XX INTRODUCTION. 



warm water. This method will generally be sufficient to 

 clean all smooth shells, such as Olives, Cowries, Cones, 

 &c. When dry, brush them with a nail-brush; and if 

 they are not dead shells, they will have a sufficient po- 

 lish. 



Rugged shells generally require a different process from 

 the preceding, though it is prudent to try that method 

 first. But when the shells are covered with adhesions, 

 or the epidermis will not separate from the shell, it is ne- 

 cessary to use acid, which should always be applied by a 

 careful and skilful hand. After the shells have under- 

 gone the foregoing process, and are dry, with a camel's 

 hair pencil apply muriatic acid to the parts which require 

 it, dipping the brush in sand, and using constant friction 

 until the adhesions are removed. After this, cleanse them 

 with warm water, and dip them in alkali, to neutralize the 

 effects of any acid that may remain; then cleanse them a- 

 gain in warm water, and with a foft brush put a weak so- 

 lution of gum-arabic over them. 



