OF THE COTYLEDONS. 101 



seeds in the earth, there is also an evolu- 

 tion of a considerable portion of heat. 

 This indeed might have been expected, as 

 it usually happens when oxygen gas is ab- 

 sorbed. So far seems to be the work of che- 

 mistry alone ; at least we have no right to 

 conclude that any other agent interferes; 

 since hay, when it happens to imbibe moi- 

 sture, exhibits nearly the same processes." 



I conceive the evolution of this heat may 

 powerfully further the progress of vegetation 

 by stimulating the vital principle of the em- 

 bryo, till its leaves unfold and assume their 

 functions. It is necessary to observe, 

 that the above process equally takes place, 

 whether the farinaceous particles be lodged in 

 the bulk of the cotyledons themselves, or 

 compose a separate body called by authors 

 the albumen, as in grasses and corn. 



