106 



METHOD OF CLEANSING SHELLS. 



iinjible to determine the genera of some shells, 1 

 am sure, especially among the bivalves." 



" Most willingly : but tell me if you know the 

 easiest method of cleaning shells when they be- 

 come soiled, or when you purchase them in the 

 natural state ?'' 



" That is a question I wished to ask." 



" A little warm water and soap will cleanse 

 and render them bright. Some collectors rub 

 Florence oil over their shells, which prevents 

 them from becoming dry. A weak solution of 

 gum-arabic is sometimes applied, in order to 

 produce a polished and bright appearance. 



" Nitric or muriatic acid, diluted, is used to 

 take off the epidermis, or any extraneous matter ; 

 but it must be done carefully, and the shell 

 plunged in water after the acid has been applied. 

 But do not make a practice of polishing ; shells are 

 best in their natural state, generally speaking.'" 



" Thank you, father V said both the young 

 people. 



" You are welcome to any instruction I can 

 give you,'" he replied ; '' and now farewell for 

 to-night." 



