MULTIVALVES. 23 
the shells of this elegant genus are usually em- 
bellished. 
In some species the reticulations are so delicate in 
their texture, as to resemble the finest lace ; in others, 
they may be compared to small basket-work; and in 
the P. costata, or ribbed Pholas, the shell is covered 
with regular, elevated, jagged, or scalloped ribs, grace- 
fully disposed—yet, however modified or varying in 
different species, the same consistency is seen in all; 
the same subserviency to an especial use. The shell 
of the Pholas, if constructed in a similar manner to 
that of the Nautilus, Pearl-muscle, or garden Snail, 
would be little adapted to the habits of an animal 
which has frequently to excavate a tunnel through 
hard substances. An ovate or oblong form is con- 
sequently the very best that could be adopted; and, 
moreover, the points with which it is covered and 
adorned, are evidently designed to protect the shell! 
from external injury whilst its inhabitant is thus 
employed. At the same time a beautiful variety 
of tints, evince that minute attention to the finishing 
and decorating of his works which the Deity so con- 
tinually displays. 
Whenever we discover marks of an obvious design, 
we are naturally referred for its cause to an intelligent 
Creator; and this transition of the understanding is 
founded upon universal experience. A Conchologist 
w 
