmless; 1^ in. in length, of a dirty brown colour, and entirely covered
with close short down, which serves to form an envelope of hair, and defend
them from the contact of water while immersed. Their chirp or call,
which appears to be produced by the vibration of their shells, is a deep-
toned jar, performed in their recesses, and has caused them to be called
the Churr-worm ; a name very significant of their call. — J. M, Chelsea,

Harvest Bug (A'cariis autumnalis Shaw). — Passing some days in Glouces-
tershire, with my family, in the early part of September last, we were daily
annoyed by the appearance of small vesicles, chiefly on the neck, arms, and
legs. These vesicles seemed to be filled with a semi-transparent fluid,
were surrounded with more or less of redness, and attended by very
troublesome itching, especially if irritated by rubbing. Our friend (a
medical man) assured us it was caused by the harvest bug, which he de-
scribed as an insect of very minute size, and of a bright red colour. It may be
remarked, that we invariably found fresh vesicles making their appearance
after walking in a neighbouring plantation. If you or any of your readers
could throw any light upon the natural history of this troublesome little in-
sect, it would oblige yours, &c. — G. B. K. Birmingham^ Nov. 14. 1828.

The Sea Spider filluded to in p. 21 1., and which, by being exhibited under
the title of a tarantula sea spider, has no doubt extracted some money
from the pockets of John Bull, cannot be regarded in any other light than
as one of those gross impositions upon the public, which are occasionally
offered to the credulous and ignorant in all countries, but more particularly
our own. Your Magazine, and the increasing taste for natural history,
will gradually diminish the number of such experiments, by causing them
to be detected and exposed in the first instance. Enough of the descrip*
tion of this new cheat is given by M. C. G., to enable a zoologist to deter-
mine it to be no other than a species of cuttle fish, probably ^Sepia offici-
nalis, disguised by the removal of its suckers, by the addition of a " spiral
tongue half a yard in length, armed with a pair of forceps at the end ! and
that of a very large spinner out of which the exhibiter had taken a web 1"
The bone in the species above indicated terminates posteriorly, but within
the exterior tunic, in a short spinous point, so that it would appear that this
also had been exaggerated by some addition. It will readily occur to those
acquainted with these animals, that the possessor of this treasure has either
wilfully or ignorantly mistaken the position of the mouth, which, as de-
scribed by M. C. G., is the opening of the sub-abdominal pouch, the place
of the real mouth being within the centre of the arms which crown the
head of the animal. — T. J. May 21. 1829.

Remarkable Spider. — Sir, I beg leave to send you the following account
of a remarkable spider, which I took some time ago, I believe about the end

Qitcries and Answers, !29l

of summer, on a furze bush. His abdomen exceeded in size a wren's egg,
was of an extremely bright yellow, and marked with brown something in
the shape of the marks on a diadem spider (^rauea diadbma). {fig. 78.)
After I had returned home, delighted 78

with my prize, I put him into a work-
box made of fine wire gauze, together
with large specimens of the before-
mentioned species, many of whom he
devoured. He was of great strength,
and had very long sharp jaws, but I had
not the curiosity to find out whether
they were venomous ; his legs were
long, and after his committing these
murders I was obliged to remove him
into a mouse cage, and subsequently into a box. I fed him daily on flies,
and allowed him to walk about after being fed. Notwithstanding all my
care, however, he gradually lost colour, grew thinner, and in about a month
he died. I, being ignorant at that time how to preserve spiders, ran him
through with a pin after the manner of other insects, and placed him in my
cabinet, where he now remains, but shrivelled to half size, and retaining
hardly any thing of his former beauty. Position of the eyes thus, : : : :

If any of your correspondents can tell me, through the medium of your
Magazine, to what species it belongs, and likewise a simple and easy
method of preserving spiders that have much colour, I should feel myself
much obliged. — C.Lambe. May 6. l?,29.

Spiders on Chestnut Timber. — In Wood's Letters of an Architect (vol. i.
p. 60.), it is stated that all the timbers in the cathedral of Rheims " are said
to be of chestnut, and the proof is, that no spiders are found upon it."
What is meant by this ? Will spiders not live on chestnut timber ? —
John Brown. Wester oft, near Huntingdon, April, 1829.

The Zeuzha aefscidi (Vol. I. p. 66.) has been supposed to feed only on
elms ; the specimen I have was taken from an ash. The moth lays its eggs
on the body of the tree during July or August ; the larvae, on exclusion
from the egg, feed at first on the bark of the tree, penetrating the solid wood
shortly after. I am not certain as to the length of time they feed, but I
have reason to believe it is not until the second summer the perfect insect
is excluded. My ideas for this I give : the egg is not hatched before August,
and the larva from it becomes torpid by November, and as it cannot in this
short time be full grown, it commences feeding the following spring, and per-
fects itself during the summer. Before winter it spins a web across the orifice
in the tree, and remains in this state until a month and a few days previous
to its appearance as a perfect insect, when it assumes the chrysalis form. Its
extrication from the tree is perfectly easy. In the chrysalis state every seg-
ment of the body has a row of sharp short spines, which enables it to shift
itself along the passage it has made by the motion of its body, the spines
acting as levers against the sides of the hole. By these means it soon
reaches the entrance from the exterior of the tree, which takes place a few

hours before the developement of the per-
fect insect. The drawing {fig.79.) is of the
natural size ; my specimen, being a female,
is large. It is furnished with powerful jaws,
and has a hard brown shield on the top of
the first segment of the body, within which
it can entirely withdraw its head. The last
segment of the body is furnished with a
similar hard shield. The drawing of the
wood is the full size. Another larva, found
at the same time, had been the cause of its own destruction, the tree on

292 Queries and A/iswers,

which it was feeding being so nearly divided, that the upper part had fallen
and crushed the caterpillar, a, the respiratory organs.

I shall be happy to furnish you with a drawing of the chrysalis, when it
enters that form, should this be sufficiently interesting. I am. Sir, &c. —
D. G. Kerridge. Ipswich^ March 3. 1829.

7%e Hessian Fly. — Sir, At Vol. I. p. 227., I observe some notice taken
of the Hessian fly, and I send this in hopes that you will insert it in an early
Number, where it may meet the eye of the reverend author, who will,
I trust, favour us with his remarks on the nature and mode of propagation
of a fly which has this year destroyed about one third of late sown wheat
all over this country.

As soon as the ear of wheat was fully developed, and before the flower
was expanded, a small yellow or sulphur-coloured caterpillar, about one
eighth of an inch in length, and thick in proportion, had taken its abode in
numbers where the young milky grain was forming, which they completely
devoured ; and the infested grains never showed the stamina, nor did the
anthers expand. In about twelve days they became torpid, and in six days
more they were transformed into small black flies, not half the size of those
figured by Mr. Kirby. On calm evenings these flies appeared in myriads on
the outside of the ear, but always sheltered themselves from the sun*s rays
amongst the husks ; they existed about two weeks in the fly state and then
disappeared, but have, in all likelihood, left the rudiments of a future gene-
ration. This is the second year that the same destructive insect has proved
hurtful to the wheat crops in this country. It will be obliging if Mr. Kirby,
or any of your scientific correspondents, will, through the medium of your
Magazine, inform us where they think the eggs are likely to be deposited.
Can it be in the downy end of the grain of wheat ? Is it likely that these
eggs will continue in the future plant, till the ear is again protruded, and
then come into life, or how are we to account for their existence at that
late period of the season, without appearing earlier ? When once its his-,
tory is properly known (which in the present instance can only be disco-
vered by analogy), means may be judiciously employed for its extermination.
I am. Sir, yours, &c. — A. G. Perthshire^ Sept A 828.

The Turnip Fly. — In Cunningham's work on New South Wales, it is
stated that the turnip fly has been introduced into that country by means
of turnip seed. Was it introduced in the e^g or larva state ? If either egg
or larva be found among the seed, can they be destroyed by immersion in
prepared fluid ? As this is a question of the greatest importance to the
agriculturist, it is to be hoped that some of your correspondents will give it
a careful consideration. — J. S. Thurgarton, Norfolk^ April 17. 1829.

LymncB'a ovata. {fig. 80. a.) — From the specimen in my collection, I
should consider this shell distinct from the H. piitris, or pere-
gra of authors, and certainly not the Helix piitris of Dr. Tur-
ton. This variety (of H. piitris) may be that which I have
found in tolerable abundance in the neighbourhood of Don-
caster, and which very much resembles the Lymnae'a ovata of
some authors ; but this last (L. ovata) is not described in his
Conchological Dictionary. The) terminal volutions are much
more covered by the body than those in the shell figured in the
Magazine of Natural History (Vol. I. p. 425. g). The line of
separation is not quite so oblique ; the outer lip is somewhat
compressed at the margin, and it is attached nearer to the upper
part of the body, where it is rather flattened; it is more tumid
than the peregra, and slightly striate longitudinally; and,
like the H. stagnalis, has a few flattened spaces, as if pieces had
been chipped off*. My largest specimen is somewhat more that six tenths
of an inch in length, and about four tenths in breadth. Having met only
with two specimens in this spot, I consider it more rare than L. piitris,

Queries and A?js'wers.

293

which is very common here. Lymnae'a frAgiiis Mag, Nat. Hist. (vol. i.
p. 425. a) corresponds with mine ; but, as I found them at Malmaison, near
Paris, could Lamarck have been ignorant of its habitat, and refer his speci-
men to Dr. Leach's ? Turbo wmscorum (Pupa 7»usc6rum) is much con-
fused, as justly remarked by Mr. Kenyon. I have several specimens marked
by different conchologists, and not two alike ; it would be desirable to re-
present all the varieties for the sake of comparison. P. wzuscorum,
P. chrysalis, and P. sexdentatus of Turton, are however found in
the same locality in this island, if I understand them as described in his
Gonchological Dictionary. Is not Voluta ringens of Turton the young of
Voluta refl^xa ? These are both found here together in inlets of the sea.
Turbo j'unlperi {fig. 80. h\ mentioned by authors as rare, is found in great
abundance on the oolitic hills of Gloucestershire, under dry tufts of grass ;
and, like most toothed shells, have the back of the outer lip visibly marked
by white opaque lines. — F. C. L. Guernsey^ April 20, 1829.

The curious Worm. — In answer to your correspondent W. W. (p. 105.),
I beg to say that his curious worm is a species of i^ilaria, which inhabits the
intestines of the larger beetles, but is occasionally to be found in ditches ^
or in moist earth. See Kirby and Spence's Entomology, vol. iv. p. 229.
I have taken this worm, from 3 to 4 in. in length, from the bowels of the
Carabus hortdnsis and C. madidus of Marsham ; and I have found the same
in wells, and once, like your correspondent, on the ground. — G. I.

Dr. Martins' s Discoveries. — I am anxious for a detail of the discoveries
of Dr. Martins. I have no doubt but there are discoveries yet to be made
on the structure of plants, that will some day make the knowledge of the
present day appear like child's play. — E. K. Feb. 7. 1829.

A Cedar and a Species of Wild Basil. — In Ashantee {Bowdich^s Mission,
p. 175.) there is a cedar, the leaves of which exude a considerable quantity
of liquid salt, which crystallises during the day. There is, also, in Chile, a
species of wild basil, which is every morning covered with saline globules,
resembling dew, which the natives use as salt. {Bticke's Beauties of
Nature.) Can any of your readers inform me of the systematic names of
these trees? — P. S. March 1829.

Starwort. — The plant described by Graham, in his British Georgics,
under the name of Starwort, which your Berwick 81
correspondent (Vol.1, p. 299.) cannot identify, is ma-
nifestly the Pingufcula vulgaris (/^. 81.), very com-
mon in upland marshes and in peat soil. — J. B.

The ancient Mallow. — Sir, in answer to the cour-
teous objections of your correspondent G. M. (p. 118.),
permit me to observe that one is already refuted by
himself, since he admits that we cannot positively
identify the ancient mallow, which was expressly my
own assertion; observing, at the time, that many
other plants were in the same predicament. He says,
" there is at least as much reason to believe that the
Malva, of Horace, is the same as the mallow with us,
as there is that it should be any other plant." I will
allow that there is much more reason to believe it our
mallow; but supposing that no doubt remained, not
only of the mallow of Horace being a malvaceous plant, but of its actual
inclusion in the genus ilfalva, still the plant would not be identified, the
species being so numerous.

It would be more difficult, perhaps, to determine whether the mallow^of
Horace be the same with that of the Old Testament, than whether it be
ours. If mallow be derived from the Latin, it expresses those emollient
qualities for which the Roman mallow was noted; if we trace it to
the Hebrew, the name expresses saltness, for which neither the Roman nor

29* Queries mid Answers.

the modern mallow is remarkable, but which is very observable in many
of the y4trfplices, to which, according to Bochart, some suppose the
scriptural mallow to belong.

It might, perhaps, have been more judicious to speak of the ancient mal-
low as an esculent in frequent use, than as an important one ; yet I can
scarcely admit that it is incorrect. I would willingly abide by the decision
of those wandering tribes who were reduced to the necessity of plucking
mallows from the bushes ; or of the Romans, who appear to have rated the
mallow much as we do the lettuce, as a cool and agreeable vegetable.
Evelyn says it was taken by the poets for all salads in general. " Pytha-
goras," continues he, " held malvce folium sanctissimum^ and we find Epi-
menides in Plato, at his mallow and asphodel ; andy indeed, it was of old
the first dish at table. The Romans had it also in AeYicuSy malvcB salubres
corpori,— approved by Galen and Dioscorides ;— namely, the garden mallow,
by others the wild, but I think both proper for the pot rather than sallet,"

Your correspondent observes that Sir J. E. Smith expressly states that
the malvaceous plants are not esculent; but a moment's reflection will
show him that if he takes this in its strictest sense, as including a// the plants
of that order, it argues rather against than in favour of Horace's mallow
being the same as our own, since, whether important or otherwise, the
Roman mallow was undoubtedly an esculent. Some of this order, how-
ever, are eaten ; the Jffibiscus escul^ntus for instance, which, according
to Martyn, affords a rich dish (the pods being boiled with butter), eaten
only in private families. Evelyn says that the " arborescent holy hocks "
are " by some recommended and eaten with oil and vinegar, and by others
with butter." He includes the curled mallow in his Acetaria. ^ ^ .

It is understood that the Chinese use some kind of mallow in their
food ; and " Prosper Alpinus informs us that a tree of the mallow kind is
eaten by the Egyptians." * — E. K.

LathrcB^a squamdria. — This curious plant is not uncommon near Rich-
mond, and is found in the thickest parts of the woods, generally at the roots
of the hazel. I never saw it growing truly parasitically but once, and thiat
was on the roots of an ash tree by the side of the river Swale, from which I
have seen fine specimens gathered : it even flowered once after the tree had
been cut down, and the root torn up ; but died in the winter. It was not
in any way different from other specimens gathered in this neighbourhood,
and was, in my opinion, truly parasitical. — L. E. 0. Richmond, Yorkshire,
March 4. 1829.

Blackdown Fossils sent to us by J. R.-— The following names of genera
and species of fossil shells, from Blackdown, Devonshire, figured in Mineral
Conchologt/ or elsewhere, have been supplied by Mr. Sowerby ; —

Venus plana, Mineral Conchology, tab. 20; Turbo rotundatus, 453;
Venu5 /aba, 567; Ammon2^e5 varicosus, 451; Turritella granulata, 565;
Turbo concinnus, 433; Cdrdium U\\\anim, 14; Cardium proboscldeum,
156; Cucullae'a oblonga, 286 ; Cucullae'a glabra, 67 ; CucuUae'a costellata,
447 ; Cucullae^a carinata, 207 ; Cucullae'a punctata, n. s. ; Venui' caperata,
518; Pectunculus umbonatus, 472; Trigonia aliformis, 215; ikfy tikis
ed^ntulus, 439; Inod^ramus concdntricus, 305; Nucula impr^ssa, 475;
Gryphae'a conica ; Corbula elegans, 572 ; Corbula gigantea, 209 ; Natica
canrena, Parkinson, t. 6. f. 2. ; Isocardia cuneata; Isocardia sp.?; (Solen
Sanguinolaria ; ^uccinum sp. ?

On the Blackdown Fossils, hy R. C. Taylor, Esq. — The quarries of Blacks
down have long been known to furnish the best whetstones, and the most
beautiful fossils, perhaps in all England. Whatever may be the merits of
the former, the latter come more especially and properly under our notice.
From this locality have been furnished more than 1 50 species of fossil Tes-

* Martyn's Millei*'s Gardener's Dictionary.

Queries and Anstvers, ^95^

tacea, and it is distinguished no less by the profusion of these remains, than
by the variety of their species, and the beauty of their preservation. Its
site is upon the western extremity of the green sand formation, where it is
prolonged or protruded considerably beyond its general hne of escarpment,
and forms extensive out-lying masses ; amongst which the elevated table-
land of Blackdown is conspicuous.

The fine state of preservation of
the fossils of this district is owing
to the subtitution of chalcedony for
the calcareous matter of the shells ;
by which singular process all the
delicacy and characters of the ori-
ginal are preserved, in a much less
destructible material j nothing being
requisite to complete the copy but
colour. Those with which we have
been favoured by our correspon-
dent belong to the following ge-
nera: Turrit^lla, A'rca, Cucullae'a,
Trigonia, Cardium, Pectunculus,
V^nu5, Corbula, Chama, Inoc^ramus,
and Ammomtes, with an Echinite.
They are the most prevailing of the
green sand fossils.

As it forms part of our plan to
illustrate the geology of our island
by catalogues and sketches of the
most characteristic forms in the re-
spective formations, it will perhaps
be advisable to postpone the draw- -^

ings of the Blackdown fossils, until they can be more appropriately intro-
duced in the course of our geological articles. Meanwhile, we figure one
of those bodies (^g. 82.) which are conjectured by our correspondent to be
fruit, but which, in fact, are zoophytes, originally bearing the name of Tulip
-<41cy6nia, and now placed under the genus Siphonia. Some interesting
illustrative figures of this zoophyte may be seen in Geol. Trans., vol. ii.

Mr. Parkinson describes it as a fossil animal, with a polymorphous body
supported by a stem proceeding from a fusiform or ramose root-like pe-
dicle ; the original substance spongious, and pierced by a bundle of tubes
derived from the pedicle, passing through the stem, then ramifying and ter-
minating on the surface of the body,

With the other fossils from Blackdown are obscure spongiform spherical
bodies, which must have existed in great abundance at the same time with
the Testacea.

There are some other varieties of zoophytes, and numerous shells, besides
those now furnished, which occur in this rich depository of organic remains.
Contributions like these are highly estimated ; they enlarge our acquaint-
ance with the products of diiFerent districts, and will, moreover, much faci-
litate the object we have in view of furnishing an outline of English geology,
derived, as much as possible, from original sources.

We cannot expect collectors to contribute specimens of rarity or of value,
but there are districts where they are so readily attainable, that the geolo-
gical student would often find it preferable to furnish originals, as in the
present instance, than the drawings with which we have been favoured. —

R. a T,

The Packet of Fossils sent by Samuel Tyssen, Esq., of Narborough Hall,
Norfolk, are, with one or two exceptions, casts of chalk fossils in flint, and
have apparently been collected from the surface of the soil, or from the loose

2'96

Queries and Answers.

assemblage of disturl>ed and shattered flints which covers, in a great measure,
the entire superficial area of the chalk formation of this country.

The shells consist chiefly of Inoc^rami, of the species before figured and
described at page 69. in Volume I. of this work (fig. 39 and 40.). They often
occur in groups, and a single flint may be seen marked with the distorted
casts and impressions of a numerous assemblage of these Testacea, without
any visible traces of their shells remaining. Thus, in one of Mr. Tyssen's
specimens, we perceive sixteen or' eighteen Inoc^rami. These surround the
cast of an Echinus, iS'patangus (c(5r marinum), also distorted.

Another flint exhibits the cast of a single tubercle of a mammillated
echinite, of the genus Cidaris. Similar detached impressions are common
on fragments of flint, but entire siliceous specimens of the Cidaris are less
abundant, particularly in Norfolk. There is also a small plicated Terre-
brdtula of a species rather abundant
in chalk. — ii. C. T.

The species from the chalk itself
are as follows : — Radiata : C6nu-
lus albogal^rus Mantel, t. 17.;
Galerites ? Lamarck ; Conulus
(Galerites) Rotula Brong. Acepha-
lous Mollusca: Inoc^ramus inter-
m^ius, n. s. {fig. 85. a) Mm. Con.
t. 440., and its hinge {b) ; Gryphae'a
globosa Min. Con. t. 392.; Terre-
bratula carnea Min. Con. t. 15. one
of the same cast in flint ; Terre-
brdtula obliqua Min. Con. t. 277.
— J.D.C.S.

Minute Objects on Flints. —
Some time about last midsummer,
walking on the Precinct Meadows,
I was struck with the appearance
of the flints and other hard sub-
stances being partially covered with
a white powder, particularly in
the crevices. I found this powder
fixed, and, on further examin-
ation with a lens, that they must be either minute plants of the order
Cryptogamia, or the nidi of insects. I also found them on the high ground
on the opposite side of the river. The annexed sketch {fig. 84.) is from

84

a flint In my possession, which shall be forwarded if requested. The objects
appear to be in the same state as when I first brought them home. The
portion of the flint is one tenth of an inch in length, and the sketch is
magnified thirty times. The disks of the objects are finely radiated, and
two of them {a b) are globular. An explanation will much oblige. Sir,
yours, &c. — Samuel Woodward. Diana Square , Norwich y Aprils. 1829.

I have ever considered these to be the eggs of a red J'carus, which
always accompanies them, as far as I have observed, J, D. C. S.

Queries and Answers, 297

Limestone frovi Coral Bocks. — It is well known that the Bermudas, or
Somers Isles, are surrounded by innumerable coral rocks. On examining
the limestone of which these islands are principally composed, I am inclined
to think it has been formed by the coral being raised above the surface of
the sea (for the coral insect works no higher) by some convulsion. In sup-
port of this, I have observed many appearances of decomposing coral in the
limestone, although it generally resembles the oolite or roestone of Port-
land, &c., but with larger grains. Besides this, I have now by me some
shells of the Miirex and Trochus genera taken from this rock, the former
with the colour as perfect as if recently brought from the sea shore. In
this same stratum I also noticed the bones of a whale, on the east side of
Ireland's Island (one of the Bermudas). The limestone of Barbadoes bears
similar marks of coral, and seems, in common with that of Bermuda and
other parts, to be nothing more than the coral rock and coral sand raised
from the sea. — W. H., R.N. Yeovil, April 22. 1829.

A Fossil like a broken Nut. — Some time since, in making a col-
lection of fossils from the inferior oolite in this neighbourhood, I
found a specimen having all the appearance of a broken nut
{Jig. 85.) with the kernel quite perfect. From its habitat (being
amidst a great variety of shells), I conclude it must be a marine
production, but what it is I should much wish to know. It is
true, the same quarry whence it was taken contains a great deal
of petrified wood, but its presence is almost as great an enigma to
me as the nut itself. — Id.

The blue Colour of the Sea. — Sir, I remember once to have noticed the
last ray of the setting sun, on a fine calm evening at sea, which was of a
bright emerald green. I believe the fact is noticed by Lord Byron, in some
of his works. Does not this prove the blue colour of the sea, in the same
way that the green appearance sometimes observable on each side of the
setting sun may be accounted for by knowing that his golden rays intervene
between us and the colour of the blue sky beyond? — Id.

A Corn Spring. — Sir, My attention has lately been called to a corn
spring in this parish. L mean a spring which is supposed to indicate, by its
flowing, a rise in the price of corn. Such, I believe, have been noticed in
many other places ; in particular, one other of a similar kind I have heard
of in the neighbourhood of Atherstone in this county. The Dudley's spring
(for such is the name by which the one here is known) has long been held
in estimation among the lower orders for foretelling, as they believe, the
dearness of corn ; and many old people, I am told, have been in the habit
of watching its operations, and placing much faith in them. The spring, I
should state, is a land spring, which occasionally oozing out of a low boggy
corner of a field, flows with a considerable rill down the ditch which sepa-
rates this parish from the adjoining parish of Corley. It is often quite dry,
flowing periodically only, and at long and uncertain intervals. My personal
knowledge of this phenomenon is only of very recent date, as I have never
visited the actual spot till this summer, when the spring was flowing ; I can,
therefore, only speak from report of the people in its more immediate vici-
nity. From them I learn that the spring commenced flowing about the
middle of May last, after having been dry for about two years. On the last
occasion of its flowing, more than two years since, they acknowledge that
the spring did not maintain its prophetic character, as no rise in the price
of corn ensued. The most remarkable circumstance relating to this spring
(if true, as I am informed) is, that its operations do not appear to depend
on the seasons, but that it is often known to flow in a very dry season, and
again to be dry in a very wet one. This account, however, is hardly credible,
as there can be little doubt, I think, that the flowing of the spring must
depend, if not directly, remotely at least, on the quantity of rain that falls ;
Vol. II. — No. 8. x

^g Retrospective Criticism.

an opinion which derives much confirmation from the circumstance of the
spring having ceased to flow during the last two years of unusual drought,
and breaking out again in May of the present year, after the copious and
heavy rains which fell in the spring. White, in his History of Selborne^
speaking of the wet autumn and winter of 1 773, says that " the land springs,
which we call lavatits, break out much on the downs of Sussex, Hampshire,
and Wiltshire. The country people say, when the lavants rise corn will
always be dear ; meaning that when the earth is so glutted with water as to
send forth springs on the downs and uplands, that the corn vales must be
drowned : and so it has proved for these ten or eleven years past. For
land springs have never obtained more since the memory of man than during
that period ; nor has there been known a greater scarcity of all sorts of
grain, considering the great improvements of modern husbandry.*' (See
Let. 19. to Hon. D. Harrington.) It is an acknowledged fact, that a dry
season is most favourable to the produce of corn in this country, to say no-
thing of the getting in of the harvest. There are several old proverbs to
this effect, such as, " Drought never bred dearth in England : '* and,

" When the sand doth feed the clay (which is in a wet summer),
England, woe and well-a-day !
But when the clay doth feed the sand (which is in a dry summer),
Then it is well with England." {Ray's Proverbs, )

Now, this being the case, and the flowing of the land springs depending, as
it should seem it certainly must do, on the quantity of rain that falls, it is
easy to perceive how these corn springs, as they are called, came to have
attributed to them a character for foretelling a dearness of corn. It would
be worth while, however, to watch their operations more minutely ; and it
is in the hope that some intelligent persons, who have the opportunity, may
be induced to do so, that I have now called your attention to the subject.

The Dudley's spring is still flowing (Sept. 13.) as copiously as when I
visited the spot two months ago. Yours, &c. — W. T. Bree. Allesley Rectory y
Sept. 20. 1828.

Laudanum, a species of dew. — Laudanum is procured in a curious man-
ner, in some parts of the fsle of Cyprus. It is a species of dew, which falls
during the evening and night upon plants resembling sage, the flowers of
which are like those of the eglantine. Before the sun rises, flocks of goats
are driven into the field, and the laudanum fastens on their beards, whence
it is taken. It is of a viscous nature, and, collected in this manner, is purer
than that which adheres to the plants; because these plants are subject to
being covered with dust during the day. {Ruche's Beauties of Nature.)
Can any of your readers explain this ? — R. S. March^ 1829.

Art. X. Retrospective Criticism.

Accentuation of Names. — Sir, I never take up your Magazine of Natural
History, but its multifarious contents bring before my mind the imaginary
picture of Horace, "undique collatis membris." * I say this with reference
only to the sources of your information : the consummation of the poet's
supposition, " ut nee pes nee caput uni reddatur formae," -f will by no
means attach to your work; for I am persuaded that it will hereafter

* " Members collected from all parts."

f " That neither foot nor head can be referred to the same form."

Retrospective Criticism. 29^

exhibit a picture of truth in due symmetry and proper proportion. There
are a few great artists ah*eady employed about the head, more about the body,
and a still greater number about the limbs. I, too, would have a share in so
goodly a work, but I am an artist of the humblest class. I can offer only
the ** great toe of the assembly,'' and if that be not in proportion, I beseech
you to reject it and suffer it not to deform your picture.

You have made the penultimate syllables of the words Chrysomela and
Cicindela long : and Ainsworth, quoting from Pliny, has done the same.
The poet. Gray, has adopted a different accentuation, as you will perceive
by the subjoined lines, which are a portion of his verses commemorative of
the Linnean Orders and Genera: —

" Chrysomela inflexa loricae stringitur or^.
Maxilla exserta est oculoque Cicindela grandi.'*

Gray was a classical scholar, and would not, I conceive, accentuate a
word without sufficient authority. But where is his authority in the present
instance? In the whole nomenclature of entomology, no words are more va-
riously pronounced than these two now before us : and I must confess that,
if Chrysomela be the correct accentuation, I am utterly unable to discover
any thing in its derivation applicable to the insect to which it is assigned.

In page 160. you have written elytra, and in page 425. Elytra. I presume
that, prosodically, it may be either elytra or elytra ; but in no case can it
be elytra. Gray has written elytra. I prefer your former pronunciation,
because it is, to my ear, more euphonic.

In one case I find prodromus ; in another, through inadvertence I sup-
pose, prodromus. I do not make these remarks, Sir, from any fastidious
feeling, but for the purpose of information ; and, more particularly, to show
the necessity of annexing to the end of each volume of your work a
correct accentuation of the terms therein employed. I am. Sir, &c.
— J. S. Thurgarton^ Norfolk, April 17. 1829. [Our correspondent's
other communications are inserted in their proper places.]

Errata. — Page 107. line 16. from the top,/or " the fossils (^^5. 25. and
^6.\" read " the fossils (/g5. 24. and 25.)." Page 162. line 9. for "fifty,"
read " forty." Page 169. line 22, for " annona," read " ananna. "

Ascent of the Aerial Spider. — Sir, Mr. Blackwall's letter in your Ma-
gazine (p. 116.) leaves this question exactly as it was. It is true he is
pleased to deal in invective and complaint ; but this has nothing to do with
the case. Your correspondent need not be told that the council of no
scientific society hold themselves responsible for the papers that may
appear in their published Transactions ; the entire onus rests on the indi-
vidual authors of the respective papers ; nay, more, as in the case of the
Royal and Horticultural Societies and others, an express printed notice to
that effect is prefixed to each volume. An author may gain sufficient credit
with the council of any society, to warrant the publication of his sentiments
or opinions, however erroneous they may be ultimately found to be. On
such promulgation, these published opinions become public property, and
they may be sifted and tried before that tribunal. If Mr. Blackwall finds
himself unable to contest the question single-handed, I cannot concede to
him the right of calling into his aid the coup de main of the council of the
Linnean Society, the individual members of which I highly respect, and
feel assured they will not be so unwise as to wage an indiscreet war against
any one contending for the principles of truth. The opinions sustained in
that paper are the opinions, surely, of Mr. Blackwall, and not of the coun-
cil of the Linnean Society, or, if otherwise, how could Mr. Blackwall lend
his name to a paper which did not belong to him. I shall not yield in my
respect for the Linnean Society to him or any one, and am only surprised,

X 2

fSGO Retros2iective Criticism,

■he should wish to shield his paper behind a screen, when he alone is re-
sponsible for the acts of his own offspring.

Mr. Blackwall assures us, he was unacquainted with Gay Lussac's ac-
count of the ascent of the soap bubble, and we have a right to believe his
statement ; the principle, though he confesses it, has not novelty to recom-
- mend it ; he applies it to the ascent of the spider, exactly as that eminent
philosopher applied it to the soap bubble, and I must really leave Mr.
Blackwall to manage the tackling of his composition of forces, as best he
may. To me at leasts it seems sadly complicated and confused.

Mr. Blackwall seems really to consider my observations as almost per-
sonal against himself; but I can assure him that this is not even possible,
since I never even met with his name previously to seeing it in the TranS'
actions of the Linnean Society ^ in a paper on the ascent of the spider which
purports to bear his name.

Because I did not mention the temperature within and without, ergo I
had not taken it, and had not ascertained the direction of the current.
Now, Mr. Blackwall may have, if he presses for it, all the benefit that may
arise from his illogical conclusion.

It seems that Mr. Blackwall did not mean to canvass the electrical aip-
titude o^ the mr as to its positive or negative relations; but only that the
aeronautic spider is not particularly select in the quantity or intensity that
may abound.

As Mr. Blackwall is very sensitive about his name being introduced into a
question which has, or ought to have, truth for its aim and object, he should
have been a little more cautious in rejecting the opinions of those who
have investigated the subject with as much care as himself; and I must
confess that, in that very memoir, I can perceive but little courtesy ex-
hibited toward his fellow-labourers in the delightful field of natural history,
and in the case of those who have canvassed the subject.

I have " committed" my opinions to the same test which must be ap-
plied in the case of his asserted facts; by that standard of appeal we
must both submit to be judged, and receive our acquittal or condemnation
accordingly, and it is needless for either him or me to endeavour to fly off at
a_tangent. I merely repeat that my experiments have been numerous and
diversified, and all those who know me will concede to me the merit of an
indefatigable, laborious, and careful experimenter ; and when that volume
is reprinted I shall be able to adduce a multitude of facts more.

Last autumn I let go an aeronautic spider, together with some thistle^
down, simultaneously from the same spot in the open air. They moved in
exactly contrary directions ! I must leave the phenomenon with Mr.
Blackwall, to be adjusted by the " laws of compound forces." I, however,
did not ascertain the temperature. I remain, Sir, yours, &c. — J. Murray,

The Lump attached to the Throat of the Hare. (Vol. I. p. 216.) — Sir, In
confirmation of the opinion which I was led to form in my communication
to you respecting the hare, that the lump attached to its throat was most pro-
bably caused by a diseased state of some of the glands, and was not an original
deformity from its birth, I had the good fortune to meet with the following
parallel case in one of the feathered tribe, a common hen (Phasianus Gallus),
and as it appears to be a novel circumstance, and may assist the mind in
forming a just conclusion as to the cause of that singular appearance, I hope
I may secure for the following description of it, a place in the next Num-
ber of your Magazine : — Happening to find the hen just as she was dying,
and perceiving that she was expiring from suffocation,! felt curious to ascer-
tain the immediate cause by which her breathing was affected ; and my
curiosity was not a little increased by the person who had the charge of her
informing me, in answer to my queries, that she had a large lump in her craw.
This lump I at first supposed to have been occasioned by swallowing some-

Retrospective Critzdstn, 301

thing which she could not digest,and that it had probably brought on swelling
and inflammation; but on dissecting her, and cutting through the outer skin
of the throat, I was much surprised to find that though the lump occupied
the usual situation of the craw, it was in no way connected with it or the
oesophagus, but was entirely confined to the trachea which it quite encom-
passed, and which it had, by the portion of it intervening between it and
the neck, forced out of its natural situation. The lump, which was com-
posed of cellular substance, like the one* on the hare, was quite round,
about six inches in circumference, and presented no appearance of inflam-
mation ; it encircled the trachea immediately above its entrance under the
breast bone. From its great size, and from its being retained in a fixed
position by the windpipe, it had forced the craw quite to one side of the
neck, and so entirely occupied the space allotted by nature to that necessary
organ, that it could hold but a very small portion of food. The lump was, in
every respect, similar to tiie one on the hare; except that from the upright
position of the neck, and from its entirely surrounding the trachea, it was
retained by it in a fixed position, and by that means prevented from becom-
ing pendulous by its own weight as with the hare. The pressure, occa-
sioned by the lump and its confined position, caused her death by producing
strangulation of the trachea. It is, however, I think, probable, that it
would soon have ulcerated, as I found an effusion of viscid brown matter
nearly in the centre of it. As the hen presented no unusual appearance
until lately, and as she was an old one, I think it cannot have arisen from an
original malformation ; it must, therefore, have been caused by some dis-
ease, and as there was not the slightest appearance of inflammation, or that
callosity which is, I believe, always attendant upon cancer, and as the lump
on her and the hare so exactly correspond with the description and position
of what is termed goitre in the human species, I am very much disposed to
consider them similar. As I am not aware of this disease having ever been
ascertained in the brute species, I feel some distrust in coming to this con-
clusion; but should it be correct, it might throw some light on that disease,
and would, I think, satifactorily disprove the vulgar idea that it is caused
by drinking snow water. Trusting, therefore, that the consideration of this
subject, though it may appear trivial to many of your readers, will not be
found unworthy of the attention of some who are more competent than
myself to give an opinion on the subject, I remain, &c. — John V. Stewart.
Ards House, Dunfanaghy, SejJt. 29. 1828.

The Pygmy Bison. — Had you inserted my article en the Pygmy Bison
four months ago, you might have saved many individuals the mortification
of being humbugged by another attempt of the same individual to appro-
priate some of their cash to his own use, by such unfair means as the
exhibition of his Tarantula, or Sea Spider. — V. May 23. 1829.

Birds presented to the Hull Literary and Philosophical Society. — Your
informant (Vol.1, p. 289.) has committed an error in describing the birds
I lately presented to the Society. They were not a male and female
Rallus aquaticus, but S'turnus Cinclus (or, as 1 conceive it should be,
" cinctus/* though all the authors I have consulted write Cfnclus, which is
a word of which I can make nothing). The Rallus aquaticus, of which you
have given us an excellent engraving, was two or three years ago presented
to the Institution by my nephew, Mr. B. B. Thompson, who shot it in this
neighbourhood. 1 wish you would give us a good likeness of Sturnus
Cinclus, for I do not know of one ; Bewick's specimen, though incorrect,
is the best I have seen. I do not believe the story of its walking on the
bottom of the beds of rivers, though doubtless it dives with ease. The
authors who mention this seem to have followed each other ; and the whole
appears to rest upon the testimony of Mr. Herbert, who wrote the letter on
■ the subject which M. Buffon has inserted in his work on birds. »S'turnus

X 3

802 Retrospective Criticism.

dnclus, though a shy bird, is to be found by streams on the moors of the
north of England ; and if you could induce any who have an opportunity to
favour yoti with observations on its habits, so as either to confirm or con-
tradict this supposed habit of walking on the bottom of streams, I think it
would be useful. — Thomas Thompson. Hully Sept. 9. 1828.

The Solitary Snipe. — The beak of the solitary snipe (fig. 34. p. 147.) is
made as long as that of the woodcock and common snipe, if not longer,,
whereas it is invariably shorter. Having seen many hundreds of those birds
abroad, I have almost always found their beaks to be about [the dimensions
destroyed by the wafer] of an inch shorter than those of the woodcock or
common snipe. — Your constant Reader. June 5. 1829.

Mountain Cock. — Has not J. M. made some confusion (Vol. I. p. 296.)
in speaking of the birds which, at a particular season, form the im-
mediate objects of the sportsman's attention. He mentions moorcock,
ptarmigan, heathcock, and mountain-cock. If we except the Capucaila,
or wood-grouse (Tetrao Urogallus), which, I believe, has long been extinct
in this island, I am not aware that there are more than three other indi-
genous species of grouse, viz. the blackgame, or heathcock {T.Titnx);
the red-game, or moorcock (T. scoticus), and the ptarmigan {T. iagopus).
It is not apparent, therefore, to what species the name of mountain-cock
applies. Should it not be entirely omitted? — B. Coventry, Sept. 5. 1828.

Rallus aqudticus. — One complaint more, and I have done. In your
figure of Rallus aquaticus (Vol. I. p. 289.), the bill is made straight at the
apex, whereas it should have been slightly curved downwards. The bird
also is in too erect a posture, and the figure entirely fails of expressing the
character of the bird so admirably represented by Bewick. — Id.

Certain little Moths. — In the Magazine of Natural History (Vol. I.
p. 295.), speaking of the appearance of certain little moths, the larvae of
which had been so destructive to the leaves of plants, J. M. says, " they
prove to be the Phalae'na Pyralis of Linnaeus." I am at a loss to know
what insect is meant by this. Pyralis is not the specific name of any Lin-
nean species, but is employed by that naturalist to distinguish a family or
subdivision of his genus Phalae'na, under which he placed about eighteen
species in his Systema Natures : it is now adopted as a regular generic name
for that particular family of moths. From J. M.'s account of the insects
in question, I should suppose that they could not even belong to the genus
Pyralis at all, but rather to that of Tortrix or TYnea. — Id.

Tarsus of Chlanius vestitus, — Sir, Having met with a curious formation
in the tarsus of a specimen of Chlanius vestitus, I send you the following
account of it : — By the accompanying figure {Jig. 86.) you will see that
the fourth joint of the tarsus, instead of being straight, is bent, 86
and has a projection from one side of the base, upon which is
fixed what appears to be a supernumerary joint of a very different
shape from the other joint, and having a depression in the middle,
as if for the articulation of a terminal joint. This supernumerary
joint was perfectly visible when the insect was in a fresh state. All
the other legs of this insect were formed in the usual manner. The
tarsus thus affected is the intermediate one on the left side. To some the
noticing of so minute a fact as the above may appear ridiculous ; but it
must be considered that insects having a horny covering to their bodies,
and casting their skin many times before coming to perfection, are less
likely to be deformed than most other animals. I therefore consider a
variation so great as the above worthy of obsei*vation. I remain, Sir, &c.
— Cacale. Camhridge, April \Q. 1829.

Zoological Researches. — In noticing the first number of my Zoological
Researches and Illustrations, p. 51., of your Second Volume, the manner in
which your critique is worded seems likely to deprive me of the merit of

Retrospective Criticism, SOS

the discovery I was fortunate enough to make of the metamorphosis in the
Crustacea : thus you state that I " had the satisfaction of witnessing the
metamorphosis j^rs^ described by the Dutch naturalist Slabber;" now if you
will take the trouble of reperusing my first Memoir, p. 8, and of inspecting
Slabber's two figures copied into my first plate (fig. 1. a and 1. b,) you will
readily perceive that, allowing Slabber to have seen what he describes, it is,
at most, a change from one form of a natatory crustaceous animal into
another natatory form wholly unknown, except to Slabber himself, and is
hence a change which could never authorise an idea of the Dec^poda
undergoing metamorphosis. As you may observe, I doubt altogether that
Slabber witnessed my change, and shall shortly show what his fig. 1. b really
is, this constituting one of the many discoveries I have more lately made.
I should probably have published this in my next Number, but that I have
a still more interesting memoir on the Cirripedes prepared for it, which
will develope mysteries still more unexpected and important than the dis-
covery of the metamorphosis in the Decapodous Macroura. — J. V. Thom-
son, ilfrt^ 21. 1829.

A singular Nidus. — I possess one of the same singular species of nidus
as that mentioned by your correspondent (p. 104.). I, however, doubt its
belonging to an aquatic insect, as mine was found by a friend (a botanist) in
a hedge in a lane, and is attached to a small twig of the blackthorn. I
have never met with it myself, although I am in the constant habit of
exploring the countrj', at every season of the year, for insects and shells. —
Charles Blomen. Teignmouth, Devonshi7'e, Aprils 1829.

Bulimiis acutus and Helix virgata
(fig. 40. p. 150.) were not distinguished
in a part of our impression; the cut is
therefore repeated (^g.S 7.); the snail ^^-z
(Helix virgata) being marked^, and the "^^^^^
Bulimus a. '^C

British Land and Fresh-water Shells. —
Sir, I will thank you to make the following alterations in my paper on
British Shells (Vol. I. p. 424.) : —

After the observations on Lymnae^a fragilis add, " Is this shell the imma-
ture L. stagnalis, or a variety of it? I have specimens of a Lymnae'a sent
to me as the L. stagnalis, agreeing with Montagu's figure 7. plate 16., which
is referred to as a representation of L. fragilis. I find little difference in
the descriptions and figures, except in size."

After those on Helix fusca add, " The Helix subruf^scens of Fleming is
only the young of this species, according to the observations of W. Bean,
Esq., of Scarborough."

After those on H. carthusianella add, " The specimens labelled H. car-
thusianella in the Manchester Museum, however, are much less than either
Draparnaud's figure or our English shell."

After those on H. ruf^scens add, " Since writing the above, I have
observed in the Manchester Museum this shell designated as the Helix
cornea. I believe the label is in the handwriting of W. Svyainson, Esq.,
but may have possibly been subsequently misplaced ; for certainly our Eng-
lish shell differs very materially fiom the H. cornea of Draparnaud, to
whose figure Lamarck refers." Yours, &c. — Joseph Kenyon.

Spinning Slugs (p. 69.)- — It is long since this supposed species of slug has
been described. On very many occasions have I observed the descent of
the common grey and common green-bellied slug from trees and bushes, but
without ever having reason to suspect that there was a distinct species,
having the property of spinning a web. The fact is, that any small snail,
in good health, can let itself down from almost any height to the ground,,
by the tenacity of the slime exuded retromissively from the pores of
the belly. The same muscular motion of the belly, exerted on givmg

X 4

Si04 lietrbspedive Criticism.

motion to this footless animal on the ground (and by which their slow and
uniform progress is made), is also exercised in the air ; adding thereby to
the length of the suspending line till they reach the ground. Their
descent in this manner is an accident, not a purpose, and the doubts of your
valuable correspondent respecting them are, therefore, perfectly just and
rational. — M.

The Fruit of the Artocarpus integrif alia. -^ In the Magazine of Natural
History (Vol. 1. p. 274.), quoting from the Botanical Magazine for July, it is
stated that the fruit of the entire-leaved bread-fruit (Artocarpus integrifolia)
is a pod or pericarp. Having seen and eaten the fruit in its native counti*y,
I rather suspect there is some error here. If the pine-apple (Bromeha), or
the cones of the Scotch pine, can be called a pod, then the Botanical Maga-
zine is correct. I very well remember having, in partaking of it, begun at the
base, and pulling off, one after another, the subdivisions of the fruit. Each
of these divisions contains a seed the size and shape of an almond, enclosed
in a thin shell or membrane. The membrane is covered with a soft yel-
lowish pulp, which is the eatable part. The centre of this aggregated,
fruit is occupied by a prolonged receptacle, to which all the subdivisions are
fixed in the manner of a strobile, and the interstices are filled up by the
eatable pulp. I never saw the seeds eaten in India ; but I have no doubt
they may be used like chestnuts. — J. M.

iyitilldiia tessellata. — Your correspondent D. S. announces (Vol.1.
p. 289.) that he saw " Fritillkria tessellata very abundant in some meadows
near Harleston, Norfolk." I do notfind any species of Fritillaria in bota-
nical works under that name, a name certainly not inapplicable to F. me-
leagris, which, I believe, is the only species indigenous to this country, and
which is well represented by the plate annexed to p. 289., under the name
of F. tessellata. F. weleagris is a rare, or at least a very local, plant, but
it occurs plentifully near Oxford both with purple and with white flowers,
particularly in the meadows near Ifley, in Christ-Church Meadow, and most
abundantly in Magdalen Meadow. — W. T. Bree. Allesley Rectory.

Our correspondent D. S. has adopted the name of R. A. Salisbury, in
Gray's Natural Arrangement of British Plants. — Cond.

The Weather, the Winds, and falling Stars. — I am happy to find occa-
sional remarks on meteorology in your Magazine. It is a study yet in its
infancy, but, I doubt not, will, in common with the many branches of
natural history your publication embraces, be greatly perfected by a col-
lection of facts and observations. I know very little of the theory of this
science, but I believe the direction of the wind, and, consequently, the
weather, both with us as well as in the southern hemisphere, depend on
the degree of heat between the tropics. With respect to judging of the
weather, 1 know no better criterion than that which our Saviour has given
us : " When it is evening ye say it will be fair weather, for the sky is red ;
and, in the morning, it will be foul weather to-day, for the sky is red and
louring." Doubtless, this has been noticed by almost every one, as well as
the two other observations, that the livid appearance of the sun's rays bears
witness to the moist state of the atmosphere, and that if it sets in dense
clouds which reach below the horizon, these clouds will assuredly come up
with a westerly wind on the morrow, accompanied by rain. As to any
indication of the direction the wind may assume, from the appearance of
the higher clouds, I think many mistakes have arisen from not making suf-
ficient allowance for the different currents of air in the atmosphere. I have
no doubt but the direction of the current might be ascertained by these
clouds ; but this same current may never reach us at all below. I am apt,
however, to draw an inference quite the contrary to Mr. J. Rennie (see
his Observations on the Modification of Clouds called Wind Reels, Vol. I.
p. 454.), for I have noticed the direction of the wind to lie commonly at
right angles with the greatest diameter of the cloud ; and this is borne out

Biography : — John Templeton, Esq, 305

by the fact, that the clouds which arise successively in gales of wind, bring-
ing with them heavy squalls and slight rain, assume a line which is at right
angles with the wind. Neither do I allow the correctness of his remark,
p. 456. (although it does not affect his argument in attempting to prove the
influence of terrestrial magnetism), that " if the wind were the sole agent
in determining their forms and positions, they ought always to stream in
the direction^of its current, as we see is uniformly the case in the analogous
instance of smoke." This is doubtless the case when any vapour issues from
an aperture, like smoke from a chimney ; but it soon begins to assume the
contrary form, and, when finally detached from its source, it takes a position
with respect to the wind like the clouds before mentioned, as maybe observed
in the distance, after a steamer has passed, leaving a dark volume behind her.
There are two other observations I have made, which I would men-
tion, although not immediately connected with the preceding remarks.
The first is, that the meteors commonly called falling stars are so much
lower between the tropics than with us, that I have frequently known
them to pass close to the masts of a vessel, and, bursting with a noise
like the firing of a pistol, emit a number of brilliant blue sparks. The
second is, that in long calms at sea, which sometimes, in certain latitudes,
are of several weeks' duration, the clouds appear heaped one on the other,
like mountains of snow, all round the horizon ; whilst, in the zenith, the
clear blue sky is as unsullied by a cloud as the watery mirror below is by a
wave. I remember once a bucket was thrown into the sea, and so per-
fect was the calm that, during three days, we were not separated from it a
stone's cast ; and actually, the third day, it struck against the very part of
the ship whence it was thrown. — W. H.^ R. iV. Yeovil^ April 22, 1829.

Art. XI. Biography,

Memoir of the late John Templeton, Esq., forming part of the Anniversary
Address delivered on the 24th of May, 1827, to the Belfast Natural
History Society, by the Rev. Thomas D. Hincks, M.R.I.A. &c., Presi-.
dent of that Society. Communicated by Dr. Drummond.

{Concluded from Vol. I. p. 406.)

In the year 1802, Mr. Templeton sent a new rose, which he had dis-
covered in 1795 or 1796, in the neighbourhood of Belfast, and after-
wards found in other parts of the north, to the Dublin Society, which
he named ^osa hibernica, but which was by many called the Templeton
rose. This Society had offered a reward of 5 guineas for the discovery
of new native plants, limiting the whole sum to 20 guineas. Mr. Tem-
pleton was of course adjudged this small sum, which has from some
mistake been called 50/., and spoken of as a liberal premium, by Sir J.
E. Smith, in different publications where he had occasion to mention
it. A similar prize was obtained by Dr. Scott, Professor of Botany to
Trinity College, Dublin, and by Dr. Wade, Professor of Botany to the
Dublin Society, for some new mosses; but, either from the fluctuation
attendant on the proceedings of a body constituted like the Dublin Society,
or from a supposition that the end of offering the reward was sufficiently
attained by directing the attention of botanists to discovery, the premium
was dropped after 1803. Had it been continued, Mr. Templeton would
have had an opportunity of again claiming it, not only for the Orobanche
rubra which he first discovered on Cave Hill in 1 805, and which has since
been found on basaltic rocks in other parts of the country and in Scotland,

506 Biograj^hy : — Jo/m Templetony Esq.

but also for a number of cryptogamic plants, which he communicated to
such friends as were engaged in botanical pursuits. His application for
the premium for his rose, opened a correspondence with General Vallancey,
one of the vice-presidents, and for many years the most active manager of
the Dublin Society. In the published letter, after the description of the
rose, there are some remarks on specimens of wood he had sent to the
General, particularly the locust tree of North America, and the chestnut.
In other letters he gave the General accounts of antiquities in the north,
especially of the Giant's Ring, which he measured for him. Of Gen. Vallancey
Mr. Templeton appears to have had a high opinion ; and the intercourse I
had with the General during many years, and the kind attention I expe-
rienced from him, whilst acting for the Cork Institution, enable me to say
that this opinion was well founded. Those who only knew the General as
an antiquary, were apt to ridicule what they regarded as extravagant in his
opinions ; but whatever errors any may suppose him to have fallen into on
this subject, he was a well-informed and amiable man, anxious to promote
the advancement of knowledge, and politely attentive, at the Society, to
every person engaged in the pursuit of it.

In 1 804, Dawson Turner, Esq., of Yarmouth, published MtLscologice Hib^r-
nicee Spicilegiwn, in which he acknowledges his obligations to Mr. Temple-
ton, in conjunction with Drs. Scott and Stokes. Of the former, Mr. Turner
says that he has investigated the north of Ireland with indefatigable labour
(labore improbo inclagavit), characterising it as a country mountainous and
rich in the productions of nature. He also intimated, that from Mr. Temple-
ton a Flora Hibernica was to be expected. In the same year, Dr.Wade pub-
lished his PldntcB raribres in Hib&nia inv^ntce; and in the preface, speaking of
a Flora Hibernica, observes : " I am well aware that there are some genu-
ine and valuable materials for such a Flora in the hands of a gentleman in
the northern part of this kingdom, — a person every way qualified from indus-
try, information, and acuteness, for such an undertaking ; and it is much to
be lamented he does not gratify the botanical world with the result of his
researches." This work he sent to Mr. Templeton, as a mark of " respect
for his botanical abilities and private worth." I do not find, however, that
an intimacy ever took place between these gentlemen, though nothing is
so apt to lead to friendly intercourse as a real attachment to the same pur-
suits. Several botanists, about this time, urged Mr. Templeton to prose-
cute the work alluded to ; and from a letter to Mr. Brown, before men-
tioned, then quartered with his regiment at Derby, it appears that he
seriously engaged in it ; but his diffidence, and his desire of rendering the
work perfect, still delayed the publication. It may here be mentioned,
that Mr. Templeton was a frequent contributor to the English Botany
published by Sir J. E. Smith and Mr. Sowerby, to the Fud published by
Mr. Dawson Turner, to the Conferva of Mr. Dillwyn, and to the Musco-
IRfgia of his friends Drs. Hooker and Taylor. He also furnished many re-
marks on the cultivation of plants to Professor Martyn, for his folio edition
of Miller's Dictionary^ and to the Rev. Messrs. Dubourdieu and Sampson
for their County Reports, though much was admitted in these which his
better judgment would have disapproved, and which was afterwards the
subject of severe but just censure. To English Botany he sent, besides
thei^osa hibernica and Orobanche rubra, FunariaTempletonia, Conferva par-
adoxa, and Jungermannia gracillima, original discoveries of his own; and
twenty other plants found in Ireland, all cryptogamic except the Ew^hovhia
hibernica. But Mr. Templeton did not confine his attention to botany.
Skilled, like Linnaeus, in the various departments of natural history, his
comprehensive mind planned, what he was peculiarly well qualified to exe-
cute, a general natural history of Ireland. His preparations for this work
were considerable, and he continued to labour at it to the last, being with-
held from publication by his desire to render it complete. Though

Biography : — John TempUlon^ Esq. 307

ixeveF instructed in the art of drawing, he acquired such skill in represent-
ing tlie various objects he saw, that his delineations are remarkable for
their fidelity ; and his anxiety to impart knowledge made him particularly
attentive to whatever would tend to illustrate the subject. He has left
behind him lists, in each department, of the native productions which came
within his knowledge, with references and original remarks, and often
illustrated by drawings made by himself from the object, which he often
gratified his friends, and even strangers, with liberty to examine. It will
naturally be expected that some of these should be more full than others.
Ornithology was, I believe, the first object to which Mr. Templeton paid
attention, and whilst no department has been neglected, this is peculiarly
rich and interesting.

The author of an address to the managers of our Belfast Institution, on
the cultivation of natural history, after speaking of Mr. Templeton as a
botanist, adds : " As none of the branches of natural history has escaped
his penetrating research, much of the natural history of our island has re-
ceived elucidation from his pen ; and very many of its natural productions
have been beautifully delineated by his spirited and able pencil. His labours
would form a most valuable present to the public."

His reason for drawing so many figures was, the having observed so few
correctly given in published works.

Natural science will, indeed, sustain a heavy loss, should these accumu-
lations of his genius and industry be withheld from the public ; but his son
may be reasonably expected to accomplish his father's design ; and though
these valuable remains will want that finish which, had life been spared, the
author was himself so well qualified to give, yet they were so much ad^
vanced, that there seems no objection to their publication. As this, how-
ever, will be attended with heavy expense, it may be hoped that those who
respected the author while living, as well as those who are interested in the
pursuit of natural history, will give it all the countenance in their power,
and that the publication will take place as early as possible. When, in
1808, the Belfast Magazine was undertaken, Mr. Templeton supplied it
with two monthly articles, entitled, the Naturalist's Report, and the Me-
teorological Report, nearly as long as the work was continued, besides occa-
sional articles. The object of the former appears to have been, to notice
such circumstances as woidd serve to denote changes of weather, &c., for
the use of the husbandman and the gardener. In the introduction, after
pointing out the modes which the ancients had of foretelling changes in
weather, he proceeds thus : " But the celebrated Linnaeus was the first who
endeavoured to establish a calendar for the husbandman and the gardener,
independent of astronomical signs, which, in our northern and variable
climate, seldom prognosticate the changes of the weather with such cer-
tainty as might be expected. As plants, however, vegetate according to
the temperature which prevails, and flowers blow in a regular and never
varying order, we have certain means, which can never fail, for directing us
when to begin and leave off the various operations in husbandry and gar-
dening. Should we, therefore, find, after a few years' experience, that the
best crops were uniformly produced when we sowed or planted at the time
a particular tree or plant flowered, we have ever a sure guide, independent
of astronomical revolutions, and can direct others to pursue the same plan
in whatever country they are |)laced. Thus if we have found, that, on
sowing peas or other seed when the gooseberry flowered, they were ready
for gathering when the corn-marigold flowered, we are pretty sure that
each succeeding year the same uniformity will prevail, and by a little atten-
tion, the times of gathering other crops will soon be known ; a matter of
considerable importance to all who wish to enjoy the products of their
garden in succession. Advantages nearly similar may be derived from at-
tention to the migration of birds. These never fail to bring us the earliest

308 Biograjphy ; — John Templeton^ Esq,

intelligence of whatever changes in the weather we are to expect. When
the woodcock, fieldfare, and other winter birds of passage, appear un-
usually soon, and in uncommon numbers, we have every reason to expect
a severe winter; and when wildgeese and swans pass to the southward, we
know that the season, being severe, and the waters frozen northward, a
change of the wind towards that quarter will be accompanied by similar
weather. We should accordingly provide ourselves with shelter, food, and
suitable raiment J and the attentive gardener, protection for his tender
plants. But when the swift appears, let him turn out the inhabitants of his
green-house. By attention to insects, independently of receiving notice of
an approaching plenty or scarcity of fish, we may often guard against their
destructive effects. Thus may man, by the study of nature, gain new
powers, triumph over obstacles which present themselves on every side, and,
by means placed by the Deity within his reach, acquire foreknowledge."

Such a report, continued, as it was, for many years, must afford valuable
data; and 1 cannot but think that the collection of them in a separate
publication, with such addition as his papers would supply, would be very
useful. In the introduction to the meteorological report, he notices what
has been done, and especially the tables compiled by our late estimable
countryman, Richard Kirwan, Esq., by which the temperature may be calcu-
lated for agricultural or horticultural purposes ; but observes, " that the
husbandman is yet at a loss to know what dependence should be placed on
the flitting clouds, whether his hay, when exposed to dry, will meet the
long wished-for sunshine." Hoping that at some future day a genius will
arise, who will arrange and give to the world a system which shall tend to
remove that uncertainty, " we will endeavour," he says, " to present a series
of well authenticated observations, which may assist him to complete so
desirable an undertaking." Mr. Templeton was admirably fitted for sup-
plying such articles as have been mentioned, because his eyes were always
open, and his observation ever keen. Nothing curious escaped his atten-
tion; and his journal, regularly kept and preserved from the year 1806 to
his last illness, contains a great variety of information, which would supply
an interesting work of the same nature as that of Mr. White of Sel-
borne, whom, in some respects, he much resembled. Ever ready to commu-
nicate what he knew, he supplied the late Mr. Wakefield with many anec-
dotes respecting the instinct of animals, and those cases in which they
appear to have powers superior to instinct, and there are probably many
others occurring in these books. In a cursory perusal of one of them, I
met one respecting a gander, which he observed searching for and raising
carrots. The gander removed the earth around the root with his bill,
which, on becoming clotted with earth, he shook until cleared; and when
he had bared the root sufficiently to get a firm hold of it with his bill, he
then, with sometimes considerable exertion, pulled it entirely out. I may
here, perhaps, recall to your notice some lines of my friend, the Rev. Dr.
Drummond, in his poem on the Giants* Causeway. Speaking of the instinct
which directs the eel and the salmon, he adds, —

" Unfold it, then, O Templeton, whose view
Has roved creation's peopled regions through ;
Thou, who canst speak of all the flowers of spring,
Of fish of every fin, and birds of every wing ;
Tell, for thou know'st, how Nature has assigned
Their times and senses to each tribe and kind ;
And how her laws direct, propel, control.
So wondrous wise, th' instinctive power of soul.

Mr. Templeton was not a great traveller, but he was well acquainted
with Ulster. During the time he spent with Lord Clanbrassil, at Bryaas-

I

Biography : — John Templeton^ Esq. 309

ford, he explored the Mourne Mountains, which he afterwards visited witli
his friends, Dr. Stokes, Fellow of Dublin College, and Mr. J, T. Mackay,
the able superintendant of the Dublin College Botanic Garden, whose en-
thusiasm in the pursuit of botanical knowledge made him a great favourite
with our deceased friend. He went frequently to the Giants* Causeway,
and has left very interesting details of, at leastj two of his excursions to it,
which would together perhaps give a more satisfactory account of the coast
of Antrim than has yet been laid before the public. He also went over
most of Ulster, and as far west as Sligo. He examined the interesting re-
gions of the Wicklow mountains and valleys, but was never in the west or
south of Ireland, though he often projected expeditions to both. He made
a short tour through some interesting parts of Scotland, in company with
the late General M'Kinnon, to whom he was much attached, but does not
appear to have made any dicovery in that country. Like Linnaeus in
general knowledge and in enthusiastic attachment to science, Mr. Tem-
pleton differed much from him in one respect ; for whilst the great Swedish
naturalist was remarkable for vain and ostentatious display, he was very
modest and unassuming, so that no person who chanced to meet him would
ever have suspected that he was distinguished for knowledge; till, in course
of time, his communicative disposition would have discovered the treasures
of his mind. The high estimation in which he was held by other eminent
botanists is evident from the manner in which they speak of him. By
SirJ.E, Smith, Pres. Lin. Soc, of which Mr. Templeton was an associate,
he is frequently mentioned, and is spoken of as a most acute and observing
botanist. Other instances have been already quoted, and the letters in his
correspondence would supply more. In addition to the naturalists already
mentioned, he corresponded with the Rev. Dr. Fleming, author of a
valuable work on the Philosophy of Zoology ; Dr. Berger, the mineralo-
gist, Drs. Ogilby and Kennedy, two young physicians, who promised to
render important services to natural history had their lives been spared;
Dr. Barker, the Professor of Chemistry in Dublin College, and many others.
I have already pointed out Mr. Templeton as deserving of imitation by
naturalists on account of his humanity and tenderness ; I would also direct
your attention to his candour, and his anxiety to do justice to the claims
of others. Whilst no one was more alive to the pleasure of discovery, he
disdained to rob any man of his due praise. He took delight in speaking of
the acquisitions made by others, and was always ready to communicate his
own. He was also free from the faults, which Cowper has so well exposed,
of attributing events to second causes, without referring to the Great First
Cause. Many instances of this occur in his writings. Thus, in one of the
Naturalist's Reports, he says, " To mortal man it is not given to lift the veil
which conceals the mysteries of nature, and even after the most careful in-
vestigation, he beholds, but in part only, that economy which governs the
whole. Our winter birds of passage begin now to leave us, to revisit the
northern regions, and amidst the wilds of Lapland, Nova Zembla, and the
innumerable lakes within the arctic circle, to enjoy that peace and security
denied them in the more populous countries of the south. But by what
peculiar sensations they are enabled to hold their unerring course through
the pathless air, amidst darkness and storms, the human mind has not been
able to conceive, and man is led to look with humility

* From nature up to nature's God.' "

In another report, after noticing a number of striking circumstances, he con-
cludes thus : " Such and so various are the phenomena of the creation,
that we are led to exclaim, * Great is our God, and great is his power; and
his wisdom is unsearchable !' "

SIO Obituary : — Mr. George Caley.

Reflections of this kind are found in his manuscripts, and in this he de-
serves our imitation. I shall mention only one other trait in his character, —
an anxious desire to promote the diffusion of knowledge. He was an early
member, though not one of the first, of the Belfast Society for promoting
Knowledge. This was founded in the year 1 788, and he was admitted in
the year 1792, from which time he continued ever anxious for the pros-
perity of that society. He was also one of the earliest friends and steady
supporters of the Belfast Academical Institution, being appointed a visitor
by the act of incorporation. He was the proposer of the liberal grant
made by the proprietors of the Linen Hall to establish lectures on chemistry
and mechanics ; and when lately the Mechanics' Institute was commenced,
being prevented by illness from attending, he sent his thoughts on the
subject in writing, and was most solicitous for the success of the measure.
Of our own Society, though from bad health unable to attend our meetings,
he was a zealous advocate, and received much gratification from the
thought that the branch of science to which he had so ardently devoted
himself, was cultivated in his own native town, and that he left behind him
those who would value his labours. May his example animate your ex-
ertions, and may the name of Templeton be ever remembered with respect
by the members of this Society ! And, that our young members may be
familiar with it, and led to enquire about him, I would suggest the appro-
priation of such a sum annually, as our limited income will admit, for the
encouragement of exertion in Natural History, to be called the Temple-
tonian prize or medal, according to the plan you may adopt, if the sug-
gestion be approved of. Such prizes are often useful in inciting the youth-
ful mind to exertion, and such encouragement of natural history may lead
the young to avail themselves more than they have yet done of the oppor-
tunities afforded them for the cultivation of it.

Art. XII. Obituary,.

Died, on the 23d of May, at Bayswater, aged 59, Mr. George Caley. This
very remarkable person was born and educated in Craven, in Yorkshire, in
an humble station of life ; and seems to have contracted an early predilec-
tion for natural history, by coming in contact with those excellent practical
botanists who do so much honour to their calling in the town of Manches-
ter. His attention was first directed to indigenous plants, and few persons
were better acquainted with them. His father's business, which was that
of a small farmer and horse-dealer, frequently called him into remoter parts
of the country, and gave him a large acquaintance with English localities.
No person who has not conversed with some one belonging to the Man-
chester school of botanists, can have any conception of the ardour and de-
votedness with which the discovery and cultivation of the rarer species is
pursued : they live in a little world of their own^ are remarkable for their
sobriety and industry, and derive many advantages from that sectarian spirit
which, separating the few upon some distinct ground from the many, obliges
them to uphold each other, and magnifies the importance of the object that
associates them. Every hill and plain within a day's walk (and that none
of the shortest) of Manchester has been examined by them with micro-
scopical diligence ; and Mr. Caley, the subject of this brief memoir, was not
the person to sink the temperature of their zeal in a subject which wholly
engrossed him ; and, if he received from them some increase of ardour in
the first instance, it cannot be doubted but that he transmitted it to them,
in return, with redoubled intensity. His pursuits soon brought him ac-

Obituary : — Mr. George Caley; Sll

quainted with Dr. Hull and Dr. Withering; and the works of these
botanists frequently make mention of him. What was the link of his
acquaintance with that munificent patron of science, Sir Joseph Banks, does
not appear ; but, about the year 1800, he was sent out by him as a collector
to New South Wales, and supported there for ten years at his expense.
We have heard that he fairly got his appointment by dint of importunity ;
but knowing as we do the excessive modesty of the man, we can only ac-
count for this by the habitual intensity with which he regarded his object,
which sank all the intermediate steps as unimportant so that he could but
attain to the grand one. Certainly, no man was better adapted for such an
undertaking : he possessed a robust constitution, was a stranger to silken
ease, and had the power of endurance and of suffering privation to a great
degree. He knew how to conciliate the natives by an easy and jocular
familiarity, and afforded, at all times, to his companions, a fine example of"
perseverance. We have heard him say, his spirits never yielded when he
had to lead a party through the woods, though they had frequently done so
when he was led b}' others; but these were only his physical qualifications.
He had acquired practically an extensive knowledge of plants ; and,
although but slenderly educated, had made himself sufficiently master of
Latin to enable him to make use of such books as were put into his hands.
His power of observation was unusually strong, and he seized hold, as if by
instinct, of the peculiarities of every thing. He made great accessions to
botany and zoology during his residence in this remote quarter of the globe,
and was an extremely good preserver of specimens. It was his good for-
tune to be in the country when Mr. Brown and Mr. Bauer visited it ; and
the former gentleman, by whom he was highly esteemed, has done honour
to his intelligence, b}^ naming after him a fine orchideous genus, Calea««.
He calls him ** botanicus peritus et accuratus." * He was brought home as
an evidence on behalf of Governor Bligh, loading himself with a great store
of specimens of plants, and a fine collection of the birds and quadrupeds of
New Holland, which was purchased by the Linnean Society. Some account
is given of part of it in the 15th volume of the Linnean Transactions, where
Mr. Caley's merits are attested in every page. Having some claims to
settle with the Treasury, on account of his expenses home, it was on this
occasion, we believe, that, upon being tendered his expenses to return, he
utterly astonished the clerks, who seem not to have been familiar with such
instances of ingenuous honesty, by refusing to accept the money, saying it
was not his intention to return, and he could not think of taking what was
not his due; he asked, however, something which he conceived was his
due, but this was refused.

After remaining at home for a few years, he was sent out by the goveFn-
ment as the successor of Dr. Anderson, in the superintendence of the bota-
nical garden at St. Vincent's. Here his quick sense of honour would not
permit him to continue to incur expenses which he considered unnecessary,
and he reduced the establishment so as to save the Treasury some hundreds
a year. He involved himself, too, in some litigation to recover a piece of
ground which belonged to the garden, in which he succeeded. Poor Caley,
however, got no thanks in the island, nor at home, for his unnecessary fi-
delity ; but, after residing there for about eleven years, the establishment
was wholly broken up, and he returned to England. For some years past,
he resided in seclusion at Bayswater, supported by the scanty pittance he
had saved while at St. Vincent's ; and, although his income scarcely exceeded
that of a day-labourer, he contrived to pick up several hundred volumes at
a cheap rate, chiefly of botanical works and voyages, which would have
done credit to more ample means. Indeed, the buying of books almost

* " A skilful and accurate botanist."

3rl#- Obituary : — Mr. George Caley.

amounted to a passion ; and it is quite surprising how a man with his slen-
der means could amass such a library, and yet discharge every debt he had
in the world: indeed, reading now became his only solace. The accounts
of voyages and travels enabled him to fight his own battles over again ; and
he could always, he used to say, identify himself with his hero in his di-
lemmas. He knew what it was to be hungered and athirst, to be drenched
and to be naked, and to spend day after day face to face with death. Yet,
after all, it was the mode of life he delighted in ; and, if he had had his will,
he would have returned to be a child of the woods again. Though a
matter-of-fact man, he was not without imagination, as his modes of ex-
pression would often testify. His residence in the West Indies had mate-
rially impaired his constitution; and he attributed the complaint which was
the cause of his death to an accident he had sustained there. It was a long
time before his friends could induce him to call in medical assistance ; and
he had, perhaps, relied too much on his own judgment in treating a disease
which baffled the skill of his very friendly physician. For six long months
he suifered under most excruciating pain, yet he bore it with exemplary for-
titude ; and, instead of seeking relief by dilating upon his own unhappy con-
dition, he took every opportunity to turn to topics in which he knew his
friendly visitors took a deep interest with himself; and absolutely, while
bedridden, and unable to move himself, set about to correct the errors re-
specting certain English plants. It may be worth while to record one of
them as a memento of this extraordinary person. In one of his walks
around Ingleborough, he had gathered in abundance a JYieracium entirely
new to him. He showed it to Dr. Withering, who knew nothing of it,
and it was agreed to refer it to Mr. Dickson. It was pronounced, very
hesitatingly, by " Jemmy," as this lynx-eyed botanist was called among
his familiars, to be H. villosum, and it was so published in the 3d edition
of Dr. Withering ; yet Mr. Caley stated that Dickson had very slender
ground for his opinion ; and that he was wrong, was shown by the plant
turning out to be something else in the following season. As far, there-
fore, as Withering is concerned, ^ieracium villosum must be excluded from
the British Flora.

Although he cheated pain by these little diversions, his strength gradually
failed. He felt, and often repeated, that he knew he should die ; and he
requested the writer of this to assist him in arranging his little worldly
affairs. His first desire was to provide for one who had faithfully attended
upon him in his sickness ; and his second was to repair, all he could, the
injury he thought he had done to a poor bird which he had caught in the
woods of New Holland, and had deprived of liberty for twenty years. He
therefore charges certain persons, who were to be benefited by his pro-
perty, with the care of his cockatoo. He then bequeaths his freedom to a
negro he possessed in the West Indies ; and lastly, gives the residue to his
nearest relations.* These are slight traits of character, but they mark a
nobleness of mind which will for ever distinguish the possessor from the
common herd of mankind. If poor Caley had had only the pocket of a beg-
gar, he would have acted with the honour of a prince.

His strength now declined daily, and this declension was succeeded by
an abatement of his pain ; until at length he was unable to converse, and
death came as a welcome messenger to release him from life. He lies
buried in the burial-ground belonging to St. George's, Hanover Square,
near Connaught Place, with another New Holland traveller, Captain
Flinders. — (£/•

* He had been married in 1816; but his wife was dead, and he left no
children.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

NATURAL HISTORY.

SEPTEMBER, 1829.

Art. I. Some Account of the Life, Genius^ and Personal Habits
of the late Thomas Betuick, the celebrated Artist and Engraver
on Wood. By his Friend John F. M. Dovaston, Esq. A.M., of
Westfelton, near Shrewsbury.

" The social, friendly, honest man,
Whoe'er he be,
'Tis he fulfils great Nature's plan.

And none but he." Burns.

Sir,

The brief and desultory remarks I am about to incor-
porate amid the congenial pages of your Magazine of Natural
History, arise from a fond and fertile memory of much con-
versation, and a long and frequent correspondence, with my
excellent and beloyed friend. Thomas Bewick, the celebrated
xylographer and illustrator of nature, was born at Cherry-
burne, in the parish of Ovingham, Northumberland, August
12. 1753. His father, John Bewick, was a collier at Mickley
Bank ; and Thomas, with his brothers, was early immured in
that subterranean, laborious, and loathsome employment. I
haye heard him say that the remotest recollection of his power-
ful and tenacious memory was that of lying for hours on his
side between dismal strata of coal, by a glimmering and dirty
candle, plying the pick with his little hands; those hands
afterwards destined to elevate the arts, illustrate nature, and
promulgate her truths, to the delight and instruction of the
moral and intellectual world. He was, however, occasionally
sent to school, to the Rev. Christopher Gregson, minister of
Ovingham ; where, he says, he was treated with considerable
severity, but (as he added, with his constant good-humour,
and in his athletic dialect) " I sairly desarved it, for I ware a
muckle wild young dog." He always spoke with the deepest
gratitude of his master, and, before his death, had the satis-

Vol. IL — No. 9. y

314 Life, Genius, and Personal Habits of Bewick.

faction of engraving his portrait, which, with those of some
of his friends, will hereafter embellish a somewhat voluminous
memoir of himself, which he amused his latter years in faith-
fully and copiously composing. He was frequently sent out
among the braes of Tyneside to cut birch rods ; and on one
of these occasions, being ordered to cut one for himself, he
Jugged into the school the most ponderous birch bough he
could cut, entirely divested of its twigs. In these truant
hours of sunshine, he would loiter along the river banks,
watching the sand-martens, hovering like butterflies about the
precipitous promontories, or the spreckled trout sporting
among the flies that streaked the dimpling waters beneath ;
and in these delicious moments, Nature was busy depositing
in his fine and fertile mind those seeds that have since pro-
duced such a plenitude of rich blossoms and wholesome fruits
to the healthy appetite of taste. His first tendency to draw-
ing was noticed by his chalking the floors and grave-stones
with all manner of fantastic figures, and by sketching the out-
line of any known character of the village, dogs, or horses,
which were instantly recognised as faithful portraits. The
halfpence he got were always laid out in chalk or coarse pen-
cils ; with which, when taken to church, he scrawled over the
ledges of the bench with ludicrous caricatures of the parson,
clerk, and the more prominent of the congregation. These
boards are now in the possession of the Duke of Northum-
berland, by whom they were replaced ; and when his chalk
was exhausted, he resorted to a pin or a nail as a substitute.
In his Memoir, of which I have heard him read a large, thick,
closely-written quarto, he relates, with playful spirit, many
anecdotes of his juvenile frolics. The church of Ovingham,
like most others, in the peaceful simplicity and good-will of
our ancestors, ere aristocratic pride had encroached on cha-
rity, was not parted into proud pews, but set out in plain and
parallel benches, like those of the friendly Quakers, where
rich and poor sat, clean and kindly, side by side, in honest
and inostentatious gratitude to their common Creator. During
service-time, which was tediously wearisome to the active mind
of young Bewick, it was one of his tricks to crawl under these
benches, and tickle the feet and neat ancles of the young
women. One, a more ticklish and winsome lass, on being so
handled, jumped up, exclaiming loudly to the parson, " Oh !
Sir, guide (punish) Thomas Bewick :" upon which she got the
young wag tickled with a smart flogging. This lass, whose
name was Elliot, he afterwards married. In consequence of
this propensity to drawing, some liberal people, of whom, he
says, there are many in Newcastle, got him bound apprentice

Life<i Genius^ afid Personal Habits of Bewick, 315

to a Mr. Bielby, an engraver on copper and brass. During
this period he walked most Sundays to Ovinghani (ten miles),
to see his parents ; and, if the Tyne was low, crossed it on
stilts ; but, if high-flowing, hollaed across to enquire their
health, and returned. This infant genius (but it was the
infant Hercules struggling with the snakes) was bound down
by his master to cut clock-faces and door-knockers — ay,
clock-faces and door-knockers ! — and he actually showed me
several in the streets of Newcastle he had cut.

At this time he was employed by Bielby to cut on wood the
blocks for Dr. Hutton's great work on Mensuration. Hutton
was then a schoolmaster at Newcastle (1770). Still his rest-
less enthusiasm for Nature stirred within him ; and on his
master's " ticking " him, he one morning gave them all " leg^
bail," and marched off, as he intended, for Scotland; but,
from his ignorance of the way, he walked to Carlisle, and
perambulated the bold, rich, and lovely scenery of Cumber-
land and Westmoreland, as he says, to his utter amazement
and rapture. Having here somewhat slaked his prodigious
thirst for Nature, he struck off for Scotland, and for many
weeks wandered among the nearer Hebrides and Highlands,
living on milk, bannocks, and kebbuck; which, like poor
Goldsmith (whom his father once sheltered in his cottage), h^
repaid the hospitable Highlanders for with his flute. When,
on his return, he came to Jedburgh, his heart began to fail,
and the walk from thence to his master's bench was th(5
heaviest of all the hundreds of miles he had tramped. I have
repeatedly heard him speak of this wild excursion with the
most rapturous animation ; and, no doubt, it was among that
awful, amazing, and stupendous scenery, those seeds of g»nius
vigorously germinated and took most tenacious root, whose
branches were strengthened by the subsequent storms of life,
and whose luxuriant foliage basked to the latest evening in the
sunshine of prosperity, amid the well-earned radiation of suc-
cess. Happy old man ! the means by which thou hast pro-
vided for and educated thy amiable family, have been gained
by works that delight and instruct millions, and thy example
shows the ardent fidelity of thy heart; this fixed thy con-
fidence in thy Creator, and confirmed thy lively hopes of His
everlasting reward.

After his apprenticeship, he worked a short time for a per-
son in Hatton Garden; but he disliked London extremely,
still panting for his native home, to whose braes and bonny
banks he joyously returned ; where he was occupied in cutting
figures and ornaments for books; and now received his first
prize from the Society of Arts for the " Old Hound," in an

Y 2

316 -^z/^5 Genius, and Personal Habits of Bexvick.

edition of Gay's Fables. A glance at this cut will show what
a low state wood-engraving was at, when a public society-
deemed it worthy a reward ; yet even in this are as readily
visible some lines and touches of the future great master of
this delicious art. He never omitted visiting itinerant cara-
vans of animals, from whose living looks and attitudes he
made spirited drawings. This led to his History of Qua-
drupeds, 1 790 ; the first block, however, of which, he cut the
very day of his father's death, Nov. 15. 1785. From this
work he obtained very considerable celebrity ; which led him
shortly to draw and engrave the wild bull at Chillingham,
Lord Tankerville's, the largest of all his wood-cuts, impres-
sions of which have actually been sold at twenty guineas each ;
and also the zebra, elephant, lion, and tiger, for Pidcock
(Exeter Change), copies whereof are now extremely scarce
and valuable. He also executed some curious works on cop-
per, to illustrate a Tour through Lapland, by Matthew Con-
sett, Esq. ; and his Quadrupeds having passed through seven
editions, his fame was widely and well established. The
famous typographer, Bulmer, of the Shakspeare Press (a na-
tive of Newcastle), now employed John Bewick, who, at the
age of fourteen, had also been apprenticed to Bielby, in co-
operation with his brother Thomas, to embellish a splendid
edition of Goldsmith's Deserted Village and Hermit, Parnell's
Poems, and Somerville's Chace, The designs and execution
of these were so admirable and ingenious, that the late king,
George III., doubted their being worked on wood, and re-
quested a sight of the blocks, at which he was equally delighted
and astonished. It is deeply to be lamented we have so few
specimens of the talents of John Bewick, who died of a pul-
monary complaint, 1795, at the early age of thirty-five.

I now, in this hasty, feeble, and divaricated biographical
sketch, approach the great and favourite work of my admired
friend. The History of British Birds. The first volume of
this all-delighting work was published in 1797, jointly by
Bielby and Bewick, but was afterwards continued by Bewick
alone, some disputes having arisen, which I need not rekindle
here, being determined not to make, as I am deeply grieved
to see, your pages. Sir, a vehicle for the records of altercation.
This beautiful, accurate, animated, and (I may really add)
wonderful production, having passed through six editions,
each of very numerous impressions, is now universally known
and admired. Open the work where ye will, only look at the
bird, his attitude, his eye, — is he not alive ? I actually and
ardently aver that I have gazed till I have readily imagined
motion, ay, colour ! Look at the blackbird ; is he not just

Ijife^ Genius, and Perso7ial Habits of BemcJc. 317

about to stoop for his hurried evening bustle of alarm ? do ye
not (in the still and fine ear of imagination, your mind's ear)
keenly catch his rapid clink, clink, clink ? See the alert wren,
with cocked tail, just a- stoop for another flurring flight, still
wriggling, all a-song, with her kiss, kiss, kiss, churee, kiss, kiss.
Look at the clean, peeping, gliding, willow-wren, about to
pick an insect amid the green silk leaves, with her few and
feeble liquid notes. An the water ouzel have not a brown
umber cast on his back, I'm a pepper-corn, yea, a brewer's
horse. Do, now, repose your eye on the kingfisher; an he
be not alternately green and blue, there's no purchase in
money. Wonder (for, in honest sooth, ye well may) at the
mothiness of the ow4s, the sleekness of the falcons, the plump-
ness of the ducks, the neatness of the larks and Afotacillae.
Each bird, too, has his character most physiognomically
marked. The honest inoffensive ringdove; the work-job-
bing nuthatch; the poet blackcap; the parson crow; the
gay-crested silken counsellor chatterer; and the cunning,
rogue-attorney magpie ; though I am sorry to libel the poor
birds. The moral habits of each are as distinctly marked as
had he painted portraits of individuals for Lavater. Had he
done no more than draw the outlines of these figures on paper,
it would have ranked him among the most happy of draughts-
men ; but to have transferred these to wood, in the finest lines
of black and white, to have given light, shade, and almost
relief, is beyond all praise, but that of the silent and admiring
mind and heart.

The first time I had a personal interview with my venerable
friend was at Newcastle upon Tyne, on Wednesday, Oct. 1.
1823, after perambulating the romantic regions of Cumberland
and Westmoreland, with my friend, John E. Bowman, Esq.
F.L.S. We had been told that he retired from his work-
bench on evenings to the " Blue Bell on the side," for the
purpose of reading the news. To this place we repaired, and
readily found ourselves in the presence of the great man. For
my part, so warm was my enthusiasm, that I could have
rushed into his arms, as into those of a parent or benefactor.
He was sitting by the fire in a large elbow-chair, smoking.
He received us most kindly, and in a very few^ minutes we felt
as old friends. He appeared a very large athletic man, then
in his seventy-first year, with thick, bushy, black hair, retain-
ing his sight so completely as to read aloud rapidly the smallest
type of a newspaper. He was dressed in very plain brown
clothes, but of good quality, with large flaps to his waistcoat,
grey woollen stockings, and large buckles. In his under-lip
he had a prodigious large quid of tobacco, and he leaned on

Y 3

318 I^fii Genius, and Personal Habits of Bewick,

a very thick oaken cudgel, which, I afterwards learned, he cut
in the woods of Hawthornden. His broad, bright, and bene-
volent countenance at one glance bespoke powerful intellect
and unbounded good-will, with a very visible sparkle of merry
wit. The discourse at first turned on politics (for the paper
was in his hand), on which he at once openly avowed himself
a warm whig, but clearly without the slightest wish to pro-
voke opposition. I at length succeeded in turning the con-
versation into the fields of natural history, but not till after he
had scattered forth a profusion of the most humorous anecdotes,
that would baffle the most retentive memory to enumerate,
and defy the most witty to depict. I succeeded by mention-
ing an error in one of his works; for which, when I had con-
vinced him, he thanked me, and took the path in conversation
we wished. In many instances, I must remark, though fre-
quently succeeding to the broadest humour, his countenance
and conversation assumed and emitted flashes and features of
absolutely the highest sublimity ; indeed, to an excitement of
awful amazement, particularly when speaking on the works
of the Deity. I turned to and whispered Bowman, that in
Bewick's face was legibly written, " Glory to God in the
highest, on earth peace, and good-will towards men."

Thus far. Sir, have I complied with your request, by throw-
ing off the first portion of my sketch, wherein I have been
confined to minute reminiscences ; to which, indeed, the daily
occupation of men of his genius and retirement usually con-
fines its even tenour. But who, when feasting on his multi-
farious facts and fancies, owns not a curiosity in the mere cut
of his coat, or the turn of his lip ? What part of biographi-
cal history is more eagerly quaffed than the trifles recorded by
Drummond and Ben Jonson of the convivial conversation and
gentle manners of Shakspeare? A poet so matchless has
imparted value to a mulberry tobacco-stopper and a crab-tree
snuff-box. Surely, then, may some interest be excited by
familiar anecdotes of an artist so absolutely inimitable, and
who, in the best and purest sense, has been called a painter ;
for that glorious art consists no more in colour and contrast,
than does poetry in rhyme and metre, but both alike in
fertility of imagination, fidelity of apprehension, and felicity
of expression. All else that possesses them merely is " such
stuff as madmen tongue, but brain not."

I am equally aware of the disadvantage to myself'm dividing
my narrative, and to you of swelling your book with too heavy
an article. I shall, however, proceed with pleasure to my
next portion in due time, hoping (which is my sole and cor-
dial motive) through your vehicle, by somewhat extending his

Ancient Hebrew Names of Animals, 319

honest fame, to promote the interests of his honoured off-
spring (for his blocks are in their hands, and cannot be
copied), whose friendship, I trust, through Ufe will be insepar-
able with that of

John F. M. Dovaston
Westfelton, near Shrewsbury^
August 12. 1829,

Art. II. A Dissertation on the Ancient Hebrew Names of
Animals. By Mr. Archibald Gorrie, Annat Gardens,
Perthshire. *

Sir,

To those acquainted with Hebrew literature, it is well
known, that nouns, in that primitive language, are generally
expressive of some real or supposed quaHty in the object;
thus

mw Adaniy man, from nm deme, likeness, or similitude.
See Genesis^ i. 26.

nM Ari, a lion, from the verb rnw are, to pluck or tear off;
the manner in which the lion tears its prey.

bo3 Gemel, a camel from "^oa gemel, retribution ; the animaVs
revengeful temper. (Bochart, vol. ii. p. 75.)

DID Shush, the horse, from «?« ses, to be brisk, active,
sprightly. (Parkhurst's Heb, Lex., ^u®.)

"ipa Beker, a herd of bulls and cows, from ipa beker, to look
steadily ; from the attentive or steady manner in which cattle
survey objects, whence Homer's epithet, applied to Juno,
fioooTTis, ox-eyed.

n32-i« Arnbet, from mw are, to crop, and n^3 nib, the produce
of the ground. Bochart says that hares have at different
times desolated the islands Leros, Astypalaea, and Carpathus.
(See his works, vol. ii. p. 63. and p. 995.)

ibn Heled, the weasel, from I'^n heled, to creep in. (Park.
Heb. Lex., n'?n.)

Although the English translation of the bible may be suf-
ficiently correct, as far as regards the names of domesticated
animals which have acquired a degree of notoriety, by being
made subservient to the use of man, or the names of beasts
of prey which were objects of universal terror ; yet the native
birds of Palestine do not excite so general interest, and hence
the many different opinions entertained by writers on that
subject. The translators of the authorised English version
of the bible seem to have paid much attention to the well

Y 4

320 Ancient Mcbrex^ Names of Animals.

known fact, that birds, as well as other living creatures, were
named from something connected with their habits, call, or
appearance ; thus

-1102 Neser, an eagle, from the verb *ittJ3 neser, to tear.

DnD Peresh, the ossifrage, a species of eagle which, it is
said, not only tears the flesh, but also breaks and swallows the
bones ; from did peresh, to break. (See Bocharf, vol. iii. p. 186.)

n>2i5> Oznie. In the English translation of our bible it is
translated osprey. {Lev,,ii\. 13.) Parkhurst says, "What-
ever bird was intended, I think it was so named from p on^
strength, and n^2 nie, moaning." (See h\s Heh, Lex, on n>2Ty.)
Bate calls it the whining kite.

nwn Dae, supposed to be our glede, from its sailing manner
of flying; it is called vulture. [Lev,, xi. 14.)

rr>M Aie, Parkhurst supposes this to mean a vulture, and
that it has been named aie, from its cry. [Heb, Lex, at n>M.) It
is called kite in the English Bible. [Lev., xi. 14.)

y\'S> Oreb, the raven, from the glossy black colour of its
feathers, said to be a mixture of darkness and splendour.
any oreb, the evening, a mixture of light and darkness, from
a-iy oreb, to mingle.

n22?' ni Beth ione, translated the owl. {Lev.,ii\, 16.) Park-
hurst seems to think it means the ostrich, from their loud cry-
ing to each other ; from n23>> r\i beth ione, daughter of the
response.

Donn Tehemesh, translated the night hawk. {Lev., xi. 16.)
Parkhurst considers it a species of owl described by Hassel-
quist {Travels, p. 196.); from Don hemesh, violence, rapine,
outrage.

rjntt) Sehep, translated the cuckoo. {Lev.,yii, 16.) In an old
translation, printed at London in 1599, it is called the sea-
mew, a very lean bird, with which Parkhurst seems to agree,
from the noun r]n« sehep, a wasting consumption.

V3 Nets, a hawk, from ns2 netse, to shoot forth ; its mode of
flying.

;di3 Ciish, the little owl {Lev,, xi. 17.); from hiding itself in
the daytime ; from hdd kese, to conceal.

'fiD SeleJc, the cormorant. {Lev.,'Si\, 17.) Parkhurst says,
" the cataract or plungeon ;" the lxx, xara^axx)}? Jca-
taralctes, from i^«, to cast down. When the bird sees in the
water the fish on which it preys, it flies to a considerable
height, collects its wings close to its sides, and darts down
like an arrow on its prey. {Heb, Lex,, 'j'?©.)

r]i«2> Inesup, the great owl. {Lev,,y^u 17.) Parkhurst
thinks it should be the bittern. {Heb, Lex,, r|ttJ3.)

Hed Snow of the Arctic Regions, ^1 T

nottj:n Tenesmet, the swan/ [Le^.^yii. 18.) Parkhurst thinks
the goose is meant, from its hissing when provoked; from
Dtt)3 nesem, to breathe. {Qiiery, Do the Jews reckon the
goose an unclean bird?)

X2r\^ Rehem, translated the gier eagle {Lev.,^\. 18.), from i
cm reliem^ to love tenderly ; supposed to be some bird remark-
able for its attachment to its young.

r\'v'ox\ Heshide^ also a term expressive of kind attachment, .
the stork. [Lev., xi. 19.) The m^on hcshide is a bird of pas-
sage. n>iyiQ n^T Q^Qtt5i r}Tr)V{ dj (gemheshidebesemimidoemuodie), ..
the stork also in the heavens knoweth her appointed time ;
(J<?r ., viii. 7.), hath large wings (Zech., v. 9.), and has the fir
tree for her house, nn>i D^iuna T\rx:ir\ heside berusim bite. Sup-
posed to have got her Hebrew name from the affection the -
stork has for its young, and, what is rather uncommon, for the
attachment the young bear to the old, whom it is said they
carry on their backs during their migrations. The old, being
unfit to fly, are said to be thus borne to their destination, ,
when the feeble are laid in the nest and fed by the young.
(Parkhurst's Heb. Lex, at m^on.) In Parkhursf s Hebrew
Lexicon, Doctor Scott's opinions respecting the Kath (n^p) of
the ancient Hebrews are well supported. {Mag, of Nat,
Hist., vol. ii. p. 137.) From what is stated above, it will appear
that the Kath is not the only bird of Palestine, about the
modern name of which much uncertainty prevails.*

Arch. Gorrie.
Annat Gardens, May 26. 1829.

Art. III. On the Red Snotv of the Arctic Regions,
By Thomas Nicholson, Esq.

Sir.

The cause of truth, and the remarks of your correspondent
A on the red snow of the arctic regions (Vol. I. p. 306.), have
induced me to trouble you with a few observations on this
subject. In the summer of 1821, I had an opportunity of ex-
amining this substance, which has excited so much interest
amongst naturalists, in its native situation, and I am only sur-
prised that those gentlemen who first discovered it should have
had any doubt as to the nature of its origin.

On the 24th July, whilst our ship was beset with ice near
Bushman's Island, I made a journey, accompanied by two other

* In expressing the Hebrew nouns by Roman characters, it will be ob-
served that no attention is paid to the Masoretic points. ,

S22 Red Snow of the Arctic Regions.

gentlemen, to Sowallick Point, in quest of the meteoric iron,
which we understood was to be found in this quarter. We were
disappointed in the object of our visit, but our mortification on
this account was somewhat lessened by meeting, for the first
time, with the crimson snow, which was described by Captain
Ross.

Sowallick Point is formed by the projection of a small hill
from the high mountainous coast which bounds Prince Re-
gent's Bay. The summit of this hill is covered with huge
masses of granite that have been precipitated at various periods
from the cliffs above, whilst the side, which forms a gentle de-
clivity towards the bay, was covered with crimson snow. It
was evident, at first view, that this colour was imparted to the
snow by a substance lying on its surface. This substance lay
scattered here and there in small masses, bearing some re-
semblance to powdered cochineal, surrounded by a lighter
shade, which was produced by the colouring matter being
partly dissolved and diffused by the deliquescent snow. Dur-
ing this examination, our hats and upper garments were
observed to be daubed with a substance of a similar red colour,
and a moment's reflection convinced us that this was the
excrement of the Little Auk (A'lca minor), myriads of which
were continually flying over our heads, having their nests
among the loose masses of granite, which I have before de-
scribed as covering the ridge of this little hill. A ready ex-
planation of the origin of the red snow was now presented to
us, and not a doubt remained in the mind of any that this was
the correct one. The snow on the mountains of higher ele-
vation than the nests of these birds was perfectly white, and a
ravine at a short distance, which was filled with snow from top
to bottom, but which afforded no hiding-place for these birds
to form their nests, presented a uniformly white appearance-
On the 2d of August I landed on Cape York, and procured
a bottleful of red snow, and collected some of the dung of
the Little Auks from the stones among which they had their
nests; and my intention was to have submitted both to the
examination of some eminent naturalist. But on my arrival
in England, a hasty summons to this country dissolved the red
snow from my memory, and all recollections of the arctic
regions were lost among the new scenes which opened to my
view under a tropical sun.

That there does exist a genus of plants of the order A'\g3d,
that occasionally may impart their colour to snow and other
substances, I would not have the hardihood to deny ; but that
the red snow of the arctic regions owes its colour to this cause
I have some reason to doubt. Deference to the opinion of

On the Wheat Fly. 323

many learned men forbids my speaking positively on this sub-
ject, but I cannot agree with your correspondent, that " there
can be no doubt that the colouring matter of the famous red
snow, brought from the arctic regions by Captain Ross and
Captain Parry is a true vegetable." There is still a doubt,
and until this doubt is removed, I would suggest that the tri-
vial name of the Protococcus nivalis should be changed to that
first adopted by Agardh, namely, Protococcus kermesinus.

I have seen nothing in any work that I have had access to
that could subvert the opinion that I have now advanced. If
I recollect aright, Wollaston declared that during combustion
it emitted the odour of burnt animal substances. The micro-
scopic observations of Bauer and Agardh prove nothing since
those of Brown have been made known ; and indeed Professor
Agardh concludes his Memoir on the subject with a doubt,
whether, after all, the colouring matter of the red snow may
not be of animal nature; whilst your correspondent mentions
that Nees Von Esenbeck was inclined to think that the minute
red globules were the vegetable state of bodies that had gone
through a prior animal existence. The specimen examined
by Dr. Greville was procured from the Island of Lismore,
and, of course, may be quite a different thing.

I shall conclude by hoping that if any of your readers
should ever make £^ voyage to Baffin's Bay, that he will not
fail to procure a portion of the red snow, and of the dung of the
Little Auks, or Cockroaches (as they are called by our Greenland
seamen), for further examination. I am, Sir, &c.

Antigua, May 28. 1829. Thos. Nicholson.

I

Art. IV. On ike Wheat Fly. By Mr. Archibald Gorrie,
C.M.H.S., &c.

Sir,
In September, 1828, I submitted to your readers a query
concerning the wheat fly, which appeared in the Magazine of
Natural History (Vol. II. p. 292). At that time I did not know
that a yellow fly had deposited the eggs within the glume,
which became maggots. Observing numbers of black flies on
the ears of wheat, I believed they had been the produce of
the caterpillar; and, as will appear by my query, I supposed
they deposited their eggs about the grain. I have this season,
however, observed the yellow fly (described by the Rev. W.
Kirby in Vol. I. p. 227.) deposit its eggs in the wheat ear,
and, what is remarkable, in the ear of the Triticum repens,

324?

On Vessels made of the Papyrus.

and in that of no other grass. The fly has not known that mo-
dern botanists no longer ranged the couch grass amongst
the wheat tribe, but, hke myself, it is most attached to the
Linnean names and system. The black fly deposits its eggs
in the larvae 'whe7i it can get at them ,• but a tithe of them are
not touched in this way. The maggots have all left the ears,
and are now in the ground, about half an inch deep, where
they will likely pass the winter in a pupa state. It is, there-
fore, to their destruction in their winter quarters, and not to
that of the eggs about the grain, as I formerly supposed, that
attention should be directed. In this quarter they have de-
stroyed from 3 to 5 bolls per acre.

I am. Sir, &c.

Archibald Gorrie.
Annat Gardens, Errol, Perthshire,
August 1. 1829.

lRT.

On Vessels made of the Papyrus. By John
Hogg, Esq. M.A. F.L.S., &c.

Sir,

^ It must always be an agreeable and ^interesting subject, to
prove that very ancient customs are still in use among the
same people of the world, as nothing can tend more to eluci-
date their history, and to explain difficult and obscure passages
in authors who have written on those countries and on their
inhabitants.

In tracing coincidences of this sort, I have been induced to
make the following hasty observations, extracted from ancient
and modern authorities, in order show that vessels have, from
the earliest times, been formed of the papyrus, and that they
are at present in use in Egypt and Abyssinia.

The papyrus, paper reed, or Egyptian reed, the Cyperus
Papyrus of Linnaeus, or Papyrus antiquorum of Sprengel, is
a plant so well known, that it will be superfluous to add here
any detailed account of it. It is the HaTrupoj of Theophrastus
(lib. iv. cap. 9.) and Dioscorides (lib. i. cap. 116.)? the Papy*
rus of Pliny : it is called ^u^Xog by Herodotus, Strabo, &c. ;
and Biblus by some Latin authors. In Scripture, Rush, and
Bulrush; in Hebrew, Goma; in Arabia, JEl-babir j and, in
Egypt, El'berdi, are its different appellations.

We find mention of ships, and boats or canoes, being
made of the Papyrus in Exodus, Job, Isaiah, Herodotus,
Theophrastus, Diodorus Siculus, Strabo, Lucan, Pliny, and

On Vessels made of the Papyrus,

^.3^5

Plutarch, among the ancient writers ; and by some modern
authors, as Shaw, Bruce, &c.

Let us first consider what the earlier writers observe on
these vessels.

Theophrastus says that, in Egypt, " they make boats of the
papyrus, and weave both sails and ropes of the bark." *

Pliny states the same ; " of the papyrus itself they make sail-
ing vessels ; and of its bark, sails and cables." f Again, he
mentions " papyrine ships and equipments of the Nile" (papy-
raceis navibus, armamentisque Nili. lib. vi.c.22.) ; and, in
another place, he speaks more distinctly of their Egyptian
origin, as, *,* ships were first invented from papyrus in the Nile
in Egypt." :t

Also, according to Plutarch : — " Isis, having heard of it,
sought about for the fragments (of Osiris), and sailed through
the midst of marshes, in a ship {baris) made of the paper reed.
From whence it is, that they who sail in boats of the papyrus
do not receive any harm from crocodiles, which either fear or
honour them for the sake of the goddess." §

But Herodotus has given a good account of the ships of
burthen, called ba-
ris {fig, 88.), which
were commonlyused
on the Nile ; and he
thus describes the
ancient Egyptian
method of build-
ing them : — " Cut-
ting planks from
the thorn tree (most
probably the Mi-
mosa nilotica Lin,),
about two cubits

large, they place them together in the form of bricks, build-
ing the vessel after this manner : they bind these planks of
two cubits around thick and long stakes ; when they have thus
put them together, they place benches upon them: they
never make use of carved ribs ; but they fill up the joints on

* nXoTa TTOiovaiv k^ avTOV, Kai Ik Trig ftitkov lorta re TrXkowtri, .. . ,Kai oxoivia
re, (Lib. iv. cap. 9.)

t Ex ipsa quidem papyro navigia texunt, et e libro vela . . . . ac funes.
{Hist. Nat., lib. xiii. cap. 11.)

t Naves primum repertas in iEgypto in Nilo ex papyro. (Lib. vii. cap.56.)

§ Trfv ^k "l<nv Trvdofxevrjv dva^riTtiv iv ^dpidi waTtvplvy, to. dk 'iXr] duKTrXsov-
aav. "OOev ovk ddiKti<j^ai rovg iv TraTTvpivoig crxaipecn TrXkovrag vrrb tu>v Kpo-
KoSeiKcovy ri (potovfisviov, rj aetofikvujv did Tr)v Oeov. {De Idde et Osiridej
p. 558.)

326 Oil Vessels made of the Papyrus.

the inside with papyrus. They make one rudder, which
passes through the keel ; and they have a mast formed of the
thorn tree, and sails of the paper reed." *

Of our modern travellers in Africa, Bruce observes : " Pliny
says that the whole plant together was used for making boats,
a piece of the acacia tree being put in the bottom to serve as
a keel ; to which plants were joined, being first sewed together,
then gathered up at stem and stern, and the ends of the plant
tied fast there ; and this is the only boat they still have in
Abyssinia." (Travels, vol. v. p. 6.)

Also, Belzoni describes a curious boat which he hired on the
Lake Moeris, and compares " to old Baris, or boat of Charon
(the boat in which the Egyptians carried their dead to the
grave). The outer shell, or hulk, was composed of rough
pieces of wood, scarcely joined, and fastened by four other
pieces, wrapped together by four more across, which formed
the deck; no tar, no pitch, either inside or out; and the only
preventive against the water coming in was a kind of weed,
moistened, which had settled in the joints of the wood."
(p. 380.)

This vessel bears a great resemblance to the baris of Hero*
dotus, and its seams were in like manner stuffed with a sort
of weed, or reed, which we consider to be the paper reed, the
head or panicle of it being extremely well adapted for filling
up holes and crevices, as Pliny testifies in the following words :
** The filaments or hair of the panicle, beaten and put be-^
tween the joints of ships, cements the weaving, being more
tenacious than glue, and firmer than pitch, in closing up the
leaks." t

Strabo concisely, but very accurately, characterises the plant
thus, " The papyrus is a slender rod, bearing a head of
hair (panicle) on its top " J ; and Pliny likens this head to a
thyrsus (thyrsi modo cacumen).

The ship Baris appears in all the hieroglyphics of Egypt;
and, as the learned Kircher states, " this most celebrated ship
of the Egyptians, Baris, is a sailing vessel made of papyrus,

* 'Ek Trjc aKavBriQ KO-^anivoi ^vka oaov ts Snrrixia, 7r\iv9r}^6v crvvTiOeXcrif
vavTTijyevfievoi rpoirov roiovde' irtpi yofx^ovg ttvkvovq kuI fxaKpovg Trtpuipovai
rd SiTciix^a ^i}\a' kTrkav de rpoTr^ Tovrtj) vavTrrjyfjrrcjvraij ^vyd eTrnroXrig rei-
•X^ovai aifTdv. vofisvai Se ovdev xpkii)VTaC ioojQtv St rag cipjxoviag ev u)v STraKrioaav
Ty (5ut\<i>. TrrjSdXiov Sk ev TTOievvTaiy Kal tovto Sid Trjg rpoiriog SiatvvsTai' i<TTt^
dk aKavOlvqt ')(^p'ni)VTaiy larioiai dk jSvtXivoim. {Euterpe^ cap. 96.)

f Paniculae coma .... contusa et interjecta navium commissuris ferrumi-
nat textus, glutino tenacior, rimisque explendis fidelior pice. (Lib. xvi.
cap. 36.)

J 'H fiiv j3i€Xog i//i\j) pd€6og 'ianv ctt' ae/ay ixovffa xa^rijv. {Geogr, 1, xvii.)

On Vessels made of the Papyrus, 8®>7

according to Plutarch ; which kind, on the testimony of Hero-
dotus, was used in their sacred rites." * It is frequently re^
presented carrying the sacred ox, or Osiris, on board f ; and
there was an annual festival among the Egyptians, in honour
of the ship of Isis.

Likewise, Diodorus Siculus has recorded that " river boats
were built of reed J ; but we would conclude that this reed
(x«Aaju,o^) signifies more correctly the reed papyrus, because
the ^rundo Z)onax ^, generally intended by xaAajxo?, is not so
suitable a plant to construct vessels with, since it is too liable
to split, and is of too brittle a nature.

Strabo, mentioning the marshes and the beds of reeds near
the Euphrates, observes : " From their reeds all sorts of ves-
sels are formed ; those which are fit to receive water are daubed
over with pitch (bitumen), but others are used without any ;
they also make sails of reeds, after the manner of mats or
hurdles," ||

Now, the ark of the child Moses was a small vessel of this
kind, " an ark of bulrushes, and daubed with slime and with
pitch." (Exod-t chap. ii. v. 3.) Clemens. Alexand. {Strom., i.
343.) properly interprets this ark to have been " a vessel of
the indigenous paper reed" (Ix /3/^Xoy tqv siri^ooplov <rxsvo§).

Again, Strabo (Geogr., lib. 16.) says that " rafts made of
reeds " (crp^sS/aj y,ciKoLiJ.iycis) were used on the Lake Sirbonis ;
and Isaac Casaubon remarks that Diodorus calls these
" bundles of reeds " [U(r[^ot$ jcukoii^oiiv).

We learn from Denon that mere bundles of reeds are at
this day in use amongst the people of Upper Egypt, see fig. 89.
which is explained in the following words : — " The manner
of passing the Nile, sitting upon a double bundle of straw,
with a short and double paddle, the legs serving for oars.
The inhabitants of Upper Egypt make their voyages in this
way, going up and down the Nile ; they keep it in the water

* Navis haec celeberrima uEgyptiorum Baris, est navigii papyracei, teste
Plutarclio, genus quo in sacris, Herodoto teste, utuntur. {(Edip. JEgypt.f
vol. iii. cap. 5. p. 138.)

t There is a remarkable coincidence between this religious custom of the
Egyptians and that of the Mexican Americans. The great god and leader
of the Mexicans, called Mexitli, or Vitzliputzli, was carried about in a sacred
ark made of reeds. Compare Faber's Origin of Pagan Idol,, vol. ii. p. 311,,
and Tol. iii. p. 120. 305.

\ 'Ek tov KaXdfiov KareffKevaas TrXoTa Trorafiia. (Bib. Hist.y lib. ii. cap. 17.)

§ According to Dr. Sibthorp, the Jrundo Z)6nax is still called, in modern
Greece, only KuXafio ; and Theophrastus says it was the most common of
the KaXdixoi.

II 'E^ (Lv KoXdfiiva TrXsKerai Travroia (TKfvri, to. fiiv vypov deKTiKoi, ry da^aX-
ry 7repiaXei<j>6vT(oVf toXq d' dXXoig tpiXCiQ ;)(;jOw^£vw v Kai tori'a dk Tcoiovvrai KaXa-
ftiva, j^tdGoif, i) jot^t 7rrt|oa7rX^<rta. (Geogr., lib. x\i,)

328

071 Vessels made of the Papyrus,

two or three hours, even till the sheaf be perfectly soaked
through." *

This faisceau depaille, doubtless, signifies a bundle of straw,
or stalks, of the common Egyptian reed.

^;-:c'3^ "'^'s/'^V-.^.

89

o. Front view of the double bundle of reeds.

ft,' Short double paddle.

Moreover, a later traveller (Belzoni, p. 301.), describing the
inundation of the Nile, says, " some crossed the w^ater with
reeds tied up in bundles ; " and the poet Lucan notices the
same circumstance: "when the Nile overflows, the Memphian
boat is constructed of the thirsty (or soaking) paper reed."

———" Cum tenet omnia Nilus,
Conseritur bibula Memphitis cymba papyro.'

Or, as Rowe has well rendered it,

Lib. iv. 156.

" When fruitful Egypt lies afloat,

The Memphian artist builds his reedy boat.'

Bruce " imagines, also, that the junks (from juncus, a bul-
rush) df the Red Sea, said to be of leather, were first built
with papyrus, and covered with skins." (vol. v. p. 6.) Compare
Herodotus, Clio, chap. 1945., where barks, made of a frame-
work of osiers, and covered with skins, are said to have gone

* Maniere de passer le Nil assis sur un double faisceau de paille, avec
une courte et double rame, les jambes servant d'avirons. Les habitans de
la Haute Egypte traversent ainsi montant et descendant le Nil, ils tiennent
a I'eau deux et trois heures jusqu' a ce que la fascine soit absolument im-
bib^e. [Voyage dans Egypte.)

On Vessels made of the Papyrus.

329

from Armenia to Babylon. Likewise, Belzoni (p. 62.) men-
tions crossing to the Island of Elephantine " in the ferry-boat,

which is made of branches of palm trees, fastened together

with small cords, and covered on the outside with a mat,

pitched all over."

This very simple method of forming a float, SsV/^vj xaAa/xcov,

is evidently most ancient and primeval, and, at the same time

perfectly well adapted for passing and repassing rivers, as well

as for taking short voyages.

But, after a time,
the Egyptian began
to improve his art of
ship-building, by ty-
ing together the ends
of the bundles of
papyrus, in order to
^ give his vessels some-
^ what the shape of a
1^ canoe {Jig, 90.); he
then daubed them
over with pitch, or

covered the reeds with skins or mats (^^.91.); his ropes

he twisted from the

bark of the same ^'

plant, and of which

he made his sails like

matting. (Jig, 92.)

These skiffs being so

light and portable -^

were very swift in

the water, either ^^

when impelled by a "^CIZZ^M

paddle, or by oars,

or with a fair wind.

His larger vessels, or ships of burthen, at first had only a

keel of thorn tree
(Mim5sa nilotica),
and their sides of
the paper reed ; af-
terwards, the frame-
work altogether con-
sisted of that wood,
having their joints
afnd crevices calked
with that plant. Fi-
nally, indeed, his fa-
vourite reedwassuc-
VoL. II. — - No. 9. z

SSO On Vessels made of the Papyrus.

ceeded by the more solid and durable materials, timber, iron,
canvass, hempen ropes, and such like modern equipments.

The curious mosaic pavement discovered in the celebrated
temple of Fortune at Prseneste, now in the Barberini palace
at Rome, represents numerous objects relative to the manners,
customs, and natural history of Egypt and of Ethiopia. It is
engraved and described in the 14th volume of Montfaucon's
Antiquities, Of the above engravingSj Jigs, 88. 90, 91, 92.
exhibit some of the different forms of the ancient Egyptian
vessels, taken from that pavement. Figs. 90, 91, 92. are
three canoes or skiffs made of papyrus ; fig, 91., in particular,
bears a near resemblance to the bundles of reeds atj'f^. 89., and
is tied together with bands in a similar way. These boats are
of the kind called by the Greeks vuvg u[x^i7rpviJiVQc, by the Ro-
mans, navis hiprora, two prowed, having both ends alike; and
are of the shape of a crescent, or half-moon, [^Y|voel^s. Fig. 88.
most probably is meant for the ship Baris, as described by
HerodotuSr Vessels of the same form and nature with these
may be seen in the hieroglyphics, sculptures, gems, intaglios,
and drawings of the ancient Egyptians ; and, according to
Bruce, " this is the only boat they still have in Abyssinia,
which they call Tancoa, and from the use of them it is that
Isaiah describes the nations, probably the Egyptians, upon
whom the vengeance of God was speedily to fall." {Travels,
vol. V. p. 6.)

The passage alluded to here is this {Isaiah, ch. xviii.v. 1,2.):
" Woe to the land shadowing with wings, which is beyond the
rivers of Ethiopia : that sendeth ambassadors by the sea, even
in vessels of bulrushes, upon the waters, saying, Go, ye swift
messengers, to a nation scattered, and peeled ; to a people ter-
rible from their beginning hitherto ; a nation meted out and
trodden down, whose land the rivers have spoiled."

" The vessels of bulrushes," in vasis Goma, here mentioned,
Symmachus, with Aquila and Theodotion, have well trans-
lated— sv g-kb6s<h ^i^Kis, 8/a crxeucov TraTrvpivMV, ev (rxs6s(ri Tra-
■vrvpov, (See Celsii Hierobot,, vol. ii. p. 146.)

Likewise, Bishop Lowth remarks, " it is well known that
the Egyptians commonly used, on the Nile, a light sort of
ships, or boats, made of the reed papyrus."

" ' Go, ye swift messengers ; ' for the papyrine boats were
admirably light. Achilles Tatius relates that they were not
larger than what a person could carry each of them. If they
had been of any other kind, they would stick fast by remaining
in the mud : wherefore it was sufficient for them to have small
and light vessels, and a little quantity of water, so that, if it
ever happened there was no water, they convey the skiff* on

Vji Vessels made of the Papyrus, 331

their shoulders wheresoever they could find any water. {^Ach,
Tat,^ lib. iv. p. 248.) Hence Prudentius against Symmach.
(lib. ii. p. 242.) calls them ' slender barks and weak canoes.'

" The Rabbies observe the same things on this passage of
Isaiah, whose words R. Solomon Ben Melech has abridged
into the following head: — ' Goma has a very light wood;
and our learned men observe that small boats are made of the
paper reed, which are daubed over with pitch, that they may
not admit water ; and which, moreover, may be carried on the
waters with a swift course, by reason of their lightness.' Tre-
mellius and Junius notice ' skiffs constructed of papyrus,
such as the Egyptians and the Ethiopians, near Catadupa, the
cataracts, and dangerous fords, make use of; both because they
were smaller, and also that they gave way to rough waves and
rocks, with which the Nile abounds, and did not split and break
in pieces like wood.' " *

" In this chapter of Isaiah, if Egypt be the country spoken
to," says Bishop Horsley, " ' vessels of bulrushes ' might be
understood of those light skiffs ; but, if the country spoken to
be distant from Egypt, those vessels may only be used as an
apt image of quick-sailing boats of any material."

But the learned and elegant Dr. Lowth adds : " this is one
of the most obscure prophecies of Isaiah : the end and design
of it, the people to whom it is addressed, the person who sends
the messengers, and the nation to whom the messengers are
sent, are all doubtful."

There is one more passage in the Old Testament where
these vessels are alluded to, in the 26th verse of the 9th chap,
of Job, " as the swift ships," or " ships of Ebeh," that is, ac-
cording to Parkhurst, of the Egyptian papyrus, which seems
here to be meant, the woody part of which was anciently used
to build light vessels with. Schultens, also, very ingeniously

* " Ite, leves niintii ; '* nempe fuerunt cymbae papyrinae admirandae levi-
tatis. Refert Achilles Tatius, majores non fuisse, quam ut singulos vectare
possent. Si aliusmodi fuerint, limo praepeditae, retinentur. Qiiare parva
lis ac levia navigia, et exiguae aquae satis sunt : quod si quandoqae aquam
deesse contingat, sublatam humeris naviculam asportant, quousque aquam
inveniant." {Ach. Tat., lib. iv. p. 248.) Inde " tenues cymbas fragilesque
phaselos " appellat Prudentius contra Symmach. (lib. ii. p. 242.)

Eadem ad locum Esaiae annotant Rabbini, quorum verba in summam
contraxit R. Salomon Ben Melech. " Goma est lignum admodum leve.
Et observant doctores nostri b. m. quod ex papyro parva navigia fiant, quae
pice oblinuntur, ne aquam admittant ; quae et jam ob levitatem celeri cursu
in aquis feruntur." Tremellius et Junius : " naviculis e papyro contextis ;
qualibus iEgyptii, iEthiopesque, propter Catadupa, catarhactas, et pericu-
losa vada, utebantur, tum quod breviores essent, tum quod adversis flucti-
bus, scopulisque, quibus Nilus abundat, cederent, ac non dissilirent, aut
frangerentur sicut hgnum." {Celsii Hierobot.f vol. ii. p. 147, 148.)

z 2

332 Anatomy of the Ventriculites ofMdnteh

suggests that Job compares the days of his prosperity, in three
several degrees, with what we esteem the swiftest in the three
elements : namely, with the quick despatches of the post by
land ; with the more expeditious motion of papyrine vessels by
sea; and, which exceeds them both for swiftness, with the
flight of the eagle in the air to his prey. {Chappeloiso,)

Omitting the many and various other uses of the papyrus,
as Theophrastus calls it, 'irpo^ irKeia-rex, xpW^f^^^i I will conclude
these observations in the following words of Dr. Shaw : —
" The vessels of bulrushes, or paper reeds, that are mentioned
both in sacred and profane history, were no other than larger
fabrics of the same kind with that of Moses, which, from the
late introduction of plank and stronger materials, are now (for
the most part) laid aside." (See Travels, p. 437.)

Yours, &c. John Hogg.
St. Peter's College, Cambridge, March 2\, 1829.

Art. VI. On the Anatomy of the Ventriculites of Mantel.
By C. B. Rose, Esq., SwafFham.

Sir,
These fossil bodies were formerly considered to be the
petrified remains of oranges, figs, nutmegs, and mushrooms.
Volkman figured and described one as Nux moschata fructu
rotundo. {Silesice subterranece, tab. 22. f^g, 6.) Scheuschzer
adopted the same figure and description. These opinions
possess some plausibility, if contemplating the external form
only of these remains; and display some advance towards
rational investigation, in comparison with the barbarous no-
tion, of fossils formed " in the sportive moments of Nature ; "
or, " by some latent plastic power of the earth;" or a
fortuitous arrangement of materials.

As natural history became more an object of scientific en-
quiry, so became our views of Nature's works more enlarged ;
and men saw in these remains the components of a once
animated body. About the middle of the last century, M.
Guettard published, in the Mem. Acad. Scien. a Paris, a
memoir entitled " Sur quelques Corps Fossiles peu connus ; "
in which he states that he had examined these bodies, and
found them composed of reticulated coats, and tubes that
passed from the peduncles into their bodies. He was inclined
to think them more allied to Madrepores than ^Icyonia.

Lhwyd, in his Ichnogrdphia, tab. 2. 176., has figured a
Ventriculite somewhat resembling my figure (j%. 100.), and

Anatomy of the Ventriculites of ManteL S3S

designated it an Astroite ; he has reversed the natural position
of the original.

Parkinson in his great work on Oryctology, brought
together all that had been published deserving of notice, relative
to these bodies ; and gave an elaborate account of them, ac-
companied with some investigations of his own ; from which
he was led to conclude they were not ^Icyonia, nor Sponges,
but that there required a new genus to be formed for their
reception. Since that period he has published Outlines of
Oryctology^ in which really multum in parvo work * he has
divided the fossils before known under the common term
^cyonia into four distinct genera, viz. Spongites, Syphonites,
Mantellites f, and Alcyonites.

But to Mantel we are indebted for the most scientific ex-
amination of, and rational conclusions on, the anatomy and
physiology of these organic remains. His observations were
first published in the eleventh Volume of the Trans. Linnean
Society, and afterwards more fully in a very interesting and
excellent work on the fossils of the South Downs. He has
there shown they were the remains of a zoophyte, the general
form of which was that " of a hollow inverted cone, having
numerous ramose fibres proceeding from the base, by which
it was attached to other bodies ; and internally it possessed
a surface covered with the apertures of numerous tubuli, m
all probability the openings of absorbent vessels, by which
its nutrition was effected ; . . . . that the substance of the
original must have been soft and elastic, susceptible of spon-
taneous expansion and contraction." He further observes,
" whatever may have been the nature of its aliment, it seems
probable that it underwent a certain degree of digestion and
assimilation before it was fitted for its support, and that the
nutritious particles were taken up by the openings so nu-
merously distributed on the inner surface of the ventricular
cavity." He was also disposed to believe that, " like the
AXcyhma, and Actiniae, they were permanently fixed to the
rock upon which they grew." Mr. Mantel gave them the ap-
propriate name, Ventriculite, and formed a genus for their
reception, possessing the following characteristics : —

General Character — Body inversely conical, concave, ca-
pable of contraction and expansion ; original substance spon-

* Outlines of Oryctology, &c. by James Parkinson, 1822, from p. 50. to
p. 62.

f The Ventriculites of Mantel. I adopt Mr. Mantel's very appropriate
name for this genus of zoophytes, in preference to the complimentary one
given by Mr. Parkinson, principally for its conveying an idea of a very cha-
racteristic part of it ; yet partly because I consider this fashion in the choicQ
of names should be confined to the trivial or specific name.

z 3

834? Anatomy of the Ventriculites of Mantel.

gious, gelatinous ; external surface reticulated ; internal sur-
face covered with openings or perforated papillae; base
imperforate, prolonged into a stirps, and attached to other
bodies."

The following observations, offered as contributions to the
anatomy of this zoophyte, are the results of repeated examin-
ations of an extensive series of specimens, chiefly impreg-
nated with, and enveloped in, flint. They are in various states
of preservation ; and, although from the fragile nature of the
matrix their structure has been much deranged by fracture,
still I find the silicified remains exhibit the original structure
more distinctly than the calcareous ; and from the former
(except in one instance,^. 100.) I have taken the accompany-
ing sketches.

These bodies are commonly found enveloped in flint,
forming the nucleus of nodules of that substance, and as-
suming various forms, usually pyriform, but occasionally that
of the mushroom ; in the former case, they are readily dis-
tinguished by a spongoid circle bordering the smaller ex-
tremity, which is the margin of the mouth of the contracted
original, and numerous perforations around the opposite
extremity, exposing the terminations of the diverging radical
processes ; in the latter case, the spongoid structure appears
on the margin of the summit, and the perforations at the
bottom of its stalk. Mr. Mantel has given some faithful re-
presentations of these flints in tab. 10. of the work above
referred to ; and he has observed, that, " the margin is marked
with semilunar indentations, the impressions of the fibres of
the external integument; .... these markings are pecu-
liar to the fossils of this genus, and attention to this circum-
stance will frequently enable the collector to distinguish the
silicious specimens of Ventriculites from those of ASpongus
Townsend?."

From my dissections (if I may so term my investigations), I
am led to describe the original zoophyte as constructed of
various coats or layers, which may be separated into an
internal, an external, and a series of concentric lamince,
through which pass transversely, and afterwards longitu-
dinally, a number of tubes destined to contain the materials
for the support and growth of the body. I proceed to de-
scribe these parts separately as they have appeared to me.

Inner Coat, — This appears of a spongious texture, and
lines throughout the ventricular cavity. It is probable that
this coat is nothing more than the inner layer of the reticu-
lated substance forming the chief mass of the animal, having
gelatinous fibres irregularly interwoven, and forming a com-
plete spongiqus texture. In the contracted and elongated

Anatomy/ of the Ventriculites of Mantel*

335

form of the animal, this spongious surface only is exhibited :
but, upon its full expansion, numerous openings appear in all
parts of the surface, regularly arranged in a quincuncial order ;
and in silicipus casts form the papillae described by Mr.
Mantel. I have been so fortunate as to procure some spe-
cimens exhibiting the inner surface uninjured, see figs. 93. and
94?. Fig, 93. is a magnified view of a fragment of a contracted

specimen : a shows the inner surface, not covered with the
openings or mouths of the tubes ; b shows that those tubes
are formed in that portion, appearing on its outer surface, and
probably becoming exposed on its inner surface when the
structure becomes unfolded by expansion or distention. The
figures are magnified views of one fragment ; a the inner

surface, and h the surface broken from the substance of the
body. Fig, 94. exhibits the fossil in about a half degree of ex-
pansion ; a portion of the mineralised animal is seen at the

z 4

336

Anatomy of the Ventriculites of Mantel.

bottom of the conical cavity of a nodule of flint ; and, in this
degree of expansion, the orifices of the tubes still remain con-
cealed ; the cavity of the nodule displays the arrangement of
those orifices, and renders the representation of a fully ex-
panded animal unnecessary. In Mr. Mantel's work (tab. 14.
fig. 1.) a chalk specimen is represented, vi^here the animal is in
complete expansion, exhibiting the perforated papillae. I
possess a similar one in flint.

The concentric lamince compose the chief substance of the
animal ; the inner layers are cribriform, from the passage of
the numerous tubes originating in the ventricular cavity, and
passing transversely, previously to taking their course longi-
tudinally towards the lower extremity or centre of the animal.
These laminae are composed oi fibres passing in a radiated
form, from the centre to the circumference, crossed by others
transversely, and, consequently, in a circular form, and thus
constructing a retiform parenchyma; in the contracted state
of the animal, these fibres are moniliform, being thus ex-
hibited in silicious spe-
cimens, as shown in
fig. 95. a. The con-
centric arrangement of
these layers is exhibited
in a slightly magnified
delineation of a silicious

specimen m my posses-
sion, [fig. 96. ) * It is
difficult to ascertain
the thickness of this
middle texture, or that
of the perfect animal
mineralised ; its remains
varying so much in
density, and in the pro-
portions, or parts pre-
served. Mr. Mantel
says, " this zoophyte,

96 .^-^^^r^ when contracted into a cylindrical form,

is from 1 to 6 in. in length ; when
expanded, its diameter occasionally ex-
ceeds 9 in. ; the thickness of its sub-
stance is seldom more than 0*2 in."
I possess a fully expanded silicious spe-
cimen whose diameter is 7^ in.
The tubes originate in the texture of

It is a transverse section of a specimen in flint.

Anatomtf of the Ventriculites of Mantel,

337

the inner coat, on the surface of tlie ventricular cavity ; they at
first pass transversely through some laminae, and afterwards,
in the contracted state of
the animal, take a longi-
tudinal direction towards
the stirps, or radical pro-
cesses [fig. 97.) ; and
in the expanded state,
towards its centre; they
may be considered as
vessels passing in rays
from the circumference
to the centre, with which
the short transverse tubes
unite in the manner shown
at fg. 9*7. a, A fragment
{fg. 98.) shows silicious
casts of these tubes
broken off in the upper
part of the specimen at
their junction with the
longitudinal vessels ; and,
in the lower part, three
vessels are preserved,
running in an exterior
layer to that of the up-
per part. These tubes
are not mere pores in
a spongious substance,
but true membraneous
hollow cylinders, as distinctly shown in a silicious speci-
men in my collection, and delineated in fig. 99. The tubu-
lar parietes are beautifully preserved by
silicious infiltration. The quincuncial ar-
rangement is displayed in the chalk speci-
men fg. 100. It will be seen, on referring
to^^. 97., that the longitudinal vessels have
anastomosing branches : from the brittle
nature of the matrix, casts of these late-
ral branches are rarely preserved; they
are better preserved in the specimen fg.
101., and appear to occur more frequently about the lower,
than in the upper, part of the animal. These vessels are
continued along the radical processes. In delicately pre-
served specimens, short processes are observed to pass
from the transverse tubes to the substance of the animal, in

33S

Anatomy of the Ventriculites of Mantel,

a somewhat radiated manner, as seen in Jig, 93. b ; and
similar processes pass
from the longitudinal
vessels, but are rarely
well preserved : they
may possibly be mere
membranaceous or
spongious processes,
for the purpose of
keeping the tubes in
situ ; but I am much
more disposed to consider them as tubuli performing the

office of nutrient arte-
^^ ries, and entering the

substance of the ani-
mal to deposit the as-
similated pabulum for
its support.

The External Coat,
— Of the structure of
this coat I have, from
my examinations, been
led to form a different
opinion from that of
Mr. Mantel; he de-
scribes it as " com-
posed of cylindrical
fibres, that extend in
a radiating manner
from a centre or base
to the outer margin,
and, by frequently sub-
dividing and anasto-
mosing, constitute a re-
ticulated integument,
capable ^of very con-
siderable contraction
and expansion. The
fibres are solid, and
when viewed through a lens, exhibit a porous structure,
bearing considerable resemblance to dried sponge. The
meshes, or interstices between the fibres, are narrow and
elongated in the specimens that are expanded, but very ir-
regular in those which are corrugated by contraction. In
some instances, slender transverse filaments extend from one

Anatomy of the Ventriculites of Mantel,

339

101

fibre to another, by which the entire plexus is more firmly
connected together."

The external coat, as it
appears on the best preserved
specimens in my collection,
may with propriety, I think,
be described as composed of
two laminae : the internal
spongious, and if there be any
particular course of its fibres,
it is from the base to the cir-
cumference, but the general
character is a confused dis-
tribution, indeed truly spon-
gious ; it is delineated at the
lower part of the specimen
Jig, 95. h : the external lamina
is a dense tissue, partaking
more of the nature of a coria-
ceous membrane or integu-
ment ; it is extended from the upper margin of the zoophyte
to the base, and continued over the radical processes ; it is so
beautifully delineated on the specimen in the plate given as a
frontispiece to vol. ii. of Parkinson's Organic Remains, that I
have not thought it necessary to increase the number of figures
in this place.

I have with much attention compared Mr. MantePs figures
of the external surface with the specimens I have collected,
and I feel persuaded that what he has given as the external
surface are the concentric laminae, divested by fracture of some
of their exterior laminae at the point where the transverse tubes
terminate. In a state of great condensation by silicious infil-
tration, these concentric laminae are so agglutinated that they
lose all their delicate fibrous character ; the openings in them
for the passage of the transverse tubes vary also in form in
different specimens, being either circular, oval, or rhomboidal ;
and it is these circumstances combined that produce the ap-
pearance of an arrangement of large cylindrical fibres, and
which Mr. Mantel has been led to beheve constitute the exter-
nal covering.

It appears, then, that this zoophyte is in the form of an in-
verted cone, and possesses a single cavity occupying its entire
body, in its contracted and elongated state resembhng the
finger of a glove, in its expanded state becoming a disk ; and
its base terminates in a pedicle that gives off radical processes
{Jg, 100.) by which it affixes itself to other bodies. Its struc-

340 Anatomy of the Ventriculites of Mantel,

ture is, an inner coat, from which arise with open mouths the
transverse tubes that enter a reticulated parenchyma in concen-
tric layers {the concentric lamince) constituting the chief sub-
stance of the animal, and this parenchyma is enveloped in an
external coat, the exterior of which possesses the character of
a coriaceous and elastic integument.

Of the economy of these various parts, we may fairly con-
clude that the cavity is ventricular, for the reception of the
animars food, and in which it is digested : the tubes are a sort
of receptdcula chyli, in which the nutrient particles, absorbed
by their open mouths, are assimilated and conveyed to all
parts of the animal, and afterwards deposited in the substance
for its support and growth, by the tubuli radiating from the
larger vessels : the concentric lamince are the portion of the
animal which possesses the function of contraction and expan-
sion ; I am led to conclude these properties reside in this tex-
ture rather than in the external integument, from the monili-
form state of the reticular fibres of these laminae when under
contraction ; an appearance never observed (that I am aware
of) in the texture of the external coat, and, therefore, the ex-
ternal integument I consider as little more than a defence to the
softer parts beneath it. The pedicles are similarly constructed
to the body, except that the ventricular cavity is not extended
into them, and consequently the inner coat makes no part of
their structure.

In our specimens the different parts are found in various
states of preservation,, and exhibit varying features according
with the portion of structure that may be exposed to view.
The pyriform and fungiform nodules of flint before mentioned,
upon fracture with a well-directed blow of the hammer, some-
times afford you a complete cast of the ventricular cavity, ex-
hibiting the arrangement of the open mouths of the absorbent
vessels ; but, in many instances, the organic body is so infil-
trated with silicious matter, that all traces of organisation are
obliterated, and you can only distinguish the outline of the
substance, and its ventricular cavity, by the different shades
of colour of the mineralised body and its matrix ; the former
sometimes having a reddish brown colour, at other times a grey
or lighter shade than the usual black of the latter. In some
cases, the organised body is less impregnated with silex, and
being usually hydrophanous, the spongious texture is beauti-
fully displayed on wetting the specimen with water.

It remains for me now but to enquire in what portion of the
scale of animated nature, we are to place this organic remain.
Mr. Mantel was " led to conclude that the Ventriculites were

Anatomy of the Ventriculites of Mantel. 341

more nearly related to the Actiniae than to the ^Icyonia, and
that each individual was a perfect animal *, capable of perform-
ing those motions which were necessary for its preservation
and assistance." 1 perfectly agree with this gentleman ; and
when we consider its structure and economy, and, particularly,
that this zoophyte does not appear to have possessed tenta-
cula, this simple expansive pouch must be placed among the
gelatinous zoophytes, below the Actinia and ii/ydra. The
Ventriculites are met with in this country, in every part of the
chalk formation, from the uppermost beds to the grey chalk-
marl.

I must defer my observations on the species of this genus
to a future leisure.

Yours, &c.

C. B. Rose.
November 10. 1828.

* Mr. Miller, the author of the elaborate work on the Crinoidea " thinks
this opinion is erroneous, and that each ventriculite should be regarded as
an aggregation of polypes." I cannot but think, that when this talented
and indefatigable naturalist has given to this fossil body the same minute
and patient examination he bestowed on the Encrinites, he will coincide
with us.

342

PART 11.

REVIEWS.

Art. I. Picture of Organised Nature^ in its spreading over the
Earth. By Wilbrand and Ritsen. Pamphlet, in 12mo,
pp.90., and a Map, or Picture, 2 ft. by 4 ft. 3 in., coloured.
London. Translated from the German. 15*.

With every disposition to profit from this pictorial view of
organised nature, we fear we have not been very successful.
The object of the production is useful, as leading to compre-
hensive views ; but the plan not sufficiently clear and obvious
for general comprehension. The authors, as it appears to us,
have failed in their objects, by endeavouring to show the in-
fluence of two laws, latitude and elevation, in one picture,
instead of making use of two pictures. The distribution of
organised beings, according to the laws of latitude, would have
been rendered clearer by writing the natural orders on a map
of the world on a large scale ; and their distribution, accord-
ing to the law of elevation jointly with latitude, by sections
of the principal mountains of the different zones of both hemi-
spheres ; or by sections of an imaginary mountain for each
zone. Useful general ideas, we think, might be communi-
cated in this way ; but the only effectual manner to convey
through the eye a correct knowledge of the geographical dis-
tribution of plants and animals, is by devoting a map of the
world to each particular order. As natural history advances,
and the art of writing books on it improves, it may become
the practice to accompany the description of each particular
order, or even genus, with a map, and sections of the earth's
surface, and the proportion and particular parts of them occu-
pied by that order or genus delineated and rendered conspi-
cuous. Thus, supposing the geographical distribution of any
order, any Dulgodiaceae for instance, were to be delineated, the
place which that order occupied on the flat or general surface of
the earth, i. e. its distribution according to the laws of latitude,
would be represented by shading, or marking with colours or
dots on the plan ( fig, \02» a b c d) ; and its distribution in both

Picture of Orgmiised Nature,

343

hemispheres, according
to the law of elevation,
by similar markings on
the elevations of the ty-
pical mountains where it
was found {fg). Types
might be formed for the
printer, representing
skeleton maps and sec-
tions, such as we have
described ; and the situ-
ation of the order or

genus might be filled in >^^^^ aT

with other types representing dots, so that this description of
illustration would cost little more than common printing. The
distribution of plants and animals, according to the laws of
soil and civilisation, is of much less consequence, and much
more easily described and remembered, than their geographi-
cal distribution.

We shall now endeavour to give some idea of the plan
adopted by MM. Wilbrand and Ritsen. A correct idea
of their picture may be formed by imagining our figures
103. and 104. joined in one by the linear. These figures,
when joined together, represent an island of mountains rising
out of the ocean, with imaginary straight lines radiating from a
centre, and imaginary elliptical lines forming parallels above
and below the base line of the island.

The Chimborazo mountain {Jig, 104. b) is the highest in the
centre ; the Himalaya mountains of Asia {Jig, 103. c\ upwards
of 25,000 ft. in altitude, are the highest to the left ; and the Des-
cabezado {Jig, 104. d\ in Chile, is the highest to the right. The
snow line, or that which in every part of the globe sets the limit
to organised beings, as regulated by latitude, begins at 75° N. L.
{fg, 103. e\ and 60° S. L. {Jig. 104./) ; as governed by eleva-
tion, it begins under the equator at a perpendicular height of say
17,000 ft. {fgs. 103. and 104. g) ; in the 19° N. L. 15,000 ft.,
in the 35° N. L. 11,000 ft., in the 43° N. L. 8,600 ft., in 62*»
N. L. 6000 ft., gradually decreasing to 75° N.L., where it is at
a level with the sea. The snow line in the southern hemi-
sphere, whether as influenced by latitude or elevation, is little
known ; but in the picture it is regulated so as to harmonise
with the line in the northern hemisphere, and with such facts
as have been discovered. The sea at both poles is covered
with ice; in the southern hemisphere {Jig, 104. h) in a larger,
in the northern (Jig. 103. i) in a smaller, proportion. The land,
if any exists under this ice, is without organised life, except in

344

Wilbrand and Ritsen^s

some parts where the snow melts, and exposes the surface
rocks or soil a part of the year. There minute lichens adhere
to the surface, and animals, chiefly insects and birds, are occa-
sionally found ; but where the surface is enveloped with eter-
nal snow, vegetation ceases, animals die, and the inquisitive
disposition of man terminates.

' " But besides this perpetual line of snow, there is another,
constantly varying according to the seasons. In the northern
hemisphere, after the autumnal equinox, this line gradually
becomes lower; being in the winter, according to circum-
stances, even in the middle of the temperate zone, at the level
of the sea; on the contrary, in the southern hemisphere, as
the sun reaches the southern tropic, the line rises, till it joins
the perpetual snow ; and as the sun returns towards the
northern tropic, it again gradually descends towards the sea.
Thus organic life fluctuates perpetually from north to south,
and from south to north. It is this varying line of snow which
intimates to birds of passage their time of migration,"

In the picture, the detached mountains, as well as conti-
nuous ranges, which are, in the five parts of the globe, elevated
above the perpetual line of snow, are delineated according to
their latitude, and their names and height are marked on them ;
but of course in such a picture it is impossible to give any
idea of their longitude. Thus the Himalaya Mountains of
Asia {fig, 103. c), the highest in the world, are placed between

Picture of Organised Nature*

345

the 30° and 40° N. L. from the meridian, or centre of the
picture {a a) ; and Mount Etna, a small part of which is above
the summit of the snow line, is shown in 37° N. L. {Jig. 103. k),
with a part of the Mediterranean Sea at its base {fig, 103. /). To
preserve a sort of harmony in the appearance of the picture,
a line {eaaf) is drawn to represent the boundary of organic

life in the depths of the ocean. " Whether in the sea there
be depths where no creature is able to live, or whether a
boundary be assigned to organic life within those depths, can-
not be ascertained. It, however, clearly appears from the
observations made by Biot, and other naturalists, that fishes,
according to their different dispositions, live in different depths
of the ocean." Curved lines parallel to this line of depth are
drawn, to correspond with the parallels on the Iand> which
are drawn to coincide with the snow line ; but it is evident
they must be almost entirely imaginary.

As the equator appears to be the centre of organic vigour,
from which the vivifying principle of heat extends to all parts
of the organic world, so lines are drawn from an imaginary
point im) representing the equator, and on these lines the
natural orders of plants and animals are marked ; the lines
being thickened ( x ) where the order is supposed to be most
abundant. These lines being supposed movable, like the
radii of a circle, are intended to point out by the space they
would traverse in their imaginary motion, the district withii\

Vol. II. — No. 9.

A A

346 . Wilhrand and Ritsen*s

which the order, tribe, or family, either is found exclusively,
or more particularly ; or to which they might be transferred
by man with the greatest probability of success. Thus the
Zamiae, or palm ferns (Jig. 103. 7i\ which are found between
20° and 30° N. L. will be found, or might live, in the same
parallel (n op q) in both hemispheres, but not at an elevation
exceeding 3000 ft., even in the torrid zone. In other words,
the geographical range of that order is between 20° and 25**
N. and S. L., and its range in regard to elevation in this zone
is under 3000 ft. The disadvantage of this pictorial plan is,
that it does not indicate to what extent Zamia is found in its
peculiar latitude in either hemisphere, nor, indeed, whether it
is found in the southern hemisphere at all.

The general extension of the vegetable kingdom over the
globe is shown on the left-hand half of the picture, and of the
animal kingdom on the right-hand half; the inhabitants of the
sea are shown on both halves of the flat surface {ieaafh\
representing the ocean.

All plants and animals inhabit either water, or air, or both ;
in the water they are in a lower, in the air in a higher,
degree of perfection. " The greatest luxuriance of organic
life is in the plains of the torrid zone, at the level of the sea."
Hence life fluctuates, according to the climate and the sea-
sons, to the line of perpetual snow both in the northern and
the southern hemisphere.

In taking a view of the distribution of vegetables, we find
the Acotyledones in all climates ; in the torrid and temperate
zones as tree ferns, and at the snow line, on the boundaries of
organic existence, as iichenes of diminutive size. Monoco-
tyledonous plants are found most frequently, and in greatest
luxuriance towards the torrid zone, characterising vegetation
at the level of the sea at the equator by palms, bamboos, and;
scitaminous or reedy plants. Dicotyledonous plants are more
uniformly spread over the whole surface of the earth; but stilV|
herbaceous plants are prevalent towards the snow line, and
arboreous ones in warmer countries. All marine plants are
Acotyledones, and among these the jP^ci and [/Ivae are the
most generally diffused. They extend from the equator to
the region of perpetual ice, but grow principally in the seas
of warmer climates. The acotyledonous plants which come
nearest to the monocotyledonous are the genera Zemna, Cer-
atophyllum, Jkfyriophyllum, and Chara, which form the na-
tural order Naiades ; these are common inhabitants of fresh
water in the temperate zone.

Of all monocotyledonous plants, and even of all flowering
plants, the grasses are the most abundant, the most universally

Picture of Organised Nature. 34>7

distributed, and those which extend the nearest to the snow
line. Grassy plains are found in the torrid, temperate, and
frigid zones, adjoining the region of lichens. Next to the
grasses, the monocotyledonous order Orchideae is, perhaps,
the most universally distributed. It occurs in Lapland at
800 ft. below the snow line, and abounds as epiphytes in the
woods of the torrid zone. " It is remarkable that the Orchi-
deae, like the lichens, keep on the ground in the cold and
temperate zones, but grow out of the stems of trees, as para-
sitical plants, in the torrid zone.'* The ^sphodeleae are almost
as far diffused as the Orchideae, and next the order ^sparagineae,
the ^roideae, the liliaceous plants, the /rideae, the Hydro-
charideae, the Jiinceae, and the Cyperdide<£.

Dicotyledonous plants have a large proportion of shrubs
and trees, while the Monocotyledoneae have very few, and the
Acotyledones scarcely any. Of all the Dicotyledoneae, the
(Saxifrageae occur most frequently, and in the greatest numbers
on the snow line ; thence they extend, as herbaceous plants,
towards the temperate zone, where the only shrubs and trees
that have any affinity to them are Hydrangea and Weinman-
nia, Caryophylleae are in general peculiar to the cold and
temperate zones, and also Gentidnece and i2anunculaceae.
Labiatae spread to a great extent, beginning in the vicinity of
the snow line with A'juga alpina, and passing thence to the
torrid zone, increasing in number, magnitude, and beauty.
The Cruciferae, or podded plants, begin with some herbs at
the snow line, and extend over the cold, and greater part of
the temperate, without reaching the torrid, zone. This order
probably reaches its utmost perfection between 50° and 60^
north latitude. Legumin^sae, a very numerous order, begin
near the snow line, and extend, with a continually increasing
abundance, over the temperate and warm zones, where they
produce tall trees with winged leaves and beautiful blossoms.
Many of the alimentary herbs of the temperate zones are of
this order, as clover, peas, beans, &c. The Syngenesious plants,
or plants with combined anthers, are for the most part herba-
ceous, and are spread over the whole earth, attaining their
greatest perfection in the temperate zone. The Umbelliferae
commence at some distance from the snow line in herbaceous
plants, and spread over the temperate zone to the warmer
climates, increasing in that direction in number, size, and
beauty. Umbelliferous plants are seldom found nearer the
equator than 30°. The Scrophularineae are herbaceous at
some distance from the snow line, and in the temperate zone,
and become shrubby in the torrid zone. J?osaceae commence
with herbs at the snow line, and, in the temperate zone, in-

A A 2

348 . Wilbrand and Ritsen^s

elude some of our principal shrubs and fruits. The Amenta-
ceae consist of shrubs and trees, beginning with 5'alix herbacea
in the neighbourhood of the snow line, and extending to the
leaf-wood forests of the temperate zone, terminating again with
the jSalix babylonica at the equator. The Coniferae begin with
the juniper, at the same distance from the snow line as the
Amentaceae, and end in the warm countries with the Casuarina ;
the order is in the greatest perfection at 50° N. L. Capri-
fcMiae commence at some distance from the snow line, with
Corn us and Linnae^«, and extend through the temperate zone,
with Lonicer^, »Sambucus, &c., to the torrid zone, where large
groups of trees are formed by Rhizophora Mangle. iJoraginese
extend from the limit of snow to the torrid zone ; Onagreas
from the snow line to the warm countries, where they are in
the greatest degree of perfection at 40? N. L. JEriceae com-
mence in the vicinity of the snow line, and increase towards
the warmer countries in variety, size, and beauty ; the most
luxuriant are in the African islands, and the greatest variety at
the Cape of Good Hope. Geraniaceae begin in Lapland with
Geranium sylvaticum, and terminate among the jBriceae in
the warmer parts of the temperate zone. jKubiaceae com-
mence with Galium boreale, some degrees south of the snow
line, and pass into the torrid zone, where they contain the
coffee, &c. ikfalvaceae and /Solaneae are found both in the
temperate and torrid zone. Convolvulaceae commence in the
vicinity of the snow line with herbs, continue herbaceous in
the temperate countries, and end with some shrubs within the
tropics, t/rticeae begin with the common nettle, on the plains
of Lapland, and end with the fig and bread fruit in the torrid
zone. Cucurbitaceae begin with the .Bryonia in 58° N. L.,
and increase in perfection, through Cucumis, to the passion
flowers on the boundary of the torrid zone, ^pocyneae are of
similar extension. Papaveraceae spread over the temperate
zone, and also Jasmineae, commencing with the privet, and
ending with Nyctanthus. The Cacti are almost exclusively
natives of the warm zone. The Z/aurineas and ilfyrtacea?
extend from the torrid to the middle of the temperate zone.
Sapindaceae, Melastomaceae, ik/eliae, Guttiferae, Aurantiae, and
-Ficbideae belong chiefly to the torrid zone. We pass over a
number of small orders, the distribution of which will be found
exactly indicated in the second part of our Hortus Britminidus,
Animals differ from plants, in not adhering or being bound
to the soil. They change the country they inhabit in an arbi-
trary manner, and the more so as they approach man in per-
fection. Man extends through all the zones, passes beyond
the limit of eternal snow, and descends into the earth, below

; Picture of Organised Nature. 34-9

the limits of terrestrial life. Next to man, in partaking of life,
are the mammalia, birds, amphibia, fishes, molliisca, insects,
worms, and zoophytes. A certain portion of the earth is
appointed to each class, order, or genus, and particularly to
each species of animal. In such situations only does each
species display its particular properties. A sufficient know-
ledge of an animal's condition cannot be learned, unless that
animal be considered relatively to its own peculiar and natural
situation. " The polar bear lives only on and between the
frozen plains of the north pole; the lion, only in Africa's
burning deserts. The inhabitants of the snow line of the
mountains, between the tropics, never descend to the warm
level, nor do those of the level ascend the mountains as far as
the snow line ; each altitude having its peculiar animals. The
mammalia remain always in their native country, during the
whole year ; but birds are subjected to the change of seasons.
They for the most part keep at a certain distance from the
snowline; and, in the northern hemisphere, accordingly mi-
grate, at the fall of the year, southward, following the apparent
motion of the sun, and flying from the approaching fall of
snow ; but they return in the spring, as fast as the receding
snow line will permit. Subjected to the caprice of nature,
their dwelling-place is much limited, although the very same
species seem to extend over immense districts." The native
country of the more perfect animals is better known than that
of many genera of plants, though this part of the study of
natural history was paid little attention to before Humboldt
enumerated the animals of the tropics, conformably to the dif-
ferent altitudes at which they live above the level of the sea.

The marine mammalia are met with in all the seas of the
world, but principally in the polar seas. Quadruped land
mammalia extend from the snow line to the torrid zone. Apes
and monkeys belong to the torrid zone, but extend over a
small part of the temperate zone. The whale (^alae na) belongs
chiefly to the frozen sea. The spermaceti whale (Physeter)
chiefly inhabits the seas of the southern hemisphere. The
unicorn fish (Monodon) inhabits the same seas as the whale.
The dolphin is found in all seas, but chiefly in the north ; the
walrus and the seal in the frozen seas of both hemispheres.
Ruminating mammalia are common to those parts of the earth
of which the grasses are native. The hart family (Cervus)
extends from the snow line to the torrid zone ; the reindeer and
the elk being the most northern species, and the Mexican roe
and hart of the Andes the most southern. The camels of the
Old World belong to the warmer half of the temperate zone ;
those of the New World, including the lamas, to the grassy

A A 3

SoO " ' Wilbrand and Ritsen's

plains of the Andes. The ox tribe abounds in the middle of
the temperate zones of both hemispheres, but they are domes-
ticated as far north as 60°, and buffaloes are found in the
torrid zone. Sheep and goats extend from the snow line to
the torrid zone, but extend in the greatest perfection over the
colder half of the temperate zone. The horse is common to
temperate and warm climates, and is found wild in Arabia and
Java. The limit to the spreading of the horse by domestica-
tion is 66^ north latitude.

Carnivorous animals extend over all the zones, but are
most numerous and terrific under the scorching sunbeams of
the torrid zone. The dog extends from the limit of per-
petual snow to the torrid zone in both hemispheres, ter-
minating with the jackall and hyaena. The bear belongs to
the coldest half of the temperate zone, but some species are
found in the Andes. The cat genus is fiercest and most
numerous in the hottest countries of the globe ; towards the
middle of the temperate zone it diminishes into the wild cat.
*' In Kamtchatka, Greenland, Lapland, and Iceland, there
are no cats, nor does the lynx in Europe extend farther than
Norway." The civets and weasel belong to the torrid and
the warmer half of the temperate zone ; sables, martens, er-
mines, storks, and the common weasel, spread northwards in
great numbers, but as they prefer woody tracts they are sel-
dom found beyond 70° north latitude. Moles, shrews, and
hedgehogs inhabit both the temperate and torrid zones. The
common mole lives throughout Europe, in Barbary, and in
Northern Asia. The common hedgehog lives in the warmer
parts of Europe ; it is found in Norway, but not in Lapland
or Iceland. Opossums inhabit the warm countries of Ame-
rica and New Holland. Bats extend over the whole earth.
Dormice are most numerous in the torrid, but are also fre-
quent in the temperate, zone. The families of mice, squirrels,
and hares are found in every part of the habitable globe.
Beavers belong to the colder half of the temperate zone,
cavies to the warmer parts of the New World, porcupines
to the warmest part of the temperate zones of both hemi-
spheres. The swine genus is much diffused ; it belongs to the
warmer half of the temperate zones, but extends in a wild
state beyond 60° north latitude, and domesticated to 63° north
latitude.

Marine birds, of both hemispheres, are most abundant in
the polar seas, and among the icy plains on the limits of
organic life. The tropical birds (Phaetow) inhabit the regions
between the tropics. The albatross (Z)iomedea) inhabits the
seas of the frigid and temperate zones of both hemispheres.

Picture of Organised Nature, 351

Pelicans are found over the three zones of both hemispheres,
and in fresh water as well as in the sea. Gulls and cormo-
rants are peculiar to the northern hemisphere. Ducks and
geese are spread over the whole earth, but are most numerous
in the colder half of the temperate zone. Moorfowl, and
other Grallae, spread over both hemispheres, from the snow
line to the torrid zone. Herons are plentiful in the temperate
and warm zones. The common rail is met with in most
countries in Europe, and in North America. The plover
spreads over the zones of both hemispheres as far as the snow
line. The snipe appears to be peculiar to the northern
hemisphere, and the /'bis Tantalum, which is related to the
snipe, is numerous in warm countries.

The land birds, Fultur and Falco, extend over both hemi-
spheres, perhaps even farther than the snow line. The owl
is spread over all the habitable parts of the globe. The
butcher bird is found in the warm and temperate zones of
both hemispheres. The parrots, a numerous family, are
almost confined to the tropical regions. Ravens, like owls, are .
spread over both hemispheres. Nuthatches, bee-eaters, and
humming-birds, chiefly belong to warm climates. Sparrows are
diffused over the whole of the habitable globe, but are most
abundant in the warm zone. The family of finches is very
abundant in the colder parts of the temperate zone. The
nightingale is met with throughout Europe, from Sweden to
Greece, and also in Siberia. The family of the thrush extends
from the temperate to the warm zones. The family of larks
inhabit the warm countries, but the field lark is found in
Kamtchatka. Swallows spread over the frigid, temperate,
and torrid zones. " Our chimney swallow (Hiriindo domes-
tica) is found from Norway to the Cape of Good Hope, from
Kamtchatka to India and Japan ; and in all the regions of
North America. The house marten [H, urbica) is found in
Europe and America: the swift marten {H, A^ns) inhabits
the whole of Europe, and is met with at the Cape of Good
Hope, and in North America." Hens, partridges, and wood-
cocks are diffused over all the zones, and met with near the
snow line. Pigeons inhabit both hemispheres as far as 60°,
Pheasants do not extend beyond 46° north latitude. The
domestic hen lives in Greenland, but does not breed there,
or in any cold country. It is found in its wild state in the
forests of India. The turkey is wild in the woods of America,
and the peacock in those of Africa and Asia.

Frogs and toads are the most numerous amphibia in the
colder portion of the temperate zone, and lizards are the most
numerous in the direction of the snow line : but lizards

A A 4

S52 "Faiina Boredli- Americana,

belong chiefly to the torrid zone, because there they attain
their greatest size as crocodiles. Most snakes are natives of
the torrid zone, but some species are spread throughout
Europe. Tortoises are peculiar to the warm parts of the
temperate zone.

Fish, whether of land waters or the ocean, gradually
increase in number, size, appearance, and quickness, from the
cold to the torrid zones. Marine fish, by swimming under
the ice, approach nearer to the poles than any other animals,
or than plants.

Insects are handsomest and largest in the torrid zone ; but
they are spread over every part of both hemispheres, and
winged insects sometimes pass beyond the snow line.

Crabs and shellfish are met with in Greenland, and in the
southern hemisphere beyond 80°. How far they are diffused
in the intermediate space cannot be ascertained.

Snails and worms of the land and of fresh water approach
near the snow line, and are most numerous in the temperate
zone. Mollusca and worms of the sea are most plentiful
within the tropics, where they attain the largest size ; but they
are also found in the snow line. Marine zoophytes, and
especially coral polypes, are peculiar to the seas between the
tropics, where the beds of coral in time become islands ; but
zoophytes are also found about Iceland and Greenland.

Art. II. Catalogue of Works on Natural History, lately published,
with some Notice of those considered the most interesting to British
Naturalists,

Britain.

Fauna Boreali-Americana, or the Zoology of the Northern Parts of British
America ; containing Descriptions of the Objects of Natural History
collected on the late Northern Expeditions, under the Command of
Capt. Sir John Franklin, R.N. By John Richardson, M.D. F.R.S.F.L.S.,
Member of the Wernerian Natural History Society of Edinburgh, and
Foreign Member of the Geographical Society of Paris, Surgeon and Na-
turalist to the Expeditions ; assisted by William Swainson, Esq. F.R.S.
F.L.S. &c., and the Rev. William Kirby, M.A.F.R.S. F.L.S. &c. Illus-
trated by numerous Plates. Published under the Authority of the Right
Hon. the Secretary of State for Colonial Affairs. London. Murray.
1829. pp. 500.

The volume at present before us has been expected from its highly
talented author with the most intense interest, not only by those more
immediately attached to zoology for the valuable additions to that science
which it was certain of making, but by all who, remembering the dreadful
privations and acute sufferings of the party of which Dr. Richardson was

Farina Boreali- Americana, 353

one of the few survivors, felt a wish to contemplate in a complete form how
much had been achieved by men surrounded with such difficulties as, to
minds less ardent in the pursuit of knowledge, would have proved insur-
mountable barriers to its attainment.

From the Zoological Appendix to Captain Franklin's First Voyage, by
Mr. Sabine, and from several brief scientific notices of the new species and
genera of animals met with in both expeditions, published in the Zoological
Journal, we were in a great measure prepared for the contents of this
work. In general such preparation in the reader is disadvantageous to
the author, by raising the expectations of the former too high to be
satisfied : but, in this instance, such is decidedly not the case ; for, whe-
ther we consider the condensed mass of novel information, the number
of species for the first time introduced to our systems, the accuracy of
the scientific details, the beauty and correctness of the illustrations, and
the whole appearance of the book, it reflects the highest degree of credit
upon the authors, the artist, and the government, the liberality of which
we are most happy to see extended to the rewarding of meritorious perse-
verance, and to the diffusing over the world that knowledge which English-
men especially love to acquire, and which England, of all the nations upon
the face of the globe, possesses the greatest power of accumulating.

In the Introduction the general plan of the work is detailed, by which
Ave learn, with pleasure, that the present is only the first of a series of
volumes, which will embrace the whole zoology and botany of the districts
visited by the expeditions. In furtherance of this useful and laborious de-
sign 500/. has been appropriated by government to defray the expense of
publication of the first two portions, which consist of the Mammalia (the
present volume) containing twenty-seven plates, and of the Birds which will
be illustrated by fifty coloured ones ; and to the Fishes, Insects, and Plants,
an equal sum has been dedicated.

A condensed and simple sketch of the districts traversed by the voyagers
forms the bulk of the Introduction, which, by furnishing lists of the qua-
drupeds found in each, presents a most valuable table of their geographical
distribution in this part of America, and forms a clue to the observations
upon that most difficult of all questions in the science, the discrimination
between species and mere varieties produced by difference in climate and
food, which are scattered through the body of the work.

After describing the rapidity with which the expeditions passed to the
north-eastern arm of Lake Huron, and the consequent impossibility of col-
lecting more than a very few animals during that stage of their progress,
the author informs us that, " with these slight exceptions, the specimens
brought to England were entirely collected to the north of the Great Ca-
nada Lakes, beyond the settled parts of Upper Canada, and, in fact, in a
widely extended territory, wherein the scattered trading posts of the Hud-
son's Bay Company furnish the only vestiges of civilisation.'' The work
may therefore be termed Contributions to a Fauna of the British-American
Fur Countries.

This territory is artificially divided into five districts : —

1. The Rocky Mountains (the Shining Mountains of Pennant), which
are supposed by Dr. Richardson to be continuations of the Andes, giving
rise to the four principal rivers, Columbia, Missouri, Saskatchewan, and
Mackenzie, besides many smaller streams. They contain 1 species of bat,
1 shrew, 12 carnivorous quadrupeds, 21 gnawers (Rod^ntia), 5 deer, 1 goat,
1 sheep, and the bison.

2. The Barren Grounds, so named from their containing no wood, form the
north-eastern corner of America, bounded on the west by the Copper Mine
River, the Great Slave, Athapescow, Wollaston, and Deer Lakes ; on the
south by the Churchill, or Mississippi River ; and on the north and east by
the sea. " Being destitute of fur-bearing animals, no settlements have been

S54 Faiaia Boreali-Americana,

formed within the Barren Grounds by the traders, and a few wretched
families of Chipewyans, termed from their mode of subsistence * Caribou-
eaters,' are the only human beings who reside constantly upon them. Were
any one to penetrate into their lands, they might address him with pro-
priety in the words used by the Lapland woman to Linnaeus, when he
reached her hut, exhausted by hunger and the fatigue of travelling through
interminable marshes, " O, thou poor man ! what hard destiny can have
brought thee hither to a place never visited by any one before ? This
is the first time I ever beheld a stranger. Thou miserable creature ! how
didst thou come, and whither wilt thou go ?" (Introd. p. xxiv.) This in-
hospitable tract furnishes 9 species of Carnlvora, including bears and foxes,
9 gnawers, a variety of the reindeer, and the musk ox.

3. The Eastern District, lying between the western border of a range of
low primitive rocks, which skirt the Barren Grounds, and the coast of Hud-
son's Bay, contains 2 cr 3 bats, 3 shrews, 1 7 Carnivora, including a few
Jkfustelae, 1 2 Rod^ntia, among which are the the flying squirrels, the elk and
reindeer.

4. The Limestone Tract, in which, being well wooded and well watered,
fur-bearing animals are abundant, is inhabited by 1 bat, 3 Insectlvora, 17
Carnivora, 15 Rod^ntia, including the Canada porcupine, the elk, rein-
deer, and bison.

5. Prairie Land, situated between the Limestone District and the Rocky
Mountains. This " is in general level, the slight inequalities of surface
being imperceptible when viewed from a distance ; and the traveller, in
crossing it, must direct his course by the compass or the heavenly bodies,
in the same way as if he were journeying over the Deserts of Arabia. The
soil is mostly dry and sandy, but tolerably fertile ; and it supports a pretty
thick sward of grass, which furnishes food to immense herds of bisons. The
abundance of pasture renders these plains the favourite resort of various;
ruminating animals. They are frequented throughout their whole extent
by buffalo and wapiti. The prong-horned antelope is common on the
Assinaboyn, or Red River, and the southern branch of the Saskatchewan,
and extends its range in the summer to the northern branch of the latter
river. The black-tailed deer, the long-tailed deer, and the grisly bear, are
also inhabitants of the plains, but do not wander further to the eastward."
(p. xxviii. et seq.)

^ The quadrupeds found in the Prairies are 3 species of Carnfvora, con-
sisting of the genera ZJ'rsus and Clmis; 7 Rod^ntia; the horse, in herds,
having wandered from the neighbourhood of Mexico ; 4 deer ; the prong-
horned antelope ; and the bison.

The species described in the work are 92 in number, of which 22 were
nearly unknown to science prior to Dr. Richardson's examination of them,
Mr. Sabine and himself having, with the greatest care and accuracy, com-
pared the specimens with the description and figures of former travellers
and scientific writers, in many instances confirming and amplifying the slight
notices of them by Lewis and Clarke, Ord, Say, &c., and in others either
demonstrating their entire novelty, or fixing, as far as the present state of
zoological knowledge will allow, their situations in a natural system. To
attempt the further compression of so condensed a work, would be a hope-
less labour ; we can therefore present our readers with little more than a
few notices of the rarer animals, and very limited extracts from the inter-
esting anecdotes and judicious observations of the author.

The two bats described by Dr. Richardson have both been named by Say.
Of the three shrews, two are new, but are uninteresting, except for their
novelty. Of the shrew-mole (Scalops canadensis), the following history is
given : — " The shrew-mole resembles the common European mole in its
habits, in leading a subterraneous life, forming galleries, throwing up little
mounds of earth, and in feeding principally on earthworms and grubs. Dr,

Fauna Boredli-Ainericdm* 355

Godman has given a detailed and interesting account of their manners,
particularly of one which was domesticated by Mr. Titian Peale. He men-
tions that they are most active early in the morning, at mid-day, and in the
evening, and that they are well known in the country to have the custom
of coming daily to the surface exactly at noon. They may then be taken
alive by thrusting a spade beneath them, and throwing them on the sur-
face ; but can scarcely be caught at any other period of the day. The cap-
tive one in the possession of Mr. Peale ate considerable quantities of fresh
meat, either cooked or raw, drank freely, and was remarkably lively and
playful, following the hand of its feeder by the scent, burrowing for a
short distance in the loose earth, and, after making a small circle, returning
for more food. When engaged in eating he employed his flexible snout
in a singular manner to thrust the food into his mouth, doubling it so as to
force it directly backwards." (p. 12.)

As we are in possession of various excellent accounts of the forms, man-
ners, and habits of the American bears, it would be superfluous to extract
any of the author's observations upon them, they pnncipally confirming
the information previously derived from Hearne, Lewis and Clarke, &c.,
except to notice that, according to the statements of Dr. Richardson, the
carnivorous propensity of the bears of America is diametrically opposite to
that of those of Europe, the Brown Bear in the former country living
more on flesh than the black species. This observation principally relates
to a brown variety, much resembling the Norway Bear, which inhabits the
Barren Grounds, and has, by Hearne and others, been confounded with the
Grisly Bear ( C/^'rsus ferox). The following short anecdote presents us with
a characteristic trait of the simplicity of some of the natives of these re-
gions : — " Keskarrah, an old Indian, was seated at the door of his tent,
pitched by a small stream, not far from Fort Enterprize, when a large bear
came to the opposite bank, and remained for some time, apparently survey-
ing him. Keskarrah considering himself to be in great danger, and having,
no one to assist him but his aged wife, made a speech to the following
effect : — * O bear ! I never did you any harm ; I have always had the
highest respect for you and your relations, and never killed any of them
except through necessity. Go away, good bear, and let me alone, and I
promise not to molest you.' The bear walked off, and the old man, fancy-
ing that he owed his safety to his eloquence, favoured us on his arrival at
the fort with his speech at length." (p. 22.)

Dr. Richardson appears rather more than to doubt the specific identity
of any animals, however closely they may resemble, which, as inhabitants
of the great continents of the world, are separated by intervening oceans ;
hence, with Mr. Sabine, he considers the American Badger (ilf eles labra-
doria Sabine) and the Wolverene (Gulo luscus Sabine), as well as the
Canadian lynx, and the whole tribe of wolves, dogs, foxes, marmots, elks,
reindeer, &c., as specifically distinct from their European representatives,
although their formation and consequent habits as nearly approximate as
is possible, allowing for the natural diflerences of climate and food, which
exist in their locaUties. However great are the authorities for this opinion,
we cannot hastily adopt it. When we consider how completely not only
the form and colour, but even the osteology and relative proportions of the
viscera, are altered in our domestic animals, new races with marked pecu-
liarities daily arising before our observation, we cannot believe but that the
same agents, over which man possesses a certain power to produce regular
changes in animal structure to contribute to his convenience, are ever active
under the control of Nature herself. To make ourselves more distinctly
understood, we might state that the same plastic and compensatory power,
existing throughout all nature, which enables man to produce gradually a
greyhound or a pug from the original type of the canine family, whatever it
may have been, would of itself act, more slowly, perhaps, but not less cer-;

^56 Fauna Boredli' Americana.

tainly, in producing all the different wild breeds (or species, as they appear
in our systems) of dogs, foxes, reindeer, &c., precisely in accordance with
their localities, whether hot, temperate, or cold, dry or moist, elevated
or low. But to apply this argument to the innumerable variety of forms
in creation, so as to draw a strict line of demarcation between apparently
identical species, will be the task of future centuries ; and, in the meantime,
it would surely be less objectionable to consider them only as varieties,
than to add to the perplexing myriads of technical terms with which the
science is already overwhelmed. These observations, we wish it to be un-
derstood, apply only to those animals which Dr. Richardson terms the repre-
sentatives of such species as are found in the old world ; to other tribes, as
monkeys, antelopes, &c., the individuals of which are numerous but well
defined, they are inappHcable.

In mentioning the Americal Glutton, or Wolverene, our author takes
occasion to contradict the absurdities promulgated by former writers respect-
ing the European animal of the same name, such as its watching on the branch
of a tree, until a deer passes beneath, to drop upon the unsuspecting prey,
tearing its eyes out to impede its flight, &c., and eating with such voracious-
ness, that it is obliged to squeeze itself between two trees to get rid of the
effects of its inordinate meal. These stories originated at a very early period,
and, being handed down to the time of Buffon, were, with every thing strange
and marvellous, adopted by that eloquent but incorrect writer, and, of
course, admitted into almost every subsequent compilation. Dr. Richard-
son naturally believes the habits of the European closely to resemble those
of the American Gulo, which, he says, feeds chiefly on the carcasses of
beasts which have been killed by accident, chases meadow mice and hares,
and attacks larger animals only when they are disabled, (p. 45.)

Of the principal " fur-bearing animals " belonging to the genus ilfustela
(including the martens, weasels, and otters), which are well known, accurate
descriptions are given, of which it is necessary for us to notice only one, the
Pekan, or JF'i^Aer-weasel, which has derived its English appellation from its
habits having been confounded, particularly by Pennant, with those of the
Vison, which animal, although not web-footed, spends much of its time in
the water, and preys upon small fish, spawn, fresh-water muscles, &c., whilst
the Pekan leads the same kind of life as the Pine Marten, preferring, how-
ever, damp places, where it partly subsists upon frogs, but its favourite food
being the Canada Porcupine, which it kills by biting it on the belly, (p. 55.)

A very ample account of the wolves commences a consideration of the
genus (?anis, in which the white, pied, dusky, and black are considered as
mere varieties of the common grey wolf of America (C^nis iupus occiden-
talis) ; but the Prairie Wolf (Canis latrans), " from differences in its size,
voice, and manners," is adjudged to form a separate species. Our author
appears to hold the opinion that the dog has been originally derived from
the wolf, and in the three principal varieties described (the Esquimaux,
Hare-Indian, and North American or Canadian), he draws a parallel be-
tween them and the three chief varieties of wolves. Of the foxes Dr. Ri-
chardson gives a very minute and interesting account, in which eight varieties
are described, of which five are considered as distinct species.

We must now pass on to the Rodentia, of which order the species are
so numerous in the fur countries, and so many new ones have lately been
discovered, that nearly half the volume is occupied by their description.

As in other cases. Dr. Richardson very properly combats the absurdities
which have been related by Buffon and others respecting the beaver, and
transcribes the account of the habits of that quadruped from Hearne, as the
most accurate. Of the Musquash, a kindred animal in manners and instinct,
a very ample and excellent description is presented, and of the Meadow-
Mice (Arvicula) and Lemmings (Lemurus) several new species are introduced;
but of the genera which have been recently established, those of Sperrad-

Fauna Boreali- Americana, 357

philus, which has been separated from that of Marmo tta in consequence
of the animals composing it possessing cheek-pouches, and Diplostoma,
or Camas Rat, both established by Dr. Richardson, are the most interesting.
From the combined characters of the former, it appears to unite the mar-
mots with the hamsters, and in it are contained eight American species,
seven of which are severally named after the adventurous explorers of these
inhospitable regions, Parry, Richardson, Franklin, Beechey, Douglas, Say,
and Hood. Whilst we utterly disclaim the slightest wish of detaching a
single laurel from such brows, we cannot forbear taking this opportunity of
entering our protest against this wholesale complimentary nomenclature,
which, in these instances, appears peculiarly inappropriate, since the reput-
ation of our gallant discoverers, indelibly engraven on every chart in the
world, can scarcely be supposed to derive any material addition from hav-
ing their names bestowed upon rats and mice ; the compliment, if any,
seems here in fact to be reversed, infinitely greater honour being thus con-
ferred upon the Spermophili. The other new genus Diplostoma is extremely
peculiar, inasmuch as the cheek-pouches, which are lined with hair, do not
communicate with the mouth, which is a mere perpendicular slit behind the
exserted incisors, but open in front of it.

Other genera of recent foundation, as Neotoma (divided from the Lem-
mings), Meriones (formerly a Jerboa), Tamias (the Ground Squirrels),
Geomys (Sand Rats), Aplodontia (nearly allied to the last, and scarcely
established from living specimens), Lagomys, and Lipiira (both separated
from the hares) differ, more or less, in their teeth, from genera formerly
acknowledged. Were it possible for man, with his imperfect faculties, to
fabricate a perfect system, these minute subdivisions might materially expe-
dite so desirable a consummation ; but as that is confessedly beyond the
reach of human power, it becomes a question worthy of serious consider-
ation, whether they do not rather impede than hasten the progress of science
by overburthening the memory. It is by no means established what pre-
cise characters of an animal ought to be considered as sufficiently influen-
tial to warrant its generic separation from others nearly allied to it. The
shape and arrangement of the teeth have been usually selected as forming
the most important ; but the order Rodentia appears to us an exception to
the rule. Of large groups of these animals the mode of life is precisely
similar, and the presence or absence of two or three bands of enamel on the
crowns of the grinders, or a different direction of their waving lines, which
do not seem to aifect their manner of using them, appear to be characters
of scarcely sufficient consequence to divide them into separate types. In
the more general divisions, such as squirrels, mice, hares, porcupines, &c.,
so much difference is at once observable in the aggregate of their charac-
ters, which positively and materially influence their modes of subsistence,
that the correctness" of their separation from each other admits of no dis-
pute ; but if the form of the teeth alone be considered as generic distinc-
tions, each individual species throughout this extensive order might become
a new type, as no two are precisely similar in their dentition.

The Canada Porcupine (^ystrix pilosus Cateshy\ which lives on the bark
of the larch and spruce fir, willow, &c., is described as a sluggish and un-
sightly animal, seldom moving far from one spot, provided its food be abun-
dant. The following account of the use of its spines is an important fact :
— " It is readily attacked by the Indian dogs, and soon killed, but not
without injury to its assailants ; for its quills, which it erects when attacked,
are rough with minute teeth, directed backwards, that have the effect of
rendering this seemingly weak and flexible weapon a very dangerous one.
Their points, which are pretty sharp, have no sooner insinuated themselves
into the skin of an assailant, than they gradually bury themselves, and travel
onwards, until they cause death, by wounding some vital organ. These
spines, which are detached from the porcupine by the slightest touch, and

358 ' British Boole s,

probably by the will of the animal, soon fill the mouths of the dogs which
worry it, and unless the Indian women carefully pick them out, seldom fail
to kill them. Wolves occasionally die from the same cause." (p. 215.)

We regret that we have not space for making any extracts from the valu-
able observations on the hares of America, to clear the former accounts of
which from a labyrinth of confusion, Dr. Richardson has effected much ;
and we must express the same regret at being obliged to pass over the genus
C^rvus, of which the moose, two varieties of reindeer (the Wood-land and
Barren-ground Caribou), the Wapiti, the Black-tailed Deer (C. macrotis
Say\ and the Long-tailed Deer (C. leucurus Douglas\ were the species met
with by the expeditions. Of the Prong-horned Antelope {Antilope furcifer
Smith), an animal principally known from a paper in the 13th volume of
the Linnean Transactions ^ by Major H. Smith, an ample account is given.
But we must omit further notice of these highly interesting animals, as well
as of the bison, the musk-ox, and the argali, or Rocky-Mountain sheep, to
extract a brief notice of the Rocky-Mountain Goat (Capra americana Har-
lan), which has hitherto been regarded as an antelope {A. lanigera Smith)
bearing wool like a sheep. This animal is of the size of the domestic ram,
having the form of body and robust neck with the manners and habits of
the common goat. Its colour is totally white, except the horns, hoofs, lips,
and margins of the nostrils, which are black ; the wool which it produces,
intermixed with long coarse hair, grows principally upon the back and hips,
hanging down the sides like that of the Merino variety of the sheep. Its
flesh is so hard and dry, as to be held in little estimation as food ; but its
wool and skin are highly useful, the latter being manufactured by the In-
dians into caps and saddles. A specimen of the fleece having been sent by
the Hudson's Bay Company to the Wernerian Society of Edinburgh, was
reported, by the person appointed to examine it, to be unlike that of the
sheep, of equal fineness throughout, that on the fore part being similar to
ordinary wool, and on the back much resembling cotton, the whole being
of the first rate quality. The animal frequents the loftiest peaks and steepest
precipices of the Rocky Mountains, probably extending from the 40th to
the 64th or 65th degree of latitude." (p. 268. et seq.)

We cannot dismiss this most valuable and interesting volume, without
paying a just tribute to Mr. Thomas Landseer for the spirit and accuracy
with which his illustrations are executed, and which, as the best perform-
ances of his pencil we have yet seen, must, we are certain, add materially
■to his deserved reputation. One figure, however, v/e consider to be a fail-
ure : it appears as if the artist were determined to destroy all the ante-
lopean characters of the new Capra americana, that it might never again
be mistaken for an antelope. By comparing this figure with the specimens
in the museums of the Linnean and Zoological Societies, the body appears
much too short, the beard and the outline of the throat too well defined,
and the appearance of wool wholly omitted.

There are two plates of osteological illustrations (the skull of Cfrsus
ferox, and two crania and teeth exemplifying the new genera Diplostoma
and Aplodontia), of which we can only observe that the style of etching is
totally unfit for the scrupulous accuracy requisite in displaying minute ana-
tomical detail. — H. W.

Griffith, Edward, Esq. F.L.S. A.S., and others : The Animal Kingdom de-
scribed and arranged in Conformity with its Organisation. From the
French of the Baron Cuvier. With additional Descriptions of -all the
Species hitherto named, and of many not before noticed ; and other ori-
ginal Matter. London. In 8vo Parts. XVIII. and XIX.

Cams, C. G.y Med. et Phil. Doct. : An Introduction to the Comparative
Anatomy of Animals, compiled with constant reference to Physiology ;
with an additional Appendix on the Discovery of a Circulation in Insects.

British Books, 359

Translated from the German, by R. T. Gore, Mem. of the Royal College
of Surgeons in London. 2 vols. 8vo, and a 4to vol. of 20 pis. 31. bds.

Cuvier, Baron George : A Discourse on the Revolutions of the Surface of
the Globe, and the Changes thereby produced in the Animal Kingdom.
Translated from the French. London. 1 vol. 8vo.

Price, the Rev. T. : An Essay on the Physiognomy and Physiology of the
present Inhabitants of Britain, with reference to their Origin as Goths
and Celts; together with Remarks upon the Physiognomical Characte-
ristics of Ireland, and some of the neighbouring Continental Nations.
London. 8vo. 6s. bds.

Le KeuXy X, Conductor, and R. Sands, Engraver : Illustrations of Natural
History ; embracing a Series of Engravings, and descriptive Accounts of
the most interesting and popular Genera and Species of the Animal
World. London. Svo Nos. monthly. Is.; and 4to Nos., every two
months, with proofs of the plates, 4*.; or on India paper, 5s. Nos. I. and II,

The engravings are on steel ; but, though they are most beautifully exe-
cuted, and make pretty pictures, they cannot be called good or characteristic
figures of the species. The letter-press is compiled in a popular manner,
and the work may certainly be considered the cheapest of its kind. It is
proposed to devote 50 numbers to 240 species and varieties of quadrupeds,
one volume to 1.50 birds, one volume to fishes and amphibious animals, and
one volume to reptiles and insects. *' Thus the purchaser will be possessed
of a cyclopaedia of natural history, at the moderate price of 3/., embracing
beautiful representations and historical accounts of more than 600 species
of the animal creation." {Address on the Cover.)

Horsjield, T., M.D. F.R.S. &c. : A Descriptive Catalogue of the Lepidopte-
rous Insects contained in the Museum of the Hon. East India Company,
illustrated by coloured Figures of New Species, &c. London. Part II.,
in roy. 4to, 1/. lis. 6d.; or with proof impressions, and all the plates
coloured, 2/. 2s.

Burrow, the Rev. E.J., A.M. F.R.S. F.L.S. Mem. Geol. Soc: Elements
of Conchology, according to the Linnean System. London, 1829.
1 yol. Svo, 28 plates from nature. 16^. bds, plain ; col. 31*. 6d.

Anon : The Conch ologist's Companion, comprising the Instincts and Con-
structions of Testaceous Animals; with a General Sketch of those extraor-
dinary Productions, which connect the Vegetable and Animal Kingdoms.
London, 1829. 12mo. 6s.

Lindlet/, John, Esq. F.R.S. L.S. G.S. &c. Professor of Botany in the
London University: An Introductory Lecture to the Course of Botany -
to be delivered in the London University. London. 8vo. 1*.
After tracing the origin and progress of botany, and its important uses,
directly and indirectly, in the arts of life, the professor announces his in-
tention of teaching this science by the Jussieuean method, as alone worthy
of the present age, the present state of science, and the London university.
Professor Henslow at Cambridge, we believe, is the only other botanical
teacher who follows in his lectures the same system. We think both
gentlemen entitled to the highest praise, and we doubt not they will be
followed by all the professors in the country.

Henslow, the Rev. J. S., M.A., Professor of Botany in the University of
Cambridge : A Catalogue of British Plants, arranged according to the
Natural System, with the Synonyms of Decandolle, Smith, and Lindley
, Cambridge. Svo. 1S29.

36d " Cwoier^s liegne AriimaL

Murray, John, Esq. F.S.A. F.L.S. F.H.S. F.G.S., &c. : A Glance at some of
the Beauties and Sublimities of Switzerland ; with excursive Remarks on
the various Objects of Interest, presented during a Tour through its pic-
turesque Scenery. London, 1829. 12mo. Is.

This is a most agreeable little book, which no body will be sorry for
having purchased. The author seems to have been accompanied by his
wife, which must have greatly enhanced the enjoyments of that delightful
region at the time, and laid the foundation for the most interesting and
agreeable associations and recollections. Of all ways of enjoying the honey-
moon, none appears to us at all comparable to that of travelling in a foreign
country; not flying through it in a close carriage, in the manner of the
English nobility, but taking the public conveyances, now and then hiring a
post-chaise, a cabriolet, or char a banc, and stopping a day or two at the
most interesting towns or situations, and examining them and the neigh-
bourhood on foot, as did Mr. and Mrs. Murray,

Conversations on Vegetable Physiology ; comprehending the Elements of
Botany, with their Application to Agriculture. By the author of" Con-
versations on Chemistry," " Natural Philosophy," &c. London, 8vo,
2 vols. l2mo.

An excellent work, which we shall notice more at length in next No.
Anon. : The Wonders of the Vegetable Kingdom displayed. In a series of
Letters. London, 1829. 2d edit. 12mo. 6s.

France.

Cumer, M. le Baron, &c. : Le Regne Animal distribu^ d'apres son Organi-
sation, pour servir de Base a I'Histoire Naturelle des Animaux, et dTn-
troduction a TAnatomie comparee. Nouvelle Edition, revue et augmentee.
Paris. Five vols. Svo.

The present, or second, edition of Baron Cuvier's " Animal Kingdom
arranged according to its Organisation," is extended to five volumes, only
four of which have reached this country. The third volume, containing
the Mollusca and Radikta, will complete the work, and is expected shortly
to appear. It is now twelve years since the first edition of this valuable
work was published. If the Paris editions of distinguished works do not
exceed in number of copies those of the London booksellers, we cannot
but express our surprise that so long a period should elapse between the
publication of the first and second editions of the Regne Animal, a work
which forms an epoch in the science of zoology. Our surprise is further
increased when we consider the moderate price of the former edition of
four volumes (about 206-. English), and that a large number of copies must
have been sold to different parts of Europe. This fact proves that, out of
Paris and its immediate vicinity, the number of scientific readers in France
is comparatively very small. In Paris and other large cities in France,
from the houses being generally occupied by several families, there is
little accommodation for forming private libraries : it is the same in Geneva j
we were informed, when there, that only two or three gentlemen in the
place had any number of books which could deserve the name of a library.
This inconvenience is partly remedied by public libraries, which are open
almost every day throughout the year, and to which readers have free
access. Making due allowance for this, still the great length of time which
is required for the sale of a single edition of many valuable works that
we could mention, shows that scientific readers are more rare in the pro-
vinces of France than in Great Britain. The provinces of France are in
respect to science, what England was a century ago, when Addison informs
us that " few country squires knew that they were living upon a planet."

Guerillas Iconographie du Regne Animal. 361

To return to the Bhgne Animal. In the first vohime, which contains
Mainmiferons Animals and Birds, the same arrangement is preserved as in
the former edition, except of the quadrumana, or monkeys. New genera,
which have been recently discovered, are added in some of the other orders,
but these are not numerous. In the second volume, the arrangement of
the Reptiles is nearly the same as in the precechng edition, but there is a
considerable alteration in the arrangement of the various orders of Fish.
The fourth and fifth volumes comprise the Crustacea, Jrachnides, and
Insects, or what Cuvier denominates, Articulated Aiiimah. This part of the
work is greatly enlarged, and in many respects new. It is not written by
Cuvier, but by M. Latreille, who was also the author of the fourth volume
of the former edition, the occupations of Baron Cuvier not admitting
him to extend his labours to the animals in this division. As we shall par-
ticularly advert to whatever differences may occur between the first and
second editions of the Regne Animal, in the essays we are giving on the
Cuvierian system, in the Magazine of Natural History, we do not think
it necessary to enlarge upon them in the present notice. It may be useful
to some of our readers in the country, to inform them that French books
may be purchased in this country on more reasonable terms than formerly ;
the booksellers in London charge now one shilling for what is sold in
Paris for a franc or tenpence. The four volumes already published of the
Regne Animal sell for 28/r. in Paris, and 28*. in London. — B.

Gue'rin, F.E., Membre de la Soc. d'Hist. Naturelle de Paris, de I'Acad.
Roy. des Sc. de la Rochelle, de la Soc. des Sc. de Lille, de la Soc. Lin-
neenne de Bordeaux, &c. &c. ; Iconographie du Regne Animal de M.
le Baron Cuvier, ou Representation, d'apres Nature, de I'une des Especes
les plus remarquables, et souvent non encore figuree, de chaque Genre
d'Animaux ; Ouvrage pouvant servir d'Atlas a tous les Traites de Zoologie.
Paris. 8vo, in 25 livraisons with 10 plates each. Qfr. plain; 15/r.
coloured.

We have here the commencement of a work of considerable interest to
the student in geology, as enabling him to obtain, at a moderate expense,
correct representations of all those forms of the animal creation which
have appeared to MM. Cuvier and Latreille to deserve the rank of
genera. To those distinguished naturalists M. Guerin has dedicated it,
and they have charged themselves with the general superintendence of his
production. They have undertaken to point out to him such subjects in
nature, for the whole of the figures are original, as are most illustrative of
each genus, or most worthy of being represented ; and each plate is sub-
mitted for their approval, previously to its publication. These arrange-
ments would alone have constituted a sufficient guarantee of the useful-
ness and fidelity of the work, and its possession of these requisites is fully
confirmed by an inspection of the first number, the only one that has yet
reached us.

In the ten plates contained in the number before us, M. Guerin furnishes
us with upwards of fifty figures, which may be regarded as specimens of the
mode in which he proposes to illustrate the whole of the animal kingdom.
There are two plates of Mammalia, representing seven monkeys of the Old
Continent, the types of an equal number of genera of that interesting tribe.
The figures of the animals themselves are accompanied by those of their
skulls, and by such other details as the authors have judged necessary for
the illustration of the several groups. By means of these, the leading
characters of each genus, as well as the individual features of the species
figured, are rendered obvious to the eye. There is, however, one disadvan-
tage inseparable from the plan of giving a complete work methodically
arranged, the impossibility, namel}^, of figuring living subjects alone, and the
consequent loss, in many instances, of those characters of expression which

Vol. II. — No. 9. b b

362 Faime Francaise*

are extinguished with the life of the animal. This may be in a great degree
remedied by the skill of an artist like M. Gu^rin, thoroughly acquainted
with all the intricacies of his subject, but can never be entirely overcome ;
and in the monkeys especially, in consequence of the peculiar mobility of
countenance with which they are endowed, and the complete change pro-
duced in their features by death, forms a stumbling block scarcely to be
surmounted. On this account, in one or two of the figures before us, the
Mona for instance, although the zoological characters are well preserved,
the expression of the physiognomy is entirely lost.

Of Birds there is only one plate, representing four of the groups of the
vulture family, with additional views of their beaks and talons. The
Reptiles, also in one plate, comprise the five genera of the tortoises ad-
mitted by M. Cuvier, with their details, extremely well figured. There
are no Fishes given in the present number, the artist intending, perhaps, to
defer the publication of the plates illustrative of that class, until M. Cuvier's
extensive work on the subject, carried on in conjunction with M. Valen-
ciennes, shall have more completely developed the views of that great
zoologist, with regard to this his favourite branch of the science. The
Mollusca figured are Cephalopodes, including the animals found in the
shell of Argonauta, the shell of iVautilus, and the animal and shell of
Spirorbis; and with their details are well represented. The Crustacea
too, four in number, and of the decapodous or crab-like form, are drawn
with the hand of a master, and furnish a very elegant plate. One of
^rachnides (spiders), and three of Insects, exhibiting also dissections of the
mouths, complete the present number, and are finished in a style very
superior to that which we have been accustomed to in most of the works
on entomology published in France. If M. Guerin proceed as he has
begun, and find imitators in this department, the French school of ento-
mological artists will soon vie in accuracy and general effect, if not in
minuteness of finish, with the best productions of the German or the
English.

In twenty-five such numbers as the one which we have just described,
M. Guerin calculates that he shall be able to furnish representations of
every genus contained in the recently published edition of the Regne Animal.
To that standard work his publication may properly be regarded as a com-
plete series of illustrations : but it is equally adapted to illustrate any other
general system of zoology, and will be found especially serviceable to those
who are desirous of obtaining correct views of the forms of the whole of
the animal kingdom, but who are precluded, by their distance from exten-
sive museums, from opportunities of frequently and freely examining the
objects in nature which they contain. — E.

Faune Frangaise, ou Histoire Naturelle, Generale, et Particuliere, des Ani-
maux qui se trouvent en France, constamment ou passagerement, a la
Surface du Sol, dans les Eaux qui le baignent, et dans le Littoral des
Mers qui le bornent; par MM. L. P. Vieillot, A. G. Desmarest, H. M.
Ducrotay de Blainville, S. Audinet-Serville, Lepeletier de Saint-Fargeau,
et C. A. Walckenaer. Paris. In Monthly Numbers, 8 vo. Uncoloured
plates, 4/r. ; coloured, lo/r. ; and 4to col. plates, 15/r.j proofs, 20/r.
The 22d Number was published in June last.

Both in design and execution, this extensive and useful work is highly
deserving of commendation. Its object is to describe the whole of the
" animals found in France, constantly, or for a season only, whether on its
surface, in its waters, or on its coasts ;" and to accompany these descriptions
by '* original figures drawn, wherever it may be possible, from the living
specimen." In this manner it is proposed to represent every species of the
vertebrated division of the animal kingdom ; and, among the invertebrated,
all those which belong to groups of superior interest, as well as a large pro-

Faiine Franfahe, 363

portion of the remainder. Several tliousand species will consequently be
figured in the 900 plates which the work will contain when completed ; and
a mass of original illustrations, more extensive and more comprehensive
than almost any other that has yet been given to the world, will be accu-
mulated for the use of the zoological student. Of these plates, upwards of
two hundred have already appeared ; they are executed in a style which
reflects great credit on the artists employed, and leave little to be desired
on the score of accuracy and neatness of delineation. They have no pre-
tensions, it is true, to be compared with our friend Audubon's stupendous
work on the birds of America ; nor can they be put in competition, as works
of art and of luxury, with the beautiful Planches Coloriees of M. Temminck,
or the splendid Histoire Naturelle des Mammiferes of MM. GeofFroy Saint
Hilaire and Frederic Cuvier : but, as natural history engravings, they are
equally faithful and equally valuable with the two latter works ; and what
is of infinite importance to the zoologist, whose purse is not always of the
heaviest, are to be obtained at a fraction of their cost. It is for this reason,
more especially, that we feel called upon to recommend the present publi-
cation to our readers ; for we are convinced that nothing has contributed
in a greater degree to retard the progress of natural science and its general
diffusion, than the splendid mode of publication adopted by many of its
professors, and the consequently enormous price at which their labours, or
rather those of the artists employed by them, are rated by the booksellers.
We could name many excellent works that have, on this very account, re-
mained utterly unknown to the world at large, and have scarcely met the
^occasional glance of the scientific naturalist, who has endeavoured to satisfy
himself by a hurried inspection of their contents in some public library;
whereas, had they been published with less pretension, in a moderate form
and at a reasonable price, they would have contributed most essentially to
the advancement of the science, to its spread among the people, and to their
own real and substantial fame.

Of the letter-press we may also speak in terms of commendation. The
names of the writers are indeed of themselves a sufficient guarantee of the
scientific value of their labours, which are distributed in the following man-
ner : — M. Desmarest undertakes the Mammalia, Reptiles, and a portion of
the Insects ; M. Vieillot, the Birds ; M. Blainville, the Fishes, and all the in-
vertebrated animals, with the exception of the Insects and Spiders ; the latter
are described by M. Walckenaer, and the remaining Insects are divided
between MM. Serville and Lepeletier de Saint-Fargeau. There is, perhaps,
rather too much succinctness in the descriptions, which are seldom relieved
by the introduction of details relative to the habits and economy of the
species ; a fault which we were the less prepared to meet with, as the work
was originally announced to be " designed for all classes of society; " and
it was, consequently, made an especial feature of the prospectus, that the
authors " would enter at greater length into the history of those animals
which were remarkable either for their advantages or disadvantages, so as
to fulfil one of the principal objects proposed, that of utility and appHca-
tion." For want of a little of this kind of matter, to render it readable,
the work has somewhat too much of the uninviting character of dry tech-
nical definitions, which have nothing in them to interest any but the pro-
fessed zoologist. It is, however, announced, that general observations on
each division will hereafter be published in the form of an introduction
to the respective parts ; and it is probably the intention of the authors to
render these preliminary essays the vehicles for communicating information
of a more generally interesting kind.

We heartily wish success to this work, and such success as may dispose
others to imitate the example that is here set before them. Why have we
not in England a Fauna of our own ? We have long been in possession of
the most perfect Flora that has ever been published, and yet we have nothing

B B 2

364 French Boohs.

like a general Fauna of our country. Pennant's British Zoologi/, at the
time of its original appearance a most excellent work, and a model in many
respects for all similar undertakings, is now grown in a great measure obso-
lete, and is, besides, defective, as regards the lower animals ; the illustration
of which, with the exception of the shells of the Mollusca, formed, in fact,
no part of its plan. Donovan's works are by far too expensive for general
circulation, and contain only partial illustrations of the subject. We have,
it is true, several enumerations, such as Turton's and Fleming's, unaccom-
panied by figures ; but these are, in the greater part of their contents, little
more than compilations from previous writers, and the want of plates ren-
ders them unattractive to the mass of mankind. Of publications devoted
to a single branch of the science, we have a few that are excellent in their
kind. Montagu's Ornithological Dictionary/ and Bewick's Birds, for example,
have rendered that department of natural history popular throughout the
land. Other works, of a more expensive kind, illustrate other departments.
Our native shells, for instance, are better known, through the labours of
Montagu, of Maton and Rackett, and of Turton, than those of any other
country : but we have yet no Fauna. Such a work can be creditably exe-
cuted only by a union of naturalists, each especially qualified by his previous
studies for the department he undertakes; and we would willingly hope
that at no distant time a British Zoology may be produced worthy of a place
on our shelves by the side of the English Botany. Until that time arrives,
we can only recommend, as a substitute for a Fauna of England, that of
the country most nearly adjacent, and, consequently, most closely resem-
bling our native soil in its animal inhabitants. It 'is well executed; and
although the price of the whole work, even in its least costly form, will
necessarily be considerable, is as cheap as a work so extensively illustrated
by copper-plates can possibly be. Wood-engravings, and a greater share of
popular information, might perhaps, by insuring a more extensive cir-
culation, enable a similar work to be produced in this country at a lower
rate ; although for this we are scarcely prepared to answer.

It is right to add, that the publication of the Faune Frangaise has been
once suspended, owing, as we are informed, to the long illness and sub-
sequent death of the first editor. At that time seventeen numbers had
been published. In June of last year the publication was resumed, and six
or seven numbers have since appeared; and it is stated that the mass of
materials which has been accumulated is such as to secure the appearance
of at least one number per month. It is in the 8vo form, and each num-
ber contains five sheets of letter-press and ten plates ; its price being, on
common paper, with the plates uncoloured, 4 francs; coloured, 10 francs;
on fine paper, with coloured plates, 4to, 1 5 francs ; and with proofs in
addition, 20 francs.

Cuviery F, : Histoire Naturelle des Mammiferes, avec des figures originales
colorizes. Livr. 59. Paris. Folio. 15s.

Duperrey: Voyage autour du Monde, en 1822 — 1826. Premiere division :
Zoologie. Livr. 9. 4to, fig. col. 1 Is.

Werner: Atlas des Oiseaux d'Europe. Livr. 1 1. Paris. 8vo. Fig. col. 65.
Qd. ; noir. Zs. 6d.

Lesson:

1. Histoire Naturelle des Oiseaux-Mouches. Paris. Gr. 8vo. Livr. 1.
et 2. Fig. col. 5s. each.

2. Compl^Tient des (Euvres de Buffon, ou Histoire Naturelle des Ani-
maux rares, decouverts par les Naturalistes et les Voyageurs depuis la

German and Dutch Booh. 365

Mort de Buffbn. Paris. 8vo. Tom. 2. Races humaines. Paris.
8vo. 3s. 6d. Planches, 2s. 6d. ; idem color. 5s.

AJassou de Grandsaigne : Resume d'Ichthyologie. Paris. 32mo, 2 vols,
fig. Is.

Duponchel: Histoire Naturelle des Lepidopteres de France. Paris. 8vo.
Tom. 7. 2de Partie, Livrs. 1, 2, 3. os. each.

Roux :

1. Crustacees de la Mediterranee et de son Littoral. Marseilles et Paris.
Gr. 4to. Livr. l. 5 fig. col. 8*. each.

2. IconographieConchyliologique. Livr. I. Gr. 4to, 8 fig. col. IQs.Qd.
each.

Humboldt et Bonpland, Voyage de : 6me Partie : Botanique. Revision des
Graminees, par S. Kunth. Paris. Folio. Livr. 1. et 2. fig. col., to be
completed in 20 livrs., 2/. 8*. each. Grand colombier, 3l. each.

Descourtilz: Flore Pittoresque et M^dicale des Antilles. Paris. 8vo.
Livr. 114, 115. 4*. each.

^rowgma;-^; Prodrome d'une Histoire des VegetauxFossiles. Paris. 8vo. 5s.

Elie de Beaumont: Observations Gdologiques siir les difFerentes formations

:jui, dans le Systeme des Vc ' ' " -- -

le Lias. Paris. 8vo. fig.

qui, dans le Systeme des Vosges, separent la Formation Houillere de celle

Germany.

Nenningy S* V, : Lehrbuch der Gesammten Naturlehre. Winterthur. Gr.
8vo. 9s.

Naumann, Dr. C, F.y Sec. : Encyclopadie der Speciellen Naturgeschichte.
Berlin. 3bd. 8vo. 10*.

Dierbach, Dr. J. H. : Beitrage zu Deutschlands Flora. Heidelberg, svo.
2r. thl. 4*.

Link^ Dr. H. F., and F. Otto : Icones Plantarum rariorum Horti Regii Bo-
tanici Berolinensis. Berlin. 4to. Ir bd. 3r hft. 75. 6d.

Sprengely Ad. : Tentamen Supplementi ad Systematis Vegetabilium Lin-
naeani. Gottingen. 8vo, Edit. XVL \s. 6d.

Bischoff, Dr. G. W.: Die Kryptogamischen Gewachse, 2telief. Nurenberg.
Gr. 4to. 125.

Fingerhuth, Dr. C. A. : Tentamen Florulae Lichenum Eiffliacae. Nuren-
berg. Gr. Svo. 2s. Qd.

Walchner, Dr. F.A.: Handbuch der gesumamten Mineralogie. Carlrushei.
Gr. Svo. Iste abthlg. 1/. 5s.

Holland and the Netherlands.

Blume : Flora Javae, nee non Insularum adjacentlum, cum tabulis lapidi
aerique incisis. Folio. Fascic. 1 , 2, 3, 4. 145. each, plain; 18a-. each,
coloured.

BBS

366 Litet'ary Notices,

. Russia.

Ledebour, C.F., Phil. Dr.Botan. Professor in Universitate Dorpatensi, Ros-
soriim Imp. August, a Consiliis Status, Ordinis S. Annae Secundae Classis
Equcs : Icones Plantarum Novarum, vel imperfecte coj^nitarum, Florani
Rossicam, imprimis Altaicam illustrantes. To be published in 10 Livrs.
with 500 figs. ol. 10s. each, plain.

Italy.

Zanojiy Bartol. : Del nuovo Solfato di Soda et Magnesia, &c. Bellune,
. 1824. 8VO, pp. 21.

North America.

Lea, Isaacy Esq., of Philadelphia, Member of various European Societies :
Description of Six new Species of the Genus U'nio, embracing the Ana-
tomy of the Oviduct of one of them, together with some Anatomical
Observations on the Genus. Read before the American Philosophical
Society, Nov. 2. 1827. Philadelphia. 4to, plates.

Art. III. Literary Notices,

Ruf VISION des Graminies. — Professor Kunth has announced a new con-
tribution to botanical science, entitled Revision des Graminies, being an en-
largement of what appeared in his Nova Genera et Species Plantarum Avie-
ricancB Septentrionalis. The introduction will contain some original views
respecting the organisation of this most useful class of vegetables, establish-
ing their relation with others, and discussing the opinions previously enter-
tained on the subject. The author will then notice the generic characters,
point out those which are best established, and add some new ones resulting
from his own observations. This introduction will be followed by the com-
plete genera. The work will be illustrated by 100 finely' coloured engrav-
ings, and, with the descriptive text, will form a folio volume of the same
size as the Nova Genera and the Mivwses. {For. Quart. Rev., Jan.)

Casual Botany, or an Elementary Treatise descriptive of the Changes of
Plants, by D. Bishop, is publishing by subscription in 1 vol. 8vo. Is. Sub-
scriptions are received by Mr. Wright, agricultural bookseller, Haymarket.

Petnficata Suecana Formationis Cretacecs has lately been commenced by
Professor S. Nilsson of Lund. Professor Nilsson is already advantage-
ously known, both in his own country and abroad, as an eminent naturalist,
and has added not a little to his fame by this work. A knowledge of the
petrifactions is necessarily of great importance to the students of geological
science ; and the author has, in preference, chosen those of the cretaceous
formation, as having been (though they constitute a number of about 200
species) least examined by previous authors. The plates are executed with
great care, so as to give a clear idea of each species, and the descriptions
are concise and accurate. The continuation of this work will be anxiously
looked for by all the lovers of this interesting branch of science. (For,
Quart. Rev.)

BakeweWs Geology is reprinting in the United States, under the direction
of Professor Sillimai , of Yale College, who states it as his opinion, that it is
" the most intelligible, attractive, and readable work on geology in^ the
English language." — S, T. Jaih 26. 1829.

367

PART III.

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. Natural History in Foreign Countries,

ITALY.

Cavern containing Fossil Bones. — Professor Savi has discovered, near
Cassana, in the mountains surrounding the Gulf of Spezia, a cavern contain-
ing bones of deer, bears, and other animals, very similar to those found in
the bone caverns in England, Germany, and France. M. Savi infers that
these bones belonged to animals previous to the deluge. {Nuovo Giorn. de
Litterati, 23., p. 1 23.)

Should a few more of these bone caverns be discovered in Italy besides
this solitary instance, we could better determine whether the antediluvian
hypothesis, or that of Mr. Ranking who refers them to the animals killed in
the Roman amphitheatres, is the most tenable. We perceive that another
similar grotto has been discovered near Miremont, by M. J. Delanoue, who
has given an account of it in the Annates des Mines, vii. p. 597. -r- J. R.

SPAIN.

State of Natural History in Spain. — The king of Spain, amongst the few
acts of liberality which he has condescended to perform, instituted, in 1815,
public courses of mineralogy, zoology, chemistry, botany, agriculture, and
astronomy. The influx of students to these courses has been so great, that
the halls cannot contain them. On the month of September last, above
sixty presented themselves for examination, to obtain certificates for their
proficiency in general botany, of which Don Vicente Soriano is professor.
The king has instituted prizes for those who distinguish themselves.

A number of distinguished individuals attend Professor Sandalio Arias's
course of agriculture ; and, both in this and horticulture, great improvements
have been introducedi The junta of Aranceles have received the king's
commands to import 30 pair each of our long-wooled Southampton and our
Leicester sheep, to be distributed, at the public expense, over the Peninsula.
{Gaceta de Bayona, Oct. 1828.)

SWEDEN. :J

Temperature at Christiania and at Leith. — From the tables kept at
Christiania by Professor Flansteen, it appears that the daily variation of
temperature is there much greater than at Leith, especially in winter.
February July,

Christiania. Leith. Christiania. Leith.

Minimum
Maximum

- 11° 07
- 23° 08

39° 23
42° 80

54° 93 J
67° 02

55° 15
64° 83

Difterencc

12° 01

3° 57
B B 4<

12° 09

9°C8

368 I^atural History in Foreign Countries.

The yearly variation from February to July is also much greater at Chris-
tiania; probably on account of the mist from the sea and the unclear sky at
Leith, tempering the cold of the night and of the winter, and absorbing
the sun*s rays in the day and in the summer.

Christiania. Leith,

Mean of February 16° 224 40° 621

Mean of July " 61° 690 60° 361

Difference 45"" 466 19° 740

ASIA.

iBrcwster''s Journal.)

Katural History in China. — According to M. Abel Rerausat, the cele-
brated French Orientalist, the hieroglyphic method of writing amongst the
Chinese has led them to form a very tolerable classification of natural ob-
jects, in the form of families, such as cereal plants, ruminant and carnivorous
animals, salts, metals, &c. According'' to this plan, they write rice-corn,
dog-fox, &c. It was precisely this method, which has been known in
China for four thousand years, that Linnaeus followed in forming groups
of natural objects. The Chinese classification, however, is in some respects
exceedingly erroneous and imperfect, the Mollusca, for example, as well as
whales, being classed among fishes, and lead among the precious metals.
Their best treatise on natural history consists of forty volumes, in which are
coloured figures, very exact, as well as a regular nomenclature. With respect
to economical details, anecdotes of instinct, &c., this is more copious than
correct. (Revue Trimestriel/e, iii. p. 351.)

WildPoidtr?/ {Y'hasidnus Gdllus). — In the forests through which we passed
we saw several flocks of wild poultry. One of these, not far from a village,
appeared so little shy, that we at first imagined it consisted of domestic
fowls, and hesitated to fire. In the winter, or cold season, innumerable
flocks of ducks and other water-fowl are described as visiting Cochin-China.
These had not yet arrived, but we observed preparations making for en-
snaring them. These consisted of a number of artificial birds, intended for
decoys. {Crawford* s Embassy to Siam and Cochin-China.)

Leaf Insects. — There are also the leaf insects, which assume the shape,
size, and general appearance of the leaf on which they feed, so exactly,
that it is only on examination one becomes aware of their real character.
I saw several, but the most extraordinary was one which lived on a thorny
plant, the body of which resembled a stick, and was covered with thorns.
(Heber*s Tour in Ceylon.) [Similar appearances are by no means uncom-
mon even among British insects, as in the caterpillars of Geometra ^yrin-
garia and G. cratsegaria. — J. R.]

The Flying Leech is common in the jungles in the interior (Ceylon), and
the native troops, on their march to Canely, suffered very severely from
their bite, occasionally even to the loss of life or limb ; their legs were
covered with them, and streamed with blood. I saw one of these animals
in a horse's leg. It is much smaller than the common leech, the largest, when
at rest, being not more than half an inch long, and may be extended till it
becomes a fine string ; the smaller ones are very minute. They possess the
power of springing, by means of a filament, to a considerable distance.
{Heber's Narrative.)

Zoology and Botany of the Indian Archipelago. — The manuscripts of
Drs. Kuhl and Van Hasselt, who recently travelled over the islands of the
Indian Archipelago, for the purpose of exploring their botany and zoology,
and who died in the midst of their researches, have been transmitted to
Europe ; and the first part of their botanical discoveries, forming the most

Natural History in Foreign Countries, 369

interesting portion of their labours, published by command of His Majesty,
and edited by Professor von Brede, has recently appeared. The work will
contain the genera and species of the Orchidece and yisclepia^e*^, and will
be completed in eighteen livraisons, containing five plates each, (7<o;\ Quart.
Rev., June, 1828.)

NORTH AMERICA

Niagara. — The Duke of Saxe- Weimar, who lately visited the Falls of
Niagara, thus describes the scene : — " The roaring of the water directed
our steps. We came suddenly upon the precipice, and beheld the immense
mass of water rushing impetuously downwards, with a dreadful noise, to a
fearful depth. It is impossible to describe the view; it is impossible to
convey the mingled feeling of weakness and sublimity that arises in the
human breast at the sight of this stupendous work of nature. We can
only wonder, admire, and adore. The rocks on both sides are very steep ;
there are, however, covered wooden steps, by which we descended to the
lower part of the stream ; but the spray, caused by the foam of the fall,
deprived us of the beautiful view we had anticipated. We, therefore, soon
re-ascended, and enjoyed, from above, the contemplation of the majestic and
the sublime." {Reise durch Nord Ameiica, 1825-6, vol. i. p. 752.)

Qolmnba migratoria {the Wild Pigeon). — On December 13., from about
nine o'clock in the morning till two o'clock in the afternoon, immense
flocks of pigeons, extending as far as the eye could reach, were seen passing
over our village (Rochester) from the north. Their numbers, which were
incalculably great, and the novelty of the circumstance, excited considerable
attention. Some few of them were taken ; and, what is very singular, they
were found to be very fat. It is an interesting enquiry, where have they been,
and what have they been doing ? It is a very unusual season to see birds
of passage on their journey. We would suggest to Mr. Symmes the possi-
bility of drawing, from this singular fact, an argument in favour of pleasant
weather at the North Pole. {Rochester, N. F., Genesee Co. Reg. Dec. 1828.)

We have never before witnessed such multitudes of wild pigeons as have
appeared amongst us (Montrose) at the present season. Flocks, extending
miles in length, have many days been seen passing over the hills, and pre-
senting a novel and interesting appearance. But what is most extraordinary,
and causes us now to notice them, is their encampment, about ten miles
from this place, in a south-west direction, where they have built their nests
and are raising their young. This encampment is upwards of nine miles in
length and four in breadth, the lines regular and straight, within which there
is scarcely a tree, large or small, that is not covered with nests. They cause
such a constant roaring, by the flapping of their wings, that persons, on
going into the encampment, have great difficulty in hearing each other speak.
Every thing throughout their camp appears to be conducted in the most
perfect order. They take their turns regularly in sitting and in feeding
their young; and when any of them are killed upon their nests by the sports-
men, others immediately supply their places. We are inclined to believe
that they have, in part, adopted Mr. Owen's " community system," as the
the whole appears to be a " common-stock business." The squabs (as the
young are called) are now sufficiently large to be considered, by epicures,
better for a rich dish than the old ones;; and they are caught and carried
off by waggon-loads. {Susquehanna County Register, May, 1829.)

The late De Witt Clinton of New York shows, that Mr. Wilson's opi-
nion, respecting the American wild pigeon laying only one egg at a time, is
wrong. These birds often lay two eggs for the same sitting ; one pair pro-
duced seven, and another eight, times in one year. In twenty-three days
from the laying of the egg, the young ones could fly. In eight days from
their being hatched, they are completely feathered, and fly from the nest.

370 Natural History in Foreign Countries,

{New York Med, and Phys. Journal, vol. ii. p. 210.) — J. M. Philadelphia,
May 1.3. 1829.

A Den of Rattlesnakes. — An emigrant family inadvertently fixed their
cabin on the shelving declivity of a ledge, that proved a den of rattlesnakes.
Warmed by the first fire on the hearth of the cabin, the terrible reptiles
issued in numbers, and, of course, in rage, by night, into the room where
the whole family slept. As happens in those cases, some slept on the floor,
and some in beds. The reptiles spread in every part of the room, and
mounted on every bed. Children were stung in the arms of their parents,
and in each other's arms. Imagination dares not dwell on the horrors of
such a scene. Most of the family were bitten to death ; and those who
escaped, finding the whole cabin occupied by these horrid tenants, hissing,
and shaking their rattles, fled from the house by beating off' the covering of
the roof, and escaping in that direction. {Flint's Geography and History of
the United States, vol. i. p. 115.)

The Mammoth Cave, in Warren County, Kentucky, is a cavern in lime-
stone, which has been explored by gentlemen of science for the astonishing
distance of ten miles, without finding the end. {Amer. Quart. Rev., March,
1829.)

SOUTH AMERICA.

The Birds of Demerara are surpassed by those of no country in the
world. Almost every one of those singular and elegant birds, described by
Buffon as belonging to Cayenne, are here to be met with, but only by an
indefatigable naturalist. {Waterton.)

Migration of Butterflies. — On the coast of Brazil, for many days in
March, a great number of white and yellow butterflies take their flight from
the north-west to the south-east. They are never observed to alight in
their course, and are not impeded by forts or other extensive buildings
crossing their path. As the sea is in the direction towards which they fly,
it is probable they perish there. {Lindley's Brazil.)

The Electric Eel. — That most singular animal, the electric eel (Gymno-
tus electricus), abounds in the river Orinoco in South America, and is
caught, as we are informed by recent travellers, by driving a number of wild
horses into the pools which they frequent. They exert their benumbing
powers on the horses till exhausted, when they may be taken without dan-
ger. {Bulletin des Sciences Nat.)

Coalfields hi Peru. — M. Mariano de Rivero, director-general of the mines
belonging to the Republic of Peru,is employed in drawing up a memoir on the
coal fields of his district, which promises to be of considerable interest. Near
to Cerro, he informs us, from four to ten leagues, there are numerous beds
of fossil charcoal, of which the chief deposits near Raucas are of very good
quality, and are situated on the slope of a hilly ridge several leagues in
extent. The principal bed lies north and south between strata of fine sand-
stone. He has found in these coal fields a considerable quantity of yellow
amber, but he could not discover any impressions of the organic remains of
plants and animals. The coal is used for heating steam-engines, &c. {An-
nales des Scien. Nat. for March.)

The Cordilleras. — The great mountain chain of the Andes is divided, be-
tween the 14° and 20° of south latitude, into two longitudinal ranges, called
by the Creoles Cordilleras. These ranges are separated by an inter-alpine
longitudinal valley, the lowest part of which is about 12,000 or 13,000 ft.
English above the level of the Pacific. At the northern extremity of this
valley is situated the celebrated Lake Titicaca, upon whose banks the
empire of the Incas originated. The western Cordillera lies between the
Pacific Ocean and the Valley of Desaguadero, appropriately named the
Tartary of the New World ; and here are situated many volcanoes in a stated

Natural History in London. 371

of activity. The eastern Cordillera, composed chiefly of transition and
secondary rocks, separates the same valley from the vast plains of Chiquitos
and Moxos.

The eastern Cordillera, between the 1 4° and 1 7° of south latitude, pre-
sents an almost continued series of pics, whose summits are covered with
snow, and many are above 20,000 ft. in height. It is in this mountain
chain that the highest mountains hitherto observed in America are situated,
particularly Nevadas de lllimani and Sorata, which surpass even Chimbo-
razo, Antizana, and Cayamb^. {Humboldt.)

WEST INDIES.

Coral RocJcs. — In the West Indies, it is common to mistake tertiary
limestone above chalk, and filled with coral petrifactions, for old coral
beds ; but in the larger mountains of the Antilles, genuine madrepore rocks
occur, surrounding, to a considerable height, rocks of primary formation.
The common opinion of the extent of coral formations, founded on the
vague observations of voyagers, is generally carried much farther than the
facts will warrant. {Humboldt, Tableau de la Nature.)

Art. II. Natural History in London.

Zoological Gardens^ Jtdy 18. — The additional ground obtained by the
Zoological Society in the Regent's Park lies to the north of the present
gardens, and across the road. Retaining a part of the woody belt which
now exists on that (the northern) side, there is to be a gentle sweep up to
the gates, to admit of the ingress and egress of visitors ; while the commu-
nication between the two gardens will be effected by means of a sufficiently
spacious tunnel under the road. The whole space will be about 15 acres;
and thus, what may be considered the public exhibition part of the esta-
blishment will be much extended and improved, the sights more numerous,
and the habitats of the various animals better suited to their natures, as
well as to the convenience of those who come to view and study them.
This seems to be more] requisite, from the increasing popularity of this
lounge, to which the mature crowd to gratify their curiosity, and the young
are taken to inform their minds. So great, indeed, has the resort become,
that 2000 visitors have been calculated in one day ! Among the novelties
which may partially account for this, is the Brahmin bull, not white, as has
been stated in the newspapers, but grey, and certainly a beautiful as well as
interesting animal. The alligator died on July 13. ; but the beavers, the
seal (still living, though not very promising), two opossums, a young scarlet
ibis, the macaws in high feather, several species of remarkable dogs, together
with the usual tribes, from the lion to the monkey, and from the sea-eagle
to the linnet, give great animation to a spot which is in itself a delightful place
of recreation. Thus, while what may be called the Metropolitan Show is so
eminently prosperous, it may be expected that, in conjunction therewith, the
more useful establishment near Kingston may be made productive of real
benefit to the country, by improving the breed of animals, by naturalising
foreign and exotic specimens which will adorn England, or be valuable for
food and commercial purposes. There are a multitude of creatures of every
kind, which, if properly cultivated (and this may be done at a distance from
London, where they are not everlastingly disturbed in their habits), would
enrich our rivers, our fields, our heaths, and our woods : there are even
many, once indigenous, which might advantageously be introduced, from

372 Zoological Society.

the lovely egret, through several excellent varieties of game, to the noble
cock of the wood and the bustard. It is to be hoped that the Society,
now so largely patronised by the public, will hold these objects in view ; and
while it administers a laudable amusement to the inhabitants of the capital,
pursue the still more scientific ends which such an institution may fairly
propose as its chief title to national support and honour. {Literary Gazette.)
We should be happy to see the public generally admitted to these gardens
on the Sunday afternoons, on the same terms as during the week ; for,
otherwise, how are many servants to see them, and the poorer description
of tradesmen ? These, also, have a curiosity to be gratified, affections to
be cultivated, and minds to be expanded. — Cond.

Art. III. Zoological Society.

August \5. — Since the Anniversary Meeting of this^Society on the 5>9th
of April, some important accessions have been made to the several collec-
tions, and numerous improvements have been effected in the arrangement of
the garden, &c. Each department has been enriched with valuable dona-
tions, lists of which were laid before the Fellows at their monthly meetings.
Among the numerous contributions to the museum may be noticed a collec-
tion of reptiles, insects, shells, corals, &c., with the skins of various qua-
drupeds and birds, presented by Captain Fayrer ; two very interesting models
of the orang outang,and a skeleton of an elephant, by George Swinton, Esq.;
and various subjects of natural history from the Mauritius, by Charles Telfairj,
Esq. In the garden, the following works have been completed since the
period above mentioned : — Cages for foxes, dogs, &c. j pond and enclosure
for otters, dens for larger quadrupeds, cage for macaws, appropriate iron
enclosures for monkeys, shed and enclosure for deer, cote for dragon pigeons,
and numerous smaller buildings and enclosures. Several other works, in-
cluding a cage for the harpy eagle, presented by the Council of the Horti-
cultural Society, are in progress. The following are among the donations
to the menagery recently received : — An Indian elk, a pair of East Indian
bears, a paradoxurus, &:c., by Captain Fayrer ; a Cachmere goat, by C.
Towers, Esq. ; a four-horned sheep and an axis deer, by Earl St. Vincent ;
a porcupine and a Fossane cat, by H. Warrington, Esq. ; forty gold fish, by
Sir Robert Heron ; a young tigress, by Captain Mangles ; a pair of emeus,
by the Right Hon. J. C. Herries ; a scarlet ibis, by Viscount Strangford ; a
long-armed ape, by Dr. Alexander ; an Indian deer, from the collection of
His Majesty ; and numerous other valuable and interesting subjects. Many
purchases have also been effected, consisting chiefly of the following : — A
young lion from the Cape of Good Hope ; three species of hyaena, the
striped, the spotted, and the tortoise-shell ; a female puma ; a pair of young
pelicans ; a Brahmin bull ; a collection of small zebus ; a nyl ghaw ,• a polar
bear, &c. &c. These improvements and acquisitions have attracted, during
the season, a great increase of visitors, who are admitted, as usual, by orders
from the Fellows. The receipts at the gate have, on some days, exceeded
100/., the number of visitors, during one month only, being 54,000.

An adjustment of the difficulties which have hitherto prevented the oc-
cupation of the land on the north side of the road has recently been effected ,•
by which the Council will be enabled, during the ensuing winter, to exhibit
the collection, in a safe and convemient manner, to the Fellows and their
friends.

-' The works at the farm at Kingston are in progress ; the rooms in the
house destined for the use of the Fellows are completed ; some necessary
buildings have been erected, and others are in contemplation. The birds

Linnean Society, 373

hitherto kept on the islands in the lake at the Regent's Park, with the
several varieties of sheep, and the large zebus, for which no accommodation
can be at present afforded in the gardens, have been transferred to the farm.

Art. IV. Linneayi Society,

Mr. Duncan^ s Address at the Anniversary Dinner of the Linnean Society ^
on the 25th of May last. — Sir, Your request, founded on Mr. Don's too
favourable report of the few remarks which I ventured to utter at the
Linnean Society's dinner, is inviting, and I hope something better than flat-
tering. It is inviting to a recapitulation of sentiments rather than of words.
I am no orator, and am therefore convinced that my matter must have
wanted the grace of rhetoric. If the little which I ventured to say pro-
duced sympathy, it was a good feeling ready formed in the kind hearts of
those around me, which wanted but small excitement to cause it to break
forth. Many, I am willing to believe, most, of those who were present, were
much better acquainted with the details of natural history than myself. I
perhaps said that I was the last called, and least worthy to be called, a natu-
ralist. I faintly remember to have observed that, although Nature was ever
dear to me, as the source of my best and purest delights, from infancy to
manhood, I came, as one who reaches a beautiful shore after shipwreck, to
the land of natural science. I left the courts of law in a state of extreme ill
health, and sought refuge and relief, for body and mind, in Nature's garden.

« Not that fair field

Of Enna, where Proserpine gathering flowers.
Herself a fairer flower, by gloomy Dis
Was gathered ; . . . . nor that sweet grove
Of Daphne by Orontes, and the inspired
Castalian spring, might with this paradise
Compare."

I sought it, not as a child, to pick up rare and gaudy flowers, to hunt butter-
flies, or to ensnare newts or fish, or birds or mice, but as a man, not unused
to trace important conclusions through a chain of complicated evidence. I
could not regard the wide prospect of beauty and magnificence before me,
even for a moment, and witness the manifest adaptation of means to ends,
the multitude of diversities which distinguish objects into larger and smaller
groups, into kingdoms, classes, &c , the analogies which demonstrate a unity
of intention pervading every part, without perceiving the traces of that
Great Power, in attestation of whose glory

" All nature cries aloud through all his works."

" They want not speech nor language, but their voices are heard among
them. Their sound is gone out into all lands, even unto the ends of the

world." T J • ,. •

Yet, again and again have I been asked. Cm bono ? I admit the import-
ance of this business-like question ; and, if I did not feel ready to admit its
fairness, and to reply to it to the utmost conviction of my heart, I should
feel myself unworthy to be the guardian of the Ashmolean Museum, or to
be a member of the Linnean Society. If the question, Cui bono ? be limited
to the consideration of pecuniary profit or lucre, I have, indeed, only to say,
correct or systematised knowledge is the only true and solid foundation of
all art ; is the source of permanent power, and, therefore, of individual and
national wealth. The individual who devised the means of supplying half
London with wholesome water did not, indeed, reap the benefit by which

374 Linnean Society.

thousands have been enriched, and from which millions have successively
derived comfort. But I contend for a much higher benefit accruing from
the mere contemphition of nature, constantly augmented by every accession
to the stock of knowledge, and, as I beheve and trust, capable of continual
advancement from generation to generation to the end of time, and of
yielding delight through all eternity. We are conscious of great delight
from cheerful and enlightened conversation. The observations and the
lectures of learned men send us away full of pleasing thoughts, which divert
our minds from ordinary anxieties. We well know that the society in which
men and women are conversant influences their manners ; that books make
full men ; discussion, acute men ; exertion, strong and active men. If we
are thus strengthened, thus polished, thus improved, what must we be if our
conversation be not only with the wise but with wisdom itself? not only
with the graceful and the glorious among men, but with the Author of all
beauty and glory. Knowledge amasses facts, science arranges them. But
what does science effect? Has it in itself any arranging and disposing
power ? Surely none. It can only observe, and compare, and trace out,
and announce the observed harmonies, connections, ties, and nice depend-
encies, the diversities and analogies which the great Ordainer has placed
before the view of attentive intelligence. These are the backward traces
which show where God has passed. He said to Moses, " Thou shalt see
behind me, for man cannot view my face and live." Are we not elevated, are
we not enraptured, when we see the great works of Greek and Roman artists?
of Phidias, of Michael Angelo, of Raphael, of Corregio, of Wren and Rey-
nolds, of ship-builders and machinists ? Yet how mean are their imitations
of the mere exterior of scant)*.portions of God's works ! how utterly in-
adequate to enter into the slightest competition with the least atom of
reality ! Yet we cultivate a taste for human arts as a source of our highest
enjoyments ; and what we so seek, we do not fail to find. What, then,
ought we not to expect to discover as the result, to expect as the concomi-
tant, of a continual, an attentive, a devoted study of the harmonies of God*s
creation, — of his great book of primary and perpetual manifestation,
stamped by his own impress, displaying universally his undecaying auto-
graph? Some, indeed, have weakly supposed that this assertion of natural
theology militates against the Mosaic and Christian revelation"; but I appeal to
the hearts and heads of all sincere lovers of the beauties and glories of God's
works, whether they ever feel more fervently all the good emotions which
the bible is uniformly directed to excite and to purify, than when they con-
template the evidence of its fundamental truths in the first great work of
the common Author of creation and of revelation. In the latter, how fre-
quent and how beautiful are the appeals to the former ! " The invisible
things,'* says Saint Paul, " are clearly seen, being understood by the things
that are made ; even the eternal power and Godhead." What, then, are the
emotions of which every ardent naturalist, by the very constitution of his
body and soul, of all his instincts and all his improved faculties, is inevit-
ably conscious ? The first emotions, even in childhood, are those of love and
wonder : these expand with our growth, and are strengthened with our
strength. A conviction that all beings, especially those which, by nature or
instinct, we find to have the most powerful connection with the best, the
dearest, the most ennobling of our sympathies, are the productions, the
children, of a common, mighty, and inexpressibly beneficent Parent, must
necessarily impress all whose hearts glow with such heart-exalting heart-
purifying conviction with charity, even such as Christ inculcated, one
towards another; with peacefulness, with rapture, with devotion to all things
that are of God, that manifest him first, him midst, him last, and without
end, the omniscient, the omnipotent, the omnipresent. The rapture of the
naturalist is accordant with the emotion of Eve, who says to the instant
source of her joy,

Linnean Socteiy, 375

" With thee conversing I forget all lime;
All seasons, and their change, all please alike.
Sweet is the breath of Morn, her rising sweet.
With charm of earliest birds ; pleasant the Sun,
When first on this delightful land he spreads
His orient beams, on herb, tree, fruit, and flower :....''
But neither .... herb, fruit, flower.
Glistering with dew, .... nor walk by Moon,
Or ghttering star-light, without thee is sweet.'*

Indeed, remove from all human studies this one, single, heart-stirring, all-
uniting, all-ennobhng principle, what are they all but toilsome madness, the
vanity of folly ; — at the best, delusive dreams ; in reality, different modes of
restless selfishness ! Why perplex our minds with any study, if all sympathy be a
mere illusion? The insufficiency of ethical motives, unless something stronger
can impel us than the prospective remote improvement of our contemplative
energies, is too obvious to need proof. Ambition has no check, licentious
selfishness no bounds, if the consciousness of responsibility to an omniscient
Governor be once extinguished. But this hallowed and all-sanctifying con-
sciousness must be first preserved and cultivated by continual contemplation
of those evidences of his ineffable power and goodness, which it has pleased
the Almighty Author of Creation to display around us. Dr. Paley, in his
excellent moral arrangement of natural objects, with a strain of eloquence
quite foreign to his ordinary close and cautiously argumentative style, thus
supports his important proposition, that the Deity has added pleasure to
animal sensations beyond what was necessary for any other purpose than
the beneficent promotion of enjoyment : — " I shall not," says he, " I believe,
be contradicted when I say, that, if one train of thinking be more desirable
than another, it is that which regards the phenomena of nature with a con-
stant reference to a supreme intelligent Author. To have made this the
ruling, the habitual sentiment of our minds, is to have laid the foundation
of every thing which is rehgious. The world, thenceforth, becomes a temple,
and life one continued act of adoration." If this be the certain result of a
sincere, ardent, truth-seeking investigation (and what true disciple of Ray
and of Linnaeus can doubt, after full evidence of his own experience, that it
is so), what more abundant answer can or need be given to the question,
Cui bono? than this? The tendency of our Linnean studies, or our contem-
plation of the glorious universe, is to tranquillise our minds, to purify our
affections, to expand our hearts with veneration and love toward the great
Author of our being and of all being ; to prepare us to meet the day of our
inevitable change, the awful moment in which we know our career on earth
must terminate, with calm undoubting confidence in the Creator, that he
hath not made us in vain, to glitter like motes in the sunbeam, and sink for
ever into shadow, but has enabled us to improve our faculties, and has filled
us with high and holy aspirings, with longings after immortality, which will
not end in disappointment. The beauty and the wonder with which it has
pleased the Creator to invest all his works, the starry firmament, the depths
of the sea and its multitudinous inhabitants, the insect tribes, the reptiles,
the birds, and the beasts, and the whole of the vegetable kingdom, produce,
by all their diversities and analogies, continual excitement, most happily
adapted to prevent weariness and languor of attention ; they occur in all
our paths, before us, beside us, and behind us, above us and below us, by
night and by day. He that planted the ear, shall he not hear ? or he that
made the eye, shall he not see ? Whither shall I go, then, from thy Spirit ?
whither shall I go, then, from thy presence ? Th^nk God ! thank God ! It
cannot be. He has given us the rule of life ; he has sec before us the mira-
culous evidence, in his creation, of the wisdom which ordained the rule ; he
allures us by all loveliness ; he compels us by his majesty, and awes us by

376 Geological Society.

his terrors. To assist in rendering these glorious mutual relations of all
parts of creation familiar to the minds of the multitudes whom daily lahours
of mind and body too much occupy to allow of due leisure for these contem-
plations, is the chosen province of the members of the Linnean Society.
They are thus devoted ministers of God ; and while their labours are duly
directed to the vindication of his ways to man, to the manifestation of his
glory and goodness, they deserve high honour as useful citizens ; they insure
to themselves the best of blessings through time, and, in eternity, the appro-
bation of their God.

I believe I said something on the history of natural science ; but this I
have printed in a slight outline of science, caWeA Int7'bduction to ihe Cata-
logue of the Ashmolean Miiseuvi. Yours, &c. — J. S. Duncan. JNew College ,
Oxford, June 11.1829.

June 2. — Read. A communication from Wm. Yarrell, Esq. F.L.S. &c.,
" On the Organs of Voice in Birds." The author here pursues the subject of
his former paper on the tracheae of birds, and gives descriptions, accompanied
by figures, of the numerous muscles by whose action the varied powers of
the vocal organs of birds are governed. Their organs of voice consist of
four parts : the glottis, or superior larynx, the tube of the trachea, the infe-
rior larynx, and the hronchice. Great difference exists in the relative length
of tube ; short ones producing shrill notes, as in singing birds, and vice
versa in waders and swimmers. Strong, broad, cartilaginous rings give loud
and monotonous voices ; and slender rings, with large space between, admit
variety of tone. Some of these varieties result from the dilatation and con-
traction of the membrana typaniformis, and from the power of altering the
form of the bronchiae. The muscles of the inferior larynx vary from one
pair to five.

June 16. — In the remainder of Mr. Yarrell's paper, the reading of which
was concluded at this Meeting, a great many curious conformations of the
organs of voice, in various birds, were accurately described and compared.
The author states that these are least complex in the Falconidse, some of
the Insessores, almost all the Rasores, Grallatores, and Natatores ; more
complex in the Psittacidae, who alone possess three pair of true muscles of
voice ; but most complex in the Corvi, starUng, larks, thrushes, finches,
warblers, swallows, &c., which all have five. The convolutions in the tra-
cheaB of some species are aptly compared to the additional crooks fixed to
the French-horn, in order to play in a lower key. — A part of a memoir, by
M. Dumortier, was also read, entitled, Recherches sur la Structure comparc'e
et le Develloj)pement des Animaux et des Vegetaux.

Art. V. Geological Society.

March 6. — Read. An Account of a remarkable Fossil Plant in the
Coal Formation of Yorkshire ; by John Lindley, Esq. F.G.S. F.R.S. &c.,
and Professor of Botany in the University of London.

This plant was described as a fern, resembling, in most respects, the
Trichomanes renif6rme, a recent species found in New Zealand, but
differing in the nature of its vernation. It was said to exhibit distinct and
unequivocal traces of the marginal fructification peculiar to the genus
Trichomanes. After comparing it with the fossils comprehended by
M. Adolphe Brongniart in his genus Cyclopteris, and showing that it was
not referable to any known species of that group, the author concluded
by assigning to it a specific character, and the name of Trichomanes
rotundktum.

Ap7il 3. — Read. A paper on the Bituminous Schist and Fossil Fish
of Seefeld in the Tyrol, by Roderick Impey Murchison, Esq. Sec. G.S.

Geological Society. ^77

F.R.S. Sec, and another " On the tertiary deposits of the Cantal, and
their relation to the Primary and Volcanic Rocks," by C. Lyell, Esq.
For, Sec. G.S. F.R.S. &c., and Roderick Impey Murchison, Esq. Sec.
G.S. F.R.S. &c., was begun.

May 1. — Concluded Reading. A paper " On the tertiary deposits of the
Cantal, and their relation to the Primary and Volcanic Rocks," by Charles
Lvell, Esq. For. Sec. G.S. F.R.S. &c., and R. I. Murchison, Esq. Sec.
G.S. F.R.S. &c.

The authors have selected this district for description, because, although
the adjoining fresh-water formations of the Limagne d'Auvergne and of
Puy en Velay have been largely written upon, yet this of the Cantal has
scarcely been noticed by any geologists, except in a cursory manner by
Mr. Scrope, and formerly by M. Brongniart in his general observations on
fresh-water deposits. {Annates du Museum, torn. xv. 1810.)

A paper by Dr. Buckland was read, stating that he has ascertained that
the bony rings of the suckers of cuttle-fish are frequently mixed with the
scales of various fish, and the bones of fish, and of small Ichthyosauri in
the bezoar-shaped fagces from the lias at Lyme Regis. These rings and
scales have passed undigested through the intestines of the Ichthyosauri.
Dr. Prout has also found that the black , varieties of these bezoars owe
their colour to matter of the same nature with the fossil ink-bags in the
lias ; hence it appears that the Ichthyosauri fed largely upon the sepite of .
those ancient seas.

The author has also ascertained, by the assistance of Mr. Miller and
Dr. Prout, that the small, black, rounded bodies of various shapes, and
having a polished surface, which occur mixed with bones in the lowest strata
of the lias on the banks of the Severn, near Bristol, are also of faecal
origin : they appear to be coextensive with this bone-bed, and occur at
many and distant localities. He has also received from Mr. Miller similar
small, black, faecal balls from a calcareous bed, nearly at the bottom of the
carboniferous limestone at Bristol ; this bed abounds with teeth of sharks,
and bones, and teeth, and spines of other fishes : until they can be referred
to their respective animals, the author proposes the name of Nigrum
Grae^cum for all these black varieties of fossil faeces. They may have been
derived from small reptiles or from fish, and in the case of the lias bone-
bed, from the molluscous inhabitants of fossil nautili and ammonites, and
belemnites. In a collection at Lyme Regis there is a fossil fish from the
lias, which has a ball of Nigrum Grae^cum within its body; for this the
author proposes the name of Fchthyo-copros. He also proposes to affix
the name of Sauro-copros to the so-called bezoar stones of the lias at
Lyme Regis, which are derived from the Ichthyosauri ; and the name of
Hyaino-copros to the A'lbum Grae'cum of the fossil hyaena.

The form and mechanical structure of the balls of Sauro-copros, disposed
in spiral folds round a central axis, are so similar to that of the supposed
fir-cones or luli in the chalk and chalk marl, that the author has concluded
that these so long misnamed luli are also of faecal origin. On examination
he finds many of them to contain the scales of fish ; and Dr. Front's
analysis proves their substance to be digested bone. The spiral intestines
of the modern shark and ray aifbrd an analogy that may explain the origin
of this spiral structure ; and the abundance of the teeth of sharks and
palates of rays in chalk, renders it possible that the luli may have been
derived from these animals. For these the provisional name of Copros
iuloldes is proposed. In the collection of Colonel Houlton of Farley
Castle, are several specimens of the Copros iuloides from the quarries of
Maestricht.

The author has also recognised two other varieties of these faecal sub-
stances, in a collection of fossils brought from the fresh-water formations
near Aix in Provence by Messrs. Murchison and Lyell.
Vol. II. — No. 9. c c

378 Geological Society.

The author concludes that he has established generally the curious fact,
that, in formations of all ages, from the carboniferous limestone to the
diluvium, the faeces of terrestrial and aquatic carnivorous animals have
been preserved ; and proposes to include them all under the generic name
of Coprolite.

The examples he produces from the carboniferous limestone, the lias,
the Hastings sandstone, the chalk marl and chalk, the Maestricht rock, the
fresh-water deposits at Aix, and the diluvium, are taken respectively from
the several great periods into which geological formations are divided.

May 15. and June 5. — Read. A paper *• On the Hydrographical Basin of
the Thames, with a view more especially to investigate the causes which
have operated in the formation of the valleys of that river, and its tribu-
tary streams; " by the Rev. W. D. Conybeare, F.G.S. F.R.S. &c. &c.

The author has selected this river, not only as being the principal one
of the island, but further as exhibiting valleys exclusively the result of
denudation, and therefore better suited to illustrate that operation than
valleys of more complicated origin, in the formation of which the elevation
and dislocation of the strata have cooperated.

He first offers some introductory remarks on the opposite theories of
the fluvialist and diluvialist, the former ascribing such denudations exclu-
sively to the operation of the streams actually existing, or rather to the
drainage of the "atmospherical waters, falling on the districts, which, it is
supposed, have become thus deeply furrowed by the gradual erosion of
these waters, continued through a long and indefinite series of ages; the
latter contending that such a cause is totally inadequate to the solution
of the phenomena, and maintaining that they afford evidence of having
been produced by violent diluvial currents.

He proceeds to distinguish several different geological epochs, at which
it is probable that currents must have taken place calculated to excavate
and modify the existing surface. I. In the ocean, beneath which the
strata were originally deposited. H. During the retreat of that ocean.
III. At the periods of more violent disturbance, which are evidenced by
the occurrence of fragmentary rocks, the result of violent agitations in
the waters of the then existing ocean propagated from the shocks attend-
ant on the elevation and dislocation of the strata. — Four such periods
are enumerated as having left distinct traces in the EngHsh strata, 1. That
which has formed the pudding stone of the old red sandstone, ascribed to
the elevation of the transition rocks. 2. That which has formed the
conglomerates of the new red sandstone, ascribed to the elevation of the
carboniferous rocks. 5. That which has formed the gravel beds of the
plastic clay. 4. That which has produced the superficial gravel, spread
alike oyer the most recent and oldest rocks as a general covering, and
which is found to contain bones of extinct Mammalia : this (it is agreed)
may be identified as the product of one era, by the same evidence which
is employed to demonstrate the unity of any other geological formation.
Although diluvialists have usually directed their principal attention to the
effects of the currents of this latest epoch of general disturbance, they by
no means exclude the cooperation of any of the causes above enumerated.
In the body of his paper, the author considers the physical history of
the Thames as divisible into the following sections. I. The collection of
its head waters from the drainage of the Cotteswold uplands. II. The
passage which it has forced across the Oxford chain of hills. III. That
opened in like manner across the Chiltern Hills to the London basin at
Reading. IV. The re-entry of the river among those hills by the Henley
defile. V. Its course through the plains of London to the sea.

I. The head waters of the Thames are collected from the drainage of
the Cotteswold uplands, over a tract about 50 miles in length, consti-

Geological Society » 379

tuting the rivers Isis, Churn, Colne, Lech, Windrush, Evenlode, and
Cherwell ; this chain of hills being entirely broken through by the Colne,
Evenlode, and Cherwell, which rise from sources in the lias plains beyond
its escarpment. The height of most of these sources is calculated at about
400 ft. above the sea.

Each of these valleys is separately described, and the general features
of denudation presented by the Cotteswold chain are pointed out ; these,
it is asserted, bear traces of the most violent action, and they are con-
trasted with the state of repose which has evidently prevailed in the same
districts from the period to which our earliest historical monuments ascend.
In the most exposed situations, and those which appear to have suffered
most from the action of the denuding causes, earth works of British and
Roman antiquity are frequently found, attesting by their perfect preserva-
tion that the form of the surface has remained unaltered since the time of
their construction. The drainage of the atmospherical waters has here
produced no sensible effect for more than fifteen centuries : it is inferred,
therefore, that to assign to this cause the excavation of the adjoining
valleys, 600 or 700 ft. deep, is to ascribe to it an agency for which we have
no evidence; the evidence, indeed, as far as it can be examined, being
adverse.

The disposition of the water-worn debris, drifted against the Cotteswold
chain and through the breaches opened in it, is also examined ; and much
of it is shown to be derived from rocks situated to the north of the valley
of the Warwickshire Avon, and to be completely cut off by that valley
from the Cotteswold district. It is contended that pebbles of this origin
can never have been transported by the actual streams, because the drain-
age of these streams is, and always must have been, from the escarpment
of the Cotteswolds to the valley of Avon; whereas the course of the
pebbles is directly opposite, viz. across the Avon, and thence to that escarp-
ment and through its breaches. The valley of Shipston on Stour, which
is described as a species of bay in the escarpment of the Cotteswold, is stated
to contain the most remarkable instance of this disposition.

II. The river collected from these head waters flows through the plain of
Oxford, which is covered to a great extent by water-worn debris ; these are
diffused over situations inaccessible to the present floods, and, if produced
by the actual streams, we must suppose that they have repeatedly changed
their channel, so as to have flowed successively over every portion of the
plain where these debris are now found ; the oldest historical monuments
attest, however, the permanence of the actual channels, and the floods at
present bring down no pebbles whatsoever.

On the south of the plain at Oxford, the progress of the river is opposed
by a chain of hills, called by the author the Oxford chain. This is passed
by a defile broken through it. Were that defile closed, an extensive lake
would be formed above Oxford, and the waters would be turned into the
valley of the Ouse ; by which they would empty themselves into the estuary
of the Wash.

The author enquires how this configuration of the valleys could have been
produced on the fluvialist's theory. He argues, that if the Oxford chain
originally (as at present) formed a barrier of superior elevation to the tract
intervening between itself and the Cotteswolds, that barrier must have turned
all the drainage of the Cotteswolds into the vale of Ouse. Under those
circumstances, the crest of the Oxford chain could never have been eroded
by waters which would have flowed off in another direction. There is, how-
ever, another alternative ; and the interval between these chains may be
supposed to have formed originally a uniformly inclined plane, from the
summits of the one to those of the other, along which the waters once
flowed, and which they have since furrowed (by perpetually deepening their

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380 Geological Society,

channels; into the present valleys. The author calculates the mass of ma-
terials which must, on this supposition, have been excavated and washed
away, and contends that the drainage of atmospherical waters along such an
inclined plane (which would have a fall of 10 ft. per mile) does not afford
an agent adequate to such vast operations.

The Oxford chain has suffered greatly from denudation, being broken into
several detached groups.

Among these, some insulated summits are capped by patches of gravel,
partly derived from transition rocks, partly from the chalk formation.
These prove the extent to which denudation must have proceeded since
they were lodged in their present situation ; as they must have been trans-
ported from their native habitats along uniformly inclined planes, which
have subsequently been excavated.

III. Issuing from the defile of the Oxford chain, the'river flows through the
plain of Abingdon and Dorchester, being joined by the Ock and the Thame.
This plain, like that of Oxford, is deeply and extensively covered with
water-worn debris. It is also similarly bounded by a lofty chain (like that
of the Chilterns) on the south. An enormous breach is opened in this bar-
rier for the passage of the river. All the same arguments apply in this case,
which were previously urged with regard to the passage of the Oxford chain.

The Chilterns, like most other chalky districts, abound with dry valleys,
the rifted and absorbent structure of that rock not permitting the rain waters
to collect into streams ; these valleys agree in every other feature with those
containing water-courses, and have been obviously excavated by the same
denuding causes, which, in this case, it is self-evident could not have been
river waters. The surface of the chalk has been deeply and violently eroded,
and is deeply covered with its own debris ; this action appears, in part, to have
taken place during the epoch of the plastic clay formation.

IV. The river having passed this defile, enters, for the first time, the Lon-
don basin, near Reading, where it receives the Kennet, of which the course
is shortly described. It rises in the chalk marl, beneath the chalk escarp-
ment, a few miles beyond Marlborough ; that escarpment being broken
through in several places, to give passage to its head waters. The author
insists, again, on the contrast between the extensive denudations which must
have occurred in this district and the permanence of its surface, as attested
by the preservation of the numerous druidical and other British monuments
scattered over these downs.

A little below Reading, the Thames (first having received another small
tributary, the Loddon) quits for a time the London basin, to re-enter, by a
sudden bend, another deep defile among the chalk hills, ranging by Henley
and Marlow to Maidenhead, when it finally enters the plains of London.
It is difficult to account for this deflection of the river, as a straighter course
appears open to it by White Waltham to Bray. This line was surveyed for
a canal by Mr. Brindley, and appears to be level to White Waltham, and
thence to fall 47 feet to Mankey Island, near Bray ; so that a dam of a few
feet across the river below Sunning, at the mouth of the Loddon, would turn
the waters into this channel. The author conceives, the most natural mode
of explaining this deflection of the river is, by the supposition that a higher
range of tertiary strata once extended from the ridges of Bagshot heath in
this direction, forming a bar to the progress of the stream in this line.

V. The plains of London are covered with enormous accumulations of
water- worn debris, chiefly of chalk-flints, and often abounding in fossil re-
mains of elephants, hippopotami, &c. ; the gravel is not confined to the low
grounds, but caps the highest summits of the district; e.g. Highgate on the
north, and Shooter's Hill on the south, of the river. To explain this distri-
bution of this gravel by the operation of the actual rivers, the author observes
that it is necessary, first, to suppose that a uniform plane originally existed
fi'om the summit of Highgate to the Hertfordshire chalk downs, and from

Geological Society, 381

the top of Shooter's Hill to those of Kent, on the surface of which the rivers
once flowed ; secondly, that these rivers have subsequently washed away all
that immense mass of materials which would be requisite thus to reconstruct
the surface ; and, thirdly, that, having worn down that surface into nearly
its present form, the rivers perpetually shifted their channels, so as to distri-
bute the gravel equally over the whole plain of London, yet remained long
enough in each channel to lodge there deposits of this gravel 20 ft. or 30 ft.
thick.

A paper was also read, entitled " A few Facts and Observations as to the
Power which running Water exerts in removing heavy Bodies,'* by Matthew
Culley, Esq. F.G.S. &c., in a letter to Roderick Impey Murchison, Esq.
Sec.G.S.F.R.S.&c.

The heavy rains which fell during three days of August, 1827, swelled to
an unusual height the small rivulet called the College, which flows at a
moderate declivity from the eastern watershed of the Cheviot Hills, and
caused that stream not only to transport enormous accumulations of several
thousand tons' weight of gravel and sand to the plain of the Till, but also to
carry away a bridge then in progress of building, some of the arch-stones of
which, weighing from one half to three fourths of a ton each, were pro-
pelled two miles down the rivulet.

On the same occasion, the current tore away, from the abutment of a
mill-dam, a large block of greenstone porphyry, weighing nearly two tons,
and transported the same to the distance of a quarter of a mile. Instances
are related, as occurring repeatedly, in which from one to three thousand
tons of gravel are in like manner removed to great distances in one day ;
and the author asserts, that, whenever 400 or 500 cart-loads of this gravel
are taken away for the repair of roads, one moderate flood replaces the
amount of loss with the same quantity of rounded debris.

Parallel cases of the power of water are stated to occur in the Tweed,
near Coldstream.

June 19. A paper " On the occurrence of Agates in the Dolomitic Strata
of the New Red Sandstone Formation in the Mendip Hills," by the Rev.W.
Buckland, D.D. V.P.G.S. F.R.S. &c. &c., was read. These agates are
ploughed out of the surface of the fields at Sandford, near Banwell, and are
nearly allied to the potato stones, which abound in the new red sandstone
formation that surrounds the Mendip Hills. Their prevailing colours are
various shades of grey ; their internal structure resembles that of the bird's-
eye agate, presenting alternate bands of chalcedony, jasper, and hornstone,
disposed in irregular and concentric curves ; some specimens from Worle
and Clevedon are of the nature of fine jasper agates, and of a bright red
colour.

A shallow pit, from which the agates are extracted at Sandford, presents
the following section : —

1 . Yellow clay, mixed with magnesia and carbonate of lime - - 6 in.

2. Yellow dolomite, used as firestone in linekilns ; it crumbles readily
to a soft powder, and is filled with specks of manganese, and con-
tains veins of small nodules of chalcedony - - 6

3. Yellow clay, falling to powder, in water, like fuller's earth, and
containing much carbonate of lime and magnesia. In this clay the
agates are dispersed irregularly, like nodules of flint in chalk - 6

4. Yellow clay and earthy dolomite, to the bottom of the pit - 1 2

The author adduces a parallel example of beds and nodules of jasper and
jasper-agate in the mountains of dolomite, near Palermo, in a formation of
the same age with the new red sandstone of the Mendip Hills. He also gives
examples of agates formed in cavities of chert of the green-sand formation,
near Lyme Regis, and in cavities of silicified wood and silicified corals and
shells. The most beautiful specimens of the two former are from the ter-

c c 3

S82 Geological Society,

tiary strata of Antigua. Shells converted into chalcedony, and containing
agates in their cavities, occur near Exeter, in the whetstone pits of the
green-sand formation at Black Down Hill ; and shells, entirely converted to
red jasper, in sand of the same formation, at Little Haldon Hill.

A paper was next read "On the Tertiary Fresh-water Formations of Aix,
in Provence, including the Coal field of Fuveau," by Roderick Impey Mur-
chison, Esq. Sec. G.S. F.R.S. &c., and Charles Lyell, Esq. For. Sec. G.S.
F.R.S. &c. ; with a description of fossil insects contained therein, by John
Curtis, Esq. F.L.S.

The oldest and fundamental rock of this district is a highly inclined and
contorted secondary limestone, containing Belemnites, Gryphites, and Te-
rebratulae, on which is uncomformably deposited a vast fresh-water form-
ation, the relations of which are shown in a section from JN.E. to S. W.
The escarpment of white marl and limestone, N. E. of the town of Aix, is
first described in descending series. The upper beds, consisting of white
calcareous marls and marlstone, calcareo-silicious millstone and resinous
flint, contain the Potamides Lamarckii, Bulimus terebra and B. pygmse'us,
with a new species of Cyclas named C. gibbosa, and the subjacent strata run
out into a terrace, beneath which gypsum is extensively worked. Of these
beds (minutely detailed), some are peculiarly characterised by their abund-
ance of fossil fish, and others by a profusion of plants ; amongst which, Mr.
Lindley has recognised Flabellkria Lamanonw of M. Ad. Brongniart, and the
leaves of iaurus dulcis? Podocarpus macrophylla? and ^uxus balearica?
the terminal pinna of a leguminous plant, referable to iotese or Pha-
seoleae of Decandolle, the branch of a Thuja nearly related to T. articulata,
and what appears to be the fruit of some unknown plant, &c. In this upper
system of gypsum, the fossil insects occur exclusively in a finely laminated
bed of about 2 in. thick ; and still lower are two other ranges of gypsum,
the upper one of which alone is worked; and the marls associated therewith
contain nearly as great a quantity of fossil fish as those of the upper zone.
Beneath these are beds of white and pink-coloured marlstone and marl, in-
clined at 25° to 50°, and distinguished by Potamides Lamarckw, and a new
species of Cyclas, named C. A^quae Sextiae, and these pass downwards into a
red sandstone (Molasse) and a coarse conglomerate (Nagelfleu), the town of
Aix being situated at the base of the whole of the above series.

In continuing the sectional line to the S. W., all the district between Aix
and Fuveau is made up of parallel ridges of fresh-water rocks ; the most
northerly containing red marl and fibrous gypsum, with Limnae^ae and
Planorbes (P. rotundatus) ; the intermediate range is of mere earthy lime-
stone, containing Limnae^ae and Gyrogonites, with micaceous sandstone and
shale ; and, lastly, the coal field of Fuveau is described as composed of grey,
blue, and black compact limestone and shale, with stony bituminous coal of
good quality ; the united thickness of the different seams of which amounts
to about 5 ft. The fossils characterising the carboniferous strata are two
new species of Cyclas, named C. cuneata and C. concinna, a Melania named
M. scalaris, Planorbis cornu, and a large species of U'nio. Casts of Gyro-
gonites were observed even in the coal itself j and the charcoal seemed, in
some instances, to be made up of a plant resembling Endogenites bacillare
of Brongniart.

The authors remark that these lower members of this great tertiary de-
posit differ in character from any other fresh-water group examined by them
m central France, and have so much the aspect of the most ancient second-
ary rocks, that the presence alone of fluviatile and lacustrine shells, with
Gyrogonites, compelled them to recognise the comparatively recent date of
the whole group.

This notice was accompanied by observations on the fossil insects men-
tioned in the preceding memoir, by John Curtis, Esq. F.L.S. These insects
are all of European forms, and are most of them referable to existing genera*

Natural History in the English Counties. 383

The greater portions belong to the orders Diptera and Hemiptera ; the
Coleoptera are next in number ; there are only a few Hymenoptera, and but
one Lepidopterous insect. '' As a larger collection," says Mr. Curtis, " might
greatly change the proportion of the different orders, no positive inference,
as to climate, should be drawn from the present assemblage ; but there is
nothing in the character of the insects to warrant the supposition of a higher
temperature than that of the South of France." The great portion of these
remains were very probably brought together from different localities by
floods, mountain torrents, or rivers ; yet there is no insect among them that
might not be found in a moist wood. The antennae, tarsi, and other parts
whereby the characters would be best distinguished, are often wanting ; yet
enough characters frequently remain even then to distinguish the genus.
The sculpture, and even some degree of colouring, are preserved in several
specimens. The wings of some beetles are extended beyond the elytra,
showing that when they perished, they were flying or attempting to escape
by flight.

Art. VI. Natural History in the English Counties,
Kent.

Museum of the Canterbury Philosophical and Literary Institution. — At the
commencement of the year 1825, while yet this institution was in its infancy,
certain of its members conceived the idea of establishing a museum, as the
most desirable means of diffusing information on various subjects connected
with general knowledge, and more especially with the several departments of
natural history. In a short time, and before any actual formation existed,
an opportunity occurred of obtaining the collection of Mr. Crow, late of
Margate, who had expended a long life in the acquisition of fossils, to
which some other miscellaneous articles were appended ; and thus a basis
was formed for the present arrangement.

Mr. Crow has been a most persevering collector of fossils, &c., through
the whole of his long life, and many rare specimens will attest his acumen
as a collector. Scientific arrangement he did not affect, and most of the
specimens came even unnamed from him to the Society. Many depart-
ments have since been commenced by the industry and perseverance of
some of its members, aided by the liberal contributions of the public.

Where it could with propriety be followed, the arrangement of Linnaeus
has been adopted ; and where it is departed from, the name of the system
is either furnished on the ticket, or in the article which treats of the subject
in the Synopsis.

The museum comprises models of Egyptian and Roman architectural
antiquities, and also of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Bastile, the Pagoda
at Pekin, Kits Coty House, remarkable for the combat between the Britons
and Saxons in 445, and the singular arched rock at Tologa Bay, New Zea-
land. It also possesses an interesting collection of antiques, Greek and
Roman, together with the curfew bell which hung in Dover Castle from a
short time anterior to the battle of Hastings. There is a collection of
Greek, Roman, British, and Saxon coins ; and, among the more modern
English coins, is an Anglo-Gallic penny of Henry IV., and one of the
current farthings of Queen Anne, in fine preservation. As illustrative
of the manners and customs of different nations, it possesses various
articles, religious, warlike, and domestic, from the East Indies, South
Sea Islands, north-west coast of America, New Zealand, China, and Lap-
land. — In adopting an arrangement for the minerals, it has been con-
sidered most advisable to select that which should ofter the greatest facilities

c c 4

38 i Natural History i?i the English Counties.

for the general information of the public, and, at the same time, be suf-
ficiently scientific for all the objects of the institution. Professor Jameson's,
erected upon the system of the illustrious Werner, has been found best
calculated to effect these objects ; more especially as it will permit accumu-
lations to be thrown into the respective families or groups of which it is
composed, without deranging the series. But as no system of mineralogy,
strictly speaking, embraces the numerous aggregates so extensively scattered
throughout the regions of the earth, a class has been appended to the four
forming the system of Jameson, for the purpose of comprehending them,
and of making the arrangement complete. All the objects, therefore, form-
ing this department of the museum are arranged under the five following
classes: — 1. Earthy minerals; 2. Saline minerals; 3. InflammrWe mine-
rals ; 4. Metallic minerals ; J. Aggregates. Under each of these classes
there is an instructive assemblage of specimens. With regard to aggregates,
it is observed that isolated specimens are of themselves of but little value ;
but when in assemblage with a natural series of bodies mutually related
they become singularly interesting and instructive. It is therefore hoped
that the lovers of science, possessing objects of this description, will favour
the institution, by presenting such as they may have, to be arranged with
this collection. The Society is largely indebted to Dr. Carter and Mr.
Alderman Browne, who have considerably augmented the number of Eu-
ropean specimens j and to General Miller of Wingham, for a valuable case
of South Anerican minerals. — The museum is rich in fossils, from the
gigantic /-ammoth to the minute zoophyte. During the formation of the
new road at Boughton Hill, a period of nearly four years, a great number of
fossils were found through the unremitting industry of Mr. H.Wrighte, which
he has since presented to the Society. Amongst them is a common hazel
nut, so perfectly muicralised that sparks may be elicited from it by con-
cussion with flint or metal. This specimen was seen by the late Dr. Clarke,
Professor of Mineralogy at Cambridge, and pronounced by him to be per-
fectly unique. One of the most interesting is the strobilus, or cone, of some
tree of the fir or cypress family, with its footstalk : it looks as perfect in its
detail as if fresh from the tree ; as do also the catkins of some of the amen-
taceous trees. Amongst the fossils is a lobster, remarkable as being one of
the most perfect specimens hitherto met with. It was very highly valued
by its late possessor, and has been eagerly enquired for by the scientific who
have visited the present institution. It does not appear to differ in any
particular from the species at present used as an article of food. — There are
a collection of dried specimens of plants, and several vegetable skeletons
principally executed by Mr. Crow. — In the conchological department there
IS 'a complete collection of British shells, presented by Henry Boys, Esq.,*of
Eastry. — The present collection of insects has been arranged on the system of
Linnasus, as being the most simple, though it must be acknowledged that some
of the genera of the order A'ptera contain insects that ought to have been
referred by him to other classes. Later naturalists have done this, and it is
intended to arrange the present collection again, for this purpose, at some
future period. — The birds are arranged according to the Linnean classi-
fication, and are exhibited as they stand in the Systhna Naturce.

The foregoing slight outline of a museum, which bids fair to rival any
provincial museum in the kingdom, we have been enabled to give through
the kindness of the curator, Mr. William Masters, F.H.S. — 1

Chatham Philosophical and Literary Institution. — At the Annual Meeting
of the shareholders, held at the Sun Tavern, Chatham, on Tuesday the 29th
of September, 1828, W. A. Davies,M.D. V.P., in the chair; the Secretary,
Mr. T. Baldock, read the report of the Committee, and the Treasurer,
Mr. T. Atkinson, the accounts for the past year. The Curator read the
list of the donations presented to the museum during the year. Officers
were elected for the year ensuing, and various resolutions passed.

Natural History iri the English Counties. 385

From the report of the Committee, we find that the library contains
upwards of 600 volumes, 200 of which have been purchased by direction of
the Committee, at the expense of 96/. These include several standard and
voluminous works, indispensable to a public library. The remainder of the
library is composed of volumes presented by proprietors, annual subscribers,
and friends to the Institution ; and amongst them there are many works
adorning English literature, which could not have been expected thus early
upon the shelves without the assistance of those proprietors, who have
taken so effectual a method of demonstrating their anxiety for the pros-
perity of the Institution. In addition to the above works, the reading-room
has been regularly supplied with all the most useful reviews and magazines.
The museum contains upwards of 2000 specimens of natural history, &c.,
many of them of great rarity and value.

Upon the general affairs and future prospects of the Institution, the Com-
mittee caii speak with great pleasure; and " they cannot close their labours
without a cordial expression of their gratification at the success which has
thus far attended the Institution. They have a confident hope that, by the
collective and individual exertion of the proprietors, and by unanimity
amongst those to whom the direction of the affairs is intrusted, every
prospect that was, in the first instance, contemplated, will be fully and
speedily realised." — t

Essex.

"Plants collected hy the Rev. S. Palmer of Chigivell, Essex. The rather
uncommon marked with a star (*), the more rare with a cross (f ). —
filfelampyram cristatum : this rare plant was gathered in a wood between
Linton and Saffion Walden. * Jliymus iVepeta, near Audley End. Vero-
nica scutellata, officinalis, spicata, Epping Forest, near Thoydon. Lycopus
europae^us, common in ditches in the neighbourhood of Chigwell. Bidens
tripartita and c^rnua, common in ditches in the neighbourhood of Chig-
well. ^upat6rm?M cannabinum, common in ditches in the neighbourhood
of Chigwell. fAspidium Thelypteris, i^ilix Mas, aculeatum, and loba-
tum, common in ditches in the neighbourhood of Chigwell. Picris echid-
ides and /^ieracioides, common in ditches in the neighbourhood of Chig-
well. iysimachia nemorum, Hainault Forest, near Chigwell Row. *rer-
bascum ^lattaria, Epping Forest, near Loughton. f Tormentilla reptans,
hedges, Mr. Palmer's, Chigwell. *^ntirrhinum -Elatine, common in ditches
in the neighbourhood of Chigwell. fThlaspi arv^nsis, on a dunghill in the
lane leading to Hainault Forest from Abridge. tBartsi« alpina, Epping
Forest, near Thoydon. iZypericum f^ndrosae'mum, *pulchrum, humifusum,
and other plants of the same family, Hainault Forest. Terbena officinalis,
Loughton Hall, f Tbrdylium officinale, in a field by the lane leading from
Thoydon to Loughton. Astragalus hypoglottis, Forest, near Woodford
Bridge.

It is evident, from the above list, that a more promising field than this
neighbourhood, for botanical researches, will not be found in the vicinity of
London. I did not commence my search till after the middle of Septem-
ber, before which time many flowers had disappeared ; but, from what has
been accomplished, an estimate may be formed of what remains to be done
when the proper season arrives.

These forests, with the neighbouring country, afford great diversity of
soil, and endless variety of shade, exposure, and surface. Numerous marsh
and aquatic plants grow about the rivers Lea and Rodon ; besides, there
are many purling streams, in various parts of the forest, whose deep mar-
gins and turfy banks will amply gratify, with their modest beauties, the
most enthusiastic admirer of flowers and sylvan scenery. — S. P. Sept.
1828.

S8S Natural History in the English Counties.'^

Hertfordshire.

Plants collected by the Rev. S. Palmer of Ckigwell, Essex. The rather
uncommon marked with a star(*), the more rare with a cross (f). —
Asp^rula odorata, common in a copse near Leverstock Green, Hemel
Hempstead. Menyanthes trifoliata, marshes near Two Waters. 'Campa-
nula hjbrida, corn fields, Hemel Hempstead ; this is the original of the
favourite garden annual, Venus's Looking-Glass. *iyyoscyamus niger, road-
side near the Swan, below Two Waters. *iViarclssus Pseudo-iVarclssus
grows spontaneously in the meadows near Leverstock Green. *Paris qua-

drifolia, Hon. Ryder's park, near Hemel Hempstead. fTragopogon

joorrifolius, edges of fields near Hemel Hempstead. O'rchis bifolia, copses
near Hemel Hempstead. *0'phrys muscifera and «pifera,on the chalk bank

of a field between the Swan and the Hon. Ryder's Park. *0'phrys

aranifera was found in a copse near a brick-work, on the side of the lane
leading from Two Waters to Leverstock Green. — S. P. Sept. 1828.

Huntingdonshire.

Plant collected by the Rev. S. Palmer of Chigwelli Essex. — (Stratiotes
aloides, ditches near Molesworth. — S. P. Sept. 1828.

Cambridgeshire.

The Cambridge Philosophical Society have lately purchased an extensive
collection of British birds. The money for the purpose was raised by sub-
scription ; and it is highly gratifying to observe that nine tenths of the
subscribers are clergymen.

The wild Cochineal Insect found in the Botanic Garden at Cambndge. —
Dr. Gorman discovered, a few weeks ago, the Grona sylvestris, or wild
species of the cochineal, living among the leaves of the coffee plants, the
acacia, &c., in the botanic garden at Cambridge. This is the kermes, or
gronilla of Spain, about which so much has been said ; some endeavouring
to identify it with the Grona fina, and others as strenuously denying such
identity.

At all events, this is the same species as the gronilla found on the leaves
of the green oaks in the Ronda Marisca, in Andalusia ; and, in some years,
large and valuable crops of the gronilla are gathered in that part of Spain
by the peasantry, and sold to the Moors to dye their scarlet.

The gardener at Cambridge could not inform Dr. Gorman how long
the insects had been there, or whence they came ; but they went there by
the appellation of " Amelca bug." The gardener found these insects very
destructive to plants upon which they fastened; and although he tried
every means, short of injuring the plants, to remove them, he found it im-
possible, as they adhere to the leaves and parts of the stem with such
tenacity, and are so prolific, that the young ones are often found spreading
themselves over the neighbouring plants. On this account, it would be
worth while to attempt the cultivation of the prickly pear in the open air
in this country, and place the insects upon them ; for, in all probability,
the insects would, by good management, do well. — A Traveller y in the
Times, January 26. 1829.

Plants collected by the Rev. S. Palmer of Chigwell, Essex. — Delphinium
Consolida, corn fields on the roads between Loham and Fordham. Cen-
tauriea Calcitrapa, near Newmarket. Butomus umbellatus, ditches near
Chatteris. — S. P. Sept. 1 828.

Suffolk.

Bungay Botanical Society. — This Society was established in April 8. 1826
Its rules nave been transmitted to us, and from them we learn that the

Natural History in the English Counties, 387

members meet once a month, at 7 o'clock in the evening from April 1. to
October 51., and at 6 o'clock from November l. to March 51. At each
meeting every member pays eight-pence to the treasurer, to form a fund for
the purchase of books, for the expenses of the annual feast, &c. Members
are admitted by ballot. The feast is held on the Tuesday preceding the
longest day, when 5s. is allowed to each member, for that purpose, from the
fund. Members may invite friends, on giving due notice to the president,
and paying 5s. for such admission. The money remaining, after the ex-
penses of the feast and other contingencies are disbursed, is laid out in
books, which are kept for the use of the members. When any plants are
brought to the meeting, they are shown to the members ; and those who
state their correct names in writing are entitled to a mark. The member
who gets most marks is chosen president for the following year, and vice-
president for the one succeeding ; and, while in office, he is expected to
give the members every information in his power, without claiming any
marks for himself. No more than thirty members are allowed to belong to
the Society at one time, and while four attend its meetings it is to remain
undissolved. Expulsion of members, alterations in rules, &c., are decided,
as usual, by majorities. We observe that a Hortus Siccus was to be com-
menced on the formation of the Society, and kept with the books, for the
inspection of the members. — t

The Discovert/ of Plants varying with white Flowers seems to be quite
fashionable, and I must, of course, do something in that way. A short
time since a friend of mine took me to two meadows about five miles from
this place, in which there was a profusion of the Colchicum autumnale, and
the variety with white flowers was equally abundant with the purple. It
was a truly delightful spectacle, — Daniel Stock. Bungay, Nov, 17. 1828.

Triodia procumbens. — I have also, since I wrote to you last, found a
grass growing on Bungay Common, which was new to me and to our bota-
nists here ; it was the Triodia procumbens of Smith, in tolerable abundance.
— Id,

Gloucestershire.

A White Rooky in full feather, was taken at Eyford rookery, on the
estate of Vernon Dolphin, Esq. The eyes were blue, with two white rings,
and the legs and bill perfectly white, as well as the body. — Cheltenham
Chronicle, May.

Herefordshire.

Vicus minor. — You mentioned in your Magazine (Vol. I. p. 595.) the Picus
minor as being a rare bird. In the large oak groves of Herefordshire it
abounds, and may constantly be heard emitting its jarring note, though dif-
ficult to be seen. — William Henry Hill. Newland, Gloucestershire, Sept. 10,
1828.

Northamptonshire.

Plants collected by the Rev. S. Palmer, the rather uncommon marked with
a star (*). — ^yoscjamus niger, Barnwell, All Saints, near Oundle. A'tropa
Belladonna, road-sides near Peterborough, also in Blatherwicke Park, at
KingsclifTe. *Cynogl6ssum sylvaticum, the same. *^quilegia vulgaris, woods
between Wansford and Kingscliffe. *Datura Stramonium, Blatherwicke.
*^ambucus JE'bulus, Rockingham Forest, near Kirby House. — S. P.

Northumberland.

Newcastle upon Tyne Literary and Philosophical Society. — The Museum
Committee commence their Report for May, 1827, by informing the So-

388 Natural Historic m the English Counties.

ciety, that, in consequence of the acquisition, by Mr. Fox, of the original
manuscript catalogue of the museum, they have it in their power to con-
tradict the report that only a part of the museum had come into the pos-
session of the Society.

Considering the real value of the museum to depend upon the facility it
affords to students to acquire knowledge with ease and precision ; and that
to become thoroughly acquainted with British, is the sure road to the
more extensive field of foreign, natural history, the Committee have parti-
cularly directed their attention to the obtaining and arrangement of the
productions of this kingdom ; and with this view they had printed and cir-
culated a list oi desiderata of British birds. By this measure 26 species, out
of 1 1 5 which were wanting, were almost immediately procured, and the
ornithologist may now have an opportunity, by inspecting the collection, of
ascertaining above two thirds of the British species, besides several varieties,
and 1 52 species of foreign birds.

Of the British shells, two thirds have been presented and are arranged
in the cabinets, together with a considerable number of exotic specimens,
and some corallines ; and one half of the phaenogamous plants may be con-
sulted in the herbarium.

In the geological department the museum is rich, possessing not less than
3000 specimens ; and the Committee feel warranted in saying, that there is
scarcely a formation in the kingdom which has not contributed to the col-
lection. In this department, as well as that of the plants, the museum also
possesses several foreign specimens.

Independently of the British, there have been arranged into genera, by the
curator and other gentlemen conversant with the subject, nearly 1000 foreign
species of insects j and, in consequence of the very liberal donation of jars,
by the Northumberland Glass Company, the valuable collection of reptiles
and snakes will, by the same assistance, be also ready for inspection in a
short time.

The Committee conclude by stating the decisive opinion of Mr. Sabine,
whose knowledge in these branches of science few will venture to dispute,
that the Literary and Philosophical Society of Newcastle upon Tyne had
done great service to naturalists in general, by preserving entire so curious
and valuable a collection as the Wycliffe museum, and to those of this dis-
trict in particular, where these specimens are now safely deposited.

126 distinct presents have been made to the museum since the last anni-
versary^, many of them containing a great variety of subjects of natural his-
tory ; in all, amounting to considerably above 200.

The following is the list of desiderata: — Land Birds. Ring-tailed eagle,
Falco fulvus ; Honey buzzard, Falco «plvorus ; Goshawk, Falco j^alumba-
rius; Lanner, Falco lanarius; Spotted falcon Perm., Falco versicolor; Ash-
coloured falcon, Falco cinerarius; Woodchat, Lanius rufus; Mountain
bunting, Emberiza montana; Lapland finch, Emberiza calcarata; Parrot
crossbill, LoxiaPytiopsittacus; Spotted flycatcher, Muscicapa Grisola; Rock
lark, ^'nthus aquaticus; Dusky lark, ^lauda obscura; Richard's pipit, J'n-
thus Richardi ; Red lark, ^lauda rubra ; Grasshopper warbler, Sylvia Locus-
tella ; Reed warbler, Sylvia arundinacea ; Lesser whitethroat, Sylvia Sylvi-
^lla ; Wheatear, Sylvia CEnanthe; Alpine warbler. Accentor alpinus; Crested
titmouse, Parus cristatus; Rock dove, Columba Liv'm. — Water Birds.
Black stork, ^'rdea nigra; Crane, ^^rdea G^rus; Gardenian heron, ^^rdea
Garden? ; Purple heron, -^'rdea purpurea; Squacco heron, ^^rdea comata;
Little egret, A'rdea, Garzetta ; Great white heron, ^'rdea alba ; Freckled
white heron, ^'rdea lentiginosa; Cayenne night heron, ^'rdea cayanensis ;
Ibis, Tantalus fancin^llus; Pygmy curlew, iVumenius pygmae'us; Curlew dun-
lin, Tringa subarquata; Temminck's knot, Tringa Temminckii; Little stint,

Natural History in the English Counties,' 389

Trfnga mlnuta ; Black sandpiper, Trf nga lincolniensis ; Brown sandpiper,
Tringa fusca ; Varieties of the knot, Tringa Canutiu ; Varieties of the ruff,
Tringa pugnax; Courland snipe, Totanus fuscus; Wood, or long-legged,
sandpiper, Totanus grallatorius ; Spotted sandpiper, Totanus maculatus ;
Greenshank, Totanus Glottis; Gambet, To/awMS Calidris ; Cinereous godwit,
5'c61opax canescens; Greater snipe, ♦S'colopax major; Brown snipe, ^Scolo-
pax grisea ; Sabine's snipe, (Scolopax Sabini ; Turnstone, Str^psilas collaris ;
Alexandrine plover, Charadrius alexandrinus ; Kentish plover, Charadrius
cantiacus ; Cream-coloured plover, Cursorius IsaheWinus ; Long-legged plo-
ver, Himantopus melanopterus ; Pratincole, Glarfeola torquata; Olivaceous
gallinule, Gallinula Foljambei ; Minute gal linule, Gallinula minijta; Grey
Phalarope, Phalaropus platyrhinchus ; Red-necked grebe, Podiceps rubn-
collis ; Sclavonian grebe, Podiceps cornutus ; Spotted guillemot of Latham,
young of black guillemot ; Black-throated diver, Col jmbus arcticus ; Gull-
billed tern. Sterna anglica; Glaucous gull, Larus glaiicus; Iceland gull,
iarus islandicus ; Great black-backed gull, Xarus marinus ; Ivory gull, iya-
rus eburneus ; Winter gull, iarus hybernus ; Tarrock, Zyarus tridactylus
junior ; Black-headed gull. Brown-headed Gull, and Brown gull, different
stages of Z/arus ridibundus ; Pomarine gull, iarus Pomarinus ; Arctic gull,
J^arus parasiticus; Fulmar petrel, Procellaria glacialis; Leach's petrel, Pro-
cellaria Leachii ; Wild swan, ^'nas Cygnus ; White-fronted goose, ^'nas
albifrons ; King duck, ^'nas spectabilis ; Eider duck (female), S'nas mollis-
sima; Black duck of Hudson's Bay, yi'nas perspicillata ; Red-breasted Sho-
veler, ^'nas rubens ; Bimaculated duck, J'nas glocitans ; Velvet duck (male),
^'nas fusca ; Castaneous duck, J nas Nyroca.

We have inserted the English, as well as the systematic, names, because
specimens may fall into the hands of many who know no other. But
while we publish the desiderata of a flourishing museum, it must not be for-
gotten that notices of many institutions may, from time to time, appear in
our pages, whose possessions would be much more easily enumerated than
their wants. These should not be overlooked by the sportsman or the tra-
veller ; and we hope that wealthy societies, having for their end the spread
of science, will give of their abundance to those which, in the present dif-
fused state of knowledge, may reasonably be supposed to have neither
funds for purchase nor duplicates for exchange. — f

Lancashire. "^ ^ .

Manchester Banksian Society. — This Society, the object of which is the
acquisition of knowledge in the sciences of entomology, botany, mineralogy,
geology, &c., was established so recently as the 5th of January, in the pre-
sent year, when a code of laws for its government was adopted, and a presi-
dent, treasurer, secretary, and committee, were appointed for the transaction
of business. The intentions of the Society are to be effected by means of a
library of books, conversational discussions, reading of papers, and occa-
sional lectures, illustrated by collections of specimens in the several sciences.
The collections of specimens are to be formed by the members, each of
whom is annually to contribute at least three perfect specimens. In col-
lecting specimens, and in the method of arranging them, the following plan
is to be observed : —

Entomology. The insects to be arranged according to the most approved
system ; and, in collecting British specimens, it is expected that members
will, as often as practicable, observe their localities, habits, times of appear-
ance, &c., that memoranda may be kept of every thing interesting to the
naturalist, or useful to society. The foreign insects to be kept carefully
distinct from the British, and labelled " foreign."

390 Natural History in the English Counties.

Botany. A herbarium of the plants of Great Britain, and a distinct one
for a general collection. Specimens of seeds, gums, sections of woods, or
of any other miscellaneous articles, fossil as well as recent, which may tend
to illustrate the science. As often as possible, the habit of each specimen,
distinctly written, and the time at which it was gathered, must accompany it.

Mineralogy and Geology. The minerals and geological specimens to be
methodically arranged ; and, as often as practicable, labelled with their
names, and the situations in which they were collected.

At the first Meeting, an appropriate address, embracing the views of the
Society, and pointing out the motives which should stimulate the members
to exertion, was eloquently delivered by Mr. R. Detrosier. The interest of
the proceedings of the evening was further heightened by a beautiful dis-
play of recently cut specimens of plants.

From the address of Mr. Detrosier, we cannot, though straitened for
room, resist the pleasure of making a few extracts. After stating the objects
of the Society, viz. mineralogy, geology, botany, and entomology ; and
answering the absurd objection that such pursuits are of little practical
utility, he exclaims: —

" How striking is the difference between the man of intellect and the
mere sensualist, in the appropriation of their leisure hours ! The one in-
creases his means of happiness, and preserves his health, whilst the other
wastes his property, and hastens his death. One finds his greatest pleasure
* in holding sweet converse with the mighty dead ; ' in tracing over the
living sentiments of those mighty minds whose bodies have long since
mingled with the dust ; or in learning, with avidity and delight, the impos-
ing discoveries of modern times. The other passes over the surface of this
beauteous world, with eyes open indeed, but seeing not ; and with a mind
that seems incapable of performing any higher office than that of a mere
caterer for the body's wants. This difference of taste, which principally,
nay, I may say solely, arises from the difference in education, gives birth to
the distinguishing opposites,in conduct, of virtue and vice in various degrees.
Man, in a state of ignorance, becomes the dupe of artifice, the victim of
error, and is destroyed by the operation of those very causes which would,
under a proper discipline, become the principal administerers to his happi-
ness. His passions and his appetites, which, in a state of ignorance, are the
tempests that hurry his deluded bark to destruction, when properly directed
become the motives to good and great actions, as they are the true and only
sources of human pleasure. They are the elements of life; to destroy which
is out of our power, to attempt it criminal. It is perfectly within our
power, however, to subject them to the dictates of knowledge and expe-
rience, and thus to engage them in the cause of usefulness and virtue. They
have long since been engaged in the cause of vice. The ambition of a dog-
fighter or a pugilist differs only in its object from that which governed a
Caesar, a Cromwell, or a Bonaparte. It is precisely the same in its nature ;
and had it been directed to other and more worthy objects, might have
produced a Locke, a Milton, or a Franklin. Strong natural powers are the
sources of strong natural passions, which seek, as naturally as the eagle
seeks the sky, or rests him on the towering and lofty rock, objects calculated
to call forth the exertion of their energies, and on which they can rest with
self-satisfaction. They are the strong and restless spirits of the age, that
must be active in vice or virtue ; and that they have not been engaged in
the cause of the latter is the fault of circumstances rather than of them-
selves. Were the mental powers of the poor man properly cultivated in
youth, were his energies properly directed, and his pride engaged in the
love of that distinction which arises from the possession of knowledge, how
different would be the conduct of thousands who are lost to a sense of their
degraded situation, because they have never been elevated above it."

Having shown, by a series of'^elucidations which we regret our limits pre-

Natural History in the English Counties. 391

elude us from inserting, how replete with interest and instruction are the
sciences proposed, Mr. Detrosier proceeds : —

" Living at a time when truth is no longer shunned, except by those
who are interested in error, and when the progress of learning is no longer
dreaded, save by those who profit by the ignorance of the multitude, what-
ever useful knowledge we may gain by mutual instruction, whatever new or
interesting facts we may be so happy as to discover, the fate of a Galileo
need not deter us from communicating to each other, nor from publishing
to the world. Happily for mankind, the consideration of what is true, in
every thing which relates to the existence, prosperity, and mental culture
of man, is becoming more and more paramount to the consideration of that
which is merely expedient ; and the liberal and enlightened portion of the
rich and more fortunate class of mankind contemplate the rising talent
and increasing knowledge of the industrious artisan, not merely with com-
placency, but with pleasure. Still more happy, however, will it be for this
latter class, which constitutes by far the greater portion of the human race,
when the redeeming influence of knowledge shall be more largely felt and
more duly appreciated amongst them, and when their leisure hours shall be
consecrated to the attainment and communication of useful knowledge.
Nor can I conceive any thing more calculated to secure the realisation of
this happy state of society, than the establishment of institutions like the
present. Time has led to the acknowledgment of the gratifying fact, that
in the empire of mind wisdom constitutes the only true riches ; and expe-
rience, that best of all teachers, has confirmed the sister truth, that indus-
trious poverty may attain to its possession. And how gratifying is the
fact, to those who have little else besides their attainments of which to be
proud, that the possession of a full measure of talent is not confined to any
particular class of society ; that wisdom is not hereditary, nor yet, like the
unprincipled sycophant, found exclusively in the train of the rich and the
powerful."

Mr. Detrosier concludes the address, from which we have taken the
foregoing extracts, much injured in beauty by their displacement, as fol-
lows : —

" Brief, however, as this sketch has been, it has, I trust, been sufficient to
convince those to whom conviction was necessary, that the subjects contem-
plated by this Society, as the basis of its labours, are worthy of their atten-
tion. Of the utility of such studies no man will doubt who is conversant
with his own nature ; for so long as man is possessed of mental energies,
those energies will exert themselves on subjects either prejudicial or favour-
able to happiness; and as relaxation is necessary to the wearied frame, that
cannot be useless which combines interest and instruction with bodily ease.
* And even in the limited view which these sciences exhibit to the philoso-
phic mind, it may catch from them a glimpse of the general economy of
Nature ; and, like the mariner cast upon an unknown shore, who rejoiced
when he saw the print of a human foot upon the sand, it may be led to
cry out with rapture, A Deity dwells here !' " — 1

A large Whale, of the beak-nosed kind, was taken last week on this
coast, near Liverpool. {Bolton Chron., May 2. 1829.)

Somersetshire.

Bristol Philosophical and Literary Society. — The General Annual Meet-
ing of the Society was held on May 29. 1828, when the report of the
Council was read ; from which it appears that a variety of papers, on sub-
jects of great interest, have been read before the Society at its public meet-
ings. Among these have been essays relating to experimental and natural
philosophy, to polite literature and the fine arts, and to various topics of

392 Natural History in Scotland,

antiquarian research. Nor have the private meetings been v/ithout their
interest and advantages. The inspection of various productions of nature
and of art, of ingenious models of machinery, of specimens iUustrative of
the several branches of natural history, and of numerous objects of archaeo*
logical enquiry, have given rise to interesting conversations, and suggested
matter for entertaining and useful discussion. Nor should it be unnoticed
that these meetings have drawn together men of varied and extensive
attainments; that they have been a point of attraction and union to those
who, however congenial may have been their studies and characters, would
probably not otherwise have had either opportunity or inclination to meet
and interchange their respective views, or to communicate the results of
their private investigations and insulated pursuits.

The full attendance at these meetings must be regarded as an unequivocal
proof that much interest has been excited in their favour ; that a taste for
scientific and literary pursuits is rapidly spreading among the inhabitants of
this great city and its vicinity ; and that the love of trifling amusements is
giving way to a relish for pleasures of a more refined and elevated character.
To the still wider prevalence of these indications of intellectual improve-
ment, the Council look forward with increasing satisfaction. Nor can they
contemplate the extent of what has been already effected, without a con-
fident anticipation of the period when the leisure of the superior classes
will be devoted yet more generally to the cultivation of rational and intel-
lectual pursuits, and when such relaxation as is hurtful, or at least unprofit-
able, to the mind will be exchanged for that which will tend to give it health
and vigour.

On taking a retrospect of the transactions of this Society from its estab-
lishment, and on considering the list of its distinguished honorary members
and associates, and its numerous friends and supporters, from whose inge-
nious and learned communications it has derived so much credit and advan-
tage, the Council cannot but entertain a pleasing confidence, that its
resources will furnish such an unfailing supply of scientific and literary
contributions, as will enable it to persevere in its dignified and honourable
career, (ikfa^ 29. 1828.) — t

Art. VII. Natural History in Scotland, - ';

Birds on the Sea Coast of Gomrie, in Aberdeenshire. 'S\Ti The sea coast
along the parish of Gomrie, in Aberdeenshire, is one of the boldest and most
interesting to be found in the kingdom ; and to the mineralogist, in particu-
lar, it affords examples of the leading truths of his science in the most diver-
sified manner, and on the most gigantic scale. The rocks, which at intervals
arise in rugged majesty along the shore, are of great height, and of a most
formidable appearance, and stand perpendicularly from the ocean as striking
monuments of those tremendous convulsions which at different times have
agitated the world which forms our present abode. Nor is their interest
confined merely to the student of mineralogy ; for to the ornithologist, like-
wise, they are attractive in no ordinary degree. They are annually resorted
to by immense numbers of those birds which are properly denominated sea~
,fowl; and it is remarkable that the various tribes of which the general body
is composed are most punctual with regard to the particular period at which
they respectively and yearly return from the cold regions of the north, for
the important and pleasing purposes of incubation. The varieties which
appear in greatest numbers are the Kittiwake (Z/arus tridactylus Temminck^
JLarus Rissa Linnaeus, provincially Kitti/); the Razor-bill Auk (Aica

' Nafilral History in Scotlaml. 393

Torda Linnaeus, provincially Coultcr\ the Guillemot' (Cf Via Troille La-
tham and Temminck, provincially Queet), and, lastly, the Puffin (A'Ica
arctica Linncsus, Fratercula arctica Flemings provincially Tammy norie). *
To a stranger who visits, for the first time, the scene of their vernal abode,
the spectacle presented is striking and interesting in no ordinary degree. On
the various portions of the immense rocks, which rise in sublime magnifi-
cence before him, sit thousands and tens of thousands of the birds to which
;\v^e are now directing our attention. And it is curious to observe the regu-
larity with which the different species attach themselves to the places most
■suited to their various wants and capacities. The Kittiwakes and Guillemots
inhabit the firmest and most precipitous of the rocks, on the ledges of which
they form their nests. These ledges, when viewed from below, appear to
the spectator as scarcely presenting an inch's breadth of surface, and yet the
birds contrive to form their nests, which, in the case of the kittiwake, is
done with grass, and to hatch their young in this seemingly impracticable
situation ; although it sometimes indeed happens, that, on being suddenly
startled, their eggs tumble down into the sea. Although associated together,
however, no actual intermixture takes place between the two species ; for
they have each their own particular ledges on which they sit, drawn up like
regiments of soldiers, in the most imperturbable manner, and if startled, by
a more than ordinary alarm, from their nests, they nevertheless return, after
a single evolution in the air, to the important duties from which they had
been with difficulty aroused. The two species are easily distinguishable.
The kittiwake is at once conspicuous by its snow-white head and breast, its
yellowish bill, and its pearly blue mantle ; while the guillemot is recog-
nised by its upright figure, the legs being placed very far back, as is the case
with most sea fowl, and by the great portion of brownish sleek black with
which its plumage is diversified. The peculiar nature, indeed, of the con-
figuration of this latter bird, by which, when sitting or attempting to walk,
its whole leg appears as if it were its foot, has given rise to the popular but
erroneous idea that it hatches its eggs by means of covering it with the part
of its body in question. On a promontory immediately adjoining, and com-
posed of softer materials, are assembled the Puffins, or, in the language of
this part of the country, the Tammy nories, who, laying their eggs in holes
burrowed in the earth, cannot, of course, take up their abode on the hard
ledges occupied by the birds whose position we have already described. In
the same manner the Razor-bills, although occasionally associating with the
guillemot, occupy, in general, a separate and somewhat soft and perforated
part of those enormous precipices, which, in the busy season of spring, teem
with life in all directions. These birds (the razor-bills) very much resemble
the guillemots in appearance, especially when seen at a distance on wing.
They may, however, on a nearer approach, be distinguished from the latter
by the broad form of their bills, and by the superior length of their wings,
which are, moreover, marked by a conspicuous streak of white along their
outward extremity.

Some of this enormous body of sea fowl (probably males) are constantly in
motion, either gracefully and lightly swimming about in detached groups on
the sea, or, by their circular evolutions in the air, indicating to the yet dis-
tant visitor the particular rock where he may hope to encounter them in
congregated thousands. And on a fine day, and under the mild influence of
a vernal and unclouded sun, the scene is particularly beautiful. The ocean
lies tranquil, and stretched out before the spectator like an immense sheet
of glass, smiling in its soft and azure beauty, while over its surface the kitti-
wake, the guillemot, the razor-bill, and the puffin, conspicuous by the bril-

* The provincial names here given are those used by the inhabitants of
the coast in question.

Vol. II. — No. 9. dd

394 Natural History in Ireland.

liant orange and scarlet of its bill and legs, are beheld wheeling with rapid
wing in endless and varying directions. On firing a gun, the effect is even
startling. The air is immediately darkened with the multitudes which are
aroused by the report ; the ear is stunned by the varied and discordant
sounds which arise ; the piercing note of the kittiwake (from which its name
has been derived) ; the shrill cry of the tammy norie j and the hoarse burst
of the guillemot, resembhng, as it were, the laugh of some demon, in
mockery of the intrusion of man amid these majestic scenes of nature ;
all these combined, and mingled occasionally with the harsh scream of the
cormorant, are heard high above the roar of the ocean which breaks at the
foot of these tremendous and gigantic precipices.

It is a remark which cannot be too frequently nor forcibly repeated, that,
in natural history especially, it is of the utmost importance to judge from
actual observation and experience, and not implicitly to rely on the descrip-
tions and speculations of writers who are often obliged to describe produc-
tions of nature which they have never had an opportunity of beholding, and
with regard to which they have not unfrequently relied on information at
best but vague and unsatisfactory. This is particularly the case with Buffon.
There is no author more likely, from the insidious and specious graces of his
eloquence, to captivate and influence the youthful mind ; and yet, in those
branches of natural history to which my own observation extends, I have
often, with regard to a correct statement of facts, found him egregiously
deficient. And the truth of this remark I am in no case able to substantiate
more fully, than with respect to the varieties of sea fowl at present under
consideration. I find from his writings, then, that he represents the razor-
bill auk as utterly incapable of flight, and the puffin as enabled with the ut-
most difficulty to transport itself from one place to another, by razing, as it
were, with its almost useless wings, the surface of the sea ; and, in like man-
ner, the guillemot is described as being scarcely able to fly above the surface
of the sea, and, in order to reach its nest, as being obliged to flutter, or ra-
ther to leap, from cliff to cliff, resting a moment at each throw. These
errors I do not find corrected, except in the case 'of the puffin, by
Bewick, and other subsequent and popular naturalists, who must, I should
think, have known better, and who ought to have been at pains to rectify
the blunders of an author so captivating and universally read as Buffon.
Now, I have myself been repeatedly a witness, at one of their greatest breed-
ing stations, of the powers of flight possessed by those birds who have thus
been confidently represented as being incapable of flight at all. The fact is,
that, while on the wing, they fly with singular rapidity and vigour, and often
at a very considerable elevation ; nor have I been able to discover any of
that difficulty in reaching their nests, which, in the case of the guillemot, is
described as being so painfully great.

With regard, likewise, to the eggs of these birds, it appears to me that
naturalists have fallen into mistakes. Donovan, for example, in his fourth,
tnd to all appearance his last, number [No. V. has lately appeared.] of the
f^ggs of British Birds, has figured, for the egg of the razor-bill auk, what
1 know from ocular inspection is not the egg of that bird ; and what,
from all accounts, I have reason to think (although I have never seen a
specimen) is the egg of the great northern auk, the A'lca impennis or
gairfowl, I am. Sir, &c. — A. C, R. June 5. 1829.

Art, VIII. Natural History in Ireland.

Rare Birds Mlled in different Parts of Ireland. — Golden Eagle (Falco
Clirysaetos). A very fine specimen was shot in the County Wexford, Dec.
J 828. It measured upwards of 8 ft. across the wings. — Peregrine Falcon

Hints for hnprovemenU,^ 395:

{Falco peregrJnus). Breeds on the Gobbin Rocks, in Island Magee, County
Antrim. — * Cinereous Shrike (Lanius excubitor). Shot near Belfast in
Nov. 1826, after a severe snow storm. It is the first specimen, I believe,
noticed in the northern part of our island. — *Jay (Corvus glandarius).
Thoiigh so common in England, it is but seldom met with in Ireland, and
then only in the southern counties. — Waxen Chatterer (yi''mpelis garrulus).
A beautiful male was shot in the neighbourhood of Dublin, in January 1829.
^ Hoopoe (C/^pupa £^pops). One specimen was shot in the County Dub-
lin, and another in the County Tipperary, in 1828. — Crossbill (Loxia cur-
virostra). A few birds of this species were shot in the County Dublin in
Dec. 1828. — * Grosbeak (Loxia C'occothraustes). Several were shot near
Dublin in Nov. 1828. — Siskin (i^ringilla spinus). Frequently shot in the
County Wicklow. — Great Plover (Charadrius (Edicnemus). One specimen
was shot on the sea shore near Dublin, on 27th January 1829. It seemed
to have undergone a long journey, and was very much emaciated. — Water
Crake (Rallus Porzdna). Has been shot once or twice near Belfast, and
also in the County Wicklow. — Red Godwit (/S'colopax lapponica). I ob-
served three birds of this species in Belfast Lough, on June 12. 1828, but
they were so shy as not to be approached within gunshot. — * Greenshank
(iS'colopax Glottis). Two or three specimens are annually shot in Septem-
ber, near Belfast. — * Common Sandpiper (Tringa hypoleucos). Breeds
near Belfast. — * Spotted Sandpiper (Tringa macularia). One specimen
was shot near Belfast in July 1828, and another in September. — * Grey
Phalarope (Tringa lobata). Two specimens of this rare bird were shot near
Dublin in the spring of 1828. — * Arctic Tern (Sterna arctica). Shot on one
of the Copeland Islands, at the entrance to Belfast harbour, in July 1828. —
* Roseate Tern (Sterna Dougalii Montagu). Shot on the same island.
Numbers of eggs of (it is supposed) the two foregoing species of tern were
found on the rocks. The principal food of these birds was herring fry
The common tern was likewise very numerous on the island. — Stormy
Petrel (Procellaria pelagica). This specimen was found the day after a se-
vere storm, seven miles inland from Belfast, in 1827. — Wild Swan (^'nas
Cygnus ferus). Shot near Dublin in the winter of 1828-9. — Golden Oriole
(Oriolus Galbula). A specimen of this bird was seen, some winters ago, a
few miles from Belfast"; and another specimen was shot since. —Common
Bee-eater (iWerops Apiaster). One specimen was killed in the County
Wicklow a few years ago. — RufF (Tringa pugnax). A female of this bird
(a reeve) was killed in 1827 near Belfast. — * Northern Diver (Colymbus
glacialis). Three or four specimens of this bird were shot in Dec. 1828,
near Dublin. I procured two, both young birds, but of different ages ; on
one of them the white spots on the back were becoming distinct ; the other
entirely wanted them. It is occasionally shot in Belfast harbour, but only
in severe winters. — J. D. M, Belfast, July 18. 1829.

A RT. IX. Hints for Improvements •

A Natural Histoty Society, (p. 286.) — Such would bring together many,
who, like myself, are ardent admirers of nature, but who want to acquire
some /?mc^ka/ knowledge of those scientific arrangements which tend to pro-
mote clear views of the various departments. The works, too, which are pub-
lished, though not dear as respects their merit, are yet, in many instances,
too expensive for individuals like myself, but who could afford a guinea or
two for such an object as the one proposed. Though one of the earliest
promoters and supporters of two or three institutions now flourishing, my

*The birds marked with a star are at present in my possession. — ./. D. M,

D D 2

396 Retrospective Criticism,'

name is too humble to add any weight to the recommendations of K. or to'
my own ; but should any thing of the kind be seriously undertaken, the
little time and talent I have, if acceptable, will be cheerfully devoted to its
promotion. — J. R. St. John Street Road, July 3. 1829.

Chinese Ornithological Literature. — In the public library at Petersburgh
there is a Chinese work on ornithology, most beautifully drawn and painted.
{Jones's Travels.) Now the Chinese are well known to excel in drawing
and painting subjects of natural history, and it would be well worthy of the
greatest exertions to endeavour to obtain permission to copy this work. —
Rmticus in Urbe.

Art. X. Retrospective Criticism,

Ascent of the Aerial Spider. — Sir, Your Magazine for July last (p. 299.), I
perceive, contains a second letter from Mr. Murray on the "ascent of the
aerial spider." Altthough I have distinctly announced that the principle
upon which I explain the ascent of the spiders which produce gossamer has
long been familiar to men of science ; that I make no pretensions whatever
to the discovery of any new principle ; but that my claim to originality is
founded solely on the application of one already known, to the solution of
this interesting problem in natural history; still Mr. Murray reiterates his
charge of want of novelty j remarking, that I apply the principle to the
ascent of the spiders, exactly as M. Gay Lussac applied it to the soap bubble.
The question to be decided is, whether the application which I have made of
this principle had been made previously by M. Gay Lussac, or any other
individual. I believe that it had not. My claim to originality, therefore,
holds good, and I am not at all induced to forego it. Let Mr. Murray submit
his electrical hypothesis to the same test, and see what will become of its
novelty. His principle is not new ; and the fact, that excited bodies, in dif-
ferent electrical states, mutually attract each other, is not new. What then
is left for Mr. Murray, but the application of the principle to the ascent of
the spider? but, according to his mode of reasoning, he cannot avail himself
of this circumstance. Controvertists should be careful not to entangle
themselves in the snares which they spread for their antagonists.

In alluding to my comments on the experiment made with tiie spider in his
library, Mr. Murray proceeds thus : — " Because I did not mention the tem-
perature within and without, ergo I had not taken it, and had not ascertained
the direction of the current. Now, Mr. Blackwall may have, if he presses
for it, all the benefit that may arise from his illogical conclusion." What !
does Mr. Murray, who has evinced so much anxiety to impress his readers
with the idea, that h6 has " not ventured beyond the pale of sound and sober
reasoning in the true spirit of inductive science," unhesitatingly admit, that,
in giving publicity to this experiment through the medium of the press, he
has designedly withheld particulars calculated to exercise an important in-
fluence on the result ? Perhaps Mr. Murray is desirous that a tacit assent
should be given to the conclusion at which he has arrived, independently of
any examination of the premises from which it is deduced. If so, I can easily
conceive, that he may have weighty reasons for giving an imperfect detail of
circumstances calculated only to mislead. In what manner the promulga-
tion of partial evidence, and the intentional withholding of facts essential to
a correct estimate of his experiment, are to promote the cause of truth, the
principal object which Mr. Murray professes to have in view, I leave for him
to determine; and, if I mistake not, it will require all his skill in logic to
extricate him from the dilemma in which he has so rashly involved himself.

The doctrine of the composition of forces, which I have introduced to
explain the various oblique directions in which spiders are conveyed through

Itctrospcctlve Critichm. 397

the atmosphere, Mr. Murray seems to think " sadly complicated and con-
fused;" yet in his former letter (Vol.1, p. 321.) he allows that spiders,
when afloat, obey the direction of the breeze, and that they frequently move
in lines inclined at various angles to the plane of the horizon. Now, sup-
posing that they are raised into the atmosphere by the agency of electricity,
as Mr. Murray conjectures, and are also liable to have their motions in-
fluenced by currents of air, which he does not attempt to deny, complicated
and confused as the doctrine may appear to him, I do maintain, that, on his
own showing, spiders, so circumstanced, are subject to the laws of compound
forces. How, indeed, can he account for the oblique directions in which he
has seen them sail through the atmosphere, except on the principle which I
have pointed out ? Let him reject that, and his electrical hypothesis will
avail him little.

Mr. Murray's felicitous manner of stating his experiments is again illus-
trated in the following example : — " Last autumn," he writes, " I let go an
aeronautic spider, together with some thistle downy simultaneously from the
same spot in the open air. They moved in exactly contrary directions ! I must
leave the phenomenon with Mr. Blackwall, to be adjusted by the laws of
compound forces." It may be very convenient for Mr. Murray to leave to
the explanation of others, those phenomena of which his own hypothesis
affords no satisfactory solution ; but then the least he can do is to supply the
requisite data. Did the objects submitted to this experiment move in the
same vertical line, or in horizontal or oblique directions ? On these points
Mr. Murray gives no information, and yet it is essential that they should be
understood, before an explanation can even be attempted, as several widely
different cases immediately present themselves to the mind of the investi-
gator. I beg to inform Mr. Murray, however, that I am not in the habit of
essaying the exposition of imperfectly described phenomena, the accuracy of
which I have no means of verifying. Nothing caa be more amusing than the
satisfaction with which Mr. Murray affects to sneer at ray application of the
laws of compound forces, since it will be perceived, from the preceding
paragraph, that, in so doing, he is directing his sarcasms against the employ-
ment of a principle, the influence of which he himself has unwittingly ad-
mitted.

It is somewhat remarkable, that Mr. Murray should let my " asserted
fiacts," as he thinks proper to term them, remain so long without investi-
gation ; especially as they must, if established, totally subvert his electrical
hypothesis. Such an omission is the more extraordinary, as there can be no
obstacle to the repetition of my experiments, which are circumstantially de-
tailed, and may be conducted without difficulty. I still continue to multiply
them on all occasions, and uniformly with the same success. I am con-
fident therefore in affirming, that, in motionless air, spiders have not the
power of darting their threads even through the space of half an inch. Let
not Mr. Murray complain that my last letter leaves this question exactly as
it was ; while the above decisive fact remains unshaken, it would be per-
fectly useless to embarrass him with any new matter.

However reluctant Mr. Murray may be to satisfy himself of the accuracy
of the facts which I have advanced, I can assure him^ that no such feeling
has existed, on my part, with regard to the examination of his experiments,
whenever this has been practicable. I have carefully repeated several of
them, and am compelled to say that the results at which I have arrived
differ widely from those obtained by him. In his Experimental Researches,
p. 125., Mr. Murray asserts that the ascent and movement of the aeronautic
spider in the atmosphere are essential to its very existence ; and again, p. 128.,
he observes that he has invariably found that it is impatient of confinement,
« and will die, whether imprisoned in a chip box or glass tube (showing that
light does not affect the question), sometimes in twenty hours, or at most in
iivo or three days'' In order to try the soundness of these opinions by the

D D 3

S98 lletrospedive Criticim,

test of experiment, on the 14th of December, 1828, 1 captured eighteen
spiders of this species, twelve of which were enclosed in glass phials closely
corked -, and the other six were put on an upright twig whose base was im-
mersed in water ; which twig was placed within an inch of the perpendicular
side of the vessel containing the liquid. Both the phials and the vessel
containing the twig were then carefully locked up in a book-case, where
they remained till the 4th of January, 1829. During this period, five only,
of the twelve spiders put into the phials, died ; the remaining seven,"with the
six placed on the twig, which were quite unable to effect their escape, not
only survived, but retained their wonted vigour and activity. They were
then all set at liberty but one, which accidentally remained on the twig till
the 23d of February, when it also was suffered to escape. So much for the
report of the speedy dissolution of these spiders in a state of confinement,
and for the assertion founded upon it, that their ascent in the atmosphere
is essential to their existence. Perhaps, the result of this experiment might
be influenced, in some degree, by the season of the year, as I readily admit
that spiders enclosed in glass phials do not always survive so long as those
did in the instance given, though the average term of their existence in cap-
tivity greatly exceeds the limits assigned to it by Mr. Murray ; and I have
repeatedly kept spiders on the twig alluded to above, for three weeks and a
month, without any very sensible change being produced either in their
ph3'sical powers or their external appearance.

In treating upon the electrical character of the lines of this species of
spider, Mr. Murray observes {Experimental Researches^ p. 1 36.), that " when
a stick of excited sealing-wax is brought near the thread of suspension, it is
evidently repelled ; consequently the electricity of the thread is of a negative
character ; " and that " an excited glass tube brought near seemed to attract
the thread, and with it the aeronautic spider." Here, again, my experience
is opposed to that of Mr. Murray. Like other light substances, I find that
the lines and spiders are attracted both by excited sealing-ivax and glass
tubes ; and that when uninfluenced by the contact, or vicinity of excited
bodies, they appear to be neutral with regard to electricity, or rather, not to
he in a state of excitation themselves, being affected neither by the ap-
proximation of the Jinger, nor of metallic conductors. That an electrical
atmosphere will impart electricity to the lines of spiders floating in it, is
highly probable, but then it is plain that the ascent of the spiders cannot be
occasioned by this circumstance.

As it is almost impossible that observations and experiments on the
ascent of spiders in the open air should be repeated under circumstances pre-
cisely similar to those under which they were originally made. Instead of
recapitulating and enforcing my former statements relative to this fact, I
beg to refer Mr. Murray to a work of great interest, which I have recently
perused for the first time ; I allude to the Tableaux de la Nature of M.
de Humboldt, the most scientific traveller of the present day, where he will
find (tome ii. p. 4. & 59 — G2.), that not only insects of various kinds, but
inanimate objects also, are sometimes carried to an astonishing elevation in
the atmosphere by the mechanical action of ascending currents of rarefied
air.

There are several other points of minor importance respecting which I
entirely dissent in opinion from Mr. Murray, but I have not leisure to enter
into an exposition of them at present; I trust, however, that I have suf-
ficiently elucidated some of those particulars which it would be most ad-
visable for him to correct in the intended new edition of his Experimental
Researches. On them I recommend him to bestow a careful and impartial
consideration without delay, and my sincere wish is, that he may derive all
the advantage from them which they are so eminently calculated to afford
him. I am, Sir, &c. — John Blackwall. Crumpsall Hall, July 18. 1829.

Influence of Fresh Water on Marine Animals. — It may be remarked that
Pr. Drummond's experiments on the Nereis caM'idea, as recorded in your

Retrospective Criticism. 399

Magazine (p.l21. et seq.), do not conclusively show that that animal will not
live in fresh water ; for there are many marine animals that die on being
immersed in fresh water, which may be made to live in it, if the sea water,
which is their natural element, be gradually diluted with fresh water, until
the whole has, in fact, become fresh. Dr. Drummond will perform a useful
service to this branch of zoological enquiry, by subjecting the NereiV caerulea
to experiments of this description.

With respect to the cause of the deleterious effect of freshwater upon this
animal, it is probably referable to the carbonic acid gas, which exists in fresh
water in a much greater proportion than in sea water, and is destructive of
the life of all animals. The Nereides, in common with all the other Annel-
lida, or red-blooded worms, respire the air contained in the water in which
they live, b}' means of a respiratory apparatus, intermediate in its nature
between the gills of fishes, and the spiracula and tracheae, or breathing
pores and air vessels, of insects. The cavities in which their blood is ex-
posed to. the influence of the air admit the water and air by openings in the
sides of the animal. Hence, when fresh water, containing carbonic acid gas,
is sprinkled upon them, or when they are immersed in it, the gas excites a
spasmodic action by its deleterious effect on the animal economy, when
introduced, as in this case it probably is, into the circulation. If Dr. Drum-
mond, as is probable, used spring water, or rain water, which usually con-
tain more carbonic acid gas than river-water, this effect would the more
readily follow. The circumstance that the mouth extremity of the Nerei*
caeriilea was more sensible to the touch of the poison than any other part,
as mentioned in p. 125., is confirmatory of the foregoing explanation; for
there is a more direct and speedy communication with the air cells at the
anterior part of the animal. It would be interesting if Dr. Drummond
would compare the effect, on the animals, of water recently boiled for a con-
siderable time, so as to expel the gaseous matter it contains, and also that
of carbonic acid gas itselt^ with those of ordinary fresh water and atmo-
spheric air.

Dr. Drummond's remarks on the deleterious effects of fresh water on the
marine plants he mentions, as indicative of the impossibility of their exist-
ence in lakes and rivers, or other collections of fresh water, are open to the
same objection as applies to his inference respecting the Nereis caerulea.
Whether the carbonic acid in fresh water is also the cause of the alteration
they undergo when placed in it, it would be unsafe to surmise, without
direct experiment. — E. W. B. May 7. 1829.

The Water Shrew. — Sir, Until I read your last Number, I was not aware
that the Water Shrew (*S'drex fodiens) had been supposed to have been
lost, or was thought an uncommon animal in England. I have frequently
met with them ; and in a neglected fish-pond at Risby, a few miles from
this, they are very commonly to be seen diving from old stumps, which
rise a little above the surface, and returning again, and then reimmersing
themselves so quickly as almost to make one doubtful of the cause of their
return to the stump ; but having repeatedly noticed them whilst I was
angling, I observed a quick nibbling motion of the jaws for the few moments
they were out of the water, I am therefore satisfied that those momentary
returns were to masticate the food procured by diving. The one seen by
Mr. Dovaston seems to have been remarkably shy ; those at Risby, however,
are very bold little animals. On the 27th of June last, one continued its
search for food within a yard of me for about ten minutes, during which
it several times dived and returned five times in a minute, and then, whilst
resting a few moments longer than usual, turned and looked full at me ; then
sat nearly upright, placing one foot behind the ear, where it smoothed the
fur as cats do, and then commenced diving again. I endeavoured to dis-
cover what was the food it found, but it was so minute, I was unable to do
so. Unlike Mr. Dovaston's specimens, those at Risby feed in the middle of

D D 4

400 Hetrospedive Criticism.

the day as well as early and late, and that constantly. As the ponds I have
generally seen them in are, however, but little frequented, that may have
rendered them more bold than usual there. — Thomas Thompsoii. Hull,
July^O. 1829.

Sturnus Cmclrn. — In Vol. II. p. 301., Mr. Thos. Thompson of Hull com-
plains that of the specific name he can " make nothing ;'^ and thinks it ought
to be written clnc^us : fancifully, this may do, and I like his wit well. Cfnclus,
however, is undoubtedly right, and derived from the Greek for a thrush,
KixM ; which word, Mr. Editor, if you can hit in English type, you shall
" be clapped on the shoulder," (as honest Benedick says) " and called
Adam " clever fellow ! — It may be pronounced hink-le, and is spelt in La-
tin with a c, because k is one of the letters not used by the Romans. By
many ornithologists it was, and is, incorporated with the TVardi, and the
present specific is probably retained for no other reason. Cfnclus was,
therefore, an " excellent good word, till it became ill-sorted." That the
bird dives there is no doubt, and for which we have the authority of Lin-
ngeus, who expresses his wonder thereat, being digit-footed. " Hyeme (ha-
bitat) ad cataractas, fontesque non congelandos,;^ubi inirb descendit per
rapidos voragines, voratura oniscos aquaticos insectaque alia ; emergitque
non palmipes,^'* With regard to this gentleman's (Mr. Thompson's) unbe-
lief of its lualking at the bottom of water, I can with confidence inform him,
that my excellent friend, Mr. Joseph Warren, now of Bryn-Morda, once
lived in a house directly overlooking that bright and rapid little river, and tells
me, that he has occasionally, but rarely, seen it do so, but in a very awkward,
tumbling, and shuffling wriggle. Its song is very singular and infrequent,
which I have heard (as 1 find by my notes) late in October. I have seen
this bird dart through the broad, powerful, and heavy waterfall of a mill-
dam, on the property of my just-named friend, which he, in consequence,
caused for a few minutes to be stopped, and behind it we found the nest,
in shape and materials very like that of the common wren ; being made of
dry leaves, bents, and moss : I say dry, for the leaves were not only dead of
the last year, but so placed that the spray of the vast over-shoot could
scarcely wet them. This bird is very common about the rapid rivers of Wales,
and on our Border here ; and I have seen it very frequent in Cumberland
and Scotland, as far north as the Falls of Foyers, near Inverness. It has
been generised with the ilfotacillae ; and indeed Linnaeus says it can hardly
be distinguished from them in the beak and nostrils. Long before I knew
this, it had often struck me, that this bird very closely resembles the merry
Troglodite in habits and motions; and facetiously to my friends 1 have
called it the Brook-wren ; and in Westmoreland (where their brilliant ra-
pids are called Becks), the Beck-wren. Pardon the pun (for I hate pjiny
wit), as it well suits the " becks and nods " of this neat, nimble, and lively
bird, who, 'like^ his more illustrious companion, the king-fisher, and their
happy admirer, myself, loves the streams and glades inglorious. — John F.
AT. Dovaston, Westfelton, near Shrewsbur?/, July 21, 1829.

Kniirrhinum Cymhalaria in Wales. — Sir, T. F. (Vol. I. p. 378.) found the
j^ntirrhinum Cymbalaria, which he calls Toadflax (A. Linaria), on a rock
near Barmouth, North Wales. That neither this gentleman nor others be
thereby misled in imagining it a native, I here declare that several years ago,
in one of my numerous tours through that and other mountainous regions, I
carried a box of the seeds of this beautiful, graceful, and tenacious plant, which
I distribute i in appropriate places, on rocks, ruins, churches, castles, and
bridges, where I have since beheld it thriving in tresses and festoons to my
fullest satisfaction. I particularly remember sowing it on the rock he men-

* " In the winter it frequents waterfalls and wells that freeze not, where
it wonderfully plunges through rapid whirlpools, to feed on water-oMWci,
and other insects ; and, though not web^ooled, reascemU.'*

Queries a}id Jhiswers. 401

tions. Though this pretty brilliant plant is usually looked on as a native, .
it is said the seeds were originally brought in some marble sculptures from
Italy to Oxford. I can bear cordial testimony to its fringing and mantling,
with its elegant drapery, the walls of colleges and gardens in that splendid
university. And every one knows how likely the plant is to be desired and
removed, and when sown, how readily spreading, and impossible of eradi-
cation. It may inform some of your readers (and I am one who highly
approve your giving derivations, though I could wish the Greek appeared
in its own type, from the impossibility of otherwise expressing their variety
of vowels), 1 say, it may amuse your readers to know that Antirrhinum
(snapdragon), is compounded of a Greek preposition and noun, signifying
lip to lip. Cymbalaris is an ancient epithet for a plant, and is (I presume, —
for I could show another, denoting the gadding nature of the plant, only
" Priscian would be a little scratched") derived from the Greek for a small
boat. In this poikilonomizing (various-naming) age (or rage), some bota-
nists retain Linaria as a genus, distinguishing it by the greater length of its
spurs. A verse in Juvenal's Satires (iv. 45.) has both the words together,
the boat and the Jlax ; " cymhcB Unique magister ; " speaking of a fisherman
and his apparatus. — John F. M. JDovaston. Westfelton, near Shrewsbury j
July 21. 1829.

Erratum. — Page 259. lines 13 to 16./or" Mr. William Phillips, one," &c.
7'ead " Mr. William Phillips, one of the authors of Geological Outlines of
England and Wales, and author of an Elementary Introduction to Minei^alogy
and of various other works, and Dr. Wollaston who has left lOOO/. to the
Society," &c.

Art. XI. Queries and Answers,

Flo'RA. VirgiUhna, and other Matters. — Can you not give us a complete
Flora Virgiliana (Vol. I. p. 484.), by the aid of Martyn's Georgics, and other
works ? I should like to see all the weeds included,) and verified with their
Linnean names, when I shall recur with a new pleasure to my old
acquaintance : —

" Lappaeque tribulique ; interque nitentia culta
Infelix lolium et steriles dominantur avenae.

et amaris intuba fibris." {Georg.\.\55. ^20.)

In the mean time,'until difficulties be cleared away, let us rejoice in the

" biferique rosaria Paesti :

Et virides apio ripae, tortusque per herbam

cucumis ; nee sera comantem

Narcissum, aut flexi . . . vimen acanthi,

Pallentesque hederas, et amantes littora myrtos." (Georg. iv. 119.)

I should delight to know more about even " graveolentia centaurea," but
especially as to the

" flos in pratis, cui nomen aynello

Fec^re agricolae," {Georg. iv. 270.)

which puzzles me dreadfully, as I contemplate every species of the genus
A'ster in a nursery garden which I frequent. As to Dictamnus (jE?wid.
xii. 412.), I am sufficiently contented when I pore over a plant of " Orfga-
num JDictamnus" in flower, and let it be described as

" Dictamnum genitrix Cretaea carpit ab Ida,

Puberibus caulem foliis et flore comantem

Purpureo : '* ^

402 Queries and Answers.

as for the •*

" non ilia feris incognita capris
Gramina, cum tergo volucres haes^re sagittae,"

I let that pass, as I was taught it at school, requiring no evidence to prove
its truth, but admitting that a mass of classical authority is in favour of it,
and of the skill in simples manifested by animals in general. I should greatly
delight in idling away some days in a good library, and sending you a real
paper on this subject, instead of a hurried scrawl, despatched even uncor-
rected. Can you tell your readers what is the Linnean name for a fish
(caught on the coast of North Carolina, I believe) called by the natives
" Devil Stingai-ree. It has a long tail like a coach whip, and a barbed bone
about 4 in. long, which it strikes into an opponent. — W. April 24. 1829.

Various Questions. — Where can I procure lives or memoirs of the fol-
lowing naturalists, Buffon, Jussieu, Ray, Pennant, and Azara? Is there, any
translation oi Azara* s Memoirs in English, and if so, is it from the French or
original Spanish edition ? Where can I procure plates and descriptions of
the blindworm, and which is the best treatise on the Simm tribe ? The
General Gazetteer, speaking of Devonshire, mentions that " In the western
parts there is a bird so very small, that it is reputed to be a humming-bird,
and, like that bird, builds its nest on the extreme branches of trees." Pray,
Sir, can you, or any of your correspondents, inform me what bird is here
meant? — When, Sir, do you intend to notice the menageries of the King's
Mews and the Tower ? Might you not also give some account of the tra-
velling collections, for the instruction of your country readers ? I am, Sir,
&c. — Perceval Hunter. June 4. 1829.

Effects of Salt Water on some ]\Iarine Animals^ and Scientijic Descriptions
of these Animals. — Sir, In your useful and entertaining Journal (p. 121.),
there is an excellent paper by Dr. Drummond, on the effects produced by
fresh water on some marine animals and plants. The facts which he has
adduced are very curious, and having witnessed the same, or very similar
ones, I have no doubt whatever of their accuracy. On dropping, for exam-
ple, the Polynoe imbricata {ZooL Journ.y iii. 3J2.) into a glass of fresh
water, it instantaneously casts off its scales, and drops dead to the bottom.
The same is the case with the Lycori;? margaritacea of Dr. Leach. These
are worms, and belong to the class Annelides of modern zoologists ; but
fresh water is no less poisonous to some molluscous animals. The Tritonws
pinnatifida and the Eolida papillosa are immediately killed by it, and lose
their branchial processes.

My object in addressing you at present, however, is not to corroborate
Dr. Drummond's facts, but to solicit from him a scientific description of
two of the animals on which his experiments were made. The first is the
Aphrodita squamata. The descriptions of this given by British authors are
quite insufficient to enable any one to tell what they intend, and it would
be doing a good service to our Fauna to have it correctly ascertained. Is
it the Polynoe squamata of Lamarck, or is it not rather the P. imbricata
above mentioned ? What is the Nereis cajriilea of Linnaeus, the second
animal experimented on ? The descriptions of Linnaeus and of Pennant,
and the figure of the latter, are good for nothing ; and I very much sus-
pect that Pennant intended to figure what is now called hycons margari-
tacea, and of which Dr. Leach is presumed to be the discoverer. Dr. Drum-
mond will, I trust, excuse me for soliciting an answer to these queries. —
G.J. May 14. 1829.

Active Molecules, — About Christmas last I placed, for preservation, in a
small phial (filled with an equal mixture of hollands and water), a dead
fleshy grub of the Musk Beetle (Cerambyx moschatus Lin.) found on wil-
lows. The animal had experienced some injury, part of the skin near the

Queries and Ansisoers* 403

head being broken. On examining the phial, in the course of two months
afterwards, I perceived a quantity of very fine white sediment at the bottom
of the phial, and partly extending up its sides, which I immediately supposed
was a portion of the matter forming the body of the grub, which had escaped
through the wound on the neck, as there was nothing else in the bottle
from which it could have been produced. For the purpose of investigating
its nature, I emptied the whole contents of the phial into a shallow white
saucer, which enabled me to perceive by the assistance of a high-powered
glass, that these minute portions of matter were of irregular forms, and
without individual life. Although, to my great surprise, they appeared to
be endowed as a mass, or rather as numerous small masses, with very great
motion, moving about in various directions or currents, now slowly, now
briskly, advancing, retreating, coming into contact with each other, then
gradually becoming motionless, then again (without any additional motion
having been given to the saucer), coming into active life, as it were, as be-
fore, and resembling, individually, to the naked eye, the minute animalcules
found in putrid water, which are just perceivable without the assistance of
lenses. These motions^ I observed for at least a quarter of an hour, but
as \ felt convinced that they in some manner or other were the effect of
some motions in the substance of the fluid, and not of the particles of sedi-
ment, I did not think it necessary to continue my observations.

Might not the motion have been produced in the same manner as that
which we perceive when we mix spirits with water ? and may not many of
the motions heretofore observed have originated from a similar cause ? and
has the result been the same when pure rectified water has been employed,
as when pure spirit ? I am, Sir, &c. — J. O. Westwoodj F.L.S, S^c. Cliel-^
sea, June, 1829.

The Cause of Goitre. — Sir, I should be glad to be informed, through the
medium of your useful Magazine, what is the most generally received opi-
nion as to the cause of that distressing disease, the goitre, with which the
inhabitants of Switzerland and other countries are afflicted. It has been
attributed to some peculiar quality in the water of mountainous districts;
but this appears to me to be totally inadequate to account for a disease
which appears under such different circumstancesof climate and habitation.
May it not, with more probability, arise from some peculiar disposition in
the muscles of the throat, which certain habits of life have, by time, ren-
dered hereditary ? If it be true that the absence of this deformity in the
neighbourhood of Lucca, in Italy, is to be attributed to the iodine with
which the water is there impregnated, how is this supposed to operate ? and
what noxious qualities of the water would it tend to neutralise ? Is the
disease curable without having recourse to the knife ? Yours, &c. — Ok'
scums. June, 1829.

The Dark-looJcing Water Bird (fig. 21. p. 101.) shot at Fowey, I think,
must be the young female of the ^'nas nigra, or Scoter, the peculiar form-
ation of the bill marking the particular species. — Walter Henry Hill. New'
land, July I A. 1829.

The Young of the Raven. — In March last, a nest, containing five young
ones and two unhatched eggs, was brought to me. The young ones were
of various sizes ; the largest covered with down, the smallest quite naked,
but all of them blind. The place for the eye being very indistinctly marked,
query, are all the young of the genus C'orvus expelled from the egg blind;
and if so, how long after their expulsion do they remain without sight? — Id,

The Small Dover. — I shall be obliged for some certain information re-
specting a bird shot by me in May last, figured by Bewick as the Lough
Diver. On my taking it to Ledbetter's to be set up, his son pronounced it
to be the female of the ^'nas Clangula, or Golden Eye ; but I pointed out
circumstances, both as to appearance and otherwise, which convince me
that it is a distinct species. 1 begged he would have it dissected, ,to ascer-

40^ Queries and Ansx<ocrs.

tain the sex, but I have not yet heard the result. The velocity with which
it dived, after being slightly wounded in the wing, exceeds belief; and the
length of time it continued immerged, and the distance it dived to, are re-
markable. Nor was it till I had fired eleven shots at it that it was killed.
The following is the description of it : — Length, when stretched out,
16in. ; breadth, from tip to tip, about 25 in.; the head a bright chestnut-
brown, with a slight crest of the same colour, but a shade darker; the
scapulars pencilled with a bluish grey; the back and rump dusky; the tail
dark brown, with hoary edge, and consisting of sixteen feathers, the centre
ones the longest ; the chin and fore part of the throat white, inclining to
grey; breast pencilled with grey; belly brilliantly white; the lesser coverts
barred with white, in a large patch ; the greater coverts ash colour, with
two white bars; the primaries ash colour. The eye, bright yellow iris, sur-
rounded by white, and very brilliant ; the bill bluish brown ; the legs inclined
to dusky blue ; the webs particularly large and spreading. This bird vt^as
shot in the river Stour, near Sandwich in Kent, and is there known as the
small Dover. Any information respecting its habits, place of breeding, or
other circumstance connected with it, will be interesting to. Sir, yours, &c.
— Walter Henry Hill. Newland, July 14. 1829.

The Black-headed Bunting (in answer to T. G. p. 289.) — Sir, Permit me
to refer T. G. to Bewick's History of British Birds, where he will find an
exact engraving of that small bird called the blackcap (M. Atricapllla Lin.\
and by some the mock nightingale, from its imitation of the notes of that
sweet songster. The blackcap arrives early in the spring, with the many other
small birds which visit us at that season ; it frequents orchards and shrubbe-
ries, and builds its nest in a bush about 4 ft. from the ground. The male
bird has a singular habit of warbling its notes while sitting on the nest, in
which situation I have often seen him. The specific distinction between
the male and female is, that the spot or cap on the head of the former is
coal black, and of the latter a dark brown. Yours, &c. — A Constajit Reader.
July 5. 1829.

A Nest containing a dirty greenish ivMte Egg. — Sir, This nest, of which
the following is a description, was taken by a boy in Essex, during the first
week of this month (July). The nest was built in a kind of hedge of elms,
or the shoots from elms growing by the side of a village road ; it stood 6 or
7 ft. from the ground. The bulk of the nest was formed of moss and wool
intermixed, and outside of this a very few pieces of dried grass were thinly
scattered. The inside was composed entirely of horse and cow hair. In
size it was not quite so large as the nest of the greenfinch. The egg (which
was about the size of a skylark's, though not so tapering at the small end)
was of a dirty greenish white, marked with eccentric dark spots, like the Q^g
of a yellow bunting. It cannot be the egg of that bird, nor of any of the
wagtails, for reasons which, on considering the above description, will, I
think, be apparent. I shall feel obliged if you or any of your correspondents
can enlighten me upon this subject. I take this opportunity of expressing
my regret that some gentleman does not undertake a description of the nests
and eggs of British birds : it is a work much wanted ; and, if executed care-
fully, would, I am convinced, repay his exertions. [There is Donovan's
Nests and Eggs of British Birds. Nos. I. to V. 4to. Zs. 6d. each.] I have
seen some periodical containing coloured engravings of insects, so excel-
lently done, that I am sure the same artist might be employed to advantage
upon the engravings for such a work as that I have mentioned. Is there
any person in London or elsewhere who collects and sells nests and eggs ?
Yours, &c. — T. F.R. Essex, July 13. 1829.

A curious Ball containing Bees. — Sir, Some little time back a curious
ball was discovered suspended from the roof of a hen-house, which, on being
opened, proved to have been the habitation of a species of bee. The cells,
in one of which was an injured specimen of the insect, were enveloped in

Queries and Anstvers. 4-05

three distinct coverings, composed of a brownish substance resembling
paper in appearance, thin and rather brittle. The whole was hung by a
thread of the same material. If you or one of your correspondents would,
through the medium of your valuable Magazine, favour me with the name
of the species which inhabits this curious structure, with some particulars
connected with its natural history, it would oblige yours, &c, — //. Gunt,
Missendeuy Bucks, July 7.1829.

The Harvest Bug. (p. 290.) — This is one of the most teasing little animals in
nature. Though bred and intended, like its congener the red spider ( ^''carus
vitis),to live on vegetables, as currants, raspberries, and French beans, yet it
will desert these, whether by accident or design, to live on and annoy the most
delicate and sensitive portion of the human race. These insects are so mi-
nute, that they are only visible to the keenest eyes, and then only when placed
on any very smooth white surface ; in course, they are only known by their
effects. Ladies and children are the first to complain of their attacks ; and
chiefly where any part of the dress fits closely to the skin. There they seat
themselves at the intersection of the lines, and lay such firm hold with their
feet and jaws, that they cannot be displaced by rubbing, nor by washing,
unless a powerful spirit or acid is used. A microscope readily detects them ;
and, by its assistance, they may be dislodged with the point of a muslin
fieedle, and, if placed on writing paper, will be seen to have eight legs, two
tentacula or feelers, and an abdomen something egg-shaped ; colour livid
red; and in size no bigger than the point of a small needle. They lacerate
the epidermis in some way or other, as a small hole is observable where they
have been seated; and cause extreme itching and considerable inflammation
of the part. — J. M. Chelsea.

The Superstition respecting Bees prevails in some parts, as to informing
them of any great public event that takes place. — Anon. Bishopsbourne
March 26. 1829.

The Eggs of Butterjlies. — Sir, Amongst your numerous correspondents,
unquestionably there are many, no doubt, willing to give any information
that might be considered useful to the pursuit of natural history. Should
there be any that can assist me, I should feel obliged by their communica-
tion. Most generally, collectors find no difficulty in obtaining the eggs of
moths, by the readiness of these insects to copulate and deposit them.
With the butterflies (that portion of Lepidoptera called day-flies) the case
is very different, it being impossible to make them copulate or deposit their
eggs when bred from the chrysalis. At any rate, I have found it so ; nor
do I know any one who has been able to effect it. I have succeeded in
obtaining a few eggs by going into the woods, and catching them whilst in
•copulation, and carrying them home. On the separation of the male, having
placed the female in a box, with some of the food of the caterpillar, and
tied it on with green gauze, I placed it in the sun, and thus obtained only a
few. Should any of your friends be able to assist me, they will oblige me
by their information. Yours, &c. — D. G. Kerridge. Ipswich, July 15. 1829.

The Nidus on a Rush. (p. 104.) — Sir, The illustrious De Geer has given,
in detail, an account of some similar ones that he met with both in Holland
and Sweden. The first he observed were suspended in a hay chamber, and
he noticed others afterwards in similar places. He describes them as com-
posed of silk of a dirty white, in the form of little oval bags, suspended by
a slender but strong thread. They were nearly of the shape of hen's eggs,
and were so thin that the eggs they contained might be seen through them.
When the eggs hatched, they produced a spider, which he names Aranea
tuberculata.* He afterwards found, suspended to stalks of grass, &c., other
nests, more nearly resembling those figured in your Magazine, which he

* De Geer, vii. 227. plate xiii. fig. 5.

406 Qjieries~ and Atistvers.

describes as of the size of a small pea, of the shape of a bottle, with the
bottom flat, containing about a dozen eggs, which also produced spiders.* I
have in my cabinet a similar nest, suspended to the stalk of some grass, which
was given me by my friend the Rev. Revett Sheppard, and is noticed in the
Introduction to Entomology (vol. iii. p. 71. fifth edit.). Most probably, the
nidus described by your correspondent contained the eggs of some spider
frequenting the water. Yours, &c. — Wm. Kirhy. June, 1829.

The Glowworm. — In October, 1828, 1 met
with a luminous insect, under circumstances
similar to the statement of A. A. (Vol. I. ^^s,*^
p. 299.), and I believe the insect to be the
jScolopendra el^ctrica. {fig. 105.) I have an
exact drawing of the insect, and the insect
itself is preserved in spirits. I will lend you
both, if you wish it.— T. N. P. May, 1 829.
[The figure is from the drawing. — Cond.'}

Maiine Plants. — What is the greatest depth at which aquatic or marine
plants have been observed to grow beneath the permanent level of the sur-
face, and what are the modes of fructification in those plants which grow too
deep to send flowers to the surface ? — L. Hampstead, July 23. 1829.

The Starwort of Graham's British Georgics. — Has not J. R. (p. 293.) been
rather hasty in deciding that the Pinguicula vulgaris is the starwort men-
tioned by Graham ? Is it not more probable that the poet, for a moment,
forgetting that he was writing British Georgics, inserted the passage (a trans-
lation from Virgil) without considering that Italian meadows were not Bri-
tish? The incorrect translations of this passage by Dryden, Addison, &c.,
describe the starwort of Virgil {A'^teY Jra^llus) as a plant with \)\ir^\e leaves
and golden-coloured blossoms, instead of describing the blossoms as purple in
the circumference, with a disk of " golden hue." The lines in Graham
have so evidently the same origin, that I should suspect the " husbandmen"
of this country would be very unlikely to be'acquainted with it, as the pro-
duce of an English meadow. I should doubt whether An Apiarian would
do well to offer an infusion of the Pinguicula to his sickly bees. — E. K,
July 15.1829.

A singularly brilliant golden green Light. — Sir, About a month ago,
while exploring the gritstone hills of Derbyshire, with a botanical friend, I
observed, in the shady recesses of some of the rocks, a singularly brilliant
golden green light, which interested and puzzled me exceedingly. It was
perfectly phosphorescent, and rivalled in splendour the gorgeous reflected
tints of the humming bird, or the elytra of some beetles of the ^uprestis
tribe. It was seen to the greatest advantage at the distance of a few yards,
and when it met the eye in one particular direction, out of which it became
dim or was entirely lost, even on a close inspection. Irregular patches of it
covered the surface of moist stones near the ground, and the loose sand ac-
cumulated in the crevices from disintegration. When brought into the full
light for examination, its resplendent character was nearly if not quite gone,
nothing being visible upon the surface of the stone or sand but a filmy irre-
gular network of green, scarcely visible from its delicacy of texture. Jun-
germanm« pusilla and J. minutissima (as I judged by the fronds), and the
beautiful and rare Gymnostomum osmundaccz^m in full fructification, grew
occasionally interspersed with it ; but, after close and repeated scrutiny, we
both agreed that the green light was not emitted from any of these. We
spent above an hour in unavailing efforts to ascertain from what \tdid proceed,
though I had little doubt it owed its origin to some minute vegetable fur-
nished with a peculiar organisation. I brought away some of the best spc-

* De Geer, vii. 229. plate xiii. fig. 10.

Queries and Answers* 407

cimens I could collect. These I have since examined with a powerful mi-
croscope, after keeping them for several days in a very humid atmosphere, in
hopes of their swelling out from reabsorbing moisture, In this I was only
successful where some small depressions in the surface of the stone had pro-
tected this tiny vegetable from the unavoidable pressure of the package; but
to my regret, it did not, with its shape, resume its splendour under any cir-
cumstances in which I could place it. The fronds of the two Jungermannm
expanded beautifully ; and as the inter-reticulations were singularly convex
and pellucid, I thought they might have acted as lenses to condense the
light ; but as some of the stones, which were most splendent, had no veget-
able substance on them but the green film already spoken of, this could not
be the case. That portion of the film which expanded and resumed its
shape, had very much the habit of a Conferva with cylindrical jointed stems
and branches, and of it the an-
nexed sketch {fig. 106.) is a correct
though highly magnified represent-
ation. It approaches so nearly to
Conferva velutina (Byssus velutina
Linn.), that I should at once have
referred it to that species, could I
find any allusion any where to its ex-
cessive brilliancy. I shall feel highly
obliged to any of your correspond-
ents, who may have observed this
striking property, to inform me whe-
ther it proceeds from this Conferva,
or, if not, from what other minute

plant, as I am not aware of its being ''^Cl CTT 106

named by any botanist. Indeed, the metallic lustre, so common on the
feathers of birds and on insects, occurs so rarely in vegetables, that I know
but of a single well-defined example of it, viz. the capsules and under sides
of the fronds of the rare Targionia hypophjlla. Yet I scarcely doubt but
the phenomenon I have described has a vegetable origin. It is, I conceive,
the effect of light concentrated by the convex form of the inter- reticulations
of the pellucid fronds or jointed stems of some very minute plant, and
thence transmitted to the eye through the transparent cuticle ; as a glass
globe or cylinder, filled with any coloured fluid, will reflect its peculiar co-
lour when placed in the shady corner of a room. If the lucid appearance
proceeded from minute particles of dew condensed on the surface, it would
be either entirely colourless, or tinged with the various hues of the prism,
according to the direction in which it was viewed, like the flat gauzy mass
of web of the weaving spider, similarly circumstanced. It is, however, always
of a vivid golden green, which is the general colour of the juices in mosses,
and is only in excess when viewed in one particular angle. Where it oc-
curs, the brilliancy seems to be uniformly diffused, as on a plane j though it
by no means follows that it is so, as the same effect would be produced by
a number of minute, detached, lucid points thickly studded on a dark back-
ground. The different appearance of the lenses of the gold-eyed fly,
^emerobius P^rla, when viewed by the naked eye and through a microscope,
will illustrate this. Its splendour is, doubtless, enhanced by the surrounding
twilight gloom ; but its existence in so obscure a situation adds great weight
to my opinion, that it is caused by rays of light concentrated by, and reflected
from, the innumerable and inconceivably minute lenses of the leaf, many
thousands of which, as the cryptogamic botanist knows, are often collected
within an area no larger than the transverse section of a grain of wheat.
The idea that it is reflected from the silicious particles of the gritstone
could not possibly be entertained by any one who has witnessed its most
singular and brilliant character.

4 OB Queries and A?iswers,

I had almost forgotten to give its precise locality. It occurs among the
singularly romantic rocks called Robin Hood's Stride, Crackcliffe, and
Rowter (particularly in the latter), which are interrupted portions of the
same range of the millstone-grit series, near the junction of that formation
with the limestone shale, and trending N.W. and S. E. a mile or two north
of Winster. On Rowter rock are some huge detached blocks, which I sus-
pect to have been of some importance in times of druidism. — J. E. Bow-
man. The Court near Wrexham^ July 21. 1829.

Laudanum not a Species of Dew (in answer to R. S. p. 298.) — Sir, In the
last Number of the Magazine of Natural History (p. 298.) is a paragraph,
entitled, " Laudanum a species of Dew;" and, after an erroneous statement
vi^hich follows, your correspondent enquires, " Can any of your readers ex-
plain this ? " Now, the explanation is not difficult. Instead of " laudanum ''
the name of the article in question should be ladanum, or rather labdanum.
This is a resinous substance that exudes from several species of Cistus,
natives of the Greek Archipelago ; those that furnish the largest quantity
of ladanum are the Cistus creticus, C. /aurifolius, and C. ladanifer. The
Jadanum is sometimes collected by means of the goats who browse on the
leaves and young branches of these cistuses: the resin sticks to their beards,
and is scraped off from them. The story of its being " a species of dew " is
so absurd, that I am astonished that any one, at this period, can be found
weak enough to believe it. The ladanum which is procured by means of
the goats is purer than that in cakes, owing to its exuding from the plant, and
being free from admixture with the other juices of the plant. It neverthe-
less contains a small proportion of wax, obtained, probably, from the secre-
tion of wax by the leaves and surface of the Cfstus. M. Guibourt analysed
the purest ladanum of commerce, and found it to contain

86 parts of resin and volatile oil,
7 parts of wax,
1 part of extractive, and
6 parts of earthy matter and hairs,

in 1 00 parts.

It was formerly employed as a tonic and stimulant medicine, but is now
rarely administered. Yours, &c. — A. T. Thomson, M.D. 5. Hinde Street,
Manchester Square, July 1. 1829.

The Corn Spring mentioned in Vol. II. p. 297. is similar to those called,
in Kent, nailbournes, one of which joins the Little Stour at Bishopsbourne.
Hasted, in his History of Kent (folio ed. vol. iii. p. 533.), says, their time of
breaking forth and continuance is very uncertain ; but they are held, by the
common people, to be the forerunners of scarcity of corn. They sometimes
break out for one or two successive years; at others, with two, three, or
more years' intervention ; sometimes they flow for a few months, at other
times for three or four years. I can certainly say, from observation, that
they are sometimes dry in wet seasons, and I think the assertion that they
often run in dry seasons, is equally correct. I have somewhere seen an
opinion, that they proceed from subterranean reservoirs in the chalk hills,
which require to be filled to a certain height before they overflow ; and,
therefore, a long continuance of rain may take place without any water
appearing in the nailbourne. Why they should break out in dry weather,
I confess, puzzles me ; and I should like to have the causes of these springs
investigated by some one competent to explain them. — Anon. July, 1829.

THE MAGAZINE

OF

NATURAL HISTORY

NOVEMBER, 1829.

Art. I. Some Account of the Progress of Natural History ^ during
the Year 1 828, as reported to the Academy of Sciences at Paris
by the Baron Cuvier, By Mrs. Bowdich.

Sir,
In compliance with your request, I send you some account
of the yearly report made to the Academy of Sciences by
Baron Cuvier, in his quality of perpetual secretary to that
body, and entitled Analyse des Trax)aux de V Academic Royale
des Sciences pendant Vaimee 1828. In doing this I have pur-
posely avoided those subjects which might not be interesting
to the readers of natural history ; and even in those which are
noticed, I have been obliged to curtail much from the original
work. Baron Cuvier is most elaborate in his explanations,
and carries his readers back to the discoveries of former years
to elucidate those of the present moment, and 1 much regret
that the limits of your Magazine will not allow of a closer
translation. I have, however, done the best I could in so
small a space, and should be very glad to see the example of
this great man followed by some one of his learned cotempo-
raries in this country.

The Partie Physique commences with Meteorology, and
contains some particulars, communicated by M. Moreau de
Jonnes, of the earthquake which took place in the West
Indies, on the 29th of March, 1828. Twelve shocks had
been felt in the space of eight months, but the most violent
was at the above period. The movement was from east to
west, and it extended across the Atlantic and American con-
tinent in the space of twenty-three hours, when it caused
great destruction at Lima, and where the shock was violent,
and lasted from thirty-five to forty-five seconds.

Under the head of Chemistry and Chemical Sciences, are
two or three discoveries which may be generally interesting.
The first is that of the son of the M, Raymond who substi-

Vol. II. —No. 10. ee

410 Progress of Natural History,

tuted Prussian blue for indigo in dying silk, thread, and cotton.
M. Raymond the younger has improved on his father's pro-
cess by imparting the same colour to woollen materials. The
dye thus given is brighter than that from indigo, remains un-
injured by vv^ater, fresh air, and light, but changes imme-
diately when it comes in contact with boiling soap-suds and
alkaline liquids.

M. Chevreul, so long known for his experiments on greasy
substances, has been enabled to extract the greasy matter
contained in wool, by the action of alcohol and ether. In
this state wool is more difficult to dye, but if dipped into sub-
carbonate of soda, it regains its power of absorbing colouring
matters.

MM. Chevalier and Lenglum^ have been of essential
service to the art of lithography, by the composition of two
substances : the one for preparing the stone to receive the
drawing, and printing from it when drawn upon, and the other
for effacing the drawing. The first is an acid, which renders
the surface of the stone more capable of imbibing the water
which resists the printing-ink, and abstracts every thing
like alkali from the material used for drawing. The receipt
is as follows : — 3lbs. of hydro-chloric acid mixed with
white marble. Filter the solution, and add 3 lbs. of water.
Then melt 12oz. of gum arabic in this mixture; and lastly
add 3 oz. more of hydro-chloric acid, which can be in-
creased if more strength be required. This liquid spreads
itself more equally over the stone, and preserves humidity
longer than any other yet in use. The second substance
spoken of above, is potash, rendered caustic by lime, and dis-
solved in sixteen parts of water. The stone is washed, and
then left in this liquid for four hours, which operation is re-
peated, as often as necessary, upon the whole or part of the
stone. This, by entirely taking out the drawing, supersedes
the use of pumice, sandstone, &c., which in time wear away
the stone.

M. Beudant, who has long devoted himself to the relative
weights and proportions of minerals, has ascertained that the
specific gravity of these bodies is not as uniform as hitherto
supposed. Carbonated lime, for instance, varies between 2*7
and 2-5 ; arragonite between 2*9 and 2*7. The state of crys-
tallisation has a sensible influence over these variations. The
specific gravity of small crystals is the greatest, and it probably
diminishes in larger crystals from their internal vacuities being
greater than in a more homogeneous mass. The varieties of
lamellar, or fibrous structure, are also the lightest, and decrease
still further in weight as the fibres increase in size. The spe^

during the Year 1828. 411

cific gravity is also less in those varieties which are produced
by decomposition. The great proof, that the specific gravity
depends on the quantity of vacant space in minerals, is, that
when all the varieties are reduced to powder they weigh
alike.

Among the notices on Geology are the following: — M.Roset
has been continuing the researches of Dr. Fitton, in the Bas
Boulonnais, and confirms the English geologist's theory, that
the strata of this district are exactly similar to those of the
opposite county in England, both in composition and position.
To these researches M. Roset has added many new details
and maps. — A bed of manganese, situated at Romaneche,
near Macon, has attracted the attention of geologists, and
some (among whom is the celebrated Dolomieu) have thought
it to be a vein, and others have supposed it to be a heap or
mass placed upon the granite. According to the recent ob-
servations of M. Bonnard, it appears to accord with each
opinion. At Romaneche, where it is worked, it certainly lies
in a heap above the granite ; but to the south of this village,
and in the same direction, it forms a true vein, which traverses
the granite, and in every respect resembles the heap in sub-
stance : a circumstance which M. Bonnard looks on as likely
to substantiate the theory, that certain formations are caused
by subterranean overflowings. The* same author conjectured
that the deposits of manganese at Dordogne were similarly
situated ; a supposition which has been confirmed by M. Du-
fresnoy, who, with his companion M. Elie de Beaumont, is
preparing a geological map of France.

Several caverns, which were supposed to be destitute of
fossils, have, since Dr. Buckland's instructions on the manner
of finding them, produced a number of very interesting remains.
M. Delanoue has just found a new instance of their constant
occurrence in subterranean caves, in the grotto of Miremont,
in the Dordogne department. This grotto appears to have
been hollowed out in an intermediate formation, between chalk
and Jura limestone. The-galleries are 2000 paces long, and
end in a multitude of low, narrow ramifications, where the
bones are deposited. They are enveloped in red clay, and are
principally those of bears. Some pits, dug from two to four
hundred paces from the mouth, exposed different layers of
marl, which appeared to be more recent than the red clay.
In these were found some broken pieces of pottery, similar to
those contained in the ruins and alluvial earth of the neigh-
bourhood, and which are supposed to be prior to the intro-
duction of Roman arts into France.

E E 2 .^i':.jr^

412 Progress of Natural History,

Since the discoveries of M. Delanoue, M. Tournal, a che-*
mist of Narbonne, has made other researches at Bize, in the
Aude department. The cave is in the Jura concretion. Part
of the bones are enveloped in a stony concretion, and, ac
cording to him, belong to those extinct species usually found
in caves. Others are in black mud, and wholly different to
the former. Besides these, not only in the black mud, but
among the calcareous concretions, are human bones and pieces
of pottery. M. Destrem, who has examined the same cave,
only found some remains of ruminating animals, principally of
the deer kind, and several bones of rabbits and birds. He
does not consider the human bones worthy of attention, as
they are neither impregnated with clay, nor covered with the
ferruginous crust, which both distinguish true fossils. M. De-
strem supposes them to have been recently lodged in these
caves, as they have several times been the resort of malefac-
tors.

MM. Marcel, Deserre, Dubrueil, and Jean Jean, professors
at Montpelier, have begun publishing their description of the
caves of Lunel Vieil, long celebrated for the abundance and
variety of their fossil remains. There are three of them in
the same garden, and penetrating into the same hill, which is
formed of tertiary marine limestone, and which is more recent
than the coarse limestone of Paris. The remains are found in
a mud, which is full of rolled flints, and all mingled together,
without any regard even to the skeleton to which they be-
longed. These have not been rolled, but broken by some
violent shock, and have numerous fissures on their surface,
which have induced the belief that they have been a long
time without flesh. There are fourteen species of Carnivora,
seven of Ruminantia, seven of Pachydermata, and five of Ro-
dentia. In the first order are three species of hyaenas, similar
to those found in England, and mingled with excrements and
other bones, which bear the marks of the teeth of these ani-
mals. Notwithstanding this, the above gentlemen believe
them to have been brought thither by an inundation, which
has swept with it the bones of the whole neighbouring soil : a
belief which explains some extraordinary contradictions ; for
it is well known that hyaenas could not live in the same cave
with tigers, nor dogs with hyaenas; and yet, in the lapse of
years, these animals may probably have inhabited the same
spot at different periods. Another place, abounding in these
remains, exists in Auvergne, in a mountain near Issoire, which
has been explored with much zeal and labour by MM. De-
veze de Chabriol and Bouillet, and M M. I'Abbe Croiset and
Jobert. The first two have already published their observ-

during the Year 1828, : I .413

ations, but the last two have not yet terminated this part of
iheir labours. The structure of the mountain is of fresh-
water limestone, resting upon granite, with strata of sand
alternating with layers of volcanic remains, and crowned by
enormous masses of these same remains. Notwithstanding
the volcanic productions all round, the formation of this
mountain must be referred to that named diluvium, as the
bones found are the same as those which characterise this
formation, and it is so rich, and contains so many species, that
it must always be one of the most remarkable monuments of
^ former world. But in this same country are still older
formations, made by fresh water, and containing layers of
sand, which present us with different genera. Among these
are found many remains of birds (in which Auvergne is ge-
nerally abundant), and even some of their eggs, in beautiful
preservation. In these places there are no marine beds, the
bones are scattered, not rolled, and are often mingled with
fresh-water shells.

M. Adolphe Brongniart, who has devoted himself with such
extraordinary zeal and perseverance to fossil botany, has been
obliged to create a new^ method of ascertaining the nature of
vegetable deposits, and has formed it from the surface and
composition of the stems, the nerves of the leaves, &c. &c.
He has commenced publishing a new work, where he describes
more than 500 fossil species, with their positions. By help of
these species, he establishes a certain number of successive
formations, in which vegetables succeed each other with few
changes, and in almost equal numbers of genera ; and other
formations, where genera and families undergo the most
sudden changes and bear no affinity to each other. By means
of these rapid changes, he has fixed certain vegetable geolo-
gical periods, which he has reduced to four; during each of
which vegetation has presented but few remarkable changes,
but the passages of which from one to another have been
strongly marked. The first comprehends transition earths
and coal, the second speckled sandstone, the third extends
from the upper part of shelly Hmestone to the under chalk,
and the fourth corresponds with the tertiary formations. These
are separated by strata, which contain few or no vegetable
remains ; as the red sandstone and the alpine limestone, which
intervene between the first and the second ; the secondary
limestone, between the second and third ; and chalk between
the third and fourth. In the first period the ferns and the
larger vegetables predominate ; in the second is an equal num-
ber of ferns, monocotyledons, and Coniferae, but of a smaller
size than in the first; in the third the Cycadeae are most

EE 3

414 Progress of Natural History^

abundant, and there is a dearth of dicotyledons in all three ;
but in the fourth is a remarkable predominance of dicotyle-
dons, and a similarity to the vegetables of the present day.
Thus, as in the animal kingdom, an affinity may be traced
between each succession and the state of vegetation in the
different zones of the present globe. The Flora of the first
period approaches to that of the small islands between the
tropics, and far from continents ; which induces the author to
think, that during this period the temperature of the earth was
higher, and that it was formed of small islands, scattered in a
vast ocean, and that no great continent existed ; a result which,
in other respects, agrees with the disposition of coal form-
ations, and at which Deluc and others have arrived by different
means. The second and third periods have some of the cha-
racters of the larger islands and the coasts ; and, lastly, the
fourth period, or tertiary formation, is analogous to the vege-
getables of the temperate zones, especially the forests of Europe
and North America. Many of these vegetables have been
developed before we find any traces of animals ; but, as we
advance, we perceive cold-blooded animals ; but it is only in
the middle of the fourth period that animals with warm blood
are found in any number, and their appearance coincides in a
remarkable degree with the multiplication of dicotyledons.
With such facts before him, the young author has been un-
able to resist the temptation of trying to account for these
wonderful vicissitudes, and he thinks they are owing to the
action of these vegetables upon the atmosphere. He sup-
poses that the carbon now employed in organic life was at
first, under the form of carbonic acid, an integral part of the
atmosphere, from which it was extracted by vegetable ab-
sorption. " Being surcharged with this acid," says M. Adolphe
Brongniart, " the atmosphere was as favourable to the rapid
growth of plants, as it was injurious to that of animals with
warm blood ; and it is before these animals show themselves,
that we find these enormous masses of vegetables. Animals
with cold blood do not require so pure an air, and have
appeared when much of this carbonic acid has been absorbed ;
and the animals with warm blood have only existed when the
air has been more completely purified by the long continued
action of vegetation, and especially vegetation consisting of
large forests, spread over vast continents."

In that portion of M. Cuvier's report devoted to Vegetable
Physiology and Botany is an account of a new discovery made
by M. Dutrochet, which has been deemeji so new and im-
portant, that the Academy has voted him the physiological
prize founded by M. de Monthyon. M. Dutrochet calls his

during the Year 1828. 415

discovery Endosmosis ♦, or that property which, in two fluids
of different natures or density, separated from each other by
a thin porous division, produces the effect of the one pene-
trating the division rather than the other, and with sufficient
power to raise the latter much above the level at which it
would remain agreeably to the laws of equilibrium. M. Du-
trochet has taken great pains to verify the quickness and force
of this new power, as well as all the circumstances which
favour or oppose it ; and he has made the happiest applica-
tions of his discovery to those questions in vegetable physio-
logy, the solution of which has been despaired of by physiolo-
gists. He has invented a very simple instrument, which he
calls an endosmometer, and which consists of a tube, larger at
one end than the other, and which is closed at the largest end
by a bladder, or some other thin substance. This tube is
filled with a fluid, and the closed end is plunged into a vase
filled with another fluid, the action of which is to be ascer-
tained, on that contained in the tube. In general, when the
liquid in the vase is water, and that of the tube is more dense
than water, the liquid rises in the tube, because the water goes
up into it; and this ascension will extend several feet, and
constitutes endosmosis. If the position of the fluids be changed,
the movement will take place in an inverse direction, the water
in the tube will descend towards the denser liquor in the vase,
and will then form exosmosis. f There are even, properly
speaking, two currents in opposite directions : the endosmosis
and the exosmosis will take place at the same time, but one
of the two will have the ascendency. The quickness of the
endosmosic action is proportioned to the excess of density in
the interior liquid (that of the tube) over that of the exterior
(in the vase). It is supposed that this discovery will not only
greatly elucidate the ascension of vegetable fluids, but vege-
table irritability. By way of exemplifying this, we will ob-
serve, that the valves of the capsule of the ^alsamina have a
strong tendency to curve inwards, and as soon as the fibre
which unites them weakens, they curve in this manner with
as much force as rapidity. This is caused by their exterior
cells being larger than those of the internal surface, and con-
sequently by their containing most water, and swelling into
convexity. This elasticity of the valves diminishes by a partial

* Derived from two Greek words, the one implying inward, and the othet
impulse; which, together, accurately describe the singular phenomenon
illustrated by the physiologist.

t This is the reverse of the phenomenon described in the previous note,
and the term is also derived from the Greek, only expressing the outward
instead of the inward motion.

E E 4

416 Progress of Natural History^

evaporation of the internal fluid, and returns again, when the
valves are plunged into water before they are entirely dry.
According to M. Dutrochet, after incomplete evaporation they
still contain a dense fluid, and endosmosis will take place; but
after entire desiccation, the water only effects common ab-
sorption. If we plunge these same valves of the jBalsamina
into a denser fluid than that which they contain, syrup for
instance, exosmosis takes place, they immediately cease to
curve inwards, and soon turn back, because their larger ex-
terior vessels lose more of their fluid than those of the interior.
By applying even the little that has been already said, and
which does not contain more than half of the details entered
into by M. Cuvier, it will be seen that this power acts on the
direction of the stem and radicle of the embryo in germinating
seeds, even on the tendency of stems and roots to ascend and
descend, and also on the curvature of stems, which are upright
as long as their proper equilibrium is retained.

The structure and developements of the vegetable ovulum,
which have for many years excited the attention and study of
the first botanists in Europe, and which, after so many scien-
tific observers, might be thought exhausted subjects, have
again been the object of M. de Mirbel's researches, who in
some respects confirms, but in others contradicts, the asser-
tions of his learned predecessors. He considers the ovulum
from its birth, follows it through all its developements, even
through its changes of position and exterior forms, by which
he has been led to divide seeds into three classes : first, the
" Orthotropes," which retain the position they had in the first
instance, and which is that of the base exactly opposite to the
summit; secondly, the " Anatropes," which change their
position so completely as to be reversed; and, thirdly, the
" Campulitropes," which curve in an arch or circle, so that the
summit approaches the base. A long time ago M. de Mirbel
observed, that in square stems with opposed leaves, there are
four vascular and ligneous bundles, which correspond with the
four angles, and that at the extreme point of insertion of each
pair of leaves, these bundles communicate with each other by
means of lateral ramifications, which form an annular pad
round the stem. The trunk of an old Calycanthus floridus
has furnished the author with a fresh confirmation of this fact.
The four vascular bundles at the angles of this Calycanthus
have grown with the stem, and formed four projections out-
side, which appear like cords the size of the fourth finger.
Each of these has a cortical covering of its own, ligneous
layers placed one above another, large vessels in a circular
series in the wood, radiations which proceed from the centre

during the Year 1 82S, 1 417

to the circumference, and a medullary canal. Thus the organ-
isation of the four bundles, and consequently their growth,
are exactly similar to those of the ligneous stems of coty-
ledon plants. This unexpected fact has appeared so strange
to several people, that they fancied these bundles had been
engrafted on the stem. They were, however, undeceived by
a close examination.

M. du Petit Thouars, when observing the flowers of the
wild poppy, was struck with the disposition of the stamina,
none of the anthers of which touch each other, notwithstand-
ing their great number. This probably arises from the regu-
larity with which they radiate from a common centre. In
some flowers, such as those of the JKosaceae, where the stamina
are not quite so numerous, we can trace a rectilinear arrange-
ment, arising from their insertion and their unequal lengths.
These divisions generally accord with the number of the
petals, and all the observations of M. de Thouars confirm the
assertion of Grew, that the arithmetic of nature always accords
with its geometry. They also prove the position of Linnaeus,
that the flower is but the transformation of the leaf; and
another, that the number five is most employed by nature in
dicotyledons, and three in monocotyledons. M. de Thouars
traces these last two to the manner in which the bundles of
vessels proceed from the scion into the leaves. The remark,
that five was a favourite number in nature, was made by
Thomas Brown in 1656.

M. Adolphe Brongniart last year made some observations
concerning the pollen of flowers, which led him to state, that
every grain is an organised bladder, filled with corpuscles,
themselves organised, and gifted with separate movements.
On the other hand, M. Raspail, one of the most skilful ob-
servers of microscopic phenomena, has presented a memoir to
the Academy, declaring that these bodies are only moved by
external causes, and that they are resinous, or oily drops,
which dissolve in alcohol. M. A. Brongniart, supported in
his opinion by the celebrated English botanist, Robert Brown,
has defended his previous statement in a second memoir, and
repeated his experiments. The Committee of the Academy
have determined, that M. A. Brongniart has proved that ex-
ternal causes have nothing to do with the movements observed
by Mr. R. Brown and himself, and the Committee at the same
time declare, that similar movements have been clearly demon-
strated to them, as existing in many different bodies. This
phenomenon, however, varies very much, even when the cir-
cumstances are alike, and the question of fecundation is wholly
independent of these movements. i ,.

418 Progress of Natural History ^

M. Moreau de Jonnes has communicated an extensive me-
moir on maize. He first contradicts the opinion, that it was
known to the inhabitants of the old world before the discovery
of the new, over the whole of which it is now spread, and
known under various names. M. Moreau's researches have
been profound, and he proves that human agency introduced
it into the ancient continent, and that, by the same means,
rice, millet, and wheat have been carried to the Americans.

M. Delille has described the structure of the flower and
fruit of the Thelygonum Cynocrambe, belonging to the family
of Chenopodiaceae, observed by him in the neighbourhood of
Montpelier, and hitherto unknown to botanists. When grown
in a damp soil, the fruit loses its pulp and epidermis, and is
covered with a white dust, which looks very much like amianth,
and which resists decomposition much longer than any vege-
table substance. This dust consists of a prodigious number
of needle-shaped crystals, pointed at each end, thicker in the
middle, and having a flat facet on each side, which is only to
be seen with a microscope. These crystals, larger than those
of most other vegetables, are agglomerated in bundles, so as
to make the surface of the fruit appear wrinkled.

The great descriptive works on botany are continued with-
out intermission. M. Decandolle has published a monograph
on Crassulaceae ; M. Auguste St. Hilaire one on i^olygalae ;
M. Kunth announces a work on grasses, which will doubtless
be full of the most important observations. This learned bo-
tanist has also published a special description of the ^alsamina
of our gardens. M, Cambessedes has presented a memoir to
the Academy, containing numerous details concerning the
Ternstrom/ac^<^ and Guttiferae, in which two families he pro-
poses several new genera, and rejects others as not belonging
to them. M. Bory St. Vincent has minutely described the
Agamia and Cryptogamia collected by the ship Coquille, in
her voyage round the world. M. Guillemin has given a
collection of drawings of rare plants in Australia. M. Des-
courtils continues his medical Flora of the West Indies, and
has published a familiar treatise on edible and poisonous
mushrooms.

In treating of Anatomy and Animal Physiology, Baron
Cuvier tells us, that M. Magendie has collected into one
work, all his scattered observations on the brain and the
liquid which bathes it, and the medulla spinalis. According to
M. Magendie, adult women have more of this fluid than men ;
but it abounds most in the skull of old people, whose brain is
diminished by age. Idiots are said to have even a larger pro-
portion of it. It forms a layer all round the brain, one or two

;. during the Year 1828. ' i^M9

lines thick ; but, under certain circumstances, and in certain
places, it is the thickness of an inch, which appears to M. Ma-
gendie to be a strong objection against a system which esta-
blishes a close affinity between the form of the skull and the
brain.

M. Flourens, who made important experiments on the effect
produced by taking away different parts of the encephalon, has
this year applied his observations to the medulla spinalis and
medulla oblongata, with a view of ascertaining their exact
limits, and comparing their action upon the respiration of the
four classes of vertebrated animals. The results of these ex-
periments are, that the medulla spinalis may be abstracted with
less injury from Mammalia than from birds ; still more maybe
taken from certain reptiles, and fishes may be entirely de-
prived of it. This proves, says M. Flourens, that the medulla
oblongata is the essential and primordial organ of all mechani-
cal respiration, and the exclusive organ in fishes. The same
author has renewed his experiments on the canals of the ear,
which produced such extraordinary movements in the animals
on whom they were performed, and who, in spite of the dis-
order thus produced, continued in perfect health. The section
of a horizontal canal constantly keeps the head in motion
from right to left, and left to right ; and, when two canals are
cut, this movement becomes so rapid and impetuous, that the
animal loses its equilibrium, and turns round and round, with-
out the power of stopping. If, on the other hand, the exter-
nal semicircular canals be divided, the movement is up and
down, and frequently with such violence as to throw the ani-
mal back, head over heels. If the internal canals be cut, the
same movements take place, except that the animal is thrown
forwards, heels over head. These movements cease when the
animal remains perfectly still ; but, if it tries to move from one
place to another, they immediately recommence, and render
both walking and flying impossible. M. Flourens and M. Ma-
gendie have also tried experiments upon uniting nerves which
have been separated ; they have even brought the ends of dif-
ferent nerves together, which have completely united, and, in
some cases, even the functions have been entirely restored.

M. Giroux de Buzaraingue has invented a peculiar method
of determining the functions of the encephalon. It is from the
inspection of the changes occasioned in sheep, by the malady
known under the name of " tournis," and finding the place in
the brain occupied by the parasitical animal which caused the
disease. Assisted by the curious researches of M. Magendie
on the cerebellum, as connected with the movements of ani-

iiSO Progress of Natural History,

jrials, he has arrived at some important conclusions. Intoxi-
cation, which alters the powers of motion nearly as much as
injury to the cerebellum would do, deadens almost all sen-
sations ; and several known facts relative to the sleep of those
affected by wine or opium, the nature of their dreams, the
walking while asleep, &c., appear to M. de Buzaraingue to
prove the active part which the cerebellum takes in producing
sensations, and the recollection it retains of them. According
to him, it is the cerebellum which presents the part to the ce-
rebrum, and it is thus that the successive actions of animals
cooperate with each other; but the cerebellum has no direct
influence on these actions, and the brain alone can command
them.

Dr. Foville, physician to the lunatic hospital at Rouen, has
also presented to the Academy a memoir concerning the brain,
in which he places the connection of the different parts of this
organ, both between themselves and the medulla spinalis, in a
new light.

MM. Isidore GeofFroy St. Hilaire and Martin have made
some very interesting observations on the canals in the corpus
cavernosum of tortoises and crocodiles, which communicate
with the interior of the abdomen, and even, as it would appear,
with the exterior.

In the article on Zoology, M. Cuvier first states, that M.
•GeofFroy St. Hilaire, in his lectures on Mammalia, which have
been published, has given a detailed account of the mole, and
communicated to the Academy several of those parts which
concern this animal. Among a number of anatomical details,
he has endeavoured to explain the causes of the diminutive
size of the eyes and optic nerves, and states them to be the
immense developement of the olfactory apparatus, the size of
the nasal conchs, the thickness of the nerve of the upper jaw,
^nd the extraordinary volume of the olfactory lobe of the
brain. M. GeofFroy believes that the optic nerve does not
exist within the skull, but that it is placed outside, close to the
fiye, and, being unable to penetrate into the skull by the usual
method, on account of the compression of the sphenoid, ac-
cording to the words of the author, is obliged to get in by the
iiearest way, and this nearest way is by attaching itself to the
trunk of the fifth pair. What is very remarkable, and what
contradicts several theories concerning the special functions of
different lobes of the brain, is, that those lobes which are be-
lieved to be the optic thalami, are, in the mole, above rather
than below the proportionate size of those animals who have
the clearest and strongest vision. Added to these observations,
the author favours us with some very interesting particulars on

during the Year 1 82S, ^^ 421

the habits of the mole. Among others is the surprising quick-
ness with which it escapes, when frightened, through its sub-
terranean chambers, and in which are openings for air placed
at certain distances. It is a cruel voracious beast, satisfied
only with animal substances, and easily killed by hunger.
None of them can remain more than twelve hours without
food, and even after an interval of six hours they are much
exhausted. They generally eat worms and insects, but if
they can catch a bird, a small quadruped, or a frog, they pre-
cipitate themselves on it with fury, open the belly, devour the
entrails, pulling the edges of the wound asunder and pene-
trating as far as possible into the body without being diverted
from their purpose by the presence of man, or noise. They do
not even spare their own species, and if two are shut up to-
gether without food, there will shortly be nothing left of the
weakest but its skin, slit along the belly.

M. Isidore GeofFroy has presented a memoir on those Chei-
roptera w|;iich feed on fruits, hitherto comprehended in the
genus Pteropus. To this genus he adds a new species to
those properly called Pteropus, and another to Pachysoma,
which has lately been separated from that genus.

It is well known how many remarkable differences exist be-
tween animals that have been tamed and those living in a wild
state. Interesting as it has been to trace these changes, it has
been quite as much so to mark the alterations in animals who,
after having been domesticated, again become wild. Dr. Rou-
lin has given an account of some transported to South Ame-
rica by the Spaniards, and now living in their natural con-
dition. He first observes the return of these races to the
uniformity of their fur. All the horses are of a dark brown,
the asses are all of a dark grey, and the hogs are black. The
ears of the latter stand upright, and their skull is enlarged,
the courage of the ass is revived, and yet some few traces of
domesticity still remain. The horses amble, because they are
descended from ponies who were taught this pace ; the dogs,
who spring from hounds trained to hunt the peccary, still pre-
serve the same means of attack and defence; but the cows give
milk no longer than necessary for the nourishment of their
calves.

M. Cuvier has added to M. Lemaire's great collection of
Latin classics, by explanations of those books of Pliny which
treat of animals. His object has been to determine the species
mentioned by Pliny as known to him only by report. In
order to accomplish this, M. Cuvier has brought to his assist-
ance all that has been said by the other ancient authors con-
cerning each animal, he has endeavoured to point out all that

428 Progress of Natural History^

may be regarded as fabulous in the narratives and descriptions
of travellers in distant countries, at a period when the most
enlightened were comparatively ignorant of natural history ;
and he has tried to identify those animals with those inscribed
by modern naturalists in their catalogues ; and, in doing
which, he has obtained some new and interesting results. The
same aujthor, in conjunction with M. Valenciennes, has pub-
lished the first three volumes of their great work on ichthyo-
logy. The first contains the history of the science, and a
general and detailed account of the organisation of fishes.
The second begins with the family of perches, and contains
the descriptions of 245 species, divided into 20 genera. The
third volume terminates this family, and contains 182 species,
divided into 32 genera. These volumes are accompanied by
figures of 63 species, and eight large anatomical plates.

Among the works devoted to the representation of natural
history in different countries, that of M. Audubon, on the
birds of South America, surpasses all others both in colouring
and engraving. The plates are the largest ever yet published,
for the eagles and the tetraos are all the size of life, and when
the bird is not large enough to fill the paper, it is represented
in its various attitudes. M. Audubon's is a work in which
the Academy, in common with all the friends of science, take
a deep interest, and they with pleasure see the naturalists of
the New World profiting so amply by the instruction they
have derived from a more ancient source.

Two memoirs have been read to the Academy on the dis-
tinguishing characters and natural history of lizards, one of
which was written by M. Dugez, and the other by M. Milne
Edwards. In the first, the author sets forth some anatomical
observations on the nervus accessorius, and states his convic-
tion that these animals breathe like frogs ^d tortoises, by a sort
of deglutition of the air, facilitated by suckers or valves placed
at the orifice of the nostrils, and especially by the six cornua
of their os hyoides, which support and move the pharynx.
M. Dugez has also studied the phenomenon of the reproduc-
tion of the tail, in which the last vertebrae are constantly re-
placed by a tubular cartilage, in which the spinal marrow is
prolonged. This memoir terminates with a particular descrip-
tion of six indigenous species, observed by the author at dif-
ferent periods of growth, by which observation he has been
enabled to recognise, among those supposed to be distinct
species, the young ones of others : as the Zacerta lepida of
Daudin, which, when aged, assumes the characters of the ia-
certa ocellata ; the Xacerta viridis, which becomes like the

during the Year 1828. 423

•to

Li, bilineata ; and the Z/. sepium, which takes the appearance
of the jL. arenicola.

M. Milne Edwards has arrived at the same results as M.
Dugez with regard to indigenous species, but has invented a
new method of characterising all kinds, which is by the scaly
plates of the head. Their number, shape, and proportions are
generally constant in each species, and sufficiently different
from others to adopt this method.

M. Dugez has also been observing the deglutition of rep-
tiles in general, and gives some new details on the changes
which take place in the tongues of frogs, &c., which are short
and immovable in the tadpole, but which in the frog, and es^
pecially in the toad, become organs of extreme mobility.
When still, they are folded back towards the throat, but can
be unfolded with astonishing rapidity. The author describes
the muscles of this singular mechanism, and those which pro-
duce the darting and vibrating movements of the tongues of
adders.

M, Dugez, professor at Montpelier, has composed a me-
moir on the respiration of that family of the Annelides which
is destitute of branchiae, as the fresh-water worm, the leech,
and the Nai'sa. The Naisa has a dorsal vessel, which makes
a fold at each ring of the body, and carries the blood from
behind to before ; and a ventral vessel, less in size, and less
flexible, which conveys it in a contrary direction. These two
communicate by anastomoses, and on each side is a contractile
bladder, which appears to receive the blood of the dorsal ves-
sel, and, as it contracts, to send the blood into the ventral.
The network of anastomoses in the tail, which is constantly in
motion, forms a very complicated vascular apparatus, which
appears to M. Dugez to be the organ of respiration. Leeches
have a dorsal, a ventral, and two large lateral vessels, all of
which communicate in different manners. As to their respir-
ation, besides that which is effected by the skin, another way
exists by means of a number of bladders, placed on each side,
and communicating with the exterior by a small pore. The
same author makes a number of other valuable observations
on the circulation of the blood, and the generation of these
animals, and proves that the iumbricus is not viviparous, as
generally supposed ; and that which has been taken for a foetus,
is nothing but an intestinal worm. In another memoir the
author treats of a genus but little known, called by naturahsts
Planaria ; the body is flat and thin, and of a parenchymatous
substance. The author forms these animals into a family,
which he names Planarise, which family he divides into several
genera. Although very quick in their movements, they are so

424 Progress of Nattiral History,

soft and glutinous that the least pressure will crush them.
When divided, they continue to advance in the direction pur-
sued by the primitive mass. In some it has been impossible
to discover any nerves, or orifices ; in others, there is one
opening. The alimentary cavity is like a bag, from which
issue numerous branching ramifications. M. Dugez thinks he
has discovered something like a system of circulation. Some
of them are oviparous, and others are reproductive, like Po-
lypi, From this it would seem that M. Cuvier's suspicions of
their near approach to the Fasciolae are confirmed.

M. de Blainville has published and presented two works to
the Academy, partly extracted from his contributions to the
Dictionnaire des Sciences, The first is a monograph on jf/iru-
dinaceae, in which he considers their anatomy, their natural
history, and their uses. He divides them into twelve genera
or sections.

M.. Moquin Taudon has also published a monograph on the
same family, but he only divides them into eight genera.

The second work of M. de Blainville is on worms, part of
which is printed under the title of Manuel (T Helminthologie,
but it is impossible to enter into the details of this voluminous
subject.

M. de Blainville is employed with M. Vieillot in editing the
French Fauna, which will contain the history and figure of all
the animals existing in France. Twenty numbers in Svohave
already appeared, with coloured plates.

MM. Audouin and Milne Edwards, who have combined
their efforts for the progress of comparative anatomy, have
turned their attention to Crustacea. Their memoir contains
a description of the breathing organs of this class, with their
mechanism ; but these gentlemen do not confirm the opinion
started a little while back, that Crustacea have, besides their
branchiae, an organ more or less analogous to the lungs of
those classes which breathe the open air. MM. Audouin
and Edwards, in the hope of facilitating their researches, es-
tablished themselves on the rocks of Chaussey, frequented
only by stone-workers, where, sheltered by a mere hut, they
collected more than 600 species of the Crustacea, MoUusca,
and Zoophytes of the EngHsh Channel, 400 of which are either
new or imperfectly known. They have ascertained that the
Ascidiae are all born separately ; they swim rapidly, and, at the
end of a few days, some fix themselves to the mass from which
they sprung, and others form new colonies. These naturalists
have, as well as M. de Blainville, confirmed the idea, that the
animals called Flustrae approach the Ascidiae much more than
the Polypi, as Spallanzani imagined. They have also strength-

during ike Fe«r 1828. 425

ened the remarks of M. Cuvier upon the Veretilla, Pennatulae,
and -41cy6nia. Other masses, till now confounded with AX-
cy6nia, are not even Polypi, and the living matter is distributed
among them as in sponges. Their only sign of vitality is, that
they slowly contract and close when irritated.

M. Milne Edwards has described four new Crustacea, which
are very interesting, as they form links between the genera of
this class. Almost all are microscopic.

M. Guerin has described two larger species, one belonging
to the family of crabs, which he has named Eurypoda ; the
other to shrimps, the eyes of which occupy nearly the whole
head, and which he calls Themisto.

M. de Blainville has made some new and important observ-
ations on the Physalia, which has been hitherto looked on as
a zoophyte, and made the type of one of the orders by M.
Cuvier ; but from its orifices, its intestine, and muscular crest
or foot, M. de Blainville thinks it ought to rank with Mol-
lusca. To do this, however, it must possess a nervous and a
vascular system, a heart, a liver, &c., all of which have been
searched for in vain by M. Cuvier.

Zoology continues to receive vast accessions from the nauti-
cal expeditions ordered by the government. Five successive
collections, sent by MM. Quoy and Gaymard, who have vi-
sited several parts of the South 8ea and the coasts of New
Guinea, present thousands of animals. The Chevrette, com-
manded by Captain Fabre, who has traversed the Bay of
Bengal, and touched at the Sunda Isles, has acquired great
treasures, thanks to the zeal of the chief surgeon, M. Rey-
naud, and other officers.

In the report on Agriculture, &c. M. Giroux de Buzaraingue
is said to have published a memoir, stating, that wheat grows
much better when its roots do not penetrate too far into the
ground ; therefore, when the soil is prepared to receive it,
care should be taken to leave it in a coarse, lumpy state. M.
Giroux also observes, that when wheat is sown thickly, the
grain is better, the epidermis thinner, and the straw finer.

M. de Beaujeu, after many years' attention to the manufac-
ture of sugar from beet-root (and which has by many been
thought for the last twenty-five years the most likely means of
checking the slave trade), has established a manufacture on
his own property, and communicated some of the results of
his labours. His experiments are very similar to those lately
adopted for sugar canes in the colonies, and he considers the
making of beet-root sugar in France a lucrative speculation.

The Annales Agricoles de Roville, by M. Mathieu, of Dom-
basle, are continued. The particulars concerning the experi^

Vol. II. — No. 10. f f

4-26 Progress of Natural History^

mental farm at Roville are not only useful to the pupils, but
to agriculturists in general.

M. Huzzard, the son, has communicated a manuscript trea-
tise on the breeding of horses.

M. Warden has sent to the Academy some most interesting
facts concerning the advancement of the Cherokee nation.
Encouraged by the government of the United States, guided
by Anabaptist and Moravian missionaries, instructed by
the example of white men married to Cherokee women, they
have made the most surprising progress during the last twenty
years. Their villages consist of commodious dwellings, seve-
ral of which have from twenty to forty well-cultivated acres
attached to them. They have flour and sawing mills, they
weave their own broad cloth, they export their cattle and
maize, and receive sugar, coffee, and other commodities in re-
turn. One hundred thousand acres of land have been devoted
to the expenses of public education, their schools are fre-
quented by more than 500 children, who all read, write, and
speak English, and one of whom has invented an alphabet of
96 characters, by means of which the pupils correspond among
themselves in their own language. The nation has adopted a
constitution; the present population consists of 15,000 souls,
divided among sixty villages, and their movable property is
estimated at half a million of dollars.

The Partie Mathematique of the Analyse, &c., has been sup-
plied by Baron Fourrier, also secretary to the Academy ; but
as the readers of natural history are not likely to feel interested
in it, I have now but a few words to add, and those on sub-
jects connected with natural philosophy.

M. Ampere has presented two papers to the Academy, con-
taining a theorem for the propagation of light in the middle of
crystals, in forming which he has continued the researches of
M. Fresnel, though he pursues rather a different method of
deduction.

ISh Chevreul has also sent a memoir to the Academy, which
bears the following title : " The Optical Influence which Two
Coloured Objects have upon each other, when seen simulta-
neously, and the Necessity of considering this Influence in
Dyeing, in order to judge of Colours, their Solidity being ab-
stracted." M. Chevreul has established this general fact ; that
two objects differently coloured, and in juxta-position, con-
stantly undergo a modification of colour which arises from
their vicinity. If one is lighter than the other, the first will
become still lighter, and the latter darker. M. Chevreul has,
by experiment, fixed the reciprociil modifications undergone
by the seven primitive colours, and black and white. He has

during the Year 1828. 427

tried to find the law of these modifications, and arrived at this
remarkable result. " When two colours, A and B, are seen
simultaneously, the complementary colour of B is added to A,
and the complementary colour of A is added to B." The
colours appear quite different, and besides, as white appears
more brilliant, and a light colour becomes lighter, when seen
simultaneously with a dark colour, which in such a case itself
acquires intensity, it results, that the contrast takes place in
the colour, and in that which dyers call depth of tone. M.
Chevreul remarks, that in explanations which several natural
philosophers have given of accidental colours, two very differ-
ent cases have not been sufficiently distinguished. The first
is that in which the eye, for instance, having long looked at a
little square of red paper, placed on a white ground, suddenly
moves to a part of the white ground. It then sees a little green
square, which is. the complementary colour of red. We can
very well conceive, with M. S. Scherffer, in this case, how that
part of the retina, on which the image of the red square is
painted, being fatigued with this sensation, ceases to look at
it, and still seeing the white, that part of the retina fatigued
with the red must receive a much stronger impression of the
complementary colour of the red, and thus must se© a green
square. But in a case where M. Chevreul has studied acci-
dental colours, there are two equal zones, contiguous, and dif-
ferently coloured, which are seen simultaneously, and the
complement of one of the colours acts, not on that part of the
retina which sees this colour, but on the part which sees the
other colour. The learned author intends to return to the
study of these phenomena, to the consideration of which he
has been led by accident.

M. Fourrier read a memoir, entitled " Experimental Re-
searches on the Conducting Faculties of Thin Bodies exposed'
to the action of Heat, and a description of a new Thermometer
of Contact."

The literary undertaking of the Baron de Ferussac, which
has now existed for five years, is still continued, and, by beings
in general circulation throughout France, greatly contributes
to the endeavours which are constantly making towards the
perfection of science. The object of this work is to publish
" A Universal Bulletin of Science and Useful Arts;" and
the different subjects contained in it are indicated by the fol-
lowing titles: —

Mathematical, Astronomical, Physical and Chemical
Sciences. Geology and Natural Sciences. Medical Science,
Anatomy, and Physiology. Agriculture and Economy.

F F 2

i£8 Life^ GeniuSy and Personal Habits of Bemch^

Technological and Constructive Science. Geographical
Science. History, Antiquities, and Philology. Military
Sciences. I am. Sir, &c.

S. B0WDI€H.

London^ September, 1829.

Art. II. Some Account of the Life, Genius, and Personal Habits
of the late Thomas Bexmch, the celebrated Artist and Engraver
on Wood, By his Friend John F. M. Dovaston, Esq. A.M., of
Westfelton, near Shrewsbury.

{Continued from p. 319.)

" He — in a general honest thought,

And common good to all, made one of them.

His life was gentle, and the elements

So mixM in him, that Nature might stand up,

And say to all the world — T%w was a man /" Shaksfeare.

Sir,

With pleasure I resume the brief and broken narrative of
my friend Bewick ; yet not without considerable diffidence in
my own power to make it interesting to all ; being well aware
it will be read by many, not feeling my own keen relish for
his productions ; and by many more not having, like me, en-
joyed the blessings of his friendship.

I left myself happily seated in the alehouse, on the 1st of
October, 1823, between my lamented and my living friends,
Bewick and Bowman : and what with the wit of one, and the
science of the other, I paid little attention to the iron tongue
of the neighbouring steeple of St. Nicholas, whether he told
the long and loud " hour o' night's black arch the keystane,"
or the wee bit ane ayont it. The fine old fellow, this jolly
old Cock o' the North, as I facetiously called him, would
persist in seeing us to our hotel, where we renewed our liba-
tions even to "sangs and clatter." Very early in the morning
he kindly came again with his great cudgel to our chambers ;
and removed us to his neat and hospitable residence amid the
fields and gardens above Gateshead, on the opposite bank of
the Tyne. Here we brokefast with his family, consisting then
of his good old dame (who died February 1. 1826, aged 72),
one son, and three daughters. He now conducted us amid
the curiosities of Newcastle, public buildings, pictures, and
libraries; and, what is more to my present sketch, his own
workshops. Here we saw his manner of producing his beau-
tiful art; and his nests of almost numberless drawers, each

Life^ Genius^ arid Personal Habits of Bewick. 4>2^

filled with one layer of finished blocks, with their faces up-
ward, on many of whose maiden lineaments, fresh and sharp
from the graver, the ink-ball had never been pressed. They
are all cut on box-wood, which is procured from abroad of as
large circumference as possible, at a great expense, and is
paid for by weight. This is sawn across, at right angles to
the cylindrical growth of the tree (I mean as a cucumber is
sliced), in pieces, when finished, exactly the thickness of the
height of the metallic types, with which the blocks are after-
wards incorporated in the pressman's Jbrm, or iron frame.
Gne surface of this block is made extremely smooth, on
which is traced in black and white lines, the figure or design ;
the white is then cut out, and the black left. Though this
was the method he took with his pupils, of whom he had
constantly a numerous succession, he had early acquired so
ready a facility himself, that simply with the graver on little,
and often no, outline, he worked the design on the blank
block at once. His tools, many of his own contrivance and
making, were various in sizes and sorts. Some, broad gouges
for wide excavation ; some narrow, for fine white lines ; and
some many-pointed for parallels, which, either straight or
wavy, he cut with rapidity, by catching the first tooth of the
tool in the last stroke, which guided it equidistant with the
former. He spoke with great approbation of the graphic
talents of his late brother John ; and repeatedly said, that, had
he lived, he might have attained to greater eminence than
himself. When they both began, the art was almost lost,
and totally neglected; but has, through his hands and inge-
nuity, been almost, as it were, re-invented, and brought to its
present high pitch of perfection : and many of the most cele-
brated wood-engravers have been his pupils. Here he gave
us his opinion of the old method of cross-hatching, a style
not now used, or even known, and, he said, useless; as every
effect may be produced by parallel lines, broader or narrower,
at greater or less distances; and in the lighter parts, by a little
sinking of the surface of the block. The latter is one of hk
own inventions, and by it a judicious pressman can produce
every gradation of shade from very black to nearly white ;
between which he preferred those of intermediate strength,"
being decidedly against a black impression. He thought the
old engravers effected the cross-hatching, either by covering
the block or metal plate with wax, through which the lines
were cut, and an acid then applied to eat into the surface ; or
by the use of cross or double blocks, requiring two impres-
sions to produce a single figure. Numberless specimens of
this cross-hatching may be found in the great old edition of

F F 3

430 Life, Genius, and Personal Habits of Bewick,

Fox's Book of Martyrs, where it is often widely and wantonly
thrown away, even where not required ; a proof, that it must
have been executed without much art or labour : in honest
old Gerard's valuable Herbal : in that of Parkinson : and in
Felix Valgrise's beautiful folio edition of Matthiolus's Com-
mentaries on Dioscorides, Venice, 1583 : and many other an-
cient books in my collection. Mr. Bewick's own Horse-
traveller in a Storm, where he shows black and white rain, is
a specimen of the use of two blocks. A person acquainted
only with the common method would be at a loss to conceive
how the union of the absolutely opposite styles of engraving,
on copper and wood, could be effected. The black diagonal
lines, particularly those on the foreground, constitute its great
curiosity as a wood-cut. In many of his tail-pieces, he has
given imitations of etching, and cross-hatching; but these are
all worked in the usual manner, the surface of the wood being
picked out, with infinite labour and surprising skill, from be-
tween the lines. He very seldom engraved from any other
copy than nature, having the bird (always alive if possible),
or other subject, before him, and sketching the outline on the
block, filling up the foregrounds, landscapes, and light foliage
of trees, at once with the tool, without being previously pen-
cilled. It was curious to observe his economy of box- wood;
the pieces being circular, he divided them according to the
size of his design, so as to lose little or none ; and should
there be a flaw, or decayed spot, he contrived to bring that
into a part of the drawing that was to be left white, and so
cut out. He said,* blocks, in durability of lines, incalculably out-
lasted engravings on copper, which wear very much in cleaning,
for every impression, with chalk ; but editions of wood-blocks
must be very remote indeed before they show any feebleness.
In early life he had cut a vignette for the Newcastle news-
paper ; and this year it had been calculated that more than
nine hundred thousand impressions had been worked off; yet
is the block still in use, and not perceptibly impaired. A faint
impression therefore, is by no means to be attributed to the
wearing out of the block but to the feebler pull of the press-
man ; and this may be proved by observing that when any one
is remarkably black or light, all that are pulled off that same
form, partake of a similar degree of strength or faintness. I
have now in my library a cop}^, though, I am sorry to say,
spoiled with my having written the margins all over with orni-
thological observations, of the very first edition of the Birds,
in which many of the impressions are far feebler than the
corresponding ones in the very last edition; and in the same
edition the same blocks vary in all shades. Let not collectors.

Life^ Genius^ and Personal Habits of BemcL 431

therefore, yet despair, who have missed becoming purchasers
in the rapid, and now, since the good man's death, more rapid,
sale of his valuable works.

At his table we had the pleasure of dining with several
gentlemen of distinguished literary character, whom he had
most politely invited on our account. After dinner, having
largely enjoyed the full flow of his friends' conversation, and
launched on its tide many a full and sunny sail of his own,
our good host for a moment fell asleep in his elbow-chair ;
during which interval a gentleman narrated the following little
anecdote, which, I find, my venerable friend's modesty has
omitted in his own Memoir. The Duke of Northumberland,
when first he called to see Mr. Bewick's workshops, was not
personally known to my friend ; yet he showed him his birds,
blocks, and drawings, as he did to all, with the greatest libe-
rality and cheerfulness ; but, on discovering the high rank of
his visitor, exclaimed, "I beg pardon. My Lord, I did not
know Your Grace, and was unaware I had the honour of talk-
ing to so great a man." To which the duke good-humouredly
replied, " You are a much greater man than am I, Mr.
Bewick." To which my friend, with his ready wit that never
failed or offended, resumed, " No, My Lord; but were / Duke
of Northumberland perhaps I could be."

Having a considerable part of our tour yet to make in
Yorkshire, and my friend Bowman, on account of his bank,
being somewhat under the control of time, we tore ourselves
from this delightful society on a much earlier day than ac-
corded with our inclinations. On my return, however, to my
peaceful and pleasant groves here at Westfelton, I renewed
my ornithological and other communications to my aged and
honoured friend, and sent him curious birds of the neighbour-
hood and our Welsh border, if not with more attention, with
redoubled ardour : for I had borne away in my satchel many
valuable proofs of his art and his attachment, and in my mind
many impressions that mightily enhanced their value, that
flung around my reflections a brighter halo of happiness,
embodying into dreamy shapes the airy nothingness of my
sylvan hamadryads, and giving them, in the Elysium of my
bosom, a something more than merely poetical habitation.
Our correspondence consequently became far more full and
frequent ; from his part whereof it was my wish to have given
some extracts, but that during this my hasty composition, my
full memory is continually oscillating between the desire of
dilation, and the propriety of compression.

In 1818 he published his first edition of the Fables of Msop
and others. Of the utility and sweetness of fables the uni-

F F 4

432 Zj/^, Genius^ and Personal Habits of BemcJc,

versal world in all ages has been sensible, as his admirable
preface and introduction amply illustrate. My business is with
his " designs on wood," as he modestly calls some of the most
masterly productions of invention, drawing, and execution the
progress of the fine arts has ever displayed. Herein his
figures and animals have their usual life, motion, spirit, and
expression ; their passions are visible, and their very speech
audible. Yet excellent as are the actors, the scenery is nothing
less so. Landscapes, trees, buildings, towered cities, still life,
interior walls and utensils, streets and towns, with all the intri-
cacy and accuracy of perspective, are profusely depicted, with
interminable variety, in the back-ground of these minute en-
gravings ; and, though cut on wood, their excellence absolutely
becomes enhanced by the application of a moderate lens. I
could dilate with rapture on each, nay, on the snatches of
sunny views that are shown through the open doors and win-
dows, did I not feel it an incumbent duty to drop a word or
two on a most important department of this mighty master's
imaginative and executive powers. A life of Bewick, without
a word on his numberless and enrapturing vignettes, would
be the story of Aladdin without his Lamp. He is the very
Autolycus of tail-pieces, which he flings out faster and more
profusely, in ribands of all ramifications, than a fire-eater at a
fair; ay, " he utters them as if he had eaten ballads, and all
men's ears grew to his tunes." Do, reader, whatever be thy
temperament, open any one of his books, and thou wilt touch
a key accordant. Look at the boy-soldiers riding on grave-
stones, with rush-caps and swords of seg: the two hindermost
blackguard ragamuffins, tattered and bare-legged ; the next
a great awkward booby, son of some scoundrel attorney ; and
the captain, smallest of all, well clothed, and in good shoes
and stockings, he is the squire's son, whose hall is seen be-
hind ; a pretty emblem of incipient aristocracy. Twenty years
hence that little fellow will blow his twopenny trumpet among
the Tories, and cry " the church in danger;" the next rascal
will bamboozle him out of his money, and the two villains
behind poach in his covers. If thou lovest a good ghost
story, as I do marvellously, look at the terrified thief, mis-
taking the stumps and grey ranpikes, in the gloomy moonshine,
for devils and horned goblins, with white wicker ribs and
lanky skeleton arms. Wouldst thou know the cause of his
terror ? look into the back-ground: he has just passed a gallows.
I have heard a great painter say that Hogarth might feel proud
of this piece. — Ha ! that is the murine phaeton, drawn by four
cocked-tailed mice : Sir Whisker and Lady Mouselllna with
her parasol, of Mouse- Cottage; their mouse footman, and the

Life^ Genius, and Personal Habits of BewicL 433

mouse arms emblazoned with mouse supporters on the panel,
in all the boast of mouse heraldry : they are going to make a
call on Lord Frittertime and Madam Twaddle. — See how
that heartless and coarse-minded tanner grins a brutal laugh
at the poor dog to whose tail the naughty boys have tied a
tinned kettle : you may hear that it has just had a bouncing
bang, — Those five methodists, listening to the call of their
master, scarce occupy two inches ; yet look at their faces, male
and female — special grace and election ! ! ! — and were it not
for the horns and claws of the preacher, by his clerical attitude
you might take him for a very parson. — Cast your eye on the
gipsies and their bear ; are not thief and harlot marked in their
physiognomies ? That first fellow's coat is too big for him, a
world too wide ; he has stolen it. — Look with luxury on the
light and buoyant cutter, dancing on the dashing waves, in
pursuit of the heavy smuggler, straining and creaking in the
breeze, laboriously making off in the misty moonlight. — The
lame man has left his crutch behind, having mounted the back
of the blind, who has let go his dog : hasty attachments imagine
friendship eternal. — That poor spaniel bitch has been howl-
ing all night, and has just broken her string, and found her
drowned puppies : look at her sudden pause and sorrow ! —
Ay, friend Bewick, many a lobster handles a pencil, and
piddles on a set palette. — Do stop your ears at opening to
the two fiddlers, with their jangling, discordant scrapings. —
I truly pity their hearts who hear not the howling of that
scalded dog who has overturned the pot ; and the cackling of
that hen who has just been laying, — Oh ! what a feast of
diverting and instructive amusement for an idle summer's day,
or a long winter's night ! What a rich and exhaustless suc-
cession of grotesque figures, funny groups, comical scenes,
pithy inscriptions, delicious landscapes, village farmsteads,
rocky caverns, tufts of fern, river glens and cascades, quiet
pools and sedgy knolls, lovely trees and woody dells, towns
and towers, ivied ruins, sea-side views, with sermons in every
stone ; dreary snows, stormy waves, rolling ships, and scream-
ing sea-fowl ; quiet fountains, forest glades, and woodland soli-
tudes ; fairy haunts,

" Right seldom seen, •

Lovely, lonesome, cool, .nnd green."

The commonest capacity might read a history in every
one of these rich and romantic tale-pieces, and a mind of
wit and fancy may open to each, and feel arise from it
the simultaneous power of delivering a bright or blooming
narrative of melancholy or mirth. Thus the copious, capa-
cious, and bountiful mind of Bewick, not merely content to

434 Ijife^ Genius^ and Personal Habits of Becmck.

fling around each bird and figure the most beautiful and appro-
priate scenery, but revelling in exuberance of imagination,
drops, on almost every leaf, some gem of genius, " to point a
moral or adorn a tale." These fling on our sunny memories
gleams and glances of nature, that impulsively shed on the
feelings a delicate mental and bosom emotion, hidicating the
presence and influence (and probably constituting much) of
that fine but indefinable power called genius; whence ema-
nating on congenial dispositions, like rich tones on accordant
vibrations, awaken, in successive combination, all the melodious
harmonies of the heart.

" Now the storm roars around me; row the bloom

Of earth, her greenery, and her pleasantries,

Are shrunk once more into their wint'ry tomb.

And the fire sparkles, and the lamp supplies

Its evening gleam — where is my paradise?

With White my spirit finds beloved employ,

A sage who cared not how the world would prize

His sylvan strolls, so naught might him annoy,
Roaming through Selborne's woods, in loneliness and joy.

With Bewick's comic burin next enchanted,
I pass, through groups grotesque, to lonely places.
And find how there his curious spirit panted
For Nature, ev'n in her minutest traces j
Clasping unto our sympathy's embraces
All creatures of her solitary reign j
Dwellers of sedgy pools, heaths, parks, and chaces.
The mountain cliff, and desolated fane,
And all the drear wild charm of northern isle and main."

In his Memoir he has detailed his sentiments on the purity
of representation and free government, in a manner worthy
the pen of a Bacon or Locke; a history of the art of wood-
engraving ; and observations on the progress of his own mind.
Though some of his less important opinions may, to persons
who knew him not, appear but as whimsical fancies, they
are the levities of a great and benevolent soul, that, like the
brilliant air-bubbles of a deep clear fountain, rise playfully to
the surface, without sullying its purity. The style is plain and
simple, but sinewy and nervous, marking his character as much
as his manners and even his dress, and is strongly tinctured,
as was his conversation, with broad Northumbrian and Scot-
tish provincialisms, which, particularly when he read it aloud,
strengthened the efficiency. The narrative is replete with
anecdote, especially in the earlier parts, wittily recorded, and
morally applied, and very much reminded me of that of the
excellent Benjamin Franklin ; indeed, to that good and great
man, both in his religious and political sentiments, he appeared
to bear a nearer resemblance than to any other. He was

Ascent and Measurement of Wha-ra-rai, 435

indefatigable and intrepid in his search after truth, dauntless
and strenuous in the declaration of his matured sentiments,
however opposite to received opinions, and fearless of any
pains or penalties which the avowal of them might bring upon
him from persecuting bigots. But the objects nearest to his
heart were, to render the works of the Creator familiar to
youth, by dressing them in their most alluring form, and
thereby leading to the knowledge and admiration of their
great Author, and to the principles of what he believed to be
true religion, and what all believe to be those of sound mo-
rality. These were his constant aim and study, and to these
he considered every thing else as subordinate. The success
of his labours in this field he acknowledged, but was uncon-
scious of it till made aware by the' voluntary and unsought
admiration of the world. When the admired preface to his
Fables first appeared, letters from eminent men poured in upon
him, particularly from the University of Cambridge, and one
from the Bishop of Gloucester ; numerous letters of thanks
for the benefits he conferred on the rising generation, from
men of talent and literary eminence, who were total strangers
to him, except through his works, but who admired his mo-
desty, his genius, his benevolence, his wit, his ingenuity, and
his genuine religious principles.

John F. M. Dovaston.
Westfelto?!, near Skrewsbwy,
Sept. 3. 1829.

{To be continued.)

Art. III. Some Account of an Ascent and Barometrical Measure^
ment of Wha-ra-rai, a Mountain in the Island of Oiuhyhee ; ex-
tracted from the MS. Journal of Archibald Menzies, Esq. F.L.S,
Communicated by Mr. Menzies.

{Concluded from Vol. I. p. 208.)

The day being clear and serene when we arrived upon the
top of the mountain, the extensive and interesting prospect
that rushed on our sight on every side may more easily be
conceived than described. The whole western side of Owhy-'
bee lay underneath us, with its indented shore, bays, villages,
plantations, and forests, depicted, as it were, like a map upon
the vast sheet of extended ocean before us ; whilst fleecy
clouds, hovering at a distance, appeared to the eye like art
immense extent of frozen country, with towering mountains,
and deep valleys of the softest shades, every moment varying

43^ Ascent and Measurement of W/ia-ra-rai,

their aerial shapes and situations, and presenting the most
beautiful prospects of picturesque scenery, over which the eye
could eagerly wander without weariness, and continue impart-
ing to the mind new-felt pleasures. In the afternoon, these
clouds drew in towards the island, and bedewed it with re-
freshing showers.

On the other side, the inland country presented extensive
valleys, and two immense mountains capped with perpetual
snow; of these, Mowna-kaah is the most rugged and peaked;
it bore E. N. E. of us. Whilst Mowna-roa appeared like an
immense flat cone, and bore S. E. by E., seemingly at no very
great distance ; but, perhaps, the rarefaction of the air at this
height made it appear to us much nearer than it really was.

We kindled a fire ; and, after partaking of some refresh-
ment, the natives took us to see a small crater of a volcano on
the north side of the peak, a little below the summit. It
formed a rugged hole of 7 or 8 yards in diameter, and appa-
rently of immense depth, as a stone thrown into it was heard
striking against the sides, in its descent, for some time after ;
and it did not appear to have been long extinguished, as the
ashes and cinders round the mouth of it were quite fresh.

We found that the natives regard volcanoes as the habit-
ations of evil spirits, who, when any-wise enraged, throw up
fire and hot stones ; and, to appease their wrath, they conceive
it necessary to make some offering to these demons, by throw-
ing cloth, hogs, and vegetables into the volcano; and, on
particular occasions, as we understood, they even sacrifice
their criminals, by disposing of them in the same manner. In
this visit to the crater, we observed that none of the natives
came empty-handed, but brought pieces of cloth, taro, yams,
or plantains, which they threw down at the mouth of the
crater, among the rotten remains of former offerings ; and they
earnestly requested us to leave something too, which we did,
such as nails, beads, and pieces of tape, that greatly pleased
them, and they seemed to think such offerings would be highly
acceptable to these demons.

We remained this and the following day on the top of the
mountain, traversing the peak in various directions, every one
pursuing his own amusement, and making the summit our
place of rendezvous, where we met at meal-times, and reposed
at night in small caverns, which the natives soon converted
into neat and comfortable habitations, by strewing the bottom of
them with long grass, overlaid with mats, and by thatching the
exposed parts with plantain-leaves, which had been brought up
from the lower parts of the woods for that purpose. So, what
with the pure air, the temperate climate, and novelty of our

a Mountain in the Island of Owhyhee. 437

situation, every one allowed that two days more pleasantly
spent they seldom experienced.

In my rambles I collected every plant I met with, either in
flower, fruit, or seed, which, I was sorry to find, did not
amount to a very numerous catalogue, on account of the dor-
mant state of vegetation in these upper regions, at this season
of the year; but, from the variety I saw of small plants and
low shrubs, in appearance quite new to me, I consider this
peak as a very interesting tract for a botanist to explore in the
summer months, when, I have no doubt, every cleft and rug-
ged steep will be adorned with flowers innumerable.

Amongst the plants in flower at this time was the Sajphora
tetraptera, which did not exceed the size of a small shrub,
though, lower down the mountain, and particularly on some of
the other islands, it grows to a pretty large tree, from the
wood of which, the natives informed me, they make their
spears ; and, when finely polished, it almost equals in hard-
ness and density of grain the most beautiful mahogany. The
Dodon<^^« visc6sa grew here very plentifully, and seemed to
thrive equally as well as down at the sea-side, where it is not
uncommon. I also found here a small shrubby geranium, a
new species, and, I believe, the only one of that genus which
has hitherto been found in any of the islands of the Pacific
Ocean.

At both noons I observed the barometer on the top of the
mountain ; the first day it stood at 22 in. 40 pts., and the
second day at 22 in. 44 pts. So, if we take the mean of these
two observations, 22 in. 42 pts., from SO in. 16 pts., the mean
of two corresponding observations on board the ship in Kara-
kakooa Bay, the remainder, 7 in, 74 pts., will show the amount
of fall of the mercury in our ascent up the mountain, which
gives its height 8457 ft. above the level of the sea.

The thermometer, observed at the same time, was ^B^ on
the first, and 64° on the second, day ; and, at seven, on both
mornings, it was at 45° : but the first evening, at sunset, it was
as low as 38°; and the second evening it stood at 41°; which
showed, in these instances, that the evenings were colder than
the mornings, just the very reverse of what we experienced in
the woody region of the mountain.

We set out from the top of the mountain on the morning of
the 21st, accompanied by upwards of sixty of the natives, and
descended by a very indifferent route, on the south-east side,
into the valley between it and Mowna-roa, as it was our inten-
tion to return to Karakakooa by a different direction, in order
to explore the country, and vary our scene of observations.
This inland side of the mountain was but thinly wooded, with

4; 38 Ascent and Measurement of Wha-ra-rai^

scattered bushes here and there, and much more rugged and
steep than the other side ; for, in some parts of our descent,
we travelled over fields of loose and picked lava, so dreary and
rugged, that we conceived ourselves very fortunate, with all
our care and caution, in getting over them without any acci-
dent or broken bones. Our shoes were so torn and cut to
pieces by the lava, that we could scarcely drag them along ;
and the natives were severely crippled, notwithstanding they
had matted for themselves a kind of sandals to defend their
feet, and some of us were obliged to have recourse to the same
expedient. Our cocoa-nuts and water being expended before
we left the top of the mountain, we suffered greatly from want
of these articles in our descent, in the sultry heat of mid-day,
till we reached near the bottom of the valley, when our guides
took us a good deal out of the way, to a spring, where we
quenched our thirst and filled our calibashes ; and, about four
in the afternoon, we arrived in the valley, much fatigued,
when we were conducted by the chief to a deep cavern, into
which we descended, and found very snug quarters, in small
cells, for the night. In the centre there happened to be a
small moral, or tabooed spot, round which a variety of fruits
and vegetables, which had been offered to the Eatooa, lay in a
decayed and rotten state, and the natives now added a fresh
supply.

On looking up the side of Mowna-roa from this station, the
lower edge of the snow upon it did not appear to be far off;
and, as the ascent seemed to be smooth and easy, we proposed
to make an attempt to reach it. But the chief and the rest of
the natives were very much against it, declaring that, if we
should chance to succeed in overcoming the difficulties, the
cold on the mountain was so intense as to kill us ; as we, how-
ever, perceived no apparent obstruction in the ascent, we were
resolved to try it; and, for this purpose, we examined our
stock of provisions, which we found rather low, but, by reducing
the number of our party, and adopting a frugal management,
there was a sufficient quantity to serve a moderate party for two
days, in which time, we conceived, our object might be accom-
plished. Having, therefore, chosen about twenty of the party,
with the chief to accompany us, the rest were sent down to the
plantations, with orders for some of them to return with a sup-
ply of provisions.

Our reduced party having loaded themselves with water
and the remainder of our provisions, set out with us on the
morning of the twenty-second very reluctantly ; and after
pursuing a path to the eastward for about two or three miles,
we struck off to the right and began our ascent, as we still

a Mountain in the Island of Owhyhee, 439

perceived no apparent difficulty before us : but we soon found
our mistake, and the representations of the natives verified;
for as vfQ endeavoured to advance, we found the side of the
mountain here and there covered with low scrubby wood and
ferns, so very dense in many places, that we were obliged to
make a path step by step for the whole party, which rendered
our progress slow and fatiguing; and, in some places, the
ground was covered over with a fragile crust of lava, which
broke under our feet, and we now and then stumbled into
chinks and crevices, which were really very dangerous ; whilst,
in other places, it sounded so hollow underneath us, that we
were every moment apprehensive of its breaking in, and swal-
lowing us up, in some hideous fissure or cavern. We, how-
ever, persevered under these discouraging circumstances till
about three in the afternoon, when perceiving that we had
scarcely diminished our apparent distance from the snow, and
being quite harassed and exhausted with fatigue, without any
prospect of soon overcoming our difficulties, it was agreed
upon to relinquish our pursuit, to the no small satisfaction of
the natives ; and, after taking some refreshment, we returned
again to the cavern, where we arrived in the dusk of the
evening. The night was very stormy, with high winds and
cold showers of sleet; and, next morning, we observed that
Mowna-roa was covered much lower down with fresh snow,
so that, had we succeeded in our attempt to ascend it, we
should probably have suffered severely from the inclemency of
the weather, exposed to these rigorous blasts, without any
shelter, on the bleak side of this huge mountain.

The centre of the island near which we were now stationed,
between the three great mountains, together with the exten-
sive valleys which separate them, forms a flat dreary tract of
inland country of considerable extent, and nearly the same
elevation, and which is apparently incapable of any kind of
cultivation ; the trees and brushwood, with which it is here and
there thinly covered, indicate the poverty of the soil by their
stinted and scrubby appearance; but as the volcanic dregs
with which it has been strewed from the adjacent mountains,
are continually mouldering away by the busy and constant
operations of time, this tract may be said to be in a state of
slow and progressive improvement, and future ages will pro-
bably find it clothed with a rich carpet of verdure.

To give some idea of the elevation and temperature of this
inland region, I observed the barometer on the morning of the
23d at the mouth of our cavern, where the mercury stood at
25 in. JSpts., and the thermometer was at the same time at
57°. I had also observed both, at the same place, on the

440 Ascent and Measurement of Wha'^a-rai^

evening of our first arrival, when the former stood at 25 in.
1 5 pts., and the latter at 56° ; so if we take the mean of these
two observations with the barometer, the result will give our
height at this station 5085 feet above the level of the sea.

After making a scanty breakfast out of the last portion of
our provisions, we turned our faces homeward by a path which
forms a communication, by this valley, from the eastern extre-
mity of the island ; and the great cavern which we had just
quitted, may be considered as one of the inns upon this road,
for the shelter and accommodation of travellers. The only
inhabitants we saw in this desert valley were some wild geese,
of a size somewhat between our common goose and duck,
they were very handsome, and had some distant resemblance,
in colour, to the Canadian goose, but a distinct species ; we
also saw some crows, which, together with the preceding, we
believe, are peculiar to those islands, and commonly inhabit
the upper regions.

After travelling about three or four miles, we entered the
woods at the mouth of the valley, and began our descent in a
winding direction: but as the girdle of forest is not here so
broad as on the sides of the mountains, and the paths being
tolerably clear, we soon got through it, as the cravings of both
hunger and thirst made us now anxious to get down to the
plantations; for the region above the forest is but scantily
supplied with water, and many of the springs, where the natives
expected to find a supply, were at this time dried up, which
often occasioned disappointment. About the middle of the
wood, however, we met with our trusty and faithful adherents,
who had been sent down the day before to the plantations,
and were now making all the haste they could to our relief,
with heavy loads of provisions. This supply came very sea-
sonably, and we instantly sat down to lighten their burdens by
partaking of a hearty refreshment; after which we conti-
nued our descent, though now with less hurry ; and, when we
came out of the wood, we found the lower skirts of it, as
in other places, adorned with rich plantations of plantains
and bananas. Thence we pursued our course in a slanting
direction to the southward, till we came to a village amongst
the upper plantations, where we took up our residence for
the night, about nine or ten miles to the north-east of Kara-
kakooa bay, and where we were surrounded by most exuberant
fields of the esculent vegetables of these islands, which, for
industry of cultivation and agricultural arrangements, could
scarcely be exceeded in any country, and it was pleasant to
observe such labour here rewarded by productive crops.

a Mountain in the Island of OwhyJiee. 441

We found we had taken up our quarters in a plantation
belonging to our friend Teamotoo; and as that chief had
kindly requested, we now made the man he sent with us our
purveyor, who readily supplied us with every thing we wanted.

At eight next morning the thermometer was 56°, and the
barometer stood at 28 in., which will give our height at this sta-
tion 1892 feet above the level of the sea. After breakfast, we
were entertained with the performance of a young girl who
danced in a small area before our door. She was assisted by
her father, who beat time on a small drum, and joined her now
and then in singing, in reciting, and sometimes in a brisk dia-
logue ; whilst she (encumbered as she was with a grotesque
dress) traversed the area with such measured paces and fasci-
nating movements, with such graceful attitudes, such ability
and animation of acting, so punctually timed, and so varied by
slow and quick transitions, as would have done credit to the
most expert attitudinarian, and far exceeded any thing of the
kind we had before seen at these islands.

We were given to understand that this actress and her
father belonged to a party who strolled about the country
from village to village, and gained their livelihood by enter-
taining the inhabitants with their performances; and if we
might judge of her merit from the specimen we had just seen
of her acting, we think her possessed of natural powers to
entertain, even in a more refined society.

After presenting this young girl with suitable presents of
beads, looking-glasses, scissors, tape, and other articles, we
descended through the plantations, collecting whatever flowers
and seeds their interesting banks produced, that we had not
before met with in our journey. Our adherents who had been
distinguished on the top of Wha-ra-rai, now wore their little
badges round their arms, and were the envied objects of every
group of the natives we passed. In the evening, we arrived
at a small village on the sea-side, a few miles to the northward
of Karakakooa, where we stopped for the night, and where I
observed the barometer at sun-set close to high-water mark,
when die mercury stood at SOan. 12 pts., and the thermometer
was at '74°. This height of the mercury in the barometer
coincides so nearly with what it was when we began our
ascent, that the observations made with it may be considered
as sufficiently accurate to give a general idea of our height at
the different stations, especially as no material changes of
weather happened during our excursion that were likely to
affect it.

Next morning, we travelled over a dreary tract of rugged
lava and very uneven ground along shore, till we came to the

Vol. II.— -No. 10. g g

442 Contributions towards the Natural History

village of Kow-rowa, where we hired canoes" for the whole
party, and arrived on board the Discovery about noon, when
all our attendants were rewarded for their services. The king
was so pleased with the very favourable report which we were
able to make of their conduct, that he himself fixed upon the
quantity of articles to be given to them, as the price of their
labour and good behaviour, and with his own hand laid out a
small piece of iron, fashioned like a chisel, a parcel of small
nails, a bunch of beads, two knives, a file, a pair of scissors, a
looking-glass, and a few yards of tape, which were handed to
each of them ; but I observed that all of them gave up the
last article to the king, and were so well satisfied with what
they got, that they all expressed a wish of setting out with us
again the next day. The chief, Harou, was presented with
the same articles, but in greater proportions, together with
the addition of an axe, and as much red cloth as would make
him a cloak ; the last, however, we understood he was not
suffered long to keep, but was obliged to deliver it up to the
king.

Art. IV. Contributions tcwards the Natural History of the
Dodo {Didus ineptus Lin.|, {Jig. 107.) a Bird ivhich appears to
have become extinct towards the End of the Seventeenth or Begin'
ning of the Eighteenth Century. By John V. Thompson, Esq.
F.L.S.

Some philosophers are not disposed to admit of the de-
struction of any of the species of animals of contemporaneous
creation with man. If the remains of animals found embedded
and lapidified in the solid substance of rocks, in every explored
region of the globe, differ in toto from the existing races,
those, however, which have become extinct during the latest
revolutions of our planet, resemble so closely what are now
spread over its surface, as to be considered in the relation of
species and varieties. Hence we cannot but admit that the
successive destruction and utter annihilation of certain animals
form a part of the scheme of creative wisdom. What the
conditions may have been, under which any particular species
of these lost animals perished, must be matter of mere con-
jecture, but, with regard to the subject of the present paper
(the dodo), those conditions are self-evident. Imagine a bird
of the gallinaceous (gallus, cock, or pheasant) tribe, consider-
ably larger than a turkey, and consequently adapted for food,
totally incapable of flying, and so unwieldy as to be easily run
down, and it must be quite obvious that such a bird could not

of the Dodo {Didus ineptus Lin.). 443

long continue to exist in any country to which mankind ex-
tended their dominion. This will account for its being found
only in those islands of the Indian Ocean which, on their first dis-
covery by Europeans, were uninhabited, or difficult of access to
the nearest people. The group which is situated to the east-
ward of Madagascar, consisting of Bourbon, Mauritius, and
Rodrigue, were almost the only islands of this description met
with by the early circumnavigators of the Cape ; and it is
there that we find the last traces of this very remarkable bird,
which disappeared, of course, from Bourbon and the Mauri-
tius Jirst, on account of their being more visited and finally
colonised by the French ; and lastly from Rodrigue, an island
extremely difficult of access, and without any bay or safe anchor-

age for shipping. Having resided some years amongst those
islands, inclusive of Madagascar, and being curious to find
whether any testimony could be obtained on the spot, as to
the existence of the dodo in any of the islands of this or the
neighbouring archipelagoes, I may venture to say, that no
traces of any kind could be found, no more than of the truth of
the beautiful tale ofPaulafid Virginia, although a very general
belief prevailed as to both the one and the other. I there dis-
covered, however, a copy of the scarce and curious voyage of
Leguat, who, and his companions, appear to have been the
first residents of Rodrigue ; and, although some allowances
appear to be necessary on account of the period in which he
wrote, for descriptions and drawings apparently from memory,

GG 2

444 Contributions t&wards the Natural History

and a somewhat traveller-like stretch of imagination to enhance
the value of his book, yet his evidence must be deemed con-
clusive, strengthened as it is by the collateral testimony of
other voyagers, and by all the facts and statements brought
forward by Mr. Duncan, in a paper upon this subject, pub-
lished in the Zoological Journal for January, 1828, p. 554.,
from all which it appears, that a hirdoi corresponding size and
character did actually exist, of which the only remains are a
hill and foot in the Ashmolean Museum at
Oxford, and 2ifoot [fig. 108.) in the British
Museum, all of which I had the satisfaction
of examining on my return from the Mauri-
tius in 1816.

Mr. Duncan, in the paper alluded to, proves
that a specimen of this bird existed in Tra-
descant's museum at Lambeth [Mus. Trade-
scant., No. 4., Dodar; Ashmolean Catalogue,
1684, No. 29., Gdllus galli?idceus peregrmus
Cusii% where it was seen by Ray and Wil-
loughby. This museum being subsequently
removed to Oxford by Dr. Ashmole, we find
the specimen there in 1700, by the testimony of Hyde, in his
Religion is Fete?^um Persarum, Sfc. Hist.; and in a catalogue of
the museum, drawn up since 1755, it is stated that " the Num-
bers from 5. to 46. (No. 29. being that of the dodo) being de-
cayed, were ordered to be destroyed at a meeting of the visitors,
Jan. 8. 1755. It is, therefore, almost certain that the bill and
Jbot still to be seen in that depository, were those of the above
specimen. To verify the painting which is also to be seen in
the British Museum, Mr. Duncan appears to have taken all
the pains possible, and states it to have been drawn from a
living bird, sent from the Mauritius to Holland, the Dutch
being the first colonists of that island ; to dissipate all doubts
as to its accuracy, however, it should be collated with a de-
scription taken lirom the Ashmolean specimen, should such be
found to exist.

The following testimonies, set down in chronological order,
may be added to those brought forward by Mr. Duncan, viz. ;

1497. — Vasco de Gama, after doubling the Cape of Good
Hope, found a bay at 60 leagues, Angra de San Blaz, near to
an island, where they saw a number of birds which the Por-
tuguese call Solitarios, of the form of geese, but with wings
similar to those of a bat.

1499. — On their return they touched again at St. Blaz,
where they took a number of solitarios.

of the Dodo (Dldus inej)tus Lin.). 445

1614. — In the voyage of Castleton, he touched at Bourbon
(Mascarenhas of the Portuguese), at that time " still uninha-
bited, although occasionally visited by the early voyagers.
Amongst the birds, he particularises a kind of bird of the size
of a goose, very fat, with short wings, which do not permit
them to fly. They have since (he says) been called the giant,
and the Isle of France (Mauritius) also produces plenty of
them. It is "isohite^ and naturally so tame as to allow itself to
be taken by the hand ; or, at least, they were so little afraid at
the sight of the sailors, it was easy for them to kill great num-
bers with sticks and stones."

1691. — We come now to Leguat, who, with seven others,
was left upon Rodrigue, with a view to colonisation. May
1691 ; and we may judge of the impression which this singular
bird must have made upon the mind of the narrator, when we
perceive that he has introduced figures of it into his frontis-
piece, his general chart of the island, and his plan of their
little colony ; in the latter twelve, and in the former sixteen,
individuals being distributed over their respective surfaces.

The Island of Rodrigue, or Diego Ruys, although seen by
several of the earlier voyagers, after the discovery of the route
to India by the Cape, does not appear to have been visited
anterior to the voyage of Leguat, from its unapproachable
appearance, and the apparent continuity of the extensive ma-
dreporetic reef which everywhere surrounds it, and upon which
the sea continually breaks, at a very considerable distance
from the shore ; the same causes still operate in repelling the
tide of colonisation, as, at the time of our late conquest of the
group to which it belongs, a single French family constituted
the whole of its population. Leguat and his companions,
then, may be presumed to have seen it in its virgin state ; a
circumstance which makes his narration doubly interesting,
and shows not only the abundance of its animal productions,
but the paradisiacal peace and amity which appeared to reign
amongst them, and the little dread they seemed to possess at
the presence of their destined destroyer. Of the dodo, the
subject of this paper, he says: —

" Of all the birds which inhabit this island, the most re-
markable is that which has been called Solitaire (the solitary),
because they are rarely seen in flocks, although there is abun-
dance of them.

" The males have generally a greyish or brown plumage,
the feet of the turkey-cock, as also the beak, but a little more
hooked. They have hardly any tail, and their posterior,
covered with feathers, is rounded like the croup of a horse.
They stand higher than the turkey-cock, and have a straight

G G 3

446 Contributions towards the Natural History

neck, a little longer in proportion than it is in that bird when
it raises its head. The eye is black and lively, and the head
without any crest or tuft. They do not fly, their wings being
too short to support the weight of their bodies ; they only use
them in beating their sides, and in whirling round ; when they
wish to call one another, they make, with rapidity, twenty or
thirty rounds in the same direction, during the space of four
or five minutes ; the movement of their wings then makes a
noise which approaches exceedingly that of a kestrel (Cre-
cerelle), and which is heard at more than 200 paces distant.
The bone of the false pinion is enlarged at its extremity, and
forms, under the feathers, a little round mass like a musket-
bullet ; this and their beak form the principal defence of this
bird. It is extremely difficult to catch them in the woods; but
as a man runs swifter than they, in the more open spots it is
not very difficult to take them ; sometimes they may even be
approached very easily. From the month of March until
September, they are extremely fat, and of most excellent fla-
vour, especially when young. The males may be found up to
the weight of 4^ lb. ; Herbert even says 50 lb.

" The female is of admirable beauty. Some are of a blond,
others of a brown, colour ; I mean by blond the colour of
flaxen hair. They have a kind of band, like the bandeau of
widows, above the beak, which is of a tan colour. One feather
does not pass another over all their body, because they take
great care to adjust and polish them with their beak. The
feathers which accompany the thighs are rounded into a shell-
like form, and, as they are very dense at this place, produce a
very agreeable effect. They have two elevations over the
crop, of a somewhat whiter plumage than the rest, and which
resemble wonderfully the fine breast of a woman. They walk
with so much stateliness and grace combined, that it is impos-
sible not to admire and love them ; so much so, that their
appearance has often saved their life.

" Although these birds approach, at times, very familiarly
when they are not chased, they are incapable of being tamed ;
as soon as caught, they drop tears, without crying, and refuse
obstinately all kind of nourishment, until at last they die.
There is always found in their gizzard (as well as in that of
the males) a brown stone, the size of a hen's egg ; it is slightly
tuberculated (raboteuse), flat on one side, and rounded on the
other, very heavy and very hard. We imagined that this
stone was born with them, because, however young they might
be, they always had it, and never more than one; and besides
this circumstance, the canal which passes from the crop to the
gizzard, is by one half too small to give passage to such a

of the Dodo {Didus ineptus Lin.). 44<7

mass. We used them, in preference to any other stone, to
sharpen our knives.

" When these birds set about building their nests, they
choose a clear spot, and raise it a foot and a half off the
ground, upon a heap of leaves of the palm tree, which they
collect together for the purpose. They only lay one egg^ which
is very much larger than that of a goose. The male and female
sit by turns, and it does not hatch until after a period of seven
weeks. During the whole period of incubation, or that they
are rearing their young one, which is not capable of providing
for itself until after several months, they will not suffer any
bird of their own kind to approach within 200 paces of their
nest ; and what is very singular is, that the male never chases
away the females ; only, when he perceives one, he makes, in
whirling, his ordinary noise, to call his companion, which im-
mediately comes and gives chase to the stranger, and which
she does not quit until driven without their limits. The female
does the same, and allows the males to be driven off by her
mate. This is a circumstance that we so often witnessed, that
I speak of it with certainty. These combats last sometimes
for a long time, because the stranger only turns off, without
going in a straight line from the nest ; nevertheless, the others
never quit until they have chased them away." *

We have, in this last relation of Leguat, who resided in the
midst of them for a considerable period, a detailed, although
rude, description, and a natural history of the dodo, probably
the only one that was ever penned under such favourable cir-
cumstances. No doubt this first colony, in so small an island,
considerably reduced the number of the dodo; but when they
finally disappeared does not appear to have been any where
recorded. From the nature and habits of the bird, it is clear
that the duration of the species was wholly incompatible with
the dominion of man : had it been capable of domestication, or
had it possessed the swiftness of foot of the ostrich, or the
aquatic habits of the penguin, to compensate its want of the
power of flying, they might still have shared some of the pos-
sessions originally assigned to the race ; or even like the tur-
key-cock and goose, have administered to the wants of man-
kind, in every temperate region of the globe ; under existing
circumstances, however, they appear to have been what may
be truly termed a paradisiacal bird, and predestined to disap-
pear at their proper time. As they are the only vertebrated
animals which we can make certain of having lost since the last
creation, they furnish an interesting subject of meditation to

* Voyage de Francois Leguat, Gentilhomme, Bressan, 1708,
G G 4

4>48 Some Account of the Wheat Fly.

the philosophic naturalist. If we seek to find out what Hnk
in the chain of nature has been broken by the loss of this
species, what others have lost their check, and what others
necessarily followed the loss of that animal which alone con-
tributed to their support, I think we may conclude that, the
first being foreseen by the Omniscient Creator, at least no
injury will be sustained by the rest of the creation ; that man,
its destroyer, was probably intended to supplant it, as a check ;
and that the only other animals which its destruction drew
with it, were the intestinal worms and Pediculi peculiar to the
species. *

W. Thompson, F.L.S.
Cork, August 10. 1828.

Art. V. Some Account of the Wheat Fly. By Mr. Patrick
Shirreff, Farmer, Muiigoswells, East Lothian.

Sir,

Although whatever affects agriculture should be interest-
ing to all, yet, when submitting to the notice of the public^
through the medium of the Magazine of Natural History, a
few observations on the habits of an insect (Cecidomyia tritACv)
which has been the cause of extensive injury to the wheat crops
in this neighbourhood for years past, it becomes me to apolo-
gise for entering upon a science with which I am so little con-
versant, and to express a hope that anxiety to advance the
interests of my profession, which induces me to address you,
will in some measure palliate the triteness of my remarks.

Wheat flies were first observed here this season, on the
evening of the 21st of June; and, from the vast number then
seen, it is probable a few of them may have been in existence
some days previous. Their eggs were visible on the 23d, the
larva on the 30th of that month, and the pupa on the 29th of
July. The flies were observed depositing eggs on the 28th,
and finally disappeared on the 30th of July : thus having existed
throughout a period of 39 days.

The flies were observed to frequent the wheat plant, only
including the thick-rooted couch-grass ( Ti'iticum repens), a

* Buffon, Latham, and Gmelin have three species under the genus Didus,
while we find it so difficult to establish the existence of one; the evidence
upon which the first two of these species have been founded, viz. D. inep-
tus and D. solitarius, is contained in the foregoing paper, and in that of Mr.
Duncan, before quoted, while the third species, D. nazarenus, rests on that
of Cauche, whose veracity has been doubted even by his contemporaries.
Besides it is not likely that the three islands of the Mauritius group pos-
sessed each a distinct type of so singular and unique a bird

Some Account of the Wheat Fly, 44.9

few days after their appearance. They generally reposed on
the lower part of the culms during the day, and became active
about sunset, except when the wind was high. I have, how-
ever, seen them flying about in cloudy mornings, till seven
o'clock; and, upon one occasion, witnessed them depositing
their eggs, in a shaded situation, at two in the afternoon. I
could not determine when the flies retired to rest for the night,
as they continued active while light enabled me to distinguish
objects, and I doubt if they are in the habit of doing so. Their
movements appear to be influenced by the rays of the sun, of
which they seem impatient,* being active when the sun is below
or near to the horizon ; they frequent the most umbrageous
part of the crop, and shun that which is deficient in foliage.

The flies almost invariably preferred the ears emerging
from the vagina to those farther advanced, for depositing eggs
on ; and as one side only of the ear is exposed when the plant
is in this stage of growth, the other side generally remained
uninjured. The fly deserted the fields as the crop advanced
towards maturity, and were found longest on the spring-sown
portion of the crop. It seemed to feed on the gum ad-
hering to the newly emerged ears ; and as there is a great
diversity in the time of sowing wheat in this neighbourhood,
and consequently of the ears escaping from the vagina, I attri-
bute the unusual length of time it has existed this season, to
the supply of food thus gradually furnished.

The fly deposits its eggs with much intensity, and may easily
be taken when so employed. Upon one occasion, I numbered
thirty-five flies on a single ear ; and, after carrying it a distance
of a quarter of a mile, six of them still continued to deposit
eggs. At another time, I shook a fly, then laying, between the
face and glass of my watch, where it deposited several eggs,
although invariably interrupted by the revolution of the mo-
ment hand.

The ovidepositor of the fly is of considerable length, perhaps
four times that of the body, and so minute, that it appears
doubtful whether the eggs pass along the interior or exterior
surface. The depositor can be extended and withdrawn at
pleasure, and is seldom visible unless the fly is depositing eggs.
The figure of the fly given by Mr. Kirby (Vol.1, fig. 91.), and
which has been copied into different periodicals and news-
papers, represents it flying, with the depositor extended, and
is so unlike the fly when seen, that agriculturists are unable to
recognise the fly from the figure.

The hue of the fly is orange ; the wings transparent, and of
changing colour according to the light in which they are viewed.
On several occasions I observed a fly, differing from others in

450 Some Account of the Wheat Fly,

appearance, being of deeper orange, and thicker in the body.
One of these flies was secured on the 27th of July ; it proved on
examination a male, which has not been described before, and
the hues of its wings were remarkably brilliant.

The eggs of the fly are generally found in clusters, varying
in number from two to ten, upon the inner chaff', in which the
furrowed side of the grain is embedded, and are also occasion-
ally to be seen in the interior parts of the flower and chaffl
The eggs are deposited by means of a long slender tube (see
fig. 91. Vol. I.), and fixed with a glutinous substance possessed
by the fly. A thread of glutinous matter frequently connects
a cluster of eggs with the style, where the larvae seem to sub-
sist on the pollen ; in one instance, fifteen eggs were numbered
on such a thread, several of which were suspended on the por-
tion extending between the chaff" and the style. The fly not
only seems thus to provide a conveyance for the larvae to the
style, but also food for their support. The anthers are pre-
vented from leaving the style, in consequence of being gummed
down by the glutinous matter of the fly, and the pollen thereby
detained for the use of the larvae, which otherwise would, in
part, be carried out of the glumes by the expansion of the
filaments.* In the exertion of gumming down the anthers,
many of the flies are entangled in the vascules of the corolla,
and thus become a sacrifice to their maternal affection.

The larvae are produced from the eggs in the course of
eight or ten days : they are at first perfectly transparent, and
assume a yellow colour in a few days afterwards. They travel
not fi'om one floret to another, and forty-seven have been
numbered in one. Occasionally there are found in the same
floret larvae and a grain, which is generally shrivelled, as if
deprived of nourishment; and although the pollen may fur-
nish the larvae with food in the first instance, they soon crowd
around the lower part of the germen, and there, in all pro-
bability, subsist on the matter destined to have formed the
grain.

The larvae are preyed on by a host of enemies, ^the most
numerous and active of which is an ichneumon fly (figured in
the London Linnean Transactions). Upon presenting four
larvae to an ichneumon, it soon stung, or, according to Mr.
Kirby, deposited an egg in each of their bodies, and stung
one of them a second time. The maggot writhed in seeming
agony, and straggled on to my thumb nail, where it was again
stung three times by the same fly ; and, in a second struggle,

* By the expansion of the filaments, the anthers of the wheat plant are
forced out of the glumes, and known to farmers by the term bloom.

Some Accomit of the Wheat Fly, 451

both fell to the ground. The earwig also destroys the larvae,
three of which I successively presented to a earwig, which de-
voured them immediately, and fell from the wheat ear before
I could offer a farther supply.

The abode of the pupa during winter is a subject of doubt ;
and with a view of determining this point, a quantity of wheat
ears was selected which had been ravaged by the larvae last
summer, and kept in a round stack through the winter. A
portion of the ears was kept in the vinery of Mr. John Ferme,
Haddington, and the remainder in Mungoswells dining-
room ; but in neither case was a fly obtained. On the 24-th of
June, when the flies were extremely numerous, and perhaps
when the pupa was assuming the aurelia state, I examined, in
the evening, a grass field which had carried a wheat crop,
injured by the larvae in the preceding year, and found the fly
abounding ; on a grass field adjoining, which had been pas-
ture the preceding year, flies were not found; on a potato
field, which had been wheat the previous year, many flies were
seen ; on one which had been oats, flies were not visible ; and
on naked fallow, which had been wheat the previous year,
there were many flies ; on that which had been oats, there
were not flies : in short, wherever wheat had grown the pre-
ceding year, flies were found, and seldom met with in other
situations. From such evidence it may be concluded, the
pupae remain generally in the soil during winter ; but probably
they occasionally pass the winter in wheat ears. Being un-
able to devise means for checking the devastations of the wheat
fly, and conceiving those that have hitherto been recommended
unavailing for the purpose, I am still not without hope that
some of your correspondents may be able to supply the desi-
deratum.

Patrick Shirreff,
Mungoswells^ East Lothiariy
Aug, 1. 1829.

, 452

PART 11.

REVIEWS.

Art. I. Catalogue of Works on Natural History ^ lately puUished,
tuith some Notice of those considered the most interesting to British
Naturalists,

Britain.

Wilson's Illustrations of Zoology, &c. No. VII. (See Vol. I. p. 52.)— This
number is inferior in execution and in interest to any of its predecessors. It
contains, as usual, four plates, the first of which represents the Ternate
kingfisher (Tanysiptera dea Vigors), an inhabitant of the Island of Ternate,
one of the Moluccas. The bird is drawn standing on a rock, ready and
prepared for flight ; but the feet are awkwardly and unnaturally placed, and
the shorter feathers of the tail have a stiff undulating margin, very like an
edging of blue ribbon fitted on by the cunning hand of a little sempstress.
The second and third plates are dedicated to the male and female of the
pheasant-tailed grouse (Tetrao Urophasianus), a fine species, " plentiful
throughout the barren arid plains of the River Colombia, as well as in the
interior of North California. These plates are beautifully engraved and
coloured, but the artist has displayed little skill in the position of the birds,
and in the management of light and shade. They are not living but dead
birds, well stuffed, and set up. In the fourth plate we have delineated the
Jasius butterfly (Nymphalis Jasius). The beauty of the insect is great, but,
considered as a whole, the plate is unworthy of the work. There is much
waste ground in it which might have been profitably occupied. Neither the
caterpillar nor chrysalis are delineated ; and it would surely have added
much to the value, and even to the beauty, of the picture, to have given
these, though they had been copies. Further, the grass on which one of the
figures is placed, is altogether imaginary ! This will never do : we ought
to have had the plant on which the insect feeds in its first stage of exist-
ence, or the flower which, when a winged being, it loves to hover on, and
sip the honied nectar. Such a picture might have been worthy of Mr.
Wilson's pencil, and worthy of the elegant and pleasing description which
accompanies it. We cannot but remark, likewise, that two of these plates
are litihographic j and when the comparative expense of engraving on stone
and copper is considered, perhaps the public have a right to coniplain when
this difference is not compensated for, either by an additional plate, or by
additional letter-press. Far from us is any wish to depreciate the work ;
for we, in fact, feel anxious for, and interested in, its success ; but that suc-
cess, we feel confident, will be best secured by making every successive num-
ber at least equal to the first specimens. — N,

Donovan, E., Esq. F.L.S. W.S. &c.. Author of the Natural History of Bri-
tish Birds, and of various other approved Works on Natural History ;
The Natural History of the Nests and Eggs of British Birds. The De-
scriptions, which are calculated for the Naturalist as well as general
Observer, are intended to comprehend every useful Trait of Information

Catalogue of Works on Natural History, 453

respecting the Nidification, Eggs, and Incubation of the numerous Spe-
cies of the Feathered Tribes that inhabit the British Isles ; and are*,
throughout, accompanied by a Series of elegantly coloured Plates, com-
prehending Figures of the Eggs of every Species, with their most singular
Varieties, so far as they can be correctly ascertained. The whole exclu-
sively executed from Nature, and disposed according to their respective
Genera. London. In oblong 4to Nos. 5s. Qd. Nos. I. to V. have ap-
peared.

An attentive perusal of the above titlepage will enable every one, connected
in any way with country life, to form an idea of the utility of the work to all
" whose minds delight to participate in the most rational of its amusements,
the study of creation." Such a work has long been much wanted, and we
hope this veteran author and most worthy and ingenious man will receive
such encouragement as may enable him to proceed with it at a more rapid
rate than he has hitherto done. In the prospectus it is stated that the work
may be completed in 24 numbers, but that it certainly shall not exceed 36.
We recommend expedition both to the author and to intended purchasers,
and we hope the latter will be numerous.

Bennett^ s Fishes of Cei/lon. In 4to Nos., monthly (Vol.1, p. 162. and
273.) — No. III. of this splendid work has just appeared, containing five
coloured engravings of the natural size of the specimens. The number of
colours, the variety of their shades, and the singularity of the forms in which
these colours are laid on by nature, are altogether extraordinary, and
far exceed in singularity and beauty any thing to be met with in the Eu-
ropean seas. The plates are admirably coloured. No book can be better
adapted for the drawing-room of a wealthy amateur.

CiirtiSy Johiy F.L.S., Author of British Entomology: A Guide to an Arrange-
ment of British Insects ; being a Catalogue of all the named Species
hitherto discovered in Great Britain and Ireland. London. Pamph.
8vo. Is.

The objects of this useful little work are thus enumerated in the pre-
face ; — " First, It will enable entomologists to arrange their cabinets sys-
tematically. Secondly, They may mark off their own insects so as to know
instantly whether they have a species or not, by which means their deside-
rata will be shown. Thirdly, It will form labels for cabinets. Fourthly, It
will be a systematic index to The British Entomology. Fifthly, It will be a
catalogue of the author's cabinet, those without a * being desiderata. The
catalogue when completed, it is expected, will not contain more than
seven or eight sheets ; and, toTacilitate their appearance, every sheet will
be published as soon as it is printed."

Stephens, James Francis, F.L.S., Author o^ Illustrations of British Entomo-
logy, A Systematic Catalogue of British Insects, &c. : Nomenclature of
British Insects ; being a compendious List of such Insects as are con-
tained in the Systematic Catalogue. 45. 6d. boards ; or printed on one
side, for the purpose of labelling cabinets, 5s.

Hooker, Professor, and Dr. Greville : Fcones i^'ilicum, &c. — The seventh
fasciculus of this work is just published. In these seven fasciculi are figured
and described 141 species, of which 52 are new species. The following are
the genera already illustrated, with the number of species : —

Acrostichum, 14 species; ^diantum, 5 sp. ; Aneimia, 1 sp.j Angiopteris,
1 sp. ; Antrophyum, 2 sp. ; Aspldium, 6 sp. ; Jsplenium, 10 sp. ; Botrjchium,
2sp.; Ceterach, 1 sp.; Cheilanthes, 10 sp.; Cryptogramma, 1 sp.; Cyathea,

4f54f Literary Notices,

2 sp. ; Niphobolusj 3 sp. ; Ophioglossum, 5 sp. ; Parkem, 1 sp. ; Pleop^ltis,
1 sp. ; Polybotr^'a, 1 sp. ; Polypodium, 7 sp. ; Ptferis, 6 sp. ,• Schizae'a, 4 sp. ;
Taenitis, 2 sp.,* TodaeX 1 sp. ; Trichomanes, 1-5 sp. ; Woodsia, 1 sp.
Conversations on Vegetable Physiology^ comprehending the Elements of Bo»-
tany, with their application to Agriculture. By the Author of Conver-
sations on Chemistry y Natural Philosophy ^ Sec. &c. London. 2 vols, small 8vo.
This is a delightful book, written by a lady of high talent, on one of the
most fascinating subjects which can engage the female pen. We can hardly
conceive any young person reading it without imbibing a taste for the study
of plants. In the preface we are informed, that " the facts and opinions '*
are almost exclusively taken from the lectures of a distinguished professor,
of Geneva [Decandolle], on whose mode of treating the subject the follow-
ing just eulogium is passed in the introductory conversation : —

" Mrs. B. M. Decandolle, so far from confining himself to the classifi-
cation of plants, examines the vegetable kingdom in its most comprehensive
and philosophic point of view. In describing the structure, he investigates
the habits and properties of plants ; and shows, not only how wonderfully
they have been formed to answer the purposes of their own multiplication
and preservation, but how admirably they answer the higher purpose which
nature has assigned them, of ministering to the welfare of a superior order
of beings — the animal creation ; and more especially to that of man. He
turns his attention particularly to point out the means by which the science
of botany can promote that with which it is most intimately and import-
antly connected — agriculture. He prepares the soil and sows the seed for
the husbandman ; he extracts the healing juices and the salutary poisons for
the physician ; he prepares materials for the weaver, colours for the dyer ;
in a word, as he proceeds, there is scarcely an art on which he does not
confer some benefit, either by pointing out a new truth, or warning against
an ancient error. Thus, throughout his course, his principal aim is to pro-
mote, by his vast stock of knowledge, the welfare of his fellow-creatures.

" Emily. Treated in this point of view, botany cannot, I think, fail to
interest us.

" Mrs. B. It is rather the physiology of botany which I propose teach-
ing you ; and I shall merely give you such an insight into classification as is
necessary to enable you to understand the structure and character of plants."
We wish we knew what to say, in order to introduce this book into every
family, either living in the country or having any prospect of ever walking
in fields or gardens. We particularly recommend it to mothers and go-
vernesses ; and we think it might be usefully introduced as a girl's school-
book in country schools, and as a prize-book.

Art. II. Literary Notices,

A Fossil Flora of Great Britain, or Figures and Descriptions of the Vege-
table Remains found in a Fossil State in this Country, by John Lindley,
F.R.S., Professor of Botany in the University of London, and Wm. Hut-
ton, F.G.S. &c., is announced.

" The great end of the projected work will be to collect good materials
for the use of science, rather than to indulge in speculations, which daily
experience often shows to be delusive. At the same time, the important
object of determining the analogies (when any exist) between the Flora of
the ancient and the modern worlds, will be never lost sight of."

The work will be published in quarterly numbers, 8vo, 10 pis. 6*., by
subscription. The Geological Society, and a number of our first geologists,
have subscribed ; and, we have no doubt, a work having such an important
object in view will obtain the high patronage it merits.

455

PART III.
COLLECTANEA.

Art. I. General Subject,

The Circular System extended to Events and to the Creation of Organised
Beings. — The Stoics (who were ignorant of the power which electricity
possesses of giving life, as it were, to the four elements of matter) resolve
air, earth, fire, and water into each other; and as magnetism is said to have
the faculty of suspending gravitation, so they imagined (as nature delights
in circles and ellipses) that there existed a quality which had the power of
suspending the progress of events ; and which, after a certain era, caused
them to revert into their respective original channels : as water resolves
into vapour by heat, and vapour resolves into water by cold. So that every
accident and event was supposed to be bound perpetually to recur; the
same number and description of plants, insects, birds, and animals again to
ornament and adorn the earth ; and the same beings, feeling their prior
passions, again to exercise the same virtues and vices, and to be liable to
the same calamities and disorders to which they were subject in their state
of antecedence. {Buckets Beauties of Nature.)

Dissection by Insects. — Mr. Carpenter having had many specimens of in-
sects destroyed by the T^rmes pulsatorium, it occurred to him that their
destructive powers might be turned to account, in making some delicate
dissections for the microscope, and accordingly he placed a few of them in a
pillbox, with the heads of three dead flies. On looking into the box some
time after, to see how they had proceeded in their anatomical operations,
he found they had completely cleared the interior of some of the eyes from
all the blood-vessels, leaving the lenses in the corner most beautifully trans-
parent ; thus evidencing how useful they might be made in exceedingly fine
dissections. {GiWs Tech. Rep.)

Bounties of Winter. — Sir, In my walks at this season of the year, when
there has been little but snow and bare branches to look at, I have been
frequently greeted by the fine glowing leaves of the oak, " tenacious of the
stem,'* which show, amid the dark objects around them, like flames of fire;
and this has put me upon thinking, why it is that the young trees retain
their leaves so much longer than the older ones. I cannot answer this
question to myself satisfactorily ; perhaps some of your readers will answer
it for me. That the old trees keep their lower leaves to the last, may very
probably be owing to their being less exposed to the elements, but the
younger are many of them golden to the very crown, though in situations
not a whit more sheltered than their aged brethren. Talking of bare stems
and branches, by the by, how very much people neglect the beauties of
winter ! What infinite grace there is in the leafless birch 1 what majesty in
the oak ! what rough, strong, mossy wealth in the walnut tree ! It is very
interesting to study their characters in this state, when you may discern the
real disposition of a tree as clearly as if it had drunk wine ; in which, they
say, there is truth. I hope, however, it is not cdnfined to wine ; for, truly,
I remain. Sir, &c. — E. K. Feb. 7. 1829.

Grew's Theory of Colours in Plants. — Grew, whose work on vegetable
anatomy is well known, was a close observer of nature; and in noticing the

456 Zoology,

Melissa officinalis, or common balm, he says, it is observable that its green
leaves, which yield a muscadine red to water, give a pure and perfect
green to spirit of wine, which no other plant that he had tried would yield.
He infused both the leaves and flowers of plants in various menstruums, for
the purpose of discovering the true combination and attraction of the con-
stituents of their colouring matter. He observed that oil received a green
from plants by infusion, but not a perfect blue, neither would spirit of wine ;
but water received all colours except a perfect green.

The theory of Grew was built on the supposition, that there exists a set
of vessels, or, as he terms them, lymphaeducts, that abound in a compound
of sulphur and acid, which is favourable to the production of blues, reds,
and purples ; whilst another set, which he terms air-vessels, contain a sub-
alkaline salt, that mixes with the essential oil of the vegetable, and pro-
duces a green colour. The predominance of the lymphaeducts, charged
with their own compound in various proportions, or in various combina-
tions with the air-vessels, gives, he argues, all the beautiful variety of
colours exhibited in the vegetable creation.

The production of the different colours in vegetables by the predomi-
nance of acids or alkalies, we have found to be prettily shown by the follow-
ing experiment : —

Make an infusion, by pouring hot water on the dried petals of red roses
(JBosa centifolia) usually kept by druggists ; it will have but little colour till
a small quantity of liquor potassae be added, when the infusion will become
perfectly green ; add sulphuric acid, and it will become red ; and the colour
may be alternately changed by the predominance of the acid or alkali. If
the infusion be made of alcohol in lieu of water, it will at first be colour-
less, but the result will be the same. {Maund's Botanic Garden^ vol. ij.
part i. No. 146.)

Art. II. Zoology.

A South American Variety or Species of the Genus Yibmo. — If the
education of the first animal, man, be a subject suited to a Magazine of Natu-
ral History, surely occasional notices of any new species or varieties of that
extensive genus Homo, would well comport with the design and execution
of this work. Mr. Deville exhibited, a short time since, some skulls of a
South American tribe of the human race, of which drawings would be de-
sirable. It is said that this race is, or is supposed to be, extinct ; but what-
ever tends to elucidate the natural history of ourselves, must be preemi-
nently useful towards the completion of our knowledge, and the correction
of our judgment. — J. R.

A Spotted Child. — There is now exhibiting in a travelling caravan, a fine
healthy boy between two and three years old, who was born at Rochester,
Kent, of healthy English parents. This child is in several parts of the
body covered with considerable patches of brown hair of close texture,
and soft and silky to the touch. The patches, in fact, are nothing more, so
far as I could perceive by a cursory examination, than very large hairy moles
or birth-marks, uncommon when occurring so large as in this instance, but
otherwise by no means uncommon. Birth-marks, it may be observed, are
sometimes dangerous as forming the beginnings of cancer, &c., but this does
not occur, perhaps, so frequently with the hairy as with the livid sorts. —
J.R.

Inferior Bextenty of the Left Hand. — M. Le Comte refers the inferior
power of the left arm to the {position of the foetus during the last months
of gestation, the left side being usually pressed against the bones of the

Zoology, 4: 51

pelvis, and consequently obstructing the circulation. This effect is far-
ther increased by nurses carrying children on their right arm ; and by
the care taken to teach children not to use their left hands. {Journal de
Physiologic Exp.)

^ Wolves and Foxes in Scotland. — In my antiquarian reading I have met
with the following singular notice of Scottish wolves in BcllendcrCs Trans-
lation of Boelius, edit. Edin. 1541 : — " The wolffis are right noisome to
tame beastial in all parts of Scotland, except one part thereof named Glen-
morris, in which the tame beastial gets little damage of wild beastial, espe-
cially of tods [foxes]; for each house nurses a young tod certain days, and
mengis [mixes] the flesh thereof after it be slain with such meat [food] as
they give to their fowls or other small beasts, and so many as eats of this
meat are preserved two months after from any damage of tods; for tods
will eat no flesh that gusts of their own kind." — J. Rennic.

Black Sheep, — According to Giraldus Cambrensis (who, though a re-
tailer of fables, may be perhaps credited in this), the Irish in his time
w^re chiefly clothed in black garments, because their sheep, from which
the wool was furnished, were black. (Vide Topograph.^ and also Col-
lectan. de Reb. Hibern., xi.) When this is compared with what Southey
tells us, in his Letters from Spain, namely, that in the north of the Penin-
sula, the sheep are almost all of a black colour ; we may, perhaps, justly
conclude, that the black Irish sheep, mentioned by old Giraldus, had been
originally imported from Spain at the period, it may be, of the Milesian
emigration. Those who are extensively acquainted with Ireland may be
able to say whether this breed of black sheep is now propagated there. —
J.R.

Hands of the Whale. — The breast fins of the whale, instead of being
composed of straight spines like those of fishes, conceal bones and muscle
formed very like those of the fore legs of land animals; but so enveloped in
dense skin, that the fingers have no separate motion, though the hand (if
it may be called so) is flat, very pliant, large and strong, enabling the whale
to sustain the young closely compressed to its body, as was remarked by
Aristotle. The gradation of the hand, as it appears in apes, &c., may be
traced in the otter, seal, walrus, raanati, and dugong, into the whale.
{Dr. Harwoody Led.)

^ The King-fisher. — In the little work entitled Ornithologia, by Mr. Jen-
nings, I find two statements respecting the common king-fisher (^Icedo
Fspida),_which require modification. He says that it is " rarely, if ever,
found near the habitations of man." (p. 172.) On the contrary, I am in
the habit of seeing king-fishers very often on the banks of a brook, which
runs past my garden, not a hundred yards from the house in which I write
this paragraph. A nest was found with young, last summer, on the bank
of the same brook, and within gun-shot of a whole row of houses. Mr.
Jennings farther states that he saw a king-fisher on the Ravensbourne, in
September 1827, insinuating thereby that the bird is rare; but the brook
just alluded to j's a branch of the Ravensbourne, on which they are far
from uncommon. — J. R.

The King-fisher^ Alcedo Tspida ( fig. 3. Vol. I. p. 25.) — About ten years
ago, when living near St. Anstell, a small town in the west of Cornwall, ]
was told that a man in the neighbourhood had caught two curious birds, and
that no one knew what they were ; I accordingly, with all the eagerness of
a boy and a naturalist, went to the man's house, and there saw two little
birds sittiiig up like the auk (A lea), rather than standing, on the floor of a
small cage. They looked very melancholy, and sfared about them in a very
vacant manner. I quickly perceived that they were young king-fishers just
able to fly. In reply to my enquiries the man told me that he had put a
call bullfinch (Loxia Pyrrhula) in a cage with limed twigs on a hedge
near the river. This river is a rocky stream which flows at the bottom of

Vol. II.— No. 10. hh

45^ Zoology,

the town, in winter it is sometimes very much swollen, but in the summer
almost dry. On visiting the cage, he found a strange bird caught, which he
carried home and placed the cage as before ; in a few minutes he found, to
his great surprise, another bird like the former entangled. He put them
together in the cage in which I saw them, and fed them with worms, bread
crumbs, and hempseed ; they lived only a few days, and were then thrown
away. The poor little birds, by a mistake of instinct^ were probably attracted
to the cage by the call or even the colours of the bullfinch, which, in some
degree (the piping note especially), resembled that of their parent. What
renders it more remarkable is, that the king-fisher is a bird very rarely, if
ever, found in those parts. — J. Lakes. Liskeard Vicarage^ Cornwall,
Dec. 10. 1828.

Sivallows remaining in this Country durijig the Winter. — If a fact which I
observed will be of any service to confirm the hypothesis, not assumed, but
rather revived, by your correspondent, the Rev. W. T. Bree, that some kinds
of swallows remain dormant during the winter in this country, it is at your
service. Walking about eight o'clock on the morning of the 15th of No-
vember, at Richmond, in Yorkshire, I was surprised to see the common
swallow (iTiriindo rustica) flitting about near the church in one direction
and another with their usual alacrity in summer; the main body of swallows
had taken their departure in the early part of October ; the morning was
misty, but genial and warmer than usual at that time of the year. It was
my intention to have communicated this, previously to the present time, in
the form of an essay on the arrival and departure of the ^irundines, along
with some other observations and facts which I have collated, but your very
learned correspondent, the Rev. W. T. Bree, has, I see, anticipated me.
Yours, — L. E. O. of Beadford

Preservation of small Birds. — Remove the viscera, brain, eyes, and
tongue with a hooked wire; fill all the cavities with antiseptic paste, or
cotton saturated with it ; bind the bill and wings with thread, hang it up
by the legs, pour from one to two ounces of ardent spirits into the vent, and
leave it to dry in an airy place. The paste is made with 8 parts of white
arsenic, 4 parts of Spanish, and 1 part of soft soap, and 3 parts of camphor,
with a few drops of alcohol. — Id.

New Species of British Snake. — Mr. T. M. Simmons has discovered,
near Dumfries, in Scotland, a species of snake, which seems to be new to
our naturalists, and which has been appropriately called Coluber dumfri-
si^nsis {^g. 109.) It differs from the common snake (Coluber iV^atrix), in

having no ridged line on the middle of its dorsal scales, which are extremely
simple and smooth. The number of scales under the tail is about 80, and
the plates on the belly 162. The only specimen hitherto found measured
5 in., was of a pale colour, with pairs of reddish-brown stripes from side to
side over the back, somewhat zig-zag, with intervening spots on the sides

Zoology. 459

It comes nearest in character to a species of snake, Coluber austriacus
lAnn.^ which is common in France and Germany, and which has smooth
dorsal scales, like the Dunifries snake. The latter also, if the figure pub-
lished by Sowerby be correct, has large scales on the head, which proves that
it cannot be the young of the common viper, which, however, has also
ridged scales. — J.R.

Hearing of Fish. — Independent of the story of Arion and the dolphin,
we have the evidence both of modern experiment and dissection, to demon-
strate the fact of the hearing of fish. The following verses, by the Bishop
of Dunkeld, furnish a curious specimen of reasoning in opposition to this
undoubted fact : —

" Violent din the air brekis and dears, i
Sine great motion of the water steirs, 2 —
The water steirit, fishes for feardness flies.
But out of doubt no fish in water hears.
For, as we see, right few of them have ears ;
And eke, forsooth, but ^ if wise clerkis lies.
There is no air in with waters nor seas.
But ^ whilk 5 no thing might hear, as wise men lears, ^
Like as but * light there is nothing that sees."

Gawin DouglaSy Palice of Honour, i. 28.

Spiders live and grow without Food — Out of fifty spiders produced on
the last day of August, and which were kept entirely without food, three
lived to the 8th of February following, and even visibly increased in bulk.
Was it from the effluvia arising from the dead bodies of their companions
that they lived so long ? Other spiders were kept in glass vessels without
food from the 15th of July till the end of January. During that time they
cast their skins more than once, as if they had been well fed. {Rediy Gene-
rat. Insect. y p. 160.)

I enclosed a packet of spiders* eggs in a pasteboard box, which were
soon hatched but afterwards forgotten and neglected for about two months,
when they were all found dead but two, which had cast their skins, and in-
creased in size, but, though I fed them with flies and gnats, they soon died. —
J.R.

Cimex. — This extensive genus comprehends upwards of eight hundred
species inhabiting plants as various as the shapes and hues of the insects
themselves, some of which possess colours brilliant beyond description. In
their larva state they are very active, and only differ from the perfect insect
in wanting wings. They overrun the plants, grow, and change into chry-
salides or pupae, without appearing to undergo any material alteration. They
have, indeed, only the rudiments of wings, which their last transformation
unfolds, and the insect is then perfect. In their first two stages they are
unable to propagate their species. In the perfect state, the fecundated fe-
male lays a great number of eggs, which are often found placed side by side
upon plants. Muny of these, when viewed through a magnifier, present
singular varieties of conformation. Some are crowned with a row of small
hairs, others have a circular fillet, and most of them have a cap, which the
larva pushes off" when it forces open the egg. Released froni their prison,
they overrun the plant, and feed on its juices. {Carpenter in GiWs Tech.
and Micr. Rep.)

Swarming of Bees. — The ingenious President of the Horticultural So-
ciety, Mr. T. A. Knight, has been led from repeated observation to infer, that,
in the swarming of bees, not a single labourer emigrates without previously

1 Injures. 2 Stirs, s Unless. ■* Without. & Which, « Learns.

H H 2

460

Zoology*

inspecting its proposed future habitation, as well as the temporary stations
of rest where their numbers collect soon after swarming. {Philosophical
Magazine.)

The Deat}i*s-head Hawk Moth. {fig. 110). — As an instance of animals
following the progress of cultivation, it may be mentioned that the Death's-

head hawk moth (Acherontia A''tropo^) has been found near Catrine, Ayr-
shire : the specimen was sent to the Hunterian Museum, Glasgow. It is
very doubful whether this insect, whose larvae feed on the jasmine, the po-
tato, and other exotics, was produced in Britain before their introduction.

— J.R.

The Vapourer Moth {B67nbi/x antlqua). — Sir, The practice of " sembling,"
as it is called, i. e. exposing a female moth for the purpose of attracting the
males, is well known to collectors of insects, and has often been adopted
with success. In addition to the remarkable instances of the wonderful
instinct by which the males are guided, recorded Vol. I. p. 332. of your
Magazine, I beg to offer you the following, though by no means so interesting
an example of the fact as those mentioned by your correspondent, J. H.
Davies, Esq. A friend of mine once
reared from the caterpillar a female
specimen of j?6mbyx antiqua (Vapourer
Moth) {fig. 1 1 l.a), which sex of the insect,
it is well known, is incapable of flying, pos-
sessing, as it does, only the bare rudiments
of wings. Wishing to try the experiment
of sembling, and thinking this apterous fe-
male a peculiarly fit subject for the pur-
pose, he placed it on a card, and carried
It into the garden, where a male moth {b)
immediately came and settled on the card
as he held it in his hand. The helpless female accidentally fell to the ground
among herbage, so thick, that any attempt to recover the specimen would
have been almost hopeless, had not the male led to the discovery by flutter-
ing directly to the spot. A circumstance which serves to heighten the suc-
cess of this experiment is, that the male thus introduced to my friend's no-
tice, was the only specimen he saw during the autumn ; jBombyx antiqua,
though a common insect in most seasons, being in others scarcely to be seen.

— W. T. Bree. Alledey Rectory, Nov. 15. 1828.

Death-Watches. — These little creatures, whose portentous click once
made stout hearts quail, and still inflicts no small terror on many an an-

Zoology.

461

cient dame, even in these days of enlightenment, are thus described by
Mr. Carpenter : — This singular noise proceeds from two different insects.
One of these, the Anobium tessellatum,is coleopterous, of a dark colour, and
about a quarter of an inch in length. It is chiefly in the latter end of spring it
commences its noise, which may be considered analogous to the call of birds.
This is caused by beating on hard substances, with the shield or fore-part of
its head. The general number of successive distinct strokes is from seven
to nine, or eleven. These are given in pretty quick succession, and are re-
peated at uncertain intervals. In old houses, where the insects are nume-
rous, they may be heard, if the weather be warm, almost every hour in the
day. In beating, the insect raises itself upon its hinder legs, and, with the
body somewhat inclined, beats its head, with great force and agility, against
the place on which it stands. This insect, which is the real death-watch of
the vulgar, must not be confounded with a minuter insect, not much unlike
a louse, which makes a ticking noise like a watch ; but, instead of beating
at intervals, it continues its noise for a considerable length of time without
intermission. This latter insect, the Termes pulsatorium Linn., belongs to
a very different tribe (Neuroptera). It is usually found in old wood, decayed
furniture, museums, and neglected books. The female lays her eggs, which
are exceedingly small, in dry dusty places, where they are likely to meet
with least disturbance. They are generally hatched about the beginning of
March, a little sooner or later, according to the weather. After leaving
the eggs, the insects are so small as scarcely to be discerned without the use
of a glass. They remain in this larva state about two months, somewhat
resembling in appearance the mites in cheese; after which they undergo
their change into the perfect insect. They feed on dead flies and other in-
sects J and often, from their numbers and voracity, very much deface cabi-
nets of natural history. They subsist on various other substances, and may
often be observed carefully hunting for nutritious particles amongst the dust
in which they are found, turning it over with their heads, and searching
about somewhat in the manner of swine. Many live through the winter,
buried deep in the dust, to avoid the frost. (Giirs Technological' and

Mici'oscopical JReposilofy.)

British Pearls {Mpa marfs^ari.ifera Linn., U^nio elongata Lam. {Jig- 112.)

— In the old and curious translation of Hector Boetius, by Bellenden (edit.

Edinb. 1541), the

following notice

occurs of British

pearls : — " In the

horse mussillis are

generit perlis.

Thir mussillis air-
lie in the morning

(when the lift is

cleir and temper-
ate), openis thair

mouthis a little

aboue the watter,

and maist gredelie

swellis the dew of

heaven, and eftir the measure of the dew thay swellie, they conceive and

bredis the perle."

Suetonius gives, as one reason for Caesar's expedition into Britain, the

search for pearls, which Pliny {Hist. Nat., ix. 35.) seems to confirm, saymg

that Julius Csesar gave a breastplate covered with British pearls to Venus

Genetrix, and hung it in her temple at Rome. Pliny adds, that they were

small and ill-coloured ; and Tacitus says, " subfusca ac liventia. ' "^'^^

H H 3

The

46^ Botany,

venerable Bede, again, in his Ecclesiastical History i says,' the British pearls
were excellent, and of all colours, — reddish, pale, violet, and green, which
account is confirmed by Origen. Not many years ago, a patent was granted
to fish for pearls in the river Jut, in Cumberland {Gibson in CamderCs Bri-
tannia), but it does not appear to have been much acted upon. — J. Rennie.

Art. hi. Botany,

Changes made in the Karnes of Plants. — I cannot help producing a few
instances, from amongst a very large number, where the alterations appear
to me to be decided improvements. I say nothing respecting generic terras,
but have confined myself to the trivial or specific name : — Fritillaria rae-
leagris of Linnaeus, Mr. Salisbury proposes to change to F. tessellata ; iiTip-
pophae rhamnoides to H. littoralis ; and Campanula Trachelium to C. uyvl-
cifolia, all certainly changes for the better. Who will not prefer, if he thinks
for a moment, Veronica fontinalis and bibarbata (one expressing the place
of growth, and the other alluding to the situation of the hairs on the stem)
to the barbarously sounding words Beccahunga and ChameeMrys, to which
few are able to attach any meaning ? And is not Gerard's name of the
common Scurvy-Grass, Cochlearia rotundifolia, expressive of the form of the
leaf, better than C officinalis ? I think it highly objectionable to continue
the name officinalis to so many plants merely because they have been used
medicinally, and shall be glad to see some one take up the subject, and
" reform it altogether." (See Gray's Nat. Arrangement of Brit. Plants.) —
D. S, Bungay.

Preservation of Trees in Winter. — In iron founderies, such as the
foundery for cannon at Munich, it is customary to stir the melted metal
with a branch of green oak ; and notwithstanding the great heat of the
metal, the green wood is not affected deeper than about the twentieth
part of an inch. This striking fact is explained from the non-conducting
power of the sap j and upon the same principle it is that the bodies and
branches of trees, not having the covering of snow which the roots have,
are protected from the operation of cold by their sap increasing in spissi-
tude, and, of course, in non-conducting capacity, as the winter approaches.
On similar principles we may account for the preservation of various kinds
of fruits. — J. R,

Sap of the Rose Tree. — From a plant of i26sa rubiflora, at Hammersmith^
with a stem 3^ ft. high and 2i in. in diameter, when deprived of its
branches and the head sawed off, 29th of July, 51 ounces of sap flowed in
about a week, which, together with loss by evaporation, probably exceeded
three pints. Chemical analysis gave the following ingredients : —
Oxalate of lime - - - 2*9 grains

Acetate of lime - « - 1'097

Acetate of potass - - 0*7

- Gum and extractive - - 2*1

Sugar ? soluble in alcohol = - o* l
Loss - . - - 0*355

7*25

R. Adams in Brande's Journ.
With respect to what Mr. Adams chooses to call extractive, I may be
permitted to remark that the term ought to be exploded altogether from
vegetable chemistry, since it does not, like the terms gum, acid, or alkali.

Botany,

463

convey any distinct meaning, nor apply to a definite class of substances,
The recent brilliant discoveries in vegetable chemistry ought to put an end
to this vague phraseology. — J. R.

Influence of Soil on Roots. — " If a cucumber," says Sir James Smith in
his Lectures, of which MS. notes are now before me, " is planted; and
after the branches shoot there is placed a stone in the way of either of
them, the branch will turn off and avoid it without touching the stone, but
describing a circle around it. When it has passed the stone, however, it
will go on in a straight line." Sir James explains this by the well-known
law of plants always approaching the light, the cucumber turning round ta
get out of the shadow of the stone.

Roots follow a very different law, always endeavouring to get away from
the light ; and, accordingly, so far from avoiding a stone or other obstacle,
they often cling closely around it,
and sometimes even mould their
forms upon the hard substances
with which they meet. This is well
exemplified in the root of an alder
tree(^'lnus glutinosa, Betula J'lnus
Lin7i.), which my little boy found
in his searches after fresh-water
shells for his collection. (See Vol. I.
p. 413.) The root (fg. 115 a) was
embedded among the gravel form-
ed by theRavensbourne river which
passes the bottom of my garden ;
and it requires no details to point
out how exactly it has moulded
itself on every stone which it met
with in its course. In the same
manner roots are much influenced
in their forms by the soils in which
they grow. Of this I lately gave
the following illustration in the
AthencDum, from the familiar in-
stance of fibrous and bulbous
roots: — When plants with fi-
brous roots are placed in certain
situations, they are apt to change
their fibrous structure for a bulb-
ous one, in the same way as the
water crowfoot (iJanunculus aqua-
tilis) has scolloped leaves above,
and minutely winged leaves below,
water. The change from fibrous
to bulbous roots, and the contrary,
is markedly exemplified in some
of the grasses, particularly in Ti- ^ _ _
mothy grass (Phleum) and fox-tail gras"s'(^'iopecurus). Before this change
of form was discovered, botanists frequently described the same grass under
different names ; a circumstance which occurred with regard to ^lopeciirus
geniculatus (6) and Phleum pratense (c). Leers seems to have been the first
to discover that transplanting into a light rich soil tends to change the
bulbous into the fibrous structure. — J.Rennie.

Descent of the Radicles in the Germination of Seeds. — The unsatisfactory
nature of several of the theories hitherto proposed on this subject has been
ably shown by H. Johnson, Esq., in a paper read before the Medical Society

H H 4

464? Botany,

of Edinburgh, and published in JamiesorCs Journal for April. According to
Dr. Darwin the radicle is stimulated by moisture, and elongates itself where
it is most excited; according to Mr. Knight the radicle obeys the laws of
gravitation. Mr. Johnson found that the radicle could be made to grow
either downwards or upwards, according to the seed's being placed on the
upper or the under surface of a mass of moistened earth, a result with which
the experience of every gardener renders him familiar. Had Dr. Darwin,
instead of the word moisture, used the term moist soil, his theory would
have been unanswerable ; as it stands, it is still by far the nearest to the
truth. The fallacy of Mr. Knight's theor)', which was adopted by Sir Hum-
phry Davy in the earlier editions of his Agricultural Chemistry, is rendered
sufficiently obvious by Mr. Johnson's experiments ; but it had ceased to be
in repute for a number of years Mr. Johnson agrees with Dr. Thompson
and M. Aubert Du Petit-Thouars in ascribing this power of the vegetable
to the vital principle. — Cond.

The Sun-Flower. — I was somewhat surprised to find the following pas-
sage in Drummond's First Steps to Botany, an excellent little work : —
" Leaves always turn to the light, and some flowers regularly follow the
sun, facing him when he rises, and also when he sets. It is strange that the
sun-flower is so generally supposed to possess this property, since the
slightest observation is sufficient to prove its fallacy. Gerarde detected the
error so long ago as 1597." He then quotes the passage from Gerarde's
Herhal, p. 614., in support of the above assertion, wherein Gerarde says, he
could never observe the property, although he had endeavoured to find out
the truth of it. Last year 1 had fifteen sun-flowers in my little garden, and
it was a constant source of amusement to observe the flowers following so
regularly as they did the course of the sun. In the evening when we
retired they all looked towards the setting sun, but in the morning all were
turned the contrary way, to be ready to meet the first beams of the great
luminary of the day; and this continued daily until the flowers faded, and
the work of fructification was over, when the sensibility to the light seemed
to be lost, and the head remained fixed. The popular reason for the name
of the flower is this very property, and it is rather unaccountable how it
should hate escaped the notice of Dr. Drummond.

Since I wrote the above I found the following passage in Smith's Intro-
duction to Botany, p. 159. ed. 4. : — " Nor is the effect of light peculiar to
leaves alone. Many flowers are equally sensible to it, especially the com-
pound radiated ones, as the daisy, sun-flower, marigold, &c. The stately
annual sun-flower, Helianthus annuus, displays this phenomenon more con-
spicuously on account of its size, but many of the tribe have greater sensi-
bility to light. Its stem is compressed, in some degree, to facilitate the
movement of the flower, which, after following the sun all day, returns after
sun-set to the east, by its natural elasticity to meet his beams in the morn-
ing. Dr. Hales thought the heat of the sun, by contracting the stem on one
side, occasioned the flower to incline that way; but if so, it could scarcely
return completely at night. There can be no doubt, from the observation
of other similar flowers, that the impression is made on their radiated
florets, which act as wings, and seem contrived chiefly for that purpose,
being frequently destitute of any other use." How is this difference in the
two authors to be accounted for? — JD. Stock. Bungay, July 28* 1828.

Sloughing of Plants. — The power of sloughing has been denied to plants
without good reason ; for at a certain time of the year the leaves of a plant
decay and fall off": so do ripe fruit. If a shrub, when in leaf, be planted,
and any part of it die, the leaves formerly expanded will adhere to it, but
those on the living branches will wither, fall off", and give place to others.
— {MS Lectures of Sir J. E. Smith.)

Geology, 465

Art. IV. Geology,

MiSTATEMENTS in Ures New System of Geology. — Sir, In common with
every lover of natural history, I hailed the first appearance of your periodi-
cal with pleasure ; and the gratification has been increased by every suc-
cessive Number, so admirably is it calculated to promote the objects for
which it was designed. 1 live in a remote part of the country, and can in-
dulge my favourite pursuits but partially, not being within reach of any
scientific library, and not having the means to purchase the works on science
which I require. I am, therefore, obliged to economise, and be guided in
my purchase by the opinions of the reviews in respectable journals. I know
so little of geology, and yet feel so deeply interested in that science, from
the novel and extraordinary facts which your Magazine and other works
have from time to time noticed, that I had put by ray little pittance to
purchase an elementary work on the subject ; and seeing in Brande^s Jour'
nal, and other periodicals, a very high eulogium passed on Dr. Ure's " New
System of Geology, in which the great Revolutions of the Earth and animated
Nature are reconciled at once to Modern Science and Sacred History," I was
induced to send my guinea to the bookseller, and procured the volume so
much praised by those who must certainly have been capable of judging,
and which was ushered into the world with such high pretensions. Now,
Sir, I do not profess to be even a tyro in geology, but I am acquainted with
a few facts, which (if I am not greatly mistaken) are sadly distorted and
misrepresented in the work alluded to. I will but briefly notice a few
instances of what appear to me to be errors, convinced that, if I am cor-
rect, you will think it your duty to guard your readers against a system
which is likely to be the more injurious to the science of geology, since it
emanates from so respectable a quarter, and has been praised by such high
authority. You must indeed, Mr. Editor, allow me to remark, that it is as
much your duty to guard your readers against erroneous publications, as it
is to point out the most valuable ones to their notice. 1 have neither the
time, inclination, nor ability to attempt a review of such a work as Dr. Ure's :
I merely wish to notice some of its more glaring errors; and, if 7?zy remarks
are incorrect, shall be most happy to be set right, and offer all due apology
for my presumption. The first error (and it is an important one) that
strikes me is in the Table of Equivalents (pp. 136, 137.)» in which the lias
is placed above the coral rag, cornbrash, Bath oolite, &c., and immediately
beneath the ^^ green sand J ^* The "green sand" comes next to the lias,
and the craie inferieuse of the French is named as the equivalent. Where,
then, should the Hastings' beds and the Purbeck be placed? for the chalk
is next in order. In this instance, as in another hereafter noticed, Dr. Ure
seems to have forgotten that the sands and clays, below the green sand of
the chalk, form, together with the Purbeck, a well-characterised fresh-water
formation, separating the chalk from the oolite.

At pp. 272, 273. the acknowledged imperfect account of the beds between
the chalk and oolite, given in Messrs. Conybeare and Phillip's work, is in-
serted almost verbatim ; Dr. Ure, as in the instance above quoted, losing
sight of the discoveries which the researches of later geologists have brought
to light. Accordingly, he enumerates the strata as, 1. Iron sand; 2. Inter-
jacent clay, or Weald clay; 3. Green sand ; 4. Chalk marl ; and adds, " all
these strata are probably of marine origin : " and, in noticing the " iron
sand " (p. 274.), he remarks, " the organic remains of this bed have been
imperfectly explored: they are not numerous; but the iVautilus, JSelem-
nites, Kmmomtes, O'streae, Terrebratulae, and spines of an Echinus cidaris
have been found." Now, Sir, I would respectfully submit, that all this is
palpably wrong ; and how Dr. Ure, with Mr. Mantell's work on the fossils
of the Hastings' bed before him (and which he repeatedly quotes in his

4i66 Geology,

account of the fossil reptiles), could have committed such a blunder is really
inexplicable. The researches of Mr. Mantell have proved that the strata
formerly called the iron sand abound with organic remains ; all of which,
or with but very few exceptions, are fresh-water or terrestrial : and the me-
moirs of Dr. Fitton and Mr. Webster, on the strata below the chalk, have
long since established the true relations and characters of that interesting
group of beds, now universally termed the Hastings' deposits. Surely so
important a discovery ought not to have been unnoticed in a Neiv System
of Geology. But, Sir, were I only to point out the incorrect quotations,
and the extracts from other works, put together without due consideration,
and therefore leading to inferences which the writers never could have
contemplated, I should occupy too great a portion of your valuable pages.
I must content myself with merely noticing, in conclusion, that the plates
of organic remains are shamefully incorrect. The Scaphites aequalis (pi. 2.),
a fossil peculiar to the lower beds of the chalk, is figured as a shell of the
LIAS ! Mjdi intermedia, of the London clay (pi. 5.), is called a character-
istic fossil of the under oolite! and, in plate 4., the shells figured as peculiar
to the cornbrash and upper oolites are a medley of chalk and tertiary shells,
with a few from the oolite : for instance, there are figured Turrilites cos-
tatus and Vermicularia umbonata, found in the grey chalk marl j Hamites
gibbosus, from the gait; Protellaria macroptera and Turritella conoidea,
from the tertiary beds, &c. ! These errors must have arisen from sheer
inattention ; but when a man like Dr. Ure, distinguished in the scientific
world by his talents and admirable works, announces a " new system " of
any science, have we not a right to expect that he will condescend to avoid
such egregious errors? errors, too, which must so entirely mislead the
uninitiated. No one can entertain a higher respect for Dr. Ure's talents as
a chemist than myself, and I deeply regret he should have placed his so
respectable name to the publication which has occasioned these remarks.
I beg to repeat. Sir, that if any of my observations appear to you incorrect
or too severe, you will suppress or alter them as you may think proper.
If my strictures are correct, how. Sir, can we understand the unqualified
praise bestowed on this work in Brande's Journal and other periodicals?
We know what Lord Byron said of my " grandmother's review ; ^' but the
ones I allude to are above the reach of suspicion. — H. August, 1829.

Form and Aspect of Mountains. — Most of the principal mountains have
one of their sides very steep, and the other gradually sloping. The Alps
may be instanced as an example, having a much more abrupt descent on
the side of Italy than on that of Switzerland; the Pyrenees again, are
steeper towards the south than the north ; while the chain of Asturias,
which branches westward from the Pyrenees, is just the reverse. Mount
Taurus, in the part where it approaches the Mediterranean and the Dar-
danelles, is abrupt on the south, but in Armenia it has a rapid descent
northward. The mountains of Scandinavia are steeper towards the west
and north-west than the east and south-east ; and the Ghauts in Hindostan
are, in like manner, precipitous on the west, and sloping in the opposite
direction. In all these chains the steepest side is found to be that which
is nearest the sea, and consequently their inclination is most gradual towards
the interior of the country in which they are situated. — J. R.

Fossil Charcoal accounted for. — I was particularly struck with a pheno-
menon recorded by Dr. Richardson, the naturalist in Captain Franklin's
expedition of discovery, respecting the shale on the coasts of the Arctic
Sea. This shale composed precipitous banks, which, in many places, were
on fire. " The shale," adds Dr. Richardson, " takes fire in consequence
of its containing a considerable quantity of sulphur in a state of such minute
division, that it very readily attracts oxygen from the atmosphere, and
inflames." Nothing, I think, could explain in a more satisfactory manner

Geology, 467

the occurrence of charcoal in coal measures and other mineral strata. In
the anthracite mines of North America, for example, wood charcoal occurs,
with the ligneous structure as well marked as in charcoal recently pre-
pared. — J, R.

Volcanoes. — It is remarkable that in the old continent the principal
chains of mountains contain no volcanoes, and that islands and the extre-
mities of peninsulas are alone the seats of these ; while, in the new world,
the immense range which runs along the shore of the Pacific Ocean pos-
sesses more volcanoes than are to be met with in the whole of the old
continent and its adjacent islands. — J. R.

Trachyte. — What was formerly denominated Trap-porphyry is now
called Trachyte, and is a granular fissured rock, formed of glassy felspar and
hornblende, in which augite, mica, laminar felspar, and quartz, also occur.
All the summits of volcanoes are composed of this- rock, whether they be
low hills, like those of Saxony, or rise, like the Andes, to 17,70iD ft. high ;
the latter, probably, situated on a crevice traversing the whole continent,
over an extent of 105 geographical leagues, from the Pacific to the Atlantic
Oceans. {Humboldfs Tabl. de la Nature.)

Chemical Powers of Magnetism. — The following experiment is by the
Abbe Rendu. If a bent glass tube be filled with the tincture of red cab-
bage, and two iron wires suspended to the poles of a magnet be immersed in
the liquid in the two branches, the tincture will, in a quarter of an hour,
become blue, or of a deep green in both branches of the tube, although the
magnetism of the two wires must be of different kinds. The same result
is produced, if well tempered and polished steel needles be used in place of
the wires. If one wire be removed, the effect takes place only in the other
branch of the tube where the wire remains. The same results occur if the
wires are not in contact with a magnet ; but being then cleaned, they are
found to have become magnetic. Tincture of litmus undergoes similar
changes, but far more slowly, and the colour becomes green only in the leg
containing the north wire.

M. Biot considered that the oxidation of the wires might in these produce
the ordinary effects of a voltaic current, but that as magnetism exerted its
influence, notwithstanding the presence of interposed bodies, he advised M.
Rendu to separate the wires from the tincture, by glass tubes closed at
their lower extremities. In this case, even according to Rendu, the same
phenomena were produced, but much more slowly. The tincture of red
cabbage, however, became perfectly green in two days. Mem. de Savoie.
Bull. Univ. A.x. 196. {Brande's Quart. Journal, Oct.— Dec. 1828, p. 429.)

Scottish Gold. — It is a prevalent opinion amongst the peasantry in Scot-
land, that gold may be discovered by examining the sheep which feed on the
pastures where it is subjacent. The following are the supposed effects of this
sort of pasture, as" given in Bellenden's translation of Boetius's Cosmogra-
phe of Albion: — "The sheep that gangis [pastures] on Dundore are yellow;
their teeth are haed like gold ; their flesh red, as it were littit [dyed] with
saffron ; their wool is on the same manner." Cordiner, in his Picturesque
Antiquities, also mentions this hill, which is in the north of Scotland, and
spells it Dun d'Or, " the hill of gold." The people, he adds, assert that
the sheep have their teeth beautifully gilded. — J. R.

Lead Ore. — Miners, supposing blende to be changed into lead glance,
talk of a mine's not being n^;e. This is improbable ; but a mine may be too
ripe, as appears from an instance at Lead Hills in Scotland, where the vein
which now contains the carbonates, sulphates, and phosphates, must once
have been replete with the more valuable sulphuret of lead. {Haidinger in
Edin, Phil. Trans., xi. 75.)

468 Meteorology.

Art. V. Meteorology/,

Rules for the Weather. — A wet summer is always followed by a frosty
winter, but it happens occasionally that the cold extends no farther. Two
remarkable instances of this occurred in 1807-8 and 1813-14. With these
exceptions, every frosty winter has been followed by a cold summer.

The true cause of cold, or rather the direct cause, is to be found in the
winter excess of west wind, every winter with excess of west wind being
followed by a cold summer; and if there is no cold before, or during a first
excess, then a second excess of west wind in winter occasions a still colder
summer than the first. It also appears, by repeated experience, that cold
does not extend to more than two years at a time.

Again, if the winter excess of east wind be great, in the first instance,
the winters will be mild, and followed by mild summers: while the summer
excess of east wind is itself, in the first instance, always mild; but uniformly
followed by cold winters and cold summers, which continue, more or less,
for one or two years, according to circumstances. {Mackenzie^ Syst. of the
Weather.)

Electricity of the Winds. — In the Mediterranean Mr. Black ascertained,
by numerous observations, that winds or currents of vapour of some con-
tinuance from an extent of sea, are negatively charged with electricity ;
while those from the land, especially from hilly countries, are relatively in
a positive condition. When opposite winds, such as north and south, are
differently charged with electricity and meet, a transfer of the electric matter
is always the consequence. {Journ. in Mediternan.)

Air for Analysis. — To collect air for the purpose of analysis, instead of
emptying a bottle filled with water, as is usually done, M. Gaultry de Clau-
bry employs a saturated solution of sulphate of magnesia in the same way,
{Annales de C/iimie, vol. xxxvii. p. 380.)

Malaria the Cause of Sun-stroke. — Dr. M'Cnlloch is of opinion that the
sun-stroke, or coup-de-soleil, as it is called, which proves bO often fatal in
hot climates, and is commonly attributed to the sun, is probably nothing
more than the access of marsh fever, caused by exposure to malaria on
the previous evening or morning. It is not, however, denied, that expo-
sure to a burning vertical sun may not produce inflammation of the brain,
and prove rapidly fatal. {Brande's Journ., vii.)

Analysis, of the South-west Wind. — This wind consists of' air flowing
from the south, and seeming occasionally absorbed at its arrival at the more
northern latitudes. It has a real direction from the west, owing to its not
having lost in its journey the greater velocity it had acquired from the
earth's surface whence it came. — J. R.

Halo round the Sun. — The last time I was gj; Resley, I witnessed a
colourless halo round the sun, precisely like those usually seen surrounding
the moon, except that the diameter of the circle seemed larger than those
of lunar haloes usually are. It continued for a quarter of an hour or so. I
had never witnessed a solar halo before, and was in hopes I should have, for
once, seen a parhelion, or mock sun; but no such phenomenon occurred,
the halo gradually dying away. — John Thompson. Hidl, July 20. 1829.

Rules for determining the Temf)erature of a Country. — The fact that a
degree of latitude is equal to a degree of Fahrenheit, and that 400 ft. of
elevation is equal, also, to a degree of Fahrenheit, is original and curious,
and will go far to assist us in determining the clime of any country.
{Amer. Quart. Rev., March 1829, p. 174.)

469

' PART IV,

MISCELLANEOUS INTELLIGENCE.

Art. I. Natural History in Foreign Comitries,

FRANCE.

Dr. Gall's Mode of studying the Characters of Animals. — After present-
ing my letters of introduction to him at seven o'clock in the morning, he
showed me into a room, the walls of which were covered with birdcages,
and the floor with dogs and cats, Sec. Observing that I was surprised at
the number of his companions, he observed, " All you Englishmen take me
for a birdcatcher. I am sure you feel surprised that I am not somewhat
differently made to any of you, and that I should employ my time talking
to birds. Birds, Sir, differ in their dispositions, like men j and if they
were but of more consequence, the peculiarity of their characters would
have been as well delineated. Do you think," said he, turning his eyes
to two beautiful dogs at his feet, which were endeavouring to gain his
attention, " do you think that these little pets possess pride and vanity like
man ? " — " Yes," I said, "1 have remarked their vanity frequently." —
" We will call both feelings into action," said he. He then caressed the
whelp, and took it into his arms. " Mark his mother's offended pride,'*
said he, as she walked quietly across the chamber to her mat. " Do you
think she will come if 1 call her ? " — " O yes," I answered. — " No, not
at all." He made the attempt, but she heeded not the hand she had so
earnestly endeavoured to lick but an instant before. " She will not speak
to me to-day," said the Doctor.

He then described to me the peculiarities of many of his birds, and I was
astonished to find that he seemed familiar also with their dispositions (if I
may be allowed the word). " Do you think a man's time would be wasted
thus in England ? You are a wealthy and powerful nation ; and, as long
as the equilibrium exists between the two, so shall you remain : but this
never has existed, nor can, beyond a certain period. Such is your industry,
stimulated by the love of gain, that your whole life is spun out before you
are aware the wheel is turning; and so highly do you value commerce, that
it stands in the place of self-knowledge and an acquaintance with Nature
and her immense laboratory." {E. A. T.'xn Med. and Phys. Jour.y Nov.)

The Chameleon^ Antipathy to Black. — Whatever may be the cause, the
fact seems to be certain, that the chameleon has an antipathy to things of
a black colour. One, which Forbes kept, uniformly avoided a black board
which was hung up in the chamber ; and, what is most remarkable, when it
was forcibly brought before the black board, it trembled violently, and
assumed a black colour. {Oriental Mem., i. 350.)

It may be something of the same kind which makes bulls and turkey-
cocks dislike the colour of scarlet, a fact of which there can be no doubt.
— J.i2.

Young of the Fresh-water Muscle. — M. Raspail, on observing the fresh-
water muscle microscopically, perceived it eject a granular parcel, which,
when torn, gave out a number of small bivalves, very lively, one third of a

470 Natural History in Foreign Countries,

millimetre in length, and furnished with umbilical cords. The shell was
formed of phosphate of lime and scarcely a trace of the carbonate of lime
could be discovered. This, it may be remarked, invalidates M. Blainville*s
account of eggs expelled by the animal ; and M. Jacobson*s, of the httle
shells being parasites. {Bulletin des Sciences^ tom. xiv.)

Earthworm oviparous. — M. L^on Dufour appears to have determined
that the earthworm (Lumbricus terrestris) is an oviparous and not a vivi-
parous animal. The eggs are of a very peculiar structure, being long, ta-
pering, and terminated at each end by a pencil of fringed membranaceous
substance. They have more the appearance, indeed, of a chrysalis or a
cocoon, than of an egg ; but their pulp, &c., prove them to be true eggs.
The worms when hatched are very agile, and when disturbed will some-
times retreat for safety within the shell which they have just quitted, or in-
stinctively dig into the clay. {Ann. Sc. Nat., Juin, 1828. See also v. 17.)

Vegetable Remains in Coal. — From a comparison of the vegetable remains
which accompany the deposits of anthracite in the Alps, with those which
characterise the coal formations, it appears that a complete identity of
genera and (where the specimens are perfect enough) of species exists in
each ; but no relation can be traced between those and the remains found
in the lias and oolitic formations. Botany, therefore, in this case, leads to
a conclusion almost directly opposite to that which has been deduced from
observations purely geological, and the study of fossil animals. The iden-
tity, if not the close analogy, of plants found in coal-measures (du terrain
houiller), in all parts of the globe where coal-fields have been examined,
leads us naturally to suppose that the same kind of vegetation existed over
the globe at the epoch of the coal formations. Though this is probable, it
is not certain, as we still want data for determining the vegetable produc-
tions of this period, between the tropics and in the polar regions. Even
admitting it in its full extent, we must not thence infer that this uniformity
continued during the formation of lias, oolite, chalk, and the strata of the
Paris basin.

M. Brongniart is of opinion that, at the period of the formation of the
lias, there were two great zones of terrene vegetation, the tropical and the
temperate ; the former being that which had constituted the only vegetation
when the coal-measures were deposited. That the remains of plants belong-
ing to the tropical zone are now found in Alpine anthracite, he explains by
referring to their transportation, by means of water, from the tropics ; an
explanation rendered probable from the remains being always in scattered
fragments, never in quantity, nor in a position to indicate that they have
grown where they are now found.

GERMANY.

Distant Sight. — Ross, in his Voyage to Baffin^ s Bay, proved that a man,
\inder favourable circumstances, could see over the surface of the ocean to
the extent of 150 English miles. It is not probable that any animal
exceeds this power of vision, though birds, perhaps, excel men and most
quadrupeds in sharpness of sight. Schmidt threw at a considerable dis-
tance from a thrush (Turdus musicus) a few small beetles of a pale grey
colour, which the unassisted human eye could not discover, yet the thrush
observed them immediately and devoured them. The long-tailed titmouse
(Parus caudatus) flits with great quickness among the branches of trees, and
finds on the very smooth bark its particular food, where nothing is percep-
tible to the naked eye, though insects can be detected there by the micro-
scope. A very tame red-breast (Sylvia Rubecula) discovered flies from the
height of the branch where it usually sat, at the distance of 18 ft. from the
ground, the instant they were thrown down j and this, by bending its head
to one side, and using, of course,, only one eye. At the same distance a

Natural History in Foreign Countries* 471

quail discovered with one eye some poppy seeds, which are very small and
inconspicuous. (Se/miid, Bliken en den Haushaltder Natiir, p. 26. edit. 1826.)

Of the Sight of krachiiidce^ Scorpion idee , and Stemmatous Insects. — The
smooth eyes of these animals are very analogous in their construction to
those of fishes ; only the anterior chamber of the eye is totally wanting,
and the iris is nothing more than a band of pigmentum bordering the ante-
rior surface of the glassy substance. The crystalline is not enchased in
the glassy substance ; the corresponding surfaces of these two bodies are
convex, and scarcely touch each other except in one point. The small
space which the crystalline leaves between it, the cornea, and the glassy
substance, is, probabl^^, filled up with a liquid in the living animal. In every
case refraction should be considerable in the stemmata, for it takes place,
1. by the convexity of the cornea; 2. by that of the crystalline, which
is denser than the cornea ; 5. by the posterior convexity of the crystal-
line to the passage of light in the space occupied, probably, by a liquid ;
4. and lastly, by the glassy substance. In consequence of this disposition,
the eyes, which are here treated of, must necessarily be purblind. Thus
spiders only see at very short distances. The position of these eyes, in a
great number of insects, and the fact that larvas have, in general, only stem-
mata, since they have nothing to see afar off, tends to confirm this opinion;
The field of sight in smooth eyes can be only very small : to this condition
their immobility and the diverging of their axis unite, to prevent, in spite of
their plurality, the different visual fields from covering themselves again, and
the double or multiple sight from taking place.

In the ^Solpuga the large eyes diverge under an angle of 90°, the field of
vision cannot surpass that extent ; and in other Jrachnidae in which the
diverging is less, there is even some visual scope. The small pediculate eyes
of the jSolpuga are situated anteriorly upon the same plane, and their fields
of vision should cover themselves ; in other ^rachnidae, the eyes are always
placed upon an arc of the external integuments, sometimes united by pairs,
but always with diverging axes. The large eyes of the jSolpuga, and of other
scorpions, are probably less myopic than the small, less developed, and less
diverging stemmata of other Jrachnidae. {Miiller, zur Vergleichen Phys,
des Gesicht.)

Rock Blocks. — M. Hausmann, whose profound knowledge of geology is
well known, has published an excellent memoir in Latin, under the title of
De Origine Saxorum per Germanice Septentrionalis Regiones arenosas disper-
soriim. He describes the dispersion and gradual wearing down of the in-
numerable erratic blocks found in the sandy plains of Northern Germany;
though, as M. Brongniart justly remarks, they are by no means confined to
this district, but extend east and west, as well as along the course of the
Danube.

All their phenomena indicate a violent catastrophe which the northern
portion of the globe must have sustained at the period of its last general
change. M. Hausmann mentions the several theories devised to account
for these. Some geologists are of opinion that the blocks in question have
been formed in the localities which they now occupy, being the remains of
mountains which anciently occupied those plains. This opinion has been
defended by Beroldinger, and lately revived by Muncke ; but, though at
first sight it appears simple, it is disproved by the great diversity of the
species of rocks found indiscriminately together, though varying very far in
the dates of their formation. Some, for example, are enveloped in sand, in
clay, and in marl ; whilst others, entirely naked and isolated, rest upon a
posterior alluvion. The blocks, moreover, are «ot surrounded with stones
in such a manner as to support this opinion ; and their smooth surface, whe-
ther it be plain or rounded, proves that they must have long been exposed
to the influence of water. Other geologists suppose them to have been

472 'Natural History in 'Foreign Coimtries,

thrown out from volcanoes, or to have fallen from the firmanent ; opinions
which it requires little expense of argument to disprove. The prevailing
hypothesis is, that the rock blocks have been detached from mountains,
more or less distant from their present position ; some referring to the
mountains in a northerly, and others to the mountains in a southerly,
direction. M. Hausmann himself is of opinion that the rock blocks in ques-
tion have been rolled in a direction from north-east to south-west, and sup-
ports the theory by referring to Braunschweig, Hanover, the valley of the
Weser, &c., where are found the porphyry of Elfdal and other stones
which abound in Dalecarlia, as well as in the neighbouring mountain chains.
In Mecklenburg, also, and Pomerania, are found the debris of the rocks of
Gottland and Oeland ; and the dispersion of these blocks extends even
through Denmark and into the interior of Sweden, as has been more fully
explained by M. Brongniart in a paper of which we have elsewhere taken
notice. ^Bulletin des Sciences.)

HOLLAND AND THE NETHERLANDS.

LibellulcB distinguished from .'E'shnae. — Monsieur M. L Van der Hoeven,
professor of natural history at Ley den, has given the following distinctions
of Libel lulae and jE's/mcs : —

1. In the anterior wings of Libellulae, and near their base, is a humeral
or discoidal cellula, presenting the figure of a reversed rectangular triangle,
terminating in a point in the base. In jE'shnce, on the contrary, instead
of this triangle, there is found a cellula of greater size, and horizontally
shaped, while there is no difference between their anterior and posterior
wings.

2. JE'shncB which have their eyes widely separated (such as the M'slina
forcipata of Fabricius, M. unguiculata), and forming the second division of
this genus in the system of M. Vander Linden {M'shna bononi^nsis) in 4to,
1820, have a triangular cellula, like that of Libellulae, but shorter and
more broad. In other respects, their anterior and posterior wings resemble
those of other JF/shnce^ which never occurs among Libellulae. ' Agrions
may, perhaps, be distinguished by the feebleness of their brachial nervures,
and the narrowness of their wings. {Annales des Sciences Naturelles,
December.)

SWEDEN.

The cartilaginous envelope of the brain in the ikfyxnie glutinosa, which
forms the cranium, has for a base a thin cartilage of a brown tint, and of a
structure peculiar to this subdivision of chondropterygian fishes, the Cyclo-
stommata. This supporting cartilage nearly resembles in form the lyre of
Apollo, consisting of an arch, of which the two sides are symmetrical.
Behind, this arch is supported by the anterior part of the vertebral column
and by the labyrinth ; and, before, it enlarges and terminates by two recur-
rent branches in form of an S reversed. (^RetziuSy Act. Acad. Sauv. Stock-
holm.)

DENMARK.

Ftora JDdnica. — Professor Hornemann lately read to the Society of
Copenhagen, a report upon a recent number of the Flora Ddnica. It con-
tains 50 species otcotyledonous plants, of which 18 have been added to the
Danish Flora. There are two, the Pjrola groenlandica and Pedicularis la-
nata, both from Greenland, which the Professor considers as new species.
Among 38 acotyledonous plants, the Alcyonidium attenuatum, from Green-
land, is also unedited. It may likewise be considered, that there are 22 new
species of this family, which have been discovered by Professor Schumacher,

Natural Histm-y in the English Counties, 473

and which have not before been figured in any botanical work. Besides the
descriptions of new or rare plants, the author has given details respecting
their uses and cultivation. {Oversigt over det Danske vidcnskab. Sckkabs
forhandl.)

ASIA.

Vision of Birds of Prey. — It always appeared to us most extraordinary,
indeed unaccountable, that birds of prey could scent carcasses at such
immense distances as they are said to do. We were led to scepticism on
this subject, some twenty years ago, while observing the concourse of birds
of prey, from every point of the horizon, to a corpse floating down the river
Ganges, and that during the north-east monsoon, when the wind blew stea-
dily from one point of the compass for months in succession. It was ex-
tremely difficult to imagine, that the effluvia from a putrefying body in the
water could emanate in direct opposition to the current of air, and impinge
on the olfactories of birds many miles distant. Such, however, were the
dicta of natural history, and we could only submit to the general opinion.
We have no doubt, now that we know the general opinion to be sometimes
wrong, that it was by means of the optic, rather than the olfactory, nerves,
" that the said birds smelled out their suit."

The toucan is a bird which ranks next to the vulture, in discerning,
whether by smell or by sight, the carrion on which it feeds. The immense
size of its bill, which is many times larger than its head, was supposed to
present, in its honeycomb texture, an extensive prolongation of the olfactory
nefve, and thus to account for its power of smelling at great distances.
But, on accurate examination, the texture above mentioned in the bill is
found to be mere diploe to give the bill strength. Now the eye of this bird
is somewhat larger than the whole brain, and it has been ascertained, by
direct experiments, that where'very putrid carrion was enclosed in a basket,
from which effluvia could freely emanate, but which concealed the offal
from sight, it attracted no attention from vultures and other birds of prey,
till it was exposed to their view, when they immediately recognised their
object, and others came rapidly from different quarters of the horizon,
where they were invisible a few minutes before.

This sudden appearance of birds of prey from immense distances, and in
every direction, however the wind may blow, is accounted for by their
soaring to an altitude far beyond our sight. In this situation, their prey on
the ground is seen by them, however minute it may be, and therefore their
appearance in our sight is merely their descent from high regions of the
atmosphere to within the scope of our optics. The toucan, in India, gene-
rally arrives a little in the rear of the vulture, and remains till the larger
bird is glutted, while smaller birds of prey, at a still more retired distance,
pay similar homage to the toucan. {Dr. James Johnson, in Medico-Chirurg.
Review.)

Art. II. Natural History in the English Counties,

Middlesex.

The ChiJ^-chaJ' arrives among the first of our summer birds, about the
latter end of April, and may be seen moving briskly from right to left in the
top branches of some tall tree, calling the peculiar note from which it re-
ceives its name. I send you one for inspection which was lately shot in
this neighbourhood. — A Constant Header. Sept. 15. 1829.

We have sent the specimen, for which we return our best thanks, to Mr.
Sowerby's museum ; Mr. Sowerby says it is the Lesser White Throat (Mo-
tacilla Sylvi^lla Lhi., Curruca Sylvidlla Flem.). — Cofid.

Vol. II. — No. 10. ii

4 7 4 Nattiral Histm-y in the English Counties.

Yorkshire.

Scarborough Museum. — Amongst the numerous interesting objects with
which Scarborough abounds, the new museum now stands most prominent
and attractive. It is situate to the south of the bridge, on an ascending
piece of ground, and is seen from the sands rising majestically above that
beautiful erection.

The museum is a rotunda of the Roman Doric order, 37 ft. 6 in. in ex-
ternal diameter, and 50 ft. high. The basement contains, y;ro tevqjore, the
library, keeper's room, and laboratory. When sufficient funds arc obtained,
it is proposed to place these accessories in wings radiating from the central
building, which will then be entirely used as a museum. The principal
room is 35 ft. high, and is lighted by a central eye or opening. The beau-
tiful Hackness stone, the munificent gift of Sir John B. Johnstone, Bart.,
has been employed in this building. The fossils, which are very numerous,
are arranged on sloping shelves, in the order of their strata, showing at
one view, the whole series of the kingdom. A horizontal shelf below sus-
tains the generic arrangement of fossil shells. Amongst the collection of
fossils, which is one of the most perfect in England, are two admirable as-
semblages of local fossils, one purchased of Mr. Williamson, and the other
presented to the Society by Mr. Duesbury, being the valuable collection of
the late Mr. Hinderwell. The birds and animals are placed above the
geological arrangement ; so that every part of the museum can be seen at
once. The whole expense of the building, fitting up, &c., will be about
1400/., of which 1100/. has been raised. The remainder, if not contributed
by the liberality of the friends of science, must be raised by loan, on interest.
A donation of 25/. constitutes a proprietor's share, which is transferable at
all times by will or sale, and confers a perpetual right of admission on the
family of the owner. A donation of 5/. confers the same perpetual right on
the families of strangers. The terms of admission to casual visitors are
reasonable ; and the receipts from this source go to pay the keeper, Mr.
Williams, who is always there to explain the geology of the district.

The building has been erected from designs by Mr. R. H. Sharp, architect,
of this city, on whom it reflects much credit.

At a public dinner on the opening of this museum, on the 31st of August,
an interesting history of its rise and progress was given. It appears that Mr.
Dunn, the secretary, convened a meeting at his own house in 1820, which
consisted, he states, " of Mr. Hinderwell, the possessor, at that time, of the
best collection in the town, and which has since been liberally presented to
the museum by Mr. Duesbury j Mr. Travis, whose botanical researches are
acknowledged by some of the best writers of the day; Mr. Bean, who was
then aspiring to the meridian of glory which he has since attained ; and Mr.
Smith, the father of English geology, whose connection with any institution
would form one of the brightest gems in its diadem. After maturely con-
sidering whether a society could be formed at Scarborough or not, Mr.
Hinderwell informed us he had promised his own collection to his nephew,
and from his age and declining health could not take an active part in its
formation. We consequently postponed the accomplishment of our wishes
till a more favourable period ; hoping, that when Sir John Johnstone re-
sided in our neighbourhood he would patronise our undertaking. In this
we have not been deceived, and before Sir John made his tour to Italy, he
offered to call a meeting together; but the intellectual atmosphere of Scar-
borough had not yet acquired that temperature which would be congenial
to the growth of so tender a plant. I cannot but lament the circumstance,
because if we had been ripe enough we might have formed the first link of
that splendid chain of philosophical institutions which has since adorned
this country. But if we had not the courage to dare to lead, we deserve
\o follow. As to the objects of the institution, allow me to say, that to give

Natiiral History in the English Counties. 475

energy, concentration, and effect to native talents; to examine the great
laboratory of the earth ; to establish the locality of natural objects ; to
trace analogies with distant parts of the earth ; to explore worlds of or-
ganised beings till lately unheard of, and to make acquaintance with
others now in existence, of which we were before ignorant; to collect,
and to arrange in a simple, harmonious, and intelligible form, the various
objects of natural science; and, in fact, to trace the finger of the Almighty
in his multiplied and magnificent operations, are some of the sublime ob-
jects of this Society ; and if by some they may be considered futile, because
they do not seem immediately to produce their return in pounds, shillings,
and pence, it is because a certain preparation of mind is necessary beyond the
limited calculations of commercial views, to appreciate these objects. But,Sir,
when the handicraft of Naples discovered the application of the magnet, who
could have foreseen it would have led to the navigation of the world ?
When Galileo found that, by the adjustment of a few convex glasses, distant
objects could be approximated, who could have believed that it would have
led to such an intimate acquaintance with the heavenly regions? And when
the Marquess of Worcester published his History of Inventions, or still more
lately. Dr. Black, his History of Latent Heat, could any man have foretold
that it would be followed by so gigantic an application of the power of
steam as we have lived to see? And if such results are the consequences
of man's labours, what may we not expect from closely attending to those
of Omnipotence ? Mr. William Vernon has strikingly observed, in a small
work well worthy your attention, ' That to a mind educated in the school
of natural history, mankind are indebted for the most extensively beneficial
of all the discoveries of the present age.' The same process of thought which
led to the observations of the habits of the swallow or the cuckoo, when
applied to the diseases of the cow, enabled the immortal Jenner to make the
discovery of vaccination, which, with few exceptions, has preserved mankind
from one of the greatest of human afflictions. But the mind as well as the
body must be fed with milk before it can bear strong meats. The uses of
such societies as ours are to adapt their aliment to all classes. The philo-
sopher of many years' standing will have abundant opportunities of enlarging
his knowledge; and whether he takes the comprehensive views of the
geologist, or descends to particulars with the naturalist ; whether he exa-
mines the formations of a world, or the elegant arrangements of the petals
of a rose ; the mountains of the Himalaya, or the wings of a butterfly; the
plains of a Pampas, or the convolution of a turbo ; the variegated carpet of
nature, or the no less varied coat of a caterpillar ; — he will be insensibly
led by his sublime contemplations ' from nature up to nature's God.' The
child, whose time has been hitherto spent in the study of the dead languages,
the practical application of which is confined to two or three professions,
will have his eyes opened to new objects, from which his father's have long
been closed, and his mind directed to a language more ancient than that of
Homer, the language of nature, a book which he can never lay aside with
an unholy thought. If the human mind, even in the humblest form, cannot
be as agreeably entertained in such a sanctuary, as in the purlieus of a pot-
house ; if, when oppressed with disappointment and sorrow, it cannot here
find diversion which will both chasten and enlarge, elevate and refine it
from the foul dross of worldly anxieties, then deem this institution unworthy
of your patronage, and denounce its secretary as an impostor. Gentlemen,
I beg to conclude in the language of the best of our modern historians, Mr.
Sharon Turner: ' To be intelligent is now even more necessary than to be
affluent, because mind is become the invisible sovereign of the world ; and
they who cultivate its progress, being diffused every where in society, are the
tutors of the human race; they dictate the opinions, they fashion the con-
duct of men. To be illiterate, or to be imbecile, in this illumed day, is to

I I 2

476 Nahu^al Hhtoi^ in the English Counties*

be despised and trodden down in the tumultuous struegle for wealth, power,
and reputation, in which every individual is too eagerly conflicting."*

Sir J. V. B. Johnstone, in explaining his connection with the museum,
adverted to the circumstance of Hull, Whitby, Leeds, and other secondary
towns of Yorkshire, having been long conspicuous for their museums, and
to the richness of the district in which they lived in botany and conchology
and other treasures suitable for a museum. He did not profess to be a
philosopher himself, but, says he, " As a landed proprietor, I assure you,
honestly, I intend to derive some advantage from this institution. An
accurate knowledge of the strata upon my estate, which will enable me at
once to lay my hand upon gravel, marl, lime, building and walling stone,
surely is not to be despised ; and as plants are peculiar to certain soils, a
delineation of the strata, whilst it assists the studies of the botanist, will also
afford to agriculture a surer basis for improvement. One certain result will
certainly follow the knowledge of geology : for the future, the chalk on
Sherburn Wold will not be vainly bored for coal, or the Hackness Moors
for lead ; both which operations have taken place, of course, with dead loss
to the proprietors and the community."

Sir George Cayley, after several mirth-creating observations of a
local character, said, " You have the advantage of possessing two natu-
ralists in Scarborough, whose names are, perhaps, as well or better
known on the Continent than at home, for few men are esteemed pro-
phets in their own provinces. Many there are amongst you who have,
amidst other pursuits, given a fair share of attention to scientific objects,
and especially to natural history j but Mr. Bean and Mr. Williamson are
naturalists by profession, the have dedicated their lives to it, and have made
discoveries which have extended the bounds of human knowledge. Such
men shed a great lustre over your undertaking. Touching upon this subject, I
cannot but express my regret, that Mr. Bean's fair title to the original dis-
covery of certain new fossil vegetables has been superseded on the Continent
by Mr. Williamson, who, without any unfair intentions, having given them
publicity, as I find in M. Brongniart*s late invaluable work on fossil veget-
ables, they are named after him. With regard to most of these discoveries,
I conceive that Mr. Bean stands in the same relationship as Columbus with
respect to America, and, on a minor scale, with nearly a parallel result. I
do not wish to detract from Mr. Williamson's just merits ; he has been in-
defatigable in his researches on localities discovered by Mr. Bean. I wish
that some gentlemen, qualified by local information, would give to the

fublic a proper line of demarcation between two most valuable men \ all
wish is, that each should have his due share of public applause ; a man's
fair fame ought to be as much his own as his estate. I have named the
circumstance to my friend, the Baron de Ferussac, who has some years ago
acknowledged Mr. Bean's communications in his"splendid work on concho-
logy, and I mak e no doubt some notice will be taken of it in the next
number of his Bulletin Universel. I must not quit the subject of fossil
plants without adverting to the lucid and satisfactory essay of M. Bron-
gniart, who has proved, I believe, to the satisfaction of the most eminent
naturalists, that we have five distinct epochs in the previous vegetation of
our planet : this will furnish us with such marked and distinct guides, when
examining the stratifications of the earth, that men will soon be talking of
these matters, as of what occurred at the first, second, or fifth milestones on
their journeys. By the classes of plants at these different epochs, we seem
to be acquiring a knowledge of the past temperatures of our climate ; and
in the discovery of certain inflammable and highly expansive fluids, enclosed
in crystals, by Dr. Brewster, which, probably, during a long series of aggre-
gation at the same temperature, have been imprisoned in cells which then
fitted their contents, but which fluids have, in our present temperature,
shrunk so as to leave a partial vacuum, though readily made to fill them
again, as may be seen under a microscope, by the application of a heat

Calendar of Nature,

477

considerably greater than that of the human body ; thus seeming to furnish
a sort of register thermometer of the early temperature of our globe. At
least such facts lead us to hope that a much more clear developement of
our previous planetary history will be attained to, than at one time the
nature of the subject seemed to admit." ( Yorkshire Gazette, Sept. 5).

It would thus appear that an Englishman, when he chooses, can, in a
dinner speech, distinguish himself as well in matters of natural history and
philosophy, as in politics. Nothing can be more gratifying than to see the
power to do this joined with the inclination. It will be no small advantage
to this institution to have such a man for their secretary as Mr. Dunn, whose
mind is evidently thoroughly imbued with science and universal benevolence.
— Cond.

Vhysker catbdon. — You mention your regret at not being able to obtain
a good drawing of the Physeter catodon ; I have, therefore, sent you two

plates of one cast on the Holderness coast, in 1825; the larger plate was
from a copy drawn by a land-surveyor, and, though accurate as to admeasure-
ment, is by no means so good a resemblance as the smaller one {fig. 114.),
which is a very fair representation of the animal, as laid upon the shore.
Mr. Davies, the bookseller here, is in possession of an original drawing, by
Mr. Dikes, which is said to be the best likeness taken of it.

The whale was claimed by Mr. Constable, as the Lord of Holderness, and
the skeleton is now at Burton Constable, the seat of Sir Clifford Constable.
It was, however, about two years ago, in a very neglected condition, being
laid in an irregular heap, in the middle of a field, as I have been told.
Whether it has since been put together and taken care of, I have not heard.
Yours, &c. — Thomas Thompson. Hidly May 28.

Dorsetshire.

Flowers varying in Colour. — During the last month I have found Scabios^
arvensis and Erythrae^a Centa6rium with white flowers, and Prunella vul-
garis with flowers of a rose colour. — A Constant Reader. Winburne^ SejJt.

Art. III. Calendar of Nature.

Scotland.

Diagram, showing the Motion of the Mercury in the Barometer and
Thermometer, and the Temperature at which Dew is deposited, or the
mean of each for every ten days in June and July; also the Depth of Rain
in the Pluviometer, and the Quantity of Moisture evaporated from the
Evaporating Gauge for the same period ; as extracted from the Register
kept at Annat Gardens, Perthshire, N. lat. 56° 23^', above the level of the
sea 172 ft., and 15 miles from the coast, by the mean of daily observations
at 0 o'clock morning and 10 o'clock evening. (The explanation of the
Diagram will be seen at p. 284. supra.)

478

Calendar of Nature,

115

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June

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ruly.

The mean temperature for June this year is 56' 7'^, which is half a
degree lower than on an average of the past seven years for that month.
The fall of rain rs in. or within -2 of an inch of the ordinary average. The
mean temperature for July is 57*1°; the ordinary mean for that month, on
an average of seven years, is GO?®. The average fall of rain in July is 2-43 in.
This year the fall measures in the rain-gauge 4*35 in. The coldest day in
June was on the 5th : mean temperature of that day 50°; extreme cold 40° ;
wind N.W. Warmest day on the 8th : mean temperature of that day 60° ;
extreme heat 70*5°; wind S.E. The coldest day in July was on the 3d :
mean temperature of that day 505°; wind N.W. ; extreme cold 46°.
Warmest day the 22d: extreme heat 72°; wind W. The mercury in the
barometer rose to 29-9° on the 10th of June; wind S.E.: it fell to 28-9° on
the 16th ; wind N.W. The mercury was lowest on the 2d of July, when it
stood at 28-5''; wind S.W.: and highest on the 31st, height 29'55°. There
were loud gales of wind from the N.W. on the 3d, 15th, and 16th of June,
and on the 22d of Jul}^

At the beginning of June vegetation was about as forward as at the same
period last season. The weather continued dry till the 13th of that mojith ;
and want of moisture at the root produced a disposition to run rather pre-

Calendar of Nature, t/Q

maturely to seed in the growing crops; and although the average tempera-
ture in June was nearly 2° lower than in the corresponding month last year,
yet, for the above reason, vegetation appeared to continue in as forward a
state as last season, till near the end of the month. For the sake of more
ample reference in future, we shall make more extended remarks respecting
the progress of vegetation than we did in our report for June and Jul}' last
year. The laburnum came in flower on the 4th, and the mulberry was in
leaf on the 5th, the same as in 1828; the Primula scotica and farinosa
(bird's-eye primrose) on the 6th ; the Geranium sangulneum on the 7th,
and the double-flowered butter-cup (Ranunculus acris) on the 9th. The
web caterpillar that infests apple trees appeared on the 1 1th, a week earlier
than last year. The gooseberry caterpillar did not appear at all. Bees
began to swarm on the 10th. The Tradescantia discolor (spiderwort) was
in flower on the 15th, the Buddlea globosa on the Ifith, the ^'ster alpina on
the 18th. Clover that was sown on the 13th brairded on the 19th (6
days) ; mean temperature of that period 55 5° Wheat came in the ear on
the 22d. The destruction to wheat in this quarter last year, by the maggot,
excited early attention to its mode of propagation ; and numerous small
yellow flies were observed, on that side of the ear which had burst the
sheath, busily employed laying eggs through a semitransparent fine tube,
which entered within the glume. Though this fly had caused the evil last
year, it was not noticed. Strawberries were gathered on the 24th, the same
day as last season. Although the clover hay was ready for the scythe at
that time, the moist weather prevented the operation of cutting till the
first week in July. Field peas, that gave a braird on the 51st of March (see
p. 205.) came in flower on the 24th, a period of 85 days; mean temperature
of that period 50"5°. The web caterpillar became torpid on the 28th; 4
days later than last season. The wind was from the W. and N.W. 13
days, and from the E. and S.E. 17 days; there were 8 days of brilliant, and 6
of partial, sunshine, and 1 6 days in which the atmosphere was clouded. There
was thunder, accompanied with showers, on the I3th, I4th, 15th, 17th, and
2 2d.

On the 1st of July a heavy rain fell, amounting to '8 of an inch ; and, in
the short space of thirty-eight hours, not less than three inches fell on the
4th and 5th. The subsequent evaporation cooled the air near the earth's
surface, and considerably retarded the vegetative process. The atmosphere
was often cloudy, and the temperature often fell to 48° during the night
at 3 ft. above the earth's surface; and a thermometer lying on the grass
frequently indicated 8° lower. The sudden and copious supply of moisture
promoted an elongation of plant; but as the ear of many of the Gra-
mineas, and the flowers of other plants, had been nearly developed during
the long and severe drought, vegetation did not for some time seem so
backward as might have been inferred from the low temperature, under
ordinary circumstances.

The Antirrhinum pfctum and majus (snapdragon) came in flower on the
2d of July, and the eggs which had been laid on the 22d of June were formed
into small yellow caterpillars in the space of 10 days; mean temperature
of that period 55-5°. The single white campanula (Campanula joersici-
folia) came in flower on the 6th ; and at that time the white cabbage-butter-
flies were first observed. It was the 7th before clover hay-cutting could
commence by reason of the rains. The ^enecio abrotanifolius was in flower
on the 8th. Oats at Annat Park, that brairded on the 28th of April (see
p. 285.), came in ear on the 1 1th, a period of 74 days; mean temperature
of that period 54*3°. The iychnis chalcedonica was in full flower on
the 1 1th ; quite as early as last year.

On the 12th the wheat ears were covered with small black flies, the
same as -we erroneously supposed last year to have been produced by the
maggot (seep. 96.). This fly has a round head, but as far as we could dis-

I 1 4

480 Calendar of Nature.

cern has no eyes ; two antenrrae proceed from the lower part of the forehead ;
it lias six small and brownish-coloured legs ; its body is covered with a strong
beetle-like coat, which renders it very difficult to kill ; it is three-jointed, and
the wings are something longer than the body : when viewed through a
powerful microscope,they appear beautifully reticulated with a plain border
fringed with hairs. This fly lodges in the ear, but seldom penetrates within
the glume ; but when that is opened by the finger where the moths are, these
little black flies, which are scarcely a tenth of an inch in length, and small in
proportion, attracted by the smell with which they seem to have been long
tantalised, come forward, feeling their way with their antennas, and often
pass the caterpillar without seeming to observe it, though within a hair's
breadth of touching it; but the moment they do touch the maggot with
their forehead they immediately become bent, and fix the anus on any part
of the maggot with which they come in contact. The maggot begins to
turn itself, and the fly extends her wings to balance herself, and remains
about a quarter of a minute, when it moves off* but sometimes returns to
repeat the operation two or three times. The fly often dies within two or
three days after her eggs are laid, but hitherto we have observed no differ-
ence between those maggots that have come in contact with the fly, and
those that have been secure from their touch. The ear of wheat becomes
parched on the infected side ; the caterpillar escapes and falls to the ground,
where it does not remain many minutes before it works itself under cover
nearly half an inch deep. Those that have lain a fortnight still move when
brought to light. The interest excited here by the ravages of this maggot
will excuse the apparent digression.

Barley which brairded on the 10th of May (p. 285.) came in the ear on
the 18th (69 days); mean temperature of that period 55°. The dry weather
in May and June caused the barley to spindle, and the ear appeared in the
same space of time it did last season, though there were "8° less temperature,
(p. 96.) Privet came in flower on the 14th; the Butomus urnbellatus
on the 1 5th ; the Xllium candidum came in flower on the 24th, and goose-
berries were ripe on the 29th, about a week later than last season : but a
week in the end of July is equal to two weeks in the end of September in
promoting the ripening process. There were 13 days of partial, and
5 days of clear, sunshine: in July, 13 days were cloudy, and there
were 10 days on which rain fell. The wind blew from the W., S.W., and
N.W. 19 days, and from the E. and N.E. 12 days. The air was exceed-
ingly dry before the rains in June, as may be observed by the unusual
difference between the mean temperature and point of deposition in the
Diagram ; and tender foliage of trees was in consequence much shrivelled.
Since the 10th of June the air has been unusually moist, often at saturation,
and foliage has a fresh and healthy appearance. The dew point is often
some degrees higher than the minimum temperature. On the last night of
July it was 52°; minimum temperature 46°: of course the moisture depo-
sited in the shape of dew was considerable.

Errata. — In my last Calendar, p. 284., in the sixth line below the Dia-
gram, write the word " under *' after " more than 5°; " in the fourth line
from the bottom, p. 285.," JVarcissus on the 56th," should be on the " 30th."
Those who have the Numbers will be kind enough to make these correc-
tions with the pen. — A. G.

DiAGBAM, showing the Motion of the Mercury in the Barometer and Ther-
mometer, and the Dew Point, or the mean of each, for each ten days in
August and September ; also the Depth of Rain in the Pluviometer, and
Quantity of Moisture evaporated from the Evaporating Gauge for the
same period; as extracted from the Register kept at Annat Gardens,
Perthshire, N. lat. 56° 23^, above the level of the sea 172 ft., and
15 miles from the coast, by the mean of daily observations at 10 o'clock
morning and 10 o'clock evening.

116

Calendar of Naivre.

481

i

o

60

Kain Gauge and Index of Thermometer

and Barometer. ;|

&0

1

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<u

c

1

.

^p

30

i

5

5

5

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iVv. — ......

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oo

o

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20

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^ §

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Aug.

August.

September.

Sept

In place of shading the columns, as in former Diagrams, dark lines are sub-
stituted to facilitate the engraving, and represent the depth in inches and
tenths of the moisture evaporated in the evaporating gauge, and of rain
that fell in the rair-gauge each ten days of the respective months. The
dotted line shows the mean temperature ; the line marked d shows the mean
point of deposition, or dew-point (see p. 284.); the double line b shows the
mean height of the mercurial column in the barometer for each ten days in
the two months. The mean temperature for July this year was 57*1^, for
August 55' 5° f and for September 50*5°. By turning back to p. 94. it will
be observed that the temperature in July last year was 4°, in August 3*6°,
and in September 6*1° higher than in the corresponding months this year.
The rain which fell this year in the months of July and August, and which
might be supposed to affect the ripening of the crops, was 9'6 in. : the depth
that fell in the two corresponding months of last year was only 4*6 in. This
comparatively low temperature and excessive moisture in the soil might have
led to the inference that the ripening of the crops would have been propor-
tionally later; and this holds true with regard to the leguminous pai't of the
crop, the ripening of fruits, and the progress of vegetation in general, excepit
the cerealia, which comprehend what is generally termed the " whitp
crop:" but when we take into consideration the structure of the plants

482^ Calendar of Nature.

composing this part of the crop, we will be able to account for this apparent
phenomenon. It will be recollected, that during the months of April and
May, and the early part of June, the rains that fell were far short of the usual
average, and evaporation during that period was excessive. It is an invariable
law in the vegetable kingdom, that when a plant receives a check, either
by a wound, or a diminution of the ordinary supplies of nourishment, a
tendency to fructification is promoted, as if, aware of its approaching end,
it hasted to that state of maturity whereby the species might be preserved
and propagated. The leguminous crops form no exception to this law, but
are differently affected from the cerealia at different stages of their growth :
for though a diminution of moisture in the early part of June did force
them soon into flower, an after additional supply promoted their growth ;
new blossoms appeared, new pods were formed, and the season of maturity
was protracted, according to the degree of the existing temperature. Not
so the cerealia, which form only one ear; and that ear being formed was
not affected to the same extent by the future supplies of moisture. Hence,
because wheat, barley, and oats had formed the ear, which was either
developed, or what is locally termed in the shot-blade, before the rains, at
an earlier period than would have been the case under the same tempera-
ture with a greater supply of moisture at the root, this part of the crop was
not above a week later than last year in coming to the sickle in the lower
districts of Perthshire; but in the more humid highland glens, where the
same causes did not operate in the early months of summer, the ripening
process is later by three to four weeks than last year. The depth of rain
in September this year is 225 in. The coldest day in August was the 25th:
mean temperature of that day 51°; wind N.W. The warmest day in August
was the 31st ; mean temperature of that day 61 '5°; windE. The mercury
in the barometer was highest on the 31st, height 29'62 in.; and lowest on
the 27th, height 28*4 in., wind N.E. There were brisk gales of wind from
the N.W. on the 24th and 25th; range of the thermometer from 42° to
72° in the shade.

The coldest day in September was the 28th: mean temperature'[46°;
wind N.W. Warmest day 26th : mean temperature 57°; wind W. The
mercury in the barometer was highest on the 1st; height 29'54in., wind
N.W. : lowest on the 6th; height 28*65 in., wind W. There were loud
gales of wind from the W. and N.W. on the 2 1st, 22d, 23d, 28th, and 29th ;
range of the mercury in the thermometer from 38° to 65°.

Calendar of Nature for tJie Carse of Goivrie, Perthshire.

On the 4th of August, very heavy rain, which continued for twenty-seven
hours without intermission, was accompanied at its commencement with
vivid flashes of forked lightning and loud and long-continued peals of
thunder, and violent wind from the N.E., v/ith the temperature as low as
46°', the rain that fell amounted to 1*40 in. On the 27th, during twenty-
four hours, about 2*25 in. of rain fell, with the wind from the same quarter.
The general characteristic of the weather throughout the month was moist
with a clouded atmosphere; there being 17 days cloudy, 7 days of partial
sunshine, and only 7 days in the month of clear sunshine ; the wind blew
from the N. and E. 13 days, and from the N. and W. 18 days. The
Digitalis ferruginea came in flower on the 1st, the Scabiosa succisa on the
8th, the Coreopsis verticillata on the 10th, the ^'ster ^melius on the 11th.
Barley that came in the ear on the 26th of June was ripe on the 21st, a
period of 56 days, mean temperature of that period 56-6° ; under a tem-
perature of 59*4°, last year, barley ripened from the time of earing in 49
days; difference of time 7 days, and of heat 2*6°. (p. 96.) The flowers
of the Colchicum autuinnale appeared above ground on the 24th, nearly
two weeks later than last year ; cabbage plants brairded on the 26th that had
been sown on the 17th, 9 days: mean temperature of that period 54*6.
The I3occ6ni« ^uercifolia was in flower on the 29th ; and wheat that came

Itetrospective Criticism. 483

in the ear on the 22d of June was cut ripe on the last day of the month, a
period of 70 days : mean temperature of that period 56'6°.

The weather continued moist during the first 10 days of September, and
the atmosphere mostly cloudy; from that period the atmosphere was
clearer, and brisk gales of wind were frequent, and much of the crops were
got in, in good condition ; with the exception of beans, the ground was
clear by the 28th in the Low Carse. In September there were 15 days
of brilliant sunshine, 7 days of partial sunshine, and 8 days cloudy. The
tiger lily came in flower on the 1st; ripe figs were pulled on the 2d;
Spanish broom flowered on the 4th ; Moorpark apricots ripening only on
one side. Green-gage plums were ripe on the 17th, white Beurre pears on
the 29th. Elruge nectarines not yet ripe. The sportsmen find the game
scarce. Few young partridges have been hatched, and the skeletons of
several dams have been found in the nest by the reapers. Hares are not so
plenty as usual ; the young are still feeble. Swallows have disappeared,
and the sea-mews appear in myriads on ploughed fields. Few wildgeese
have as yet reached their winter quarters in the Low Carse. — Sept. 30.

Art. IV. Retrospective Criticism.

JErrata. — Page 502. line 15. for " Capucaila" read " Capercaile," the
common name of the mountain cock. Retrospective critics should be free
from errors, and (to use a common proverb) " ought to sweep before their
•own doors." — B. C.

Page 275. line 27. for " A^ca A'lce" read " AlcaA^lle;" and after
"species" add « of Petrel."

The Water-Shrew. — Sir, The description given by Mr. Dovaston of the
water-shrew (p. 219.), will, I think, lead to some interesting facts in the
natural history of British shrews. I am inclined to think that the animal there
described differs from the Sorex fodiens, given by Stark as a synonyme of
the /Sorex Daubentonii of Geoffi'oy, and what the author supposes it to be.
The characters of the former are black above, and cinereous or ash colour
beneath, ears and eyes very small, its length is nearly 6 in., snout long and
small, it burrows near water, and, according to Berkenhout (Sj/nopsis of the
Nat. Hist, of G}'eat Britain^ 1789), inhabits Lincolnshire. Now I have seen
(though I have not yet been able to procure a specimen) a water-shrew that
very nearly answered this description, in the moors of Lanarkshire, which
correspond very nearly, in physical characters, with the fens of Lincolnshire.
But the 56rex Daubentonfi, Le Greber (digger) of Pallas and of Vicq
d'Azyr, besides the character of its ear being provided with three small
valves, capable of shutting it entirely, which would have presented to the
eye of Mr. Dovaston the appearance of being buried in the fur, has the
toes of the feet bordered with stiff hairs, the tail square-shaped, a little
shorter than the body, the fur blackish above and white below ; it sleeps
during the day, and hunts in the evening and morning ; its length is only
o in. The animal seen by Mr. Dovaston answers this description ; according
to this gentleman, the belly and throat were of the purest silver white,
distinguishing it from the S. 6'ollurio, the ears were almost buried in fur,
length about 3 in,, tail shorter, being not quite 2 in., the claws fringed with
very fine bristles; it was never seen till near sunset, once only at noon.
Pennant describes the S. fodiens, which, in its length, and in the presence of a
dusky spot near the tail, would approximate to this species. The error will be
traced, I suspect, to the fact of two distinct species having been confounded;
and if this were the case, this little animal would be the representative of the
true musaraigne d^eau of the French writers, first noticed by Pallas, and since
admitted into systems by the name of ^orex Daubentonii, with which the
5orex fodiens would not be connected as synonymous, but left apart, as a
well-marked and distinct British species. Yours, &c. — William Ainsworth.
U. Gardener's Crescent, Edinburgh, Sept. 1829.

4*8 4 Queries and Answers.

Art. V. Queries and Anstvers.

A Pair of Butcher Birds {Ldnius Collurio, m, etf. ?). — About three years
ngo, a pair of butcher birds were observed building in this neighbourhood, and
were watched till their eggs were on the point of hatching and then snared.
These birds have since come into my possession, and on comparing thenj
with the plates and descriptions in Bewick's sixth edition of Land Birds, 1
find the male agrees precisely with that of the red-backed shrike, p. 75.,
and the female with the one at p. 75., which is there called the woodchat;
but in the appendix, p. 377., where another figure of the woodchat is given
from a specimen in the collection of Mr. Leadbeater, is the following para-
graph in allusion to this figure : — "At page 75. is given a figure of a shrike,
which, judging from that of BufFon, appears to be the female of the wood-
chat ; hence it may be concluded, that if the female is found in this country,
so in all probability is the male also." Now as this appears to be the only
reason Mr. Bewick had for stating this bird to be the female woodchat
(Lanius riifus), I suppose that he is in error, and that the figures at p. 73.
and 75. are the male and female red-backed shrike (Lanius Collurio). I have
never seen a specimen of the woodchat known to have been killed in
Britain; but, perhaps, some of your readers will be able to throw a little
light upon both these points. — W. Farrar, M.D. Barnsley, Aug. 1. 1829.

Peculiar Smell of the Greater Shrike. — Sir, Can any of your correspond-
ents account for the peculiar smell which proceeds from the greater shrike
(L. excubitor) after death, and which is not unlike the smell which arises'
from the explosion of gunpowder? 1 have noticed the same peculiarity in
the nuthatch (5'ltta europae^a), but in a much less degree. Yours, &;c. — A. N.
July 21. 1829.

The Storks in Germany. — Sir, In Lower Germany there is a singulai'
belief concerning the storks {abus, as the Low Germans call them), which
build on the ridges of the thatched houses in the flat and marshy parts of
Germany. It is, that they pay the master of the house for leave to build
their nests on his roof; the first year they pay a quill feather, some say cut
into a pen ; the second, an egg; and the third year a young one; the fourth
year they begin with the feather again, and so on as long as the same pair
continue to build on the house. These payments they lay on the dung-
hill, which stands before what the Germans call the long door, like our barn
door; the barn and dwelling-house are under the same roof, the door for the
family is at the side.

This I was assured was the fact by several, but I could find none who
had seen it, they only knew somebody who had a nest and had been paid.
They think it a sign of good luck to have a nest, and, therefore, as soon as
they see a pair of storks flying about, they collect straw, &c., for them to
make their nest with. Perhaps some of your numerous correspondents can
speak to the truth or falsity of the fact. — G. H. Clapton, Aug. 28. 1829.

Softening the Skins of Birds. — Sir, I should feel greatly obliged to any of
your correspondents, if they would inform me, through the medium of your
Magazine, how to soften the skins of birds which have become dry and hard,
without injuring the feathers. Having received specimens in this state from
friends, who have been able to skin the bird, but not to mount it after-
wards ; I am at a loss how to restore suppleness, and am rather surprised
that in all the treatises which I have read on taxidermy, I have not found
any instructions upon a point so necessary to be known by preservers of
subjects of natural history. I am. Sir, &c. — .7. A. H.

Acilius pumilehiis. — What are the habits of this insect, which is said to
prove ruinous to the wheat crops in particular situations ? ^-P.S. Ber-
wickshire, August, 1829.

Queries and Answers, 4b 5

'The Zimb. — I have lately read that the effects produced by this insect,
both on man and beast, are of a dreadful nature. Bruce, in his Travels iw
Africa, says, " As soon as this winged assassin appears, and his buzzing is
heard, the cattle forsake their food, and run wildly about the plain till they
are worn out with fatigue, fright, and pain." I shall feel obliged if any of
your correspondents can inform me to what order this terrible insect belongs,
with a description of its habits, and the method of producing the fatal
effects ascribed to it. Is it not the ^7/ mentioned by the prophet Isaiah,
ch. vii. V. 18. and 19. ? — W. H. White. Bedford, June 9. 1829.

Spinning Slugs, (p. 69. and .303.) — Sir, Careful observers of natural pheno-
mena may doubtless find many opportunities of observing slugs spin. I,
without pretending to be more than a casual observer, and having but few
opportunities, have witnessed it more than once ; and I can state from actual
observation, that slugs do climb up trees at this time of the year (July), and
particularly in warm damp weather, and suspend themselves by a slimy
cord from a branch ; but that it is not done for any purpose implied in, or
that could be inferred from, your correspondent's article; it is for the purpose
of copulation, and I believe all our indigenous slugs procreate in the same
manner. I have never seen snails shooting love shafts at each other; I should
be glad I did, being rather sceptical on that head. Perhaps some of your
correspondents could give some information as to what time of year and in
what situations they might be observed. I am, Sir, &c. — J. B, Liverpool,
July 10. 1829.

Flora Virgiliana. — Sir, Your correspondent W. (p. 401.) expresses a de*
sire that you should furnish us with a complete Flora Virgiliana. " I should
like," he says, " to see all the weeds included;" a desire in which every
botanist, as well as scholar, will be ready to join. It were, indeed, devoutly
to be wished ; for we should then, with W., " recur with a new pleasure to
our old acquaintance," —

" Lappaeque tribulique; interque nitentia culta
Infelix lolium,*' &c.

Till something of the kind be effected, schoolboys are under the neces-
sity of rendering these words, not by their real appropriate names, but by
those of some analogous weeds of their own country, and their masters are
unable to teach them better. My schoolmaster, Mr. Editor, was a botanist
as well as a scholar; and as I had early imbibed a love for natural history,
the georgic lesson was always a pleasure to me, — I believe I may say, to
both of us. Still, however, even with the help of Martyn's edition, which
he always had before him on the occasion, and kindly allowed me to con-
sult, we were sometimes at a fault ; the Roman plants seemed often to
defy us to identify them, and Virgil and Linnaeus were not easily to be re-
conciled.

Your correspondent having dismissed the weeds, goes on to say, " In the
mean time, until difficulties be cleared away, let us rejoice in the"

— — " biferique rosaria Paesti :
Et virides apio ripae, tortusque per herbam
......... cucumis ; nee sera comantem

Narcissum, BXit Jlexi . . . vhnen acanthi,^* Sec.

From the manner in which these lines are introduced, I am almost in-
clined to think that your correspondent sees no difficulties here, and is sa-
tisfied as to the species of all the plants enumerated in this passage. But
does it not present us with some obscurities as great as those in which the
weeds before mentioned are involved ? What species, for instance, is meant
by « sera comantem narcissum? " Most, if not all the iViarcissi, are, with

486 Queries find Atiswers.

us at least, early spring flowers. I almost fancy I have somewhere read (or
else the idea itself has occurred to my mind), that no species of narcissus or
daffodil was intended, but rather Amaryllis lutea, the yellow autumnal lily.
Be this as it may, however, at least " flexi vimen acanthi " was always a
great puzzler, and has afforded much matter for discussion among the learned.
On referring to Martyn's Georgics, I see it suggested, from the impossibility
of finding any one plant with which all the characters ascribed to acanthus
will agree, that the poet in all probability speaks in different passages of two
distinct plants under that name, the one a tree, and the other an herb.
From the well-known anecdote about the origin of the Corinthian capital,
we might be led, reasonably enough, to identify the acanthus of the ancients
with tile Linnean genus of the same name. On the other hand. Sir J.
Smith, if I remember right (for I cannot immediately refer to the passage),
strenuously contends that the acanthus of Virgil is no other than the com-
mon holly ( riex Jquifolium). Possibly this great botanist, when he broached
such an opinion, might not have sufficiently attended to the various pas-
sages of Virgil in which the acanthus is mentioned, and the apparently dis-
cordant accounts given of it. For, as Professor Martyn observes, in one
place Virgil speaks of it as a tree that bears berries, and is always green :

" baccas semper frondentis acanthi." {Georg. ii. 119.)

Again, in Georg. iv. 123. already quoted, he seems to speak of it as a twining
plant, and a little afterwards he mentions it as a garden plant :

" Ille comam mollis jam tum tondebat acanthi."

The epithet mollis is surely quite inapplicable to the holly, and except by
way of contrast (as Linnaeus employs it in naming one species), almost
equally so to the modern genus Acanthus. It is a remark, perhaps too ob-
vious to mention, that much allowance must be made for the heightening
of poetical diction, and that the same accuracy of botanical description must
not be looked for in the beautiful lines of the Mantuan bard, as we may
fairly expect in the Spdcies Plantdrum of the great Swede. On these and
similar knotty points, Mr. Editor, I should be glad of further information,
through the pages of your Magazine. Yours, &c. — B. Coventry, Sept. 8.

The Specimen of the Shrub from Clare-
monty sent by Miss C. Watson, in order to ^ ' ^ V I /* >»

ascertain its name, is the Grevillea (in com- /n^\ W^ k^f

memoration of the Right Hon. Charles Gre- ^^/S^^TTiJ^^' ^^5

ville) punicea, Y'voiedcecE {fig. 1 17.), an ele- A /f^2^^^^^P
gant shrub introduced a few years ago from M^^ W\^^^^ ^^^^^
New South Wales, and usually kept in the ^^^%^^^^^L^^^^
green-house. If gathered in the open shrub- ^v^ Ji\^i^^^^^^^
bery, as our correspondent says it was, it ^^^^^^BHB^P
must have been turned out there for the ^M^^^^^^^S^g^
summer season, or by way of experiment. ^^^^^^^^^>^^

— Cond, 111

Fossil Plants. — The enclosed drawings {fig. 118.) are a continuation of
the fossil plants found in the Little Mine Coal in Clifton, near Manchester.
The figures a^b, c, </, e, and/, I have not been able to meet with in any
other mine; they are drawn the full size, and, with the exception of/, in
nearly the same situation as when found. I have met with the plant g in
most mines in Lancashire. I. should feel greatly obliged, if any of your
readers would inform me to what order and genus they belong. Yours, &c.

— B. St. Helen's J June 4. 1829.

QjKen'es and A?iswcrs.

4<S7

488

Queries and Answers,

TJie Dadiey*s Spring. — Sir, The corn spring in this parish, which I
gave a short notice of, p. 297. of your Magazine, I visited on the 21st of
August, and found that it had entirely ceased to flow. The exact period of
its cessation I am unable to state ; but I know that it was flowing about the
middle of June or later, though with a somewhat diminished stream. From
the appearance which the channel presented on the 21st of August, I should
suppose the spring must have ceased to flow for at least a fortnight or more.
Is it not fair to infer that its operations may have been stopped by the long
continued drought in the early part of the summer ? The late heavy rains
have probably not yet had time to produce a counter effect. Allow me to
remark, that your printer has committed a slight mistake in the orthography
of the name of the above-mentioned spring : it should be Dudley's spring,
not Dudley's^ as printed at p. 297. Yours, &c. — W. T. Bree, Alledey
Rectory., August 26. 1829.

The Corn Spring (p. 297. 408). — May not this be accounted for on
the principle of the intermitting springs explained in the Library of Useful
Knowledge.^ under Hydrostatics ? — John Meaims, Shobden Courty near Leo-
minster., Sept. 27. 1829.

Muphatamefs Optical Phenomenon (p. 108.) is perfectly easy of solution,
without having recourse to any supposition about the effect of refraction.
No shadows can be visible unless produced by bodies obstructing the rays or
stream of light, whether from the body or from the reflected image of the
sun. The first and darkest shadow was that of the passenger on the wall,
produced in the ordinary way {fig. 119. a). The second was the shadow of

119

the same passenger {b\ produced by the obstruction of the stream of re-
flected light from the sun's image presented on the watery surface of the
street, as shown in the diagram annexed. As proof of this, let any one
stand between a wall and a piece of water (or looking-glass laid on the ground
in the Hue of the sun), so as the spectator can see both the sun and the
sun's image at the same time ; he will have a double shadow on the walls
quite visible to himself or others. This effect is often seen, or may be seen,
in well-lighted rooms where there are plate looking-glasses or mirrors.
— J, M,

I N D EX

TO

BOOKS REVIEWED AND NOTICED.

THE GENERAL SUBJECT.

Annales des Sciences Naturelles, 53.
Bowdich's Excursions dans les Isles de Madtre,

&c. 54.
Brown's Microscopical Observations, reviewed.

Bulletin des Sciences Naturelles, 53.

Cuvier's Progres des Sciences Naturelles, 53.

Deleuze's Museum Royal d'Hist. Naturelle, .'54.

Dictionnaire Classique d'Histoire Naturelle, 53.

Dictionnaire des Sciences Naturelles, 53.

Ehrenberg's Reisen Naturhistorische, &c. 59.

Guide au Museum d'Histoire Naturelle et du
Jardin du Roi, 54

Hemprich and Ehrenberg's Natur-geschicht-
liche Reisen, &c. 59.

Hewlett's Scripture Natural History, 49.

Hinton's Elements of Natural History, noticed,
193. ''

Humboldt's Rede gehalten, &c. 59.

Humboldt's Tableaux de la Nature, 54.

Journal of a Naturalist, rev. 180.

Kreyssig's Erfahrungstheorie der Pflanzen-und-
Thierproducten, 59.

Maximilian's Abbildungen zur Naturgeschichte
Brasiliens, 59.

M^moires de la Soci^t^ d'Histoire Naturelle de
Paris, 54.

Murray's Beauties of Switzerland, not. 360.

Naumann's Encyclopadie der Specielien Natur-
geschichte, 365.

Nenning's Lehrbuch der Gesammten Na.
turlehre, 365.

Planches de Seba, 53.

Pliny's Natural History proposed to be trans-
lated, 61.

Rutter's North-western Division of Somerset-
shire, &c., announced, 61.

Saigry et Raspail's Annales des Sciences d'Ob-
servation, noticed, 193,

Saintfond's Histoire Naturelle de la Montagne
Saintpierre de Maestricht, 54.

Stark's Elements of Natural History, 49: no-
ticed, 188.

Transactions of the Linnean Society, 49.

Trimmer's Natural History of Quadrupeds, 49.

Wilbrand and Ritsen's Picture of organised
Nature».j!vc., rev. 342,

ZOOLOGY.

Ajasson de Grandsaigne's Resume d'lchthy-
ologie, 365.

Bennett's Fishes of Ceylon, No. HI. rev. 453.

Blainville's Manuel de Malacologie, &c. 55.

Boitard's Manuel d'Entomologie, 55,

Burrow's Elements of Conchology, 359.

Butterfly Collectors Vade Mecum, noticed, 238,

Carus's Introduction to the Comparative Ana-
tomy of Animals, 358,

Conchologist's Companion, The, 359,

Conversations on Entomological Subjects, 52.

Cours d'Histoire Naturelle, 54.

Curtis's British Entomology, 50.

Curtis's Guide to an Arrangement of British
Insects, rev. 453.

Cuvier, F.'s Dents (des) MammifJ;res, 54.

Cuvier, F.'s, Histoire Naturelle des Mammi-
f^res, 54. 364.

Cuvier's R^gne Animal, noticed, 360.

Cuvier and Valenciennes's Histoire Naturelle

des Poissons, 55.
Dejean's Coleopttres, 55.
Desmarest's Crustac^s, 56.
Donovan's Nests and Eggs of British Birds,

reviewed, 452.
Dumeril's Classe des Insectes, 55.
Duperrey's Voyage Zoologique, 54. 364,
Duponchel's Hist Natur, des Lepidopt^rcs

Nocturnes, 55.
Duponchel's Lepidopt^res de France, 365.
Eloquet's Faune des M^decins, 54.
Faune Frangaise, 54 j rev, 362.
Fischer's Tentamen Conspectus Cantharidi-

arum, 59.
Gardens and Menagerie of the Zoological So-
ciety, announced, 193 ; noticed, 241.
Geoffroy, Saint Hilaire's Cours de Hist. Natur,

des Mammif^res, 54,
Goring and Pritchard's Objects for the Micro-

scope, &c., noticed, 189.
Griffith's Animal Kingdom, 358.
Guerin's Iconographiedu Regne Animal de M

le Baron Cuvier, not. 361.
Hermann's Mt'moire Apt^rologique, 5,5.
Horsfield's Lepidopterous Insects, 359.
Jardine's Illustrations of Ornithology, 51,
Lact^pede's Histoire Naturelle de 1' Homme, 54,
Lalanne's Manuel Entomologique, .55,
Lea's six new species of U'nio, 366,
Le Keux's Illustrations of Natural History,

noticed, 359.
Lepelletier's Monographia Tenthredinetarum,

55.
Lesson's Complement des OEuvres de Buffon,

54, 364.
Lesson's Oiseaux-Mouches, 364.
Levaillant's Histoire Naturelle des Perroquets,

55.
L'Herminier's Recherches sur I'appareil sternal

des Oiseaux, 55.
Lichtenstein's Saugethiere zu Berlin, 59.
Meigen's Europaische Sclimetterlinge, noticed,

59.
Menageries, the, noticed, 188,
Pfeiffers I.and-un Stirtwas^er Mollusken, 60.
Picturesque Guide through the Regent's Park,

announced, 193,
Polydore Roux's Ornithologie Proven gale, 55.
Price's Physiognomy of the present Inhabitants

of Britain, &c., 359.
Richardson's Fauna Boreali- Americana, &c ,

noticed, 352.
Robineau Desvoidy's Organisation verttbrale

des Crustac(^'S, &c., 56.
Roux's Crustac^s de la Mediterranee, 565.
Roux's Ichnographie Conchyliologique, 365.
Rudiments of Conchology, noticed, 52.
Schmetterling's Cabinet fur Kinder, not, 59.
Sowerby's Genera of Recent and Fossil Shells,

50,
Steffens's Anthropologic, 54,
Stephens's Catalogue of British Insects, an-
nounced, 61,
Stejjhens's Illustrations of British Entomology,

Stephens's Nomenclature of British Insects,
noticed, 453.

Vol. IL — No. 10.

K K

490

INDEX TO BOOKS UEVIEWED AND NOTICED.

Stephens's Systematic Catalogue of British In-
sects, noticed, 453.

Swainson's Zoological Illustrations, noticed, 51.

Sweet's British Warblers, noticed, 50.

Temminjk's Planches d'Oiseaux, 54.

Thompson's Zoological Researches, noticed, 51 ;
announcement of the second number of, 61.

Tower Menagerie, noticed, 50.

Vigors's Zoological Journal, noticed, 49.

Wagler's Systeraa Avium, 59.

Werner's Atlas des Oiseaux d'Europe, 55.

Werner's Oiseaux d'Europe, 364.

Wilson's Illustrations of Zoology, No, VII., re-
viewed, 452.

BOTANY.

Alman's Analysis'of the Genera of Plants, 52.

BischofF's Kryptogamische Gewachse, 60. 3G5.

Bishop's Casual Botanj', publishing by subscrip-
tion, S66.

Blume's Flora Javse, &c., 365.

Brand and Ratzeburg's Deutschen Giftge-
wiichse, 60.

Brongniart's Classification Naturelledes Cham-
pignons, !>7.

Burgess's Eidodendron, noticed, 52.

Cassini's Opuscules Phytologiques, 56.

Conversations on Vegetable Physiology, noticed,
360 ; rev iewed, 454.

Curtis's Botanical Magazine, 52.

DecandoUe's Families des Crassulac^es, &c., 5a

Decandolle's Families des M^lastomac^es, 56.

Decandoile's Mcmoires du Rfegne V^g^tal, 56.

Decandolle's Plantes raresdu Jardin de Geneve,
56.

Descourtilz's Flore des Antilles, 365.

Deslongchamps's Flora Gallica, .^7.

Dierbach's Beitrllge zu Deutschlands Flora, 365.

Edwards's Botanical Register, 52.

Fingerhuth's Tentamen Florulas Lichenum
EiffliaCa^, 365.

Flora Danica, 472.

Flora Medica, 52.

Freycinet's Voyage Botanique, 57.

Fries's Elenchus Fungorum, 60.

Graffenauer's Trait(5 .sur le Camphre, 57.

Henslow's British Plants, 359.

Hooker's Botanical Miscellany, noticed, 193.

Hooker and Greville's I'cones /^ilicum, review-
ed, 454.

Humboldt and Bonpland's Voyage Botanique,
365.

Johnston's Flora of Berwick upon Tweed, no-
ticed, 193 ; reviewed, 234.

Jussieu's Famille des Euphorbiac^es, 56.

Jussieu's M(5thode Naturelle des Vegetaux, 56.

Kunth's Revision des Graminees, 566.

Kunth's Synopsis Plantarum, &c., 57.

Labillardi&re's Novje Hollandia Plantarum Spe-
cimen, 56.

Labillardidre's Sertum Austro.Caledonicum, 56.

Lachmann's Flora Brunsviccnsis, 60.

L. B. D., M.'s, Lettres a Madame de C***, sur
la Botanique, &c., .56.

Ledebour's Iconcs Plantarum Novarum, 366.

Lindlcy's Fossil Flora of Great Britain, an-
nounced, 454.

Lindley's Introductory Lecture on Botany, no-
ticed, 359.

Lindley's Synopsis of the British Flora, &c.,
noticed, 189.

Link and Otto's Icones Plantarum, &c., 365.

Linnasus's Systema Vegetabilium, &c., 60.

Loddiges's Botanical Cabinet, 52.

Loudon's Encyclor>a»dia of Plants, noticed, 240.

Maund's Botanic Garden, 52.

Michaux's Flora Boreali- Americana, &c., 57.

Michaux's Histoire des Ch6nes de I'Amerique,

Mirbel's E'k'mens de Fhysiologie Vegdtale, &c.,

56.
Reinwardt's Vegetation auf den Inseln des In-

dischen Archipels, &c., 60.
Richard's Coniftres tt Cycad^es, &c., 56.
Saint. Amans's Flore Agenaise, 57.

Saint-Hilaire, &c.'s Flora Brasiliffi Meridionalis,

57.
Schrader's Blumenbachia, novum e Loasearum

familia genus, 60.
Smith's Natural History of many British Plants,

&c., announced, 61,
Smith's Plants in South Kent, noticed, 240.
Sprengel's Tentamen Supplementi ad Systematis

Vegetabilium Linnseani, &c., 365,
Stevenson and Churchill's Medical Botany, 52.
Stoltz's Flore du Haut et du Bas-Rhin, &c., 57.
Sweet's British Flower- Garden, 52.
Sweet's Cistinese, 52.
Sweet's Geranikceae, 52.
Trattinick's Pelargonien DeutschenUrsprunges,

Vaucher's CcnfeiTes d'Eau, 57.

Villars's Catalogue du Jardin Botanique de

Strasbourg, 57.
Villars, &c.'s. Voyage Botanique en Suisse, &c.,

56.
VVallich's PlantasAsiaticee Rariores, announced,

61.
Wallroth'>! Rosas Plantarum, &c., 60.
Willdenow's Historia Amaranthorum, 56.
Wonders of the Vegetable Kingdom displayed,

360.

GEOLOGY AND MINERALOGY,

Aubuisson's Basaltes de la Saxe, 59.
Bakewell's Geology, reprinting in America, 366.
Beaumont's Coup dCEil sur les Mines, 58.
Bernhardi's Beitriige zur niiliern kenntniss, &c.,

60.
Bertrand-Roux's Description Geognostique du

Puy-en-Velai, &c., 58.
Beudant's Traits de Mineralogie, 58.
Beudant's Voyage Mineralogique en Hongrie, 58,
Blainville's M^moire sur les B^lemnites, .59.
Brard's E'lemens pratiques d'Exploitation, 58,
Breislack's Institutions G($ologiques, 57.
Brochant's De la Cristallisation, &c., 58.
Brongniart, Adolphe : Prodrome d'une Histoire

des Vegetaux Fossiles, 58.
Brongniart, Alex. : Introduction Ma Mineralo-

gio-, 58.
Brongniart, Alex. : Roches Homogenes et H^-

terogenes, 58.
Brongniart, Alex.: Terrains duVincen tin, &c.,

58.
Brongniart, Alex. : Terrains qui composent

I'E'corce du Globe, 58.
Brongniart and Desmarest's Crustaces Fossiles,

&c., 59.
Brongniart's Vi^g^taux Fossiles, 365.
Charpentier's Constitution Geognostique des

Pyreni^es, .58.
Cuvier's Revolutions of the Surface of the

Globe, &c., translated, 359.
D' Aubuisson's Traite de G^ognosie, 57,
Defrance's Corps organistrs fossiles, 58.
Desmoulins's Essai sur les Sph^rulites, 59.
Elie de Beaumont's Observations Geologiques,

&c., S65.
Guenyveau's Principes de M^tallurgie, 58,
Hartmann's Handworterbuch der Mineralogie

und Geognosie, 60.
Humboldt's Essai Geognostique surle Gisement

des Roches, 57.
Jiiger's Fossilreptilien in Wiirtcmberg, 60,
Joyce's Chimie Mintralogiquo, &c., 58.
Lariviiire'.sJMemoire sur un silicate, &c., 60.
Leonhard's Agenda Geognostica,announced,24l.
Manual of Mineralogy, noticed, 53.
Naumann's Lehrbuch der Mineralogie, 60.
Nilsson's PetrificJlta Suecana, &c., commenced,

366.
Ordinaire's Hist. Natur. des Volcans, 58.
Scrope's District Volcanique de Naples, 57.
Transactions of the Geological Society of Lon-
don, 53.
Ure's New System of Geology, 53.
Walchner's Handbuch der Mineralogie, 365.
Zanon's Del Nuovo Solfato di Soda et Magnesia,

&c., SG6.

GENERAL INDEX.

Abo, museum of natural history at, destroyed
by fire, 252.

Accentuation of names, 298.

Aerial spider, critique on Mr. Murray's paper
respecting, by John Blackwall, 116; critical
remarks on the ascent of the, by J. Murrav,
299 ; reply, by John Blackwall, S96.

JE'shna and Libtllula, distinguished, 472.

^sop, fables of, illustrated by Bewick, 431.

Agates in dolomitic strata of new red sandstone
formation in the Mendip Hills, 381.

Ainsworth, "William, on the water shrew, 483.

Air for analysis, 468.

Aix, the tertiary fresh-water formations of, 382.

Almanacks on the Continent, 248.

Animals, vertebrated, description of, 128 ; mam-
miferous, 131 ; changes in, 254 ; changes pro-
duced in by domestication, by Dr.Roulin, 421 ;
characters of, 469.

Annelides, respiration of some of, 423.

Annihilation of certain animals, 442,

A'nodon rugbsus, critique respecting, 116.

Anonaceous plant of Mew Holland, 119.

Antelope, Indian, 63; flat-horned, 63.

Anthracite found in Rhode Island, 253.

-Antirrhinum Cymbalkria in Wales, 400.

Ants and aphides, 209.

Aphis on endive and lettuce, query respecting,
by Walter HeJiry Hill, 104 ; remarks on, 210.

Artesian well at Syon, 87.

Ashby, Mr. John, obituary of, 120.

Attachments formed by animals, 62.

Audubon, M., his Birds of South America, 422.

Azara's Memoirs, query respecting, 402.

Babington, C. C, distinction of sex in Papilio
Machkore, 67.

Babington, Mr., remarks on his list of rare
plants and insects, by Daniel Stock, 213.

Bakewell, Robert, an account of Mr. Needham's
original discovery of the action of the pollen
of plants, &c., 1 ; remarks on molecules, 213.

Ball containing bees, query by H. Gunt, 404.

Banksian Society of Manchester, 389.

Baris, ship, made of papyrus, 326.

Barmouth, insects taken at, 89.

Basil, wild, in Chile, query respecting a curious
species of, 293.

Bears of America, 355.

Beaver, ingenuity of one at Paris, 249.

Bee, leaf-cutting," 90.

Bees, on putting into mourning, 105; super-
stitions respecting, 209 ; nests of, in the woods
of Brazil, 254 ; superstition respecting, 405 ;
swarming of, 460.

Beet-root sugar manufacture ia France, 425.

Belfast, natural history in, 202.

Beudant, M., discovery in mineralogy, 410.

Bewick, life, genius, and personal habits of, by
John F. M. Dovaston, A.M., 313; continued,
428.

Bird, call of some kind of, answer to query re-
specting, by Walter Henry Hill, 100; water,
query respecting a strange one, 101 ; in De-
vonsliire like a humming-bird, query respect-
ijig, 402 ; shot at Fowey, answer to query
respecting the, by Walter Henry Hill, 403.

Birds, on their forsaking their nests, by R.
Sweet, 113; critique respecting their singing

' while on their eggs, by R. Sweet, 113; Euro-
pean singing, query respecting, 207 ; termino-
logy of, arranged by Thomas Thomson, 214 ;
rare, account of some in the Manchester Mu-
seum, by John Blackwall, 273; in the neigh-
bourhood of Whitehaven, by J. Stanley, M.D.,
275; rare, shot in Dumfries-shire, 282; En
glish, suggestion for letters to be written on,

K

287 ; presented to the Hull Literary and Phi-
losophical Society, error rosj)ecting the de-
scription of, by Thomas Thompson, 302 ; of
Demerara, 370 ; organs of voice in, 376 ; of
prey, vision of, 481 ; on the sea coast of Gom-
rie, in Aberdeenshire, 392; rare, killed in
different parts of Ireland. 394 ; skins of, query
on softening, 484.

Bittern, the great American, 64.

Black, antipathy of the chameleon to, 469.

Blackcock, curious female of, 90.

Blackwall, John, account of some rare birds in
the Manchester Museum, 273; farther con-
troversy on the ascent of the aerial spider, 2^^^

Blainville, M. de, observations on Physalia, 425.

Bleating of a goat, remarks on the bird which
produces the sound of, 207, 208.

Blindworm, query respecting, 402,

Blocks, rock, 471.

Blomer, Capt. Charles, the Dartmouth Warbler,
and other birds, 278 ; a singular nidus, 303.

Bones, fossil, caverns containing, 367 ; note by
J. R., 367.

Books, French, cheaper in London than for-
merly, 361.

Botanical Society of Bungay, 386.

Botany and zoology of Indian archipelago, 368

Bounties of winter, 455.

Bowdich, Mrs., anecdotes of a Diana monkey,
7 ; progress of natural history during 1828, 409.

Bowman, J. E., an efficacious method of drying
plants, 245 ; query on a singularly brilliant
golden green light, 406.

Brabant, fossil bones in, 251.

Brain, observations respecting, 418 ; physiologi-
cal fact respecting, 472.

Brazil, supposed bees' nests in the woods of, 254.

Breadfruit, error in the description of, .'>04.

Bree, the Rev. W. T., M. A., on the arrival and
retreat of the British /firundines, with a table
of arrivals and departures from 1800 to 1828,
16 ; the dog not the only brute animal that
dreams, 21 J; circumstances respecting the
nuthatch, 243 ; circumstances respecting a
corn spiing, 297 ; critique respecting Fritil-
l^ria tessel.ita, 304 ; the vapourer moth, 460 ;
observation respecting Dadley's spring, 488. ,

Bristol Institution, annual meeting of, 277.

Brongniart, M. Adolphe, improvement by, in
the study of fossil botany, 413; his statement
respecting the pollen of tlov\ ers, 417.

Brown, John, query respecting spiders not
being found on chestnut timber, 291.

Bruce's observation on vessels of papyrus, 326.

BufTon, inaccuracies of, 394.

Bunting, black-headed, query respecting, 289;
answer to query respecting, 404.

BuUmus actitus and Helix virgata, 303.

Butcher bird, critical observations respecting,
and query by W. Farrar, M D., 484.

Butterflies, migration of, 370 ; white, of Britain
by J. Rennie, A.M., A.L.S., 224; query re-
specting the eggs of, by D. G. Kerridge, 40.5.

Butterfly or moth, first developement of a per-
fect one, 63; the common large cabbage, 226;
the early cabbage, 226 ; the small cabbage,
227; the spotless small cabbage, 227; the
green-veined white, 227 ; the middle green-
veined white, 228; the Bath white, 228 ; the
orange-tip butterfly, 228; the wood white,
229; the black-veined white, 229; the brim-
stone butterfly, 229.

Cachalot, account of the capture of a, on the
south coast, by Henry Woods, A.L S. &c. 198.

Calendar of nature for the Carse of Gowrie,
Perthshire, 203. 285. 477 to 483.

K 2

492

GENERAL INDEX.

Caley, Mr. George, obituary of, 310.

Camel, 63.

Canterbury Philosophical Institution, S83.

Capcrcaile, errata respecting, 483.

Carlisle, arrival of certain birds of passage in
the neighbourhood of, 89.

Carse of Gowrie, calendar of nature for, 285.

Cavern containing fossil bones, 367.

Cedar, query respecting, 293.

Centr5ti s iienntt» and Hardw ckw, outline and
description of, by the Rev. Wm. Kirby, 20.

Chameleon's antipathy to black, 469.

Charcoal, fossil, accounted for, 466.

Chatham, Literary and Philosophical Institu-
tion of, 267 ; meeting of Sept. 29th, 383.

Cherokee nation, advancement of, 426.

Chevalier and LenglumiJ's litliography, 410.

Chevreul, M., discovery made by, 410.

Chiff-chaff, the, the lesser white throat, 481.

Child, spotted, 1^56.

Chile horse, 62.

China, natural history in, 368.

ChPanius vestitus, tarsus of, 302.

Christiana and Leith, temperature of, 367.

Cimex, the genus, 459.

Circular system extended to events, 455.

Claremont, name of shrub sent from, 486.

Clarke, W. B., geological hammer, 247.

Coal-fields in Peru, 370.

Coal fossils from Clifton, near Manchester,
figured and described, 106.

Coal, vegetable remains in, 470.

Cochineal insect found in the Botanic Garden
at Cambridge, 386.

Cochineal transplanted to Java, 252.

Colour, flowers varying in, 485.

Colours in plants, Grew's theory of, 455 ; op-
tical influence of, 426.

Columba migratftria in America, 369.

Congress of the German naturalists, 79.

Continents, submergence of the, 250.

Conybeare, the Rev. W. D., F.G.S. &c. &c., on
the hydrographical basin of the Thames, 378.

Coral rocks, 371 ; limestone from, 297.

Cordilleras, 370.

Cork tree at Sammerstown, 91.

Corn spring, 408 ; circumstances respecting a,
297 ; supposed cause of, 488.

Cows, white, 63.

Crab, common, developementof the eggs of, 244.

Crocodile, on riding on the back of a, 13.

Crossbills, occasional visitants at Ambleside,
89 ; flocks of, near Worcester, 268.

Cross-hatching style of engraving, Bewick's
opinion on, 429.

Crow, query respecting a curious one, 101 ;
answers to the query respecting one seen,
288.

Crustacea, memoir on, 424.

Cuckoo, curious circumstance respecting the,
by W. Jerdan, 242 ; its species, 249.

Dadley's Spring, farther observation respecting
the, by the Rev. W. T. Bree, 488.

Dartford (read Dartmouth) warbler, 100.

Dartmouth warbler, Capt. Charles Blomer,278.

Davies, J. H., R. M., farther Observations on
the Influence of Fresh Water on Marine Ani-
mals, com. by Jas. L. Drummond, M.D., 217.

Death-watches, 461.

Decandolle, eulogium on, 453.

Delille's description of Thelygonum Cyno-
crambe, 418.

Demerara, birds of, 370.

Deposits, diluvian, 253.

Detrosier, Mr., his Address to the Banksian So-
ciety of Manchester, 390.

Devil Siingaree, query resi)ecting, 401.

Diana monkey, anecdotes of a, 9.

Diluvian deposits, 253.

Diodorus Siculus's " river boats " made from the
reed papyrus, 327.

Dissection performed by insects, 455.

Dodo, contributions towards the natural history
of, by John T. Thompson, F. L. S., 142 j de-
scription of, by Leguat, 445.

Dog, not the only brute animal that dreams, by
W. T. Bree, 213 ; derived from the wolf, 356.

Donovan's egg of the razor-bill auk, 394; Eggs
of British Birds, query respecting, 205.

Dovaston, John F. M., A.M., some account of
the water shrew, 219 ; some account of the
life, genius, and personal habits of the late
Thomas Bewick, 313; remarks respecting
.Sturnus Cinclus, 400; .Antirrhinum Cymba-
laria in Wales, 400.

Dover, tiie small, query respecting, 403.

Drummond, James, figure and description of a
cork tree at Sammerstown, 91.

Drummond, James L., M.D., on certain effects
produced by fresh waier on "some marine
animals and plants, 121.

Drying plants, an efScacious method of, by
J. E. Bowman, 245.

Dumfriesshire, rare birds shot in, 282.

Duncan, J. S., his address at anniversary of the
Linnean Society, May the 25th, 373; his proof
of the existence of the dodo, 444.

Durability of engraver's blocks, 430.

Dutrochc't, M., his new discovery in vegetable
physiology, 414.

Dyeing, discovery in, by M. Raymond, 410.

Earthworm, oviparous, 470.

Eggs of British birds, query on the best work
on, by J. D. Salmon, 205; answer to, 205 ; of
the common crab, developement of, 244 ; of
spiders, developement of, 244 ; of butterflies,
query respecting, by D. G. Kerridge, 405 j
of the wheat fly, 450.

Endosmometer, the, 415.

Engravings, list of, 205 ; of birds, 114.

£pipactis latif 61ia, on the spontaneous appear-
ance of, by W. T. Bree, 70,

Errata in Vol. I. 110. 299. 401 ; in Calendar of
Nature, 488 ; in the word Capucaila, 483.

Fables of /Esop, illustrated by Bewick, 431.

Farran, W., M. D., critical remark and query
respecting the Butcher Bird, 484.

Fauna, French, 424.

Feelings, on educating the, 286.

Fish-banks, ancient, near Lake Ontario, 253.

Fish like a herring, mode of preparing them
for a distant market, 65.

Fish, owl feeding on, suggestion as to the cir-
cumstance, 288 ; hearing of, 459.

Flints, query respecting minute objects on, 296.

Flbra Danica, 472.

Fldra Virgilillna, query respecting, 401. 485.

Floras, indigenous, of London and Plymouth
compared, by W. Hamilton, 265.

Flourens, M., researches in physiology, 419.

Flowers varying in colour, 485 ; white, the dis-
covery of plants varying with, by Mr. Daniel
Stock, 387.

Flycatcher in November, 88.

Flying leech, 368.

Foot of a supposed dodo, 444.

Fossil listeria figured and described, 73 ; bones
in Brabant, 251 ; like a broken nut, query re-
specting, 297 ; plant, a remarkable one, 376 ;
plants from Clifton near Manchester, continu-
ation of, 494 ; shell, from a quarry in Radnor
shire, figured and described, 109 ; shells, Bri-
tish,an attempt to form a table of the geological
arrangement of, by R. C. Taylor, Esq. F.G.S.,
26; geological arrangement of British, cor-
rections respecting the, by R. C. Taylor, Esq.-
216.

Fossils, Blackdown, sent by J. R., names of,
294 ; remarks on 294 ; sent by Sam. Tyssen,
described, 295, 296.

Foville, Dr., his memoir on the brain, 420.

France, man in the north of, 7.5.

Fritillaria tessellata, critique respecting, 304.

Frogs, query respecting their winter quarters,
and on a jelly-like substance resembling the
remains of, 103 ; winter quarters of, 208 ; an-
swer to query whether they are dormant in
winter, by W. H. White, 208 ; answers to
query respecting a jelly-like substance sup-
posed to be the remains 6f, 209 ; query on the

GENERAL INDEX.

49S

distinction of sex in, and which croaks, by

. W. H. White, H. M. C. S., 209; winter quar-
ters of, answer to the query respecting, 289 ;
shower of, query respecting, 103 ; suggestion
respecting, by J. Murray, 289.

Gall, Dr., his mode of studying the characters
of animals, 469.

Geese, desertion of, 65 ; flying, 65 ; wild, in
Owhyhee, 440.

Geological Society, meetings of Nov. 7., Nov. 21.,
Dec. 5., Dec. 16., and Jan. 2., 83 ; Jan. 16.. 197 ;
Feb. 6., 257 ; Feb. 20., 259 ; March 6.' and
April 3., 376; May 1., 377; May 15. and
June 5., 378 ; June 19., 381.

Geology of Palestine, critique respecting, 119 ;
scriptural, 108.

Germany, curious belief in, respecting the stork,
484.

Girl, dancing, 441.

Glow-worm, 406.

Glutton, American, 356.

Gnat, stinging of a, 68.

Goat, Cachemire, 63 ; the Rocky Mountain, ac-
count of, 358.

Goats of Thibet, 251.

Goitre, query respecting the cause of, 403.

Gold, washing of, 73 ; supposed influence of, on
sheep, 467.

Goldfinch, change of colour in its plumage, by
J. Murray, 64 ; natural intelligence of, 64.

Gomrie, birds on the sea-coast of, 392.

Goose, presentiment in a, by C. A. Brew, 65.

G6rdius aquaticus, 211

Gorrie, Mr. Archibald, C.M.H.S., some account
of a remarkable spruce fir tree in the woods at
Braco Castle, Perthshire, 173; on the art of
deriving interest from the study of the wea-
ther, 177 ; a dissertation on the Hebrew names
of animals, 319 ; on the wheat fly, 323.

Granite in Yorkshire, 120.

Grasshopper warbler wanted, 100.

Gray's natural arrangement of British plants,
remarks respecting, 216.

Greenfinch, yellow, 64.

Grevillea punicea, figured and described, 486.

Grew's theory of colours in plants, 455.

Guillemot, sea fowl, 393.

Guinea-pig, query respecting, by C. Lamb, 205.

Gunt, H. Esq., query on a curious ball contain-
ing bees, 405.

Hailstones, peculiar ones, 252.

Halo round the sun, 468.

Hamilton, W., indigenous Floras of London
and Plymouth compared, 265.

Hammer, geological, improvement in, 247.

Hampshire, rare plants collected in, 276.

Hand, left, inferior dexterity of, 456. .

Hare's throat, confirmation of the opinion re-
specting the lump attached to the, by John V .
Stewart, 300.

Harvest bug, query respecting, 290 ; answer to
query concerning, 404.

Hawkins, Thos., query on a species of plover,
207 ; account of a small uncommon insect,
210; larvaa of Lepid6ptera, 211.

Hay, new-mown, query respecting smell cf, 106.

Hebrew names of animals, dissertation on, 319.

Htilix virgata and Bulimus acvitus, 303.

Heron, common, feet and legs of the, 206.

Hessian fly, 292.

Hill, Walter Henry, farther observations re-
specting ants and aphides, 209 ; the Ficus mi.
nor, 387 ; on the dark-looking water bird shot
at Fowey, 403 ; query respecting the young of
the genus Corvus, 403 ; query on the small

' dover, 403.

l/irundinacea?, monograph on, 424.

Hirundines, on the arrival and retreat of, with
a table of arrivals and departures from 1800 to
1828, by the llev. W. T. Bree, M.A., 16.

Hoeven's distinctions of Libtillula and Mshna,

Hogg, John, M.A. F.L.S. ^c, on vessels made

of the papvrus, 324.
Hog, Warree, 63.

Hollandre's Faune du Department de la Mo-

selle, 74.

J/bmo, South American variety of, 456.

Horse of Dalecarlia, 62 ; of the Cape of Good
Hope, 63 ; of Africa, 62.

Humboldt, Baron, extract from his opening
speech at the congress of the German natu-
ralists, 80 ; suggestion for a translation of his
works, 288.

Hunter, Perceval, remark respecting Pkus mi-
nor and maximus, 208 ; answer to query re-
specting Scolopax S.abini, 288 ; various ques-
tions, 402.

Incubation, effect of, in lessening the timidity
of birds, by W. Henry Hill, 64. '

Indian, anecdote of, near Fort Enterprise, 355.

Indian Archipelago, zoology and botany of, 368,

Indications of spring, 127.

Indicatorial calendar, 99.

Inhumanity to insects, answer to charge of, 238.

Insect, account of a small uncommon one, 210.

Insects, dissection by, 455 ; leaf, 368.

Ireland, rare birds killed in, 394.

Jack snipe, figured and described, 148.

Java, cochineal transplanted to, 252.

Jennings, James, reply respecting Jennings's
Ornithology, 111 ; remarks on the ornithology
of London, 264. ^'

Jenyns, the Rev. Leonard, F.L.S., observations
on a preternatural growth of the incisor teeth,
occasionally observed in certain of the Mam-
malia rod^ntia, 134.

Jerdan, W., a curious circumstance respecting
the cuckoo, 242.

John Dor(5e, remarks on the derivation of the
name, by S. Bowdich, 115.

John Dory, derivation of, 208.

Jukes, Frederick, an account of a new species of
trilobite, found in the Barr limestone in the
neighbourhood of Birmingham, 41 ; notice of
some fragments of Orthoceras annularis and
striata, found in the Barr limestone in War-
wickshire, 231.

Junks of the Red Sea, Bruce's supposition re-
specting, 328.

Kath of the ancient Hebrews considered as the
pelican of the moderns, by David Scot. M.D.
M.W.S. F.H.S.E., 137.

Kent, Miss, an introductory view of the Lin-
nean system of plants, continued, 155.

Kenyon, Joseph, land and fresh-water shells in
the neighbourhood of Preston, 273 ; alteration
in his paper on British shells, 303.

Kerridge, D. G., circumstances respecting the
Zeuzfera ^ sculi, 291 ; query respecting the
eggs of butterflies, 405.

Kingfisher, remark concerning, 457; by J.
Lakes, 457; nest of the, made offish bones, 206.

Kirby, the Rev. William, M.A. F.K.S. L.S.,
&c., an outline and description of Centrdtus
Benn^tw and Hardwick«, 20 ; answer to query
respecting the nidus on a rush, 405.

Kittiwake, sea fowl, 393.

Lamb, C, query respecting the guinea-pig,
205 ; remarks on the Gdrdius aquaticus, 211 j
query respecting a remarkable spider, 290.

Langley, Mr. Larret, flora of Rotherham, i:69.

Language, universal, 81.

Lapwing, remark on the food of the, 113.

Lark, white, 267.

Larvae of the wheat fly, 450.

Lathrze'^a squamaria, 70 ; answer to query re-
specting, by J E. Bowman, 105 ; found near
Richmond, 294.

Laudanum, a species of dew, 298 ; not a species
of dew, in answer to R. S., 408.

Lead ore, 467.

Leaf insects, 368.

Leaves, their various forms figured and de-
scribed, \5(i.

I>eeches, reproduction of, 194 ; breeding of, 251 ;
flying, 368.

Leith and Christiana, temperature of, 367.

Leguat, copy of his voyage discovered, 443 ; his
description of the dodo, 445.

494

GENERAL INDEX.

I^pldoptera, larvae of, 211.

LibiSlUila and jE'shna distinguished, 472.

Light, query on a singularly golden green, bv
J. E. Bowman, 406.

Lightning, an oak tree struck by, 2o0. •

Ijimestone from coral rocks, 297.

Linnean Society, meetings of Dec. 2., Nov. 18.,
Dec. 16., Jan. 20., Feb. 3, and Feb. 17., 82;
March 3., and April 7., 196 ; addition to the
library of, 256; anniversary dinner, 257;
meeting of June 2., 257. 376 ; June 16., 376.

Linnean system of plants, introductory view of
continued, by Miss Kent, 155.

Literary and Philosoi^hical Society of Newcastle
upon Tyne, 387.

Lithography, new discovery in, 410.

Lives of certain naturalists, query as to where
they may be procured, 402.

Lizards, memoirs on, by MM. DugJ;z and Ed-
wards, 422.

ioligo vulgaris, figured, 153.

London, remarks on the ornithology of, by Jas.
Jennings, 264; and Plymouth, indigenous
floras of, compared by W.Hamilton, Esq., 265.

Lump attached to the hare's throat, confirma-
tion of the opinion respecting, by John V.
Stewart, Esq., 300.

Lunel Vieil, caves of, 412.

Lymnse^a ovata, 292.

Magnetism, chemical powers of, 467.

Main, Jas., A.L S., of winds, and the causes of
their different kinds, 175.

Maize, opinion respecting, 418.

Malaria, cause of, 468.

Mallow of Horace, critique respecting, 118 ;
ancient, 293.

Mammalia rod^ntia, observations on a preter-
natural growth of the incisor teeth occasion-
ally observed in certain of the, by the Rev.
Leonard Jenyns, F.L.S., 134.

Mammiferous animals, description of, 132.

Mammoth cave, 370.

Manchester museum, account of some rare birds
in, by John Blackwall, 273.

Manganese, evident traces of, in slate, 72.

Man in the north of France, 75.

Mantel, anatomy of the ventriculites of, 332.

Marine animals and plants, on certain effects
produced by fresh water on some, by James
L. Drummond, M.D., 121.

Marine animals, further observations on the
influence of fresh water on, by Lieut. J. H
Davies, R. N., 217 ; influence of fresh water
on, 398. 402.

Marine plants, query on, 4C6.

Martins, Dr., his discoveries, 293.

Mass, gelatinous, answer to the query respect-
ing, by J. Murray, Esq., 289.

Matthews, Andrew, on the Zeuzdra cb'scuW, 67.

Mearns, John, F.H.S., supposed cause of corn
springs, 488.

Menageries, travelling, and of London, query
respecting, 402.

Menzies, Mr., ascent and barometrical measure-
ment of the Wha-ra-rai mountain, in Owhy-
hee, 435.

Merganser, red-breasted, nest of the, 90.

Meslier, M., notice of his cabinet of birds, 74.

Meteorological journal, extracts from one kept
near the town of Kilkenny, during 1828, 97. .

Meteorology, critical remarks on, 304.

Microscopic amusement, as a means of educat-
ing the feelings, 286.

Middlesex, plants collected in, 266.

Minerals which attract the magnetic needle, 247.

Mirbel's opinion on the vegetable ovulum, 416.

Mole, physiological observations respecting, by
M. Geoffroy St. Hilaire, 420,

Mole cricket, answer to query respecting, 290.

Molecules, active, supposed existence of in mi-
neral substances, 1 ; remarks on, by Robert
Bakewell, 213 ; observed in a haddock's eye,
242 ; query respecting, by J. O. Westwood,
F.L.S., &c. 402 ; ultimate, a cloud of witnesses
in favour of the motion of, 215.

Molluscous animals, introduction to the natural
history of, 22; indirect benefits from, 148.

Moor buzzard, variety of, figured, 102.

Moth, brown-tail, attempt to naturalise, by the
Rev. W. T. Bree, G6 ; the death's-head hawk,
460 ; the vapourer, 460.

Mountain cock, critical remark respecting, 302.

Mountains, form and aspect of, 466.

Muphatamet's optical phenomenon explained,
496.

Murray, J., answer respecting the circumstance
of a gelatinous mass like the remains of a
frog ; and suggestion as to the showers [of
frogs, 289 ; critical remarks on the ascent of
the aerial spider, 299.

Muscle, fresh-water, young of, 469.

Museum Alexandrinum, at Petersburg, 252;
of natural history at Abo destroyed by fire,
2.52; at Manchester, account of some rare
birds in the, by John Blackwall, Esq., 273 ; of
the Canterbury Philosophical and Literary
Institution, 383; of Scarborough, 474.

Mya batava, query respecting, 102.

Names, accentuation of, 298 ; of plants, changes
in, 462.

Natural history, the progress of, during 1828, by
Mrs. Bowdich, 409; collection from Pondi-
cherry, 249 ; in Spain, 367 ; in China, 368 ; in
Wurtemberg, 250 ; of vegetables, 165.

Natural History Society, advantage to be ex-
pected from a, 395 ; of Preston, 88 ; suggestion
for one, 286.

Nature, calendar of, for Perthshire, 477—483 ;
meteorological table and calendar of, for 1828,
from the register kept at Annat Gardens, 94.

ATautilus, query on, 102.

Nests and eggs, query respecting, 404.

Nest of a strange bird, &c., 404.

Newcastle upon Tyne, museum of natural his-
tory in, 270.

Niagara, description of the Falls of, by the Duke
of Saxe- Weimar, 369.

Nicholson, Thomas, on the red snow of the
Arctic regions, 321.

Nidus on a rush, 104 ; answer to query respect-
ing, by the Rev. Wm. Kirby, 405; singula,
one, by Charles Blomer, 303.

Nightingale, curiously composed nest of the, dS.

Nile, manner of passing, on reeds, 327.

Nuthatch, circumstances respecting, by the Rev.
W. T. Bree, 243 ; query on the peculiar smell
from, after death, 484.

Oak tree, notice respecting one struck by light-
ning, 230.

Ontario, Lake, ancient fish-banks near, 253.

Optical phenomena, 108.

Ornithology of London, remarks on the, 264.

Orthuceras annularis and striata, notice of some
fragments of, found in the Barr limestone in
Warwickshire, by Frederick Jukes, with a
note by J. D. C. Sowerby, F.L.S., 231.

Owl feeding on fish, suggestion as to, 288.

Ox, American, or pygmybison, notice of an im-
posture so entitled, 218.

Palestine, geology of, critique respecting, 119.

Palmer, the Rev. S., hints respecting the lists
of plants, 212; plants collected by, in Bliddle-
sex, 266 ; in Surrey, 266; in Hampshire, 276;
in Essex, 385 ; in Hertfordshire, Huntingdon-
shire, and Cambridgeshire, 386; in North-
amptonshire, 387.

Papilio Machaow, distinction of sex in, 67.

Papyrus, on vessels made of the, 324.

Pearls, British, 461.

Pelican of the moderns, the kath of the ancient
Hebrews considered as, by David Scot, M. D.
M.W.S. F.H.S.E., 137.

Pentacrinus europae^us and the star-fish, cri-
tique respecting, 114.

Perennial calendar, critique respecting, 110.

Perry, W. G., varieties of plants found in War-
wickshire, 268.

Peru, coal-fields in, 370.

Petersburg, Museum Alexandrinum at, de-
stroyed by fire, 252.

GENERAL INDEX.

495

Phalf-e'^na Pyralis, remark respecting, 302.

Pheasants, answer to query respecting, 288.

Pliilosophical and Literary Institution of Can-
terbury, museum of, 383: of Chatham, meet-
ing of September 29., 383.

Philosophical and Literary Society of Bristol,
meeting of May 29., 39L

Philosophical Society of Cambridge, purchase

- of birds made by the, 386.

PhysJllia, observations on the, 425.

Physeter catbJon figured, 477.

P'lcus minor and miiximus, remark respecting,

i^ by Perceval Hunter, 208 ; minor, critique re-
specting, 110; in Herefordshire, by Walter
Henry Hill, 387.

Pied flycatcher, query respecting, 100.

Pigeon, the wild, in America, 369.

Plants collected by the Rev. S. Palmer, in Mid-
dlesex, 26c); in Surrey, 266; in Hampshire,
276 ; in Essex, 385 ; in Hertfordshire, Hun-
tingdonshire, and Cambridgeshire, 386; in
Northamptonshire, 387 ; efficacioss method of
drying, by J. E. Bowman, 245 ; hints respect-
ing the lists of, by S. Palmer, 212 ; in flower
near Bungay on the 21st of December, by D.
Stock, 88 ; marine, query respecting, 4C6 ; rare,
localities of, in North Wales, by Nat. John
Winch, 278; sloughing of 464, tropical re-
mains of, 81 ; varieties of, found in Warwick-
shire by W. G. Perry, 268.

Pliny's animals determined specifically by M.
Ciivier, 421 ; statement as to the papyrus ves-
sels, 325.

Plover, query on an uncommon species of, 207.

Plymouth and London, indigenous floras of,
compared, by W. Hamilton, 26.5.

Plutarch's statement respecting boats made of
the papyrus, 325.

Pollen of plants, account of Mr. Needhara's ori-
ginal discovery of the action of; with observ.
ations on the supposed existence of active
molecules in mineral substances, by Robert
Bakewell, 1 ; of flowers, Brongniart's state-
ment respecting, 417.

Pondicherry, collection of nat. hist, from, 249.

Porcupine, Canada, 357.

Poultry, wild, 368.

Preservation of small birds, 458.

Preston, land and fresh-water shells in the
neighbourhood of, by Joseph Kenyon, 273.

Procellaria Leachw, query respecting, 105.

PuflSns, 393.

Pupa of the wheat fly, 451.

Pygmy bison, or American ox, notice of an
imposture so entitled, 218.

Radicles, descent of, in germination, 463.

Rail us aquaticus, critique on the figure of, 502.

Rare, critique respecting plants and insects con-
sidered as, 1 10.

Rattlesnakes, a den of, 370.

Raven, young of the, query respecting, 403.

Ray, commemoration of, 84.

Raymond, M., his discovery in dyeing, 410.

Razor-bills, 393. '

Rein deer, 63.

Rhine and Moselle, volcanic district between, 71.

Rhod'iola millegrana, corrected, ] 19.

Rock blocks, 471.

Rook, white one taken in full feather, 387.

Root, description of the, 165.

Rose, C. B., on the anatomy of the ventriculites
of Mantel, 332.

Rose tree, sap of the, 462.

Rotherham, Flora of, by Larret Langley, 269.

Rush, nidus on a, 104.

Salmon, J. D., query on the best work on British
birds' eggs, 205 ; answer to, '205.

Sand, dark-coloured, the sun's rays reflected
from a, 81.

Saxc-Weimar, the Duke of, his description of
the Falls of Niagara, 369.

Scarborough museum, 482.

5c61opax Sablnj, answer to query respecting, by
Perceval Hunter, 288.

Scot, David, M.D. M.W.S. F.H.S.E., on the

kath of the ancient Hebrews considered as
the pelican of the moderns, 137.

Scotland, wolves and foxes in, by J. Rennie, 457.

Sea, the blue colour of, 297.

Sea-spider, 211 ; an imposition, 290.

Seeds, durability of, query respecting, 106.

Shadows, double phenomenon of, explained, 496.

Sheep, broad-tailed, 63 ; West India, 63 ; Abys-
sinian, 63 ; supposed to be fattened by shelled-
snails, 150 ; black, 457.

Shells, fossil, catalogue of unpublished, 246;
British, alteration in Mr. Kenyon's paper on,
303 ; land and fresh-water, in the neighbour-
hood of Preston, by Joseph Kenyon, Esq., 273.

Shirreff, Mr. P., account of the wheat-fly, 448.

Shrew mole of America, 354.

Shrew, water, some account of the, by John
F. M. Dovaston, A.M., 219.

Shrike, the greater, query on the peculiar smell
from, after death, 484.

Sight, distant, 470; of the stemmatous insects,
471.

Silver fish, query respecting, 102.

Simla tribe, the best treatise on ? 402.

Skeleton plants, query on, 106.

Skins of birds, query on softening, 484.

Skulls of brutes, answer to query respecting, by
Thos. Thompson, 288.

Sloughing of plants, 464.

Slugs, spinning, by the Rev. W. T. Bree, 69. 303.
485.

Snail, musical sound produced by, 244.

Snake, British, new species of, 458. ^

Snipe, the solitary, figured and described, 147 ;
the common, figured and described, 147 ; the
Jack, figured and described, 148 ; the soli-
tary, correction respecting delineation of, 302.

Snipes, British, descriptive and historical notices
of, 143.

Snow, red, of the Arctic regions, 321.

Society, Natural History, suggestion for, 286.

Soil, influence of, on roots, 463.

Solan goose, 90.

Sowerby, J. D. C, F.L.S., note on a new species
of trilobite, 44 ; note to paper on Orthoceras
annularis and strikta, 233.

Spain, state of natural history in, 367.

SphaeVia/raxinea, phenomena attending, 171.

Spider, remarkable one, query respecting, by
C. Lamb, 290 ; aerial, critical remarks on the
ascent of, by J. Murray, 299.

Spiders not found on chestnut timber, query re-
specting, by John Brown, 291 ; developement
of the eggs of, 244 ; live and grow without
food, 459.

Spinning slugs, 303.

Spirit of Bewick's designs, 432.

Spring, indications of, 127.

Spruce fir-tree, some account of a remarkable
one in the woods of Braco Castle, Perthshire,
by Mr. Archibald Gorrie, C.M.H.S., 173.

Stanley, J., M.D., birds found in the neigh-
bourhood of Whitehaven, 275.

Starwort, answer to the query respecting, 293;
of Graham's British Georgics, 4(j6.

Stewart, John V., respecting the lump attached
to the hare's throat, 300.

Stock, Daniel, remarks on Mr. Babington's list
of rare plants and insects, 213 ; discovery of
plants varying with white flowers, 387 ; Trib-
dia procumbens, 387 ; error respecting the
sun-flower corrected, 464.
Stone, Robert, P\L.S., obituary of, 120.

Storks in Germany, 484.

Stourchat and whea tear, difference between, 289.

Strabo's description of the papyrus, 326.

Sturnus f^inclus, remarks respecting, 400.

Sun-flower, error respecting, 464.

Sun's rays reflected from a dark sand, 81.

Superfcetation of a pheasant's egg, 289.

Surrey, plants collected in, 266.

Swallow, query respecting a, by R. Sweet, 101.

Swallows, arrival of, 264 ; in this country during

the winter, 458.
Switzerland, Societies of Naturalists in, 251.

496

GENERAL INDEX.

System, circular, extended to events, ^^55.
Tarsus of Chlanius vesfitus, curious formation

in, 302.
Taylor, R. C, F.G.S., an attempt to form a
table of the geological arrangement of British
fossil shells, 26 ; correction of the geological
arrangement of British fossil shells, 216.
Teeth, preternatural growth of the incisor ones,
occasionally observed in certain of the Mam-
malia rodcntia, 134.
Temperature at Christiana and at Leith com-
pared, 367; of a country, rules for determin-
ing, 468.
Templeton, the late John, Esq., memoir of, 305.
Thames, on the hydrographical ba^hi of the, 378.
Thfecla spini, remark on, by J. D. Hoy, 88.

Theophrastus's statement concerning boats made

of the papyrus, 325.
Thibet, goats of, 251,

Thompson, John V., F.L.S., contributions to-
wards the natural history of the dodo, 44-2 ;
error in reviewing Zoological Researches, 302.

Thompson, Thomas, arrangement of the termi-
nology of birds, 214 ; answer to the query re-
specting the skulls of brutes, 288 ; error in the
description of the birds he presented to the

•> Hull Literary and Philosophical Institution,
302 ; critique respecting the water,shrew, 399 ;
figure of Phvseter catbdon, 477.

Thomson, Prof. A. T., M. D., &c., laudanum
not a species of dew, in answer to R. S., 408.

Thunberg, Charles Peter, obituary of, 120.

Tick, curious fact respecting one, 103 ; on one
which moved on a diseased part of itself, 208.

Tipula fritici, 105.

Titmouse, bearded, remarks on, 222.

Tools for engraving on wood, 429

Toucan, the, 473.

Trachyte defined, 467.

Trees, preservation of, in winter, 462.

Trilobite, an account of a new species of, found
in thelBarr limestone in the neighbourhood
of Birmingham, by Frederick Jukes, Esq.,
with a note by J.D.C. Sowerby, Esq., 41.

Tribdia procumbens of Smith, 387.

Turnip fly, query respecting, 592.

Ure's Geology, mistatements in, 465.

Vegetables, on the natural history of, 165 ; ma-
rine, query respecting, 106.

Vegetation at diff'erent epochs of the crust of the
globe, 194.

Ventriculite, general character of, 533; inner
coat, 334 ; concentric laminae, 336 ; the tubes,
336; the external coat, 338 ; economy of the
various parts of the, 340 ; the part of animat-
ed nature to which it belongs, 340.

Ventriculites of Mantel, on the anatomy of, 33^.

Vertebrated animals, description of, 129.

Vessels made of the papyrus, on, 324.

Vision of birds of prey, 473.

Viviparous production, curious instance of, 70.

Voice, organs of, in birds, 376.

Volcanoes, superstition respecting, 436. 457.

Wales, North, localities of rare plants in, by
Nat. John Winch, Esq., 278.

Warwickshire, varieties of plants found in, 268.

Water, fresh, farther observations on the influ-
ence of, on marine animals, by Lieut. J. H.

Davies, R. M., 217 ; running, power exerted
by, in removing heavy bodies, 381.

Water shrew, critique respecting, by Thomas
Thomson, 399; observations respecting, by
William Ainsworth, 483.

Watson, Miss C, name of shrub sent by, 4S6.

Weather at Brussels and London compared, 81 ;
at Edmonton, near London, 81; Journal of,
kept at Wycombe, Bucks, by James Tatem,
Esq., 92; on the art of deriving interest from
the study of, 177 ; rules for the, 468.

Westwood, J. O., active molecules, query, 402,

Whale, a male spermaceti, 197 ; captured near
Liverpool, 391 ; hands of the, 45/ ; the Phy-
seter caibdon, figured, by T. Thompson, 477.

Wha-ra-rai Mountain, ascent and barometrical
measurement of, 435.

Wheat, remarks respecting, 425.

Wheatear and stourchat, query on, 289.

Wheat fly, on the, by Mr. Archibald Gorrie,
C.M.H.S., 323 ; by Mr. P. ShirrefF, 448.

White, W. H., H.M.C.S., answer to a query
whether frogs are dormant during winter, i08 ;
query respecting the distinction of the sex,
and which croaks, 209; superstition respect-
ing bees, 209 ; query respecting the zimb, 493,

Whitehaven, birds found in the neighbourhood
of, by J. Stanley, M.D., 275.

Winch, Nat. John, Esq., localities of rare plants
in North Wales, 278.

Winds, and the causes of their different kinds,
by Mr. Main, 175; electricity of the, 468 j
south-west, analysis of, 468.

Winter, bounties of, 455.

Wolverne, or American glutton, 356.

Wolves and foxes in Scotland, 457,

Wolves of Amei'ica, 356.

Woodcock, figured and described, 146 ; shot at
Banchory, 87.

Woodcocks, breeding of, in England, 86.

Woodcock's nest in Chicksand woods, 87.

Woods, Henry, A.L.S., capture of a cachalot on
the south coast, 198.

Woodward, Sam., musical sound produced by a
snail, 244 ; query respecting some minute
objects found on flint, 296.

Wool, method of extracting the greasy matter
contained in, discovered by M. Chevreul,410.

Worm, curious one, 103 ; answer to query re-
specting, 293 ; found among herbage, 211.

Wurtemberg, natural hi-story in, 250.

Wurtemberg Society for undertaking voyages of
natural history, 81.

Yorkshire, granite in, 120.

Zeuzera (s'sculi, or wood-leopard moth, figured
and described, by Andrew Mathews, 67 ; cir-
cumstances respecting, by D.G.Kerridge,291,

Zimb, query respecting the, 475,

Zoological Gardens, 371.

Zoological Researches, error in reviewing, 302.

Zoological Society, 84 ; remarks respecting,
196 ; incorporation of, 254 ; correspondence
established by, 255 ; the garden, 255 ; sugges-
tion as to naming the animals and plants of,
255; application of farm, 256 ; Aug. 15., 372.

Zoology and botany of the Indian Archipelago,
368.

Zoology, Cuvierian, system of, continued, 128.

END OF THE SECOND VOLUME.

London :

Printed by A, & R. Spottiswoode,

Ncw-Street-Square.

INDEX

TO

BOOKS REVIEWED AND NOTICED.

THE GENERAL SUBJECT.

Aaarsbehaettelser om Vetenskapernas

framsteg, 176,
Audouin and Dumas's Annales des Sciences

Naturelles, noticed, 63.
Bainbridge's Fly-fisher's Guide, 173.
Bluff's Organischer Wesen, &c., 467.
Brande's Quarterly Journal, noticed, 362.
Brewster's Journal, noticed, 169. 364.
Contributions of the Maclurian Lyceum, no-
ticed, 177.
Cuvier's Revolutions de la Surface du Globe,

&c., 175.
Dictionnaire Classique d'Histoire Naturelle,

63.367.
Dictionnaire des Sciences Naturelles, 63. 367.
Dupont's Traits de Taxidermie, 174.
Duvemay's Discours, &c., 467.
Fee's Productions Naturelles de Java, 175.
Fdrussac's Bulletin des Sciences Naturelles, &c.,

noticed, 63.
Fontenelle's Bibliothfeque Physico-E'conomique,

&c noticed ^fifi
Gill's' Technological Repository, not., 169. 363.
Hart's Philosophical Enquiries, 366.
Hinsinger's Anteckningar 1 Physic och Geog-

nosie, &c., 176.
Hogg's Natural History of Stockton on Tees,

noticed, 277.
Humboldt's Tableaux de la Nature, 64.
Jameson's Philosophical Journal, not. 170. 364.
Kittell's M^moires d'Histoire Naturelle, 174.
Leichtenstern's Umriss der Naturbeschreibung,

&c., 467.
Lempriere's Lectures on the Study of Natural

History, noticed, 174.
Meyer's De Houttuynia atque Saurureis, 175.
Perleb's Lehrbuch der Naturgeschichte,&c. 467.
Philosophical Magazine, noticed, 169. 363.
Planches de Seba, 367.
Proleus's Zeitschrift fur Naturlehre, 64.
Report of the Portsmouth and Portsea Society,

noticed, 364.
Stark's Elements of Natural Histoiy, not., 62.
Transactions of the Linnean Society of London,

62.
Verhandlungen der Allg. Schweizer, Gesell-

schaft, &c., 467.
Waterton's Wanderings in South America, no-

ticed. 36.

ZOOLOGY.

176.

Aaarsberaettelse om nyare Zoologiske, &c
Anslijn's Natuurk. Verhandel, &c., 467.
Audubon's Birds of America, reviewed, 43.
Bennett's Fishes of Ceylon, noticed, 162. 273.
Boitard's Manuel d'Entomologie 368 ; Atlas des

Insectes, &c., 368.
Bory de St. Vincent's Rt'sum^ d'ErpetoIogie,

noticed, 467.
Bowdich's Fishes of Great Britain, noticed, 53.
Buffon's aj:uvres Completes, 63.
Burrow's Elements of Conchology, 173.
Chiaje's Memorie dcgli Animali senza Vertc-

bre, 64, 176.

Cours d'Histoire Naturelle, 367.

Curtis's British Entomology, not., 54. 160. 272.

Cuvier, F.'s Histoire Naturelle des Mammiffires,
63.

Desvoidy's Organisation des Crustaces, &c.,367.

Duperrey's Voyage Zoologique, 367.

Duponchel's Lepidopt^res Nocturnes de France,
367.

Floyd's Observations on Dog-breaking, noticed,
172.

Griffith's Animal Kingdom, reviewed, 275.

Hann's Anatomie d'Insectes, 174.

Haworth's Lepid6ptera Britdnnica, rev., 348.

Histoire des Animaux, 64.

Horsefield's Lepidopterous Insects, &c., noticed,
172.

Jardine's Illustrations of Ornithology, not., 62.

Jennings's Ornithologia, not., 62 ; rev., 341.

Jennings's Pleasures of Ornithology, not., 280.

Lebreux's L^pidopt^res, 174.

Lesson's Complement de Buffon, 174. 367.

Macquart's Insectes Dipt^res du Nord de la
France, 467.

Mencke's Synopsis Methodica Molluscorum, &c.
467.

Roux's Iconographie Conchyliologique, 64.

Roux's Ornithologie Provengale, 3&I.

Savi's Ornithologia Toscana, &c., 176.

Sebright's Observations upon Hawking, no-
ticed, 266.

Selby's Illustrations of British Ornithology, 62.

Sowerby's Recent and Fossil Shells, noticed, 56.

Stephens's British Entomology, noticed, 55. 161.j
reviewed, 459.

Svensk Zoologi, 368.

Sweet's British Warblers, noticed, 57.

Temminck's Planches d'Oiseaux, 64.

Ternaux's Obstacles k la Propagation des Meri-
nos, noticed, 467.

Thompson's Memoir on the Pentacrlnus euro-
pae\is, 62.

Vatel's Medecin-vet^rinaire, 466.

Vigors's Zoological Journal, noticed, 61. 278.

Wiegmann's Observationes Zoologicte Critics,
&c., 175.

Wilson's Illustrations of Zoology, noticed, 52.

Wood's Introductory Lecture on Zoology, 62.

BOTANY.

Betcke's Animadversiones Botanicee in Vale-
rianellas, 175.

BischofF's Kryptogamischen Gewachse, 368.

Blume's Enumeratio Plantarum Javje, &c., 175.

Bois-Duval's Flore Frangaise, 466.

Brongniart's Histoire des V^g^taux fossiles, 63.

Cassini's Opuscules Pbytologiques, 174.

Chevallier's Flore generale de Paris, 63.

Curtis's Botanical Magazine, noticed, 59. 163.
165, 274.

Dargassies's Lettres a Anais sur la Botanique,
63.

Decandolle's Botanicon Gallicum, &c., 367.

Decandolle's Histoire du .R^gne Vegetal, no-
ticed, 280.

Decandolle's Prodromus Systcmatis, &c., 280.

Descourtils's Champignons, &c., 367.

Vol. I. — No. 5.

[L L 4]

[496]

INDEX TO BOOKS REVIEWED AND NOTICED.

Descourtils's Flore Pittoresque et M^dicale des

Antilles, 63.
Desvaux's Flore de I'Anjou, &c., 175.
Duperrey's Voyage Botanique, 367.
Edwards's Botanical Register, noticed, 59. 165,

166. 274.
Examen de deux Meraoires de Physiologic V6-

gaale, &c., 175.
Flbra Braslliae Meridionklis, 367.
Flbra M.5dica, 62.
Flore, ou Gazette Botanique, 175.
Fontelle's Manuel de I'Herboriste, &c., 64.
Freycinet's Voyage Botanique, 367.
Girardin and Juillet's Manuel de Botanique,

368.
Goeppert's De Hydrocyanic! Acidi vi, &c., 368.
Guillemin's Icones Lithographicffi Plantarum

Australasias rariorum, 367.
Gussone's Floras Siculae Prodromus, 368.
Harswegs' Hortus Carlsruhanus, 467.
Hedwig's Species Muscorum, &c. 64. 368.
Hooker and Greville's Ferns, noticed, 279.
Kent's Sylvan Sketches, noticed, 173.
Ker's Iridearum Genera, 62.
Lachmann's Flora von Brunschvsreig, 64.
Lecoy's Reproduction des V^getaux, 174.
Ijejeune's Compendium Floree Belgicae, 368.
Lejeune's Flore des Environs de Spa, 467.
Xrink's Abbildungen auserlesener Gewachse,280.
Loddiges's Botanical Cabinet, noticed, 60. 166.

360.
Maund's Botanic Garden, noticed, 61. 168,
Palm's Winden der Pflanzen, 368.
Phillips's Floral Emblems, reviewed, 350.
Plantes des Br^siliens, 367.
Redoute's Choix des plus belles Fleurs, 64.
Reichenbach's Icones Plantarum, &c., 64.
Smith's English Flora, noticed, 62.
Stevenson and Churchill's Medical Botany, no-
ticed, 61.
Sweet's British Flower- Garden, noticed, 61.

168. 362.
Sweet's Cistineae, noticed, 58,
Sweet's Flbra Australasica, noticed, 61. 167. 360.
Sweet's Florist's Guide, noticed, 58.
Sweat's Ger&nikcess, noticed, 61.

Tenore's Flbra Virgiliana, 176.

Tenore's Geografia Fisiq^ e Bottanica del Re-

gno di Napoli, 176.
Tussac's Flore des Antilles, 63.
Weberi's Novitia Flora Holsatica, &c. 360.

GEOLOGY AND MINERALOGY.

Bakewell's Geology, reviewed, 353.
Bischof's Chemische Untersuchungen, &c., 175.
Boon Mesch's Disputatio Geologica, &c., 175.
Brandes and Kruger's Pyrmonts Mineralquel-

len, 175.
Buckland's Valley of Kingsclere, reviewed, 249.
Comstock's Elements of Mineralogy, 176.
Emmons's Manual of Mineralogy and Geology,

176.
Engelspack-Larividre's Essai geognostique de

St. Petersbourg, 176.
Fries's Ursachen der Erdbeben, &c., 174,
Glokker's Characteristic der Schlesisch-minera-

logischen Literatur, 175. •
Glocker's De Gemmis Plinii, 368.
Hendrick's Lecture on Geology, 173.
Hinsinger's Mineralogische Beschreibung, &c,,

175,
Joseph's Modifications de la Terre, 367,
Kaiser's Mineralquellen zu St Moritz, Schuls,

&c., 175.
Kreysig's Gebrauch der Mineralwasser, no-
ticed, 467.
Martin's Geological Memoir of Western Sussex,

62 ; reviewed, 249.
Mitchill's Catalogue des Fossiles, &c., 17&
Nillson's Petrificata Suecana, &c,, 368.
Odolant's Precis de Min^ralogie moderne, 64.
Rennie's Conversations on Geology, noticed,

280; reviewed, 463.
Stei-ner's Gebirgshoehen des Salzkammerguthes,

175,
Steinmann and Reuss's Saidschitzer Bitterwas-

METEOROLOGY,
Fellens's Manuel de M^t^orologie, 367.

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