SHELL OF THE SNAIL. 201 



MRS. F. 



Yes; the history of this genus is very interesting and in- 

 structive, affording- a striking manifestation of the superin- 

 tending providence of the Almighty. He cares for the 

 peculiar wants of his creatures; and, though all things are at 

 his command, He is not prodigal of means. He gives what 

 is required, and withholds what is needless. Upon the 

 animals who inhabit the rocky shore, He has bestowed a 

 thick substantial covering; but to snails, the greater number 

 of which live on the land, or in stagnant pools, or peaceful 

 streams, He has given a remarkably light shell, which, while 

 it affords ample protection to its inmate, offers no impediment 

 to its locomotive propensities. Can we see the beautiful 

 adaptation to circumstances, the provision for the wants, and 

 consideration for the comfort of His creatures, and not give 

 the praise and adoration to Him, who, riding upon the wings 

 of the winds, regards not only the sons of men, but the, mean- 

 est rep tile that crawls upon the earth?* 



* Mayo, Lessons on Sheila, 



