40 HERBIVOROUS CETACEA. 



have originated from an imperfect observation of 

 their actions. 



It must be admitted that the members of this fa- 

 mily, present little in their general appearance to 

 excite attention, unless it be their huge and almost 

 shapeless bodies; but their internal structure, actions 

 and habitudes, afford very ample scope for interesting 

 observations, and philosophical inquiry; as it would 

 not be easy, from any previous knowledge, to be- 

 lieve that merely herbivorous animals would be 

 found inhabiting the ocean, conformed in all re- 

 spects, so as closely to approach in external appear- 

 ance to fish, and yet in all the characters of teeth, 

 mode of feeding and digestive organs, to bear a very 

 marked resemblance to herbivorous land quadru- 

 peds. 



