COMPOUND ASCIDIA. 



153 



CHAPTER VIII. 



THE COMPOUND ASCIDIA. 



Plates XXXVII. Figs. 12-24; XXXVIII., XXXIX., XL., XLL— 



The preceding observations on the Simple Ascidia, will facilitate the ex- 

 planations proposed to be given in the present chapter. Though such ob- 

 servations be meagre in themselves, from the most singular parts of the 

 history of the subjects brought under review having never been disclosed 

 in confinement, .with one exception, we there discover a connecting link 

 to the following more remarkable race of beings. 



It must appear an astounding fact to our feeble understanding, that the 

 final perfection of the marvellous works of the Creator should be attained 

 through means so different from those we behold disposed around our own 

 place in the universe. Yet, as our knowledge is permitted to extend, and 

 we turn to profitable account the competent analysis of observation, pene- 

 trating as deeply as may be into the mysteries of animated nature, per- 

 haps corresponding forms may be found in the elementary stages of living 

 creatures, and similar principles governing the progress of their develop- 

 ment. The design is so grand its basis may be simple. 



Probably distinctions may arise in many important points, from the 

 circumstances under which animated beings exist as single, or solitary, and 

 compound products, inasmuch as the former live only for themselves. 

 Their vital functions are there carried on for the benefit of each individual ; 

 thence its organization, being adapted for that purpose, is perfect in respect 

 to itself. Animals dwelling in society are not removed from similar con- 

 ditions. But the incorporation of compound animals with a common mass, 

 seems to demand a twofold effort from the operation of their organic 

 functions, the one tending to the preservation of the individual animal, 



VOL. II. u 



