228 ZOOPHYTES. 



shapen mass far above many creatures whose symmetrical parts and orna- 

 mental aspect were calculated to invite admiration. 



The general correspondence of some of the internal structure of the 

 Ascidia, with that of the animated tenants of an extensive tribe of zoophytes, 

 suggested a distinction, whereby the latter should be denominated ascidian, 

 while the former, whose properties we have discussed, should be charac- 

 terised as hydraoids. 



Although, in the strictest definition, this denomination, ascidiati, 

 might be rejected for animals so different in various important features, 

 it proves a convenient distinction. Naturalists will find many facilities 

 in its adoption ; besides the meagreness of language itself compels us to 

 admit much, especially for avoiding circumlocution, which would be other- 

 wise rejected. 



Farther, it is impossible to assume every trivial characteristic assign- 

 ed by each transient, or even each permanent observer, to the favoured 

 subject of his studies as a distinctive feature whereon some leading divi- 

 sion of the animal kingdom shall repose. Nor will such projects, now too 

 common, perhaps, prove lasting auxiliaries to science, until the learned 

 coincide completely on those to be held decisive. 



Herein, I conceive, more intimate knowledge of individual species, 

 that which is only to be gathered from the preservation of individual 

 specimens, is requisite, than we have yet attained. Therefore we cannot 

 dispense with endeavouring to procure the multiplication and the corro- 

 boration of facts. No doubt this costs the sacrifice of time and trouble, 

 but the reward is durable. 



In regard to the ascidian zoophytes, I shall abstain from attempting 

 to detail the anatomical structure of their minute inhabitants, which has 

 been done so well and so satisfactorily by others. It is always of difficult 

 detection and demonstration in the living specimen, nor to be otherwise 

 accomplished than by simple inspection, when transparency of the dwelling 

 and of the integuments of the creatures exposes the interior, — an oppor- 

 tunity very seldom offered. On considering such an obstacle, invincible in 

 many, I cannot but remark that a degree of precision sometimes appears 

 in the representation of internal organization, which seems to be deduced 



