66 A MONOGRAPH OF THE 



nearly in straight lines from the base to the apex of the 

 sponge. 



My friend, Mr. Barlee, states that in the living condition 

 the sponge was of an orange colour, and semi-transparent, 

 and that the reticulated structure was apparent through the 

 surface. The interior was filled with a yellowish fluid, 

 and the exterior slightly mucous. 



Since the above was written, I have received two other 

 specimens of this species. One, remarkable for its com- 

 paratively great height, the entire length being one and a 

 half inch ; the apex is obliquely truncated, and has two 

 small mammasform projections, one at each angle of the 

 apex. The other specimen presents a singular variety of 

 form and size. It is an inch in height, and although now 

 compressed, is as broad as it is high ; it has apparently in 

 its living state been as nearly as possible globular. These 

 specimens were sent to me by my friend Mr. Peach. They 

 were dredged at Shetland, in 18G4, by Mr. J. Gwyn 

 Jeffreys.' 



5. Polymastia spinula, Bowerbank. 



Sponge. Sessile, basal portion coating, thin ; furnished 

 with one or two, rarely three, long slender fistulae. 

 Surface hispid. Oscula congregated, terminal on the 

 fistulae. Pores inconspicuous. Skeleton. Fistulae 

 strap-shaped, distal terminations more or less hemi- 

 spherical ; spicula of the primary fasciculi fusiformi- 

 acuate, long and stout. External defensive spicula of 

 both basal mass and fistulae spinulate, long and slender, 

 more or less irregularly dispersed. 



Colour. Dried, cream white. 



Habitat. Moray Frith, Rev. Walter Gregor : Shet- 

 land, Mr. Barlee, Rev. A. M. Norman, and Mr. Peach. 

 Examined. In the dried state. 



The general aspect of this species is that of an incom- 



