LIZARDS. 



12S 



is not kno"w^i. They vary exceedingly in num- 

 ber, even in tlie same species : in this respect, 

 therefore, they afford no distinctive characters." 



FEMORAL PORES OF AMEIVA. 



The Lizards are confined to the Old World, 

 where the species are numerous.. None of them 

 attain a large size, but the colours of most are 

 elegant and beautiful, and some shine in the most 

 gem-like radiance of green and gold. Their 

 graceful slender forms, rapid motions, and gay 

 tints, associated with the fairest weather of sum- 

 mer, and the sunniest spots of the country, cause 

 them to be generally looked upon not only with- 

 out alarm, but even with admiration ; and, we 

 may add, that there is an expression so meek 

 and gentle in the countenance of the LacertcE, 

 that physiognomy w^ould be greatly at fault if 

 it were found connected with poisonous fangs, 

 or ferocious propensities, [ndeed their bright 

 eyes as they timidly peep from under the over- 

 hanging leaves, and the rustling that their fleet 

 steps make as they dart away among the herbage, 

 are felt to be as poetical accompaniments of rural 



