174 SABELA. 



CHAPTER VII. 



SABELLA AND CONGENERA. 



NATURALISTS divide the Annulosa or Annelides, as they are commonly 

 denominated, into erratic and sedentary. The former, as may be easily 

 concluded, are in the more natural state, having no permanent abode ; 

 the latter occupy a fixed habitation, sometimes of very durable mate- 

 rials and solid construction. They are themselves its constructors, and 







real architects of a very ingenious kind. 



I doubt not that some grounds might be found for systematic dis- 

 tinctions in the quality of the dwelling, as an accessory to the distribu- 

 tion of the lower animals, did not so much uncertainty prevail regarding 

 the temporary or permanent occupation of the dwelling, for it is still ob- 

 scure, whether many which seem erratic, have not such a place of refuge, 

 or whether many of tender frame, do not want it entirely. The delicacy 

 of an animal is no infallible presumption that Nature provides some arti- 

 ficial means for its protection. 



Among the comprehensive tribe of Annelides, are incorporated seve- 

 ral creatures, apparently considered by the thoughtless and inexperienced 

 so utterly insignificant, as to merit no particular notice. Yet such are 

 equally the works of Nature with the largest and highest valued of the 

 animal world, as coming from the hands of Supreme Intelligence. They 

 are endowed often with refined faculties of perception and execution, 

 and, above all, with the consciousness whether a certain service or opera- 

 tion required has been effected. Such instinctive displays cannot be un- 

 deserving of human investigation. 



