168 DROPS OF WATER. 



frequently. I flattered myself for some time that 

 I had discovered a new species, but after re- 

 peated observation, I came to the conclusion 

 that it was in all probability the R. vidgaris, or a 

 species of Philodina living as I may say in retire- 

 ment. It appeared to me, that these specimens 

 had placed themselves in the empty cases of the 

 Floscularia, but they were invariably so much 

 covered with extraneous deposit, that I could not 

 decide the matter satisfactorily. The wheels, jaws, 

 and respiratory tube alone, were visible beyond 

 the edge ; and as it expanded and contracted 

 within the case, in a similar manner to the Flos- 

 cularia, I at first thought it was, like that ani- 

 malcule, attached to, and the architect of, the 

 case ; but as I never saw any of the specimens 



