14 
AT Panama, both fine and common shells 
are in great abundance. Some rare specimens 
have found their way from Vera Cruz, which 
probably came from the Pacific. And we have 
lately received a few rare fresh-water shells 
from the Ohio, which the American naturalists 
are sharply looking after. 
From the West Indies, shells have been 
brought in such abundance, and of so little in- 
terest, that a strong prejudice exists against 
them: but, from a source so productive, it is 
highly probable that some rare shells will be 
discovered, when gentlemen of science in these 
islands shall think conchological researches 
worthy of their attention. The collections re- 
ceived from thence are made by the natives, 
and calculated to please mere novices only.— 
On the coast of Jamaica, the keys, and pali- 
sades, Conchs (Strombus Grandis), Helmets, or 
