8 Beautiful Shells. 
branes. But all this my readers will learn more 
about from more advanced and scientific works if 
they proceed, as I trust they will do, in the study 
of ConcHoLoey, a science which has in a greater or 
less degree attracted the attention of curicus and 
contemplative minds in all ages, and the study of 
which it has been well said is peculiarly adapted to 
recreate the senses, and insensibly to lead us to the 
contemplation of the glory of God in creation. 
BEAUTY AND VALUE OF SHELLS. 
In shells, as in all the works of the Almighty 
Creator, we may observe an infinite variety of 
form, and if they do not all strike us as alike 
graceful, yet in each, however plain and simple, 
there is some peculiar beauty, whether it be the 
mere hollow cup, or the simple tube, the smooth or 
twisted cone, the slender spire, the convoluted oval, 
or half circle, ribbed or spiked, with a lip curving 
out like the leaf of a water lily, or a narrow rim, 
like that of a golden chalice; they are indeed 
elegant, each perfect of its kind, and bearing the 
impress of a constructive skill far above that of 
man, who copies from them some of the most 
graceful and elegant designs wherewith to ornament 
