TEREBELLA. 181 



CHAPTER VIII. 



TEREBELLA. 



The preceding subjects, the Sabella alveolar ia and Sabella belgica, 

 conduct us naturally to the Tcrebella. Their habits in so far agree most 

 intimately, that the organs which all possess in a modified form, are ap- 

 plied to the construction of an artificial dwelling, for the shelter and 

 safety of their unprotected bodies. 



All are architects, nor of contemptible skill, as we shall find on con- 

 templating their mechanical labours. 



The instinct of animals being most conspicuously evinced in the 

 pursuit of prey, the care of their young, and the construction of an arti- 

 ficial dwelling, those apparently the readiest to suffer external injury 

 should enjoy this latter faculty in the highest perfection. 



Yet, according to human observation, many of the weakest are 

 neither the best protected, nor have they the greatest facilities for secur- 

 ing themselves from danger. 



The collection, preparation, arrangement, and combination of various 

 materials in framing a safe and permanent habitation unite in a peculiar 

 property, sparingly conferred by Nature on her creatures. If any, seem- 

 ingly more defenceless than the favoured few, be left exposed, by denial 

 of this great prerogative in our eyes, it is for some inscrutable purpose, 

 which we cannot discover, or which, if discovered, we could not appre- 

 ciate. We may not arraign the Omnipotent decree invisibly governing 

 the animated world. All that may be reiterated concentrates in the 



