42 FEBRUARY. 



finger-shaped papillae, set transversely across the back, 

 in about six rows, with the middle line of the back free. 

 Each of these papillae is pellucid, with a central core of 

 the richest crimson, while a very brilliant flush of steel 

 blue is reflected from the surface, and the tip is opaque 

 white. The combination of these hues has a most 

 charming effect. 



You would scarcely suppose such lovely creatures 

 were fierce and carnivorous ; but they are the most 

 determined enemies of the Sea Anemones. This beau- 

 tiful Eolis I have often seen assaulting an Anemone, 

 ferociously tearing away its tentacles, or gnawing great 

 holes in its side, and, when touched, stiffening and 

 erecting all its brilliant papillae, as the porcupine does 

 its quills. 



All these creatures are Mollusca very closely allied 

 to the Cowry and the Trochus which we lately exa- 

 mined, but destitute of a shell. The exposure of the 

 breathing organs is a distinguishing character (these be- 

 ing more commonly, in the order, concealed in a cavity), 

 whence they are called Nudibranchiata, or Naked-gilled 

 Mollusks. 



At this season, wherever we find the animals them- 

 selves, we may with confidence expect to find their 

 spawn. This is deposited in masses, which possess 

 characteristic forms. Thus this roll, which looks as if 



