THE HERMIT SIPONCLE. 29 



cealed. Then again it is unrolled, and so on alternately. 

 Doubtless the function of respiration is performed by 

 this action ; and perhaps also food is collected and 

 swallowed. 



One species of this creature, the Hermit Siponcle, 1 

 common enough with us> is in the habit of appropriating 

 old deserted shells of univalve mollusca, as the peri- 

 winkle, or the pelican's-foot, for its own residence. In 

 this case it builds up a wall of sand- atoms, cemented 

 by a glue of its own secreting, across the shell- aperture, 

 leaving only a small central orifice, through which 

 it may protrude its curious trunk. 



Thus we discern the infinite and inexhaustible re- 

 sources of the Divine Wisdom in contrivances which 

 have for their object the preservation, sustentation, and 

 comfort of worms so obscure and humble as these. 

 Discerning, let us adore ! 



1 Sipunculus Bemhardvs. 



