S INTRODUCTION TO CONCHOLOGY. 



Many beautiful configurations are afforded by the mem- 

 branaceous parts of different shells ; that especially which 

 is disclosed in the laminse of the Oyster, Mussel, and Sea- 

 ear, after exposure to the action of diluted nitric acid. 



Such are the materials of which the shelly structures of 

 moUusks are formed, — a combination of small means, and 

 yet productive of exquisite results; of materials, too, for 

 chemistry, touching them with her wand, discovers that 

 neither costly metals, nor bright gems, nor glittering sands, 

 are brought for their construction and adornment ; but simply 

 gluten and calcareous particles, apparently of little worth. 



