THE SOLEN. 91 



drical shape, tapering- at the end, and in form much 

 more like a tongue than a foot. 



It seems, however, to assume different appearances. 

 Thus, when the solen is preparing to form a dwelling 

 in the sand, it takes the form of a shovel, sharp at one 

 end, and ending in a point, by the aid of which, a hole 

 is dug : it then alternately assumes the shape of a hook, 

 and of the spade already mentioned ; one assisting the 

 animal in his descent, the other shovelling out the sand. 

 When he wishes to change his abode, the leg is again 

 employed ; and it then takes the shape of a ball. This 

 ball prevents the creature from slipping back, while the 

 reaction of the muscles throws him forwards. He has 

 also a mantle in front, a curtain before the opening of 

 his cell, which enables him to exclude the rough beating 

 of the tide. 



Supposing these appendages were wanting, the solen 

 would be among the most helpless of creatures ; for he 

 cannot moor himself to a rock, nor run on his feet, nor 

 raise himself from off the ground. But here a full com- 

 pensation is made him, and in each of these provisions 

 the Creator has deviated from the ordinary construction 

 of such creatures, and that with an obvious reference 

 to the peculiar habits of this animal. 



The inhabitants of the coast where the solens are 



