TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 



Page 



Introduction. Preliminary Remarks on the Tone and Tem- 

 per of modern Science. Introductory Works on Science. 



Aspect of Nomenclature, and its Mutability. - - 1 



CHAP. II. 



The Chameleon. Introductory Remarks. Various Opinions. 



Phenomena of Change, by various Observers. Dif- 

 ferent Deductions. The Temperature of the changing 

 Shades and Spots adduced as a Proof of their Dependence 



on Circulation. Analogical Phenomena. - - - 8 



CHAP. III. 



Ascent of the Spider. Importance of the Minutiae of Crea- 

 tion. Curious Habits of peculiar Spiders. Ascent of 

 the Spider observed. General Remarks connected with 

 it. The Ascent considered an electric Phenomenon. - 26 



CHAP. IV. 



Ascent of the Spider continued. Gossamer the Work of 

 the Spider. Necessity of Descent, &c. Propulsion of 

 Threads. Conjoined Opinion of Mr. Blackwall and Mr. 

 Rennie. The Mechanical Impulse of aerial Currents 

 questionable as to Efficiency. Ascent into the Atmo- 

 sphere ascribed by Mr. Blackwall to the Impulsion of 

 heated Emanations from the Ground. Facts that seem to 

 controvert this Opinion. Former Views reiterated. 

 Beneficent Purpose subserved by their Ascent. - 41 



CHAP. V. 



Sublimity of the Ocean. Its Population. Phosphorescence 

 of the Sea. Experiments with luminous Salt Water. 



