57 
while the inner layer was composed of numerous laminz of a fibrous 
character, the fibres of each lamina crossing at different angles those 
of the laminze in contact with it; between the two layers was a structure 
of calcareous concretions, chiefly arranged near the centre of the scale. 
Similar arrangements were seen in many scales, though differing 
slightly in the form of the concretions, and in some old and thick 
scales good specimens of the so-called dumb-bell crystals could fre- 
quently be found. 
Scales from different parts of the same fish presented very different 
forms, although the same general character was maintained, except in 
some rare instances, such as Pilchards, in which the ventral line was 
supplied with scales altogether different both in form and character 
from those covering the other parts of the body. On most Fishes 
what was called the “ lateral” line was composed of scales perforated by 
tubes externally large in diameter at the head, and becoming gradually 
smaller until at the junction with the tail they were scarcely to be per- 
ceived. Most of the Cycloid Fishes have a brilliant lustre, derived, 
not from the Scales, but from a layer of pigment and spiculz seen 
through their transparent substance. These spiculze were of constant 
- form—that of a flat oblong prism, with angularends. They were trans- 
parent by transmitted, but had a lustre almost metallic by reflected, 
light. When removed and placed in water for observation under the 
microscope, they were seen to be in constant motion, which was not 
interrupted even for some days after removal. 
The authorities on the subject of scales were “ Williamson,” in 
“the Philosphical Transactions,” “ Yarrell,” “ Owen’s Paleontology,” 
“ Gosse’s Evenings with the Microscope,?’ and Rhymer Jones’ 
“ Animal Kingdom.” For the purpose of illustrations, and by the kind 
assistance of Mr. T. Curties and Mr. Wonfor, he had brought down 
a number of scales, &c. 
After a vote of thanks to Mr. Hennah, and an interesting dis- 
cussion, in which Dr. HALLIFAX, Messrs. HOLLIS, PAYNE, G. SCOTT, 
HENNA, and Wonror took part, the meeting became a conversa- 
zione, when scales illustrative of the paper were exhibited by Messrs. 
R. Glaisyer, T. H. Hennah, Wonfor, and Dr. Tuthill Massy. 
Mr. T. H. HENNAH called attention to the wooden slides exhibited 
at the previous meeting ; they possessed the advantage of not being 
air tight ; they allowed the moisture to pass through the wood, and 
prevented fungus-growth on objects mounted in them, 
Mr. Wonror also called attention to Canada Balsam and damar 
