vl PREFACE. 
of Microscopical Science,’ for January, 1858 ; but that 
many fresh facts, both physical and anatomical, are 
here introduced for the first time. What im this 
treatise I consider to have entirely originated with 
myself, are—Firstly, a process by which carbonate of 
lime can be made to assume a globular form, and the 
explanation of the nature of the process, ‘“ molecu- 
lar coalescence,” by which that form is produced. _ 
Secondly, the explanation of the probable cause of 
crystallization, and the manner in which the rectilmear 
form of crystals is effected. Thirdly, the discovery 
of a process of “molecular disintegration” of the 
globules of carbonate of lime by inverting the me- 
chanical conditions upon which their previous globular 
form had depended. Fourthly, the recognition, im 
animal tissues, of forms of earthy matter analogous 
to those produced artificially. And fifthly, the deduc- 
tion from the above fact, and considerations of the 
dependence of the rounded forms of organized bodies 
on physical and not on vital agencies. Bemg anxious 
to present the results of my experiments and observa- 
tions to the public in as demonstrable a form as 
possible, I have, for the convenience of those who 
wish to repeat and to extend them, given in detail all 
