Description of the Chlamyphorus iruncatus. 246 



with the skeletons of the above-named animals before me, it 

 was not until after I had completely finished every point of 

 observation, that I perceived in the skull alone, of the new 

 animal, a reunion, more or less complete, of all those remark- 

 able traits that an external view of the animal had offered for 

 contemplation ; which, taken collectively, furnishes us with an 

 example of organic structure, if not unparalleled, at least not 

 surpassed in the history of animals. 



The most peculiar and unique characters consist — First, In 

 the general contour of the animal. Second, — In the form, 

 texture, and disposition of its scaly cloak, which would very 

 much confine the power of flexion and extension of the body, 

 and nearly altogether impede lateral motion ; the greatest 

 freedom of motion would consist in the extension of the head 

 on the body. Thirdly, — in the position of the organs of 

 generation. Fourthly, — In the form, structure, position, 

 and use of the tail. Fifthly, — In the peculiar and complicat- 

 ed structure of the feet and claws. Sixthly, — In the structure 

 of the organ of hearing. Seventh, — In the bony protube- 

 rances on the os frontis. Eighth, — In the disposition of the 

 teeth ; and Ninth, — In the form of the lower jaw, which sepa- 

 rates the animal, in this respect, from the order Edentata, 

 and approximates it to the Ruminantia and Pachydermata, 



