232 AMPHITEITE. 



the ribs, while some among them had four. The trowels likewise stretch- 

 ed in a curvature from the neck, as if preparing for their proper func- 

 tions. 



Above fifty days having now intervened from the period of mutila- 

 tion, the body, somewhat reduced of its original dimensions, consisted of 

 thirty or forty segments. Advancing reproduction, enlargement of the 

 parts, their action on the accession of spots on the branchiae, shewed that 

 nothing for the salubrity of the animal was wanting unless a proper posi- 

 tion. In sixty-four days it appeared to be endowed with the essential 

 requisites, for both organic and mechanical faculties, had it occupied a 

 tube. Plate XXX. fig. 11, slightly enlarged. It survived its separation 

 from the original Amphitrite eighty-three days. 



It is truly remarkable that a fragment from the posterior extremity 

 of such a creature as the Amphitrite, should generate a mutitude of 

 organs belonging to the anterior portion, capable of such complex opera- 

 tions. 



It is alike singular, and, at the same time unaccountable, that Na- 

 ture should have denied this animal that alone whereby it may avail 

 itself of this prerogative, the power of constructing any but its original 

 tube. Even when entire, if once dislodged, it is apparently incapable of 

 constructing the smallest portion of another dwelling, or that protection 

 wherein its gifts can be turned to any use. When losing its earliest 

 habitation it survives a considerable time, but always prostrate. Should 

 it remain in the tube, it is secure notwithstanding privation of the plume, 

 and if mutilated, it will regain another to be employed as the first. The 

 regeneration of a plume by a fragment separating below, while confined 

 in the tube, would be nugatory, as, while thus imprisoned, there is no 

 scope for the exercise of its functions. A similar fragment free acquires 

 a plume, but although so far privileged as to become entire, it remains 

 naked and defenceless, equally incapable of sheltering itself by the exer- 

 cise of its natural functions. Of what use, therefore, is this wonderful 

 prerogative ? I am induced to conclude that there is here something un- 

 discovered, some conditions whereby the peril may be averted. The 



