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. 



