INTRODUCTION 



TO 



CONCHOLOGY 



Each moss, 

 Each shell, «ach crawling insect holds a rank, 

 Important in the plan of HIM, who framed 

 This scale of beings. 



Slillingfleet. 



^^10I^J|.||.^| form a link in the great chain of nature, worthy the 

 researches of men of science ; and when we consider the wonderful diversity 

 of singular and beautiful forms, which they present to our notice, they cannot 

 fail to invite the attention of the most common observer. CONCHOLOGY, 

 indeed is a study peculiarly adapted to recreate the senses, and insensibly to 

 lead us to the contemplation of the glory and order of the great God, in 

 creation. 



This science has, in a greater or less degree, attracted the attention of curi- 

 ous and contemplative minds in all ages : the multiform beauties of Shells, 

 did not escape the observation of Philosophers, in the most brilliant aeras of 

 learning, as appears obvious, from the writings of Aristotle, Pliny, and of 

 iElian, and we may also add of iEthenaus, and of Cicero. " What can be 

 more gratifying," (says Pliny) "than to view nature in all her irregularities, 

 and sporting in her variety of shells ; such a difference of color do they ex- 



