256 INTRODUCTION TO CONCHOLOGY. 



sliell-substance which constitutes the internal layer is thus 

 traversed with fairj-formed and extremely minute tubes^ 

 constituting an irregular net-work, which spreads out in a 

 plane parallel to the surface, at first scantily distributed in 

 the internal nacreous lamina, but becoming abundant in the 

 yellow outer layer. 



We have already observed that the tendon of adhesion 

 secretes tlirough its fibres a series of thin subcalcareous 

 plates ; it is moreover worthy of remark that the soft parts 

 are altered by external circumstances as regards their posi- 

 tion within the shell ; the Anomia consequently avails 

 himself of whatever local benefits are within his reach. 



Anomia are closely allied to the Flacunm; their shells 

 are of the same fibro-laminal composition as those of the 

 Ostracea, and are frequently somewhat distorted. No im- 

 portance is attached to the regularity or irregularity of their 

 valves, on account of their assuming the shape of any sub- 

 stance with which they come in contact. 



" Eyes, and No Eyes,""* was the title of a pretty and in- 

 structive tale which we read in childhood^s days. Our 

 young friends will do well to obtain it for themselves, and 

 to profit by the lesson which it contains. 



Much happiness is derived from seeing tilings as they 



