THE ItAZOR-BACK. 137 



ed for a specific distinction. The appearance and 

 dimensions of the whalebone and teeth, especially 

 the former, are other specific characteristics. All 

 whales have spiracles or blowholes, some with one, 

 others with two openings, through which they 

 breathe; some have a smooth skin all over the body; 

 others have rugae or sulci about the region of the 

 thorax and on the lower jaw. And all afford, be- 

 neath the integuments, a quantity of fat or blubber, 

 from whence a useful and valuable oil, the train oil 

 of commerce, is extracted. 



Species II. — The Razor-back. 



Balsena Physalis; L. 

 Balsenoptera Gribbar: La Cepede. 



This is the longest animal of the whale tribe; 

 and probably, the most powerful and bulky of 

 created beings. It differs from the mystieetus, in its 

 form being less cylindrical, and its body longer and 

 more slender; in its whalebone being shorter; its 

 produce in blubber and oil being less; in its colour 

 being of a bluer tinge; in its fins being more in num- 

 ber, in its breathing or blowing being more vio- 

 lent; in its speed being greater; in its actions being 

 quicker and more restless, and in its conduct being 

 bolder. 



Vol. III. — -18 



